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

IAM2471 - The Rollercoaster Ride of a Franchise Broker's Journey

On day 154 of his franchise broker journey, Gresham Harkless reflects on the emotional and strategic challenges of building momentum without having closed a traditional deal.

 

While others in his cohort have closed deals—mostly through personal connections—he’s navigating the harder road of building a system that doesn’t rely on warm leads.

 

Gresham acknowledges the temptation to press clients when deals lag, especially with long lead times, like one prospect who keeps pushing meetings back months at a time—but he consciously focuses on planting seeds and celebrating small wins.

 

Gresham recognizes lead quality as the biggest challenge and is shifting his strategy toward more targeted outreach, including cold emailing, LinkedIn messaging, and Google Ads aimed at experienced franchise owners.

 

He also sees potential in reconnecting with candidates who didn’t complete the process with other brokers, viewing partnerships and strategic collaborations as a smart path to create new opportunities.

• 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!

IAM2470 - Mastering Decision-Making: From Fear to Action

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless shares a transparent and introspective update on his franchise broker journey, now over 150 days in, noting the emotional weight of not yet closing a deal.

 

He expresses a mix of hope and frustration, acknowledging his strengths in lead generation but recognizing a gap in nurturing leads through the lengthy sales cycle. 

 

Gresham identifies a key mistake in not qualifying candidates financially early enough, realizing that without proper funding, even motivated prospects can’t move forward.

 

In addition, Gresham is confronting the emotional fatigue of ghosted candidates and unclear financing paths, and he’s beginning to see that focusing on mindset, money, and motivation, especially securing the financial piece, is crucial before advancing candidates too far.

• 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!

IAM2469 - Overcome the Feeling of Being Behind

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless offers a thoughtful and vulnerable update on the emotional and practical challenges he's facing. 

 

He reflects on the frustration of feeling like he should be further ahead, despite putting in consistent effort, and how that mindset can cloud the real progress being made.

 

Gresham emphasizes the importance of the three core elements in the franchise process—mindset, money, and motivation— in evaluating candidates and maintaining his momentum.

 

He shares examples of how deals have stalled or fallen through due to candidates lacking one of these elements, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the 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!

IAM2468 - Embracing a Fresh Mindset: Day 151

On day 151 of the Franchise Broker journey, Gresham Harkless kicks off the second day of a new 12-week year, using it as a chance to step back and re-evaluate his systems, especially around lead generation. 

 

Gresham emphasizes that most of his successful connections reaching the "Zore" stage came organically through Facebook outreach, highlighting the strategic value of personalized direct messaging.

 

In contrast, leads from Google Ads have been less fruitful, producing a few quality leads but mostly low-quality ones, prompting a need to refine that channel.

 

He also sees potential in LinkedIn but hasn’t tapped into it effectively yet. 

 

Moving forward, he's focused on building a lead-gen system starting with a newsletter where people can opt into what they’re looking for.

 

• 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!

IAM2467 - Sales Strategist Helps Business Owners Attract Ideal Buyers and Close Sales Confidently

Justine Beauregard is a seasoned sales strategist and People Over Profit podcast host.

 

Justine’s entrepreneurial spark began at just 6 years old, and her passion evolved into a career focused on helping business owners grow their income in authentic, feel-good ways. 

 

She shares the powerful story of leaving her corporate job after becoming a mom, navigating early struggles in business, and landing a breakthrough $3,000 client through her talent in cold calling.

 

Justine introduces her Close Sales on Repeat program, which teaches business owners how to attract ideal buyers, close sales confidently, and build systems for sustainable growth. 

 

She encourages entrepreneurs to discover their “zone of genius”—that unique space where passion and talent meet.

 

Website: Justine Beauregard 

LinkedIn: Justine Beauregard

 

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!

IAM2466 - Business Consultant Focuses on Leading Companies in Incorporating Sustainability

Kevin Wilhelm, CEO of Sustainable Business Consulting, shares his journey from being a “reluctant entrepreneur” to one of the leading voices in sustainability consulting.

 

Kevin started his firm after realizing that no one was effectively making the business case for sustainability, and he stepped up to fill that gap. 

 

His firm helps companies integrate sustainable practices by showing how they align with core business goals, like improving efficiency, saving money, and enhancing employee engagement.

 

Kevin emphasizes the importance of trust and customization in his consulting work, often advising clients to scale back or shift focus if it better serves their long-term success, even at the cost of short-term revenue. 

 

He believes in translating sustainability into practical terms for every department and helping organizations realize they’re often already making progress. 

 

Website: Sustainable Business Consulting 

LinkedIn: Kevin Wilhelm

 

Previous Episode: iam280-business-consultant-focus-on-leading-companies-in-incorporating-sustainability

 

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!

IAM2465 - Founder Helps Clients Gain Exposure in Mainstream Media

Justin Breen is the founder and CEO of BrEpic, a PR firm specializing in crafting compelling, newsworthy stories for clients and pitching them to media nationwide. 

 

Justin explains that his business was born out of frustration with traditional PR methods that he found ineffective during his 20-year journalism career.

 

Justin highlights the importance of building genuine relationships with media contacts and only pitching stories that are newsworthy and relevant. 

 

He emphasizes that his success comes from doing what he loves—writing and pitching—and from being highly selective with clients.

 

Justin also shares his insights on balancing entrepreneurship with family life, the importance of long-term networking through groups like ProVisors, and the lessons he learned from books like Traction and The E-Myth.

 

Website: The Epic F.I.T. Network 

LinkedIn: Justin Breen

 

Previous Episode: iam278-founder-helps-clients-gain-exposure-in-mainstream-media

 

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!

IAM2464 - Unleash Your Potential with the 12 Week Year

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless reflects on personal and professional growth as he kicks off a fresh 12-week year, marking day 64 of his overall franchise broker journey.

 

Gresham set three focused goals: adding $5K in recurring revenue (mainly through CEO Hacks), generating 300 new leads for Blue Star Franchise, and completing a year-long Bible reading plan.

 

Gresham emphasizes the importance of lead measures—daily, controllable actions that drive results over time, particularly for building a sustainable lead generation system for Blue Star.

 

Amid personal losses from the previous year and the joys of new fatherhood, he’s using this season as a reset—to plant seeds, instill strong habits, and build his business "brick by brick," with both resilience and long-term vision.

 

• 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!

IAM2463 - Embracing the 63rd Day with Baby Gresh

On Day 63 of the Franchise Broker journey, Gresham Harkless shares a candid update about recent life changes and their impact on his focus and priorities. With the arrival of his new son, he's been adapting to a new routine, which has brought both challenges and clarity.

 

Gresham highlights how having less time has helped him become more intentional and focused, a concept aligned with the principles of the 12 Week Year, which he’s actively implementing. 

 

Gresham discusses the value of "disruptions," both internal and external, as opportunities for growth and resilience.

 

He’s refining his 12-week goals, possibly reducing them from three to two, as one health-related goal may not be realistic given his current sleep schedule.

 

Furthermore, Gresham expresses gratitude for his supportive family and the progress in his business, maintaining excitement and optimism about what’s to come.

• 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!

IAM2462 - Franchise Broker Journey - Consistency is the Key

On Day 59, Gresham Harkless explores how chasing perfection can stop people from getting started.

 

Gresham explains that high-quality work doesn’t come instantly—it’s built over time through consistent practice and action.

 

He challenges the habit of merely checking off tasks, urging a focus on impactful activities that align with core KPIs and business goals.

 

Gresham highlights the importance of leadership in creating clarity, aligning team efforts, and harnessing individual talents to drive collective success.

 

He also reflects on the unique power of franchising, where success is easier to define and model thanks to proven systems.

 

Looking ahead, Gresham shares plans for 2025 that include doubling down on Blue Star Franchise, CB Nation, and CEO Hacks, and aims to create more impact through clearer strategy and stronger execution.

• 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!