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

IAM2428 - Unlocking the Power of Virtual Assistants

Gresham Harkless delves into the importance of leveraging Virtual Assistants, especially in businesses like franchise brokerage or digital marketing.

 

He highlights how VAs can help amplify productivity by taking over tasks that otherwise consume valuable time, allowing business owners to focus on higher-priority activities.

 

Gresham shares that he’s moving toward co-brokering deals instead of trying to control every part of the process.

 

Moreover, he advocates hiring a VA as soon as possible, even if it's just for a few hours a week, to gain experience in managing remote workers. This experience is invaluable for understanding how to oversee tasks and communicate effectively with people working remotely.

 

Gresham explains how his VA Leona helps manage the CRM system by taking calls and following up on leads, so he can focus on generating new opportunities. 

 

He reiterates the value of delegating office tasks to free up more time for growth-driving activities, such as lead generation or working with potential candidates.

• 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!

IAM2427 - Turning Challenges Into Triumph

Gresham Harkless discusses how business is about finding opportunities and doing things differently, even if it means going against the grain. 

 

He believes innovation in business doesn’t always mean creating entirely new technologies but can also involve approaching things in unique ways, especially in execution. 

 

Gresham shares the emotional toll of losing his dog and his grandmother to cancer. This experience has deeply impacted him and shaped how he thinks about his work.

 

Gresham is dedicated to honoring their memory by naming his business or initiatives "Blue Star" and plans to donate a portion of his earnings to cancer research and treatments for both humans and animals.

 

Likewise, Gresham shares a personal story of feeling this way but reminds himself (and others) to embrace authenticity. He emphasizes the importance of being true to yourself and not conforming to what others expect or think you should be.

• 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!

IAM2426 - Founder Focuses on Helping Homeowners and Businesses Recover from Disasters

Idan Shpizear is the founder and CEO of 911 Restoration, a top disaster restoration company in the U.S. He started with little—just an $800 Volvo and a carpet cleaning business—and built it into a national franchise.

 

911 Restoration focuses on helping homeowners and businesses recover from disasters, emphasizing a "fresh start" philosophy.

 

Idan also founded Milestone SEO and Gazingle, a CRM platform for improving business operations. His approach is centered around innovation, mentorship, and problem-solving.

 

Idan believes that the key to success is adding value consistently, not just in terms of service but also by fostering strong relationships with clients and team members.

 

He emphasizes the importance of aligning the entire team with the company’s vision, and that true leadership comes from helping others discover the leader within themselves, which he considers a "blessing."

 

Website: 911 Restoration 

LinkedIn: Idan Shpizear

 

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!

IAM2425 - Founder and Eco-Warrior Creates Sustainable and Chlorine-Free Period Products

Susie Hewson established Natracare, a brand that manufactures organic and environmentally-conscious period care products. 

 

Susie is recognized for her environmental activism and has been awarded numerous accolades, including an MBE from King Charles III for her work in women's health and the environment.

 

In the late '80s, Susie was motivated by the harmful chemicals used in conventional period care products. 

 

Her company’s mission was to create products that were free from chlorine bleach, plastic, and other toxic materials, focusing instead on biodegradable and eco-friendly solutions.

 

Susie highlights the importance of community connection, noting how COVID-19 reminded people of the importance of human interaction.

 

Susie emphasizes that the success of her business is grounded in values and ethics. Her leadership is focused on creating a business environment where people are aligned with the company’s mission and feel empowered to contribute to its success.

 

Website: Natracare 

LinkedIn: Susie Hewson

 

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!

IAM2424 - Health Insurance Agent and Podcaster Helps Families and Businesses with Financial Protection

Lorena Tomasini owns MALM Life and Health Insurance Agency in Miami, Florida. With over 12 years of experience in the insurance industry, she helps families and business owners with financial protection. 

 

Lorena also hosts the "12-Minute Podcast," where she speaks with entrepreneurs about problem-solving.

 

Lorena highlights that many people are unprepared for catastrophic events like health issues or death, which can be devastating both personally and financially.

 

She explains that financial protection, like the products they offer, can help individuals and families avoid going into debt or relying on crowdfunding in times of crisis.

 

Lorena shares a key takeaway from attending the 10X conference, which was about focusing on daily activities rather than outcomes.

 

She emphasizes that building trust and relationships with clients takes time, and follow-up is crucial. 

 

Moreover, Lorena points out the importance of maintaining a solutions-focused mindset rather than complaining when challenges arise.

 

LinkedIn: Lorena Tomasini 

Facebook: MALM Life and Health Insurance Agency 

Instagram: malmins22

 

Previous Episode: iam251-health-insurance-agent-and-podcaster-helps-families-and-businesses-with-financial-protection

 

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!

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

 

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!

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!