832: ACTION SATURDAY (setup Google Alerts!)

Ever wonder how massive companies manage to shift gears and innovate like nimble startups? Danny Nathan, the growth maestro with a storied 20-year career, sits down with us to unravel the secrets of scaling and innovation that have been the hallmark of his journey through the realms of product and technology. With a history that spans the early days of advertising to the launch of Apollo 21, Danny's unique perspective bridges the gap between the scrappy startups and the powerhouses of industry such as American Express and Dyson, offering a practical masterclass on steering the corporate behemoths towards groundbreaking success.As the conversation unfolds, Danny unveils the art of cultivating innovation within the colossal structures of large organizations. He emphasizes the indispensable role of leadership in championing new projects and creating a fertile ground where ideas can thrive. It's a testament to the importance of commitment and embracing the learning curve of failures—after all, each misstep is a stepping stone towards the next big breakthrough. Danny's engaging discourse is a treasure trove for those seeking to inject a spirit of exploration and experimentation into their business culture.To top it all off, we probe into the transformative influence of technology in the corporate landscape, where Danny accentuates the necessity of strategy and a profound comprehension of the issues at hand. Apollo 21's Mission Control becomes the centerpiece of this narrative, as we illustrate how custom tech solutions can catapult businesses into newfound efficiencies, whether it's managing customer relations or the most unexpected of events—rodeos included. This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs and seasoned business professionals alike, packed with insights that spotlight the monumental impact of technology and visionary thinking on business evolution.ABOUT DANNYAfter 20 years of product and technology experience, Danny Nathan has developed a habit of helping companies create new products & services and launch new ventures. In the past, he’s been called a product person, a UX guy, a designer, a strategist, a marketer, a creative (and a few other choice names like “The Cleaner”).Danny has led product build and launch efforts at an international scale, run countless design sprints, and founded multiple companies. He’s applied his expertise to a variety of companies ranging from pre-seed startups to Fortune 100 corporations, including: American Express, Dyson, General Mills, the MoMA, Getty Images, Legendary Pictures, and many more.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Apollo 21’s WebsiteFollow Apollo 21 on LinkedInConnect with Danny on LinkedIn

Unlock the secrets of successful digital marketing with Jared Schweers of Key Element Media as we dissect what truly powers the engine of online business growth. From his early days as a computer enthusiast to becoming an expert in the digital marketing world, Jared's story is a testament to leveraging passion into expertise. Our engaging conversation covers more than just the mechanics of SEO; it's a deeper look into how effective branding and customized strategies can be the difference-makers for local businesses.Today's digital landscape demands an understanding of the nuanced elements that bolster a brand’s online footprint, and in this episode, we share the strategies you'll need to enhance your own. We stress the vital role of crafting impactful titles and meta descriptions and delve into why rich website content is paramount for customer engagement. By breaking down the process of establishing a user-friendly website architecture, we reveal how a strong foundation can support diverse and sustainable marketing efforts, emphasizing the need for a long-term SEO strategy over the allure of quick wins through paid advertisements.Finally, for small business owners wrestling with the complexities of marketing on their own, this episode is packed with practical guidance. Learn how to initiate marketing efforts by committing to regular updates and the importance of tracking these efforts to understand your lead sources. I share my personal strategies for juggling the demands of business with the necessity of growth-focused activities, ensuring a balanced approach to marketing and networking. So, whether you're a startup entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this is a conversation filled with insights that promise to elevate your approach to digital marketing.ABOUT JAREDJared is the owner and driving force behind Key Element Media, a premier web and digital marketing firm headquartered in Rockwall, Texas. With a specialization in web design, organic search, Google Profile Rankings, Paid Search, and apparel, the company boasts an impressive portfolio, catering to businesses of all scales—ranging from national giants to hyper-local enterprises. Key Element Media continues to grow year after year, serving more clients and completing larger projects. With a rich career spanning over eighteen years in digital marketing, Jared's expertise is grounded in a solid foundation, backed by a degree in Communication Technology. Beyond Key Element Media, Jared extends his entrepreneurial prowess as the co-owner of Rockhopper Designs & Apparel, Rockwall's go-to screen printing and apparel brand. His leadership and commitment to his community have earned him notable accolades. In 2019, Jared was honored as the Ambassador of the Year by the Rockwall Chamber. He's also an esteemed Leadership Rockwall Class of 2020 alumnus. His company, Key Element Media, received the title of Small Business Partner of the Year from the Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce in 2016, and the firm's alliance with the Chamber remains active. In addition to Chamber activities, Jared is an active member of the Rockwall Noon Rotary Club and holds influential positions on various local boards.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Key Element Media’s WebsiteFollow Key Element Media on InstagramConnect with Jared on LinkedIn 

In today's episode we'll talk about the concept of permanence vs. impermanence when it comes to our ideas, our businesses, and even our identities. Most importantly, we'll explore the freeing benefits of accepting that all things pass, giving us room to explore, to experiment, and to grow, knowing that not only are we not married to our fleeting thoughts and ideas, but we're also not defined by the outcomes we experience along the way.

Unlock the transformative power of entrepreneurship AND education with our special guest from Episode 841, Chase Eskelsen, the visionary behind Fersken Education. In this Action Saturday episode, you'll hear Chase's call to action on how your business can be a catalyst for change while simultaneously benefiting from the fresh energy and innovative minds of college interns. Chase, with his rich experience in scaling educational initiatives, shares his personal success story, illuminating how internships can be a mutually beneficial solution, giving students practical experience and businesses access to top talent without breaking the bank.ABOUT CHASEChase Eskelsen M.Ed. spent over a decade in various education positions. He started his education career as an administrator focused on strong operational metrics and scaling full-time, online schools (both charter and district). Upon leaving the school management position he supported nationwide EdTech company with one foot in the academic policy world and the other in government affairs supporting digital educational options. He then served as the Chief Operating Officer of an education nonprofit where he oversaw launching new hybrid schools and supporting the acquisition of educational opportunities until he started Fersken Education in late 2021. FerskenED is a one-stop education consulting firm supporting schools and businesses and edupreneurs through the FerskenED Mastermind.LINKS & RESOURCES Visit Fersken Education’s Website Connect with Chase on LinkedIn

Embark on a journey of transformation with the edupreneurial insights of Chase Eskelsen, who joins us to map out the vibrant terrain of digital and in-person learning integration. Chase's unique strategy has carved out a new niche in education, which he dives into with passion, discussing his progression from online school management to a nonprofit COO and consultant.In today's conversation Chase unravels the complexities of the educational system, stressing the importance for educators and policymakers to effectively translate data and policies into actions that resonate with diverse audiences.Plus, you'll hear Chase's candid narrative of the entrepreneurial voyage, resonating with the universal themes of sacrifice, resilience, and unwavering family support. His story is a testament to the power of strategic planning and networking, which have been instrumental in nurturing his consulting firm and supporting the growth of fellow education entrepreneurs. Together, we celebrate the mastermind business model for creating communities that share wisdom and catalyze opportunities, reinforcing that with a robust foundation and network, entrepreneurs can indeed convert their bold visions into impactful realities.ABOUT CHASE Chase Eskelsen M.Ed. spent over a decade in various education positions. He started his education career as an administrator focused on strong operational metrics and scaling full-time, online schools (both charter and district). Upon leaving the school management position he supported nationwide EdTech company with one foot in the academic policy world and the other in government affairs supporting digital educational options. He then served as the Chief Operating Officer of an education nonprofit where he oversaw launching new hybrid schools and supporting the acquisition of educational opportunities until he started Fersken Education in late 2021. FerskenED is a one-stop education consulting firm supporting schools and businesses and edupreneurs through the FerskenED Mastermind. LINKS & RESOURCES Visit Fersken Education’s Website Connect with Chase on LinkedIn

Redefine your workday with the infectious enthusiasm of Pete Kusiak, today's special guest and business fun maestro. In our conversation today, Pete walks us through his evolution from a children's fitness franchise manager to a sought-after author and consultant. He unveils the secrets behind transforming a business environment into a powerhouse of joy and why this strategy isn't just about laughs—it's about serious revenue boosts and motivated employees, capable of weathering economic challenges with smiles on their faces.Forge stronger connections within your teams, whether they're down the hall or across the globe, under the guidance of Pete's innovative techniques. Drawing from the collective nostalgia of card games and the universal language of food, we discuss uniting teams through shared experiences that bridge cultural divides. Remote work doesn't mean distant teams; we share imaginative ways to use technology for creating camaraderie and enhancing the personal touch in the digital workspace—complete with virtual coffee breaks and a mug of the real stuff to kickstart those morning meetings.Wrapping up with a peek into Pete Kusiak's new book, this episode paints a vivid picture of a workplace where laughter is the soundtrack and positivity is palpable—from enthusiastic customer greetings to the energetic buzz that permeates every corner. We shine a spotlight on how the likes of Cirque du Soleil have masterfully integrated entertainment into their business model, turning mundane moments into captivating experiences. ABOUT PETE Pete Kusiak is a franchise guru who knows how to bring the fun into business! With a track record of success owning and coaching franchises for over 20 years, Pete's innovative strategies have transformed businesses, boosting revenue and workplace happiness. His passion lies in creating organizations that are not only exciting but also irresistible! By using his Fun First Strategy, Pete motivates teams, improves company culture, and drives sales and operations to new heights LINKS & RESOURCES Visit The Fun First Strategy’s Website Get a copy of ‘Drop The F-Bomb in Your Business’ Connect with Pete on LinkedIn

Join us for an insightful episode as we sit down with Nick Jones, whose entrepreneurial spirit is as diverse as his background. He's navigated the challenging terrain of startups like Uber and Lime, danced through UN climate negotiations, and, with a leap of faith, launched his own venture, Eat Sleep Launch Repeat. Through our candid conversation, Nick peels back the layers of his transition from a potential law student to a startup sensation, sharing the trials and tribulations of kicking off a new business just as the world grappled with a global pandemic.The fabric of a startup's journey is woven with tales of growth, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of validation in a mercurial market. Nick brings this narrative to life, recounting how he took an idea from the ether and anchored it in the needs of a demanding consumer base. We explore the landscape of forging a brand amidst crisis, gathering a tribe of committed team members, and the delicate art of scaling a business without losing the entrepreneurial essence that sparked its inception. Nick's stories and strategies resonate whether you're building a tech empire or a community-focused project, revealing the dual task of crafting a standout product while meticulously crafting the machine that delivers it.As we crest the final hill of our trek with Nick, he invites us into his world of transformation, where experiencing the 'startup consciousness' becomes a conduit for personal enlightenment. Unpacking tales of deep introspection from Burning Man to the serene retreats of Costa Rica, we learn how Nick's own journey has inspired him to inspire others, fostering a space for leaders to unlock their hidden potential. With authenticity and mindset at the core of our discussion, Nick's experiences underscore the importance of keeping an open heart and mind, guiding us towards the light of greater possibilities for all facets of our lives. Join us in this episode, and be prepared to have your perceptions beautifully altered.ABOUT NICK Nick Jones has had a career spanning early Uber and Lime expansion, UN climate negotiations, and starting multiple companies including Eat Sleep Launch Repeat, a startup expansion agency. Five years ago he attended his first Burning Man event and quickly found ways to get more involved becoming a volunteer Ranger, setting him on a path that would lead to him co-founding a retreat center in Costa Rica where leaders can experience transformational change. Nick has now added one on one coaching and retreats to the list of services he provides companies and leaders. LINKS & RESOURCES  Visit Eat Sleep Launch Repeat’s Website  Visit Startup Consciousness’ Website Follow Nick on Instagram Connect with Nick on LinkedIn

Discover the unexpected yet proven link between quantity and quality in entrepreneurship, a revelation that could redefine your approach to mastering new skills. As we venture through this Solo Sunday episode, I share how my dedication to 'output' over the past year aligns with the wisdom of James Clear's "Atomic Habits" and a pivotal study by photography professor Jerry Uelsmann. This episode isn't just about my journey; it's an exploration of how creating work in large volumes can lead to refinement and excellence, challenging the idea that hoarding knowledge is the key to success.

Unlock the secrets to powerful leadership as we bring Erik Berglund back into the spotlight, whose previous insights in Episode 834 left us all buzzing for more. This Action Saturday, we're cutting through the fluff and diving straight into the heart of what makes a leader not just good, but great. Erik, the mastermind behind the Language of Leadership, returns with a no-nonsense approach to enhancing your team's productivity and accountability.Prepare to revolutionize your leadership style with Erik's three C's — clarity, confirmation, and commitment — distilled into a "hack version" for immediate impact. He's handing over the five essential steps that will not only set your team up for success but also transform the way you assign tasks and monitor progress. From the significance of calendar scheduling to aligning tasks with peak energy times, Eric's practical advice promises a leadership metamorphosis. If you're ready to step up your game and lead a team that's not just busy, but bustling with productivity, this episode is the key to unlocking that potential.ABOUT ERIKErik Berglund is the Founder of The Language of Leadership, a system he created over nearly a decade of leading sales professionals. Erik grew frustrated with his own inability to hold people accountable, only to realize nearly everyone felt the same way. He spent 3 years developing the program with his team, and then began coaching managers through it in 2020. Erik is passionate about empowering leaders to be more effective with the team they already have, helping them enjoy their jobs more and get their time back.He lives in Bend, Oregon with his wife and two daughters - they love to ski, rock climb, camp, and adventure together as a family.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit The Language of Leadership’s WebsiteGet the Free eBook: ‘The Big 4 Excuses and How to Handle Them’Check Out Erik’s CourseConnect with Erik on LinkedIn

Discover the magic behind the curtains of interior design with the power couple Hans and Kateryna Wolf from Wolfdens Interior Design Services. Their story is a fascinating tale of creativity meets practicality, detailing their transatlantic journey from Europe to the heart of American homes. This episode peels back the layers of their design philosophy, revealing how they craft spaces that go beyond mere aesthetics to actually elevate life's daily rituals. With their blend of Kateryna's artistic flair and Hans's project management prowess, each project becomes a symphony of personal expression and precise execution.As we sit down with the Wolfs, we unearth the intricacies of their transformative design process, which marries cultural aesthetics with educational insights. They passionately discuss the significance of 3D renderings and virtual walkthroughs that give life to their clients' dreams before a single paint swatch is ever matched. It's not just about the color of the walls or the fabric on the sofa; it's about carving out a niche for individuality in an ever-evolving world of trends. The couple's dedication to nurturing lasting relationships with clients shines through as they articulate the importance of understanding and adapting to clients' changing desires over time.Wrapping up our journey into the realm of interior design, Kateryna shares her vision for the future of their enterprise, embracing cutting-edge technology to redefine the design experience. They delve into the intricacies of integrating modern tech into living spaces, not just for the sake of having gadgets, but to truly enhance the way we live. Tune in and let the Wolfs inspire you to see your living space as a canvas for personal storytelling and innovation.ABOUT KAT & HANSKat Wolf is co-founder and owner of Wolfdens Interior design services, but she’s also really the inspiration for this business. With a passion for creativity, individuality, and a deep understanding of design principles, she leads with vision and professional design skills that create bespoke results. From initial consultation to final touches, Kat will guide you through every step to ensure your vision shines through.Hans Wolf is co-founder and owner of Wolfdens Interior Design Services. As project manager, Hans is focused on delivering sound, on plan, on budget engagements; using skills honed over 14 years of effective delivery. He stays engaged with you at every step of the project keeping you in the know about each step and each aspect of the timeline.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit the Wolfdens WebsiteConnect with Hans on LinkedInConnect with Kat on LinkedIn