930: How AI can TRANSFORM your business and AUGMENT your operations for faster growth w/ Avi Hacker

What if the most powerful leader in your life isn't sitting in the Oval Office, but staring back at you in the mirror? Join our host, Brian Lofrumento, as we challenge conventional notions of leadership amidst the backdrop of recent political events. By asserting that you are the most significant president of your own life, we'll explore how personal empowerment and self-leadership far outweigh the influence of any political figure. Together, we'll dissect themes of freedom, safety, health, wellness, and prosperity, and uncover how these elements can transform your future more than any election result.As the new year approaches, it's time to reconsider who truly amplifies your voice and ability to effect change. Through this Solo Sunday episode, we'll highlight the power of personal choices and the profound impact they can have on your happiness, success, and relationships. With entrepreneurship as a key avenue for innovation, we'll discuss how taking charge of your future can lead to meaningful personal and professional growth. You're invited to step into your leadership role—not just for yourself, but for your community—and embrace the responsibility of shaping your own path as the true commander-in-chief of your destiny.

What if you could turn the holiday season into your most profitable time of the year? Get ready to harness the festive buying spirit as our host, Brian Lofrumento, reveals a strategic roadmap to elevate your business during the bustling holiday period. This Action Saturday episode offers powerful strategies to draw in holiday shoppers and boost year-end sales, whether your offerings are perfect gift items or essential B2B services. Brian encourages you to rethink how your products or services fit into the holiday mold, suggesting creative tactics like introducing gift cards or pitching your services as must-have year-end investments.Listen as Brian shares actionable insights and the transformative power of AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, or Google Gemini to craft a compelling holiday marketing plan with ease. The key is to not only brainstorm and strategize but to execute your promotional schedule efficiently in the weeks ahead. By aligning with the holiday frenzy, you can significantly enhance your business’s visibility and revenue. Don’t miss your chance to position your business for success as we look ahead to 2025, and learn how to ride the holiday wave effectively with Brian's guidance.

Ready to transform your business operations and scale effectively? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Kat Oldershaw, the brains behind kat&co, a consultancy dedicated to optimizing operations for creative businesses. Kat's fascinating journey from a psychology student at UC Berkeley to an operations guru in the design industry provides invaluable lessons on the importance of streamlined processes. You'll learn how tailored systems not only enhance efficiency and team satisfaction but also support your overarching business goals.Finding the balance between rigidity and flexibility in workflows is crucial for any business, and Kat shares insightful strategies to help you navigate this delicate tightrope. We'll reveal how strategic thinking can trump instant gratification, allowing for better client selection and long-term success. From personal anecdotes to professional advice, discover the tools and tactics that Kat uses, including her go-to Google Suite, to maintain order and clarity in her operations. Plus, we delve into the often overlooked but crucial role of intuition in making sound business decisions.Building a business is an iterative process, and Kat's story brilliantly illustrates this. Learn how to manage evolving websites, offer service packages that don't overwhelm your clients, and address common pain points for clients. Kat's expertise shines as she discusses inefficiencies in systems and the challenges of scaling a team. Tune in for a treasure trove of insights from Kat's entrepreneurial journey!ABOUT KATKat Oldershaw is a California native, creative, and operations specialist. Together (in good company), she started kat&co to respond to the growing need of design operations support in her community.Throughout her career, Kat has managed and directed in multiple creative industries such as Residential Interior Design, Commercial and Hospitality Design, Design + Build, Custom Furniture, and Fine Art.By combining her professional experience with her degree in Psychology from UC Berkeley, Kat is an expert in empathetic leadership and is passionate about creating space for non-traditional business practices.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit kat&co’s WebsiteConnect with Kat on LinkedIn

What happens when a professional musician transitions into the world of clinical counseling and organizational consulting? Meet Taylor Mizuno-Moore, the founder of Mizuno Consulting, whose multifaceted career is as intriguing as it is inspiring. Taylor shares her journey influenced by a multicultural upbringing and a deep passion for community, revealing how she balances multiple identities and passions. We talk about the challenges and triumphs she faced, and how her immigrant family background shaped her path toward helping individuals and organizations achieve sustainable change through a holistic approach.Unlock the secrets to effective goal-setting within both therapy and organizational contexts with Taylor's expert insights. We explore practical steps for defining short-term and long-term goals, understanding client perspectives, and handling discomfort with curiosity. Taylor also delves into her innovative work integrating tattoos and tattoo culture into mental health practices, highlighting how these unique elements contribute to her approach. Emphasizing DEI and human-centered techniques, Taylor's approach to consulting is not only impactful but innovative and refreshing.In the unpredictable world of entrepreneurship, Taylor emphasizes the importance of authenticity, vulnerability, and continuous learning. We discuss how societal judgments and expectations can impact self-expression, and why nurturing team relationships and prioritizing colleague well-being are key to running a successful, empathetic business. Taylor's personal anecdotes about embracing failure and finding joy in her passions offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to balance personal interests with professional responsibilities. Don’t miss out on her tips for creating a supportive environment for growth and authenticity in both business and life.ABOUT TAYLORTaylor Mizuno-Moore (she/they) is the owner of Mizuno Consulting. A queer, biracial (Japanese/American) licensed clinical professional counselor, organizational consultant, and musician, Taylor holds degrees from CSULB, UC Irvine, Northwestern, and USC. She completed a Clinical Research Fellowship at Yale University's Child Study Center. Taylor specializes in working with artists, the LGBTQIA+ community, and integrating tattoos with mental health. Her research focuses on implicit bias in organizational efficiency. A member of various professional associations, Taylor has presented at conferences and podcasts. Additionally, she's a professional musician with extensive experience in taiko drumming, having performed at prestigious venues worldwide.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Mizuno Consulting’s WebsiteFollow Mizuno Consulting on InstagramFind Mizuno Consulting on LinkedInConnect with Taylor on LinkedIn

Curious about what makes a truly exceptional leader? Join us as Amanda Love, a leadership expert with two decades of retail experience, shares her captivating journey from high school cheer captain to a mentor at the world's largest retailer. Amanda delves into the traits and skills that define great leadership, with a strong emphasis on curiosity and the will to succeed. Her passion for empowering others to find fulfillment in their professional lives is palpable, and her fresh perspective on the skill versus will concept is invaluable for anyone aspiring to harness their leadership potential.Amanda opens up about her battle with self-doubt and the limiting beliefs that once held her back. She candidly discusses the importance of self-confidence and the drive to influence others, regardless of one's job title or current situation. By shedding labels and embracing a strong support system, including therapy, she transformed her mindset and achieved success. Amanda’s candid account of her journey from self-doubt to self-belief is both inspiring and a vital lesson for future leaders.We also explore the necessity of lifelong learning and accountability in both personal and professional development. Amanda stresses the importance of self-awareness, working with therapists or coaches, and maintaining a curious mindset. Structured programs with guided steps and built-in accountability are key to ensuring progress. With a focus on uncovering hidden strengths within perceived weaknesses, Amanda shares her method of vision generation and goal planning. This episode wraps up with Amanda’s insights on transitioning from corporate life to entrepreneurship, highlighting the autonomy it brings, and her commitment to supporting women through the Empowered Leadership Circle on Facebook. Don't miss this chance to ignite your leadership journey!ABOUT AMANDAAmanda Love is a “hardscrabble, southern lady” who earned her leadership stripes through high-level strategy and execution at the world’s largest retailer and through learning & development. Uniquely skilled as a leadership mentor, her success has been defined by her commitment to shaping the next generation of business professionals.Over the course of Amanda’s 20-year retail career, she has empowered individuals to reach new heights in their own professional journeys. Her tenacious focus on leadership, coupled with effective team management, has resulted in her successfully designing and executing programs that have empowered individuals and teams to thrive in the ever-evolving landscape of today's workforce.LINKS & RESOURCESJoin The Empowered Leadership Circle on FacebookConnect with Amanda on LinkedIn

Imagine you're witnessing the breathtaking transformation of a New England fall for the first time, because Wantrepreneur to Entrepreneur's own Laura Chaves did just that, drawing remarkable parallels between the changing seasons and the art of adaptability in entrepreneurship. Broadcasting from the campus of Bentley University during our team's Q4 retreat, we explore how altering our surroundings and pace can invigorate our business strategies and personal growth. Laura's insights into embracing change offer a refreshing perspective on staying dynamic in our entrepreneurial endeavors.Picture yourself in a secluded cabin, enveloped by silence and darkness, finding clarity in the absence of distraction. That’s exactly what we experienced and discussed, contemplating how such environments can foster personal growth and creativity. Stepping away from the usual noise allowed us to rejuvenate our approach to business challenges, such as refining automation processes. The profound impact of in-person collaboration, something that virtual interactions often lack, became evident in sparking fresh ideas and energy.As we reflect on this year's journey, we embrace the unique energy that each season brings to our projects. From the charm of New England's fall to the community-driven values discovered on our travels, we delve into the essence of intentional living and strategic business planning.

Unleash the potential of your brand with an unexpected twist on entrepreneurship. Imagine wearing your business like a badge of honor—literally. This Action Saturday, join our host, Brian Lofrumento, as he reveals how a simple investment in swag can transform your entrepreneurial journey. You'll discover why adorning your logo on everything from laptop stickers to t-shirts isn't just about aesthetics; it's a bold declaration that shouts your business's presence to the world. Through Brian's personal narrative, you'll see how tangible merchandise can boost your confidence, spark conversations, and turn holiday gifting into a strategic brand-building opportunity.

What happens when personal tragedy turns into entrepreneurial triumph? Join us for an insightful conversation with Michelle Henriksen, a trailblazing HR leader who transformed her life's setbacks into a thriving business. After experiencing the loss of her husband and a job layoff, Michelle harnessed her resilience and launched her own agency, honoring her husband's entrepreneurial legacy. Discover the deep personal significance behind her company's name and logo, and hear how she navigated these life changes to build a successful venture from the ground up.Michelle dives into the critical aspects of building a robust HR infrastructure, emphasizing the need for consistent policies and systems to support employee growth and career progression. Her extensive experience in mergers and acquisitions reveals the importance of collaboration within HR teams to seamlessly integrate new companies and harmonize roles and compensation. Michelle's insights are invaluable for anyone looking to understand the intricate balance of managing people issues during organizational transitions.Uncover the less glamorous yet essential side of entrepreneurship as Michelle shares her journey from consultant to business owner. From dealing with billing and logistics to strategic networking, learn how she established her credibility and showcased her expertise through collaborations with major HR organizations. Michelle's story highlights the importance of nurturing professional and personal relationships, leaving us with key advice: become an expert in something and believe in yourself. Don’t miss this episode packed with actionable insights and inspiring stories that could propel your own entrepreneurial journey.ABOUT MICHELLEMichelle Henriksen is a dynamic HR leader with 25+ years of global HR experience, advising clients in all aspects of the employee lifecycle with the goal of maximizing efficiencies, leveraging technology, and promoting equitable and consistent employee policies and practices. As a strategic partner to human resources professionals and executive leadership teams, she has assisted organizations in raising performance levels by understanding and mitigating people issues associated with mergers and acquisitions, right-sizing organizations through restructuring/turnaround events, and advising on human resources practices, statutory requirements, and culture when expanding operations internationally. She has spent her career working in both industry and professional services at Accenture, Zulkie Partners, Huron Consulting Group, Walgreens USA, Grant Thornton, and FGMK. In 2022, she founded HG4 Advisory.LINKS & RESOURCESConnect with Michelle on LinkedIn

Unlock the secrets to entrepreneurial success with Steve Pugh, a remarkable entrepreneur who transitioned from a 25-year corporate career to launching thriving businesses like Versus Sports Simulator and River City Towns. Steve's journey from a software engineer to a director of software engineering at a financial institution paved the way for his entrepreneurial ventures. Learn how his foresight and passion for innovation enabled him to retire early and focus full-time on scaling his companies, blending corporate acumen with startup agility. Steve's story is a testament to the power of strategic planning and the pursuit of passive income.Dive deep into the essential skills for building a SaaS product from scratch, guided by Steve's extensive software development experience. He shares invaluable insights on balancing perfectionism with rapid product release, the importance of early marketing efforts, and the significant role continuous learning plays in staying ahead of technology trends. Discover practical advice on implementing the YAGNI principle, just-in-time learning, and the realities of generating passive income. Steve's journey from developing a successful iPhone app to leading his tech company is a masterclass in software development and business strategy.Explore the revolutionary impact of AI and machine learning in modern sports simulation, as Steve sheds light on the historical context and contemporary applications of these technologies. Understand the advantages of having a broad skill set in executive leadership and decision-making. Additionally, learn about Steve's efforts with Pathways to Success, designed to mentor young entrepreneurs and guide them in making informed career choices. This episode is filled with Steve's wisdom on business growth, scalability, and the importance of making thoughtful decisions in both business and life. Tune in for a wealth of knowledge and inspiration from a true industry leader.ABOUT STEVESteve Pugh dedicated over 25 years of his career to a financial institution, where he initially worked as a software engineer before transitioning into leadership roles that matched his passion for guiding people. About a decade ago, Steve recognized the limits of his corporate trajectory and aspired for something different. With an eye toward future independence, he ventured into entrepreneurship by starting his own businesses. Despite initial uncertainties about their success, these ventures flourished, allowing Steve to retire early. Throughout his journey, Steve observed the common challenge of securing funding faced by many startup principals and CEOs, which only fueled his entrepreneurial drive and contributed to his holistic understanding of the business landscape.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Versus Sports Simulator’s WebsiteConnect with Steve on LinkedIn

Unlock the secrets of being discovered online with Denise Millet, the "Findability Queen." Discover how Denise transitioned from a systems consultant to a trailblazing entrepreneur, dedicated to ensuring your business shines on the internet. Denise shares invaluable insights on search marketing essentials, making your content search engine-friendly, and the significance of well-crafted titles and descriptions. Plus, get a sneak peek into her transformative book "Be Findable" and the workshops she offers to help you elevate your online presence.Ever wondered how to balance creating fresh content while optimizing it for search engines? Denise breaks it down, emphasizing the power of AI in boosting productivity without sidelining the human touch. Learn how consistency in content delivery, whether through blogs, podcasts, or videos, is key to engaging your audience. Denise stresses the importance of updating existing content for better SEO performance and creating content that not only showcases your expertise but also builds trust and resonates with potential clients.Stay ahead of the game by mastering SEO strategies for business success. Denise walks us through the evolution of SEO, warning against outdated tactics like keyword stuffing and advocating for genuine value through high-quality content. Learn actionable steps to enhance findability, such as effective keyword usage, and discover practical advice from Denise’s fun, interactive scavenger hunt designed to improve your understanding of your audience's language. Don’t miss the resources available on her website to support your SEO journey, making this episode a must-listen for entrepreneurs at any stage.ABOUT DENISEDenise Millet is the Findability Queen. She is a Search Marketing Consultant, Tech Simplifier, Trainer, Author, and Roving Reporter for the weekly livestream Good Morning Entrepreneurs. She’s on a mission to make sure the content you create for your business is included in search results when your potential clients look for you online. Denise’s book, Be Findable. If they can’t find you, they can’t do business with you, her Simple Ways to Make Yourself Findable workshop, and her Virtual Scavenger Hunt event are some of the ways she is working toward her mission.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Denise’s WebsiteConnect with Denise on LinkedIn