Afleveringen
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In this episode of The Queen of Automation, host Megan dives into an energetic, no-holds-barred conversation with Cory Falter, partner at Lure Agency and president of HSMAI San Diego. Cory shares how he and his team are shaking up the stagnant hospitality industry by helping independent hotels and hospitality vendors move away from a broken, reactive sales culture and into a more proactive, profitable approach.
The discussion highlights how Lure Agency specializes in B2B marketing for independent hotels, steering them away from overreliance on third-party platforms like Booking.com and Expedia that siphon off up to 30% of revenue per booking. Cory breaks down how the hospitality sector, battered by the COVID shutdowns but still largely stuck in old-school habits, needs to stop depending on external lead sources and start driving direct business. He stresses that the industryâs addiction to intermediaries not only eats away at profitability but also directly lowers property valuations when hotels go to sell.
Megan and Cory also unpack the severe consequences of poor digital customer experiences, using personal anecdotes to illustrate how big brands have allowed user frustration to become the norm. Cory points out that while revenge travel temporarily masked systemic problems, the hospitality space is about to get blindsided by generative AI, and those who don't adapt will lose out fast.
Boutique and independent hotels are positioned to win because they can act quickly and build personalized, human-first experiences both online and offline, something bureaucratic giants like Marriott and Hilton canât keep up with. Cory emphasizes that hotels must stop commoditizing themselves through faceless RFP processes and impersonal booking funnels and instead craft emotional, meaningful connections from the very first touchpoint.
He offers Parker Palm Springs as a rare success story: a boutique hotel whose online experience fully aligns with its in-person brand, creating a cohesive and magnetic guest journey. Finally, Cory introduces Lure Agencyâs new âBreakoutsâ program, designed to teach hotel sales teams and vendors how to build direct, relationship-driven revenue pipelines that put them back in control of their growth.
This episode is a masterclass in why standing still is no longer an option in hospitality, and how the ones who embrace digital transformation, automation, and brand experience will own the future.
Connect with Cory on LinkedIn to learn more about how you can drive direct revenue, reclaim your brand experience, and future-proof your hospitality business.
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In this episode of The Queen of Automation, I sat down with Phyllis Winters, an AI and automation strategist with a deep background in systems thinking and real-world implementation. Sheâs worked across industries, from manufacturing to digital agencies, helping fast-moving businesses create operational clarity with technology that actually supports their growth.
Phyllis brings a rare combo to the table: strategic thinking thatâs grounded in business logic, and the technical know-how to make automation work without losing the human experience. We talked about what really goes wrong when founders rush into tech without a clear understanding of their customer journey, and how automation, when done wrong, just makes broken processes run faster.
This conversation cuts through the hype. We explored why user experience must come before workflow mapping, how AI can truly support lean teams, and why building a system that works for you, not just your software, is the key to digital transformation that doesnât backfire.
Phyllis knows how to take messy, overcomplicated backends and turn them into systems that feel intuitive, for you and your clients. If youâve been duct-taping your tech together and calling it a process, this oneâs going to hit home.
Connect with Phyllis on LinkedIn and see how sheâs helping businesses bring strategy back into systems.
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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In this episode of The Queen of Automation, I sat down with Megan Juliano, founder of Digi Staffing Solutions and the definition of building a personal brand that actually works. We talked about what it really takes to run a lean, high-performing recruiting business that doesnât just rely on hustle, but runs on intention and systems that make sense.
Megan shared how she went from corporate tech recruiting to building her own firm, focused on go-to-market talent, and how she flipped the typical ârecruiter spamâ narrative on LinkedIn by showing up with bold, direct, no-fluff content that gets results. She's not interested in being just another recruiter in someoneâs inbox, sheâs built a brand that attracts the right people and makes them want to work with her.
We also got into the myth of work-life balance (spoiler: neither of us believe in it), how she structures her day to protect her energy, and why she treats her content like a non-negotiable business system, not an afterthought. From her client pipeline to her tech stack, Megan runs a solo business with the precision of a well-oiled machine, but she does it in a way that still feels fully aligned with how she wants to live.
And yes, I tried to convince her to launch a newsletter, because the way she thinks, writes, and builds relationships is too good not to scale.
This episode is all about building smarter, not just bigger, using systems that give you time back, and a brand that keeps working even when youâre not logged in.
Connect with Megan on LinkedIn and follow her journey, sheâs the kind of recruiter rewriting the rulebook.
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In this episode of The Queen of Automation, host Megan Donnelly welcomes Nathan from Kodiak Consulting, a fellow member of the Brand Built community and a powerhouse in helping entrepreneurs lay unshakable business foundations. They dig into the truth about building a business that doesnât just grow, it thrives sustainably. Nathan unpacks how he partners with founders to clarify direction, simplify operations, and create systems rooted in intention, not overwhelm. Rather than talking at clients, heâs known for his ability to co-create with them, bringing warmth, clarity, and a deep sense of support to what can often feel like a chaotic journey.
The conversation smashes the outdated myth of "work-life balance," replacing it with a mindset focused on lifestyle design and time management. Nathan emphasizes building a business that fits your life, not the other way around. They also explore the psychology behind motivation vs. inspiration, reframing motivation as a strategic external force that sparks internal purpose. Megan and Nathan discuss how automation, technology, and even mindset work best when rooted in systems, and how systems arenât about tools, theyâre about repeatable habits built on clear processes. A business doesnât need to run on 18-step automations to be successful, it needs clarity of outcome and alignment with how the owner actually wants to live.
Nathan introduces the idea of mind shift, a more powerful evolution of mindset, where instead of just âthinking bigger,â entrepreneurs shift their mental framework toward tangible goals and actionable systems. He also delivers an absolute masterclass in analogies (yes, the biscuit and gravy one is a gem), and shares practical wisdom around SOPs, over-processing, and why most business owners actually know their systems are broken but donât know how to fix them.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone whoâs ready to simplify their tech, streamline their business habits, and finally design a business that doesnât burn them out.
Connect with Nathan on LinkedIn to learn more about his upcoming YouTube channel, foundational business strategy work, and how you can work with him one-on-one to design systems that actually serve your lifestyle.
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On this episode of The Queen of Automation, I sat down with Mark Bentcover, Agile strategist, Lean systems expert, and the brain behind Creative Kraken. We had the kind of conversation that cuts through the noise and gets to the real stuff: how to actually make tech and systems work for you, not the other way around.
Markâs background is deep, IBM, Boeing, decades of program management, but what makes him brilliant is how he brings creative energy into operations.
We talked about the myth of work-life balance, why most people are using tech backwards, and how to align your business around a purpose that actually matters.
We also went deep on agile thinking (for life and business), the obsession with automation for automationâs sake, and how to stop wasting time on tools that donât move the needle. If youâre building, scaling, or just trying to make your systems feel less chaotic, this oneâs going to hit.
Connect with Mark on LinkedIn if youâre ready to think differently about operations, creativity, and how to run your business like it was built on purpose.
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In this episode of The Queen of Automation, I sit down with PJ Valentini to explore how discipline, adaptability, and creativity have shaped his unconventional journey from martial arts instructor to sales professional at IDN Directory. With a background in teaching karate for 15 years and a third-degree black belt, PJ realized running a martial arts studio wasnât his path. Instead, he reinvented himself as a front-end developer, but a family health crisis brought him to Tennessee, where he unexpectedly pivoted into sales.
Encouraged by his sales team and his mother, PJ embraced the challenge of sales. What began as an experiment turned into a successful five-year journey, where he now promotes IDN Directory, a SaaS tool that helps healthcare suppliers connect with decision-makers at Integrated Delivery Networks (IDNs). His mission is to streamline supply chains by connecting top vendors with healthcare leaders through powerful, targeted solutions.
Despite describing his work as a âfaceless mission,â PJ understands that building a personal brand is essential for credibility in todayâs digital world. His relentless discipline, rooted in his martial arts training, drives his approach to sales, from setting personal boundaries to constantly learning from mentors, even if it means cringing over LinkedIn posts at 3 AM.
PJâs journey highlights that success comes from discipline, adaptability, and authenticity. His focus on building relationships and refining his approach to reach the right customers shows his dedication to growth. Connect with PJ to discover how the IDN Directory can help you make powerful connections in the healthcare industry.
Find him on LinkedIn under PJ Valentini or reach out directly at [email protected].
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In this episode of The Queen of Automation, Meghan Donnelly sits down with Kevin Hodgkins to talk about automation, marketing, and why so many business owners are making things harder than they need to be.
Kevin shares how he structures his time to protect creativity and deep work, making sure his business isnât consumed by meetings, admin tasks, and unnecessary complexity. Running a company from Prince Edward Islandâwhat he jokingly calls District 13 from The Hunger Gamesâheâs built a business that doesnât rely on constant availability but instead runs on systems that let him scale without burning out.
The conversation dives deep into sales and marketing, where Kevin pulls apart the idea that more tactics equal better results. He explains why YouTube ads are the future of visibility, how most sales funnels are too complicated to convert, and why the words you use in your messaging matter more than the strategies you follow. He also explores the psychology of buying decisions, breaking down why pain-driven messaging moves people to action while most marketing just gets ignored.
This episode is a candid, unfiltered look at automation, growth, and the difference between working efficiently and just working more.
Find him on LinkedIn, thatâs where he shares his insights on automation, sales, and marketing strategy. If youâre serious about creating systems that actually scale, heâs someone you want in your network.
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Join me in this episode of The Queen of Automation, where we tear down the myths and fears surrounding financial planning and wealth management. No financial jargon, no judgmentâjust a raw, unfiltered conversation with wealth strategist James Mayer, who helps people take control of their money and build a financial future that actually fits their life.
James doesnât just talk numbersâhe makes finance relatable, strategic, and actionable. We dive deep into the psychology of money, why most people avoid dealing with their finances, and how automation can make saving and investing effortless.
And hereâs the reality check: financial planning isnât just about retirementâitâs about making smart money moves right now, so you donât wake up years from now wondering where all your time and income went. James shares how he helps people get past the fear, prioritize what truly matters, and ditch the guilt and confusion that keep them stuck.
We also challenge the idea of work-life balance and why your finances and your business need to be in sync. This isnât about cutting every luxuryâitâs about making sure your money supports the life you actually want.
James is all about practical, no-fluff financial strategies, and in this episode, we break down:
Why most people overcomplicate financial planningâand how to simplify itHow automation can help you build wealth with less effortThe biggest financial mistakes entrepreneurs make (and how to avoid them)Why âkeeping up with the Jonesesâ is a trap that destroys financial securityHow to set financial goals that actually support your lifestyle, not just arbitrary revenue targetsJames is the financial expert you didnât know you needed, and heâs sharing the exact strategies to help you stop stressing about money and start making it work for you.
Connect with James on LinkedIn, because thatâs where the best financial conversations are happening.
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Join me in this Queen of Automation episode where we tear down the myths of social selling, work-life balance, and the messy reality of running a business on your own terms. No fluff, no corporate jargon, just an unfiltered conversation with LinkedIn powerhouse Natasha Walstra, who built a thriving business without a website, a polished brand, or a massive audience. Just smart, strategic moves.
And hereâs the kicker, she did all of this while becoming a first-time mom. Imagine launching a business and suddenly being responsible for keeping a tiny human alive. Chaos? Definitely. Possible? Absolutely.
We dive deep into why most people overcomplicate LinkedIn and make it weird when it should be the most natural networking platform out there. Natasha breaks down how she turned connection-building into a revenue-generating machine, without ever feeling like she was âselling.â We also get into why âwork-life balanceâ is a joke, and how real success comes from work-life integration, designing your business around the life you actually want, instead of burning out trying to juggle everything separately.
Natasha is in the middle of a major shift, moving from one-on-one coaching to landing high-value corporate contracts and figuring out how to scale without sacrificing time with her son. Sheâs sharing whatâs working, whatâs not, and how sheâs thinking about the next phase of her business. This is the kind of raw, real-time conversation that most people donât talk about, but they should.
Connect with Natasha on LinkedInâbecause thatâs where sheâs making things happen.
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Alright, letâs cut to the chaseâcannabis marketing is a mess. Itâs full of outdated systems, ridiculous red tape, and business owners who are so obsessed with getting new customers that they completely ignore the ones they already have.
Thatâs exactly why I brought Steph Vrona on the show today. Sheâs the founder of HighDef Studio, and sheâs single-handedly shifting the way cannabis brands think about retention marketing.
We got into why dispensaries are constantly struggling despite raking in millions, why most cannabis loyalty programs are absolute trash, and how the industry keeps getting in its own way by refusing to embrace marketing operations. Steph is out here preaching the gospel of keeping your damn customers happy, and sheâs got the data to back it up.
Of course, we didnât stop there. We also got real about entrepreneurship, ADHD, and the absolute BS of âwork-life balance.â Steph and I both know that being an entrepreneur isnât about clocking in and outâitâs about building a business that actually works for you. We talked about automation, delegation, and why the smartest thing you can do is stop doing everything yourself. If youâve ever found yourself drowning in tasks you hate instead of running your business like a boss, you need to hear this episode.
Steph doesnât sugarcoat anything, and neither do I. If youâre tired of hearing the same old business advice and actually want to make more money without burning yourself out, hit play and take some notes.
Connect with Steph Vronađ LinkedIn: Steph Vrona
đ Website: HighDef Studio
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Join me as I chat with Danny DelVecchio, the mastermind behind helping entrepreneurs create video content without overcomplicating it. Danny shares how he went from podcasting back in 2014 to becoming one of LinkedInâs top video creators, proving that you donât need fancy equipment to make an impact, just your phone, decent lighting, and a solid mic.
We dive into the reality of entrepreneurship, and Danny doesnât hold back. Work-life balance? He calls it bullshit and encourages building a life where work fits seamlessly into what you love. We also get real about the risks of relying too much on social media platforms and how Danny safeguards his business with email lists and YouTube, because letâs be honest, no one wants to be at the mercy of an algorithm.
Danny breaks down his simple approach to video production that anyone can use: record casual conversations where a friend asks you questions, then edit them out for a natural, authentic vibe. No scripts, no pressure, just you showing up as you are.
We also talk about automation (of course), and Danny shares how heâs built a system that eliminates bottlenecks by giving clients direct access to editors. Itâs a game-changer that saves time, reduces stress, and lets founders focus on what they do best.
If youâve been overthinking your video strategy or drowning in the day-to-day of running a business, this episode is for you. Dannyâs insights on video, automation, and keeping things simple are exactly what every busy entrepreneur needs to hear.
Connect with Danny DelVecchio:
LinkedIn: Danny DelVecchioYouTube: Danny DelVecchioâs ChannelWebsite: www.dannyvideos.comConnect with Danny for more tips on video marketing, automation, and building a business that works for you!
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In this episode, I sat down with Ryan R. Sullivan, a podcast strategist, musician, and entrepreneur whoâs making waves by helping businesses turn podcasts into powerful tools for growth. We explored the realities of podcasting, automation, and systems, breaking down why building a strategy is crucial for success. Ryan shared his journey of trial and error, offering real, honest insights into how heâs learned to connect creativity with strategy to generate results. His approach is a refreshing reminder that success isnât about doing moreâitâs about doing the right things in a repeatable way.
We also talked about what it really means to create a business that fits your life. Ryan and I both believe that work-life balance is a myth for entrepreneursâitâs all about harmony. Itâs not about separating work from life but integrating everything you love into one cohesive flow. Ryanâs perspective on aligning your business with your passions hit home for me, and his insights on how to use systems and automation to reclaim your time are nothing short of game-changing.
What stood out most is Ryanâs ability to simplify complex problems. From podcasting to operations, his approach is rooted in strategy and intentionality, with no fluff or unnecessary shortcuts. Heâs all about solving the right problems in the smartest way possible, whether that means automating tasks, bringing in the right people, or streamlining systems. The energy and expertise he brings to the conversation are a testament to his dedication to helping others win.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to scale their business while staying true to their values. Whether youâre curious about podcasting, struggling with systems, or simply looking for a fresh perspective on entrepreneurship, Ryanâs advice will inspire you to think bigger and act smarter.
Where to Find Ryan
LinkedIn: Ryan R. SullivanPodcast: The Ryan Sullivan ShowYouTube: Ryan R. Sullivan ChannelWebsite: RyanRSullivan.com
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Join me as I chat with the brilliant Karen Grill, a business coach with a knack for email deliverability. Karen shares her fascinating journey into this crucial area, highlighting how her clients' struggles with ever-evolving technology led her to focus on helping businesses navigate these challenges. With Google's significant changes to email systems last year, Karen provides insights on why staying informed and having experts to guide you through tech hurdles is essential. Together, we also explore the concept of work-life balance and discuss how to create a harmonious blend of business and personal life.
Listen in as Karen and I offer practical advice for troubleshooting email deliverability issues before reaching out for external help. We cover the importance of monitoring email metrics to spot potential problems, like declining open rates due to changes from providers like Google and Yahoo. Additionally, we touch on the unique challenges of emailing large corporations with strict spam filters and firewalls, sharing tips like simplifying email signatures to avoid triggering these barriers. Our conversation is packed with personal anecdotes and expert strategies to enhance your email deliverability and ensure your messages reach their intended recipients.
We also explore the art of email list management and deliverability, with Karen providing valuable tips on crafting subject lines that bypass spam filters and engage your audience. The discussion emphasizes the need for regular list cleaning, segmenting, and understanding sender reputation. Karen shares insights on managing both new and established domains, highlighting the importance of patience and strategic planning. Wrapping up, we underline the significance of having a skilled expert who can anticipate and address technology challenges, ensuring your systems function seamlessly and effectively.
Connect with Karen Grill on LinkedIn to master email deliverability, avoid the spam folder, and get your emails actually opened.
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What if navigating the world of health insurance for the self-employed wasn't a nightmare, but an empowering journey? Join me, as I sit down with Mitchell Underwood, a health insurance consultant who champions a client-first approach. Discover how Mitchell's innovative methods can transform the intimidating process of finding affordable health insurance into a seamless experience tailored to your unique life goals. By focusing on personal branding and genuine, consultative advice, Mitchell stands apart from the traditional, commission-driven tactics of the industry, offering solopreneurs and contractors solutions that truly advocate for their best interests.
In our conversation, we explore the pivotal role of building authentic connections, particularly through LinkedIn networking, and how these relationships can enrich your business and personal life. We share personal stories that highlight the transformative power of trust and authenticity in business interactions. Learn about the importance of developing offline connections through newsletters and the challenges faced during health insurance open enrollment. Armed with Mitchell's insights and strategies, you'll be better equipped to navigate employer-based options and insurance terminology with confidence, allowing you to focus on building a lifestyle that supports your entrepreneurial journey.
Connect with Mitchell on LinkedIn to simplify health insurance for solopreneurs. With his client-first approach, tailored solutions, and focus on authenticity, heâll help you navigate your options with confidence.
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Join me for an engaging episode as I sit down with Tom Harman, a passionate mental health advocate for men, broadcasting from the chilly climate of Kitchener, Ontario. Together, we explore Tom's professional journey from his long-standing career in selling appliances to major national retailers to his fervent pursuit of turning his advocacy for mental health into a meaningful business.
Tom shares candid insights about the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship and teases an exciting personal update that hints at a positive start to the new year. Our conversation offers an inspiring glimpse into resilience and the quest for purpose. Listen in as we navigate the transition from hobby to business through the power of personal branding and mental health support.
We challenge the fluffy reputation of mindset transformation by emphasizing its critical role in overcoming mental blocks and normalizing emotions. The episode also highlights the unique approach of integrating personal branding with mental health awareness, encouraging authenticity in both personal and professional settings. This journey is all about embracing your true self and leveraging your experiences to build a brand that resonates. Explore the concept of breaking mental blocks with a focus on systems and processes that enhance both personal and professional life.
We address societal perceptions of gender and emotions, shedding light on the struggles men face in expressing vulnerability.
The episode offers valuable advice on managing anxiety, breaking tasks into manageable pieces, and building self-proof through small, achievable goals. By fostering human connection and vulnerability, we uncover the importance of authentic experiences in alleviating anxiety and overcoming the pressures of constant comparison.
aTune in for a refreshing perspective on balancing authenticity and data obsession in today's fast-paced world.
Connect with Tom Harman on LinkedIn to dive deeper into his journey, combining his passion for mental health advocacy with entrepreneurship. Gain insights into his unique approach to personal branding, overcoming mental blocks, and fostering vulnerability in professional settings.
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Join me as I welcome the exceptional Hugh Meyer, a finance professional who traded the bustling world of Wall Street for the sunny innovation of Los Angeles. Listen in as Hugh shares his compelling journey from a rigid institutional finance career to a more dynamic and supportive environment at Eyeline Wealth Partners. Hugh's candid insights into his experiences on Wall Street, the impact of the 2008 financial crisis, and his transition to a more technology-driven approach in serving clients will leave you inspired. Alongside professional anecdotes, Hugh opens up about managing life with three teenage boys, providing a unique blend of personal and professional wisdom.
In our engaging conversation, we explore the transformation from the high-pressure demands of Wall Street to the rewarding balance of working as an independent contractor. Hugh and I discuss the importance of prioritizing family and health over relentless work hours and share strategies like time blocking and daily routines that enhance productivity and well-being. We highlight how personal systems, whether technological or habitual, can significantly impact both business and personal life, emphasizing the power of mindset in building effective routines.
Our discussion also highlights the role of education and technology in enhancing business efficiency. We talk about the critical importance of implementing systems to handle administrative tasks, allowing more focus on client growth and needs. By sharing our personal experiences and strategies, we stress the benefits of adopting the right technological solutions to stay competitive. We wrap up with a lively chat about building relationships through humor and networking, encouraging listeners to connect with Hugh Meyer on LinkedIn and underscoring the value of technology when it functions well.
Connect with Hugh Meyer on LinkedIn to discover how he helps clients balance life and business by combining financial expertise with innovative strategies.
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John Carpenter, an esteemed recruiter with deep roots in retail and hospitality, joins me on the Queen of Automation podcast to share his one-of-a-kind approach to recruitment. John believes that the key to successful hiring is understanding candidates as individuals, not just names on a resume. Tune in as we explore his philosophy of conducting interviews as genuine conversations rather than ticking off checklists, and how this personal touch can transform the hiring process for both candidates and employers. I also share my own experiences, highlighting the art of matching personalities to roles and the pivotal role recruiters play in creating a smooth experience.
The hospitality industry is undergoing a seismic shift, and we're here to unpack it. As technology reshapes the landscape, from automated check-ins to kiosks handling tasks once managed by bartenders, new challenges and opportunities emerge. We discuss how these technological advancements are setting new expectations for work-life balance and challenging long-standing norms. Ageism in tech adoption and the rise of automation-driven hospitality models also come under the spotlight, offering insights into the evolving workforce dynamics and what they mean for recruitment strategies.
The digital age demands a strategic approach to managing online presence, and weâre diving into its complexities. The balance between leveraging technology for efficiency and maintaining vital personal interactions is crucial, especially in smaller communities. Social media's impact on recruitment, from influencing company policies on employee posts to shaping public perceptions, is another area we explore. With anecdotes and expert advice, we emphasize the need to align digital presence with company values while preserving personal freedom. Donât forget to check the show notes for contact details, and connect with us for more insights on effective business scaling.
Connect with John Carpenter on LinkedIn to learn how his unique approach to recruitment focuses on understanding candidates as individuals and transforming the hiring process into meaningful conversations.
CHAPTERS WITH TIMESTAMPS
(00:00) Recruiting Strategies and Personal Connections
(09:58) Impact of Automation on Hospitality Industry
(19:41) Importance of Managing Online Presence
(32:23) Hospitality Recruiting and Consulting Expertise
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In this heartfelt wrap-up episode, I take a moment to reflect on an incredible year of podcasting. This has been a dream of mine for a long time, and 2024 was the year it all came together. I couldnât be more excited about what weâve built and whatâs on the horizon for 2025!
This episode is all about gratitudeâfor the listeners, the guests, and everyone who has supported the podcast along the way. I also share some thoughts on the power of taking that first leap toward a big goal and how it feels to see it come to life.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Wishing you a restful, joyful holiday season and an amazing start to the new year!
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In this episode of The Queen of Automation, Meghan Donnelly sits down with Tom Clement, an experienced entrepreneur, professor, and systems thinker. Together, they explore the realities of work-life balance, the importance of building systems for small businesses, and how leveraging automation can give entrepreneurs back their most valuable resourceâtime.
Tom shares his unique journey, from owning a motorcycle dealership to teaching business strategies and working with incarcerated individuals to provide hope and reduce recidivism. The conversation covers the misconceptions of "work-life balance," the value of loyalty and humanity in the workplace, and practical steps for creating systems that simplify operations.
Key Topics Discussed:
Tomâs journey from business owner to professor.Why "work-life balance" is a myth and how to embrace a unified life.The importance of aligning your work with your life goals.The power of systems and how small businesses can build them effectively.Using automation and AI to create operational manuals and save time.The importance of fostering meaningful connections, both online and offline.CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS
(00:00) Work-Life Balance and Life Goals
(14:00) Effective Time Management Strategies
(21:13) Navigating LinkedIn and Building Relationships
(33:30) Leveraging Technology for Success
CHAPTERS WITH LONG SUMMARIES
(00:00) Work-Life Balance and Life Goals
This chapter of the Queen of Automation podcast features a conversation with Tom Clement, a seasoned business leader and educator. We explore Tom's diverse career journey from owning a motorcycle dealership to becoming a business professor, including his unique role in teaching incarcerated individuals in Arizona. The discussion centers on the concept of work-life balance, with both Tom and I expressing skepticism about the traditional notion of separating work from personal life. Instead, we advocate for integrating work and personal life into a single life plan driven by personal goals. By prioritizing life goals over conventional career paths, individuals can create a lifestyle that aligns with their personal aspirations, whether that means taking unconventional days off or making career choices that support family and personal fulfillment.
(14:00) Effective Time Management Strategies
This chapter explores the timeless principles of time management inspired by Alan Lakin, a prominent figure in the field from the 70s and 80s. I recount my experience of inviting a dean, a staunch advocate of Lakin's methods, to speak to my class on personal marketing. The session underscored two pivotal lessons: using the mantra "What's the best use of my time right now?" and maintaining an efficient inbox by promptly dealing with or discarding emails. I share my approach to managing emails through a folder system, prioritizing crucial messages while keeping distractions at bay. Emphasizing the importance of organization, I discuss how I keep my inbox clutter-free and stress the value of preserving data by never deleting emails, allowing for easy retrieval when necessary.
(21:13) Navigating LinkedIn and Building Relationships
This chapter explores the approach of using LinkedIn as a tool for genuine networking rather than focusing on metrics like impressions and reach. I discuss the importance of building a meaningful inner circle and the value of connecting with mentors and individuals who can provide guidance and insights. The conversation emphasizes the power of offering value to others, even for free, to create authentic relationships that lead to recommendations and opportunities. I share the realization of LinkedIn being an echo chamber, encouraging the pursuit of third-degree connections to...
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In this episode of The Queen of Automation, host Meghan Donnelly chats with Tom Wells, founder of Wells Virtual Bookkeeping, to uncover why accurate bookkeeping is the backbone of every successful businessâespecially for small, service-based entrepreneurs.
Tom shares his journey of growing up in a family business and how it inspired his passion for helping business owners simplify their finances. Together, Meghan and Tom explore:
The power of outsourcing bookkeeping: Why delegating tasks like bank reconciliation, accounts payable/receivable, and payroll can save you time, money, and stress.Understanding your financial metrics: How having clear insights into your finances helps avoid common pitfalls and ensures long-term stability.Flexible pricing for small businesses: Tom's innovative transaction-based pricing model that aligns services with client needs.The role of technology in financial success: Practical tips for leveraging tech to address pain points and streamline your operations.This conversation is packed with actionable insights for entrepreneurs ready to make smarter financial decisions and embrace technology to drive growth.
CHAPTERS WITH LONG SUMMARIES
(00:00) Importance of Bookkeeping in Business
This chapter brings an engaging discussion with Tom Wells from Wells Virtual Bookkeeping, highlighting the crucial role of knowing your numbers in business success. We explore the significance of accurate bookkeeping for small business owners and how outsourcing this task can alleviate common financial missteps. Tom introduces his family-run business, emphasizing their passion for assisting service-based companies across the U.S. We also discuss the importance of having a reliable team to ensure financial stability and planning, regardless of a business owner's exit strategy. Throughout, I emphasize that understanding financial metrics is essential for avoiding the entrepreneurial equivalent of living paycheck to paycheck, and how partnering with a skilled bookkeeping service like Tom's can help achieve this.
(10:44) Benefits of Outsourcing Bookkeeping Services
This chapter explores the importance of maintaining current financial information in business, comparing it to the ease of completing a puzzle with only a few missing pieces. We emphasize that staying updated is not only efficient but also cost-effective, as outdated data can lead to financial inefficiencies and inaccurate tax information. The distinction between bookkeeping and tax law is highlighted, stressing the value of hiring specialists for each area to maximize returns and ensure compliance. We discuss the advantages of outsourcing bookkeeping services, such as gaining access to comprehensive services like bank reconciliation, AP/AR management, and payroll at a fractional cost. The importance of communication with clients is underscored, noting the necessity for regular interaction to maintain financial accuracy. We also explain the unique pricing model based on transaction volume, which adjusts every 90 days to reflect the client's current needs.
(23:53) Technology Solutions for Business Success
This chapter explores our process of understanding your business by getting to know you and identifying your pain points to provide effective solutions. Megan and I discuss how our approach is centered around making technology work for you, emphasizing the importance of technology functioning properly to be beneficial. We also remind our listeners that additional information, including links to our LinkedIn profiles, will be available in the show notes for easy access. We conclude with a note of appreciation and a reminder to join us next week as we continue to help make technology work for...
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