Afleveringen
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In this episode of Retained Trust, host Karl Hughes speaks with John-Henry Scherck, the founder of Growth Plays, a B2B SEO and content strategy agency. John-Henry shares his transition from a solo consultant to building a growing agency, despite initially vowing never to hire employees. He discusses the challenges of scaling a strategy-driven service, the importance of hiring experienced talent, and how his approach differs from traditional agency models. The conversation explores the difficulty of getting strategic recommendations implemented, how to align content strategy with business objectives, and the key traits he looks for in hires. John-Henry also delves into personal branding, client acquisition through reputation, and how his agency balances autonomy and structure.
Key Points From This Episode:
[00:01:14] John-Henryâs early mindset: Why he originally resisted hiring.
[00:02:38] How Growth Plays differentiates from traditional agencies.
[00:03:52] The challenges of scaling a strategy-driven business.
[00:04:54] How Growth Plays positions itself in the B2B SEO and content strategy space.
[00:06:08] The hardest part of scaling strategy: Getting recommendations implemented.
[00:07:42] Creating urgency in content strategy to drive execution.
[00:09:50] Aligning strategy with business goals, public earnings reports, and KPIs.
[00:12:11] The importance of one-on-one stakeholder conversations to extract real insights.
[00:15:25] Key hiring attributes: Critical thinking, communication, and autonomy.
[00:18:28] How John-Henry builds a team that counterbalances his own strengths and weaknesses.
[00:20:54] The role of personal branding and word-of-mouth in agency growth.
[00:22:22] Delivering great work as the best marketing strategy.
Links:
John-Henry Scherck on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhtscherck/ Growth Plays: https://growthplays.com/ Karl Hughes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karllhughes Production and editing by The Podcast Consultant: https://thepodcastconsultant.com
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In this episode of Retained Trust, host Karl Hughes speaks with Paul Seaton, founder of AgencyFi, which provides outsourced accounting and CFO services for digital and creative agencies. Paul shares his journey from Deloitte to running his own firm, helping agencies navigate financial complexities. They discuss the importance of understanding gross margins, structuring financials properly, and making strategic decisions to balance profitability and growth. Paul also delves into content marketing strategies, trust-building with clients, and the realities of scaling an agency while maintaining financial health. Whether youâre an agency owner looking to refine your financial strategy or someone interested in the business side of digital services, this episode offers valuable insights.
Key Points From This Episode:
[00:00:00] Introduction to Paul Seaton and AgencyFi.
[00:01:15] How Paul transitioned from Deloitte to launching his own firm.
[00:03:00] Why Paul chose to specialize in digital and creative agencies.
[00:04:25] Understanding the financial challenges agencies face.
[00:06:10] The importance of trust in financial services.
[00:07:45] Strategies for growing an agency-focused financial business.
[00:09:50] Content marketing as a key driver for client acquisition.
[00:12:15] The role of financial advisors in operational decisions.
[00:14:30] The significance of gross margins in agency profitability.
[00:17:00] Common financial misconceptions among agency owners.
[00:19:40] Best practices for structuring an agencyâs P&L statement.
[00:22:10] The challenges of scaling and hiring delivery managers.
[00:24:30] Balancing a lifestyle business vs. a scalable agency model.
[00:27:15] Paul's perspective on pricing, churn, and long-term client relationships.
[00:30:45] Final advice for agency owners looking to improve their finances.
Links:
Paul Seaton on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-seaton-78392880/ AgencyFi: https://www.agencyfi.co/ Karl Hughes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karllhughesProduction and editing by The Podcast Consultant: https://thepodcastconsultant.com
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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In this episode of Retained Trust, host Karl Hughes speaks with Aidan Sowa, founder and CEO of VelvetVoice PR. Aidan shares his unique journey from running a lead generation agency to building a thriving PR firm. He dives into the intricacies of âsales-enabled PR,â blending traditional strategies with modern tools to maximize impact. Aidan unpacks the challenges agency owners face when relying solely on referrals and highlights how PR can amplify credibility, boost conversions, and even attract investors. From authentic storytelling to leveraging cold email campaigns and staying resilient through setbacks, Aidanâs insights are a must-listen for agency owners looking to scale effectively. Tune in to explore actionable PR strategies that fuel growth and sustain trust.
Key Points From This Episode:[00:00:00] Karl Hughes introduces the episode and guest, Aidan Sowa, founder of VelvetVoice PR.
[00:01:00] Aidan explains VelvetVoice PRâs focus on building authority for entrepreneurs, influencers, and businesses.
[00:03:10] Importance of PR for influencers and how strategic press coverage drives credibility.
[00:05:14] Addressing challenges in PR attribution and maximizing ROI through social media and ads.
[00:07:22] The credibility impact of PR on startups and venture-backed companies.
[00:10:09] Advantages of âsales-enabled PRâ over traditional approaches, focusing on measurable outcomes.
[00:13:41] Mistakes to avoid in PR campaigns, including overuse of press releases and poor messaging.
[00:16:03] Trends in PR for 2024, including the role of authenticity and the pitfalls of AI-generated content.
[00:19:10] Tools like HARO and local business coverage as cost-effective PR starting points for small teams.
[00:22:18] Aidanâs pivot from lead generation to PR during the COVID-19 pandemic.
[00:24:30] Lessons learned from early entrepreneurial challenges, including dealing with chargebacks.
[00:28:19] Scaling with cold email: Aidan shares practical strategies and tools for high-volume outreach.
[00:35:04] How authenticity and executive involvement enhance sales conversations with larger clients.
[00:43:22] Best practices for preventing chargebacks and ensuring payment security in digital services.
[00:47:18] Debunking myths around âquick successâ and the value of persistence in scaling an agency.
[00:52:07] Aidan reflects on the importance of mindset, personal growth, and strategic goal-setting in entrepreneurship.
Links:Aidan Sowa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aidansowa/Aidan Sowa on X: https://x.com/AidanCSowaVelvetVoice PR: https://www.velvetvoicepr.com/Karl Hughes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karllhughesRetained Trust: https://retainedtrust.com/Production and editing by The Podcast Consultant: https://thepodcastconsultant.com
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In this episode of Retained Trust, host Karl Hughes welcomes Tevia Hoalst, founder of TeKoda Accounting, for an engaging conversation on the world of small business finance. Tevia shares her journey from the restaurant industry to leading a team that helps entrepreneurs manage their day-to-day accounting with a personalized approach. They explore the differences between "tax books" and "business books" and why a tailored approach to financial reporting can make or break a companyâs decision-making process. Tevia explains the importance of finding the right financial partner who understands the unique needs of small businesses and emphasizes how data-driven insights can alleviate growth-related cash flow challenges. The discussion also covers key growth lessons, cash cycle management, and the psychological highs and lows of entrepreneurship.
Key Points From This Episode:[00:00:00] Karl Hughes welcomes guest Tevia Hoalst, founder of TeKoda Accounting.
[00:01:00] TeKoda Accountingâs personalized approach: Humanizing the bookkeeping process with client-tailored services.
[00:02:02] Internal vs. tax accounting: Differences in how business and tax books are organized and why both matter.
[00:04:58] The challenge of generic categories in tax-focused bookkeeping and its limitations on operational insights.
[00:08:26] The importance of hiring the right accounting professionals for small businesses.
[00:10:53] Insights from diverse industries: How observing different financial structures helps TeKodaâs Accounting provide better advice.
[00:14:24] Common triggers for outsourcing bookkeeping: When and why entrepreneurs seek professional financial management.
[00:17:31] The pitfalls of ignoring historical data and the importance of proactive financial planning.
[00:20:13] Why entrepreneurs may resist data-driven decisions and how to balance vision with practical financial insights.
[00:25:10] Managing growth-related cash flow challenges, such as negative cash cycles and solutions like credit lines and upfront payments.
[00:28:26] Strategic financial planning: Knowing when to secure funding before a growth phase to avoid cash crunches.
[00:31:03] Marketing challenges for service-based businesses and the importance of trust in customer acquisition.
[00:36:17] The hiring process at TeKoda Accounting: Culture-first recruiting and the use of live skills assessments.
[00:41:10] Managing the emotional highs and lows of entrepreneurship with the support of peer networks.
[00:46:07] Book recommendations for entrepreneurs: "Simple Numbers" by Greg Crabtree and "Awesomely Simple" by John Spence.
[00:50:46] Teviaâs goals for the future: Exploring growth through acquisitions and expanding brand visibility.
Links:Tevia Hoalst on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tevia-hoalst/TeKoda Accounting: https://www.tekodaaccounting.com/Karl Hughes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karllhughesRetained Trust: https://retainedtrust.com/Production and editing by The Podcast Consultant: https://thepodcastconsultant.com
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In this solo episode of Retained Trust, host Karl Hughes takes a departure from his usual guest interviews to share a deeply personal and structured discussion on the 12 books that have most influenced his journey as an entrepreneur. Ranging from timeless classics to modern masterpieces, Karl reflects on how each book impacted his mindset, approach, and business strategies. From reshaping his understanding of productivity with The 4-Hour Work Week to conquering fear and embracing action with The Alchemist, this episode is packed with insights and practical takeaways. Tune in to discover how these powerful reads can help you grow, pivot, and achieve long-term success in your entrepreneurial endeavors.
Key Points From This Episode:
[00:00:00] Introduction to the solo episode and its purpose
[00:01:14] The 4-Hour Work Week by Tim Ferriss â early inspiration for productivity and freedom
[00:04:00] How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie â essential communication and rapport-building tips
[00:06:05] The Mom Test by Rob Fitzpatrick â validating business ideas the right way
[00:08:12] Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert & The War of Art by Steven Pressfield â overcoming creative resistance and fear
[00:10:00] The E-Myth Revisited by Michael Gerber â building systems, not just products
[00:12:17] The Obstacle is the Way by Ryan Holiday â reframing challenges as growth opportunities
[00:13:25] How Will You Measure Your Life by Clayton Christensen â defining success beyond financial gains
[00:14:15] Buy Then Build by Walker Deibel â strategies for acquisition entrepreneurship
[00:16:03] Unlimited Power by Tony Robbins â the cycle of belief, action, and results
[00:17:35] The Gap and The Gain by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy â rethinking success and progress
[00:19:14] The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho â the importance of belief, purpose, and overcoming fear
[00:21:00] Final reflections and invitation for audience book recommendations
Links:
Karl Hughes on X: https://x.com/karllhughes Karl Hughes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karllhughes Retained Trust: https://retainedtrust.com/ Production and editing by The Podcast Consultant: https://thepodcastconsultant.com -
In this episode of Retained Trust, host Karl Hughes speaks with Bob Tripathi, founder of Digital Sparx Marketing, about his fascinating journey through corporate roles, entrepreneurial pivots, and building a thriving marketing agency. Bob reflects on lessons learned from startups and large companies, discusses the importance of patience and adaptability, and shares how he turned challenges like the pandemic into opportunities with resourcefulness and grit. From digital marketing innovations to launching a PPE business during a crisis, Bobâs story is a testament to the power of resilience, curiosity, and lifelong learning. Tune in for insights into agency growth, navigating business hurdles, and fostering genuine human connections in work and life.
Key Points From This Episode:
[00:00:00] Introduction to Bob Tripathi and his journey in marketing and entrepreneurship.
[00:01:16] Bob introduces Digital Sparx Marketing and its data-driven approach.
[00:03:06] The challenge of understanding the marketing funnel and utilizing data effectively.
[00:05:13] Bobâs career shift from corporate giants like Discover to startups.
[00:08:26] Differences in skillsets required for startups versus big corporations.
[00:11:23] Developing patience as a key skill for agency success.
[00:14:15] Founding Online Marketing Training and identifying a market gap.
[00:18:08] Transitioning into running an agency despite initial reluctance.
[00:24:19] Bobâs pivot during the pandemic to launch a successful PPE business.
[00:30:23] Lessons from the pandemic-driven business experience.
[00:36:54] The importance of continuous learning and curiosity.
[00:39:35] Building a support network and valuing diverse perspectives.
[00:44:04] Bobâs reflections on reading the Bhagavad Gita and staying present in life and business.
Links:
Bob Tripathi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobtripathi/ Digital Sparx: https://digitalsparxmarketing.com/ Karl Hughes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karllhughes Production and editing by The Podcast Consultant: https://thepodcastconsultant.com -
In this episode of Retained Trust, host Karl Hughes sits down with Kyle Shevlin, founder of Agathist, a software development agency specializing in React and React Native. Kyle shares his journey from freelancing and full-time development roles to establishing Agathist, focusing on creating "good software by good people." He delves into the challenges of transitioning from solo work to agency leadership, his philosophy of balancing profitability with passion, and the practical strategies he employs to build a sustainable business. The conversation highlights Agathistâs unique strengths, including deep technical expertise, client trust, and the importance of fostering a flexible, supportive work environment. Whether you're an agency owner or a developer considering the leap, this episode offers valuable insights into scaling with purpose and maintaining a personal touch in business.
Key Points From This Episode:
[00:00:44] Introduction to Kyle Shevlin and Agathist: "Good software by good people."
[00:01:35] Kyle explains the origins of the Agathist name and its philosophical significance.
[00:04:33] Transitioning from freelancing and full-time roles to building an agency.
[00:06:44] The balance between passion-driven projects and profitability.
[00:08:01] Neurodivergence and its role in shaping Kyleâs approach to business.
[00:14:29] The importance of referrals in landing early clients.
[00:17:00] Agathistâs differentiation: deep React/React Native expertise and project agility.
[00:20:08] Balancing quality and speed while delivering software projects.
[00:25:43] Agathistâs vision: building a small, cohesive, and impactful team.
[00:33:13] Avoiding burnout and creating a sustainable work-life balance.
[00:41:27] The privilege of support systems in entrepreneurship.
[00:48:59] Kyleâs philosophical approach to growth and business sustainability.
Links:
Kyle Shevlin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyleshevlin/Agathist: https://agath.ist/Karl Hughes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karllhughesProduction and editing by The Podcast Consultant: https://thepodcastconsultant.com
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In this episode of Retained Trust, host Karl Hughes sits down with George Zlatin, co-founder of Digital Third Coast, a Chicago-based SEO and digital marketing agency. George shares his unconventional entry into the digital marketing world, starting from launching an online dog boutique to becoming a respected SEO expert and business leader. They explore the evolution of SEO, including how Digital Third Coast has adapted to changing algorithms and AI-driven content strategies. George also reflects on building a business, hiring the right people, and stepping back from leadership roles to pursue what he loves most â marketing and product development.
Key Points From This Episode:[00:00:00] Georgeâs career beginnings: from online dog boutique to SEO agency founder.
[00:02:02] The founding story of Digital Third Coast in Chicago.
[00:05:03] Early SEO tactics and how the industry has evolved.
[00:08:10] Hiring challenges and the impact of a great sales hire.
[00:13:25] Adapting to remote work and expanding client reach beyond Chicago.
[00:17:08] Delegating work and trusting team members for business growth.
[00:23:10] SEOâs future: The rise of AI and shifts in Google search results.
[00:29:17] Effective content marketing strategies in a changing SEO landscape.
[00:34:12] Using AI as a productivity tool in marketing and content creation.
[00:40:05] Educating the next generation about AI and technology.
[00:42:15] Recommended reads: Who Not How and Top Five Regrets of the Dying.
[00:46:20] Georgeâs personal passion: rediscovering music through guitar lessons.
Links:George Zlatin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgezlatin/Digital Third Coast: https://www.digitalthirdcoast.com/Karl Hughes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karllhughesProduction and editing by The Podcast Consultant: https://thepodcastconsultant.com
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In this episode of Retained Trust, host Karl Hughes sits down with David Flanagan, founder of The Rawkode Academy and a veteran in developer advocacy. David shares his entrepreneurial journey, from building a niche YouTube channel to launching a unique business model centered on authentic, developer-focused content. They discuss the risks of leaving a stable job, how to monetize a passion project, and the complexities of balancing creativity with business strategy. David opens up about the struggles of pricing services, managing client expectations, and even recovering after a devastating office fire. Tune in for a candid look at how to build a business with authenticity at its core.
Key Points From This Episode:
[00:00:00] Karl Hughes introduces the episode and David Flanagan's background.
[00:01:00] David shares his early career in developer relations at InfluxDB and Equinix.
[00:02:14] Launching The Rawkode Academy after leaving full-time employment.
[00:04:03] Balancing career risks with family responsibilities while starting a business.
[00:07:15] Signing the first client contract and turning leads into partnerships.
[00:10:08] Experimenting with early business models and adjusting pricing strategies.
[00:16:20] Establishing core business values: authenticity, organic content, and embracing failure.
[00:22:45] Challenges of developer marketing and the importance of educational content.
[00:28:07] Managing the complexities of a one-person business and scaling production.
[00:34:12] Explaining The Rawkode Academyâs partnership model and its unique structure.
[00:42:36] Comparing traditional marketing tactics like trade shows to a value-driven partnership approach.
[00:48:27] Lessons learned about pricing and securing clients through tailored offers.
[00:54:05] Reflecting on rebuilding after a major office fire and finding a renewed business focus.
[00:57:25] Looking ahead: Davidâs future goals for scaling his platform and community.
Links:
David Flanagan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rawkode/ Rawkode Academy: https://rawkode.academy/ Karl Hughes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karllhughes Production and editing by The Podcast Consultant: https://thepodcastconsultant.com
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In this episode of Retained Trust, host Karl Hughes sits down with Chris Gwinn, founder of Midwest CFO, a fractional CFO firm helping small businesses thrive by optimizing financial strategies and preparing for growth or exits. Chris shares his entrepreneurial journey, transitioning from Great Lakes Advisory to Midwest CFO, and the lessons learned along the way. The discussion explores common financial mistakes in small businesses, the importance of understanding gross margins, and the role of financial strategy in scaling operations. Chris also delves into his service model, networking strategies, and future plans for scaling Midwest CFO. Whether you're an entrepreneur seeking financial clarity or looking to scale your business, this episode is packed with actionable insights.
Key Points From This Episode:
[00:00:00] Introduction to Chris Gwinn and Midwest CFO's mission.
[00:02:04] Challenges entrepreneurs face in understanding their financials.
[00:05:07] Common financial oversights in small businesses and their impact.
[00:09:14] The importance of gross margins and proper financial breakout.
[00:13:25] Balancing low-profit service lines with business strategy.
[00:17:32] Transitioning from Great Lakes Advisory to Midwest CFO.
[00:19:41] Identifying market needs for a scalable service offering.
[00:25:14] Networking and referrals as key growth strategies.
[00:33:05] Systematizing networking for sustained referrals.
[00:37:22] Structuring financial strategies to align with business goals.
[00:41:13] Plans for scaling Midwest CFO with fractional CFOs.
[00:49:12] Reflections on the emotional journey of entrepreneurship.
[00:52:10] Recommended reads for entrepreneurs and financial leaders.
[00:56:13] Chrisâs vision for Midwest CFO in the next year.
Links:
Chris Gwinn on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-gwinn-cfa-96383b26/ Midwest CFO: https://midwestcfo.com/ Karl Hughes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karllhughes Production and editing by The Podcast Consultant: https://thepodcastconsultant.com -
In this episode of Retained Trust, host Karl Hughes speaks with Kon Kruglyak, founder of Candidate IQ, about the realities of starting a staffing business in challenging economic times. Kon shares his journey from corporate and financial recruiting to launching his own agency. Together, they explore the highs and lows of the recruiting industry, the strategies for building relationships with clients, and the importance of persistence in entrepreneurship. Kon offers insights into navigating tough markets, the value of work-life balance, and what it takes to attract and retain talent. Tune in for an honest discussion about entrepreneurial resilience and the future of staffing.
Key Points From This Episode:
[00:00:00] Introduction to Kon Kruglyak and Candidate IQ.
[00:01:07] Overview of Candidate IQâs staffing model and services.
[00:02:14] Challenges in recruiting amid economic shifts.
[00:03:04] The impact of economic conditions on recruitment strategies.
[00:06:19] Strategies for business resilience during downturns.
[00:07:12] Persistence and relationship-building in the recruiting industry.
[00:09:43] Key skills learned from corporate recruiting experience.
[00:15:12] Reflections on pursuing an MBA and its entrepreneurial impact.
[00:18:45] Gaining new problem-solving skills and networks through an MBA.
[00:19:27] Early strategies for generating business for Candidate IQ.
[00:21:19] Long-term vision: hiring and scaling the business.
[00:25:32] Balancing prospecting with service delivery.
[00:28:47] Staying resilient through rejection and market challenges.
[00:32:11] Lessons from starting a business in a downturn.
[00:39:04] Work-life balance, transparency, and culture for retaining talent.
[00:45:18] Reflections on productivity, flexibility, and the entrepreneurial journey.
[00:47:33] Konâs vision for Candidate IQ over the next year.
Links:
Kon Kruglyak on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/konkruglyak/ Candidate IQ: https://thecandidateiq.com/ Karl Hughes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karllhughes
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In this episode of Retained Trust, host Karl Hughes sits down with Kurt Schnakenberg, co-founder of Chicago Brass and ADBM, to discuss his entrepreneurial journey and the innovative approaches heâs using to redefine his industries. From building a niche architectural consulting firm to launching ADBMâa pioneering agency offering ethical offshore staffing solutionsâKurt shares insights into scaling businesses, creating value through specialization, and maintaining authenticity in leadership. He emphasizes the importance of empathy in global workforces and discusses how to navigate challenges like onboarding, customer resistance, and balancing multiple ventures. Tune in for actionable strategies, hard-won lessons, and a candid look at the highs and lows of entrepreneurship.
Key Points From This Episode:
[00:00:00] Karl introduces Kurt Schnakenberg and starts with a light-hearted conversation about hats and personal presentation.
[00:02:45] Kurt discusses his role at Chicago Brass and how appearance has influenced his interactions in the industry.
[00:05:12] Kurt describes the founding of Chicago Brass and its focus on high-end architectural hardware.
[00:06:58] Challenges in the building materials industry spark the creation of ADBM to address inefficiencies.
[00:08:42] Kurt explains the pivot to staffing and the importance of simplicity in the business model.
[00:10:33] Indicators of product-market fit: strong early demand and straightforward sales conversations.
[00:13:17] Ethical offshoring: maintaining fair wages, treating offshore staff with respect, and building long-term relationships.
[00:17:05] Navigating challenges in onboarding remote staff and addressing resistance within client companies.
[00:18:55] Tapping Kurt's network for initial growth and scaling the new business.
[00:24:05] Balancing time and emotional energy between Chicago Brass and ADBM.
[00:30:02] The advantages of niche focus and how it strengthens credibility and client trust.
[00:36:15] Managing the emotional highs and lows of entrepreneurship through metrics and reflection.
[00:40:15] Structured decision-making through assigning roles like optimist, pessimist, and pragmatist.
[00:43:50] Book recommendations for entrepreneurs: Rework by Jason Fried and Boutique by Greg Alexander.
[00:46:15] Kurt shares his one-year goals for ADBM: reaching 150 placements and delegating the sales role.
Links:
Kurt Schnakenberg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurtschnakenberg/ ADBM: https://adbm.agency/ Karl Hughes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karllhughes Production and editing by The Podcast Consultant: https://thepodcastconsultant.com
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In this episode of Retained Trust, host Karl Hughes invites his business partner and close friend, Manuel Weiss, to share their dynamic journey of entrepreneurship, partnership, and building lasting businesses. From Manuelâs early days in Vienna founding a tech startup to Karlâs evolution from software engineer to content marketing entrepreneur, the duo discusses their shared experiences, lessons learned, and the foundational trust theyâve built along the way. They reveal the intricacies of starting and scaling businesses like Draft.dev and The Podcast Consultant, emphasizing the importance of transparency, strategy, and leveraging strengths in a partnership. Tune in to explore their vision for building a portfolio of niche service businesses and hear candid insights on navigating work-life balance, acquisitions, and team building.
Key Points From This Episode:[00:00:00] Manuel shares his entrepreneurial background and early career in Austria.
[00:02:14] Karl introduces his career trajectory and the foundation of Draft.dev.
[00:07:03] How Karl and Manuel reconnected and the origins of their partnership.
[00:10:50] Initial experiments, including an online course, and the shift to buying businesses.
[00:16:30] The decision to focus on podcast production as a scalable niche service.
[00:20:15] Challenges and insights from the acquisition of The Podcast Consultant.
[00:27:45] Manuel and Carl discuss the importance of building strong team culture.
[00:35:20] Raising prices and refining client portfolios to optimize revenue and margins.
[00:41:12] The value of documentation, systems, and async work in a remote partnership.
[00:45:48] Balancing entrepreneurial ambitions with the realities of family life.
[00:52:30] Their long-term vision for a portfolio of sustainable niche businesses.
Links:Manuel Weiss on LinkedIn: https://at.linkedin.com/in/manuelweissKarl Hughes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karllhughesProduction and editing by The Podcast Consultant: https://thepodcastconsultant.com
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In this episode of Retained Trust, host Karl Hughes is joined by Jared Gibson, co-founder of Outworks, a marketing agency helping founders and executives build influence on LinkedIn. Jared shares his transition from a traditional sales role to entrepreneurship and discusses the journey of launching Outworks, from initial networking strategies to developing scalable, targeted content. They explore Jaredâs approach to personal branding, tactics for leveraging LinkedInâs algorithms, and the importance of building a consistent presence. Jared also dives into the role of partnerships and the mental resilience required for early-stage founders, giving listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the Outworks strategy and growth model. Whether you're a founder looking to grow your LinkedIn audience or curious about agency life, this episode offers key insights on navigating the modern digital landscape.
Key Points From This Episode:
[00:01:03] Jaredâs video strategy for LinkedIn: creating short-form, conversational content.
[00:06:10] Insights on LinkedInâs algorithm and how engagement drives reach.
[00:07:11] The mission of Outworks: helping founders build networks and consistent content on LinkedIn.
[00:12:19] Jaredâs journey from VP of Sales to marketing strategist and entrepreneur.
[00:16:17] The role of adaptability and learning in starting Outworks.
[00:19:26] How partners influence Jaredâs approach to business and Outworksâ service expansion.
[00:22:11] The importance of maintaining a consistent pipeline for growth.
[00:24:27] Diversifying lead generation through referrals and partner networks.
[00:31:13] Outworksâ client strategy: creating LinkedIn content through interviews and ghostwriting.
[00:34:09] Building repeatable systems for LinkedIn optimization and content management.
[00:40:35] Reflections on the mental resilience needed for entrepreneurship.
[00:42:08] Benefits and challenges of having business partners in a startup.
[00:49:34] Book recommendations and resources for founders focused on growth and resilience.
Links:
Jared Gibson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaredoutworks/Outworks: https://outworks.io/Karl Hughes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karllhughesProduction and editing by The Podcast Consultant: https://thepodcastconsultant.com
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In this episode of Retained Trust, host Karl Hughes sits down with Shannon Beasley, founder of Acorn to Oak Strategies, to discuss her path from a biomedical engineering student to a local SEO agency owner. Shannon shares how her experiences in project management and sales eventually led her to build a business that focuses on empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Together, they delve into the nuances of local SEO, client acquisition, and the importance of personal growth as an entrepreneur. With insights into managing client expectations, balancing family life, and setting impactful goals, Shannonâs journey offers inspiration for anyone considering their entrepreneurial leap. Join the conversation to learn actionable strategies for digital growth and the mindset shifts that fuel long-term success.
Key Points From This Episode:
[00:02:01] Shannon explains the meaning behind âAcorn to Oakâ and her companyâs mission.
[00:03:45] Diving into local SEO and its importance for small businesses.
[00:04:55] Challenges and educational aspects of working with local clients.
[00:06:23] Balancing technical knowledge and client expectations in digital marketing.
[00:07:30] Shannonâs unexpected path from engineering to local SEO.
[00:08:55] Gaining experience in marketing through an early role at a global retailer.
[00:12:05] Shannonâs transition from corporate project management to starting her own business.
[00:15:22] Key strategies Shannon used to acquire her first clients, including networking.
[00:17:00] Testing cold-calling approaches and client-specific outreach techniques.
[00:20:01] The role of business networking groups like BNI in early client acquisition.
[00:22:07] Karl and Shannon discuss SEO as a long-term strategy for agency growth.
[00:23:00] Setting and checking quarterly goals for business progress.
[00:24:55] Managing time and prioritizing tasks to balance client work and business growth.
[00:27:10] Navigating challenges with partnerships and maintaining high standards.
[00:30:55] Client relationships and challenges of scaling service delivery.
[00:33:05] Hiring specialists and setting up a supportive team structure.
[00:35:40] Shannon's approach to finding talent and balancing cost and quality.
[00:38:47] Potential and challenges in hiring sales and delivery roles overseas.
[00:41:15] Reflections on entrepreneurship, family, and balancing roles.
[00:43:45] The mindset shift from employee to business owner.
[00:46:16] The importance of continuous learning and seeking mentors.
[00:47:54] Karl and Shannon discuss influential books and ongoing learning as entrepreneurs.
[00:51:15] Shannonâs one-year vision for Acorn to Oak, focusing on growth and client relationships.
Links:
Shannon Beasley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonpbeasley/Acorn to Oak: https://www.acorntooakstrategies.com/Karl Hughes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karllhughesProduction and editing by The Podcast Consultant: https://thepodcastconsultant.com
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In this episode of Retained Trust, host Karl Hughes sits down with Sunny Shah, founder of SunnyCreators, a digital marketing and personal branding agency. At just 28, Sunny has built his name in Chicagoâs entrepreneurship and creator space through authentic community-building efforts like his Chicago Dinner Club. The conversation explores Sunnyâs path from academia and entrepreneurship education to leading a personal branding agency, highlighting his passion for social media, psychology, and marketing. Sunny shares practical insights on scaling personal brands on LinkedIn, the power of organic networking, and the challenges and joys of entrepreneurship. Listen in as they delve into the emotional side of building a business, scaling efforts, and finding a balance between passion and profitability.
Key Points From This Episode:
[00:00:57] Introduction of Sunny Shah and SunnyCreators
[00:02:04] Sunnyâs early attraction to entrepreneurship and community building
[00:03:52] Journey into starting a digital marketing agency and building SunnyCreators
[00:04:58] Sunnyâs approach to social media marketing, short-form videos, and personal branding
[00:08:00] Building community through Chicago Dinner Club and networking
[00:09:56] Transition from teaching entrepreneurship to starting an agency
[00:12:04] Lessons from landing clients and developing personal branding strategies
[00:22:58] Viral success on TikTok and Instagram and what it takes to replicate it
[00:36:01] Why personal branding on LinkedIn is key for business leaders
[00:42:00] Sunnyâs leap into Full-time Entrepreneurship and handling uncertainty
Links:
Sunny Shah on LinkenIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunnyshahflow Sunny Creators: https://sunnyteams.com/Karl Hughes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karllhughesProduction and editing by The Podcast Consultant: https://thepodcastconsultant.com
