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

IAM2107 - Founder Leverages Her Skill of Intuition & Understanding to Help People Find Love

In this episode, April Davis, Founder of LUMA – Luxury Matchmaking, realized she needed to take her intuition and understanding of people to the next level. If there was one thing she knew more than anything – how to help people find love.

 

April founded LUMA – Luxury Matchmaking in 2010 and took her background as a Certified Life Coach to help singles in over 22 states find the one they can spend the rest of their lives with.

 

The conversation highlights the importance of continuous learning and recommends using resources like Audible to stay informed and grow as a business owner.

Website: LUMA Luxury Matchmaking

Previous Episode: iam079-founder-leverages-her-skill-of-intuition-understanding-to-help-people-find-love

 

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!

IAM2106 - Business Strategist Helps Entrepreneurs Unlock Business Efficiency

In this episode, we have Amanda Furgiuele, a solo parent, serial business owner, entrepreneur, Amazon best-selling author, and expert in creative problem solving, shares her journey from being a rebellious 20-year-old to becoming an accomplished business strategist.

Amanda discusses her approach to helping businesses identify inefficiencies, her philosophy on entrepreneurship, and the importance of adaptability and understanding one's 'why'.

The conversation delves into Amanda's personal CEO story, her insights on overcoming failure, and her belief in the power of trusting oneself.

This episode is packed with advice for both new and experienced entrepreneurs looking to streamline their operations and achieve their business goals more efficiently.

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!

IAM2105 - CEO and Founder Helps Entrepreneurs Reach Audiences By Getting Them Featured In The Media

In this episode, we have Kayley Hamilton, a two-time Emmy award-winning producer, reporter, and the CEO and founder of Uplevel Agency, a public relations agency focused on turning founders into go-to experts and visible thought leaders in their industries.

The discussion begins with the importance of working with clients who have multidimensional stories that can be leveraged across different media platforms to reach wider audiences.

Kayley shares her transition from interviewing celebrities in Hollywood to working with entrepreneurs and CEOs, driven by her realization during 2020 that impactful stories and businesses exist beyond the entertainment industry.

She provides insights into her methodology for extracting and promoting the unique stories of her clients to secure media opportunities, emphasizing the significance of earned media and visibility.

Kayley also touches upon personal growth, the importance of mentorship, and the value of podcasts in her entrepreneurial journey, concluding with an encouragement for listeners to realize the power of their own stories and the impact of visibility in reaching their audience.

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!

IAM2104 - CEO and Founder Helps Companies Scale their Products and Services through Affiliate Marketing

In this episode, we have Enelin Toneva, CEO and founder of Vivian Agency, an influencer and affiliate marketing agency. In 2018, she launched 40+ affiliate programs, onboarded 8,000 affiliates, and generated over 12 million dollars of revenue for their clients.

 

Enelin traveled to over 40 countries while doing B2B and B2C marketing, and sales for companies from different parts of the world. She discusses her journey with freelance projects and smaller startups and mentions working with SafetyWing, a Y Combinator startup in Silicon Valley.

 

The conversation highlights the importance of equality and empowerment for women in their company with the opportunities and value they provide.

LinkedIn: Enelin Toneva
Website: Vivian Agency

 

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!

IAM2103 - Leadership Coach Helps Sales Leaders Achieve Pro Level Performance by Harnessing their Mental Toughness

In this episode, we have Matt Phillips, leadership coach and host of the Matt Phillips Podcast. He shares his experience as a professional baseball player and how it translates to helping sales leaders develop mental toughness.

 

Matt Phillips discusses his experience in a mastermind group with successful business owners, highlighting that everyone in the room, regardless of their level of success, faces challenges in running their business.

 

The conversation highlights on the importance of not waiting for perfection before launching new products or initiatives and the opportunity to build a team focused on a mission and being the voice of that mission with energy and passion.

Website: Matt Phillips Coaching
Website: High-Performance Leadership
LinkedIn: Matt Phillips

 

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!

IAM2102 - Mindset Strategist Helps Athletic Talents Create a Prosperous Business Venture

In this episode, we have Jay Dixon, a seasoned expert at the dynamic intersection of sports and business. Jay established SuccessCoach.com, an elite accelerator tailored for athletes who've left their playing days behind. 

 

His program combines mindset strategies with practical playbooks to guide athletes in leveraging their skills. Jay is recognized for Business Excellence in Venture Capital in Private Equity from Columbia Business School.

 

In addition, Jay Dixon discusses the importance of checklists, group fitness, and servant leadership in unleashing your potential - leading from the back, practicing humility, and empathy are essential traits for success.

Website: Success Coach
LinkedIn: Jay Dixon

 

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!

IAM2101 - Innovator Creates a Virtual Wellness Platform Helping People to Conquer Health Goals

In this episode, we have Jillian Bridgette Cohen, CEO and co-founder of Virtual Health Partners Incorporated. This results-based virtual wellness platform provides live one-on-one nutrition appointments, fitness classes, and lifestyle modifications by a team wellness specialist.

 

In May 2016, Jillian launched VHP to create an ecosphere of wellness support available anywhere and anytime. With over 15 years of experience in the medical industry, Jillian was responsible for the multi-million dollar growth of three start-up companies with a strong focus on the non-invasive weight loss space. Starting a career at Johnson and Johnson and moving to Novare Surgical, ElectroCore, and Apollo, Jillian specialized in development, implementation, growth, and marketing for new medical procedures.

 

The conversation highlights the importance of creating a fun and inclusive work culture, treating all team members equally, and taking responsibility for stakeholders.

Website: Virtual Health Partners
Website: VPHGO
Linkedin: Jillian Bridgette Cohen

Previous Episode: iam077-innovator-creates-a-virtual-wellness-platform-helping-people-to-conquer-health-goals

 

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!

IAM2100 - The 8 Pillars of Business Success: Lessons from Over 1600 Podcasts

Hello, CBNation Builders!

As we navigate the thrilling yet challenging world of entrepreneurship, there are key lessons and principles that consistently rise to the forefront, shaping the path to success. After doing over 1600 insightful podcasts with industry leaders, innovators, and startup veterans on the I AM CEO Podcast, I've distilled what I believe were 16 themes or that I heard consistently throughout the podcast. I even made a list of 100s of things I've learned that we added to the I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3.  While 16 is my favorite number (see Blue 16 Media), it didn't feel quite complete to have a list of themes.

As, I myself start to go through EOS and the Traction Book and start to look more about business foundations and go back to the business plan and really start to evaluate the core part of business. Looking at CEO Hacks like the Personal MBA even and Harvard Business, Entrepreneur Magazine made me realize the best way is to see further is to “stand on the shoulders of giants.” It's at the heart of why I even started CEO Blog Nation's first site Hearprenur to “Hear from Entrepreneurs.”

So, could I distill these 16 even more? Yes, of course. 

As Steve Jobs said, “That's been one of my mantras—focus and simplicity. Simple can be harder than complex: You have to work hard to get your thinking clean to make it simple. But it's worth it in the end because once you get there, you can move mountains”

I came to 7 which signals completion but even that didn't seem right as I tried to merge “technology” under one of the foundation principles. But as, we've had a monthly theme many times “We are a technology company that does…” It was only right that we changed 7 to 8. While it's more than I expected but think it's accurate. It's half of 16 and if you want to know the symbolism of 8 for fun you can Google it or check it out using Perplexity.

These are the core areas every entrepreneur, particularly those in the crucial first five years (the Builders), should master. My journey would have undoubtedly been smoother had I fully grasped these concepts from the start. Now, I'm eager to pass on this blueprint to you, potentially paving the way for an impactful resources designed to elevate Builders to Architects and eventually, to Mogul status.

The reality is that these are pillars but they're not silos, the people you have in place will ultimately affect you financial projection. While the products and services won't be nearly as impactful if your operations aren't in place. Do you feel as if you have most of the pillars in place but you ignore technology, it can completely disrupt your indudstry and your buisness. Maybe you don't fully understand business or entrepreneurship and you throw in the towel because you reach one road block.

That's the challenge in business. However, if you have the right people in place, it can completely change everything, they can execute on a level that helps support all the other aspects in business. Do you really have great financials, it could help give you more runway than your competitors for mistakes, failures or even disruptions in business.

So as I like to say when you are building a media company, things might be simple, but understand it is by no means easy. Sometimes focusing on 1-2 “ingredients” can have the biggest impact, but you just have to figure out what that “one thing” is at the moment. It will test every aspect of who you are as an individual and leader. And the thing is when it's hard and you have challenges, it doesn't mean you are doing it wrong. As I try to highlight on the podcast, it's actually the norm. As much as you build the buisness, you are also build yourself.

So what are these business pillars:

1. People
2. Operations
3. Strategy
4. Product and Service
5. Financial
6. Visibility
7. Technology
8. Entrepreneurship

As we shift and pivot our sites and resources, you will find more and more content and information “fit” into these pillars to help support you as a Business Builder.

Here's a little more about the 8 Business Pillars and there's lots more to come:

1. People

First and foremost, your team is your greatest asset. The right mix of talent can innovate, execute, and breathe life into your vision. Invest in hiring individuals who not only have the skills but also share your passion and values. Remember, a strong culture leads to sustained success. Also don't forget that you are also the people you have to maintain so don't forget to “fill up your cup.”

2. Operations

Efficient operations are the engine of your business. Streamlining processes, managing resources effectively, and continually improving workflows are crucial. The ability to deliver with consistency and quality underpins your credibility in the market.

3. Strategy

Your roadmap must be clear and agile. A sound strategy involves setting achievable goals, understanding your competition, and adapting to market changes. Regularly revisiting and revising your strategy will keep you aligned with your long-term vision.

4. Product and Service

The heart of what you offer — ensure that your products or services solve real problems and deliver exceptional value. Innovate and evolve as you gather customer feedback and stay ahead of industry trends.

5. Financial

Robust financial management can make or break your venture. Understand your numbers, from cash flow to profit margins. Make informed decisions to fuel growth and ensure sustainability. Remember, financial knowledge empowers you to steer your business with confidence.

6. Visibility

In today’s digital age, how you manage your brand presence is crucial. Effective marketing, advertising and public relations can greatly enhance your reach and reputation. Build a narrative that resonates with your audience and engage them consistently.

7. Technology

Leverage technology to your advantage. From CEO Hacks like productivity tools and CRM systems to e-commerce platforms and data analytics — the right tech stack can drive efficiency, enhance customer experiences, and open new avenues for growth. Also, don't ignore AI and new technological enhancements.

8. Entrepreneurship & Business

Last but certainly not least, embody the spirit of entrepreneurship and business. Resilience, innovation, leadership, and a willingness to take calculated risks are the hallmarks of a successful entrepreneur. Stay curious, embrace challenges, and be persistent.

As a community of driven and innovative builders, our potential to prosper is boundless, particularly when we support one another and learn together. This distilled wisdom from years of conversations with business leaders could soon evolve into a structured course and other offerings. This educational journey would aim not only to deepen your understanding of these pillars but also to facilitate your transition from working IN your business to working ON your business — moving from a Builder to an Architect and eventually, to a Mogul who shapes the world.

Stay tuned, and let’s continue to build not just businesses, but legacies.

Together, we grow stronger and more resilient. Remember, every challenge is an opportunity, and every misstep a lesson. Let’s harness our collective experiences to build a community of successful, impactful leaders driving change across the globe.

What do you think? Did we miss anything are there any other pillars that we should add or subtract?

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!

IAM2099 - Founder and Business Coach Helps Businesses Hire Great and Talented People

In this episode, we have Craig Goodliffe, a respected entrepreneur, leadership expert, business coach, and a cool dad.

 

He shares his experience of connecting with talented individuals in the Philippines leading to the creation of Cyberbacker. Craig talks through challenges in hiring and retaining talent and unique strategies like profit share programs.

 

The conversation emphasizes the importance of giving back to the community and helping other entrepreneurs grow and the positive outcome of having an abundance mindset and being part of a supportive community.

Website: Cyberbacker
LinkedIn: Craig Goodliffe

 

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!

IAM2098 - Brand Messaging Strategist Helps Businesses and Brands Distill Their Complex Work Into Stories

In this episode, we Ryan Holck, a speaker, author, marketer, and brand messaging strategist. Ryan is the creator of the Distill Your Story framework that guides brands to tell their story clearly so that they are memorable and referable.

 

He mentions the tension in nonprofits between having many stories to tell but not always focusing attention well.

 

The conversation highlights the importance of focusing on the outcomes provided by a business rather than just the tasks performed.

Website: Distill Your Story
Facebook: Ryan Holck
LinkedIn: Ryan Holck

 

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!