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In today’s episode, Laurie interviews Jessica Kenyon, CEO of The Conafay Group. Jessica shares her thoughts on key entrepreneurial traits like optimism, confidence, and resilience. The discussion covers her unconventional journey to leadership, having a background in archeology and a family of virologists, and how she transitioned into the government relations sector. She also talks about the challenges of succession and leadership transition within her firm. She also emphasizes the importance of trusting your instincts and believing in your own decisions.

Takeaways:

• Cultivate optimism and confidence in your ideas and your ability to execute them.
• Trust your instincts more and have confidence in your decision-making abilities. Reflect on past experiences to reinforce the belief that your instincts have guided you correctly.
• Plan for both leadership and ownership succession to ensure smooth transitions and business continuity. Open communication with the successor and predecessor is crucial during the transition period.
• Be prepared for industry disruptions, such as changes in government administration, and plan accordingly. Adapt your business practices to align with new regulatory and market dynamics.

Quote of the Show:

• “The fundamental things are being incredibly optimistic, having the confidence to believe that not only is your idea a good idea, but that you can actually pull it off, and you have to have thick skin.” - Jessica Kenyon

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-kenyon-4557028-conafay/
• Website: https://conafaygroup.com/

More Ways to Tune In:

• Transistor: https://www.entrepreneurgene.live/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBusinessTransitionSherpa

Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa®

Consider this: 100 percent of owners will leave their business one day. But few are prepared. Are you? Learn how to build business value and plan for succession, transition, or selling the business on your terms.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebusinesstransitionsherpa/
• Website: https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com/
• Book: https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com/the-business-transition-handbook/
• Course: https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com/course/

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Today’s episode showcases Laurie as she interviews Dr. Harry Cohen, President and CEO of Sunny Owl Productions and author of “Be the Sun, Not the Salt.” The conversation starts with discussing the essential traits that differentiate entrepreneurs—such as the ability to tolerate risk and navigate ambiguity. Harry also discusses the significance of instilling an entrepreneurial culture in both large corporations and family-owned businesses, emphasizing the impact of positive energy in leadership. The conversation is enriched with personal anecdotes, including Dr. Cohen’s TEDx experience and his advice for fostering kindness both in oneself and towards others. The episode also offers practical takeaways for cultivating a heliotropic mindset and enhancing professional and personal relationships.

Takeaways:

• To succeed, entrepreneurs must tolerate risk, ambiguity, and difficulty. Cultivate a belief in your mission and purpose, and maintain confidence that you will overcome obstacles.
• Aim to create a positive impact on those around you. Be the "sun" not the "salt" by fostering psychological safety and making people feel valued and motivated.
• Use rituals and positive self-talk to maintain a confident and optimistic mindset before key moments, like giving presentations or meeting with clients.
• Whether in a corporate or family-owned business, cultivating a supportive and innovative culture is crucial. Encourage risk-taking and learning from failures rather than punishing them.

Quote of the Show:

• “You got to have the confidence in yourself to say, I believe in my mission and my purpose and no matter what is in front of me, I will overcome those obstacles.” - Harry Cohen

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harry-cohen-2594841/
• Website: https://bethesunnotthesalt.com/
• Book Link: https://bethesunnotthesalt.com/book/

More Ways to Tune In:

• Transistor: https://podfollow.com/the-entrepreneur-gene
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBusinessTransitionSherpa

Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa®

Consider this: 100 percent of owners will leave their business one day. But few are prepared. Are you? Learn how to build business value and plan for succession, transition, or selling the business on your terms.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebusinesstransitionsherpa/
• Website: https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com/
• Book: https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com/the-business-transition-handbook/
• Course: https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com/course/

📣 Leave a rating and review! ✨ 📸Send a screenshot to: laurie@btsherpa.com and grab a free copy of Laurie’s book and enter to win a monthly swag box! 🎉

In this episode of The Entrepreneur Gene, host Laurie Barkman sits down with Julie Broad, President of Book Launchers, to discuss the entrepreneurial mindset, key decisions, and challenges in business growth. Julie shares her journey from growing up in a highway-side motel in Alberta, Canada to becoming a successful entrepreneur, author, and real estate investor. She offers insights on the importance of problem-solving and risk-taking and how she self-published her first book. Julie also talks about harnessing AI in her business, transitioning her company from California to Nevada, and her passions for pickleball and poker.

Takeaways:

• Entrepreneurs should look for gaps in the market and opportunities where they can provide unique solutions.
• When making strategic decisions, consult with your team. Their excitement and input can guide you toward the best opportunity to pursue next.
• Have a vision for where you want your business to go in the next few years. Although long-term plans can change, having a direction helps in making aligned decisions.
• Offering resources like a workbook or a guide, as Julie does with the seven steps to write a book, can help others and establish you as an authority in your field.

Quote of the Show:

• “When somebody says, ‘That doesn't sound like a good idea’, I go, ‘I think it is a good idea. I better go find out’.” - Julie Broad

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliebroad/
• Website: https://booklaunchers.com/
• Book Link: https://juliebroad.com/books/

More Ways to Tune In:

• Transistor: https://podfollow.com/the-entrepreneur-gene
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBusinessTransitionSherpa

Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa®

Consider this: 100 percent of owners will leave their business one day. But few are prepared. Are you? Learn how to build business value and plan for succession, transition, or selling the business on your terms.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebusinesstransitionsherpa/
• Website: https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com/
• Book: https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com/the-business-transition-handbook/
• Course: https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com/course/

📣 Leave a rating and review! ✨ 📸Send a screenshot to: laurie@btsherpa.com and grab a free copy of Laurie’s book and enter to win a monthly swag box! 🎉

Today, Laurie Barkman interviews Gregory Silvano, CEO of Buyist. Greg shares his entrepreneurial journey to founding his own companies, emphasizing resilience, optimism, and pure delusion. They discuss navigating risks, cash flow management in startups, and the strategic value of customer reviews. They also discuss the significant impact of AI across industries and the practicality of ‘good enough’ solutions in business operations. Greg also reflects on key entrepreneurial advice, long-term investment strategies, and maintaining physical health.

Takeaways:

• Cultivate optimism, risk-taking, and a bit of delusional belief in your business. These traits can help overcome challenges and setbacks.
• Explore and implement AI tools to improve efficiency in tasks such as SEO, content creation, and customer support. AI is transforming industries and being an early adopter can provide a competitive edge.
• Regularly review your finances to ensure healthy cash flow. Balance your spending, avoid overextending with debt, and build a financial buffer.
• Spend time on important tasks that drive the business forward. This includes strategic planning, marketing, and customer relationship management.

Quote of the Show:

• “It's not just part of your personality to be a successful entrepreneur. It takes a lot more than just being a risk-taking delusional optimist.” - Gregory Silvano

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/buyist/
• Website: https://buyist.com/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Buyist

More Ways to Tune In:

• Transistor: https://podfollow.com/the-entrepreneur-gene
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBusinessTransitionSherpa

Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa®

Consider this: 100 percent of owners will leave their business one day. But few are prepared. Are you? Learn how to build business value and plan for succession, transition, or selling the business on your terms.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebusinesstransitionsherpa/
• Website: https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com/
• Book: https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com/the-business-transition-handbook/
• Course: https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com/course/

📣 Leave a rating and review! ✨ 📸Send a screenshot to: laurie@btsherpa.com and grab a free copy of Laurie’s book and enter to win a monthly swag box! 🎉

In this episode of The Entrepreneur Gene, Laurie Barkman interviews Taylor Abbett, Co-Founder of JARVISXR and President of Tailored Marketing Inc. They explore key aspects of entrepreneurial growth, specifically the importance of tenacity and decision-making in facing industry challenges. Taylor shares insights from his career in marketing, detailing the impact of AI on the industry and the shift towards project-based work. He also narrates his entrepreneurial journey, from his upbringing in Pittsburgh to founding his own company, providing valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. The discussion also touches on balancing professional ambitions with personal interests, including future aspirations and hobbies.

Takeaways:

• Remind entrepreneurs that obstacles are part of the journey and staying tenacious will help them overcome hurdles.
• Adaptability is important. Be open to pivoting strategies when necessary while maintaining a commitment to the end goal.
• Encourage viewing failures as learning opportunities that contribute to growth and development.
• Highlight stories or examples where persistence has led to success, reinforcing the idea that persistence is crucial in entrepreneurship.

Quote of the Show:

• “There's going to be times where people are going to doubt you and they might be envious of your success, but I think if you're tenacious and you believe in yourself, that'll get you a long way.” - Taylor Abbett

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-abbett-7128ab1/
• Website: https://tailoredmarketing.com/

More Ways to Tune In:

• Transistor: https://podfollow.com/the-entrepreneur-gene
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBusinessTransitionSherpa

Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa®

Consider this: 100 percent of owners will leave their business one day. But few are prepared. Are you? Learn how to build business value and plan for succession, transition, or selling the business on your terms.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebusinesstransitionsherpa/
• Website: https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com/
• Book: https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com/the-business-transition-handbook/
• Course: https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com/course/

📣 Leave a rating and review! ✨ 📸Send a screenshot to: laurie@btsherpa.com and grab a free copy of Laurie’s book and enter to win a monthly swag box! 🎉

In this episode of The Entrepreneur Gene, host Laurie Barkman interviews Charlie Buscarino, the Founder and CEO of The Clarient Group. Charlie shares his path from construction to entrepreneurship. They discuss the innovations in smart building technology and the importance of creativity and problem-solving in uncharted territory. Charlie also reflects on his career, emphasizing the significance of networking and maintaining a work-life balance, while sharing insights from his personal life and family experiences.

Takeaways:

• Build a strong network, meet people, and seek diverse viewpoints to broaden your understanding and opportunities.
• Focus on improving client experiences and meeting their business objectives, such as reducing costs or enhancing operational efficiency.
• Prioritize self-discovery and personal growth alongside professional ambitions.
• Explore new interests and activities that contribute to your overall development and well-being.

Quote of the Show:

• “As one takes the journey, you start to make decisions that when collected become the components that are foundational to being an entrepreneur.” - Charlie Buscarino

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlesbuscarino/
• Website: https://theclarientgroup.com/

More Ways to Tune In:

• Transistor: https://podfollow.com/the-entrepreneur-gene
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBusinessTransitionSherpa

Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa®

Consider this: 100 percent of owners will leave their business one day. But few are prepared. Are you? Learn how to build business value and plan for succession, transition, or selling the business on your terms.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebusinesstransitionsherpa/
• Website: https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com/
• Book: https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com/the-business-transition-handbook/
• Course: https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com/course/

📣 Leave a rating and review! ✨ 📸Send a screenshot to: laurie@btsherpa.com and grab a free copy of Laurie’s book and enter to win a monthly swag box! 🎉

In this episode, host Laurie Barkman interviews Dean Minuto, President of YESCALATE. Dean shares his insights on entrepreneurship and the development of crucial skills necessary for success. The discussion emphasizes the importance of asking the right questions to learn in business and Dean elaborates on building muscle in entrepreneurship through learning and community. He also shares personal experiences that shaped his entrepreneurial journey, advocating for transformational relationships in business and life.

Takeaways:

• Frequently ask important questions like "What works?", "Why does it work?", and "How can I apply it to my situation?" to guide your learning and actions.
• Emphasize the importance of being curious and having a test-and-learn mindset. This involves continuously seeking knowledge, adapting, and improving.
• Treat necessary skills like selling, presenting, or cold-calling as muscles that need regular exercise. Dedicate time to practice and improve these skills consistently.
• Constantly work on self-improvement, whether it’s through reading, attending workshops, or other educational opportunities. Personal growth often translates to business growth.

Quote of the Show:

• “I think that's something that every entrepreneur sees. In that trial, there's treasure.” - Dean Minuto

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanminuto/
• Website: https://yescalate.com/about/
• Book Link: https://www.amazon.com/One-Page-Sales-Coach-New-Revised/dp/1475174349/ref=asc_df_1475174349/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=693590811307&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=897125615541869392&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1021903&hvtargid=pla-535315508086&psc=1&mcid=83f1e2fffc04338b86e296ec0b2fd3ca&gad_source=1

More Ways to Tune In:

• Transistor: https://podfollow.com/the-entrepreneur-gene
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBusinessTransitionSherpa

Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa®

Consider this: 100 percent of owners will leave their business one day. But few are prepared. Are you? Learn how to build business value and plan for succession, transition, or selling the business on your terms.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebusinesstransitionsherpa/
• Website: https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com/
• Book: https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com/the-business-transition-handbook/
• Course: https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com/course/

📣 Leave a rating and review! ✨ 📸Send a screenshot to: laurie@btsherpa.com and grab a free copy of Laurie’s book and enter to win a monthly swag box! 🎉

Today, Laurie Barkman welcomes Susan Quinn, CEO and President of circle S studio. The conversation first explores whether entrepreneurial traits are inherited or nurtured. Susan shares her family's history of business ownership, her journey to founding her own consulting firm, and the values that drive her company's culture. The episode also covers the challenges entrepreneurs face today, the future impact of AI on the industry, and personal anecdotes about Susan's origin story and passions outside of work. This engaging discussion provides insights on leadership and maintaining a positive outlook amidst challenges.

Takeaways:

• Hire skilled individuals and trust them with responsibilities. Delegating tasks empowers your team and allows you to focus on strategic aspects of the business.
• Stay curious and continuously seek knowledge. Engage with emerging technologies like AI to boost productivity and innovation.
• View challenges as opportunities for growth. Maintain a positive approach to problem-solving and encourage your team to do the same.
• Explore and integrate AI tools to streamline tasks and enhance efficiency. Use technology to free up time for more strategic and creative work.

Quote of the Show:

• “I always knew I wanted to do something where I was the person deciding my own destiny, but it's not for everyone.” - Susan Quinn

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanquinn01/
• Website: https://circlesstudio.com/
• Susan’s Podcast: https://circlesstudio.com/insights/podcast/

More Ways to Tune In:

• Transistor: https://podfollow.com/the-entrepreneur-gene
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBusinessTransitionSherpa

Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa®

Consider this: 100 percent of owners will leave their business one day. But few are prepared. Are you? Learn how to build business value and plan for succession, transition, or selling the business on your terms.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebusinesstransitionsherpa/
• Website: https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com/
• Book: https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com/the-business-transition-handbook/
• Course: https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com/course/