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

IAM2410 - Event Planner Helps Create a Great Client Experience with a Touch of Hospitality

Dee McCoy is an event planner who worked with Akia on the design, décor, and aesthetic elements of the conference to make the environment engaging and visually pleasing, especially since it was a gloomy day outside. 

 

Dee’s reasons for attending the event were threefold: to pour back into her business, to reconnect with her own work after focusing on clients' needs, and to introduce her daughter, a young entrepreneur, to the business world with a Christ-centered foundation.

 

She learns that clients often struggle to understand hotel jargon, and her goal became to bridge that gap, ensuring both the hotel’s needs and the client’s vision were aligned for successful events.

 

Dee helps clients execute their vision while ensuring the event meets both aesthetic and logistical requirements, such as negotiating contracts and managing budget expectations.

 

Her business is defined by the idea that “the difference is in the details,” and she takes pride in offering valuable advice and insights, even if it means stepping in to help when needed.

 

Dee highlights the importance of continuous learning and honing your craft. She also discusses that business owners should always learn something that replenishes them as well. 

 

Instagram: mdmassociatesdc 

Facebook: Events by MDM Associates

 

Previous Episode: iam240-event-planner-helps-create-a-great-client-experience-with-a-touch-of-hospitality

 

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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!

IAM2409 - DMV Entrepreneur Specializes in Modern Headshots Photography

Crystale Spearman is the founder of Eye Imagery, a photography business primarily focused on headshots for entrepreneurs and business owners.

 

Crystale organizes a monthly event called “Smize and Socialize” for female entrepreneurs, business owners, and bloggers, where they can network and get free headshots.

 

Crystale discusses Eye Imagery, focusing on her work with headshots, primarily for entrepreneurs and business owners who need professional photos for business cards, websites, and social media.

 

She emphasizes the importance of professional headshots for entrepreneurs, which are different from selfies and require a more thoughtful approach to ensure they look polished and professional.

 

Crystale learns the value of narrowing her niche and building her brand around what she truly loves to do.

 

Website: EYEImagery 

LinkedIn: Crystale Vail Spearman

 

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!

IAM2408 - Franchise Broker Journey: Overcoming Day 36 Sales Slump

Gresham Harkless shares the harsh truth about sales in entrepreneurship – not every conversation will lead to a sale. It's crucial to accept that not every potential client will become a customer, no matter how much effort is put into the process.

 

Gresham discusses how candidates sometimes get cold feet due to the perceived risks, even when they see the opportunity and believe in the business.

 

He reflects on how often sales that seem certain don’t close, while those that seem unlikely can unexpectedly succeed.

 

He also mentions that in franchise sales, it's common to speak with 100 to 150 leads, but only one will convert to a franchisee. 

 

One key takeaway from Gresham’s experience is the importance of moving quickly towards a yes or no answer to avoid wasting time.

 

In addition, he recognizes that sales is a journey that requires patience, perseverance, and sometimes, talking to many people before finding the right fit.

• 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!

IAM2407 - Franchise Success: Embracing Challenges

Gresham Harkless discusses how challenging it can be to stay motivated, even when doing something like working out. He compares this to the challenges faced in business, such as losing clients, broken systems, and missed deals. 

 

He emphasizes the importance of not comparing oneself to others, which can lead to frustration and distraction.

 

Gresham shares a lesson from a coach who identified three types of people: starters, maintainers, and finishers. 

 

Throughout the journey, Gresham mentions how doing the hard, consistent tasks, even when they’re uncomfortable, ultimately pays off and builds the foundation for future success. 

 

Furthermore, he encourages others to stay true to their race and focus on the daily steps that lead to long-term growth and opportunity.

 

• 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!

IAM2406 - Revitalize Your Routine!

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless mentions how impatience can be both a superpower and a downfall for entrepreneurs. Entrepreneurs often want success quickly, but sometimes they give up or pivot too soon before seeing the long-term results.

 

Gresham notes that consistency is significant in business success, particularly in franchising. He refers to people with backgrounds in the military or government often succeeding in franchising due to their ability to execute tasks consistently. 

 

Moreover, Gresham discusses how his journey involves learning about himself, focusing on his strengths, and aligning his actions with his true capabilities. He’s careful not to spread himself too thin but to stay focused on what works for him.

 

• 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!

IAM2405 - Branding Expert Helps Small Businesses Stand Out in the Competitive Market

Dan Craddock is a serial entrepreneur, running Sure Shot Screen Printing, launching a brewery called The Barking Barley, and having a creative agency, Metro Nova Creative.

 

Dan has been in the design and branding world for over 20 years. He’s passionate about making branding accessible to small business owners to help them succeed, believing that their success directly impacts community growth.

 

Dan shares his approach to educating clients about the branding process. He points out that while clients may be tempted to opt for cheap or AI-generated logos, those options lack the strategic insight necessary for long-term business growth.

 

He explains that a logo is more than just a visual mark – it's a tool to create an emotional connection with customers and to ensure that a business stands out in a competitive market.

 

Despite managing multiple businesses, he ensures to maintain a healthy work-life balance, spending time with his family and focusing on self-care, like going to the gym and spending quality time with his kids.

 

Websites:

Metro Nova Creative 

Sure Shot Screen Printing 

The Barking Barley

 

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!

IAM2404 - Wellness Coach Helps People Experience Happiness Every Day through Mindfulness, Movement and Mindset

Chloe Markham is an award-winning wellness coach, yoga teacher, and joyful living coach. She is the founder of The Yoga Revolution and Joy Unplugged, programs designed to promote mindfulness, movement, and mindset to help people experience happiness every day. 

 

Chloe launched a Substack six months ago, where she writes about wellness, joy, and mindfulness, and she encourages others to join her there as it serves as an antidote to social media.

 

She describes herself as a "modern-day classical philosopher," helping clients use yoga and other tools to elevate their daily lives and experience more joy.

 

Chloe believes that the key to success in her business is maintaining a clear perspective on the "why" behind what she does.

 

She advocates for a flexible approach to morning routines—allowing for brevity when needed and letting go of guilt if the routine isn’t followed.

 

Furthermore, Chloe stresses the importance of learning to slow down, tune into one's body, and create the space to self-regulate, as this is key to long-term success and well-being.

 

Website: Chloe Markham 

LinkedIn: Chloe Markham 

Instagram: the.yoga.revolution

 

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!

IAM2403 - Marketing Consultant and Founder Provides Digital Marketing Services to Service-based Business

Ashley Mason founded Dash of Social, a digital marketing consultancy specializing in social media management, SEO, paid ads, and public relations. She focuses on service-based businesses. Outside of work, she enjoys running and reading.

 

Ashley explains how Trello has been a game-changer in her business. Initially a pen-and-paper person, she switched to digital tools for project management and loves the visual, creative aspect of Trello.

 

Ashley emphasizes the importance of networking, particularly through a local Facebook group for women entrepreneurs. Consistently participating in this group, sharing her story, and offering free marketing advice have helped her build relationships and attract clients.

 

Additionally, she recommends starting small with marketing efforts, focusing on one or two platforms at a time instead of trying to do everything at once.

 

Website: Dash of Social 

LinkedIn: Ashley (Mason) DiBiase 

Facebook: Dash of Social 

Instagram: dashofsocial

 

Previous Episode: iam236-marketing-consultant-and-founder-provides-digital-marketing-services-to-service-based-business

 

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!

IAM2402 - Founder and Civil Rights Attorney Focuses on Improving Access to Justice for People of Color

Kisha A. Brown is a passionate civil rights attorney and the founder/CEO of Justis Connection, an online platform designed to connect lawyers of color with communities needing legal resources. 

 

She has extensive experience across the federal, state, local, nonprofit, and private sectors and focuses on civil rights, police reform, and empowerment.

 

Kisha realizes that people often ask for legal referrals, but the process is inefficient, requiring multiple steps and often not connecting people of color with lawyers of color. 

 

Kisha emphasizes that many people, especially from marginalized communities, lack access to legal professionals and knowledge about their rights.

 

Justis Connection helps people find the right lawyer for their specific legal needs, considering factors like language needs, budget, and proximity to public transportation.

 

Kisha connects her work to the legacies of influential Black leaders like Thurgood Marshall, believing that lawyers of color are responsible for serving their communities.

 

In addition, references Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s "The Drum Major Instinct" speech, emphasizing that leadership is about serving others. 

 

Website: Justis Connection 

LinkedIn: Kisha A. Brown, Esq.

 

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!

IAM2401 - Unleashing the Power Within: Running Journey

Gresham Harkless shares that he wasn't always a runner and didn't enjoy it initially, but he started running after the tragic loss of a friend's daughter to cancer. This motivated him to participate in his first long-distance run for the Lynn Marie Foundation.

 

Gresham emphasizes the importance of "running your own race," focusing on personal growth rather than comparing yourself to others. He found peace in this mindset, recognizing that progress comes with consistent practice.

 

Running became a way for Gresham to clear his mind, gain clarity, and avoid emotional, reactionary decisions in moments of uncertainty - it became a time for personal reflection.

 

Gresham recalls how early in his business journey, he didn't prioritize physical fitness and later recognized its importance for overall wellness.

 

Furthermore, Gresham point out how the discipline and self-awareness fostered through running have enriched his approach to both 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!