Breakfast Leadership Show

Founder Friday: Business Owner But Hate Technology? Here's How To Succeed In The Modern World

 
 
 
Subscribe to our newsletter and explore insightful conversations on workplace culture, burnout, and leadership at the Breakfast Leadership Network, ranked in the top 20 globally. Join us to thrive in the modern work environment.
Please stay connected with us. Check out the Breakfast Leadership Show Podcast for more insights and valuable content. Join our podcast and get inspired by top industry leaders’ leadership lessons and success stories.

Wednesday Wisdom: Achieving Sustainable Growth in Your Business

In today’s episode, we explore the essential steps for achieving sustainable growth in your business. Sustainable development isn’t just about increasing revenue or expanding your customer base—it’s about building a resilient, scalable business that thrives in evolving markets while staying true to its core values. Join us as we delve into the key strategies for long-term success.
 
Focus on a Strong Foundation
The first step toward sustainable growth is laying a solid foundation. This includes setting clear business goals, defining your mission, and ensuring your core values guide your operations. Strong leadership and a dedicated team aligned with your vision are essential. We also discuss the importance of investing in areas like technology, infrastructure, and employee development—these investments may take time to pay off but are crucial for building a stable base that can withstand market changes.
 
Develop a Clear Growth Strategy
Sustainable growth requires a clear, strategic approach. In this section, we discuss how to define your growth objectives—whether it’s expanding into new markets, diversifying your products, or boosting customer acquisition. A well-thought-out plan with both short- and long-term goals helps you manage growth systematically, ensuring your business expands in a sustainable way. We also cover the resources you’ll need to execute your strategy, including financial investments and human capital.
 
Foster Strong Partnerships
Collaboration is a game-changer for sustainable growth. We highlight the importance of forming strategic external partnerships to unlock new opportunities and broaden your market reach. Internal collaboration is just as crucial, and we discuss how aligning different departments and engaging in Business Partner Coaching can enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
 
Prioritize Customer Satisfaction
Customer retention plays a vital role in consistent growth. We emphasize how satisfied customers contribute to long-term success through repeat business and word-of-mouth referrals. By focusing on quality, customer support, and loyalty programs, you’ll keep your customers happy and reduce the need for aggressive marketing efforts.
 
Embrace Innovation and Adaptability
Sustainable growth is rooted in innovation and adaptability. We explain how staying open to change, adopting new technologies, and refining your product offerings can help you stay competitive. Adaptability is key—businesses that can pivot when needed are more likely to weather economic downturns and seize emerging opportunities.
 
Conclusion
Achieving sustainable growth is about consistency, strategy, and adaptability. By building a strong foundation, creating clear growth strategies, fostering partnerships, prioritizing customer satisfaction, and embracing innovation, your business can thrive over the long term. Remember, sustainable growth is not about rapid expansion—it’s about steady, resilient progress that benefits both your business and your customers. 
 
Tune in to hear more about how to scale your business responsibly and position it for long-term success!
 
Subscribe to our newsletter and explore insightful conversations on workplace culture, burnout, and leadership at the Breakfast Leadership Network, ranked in the top 20 globally. Join us to thrive in the modern work environment.
Please stay connected with us. Check out the Breakfast Leadership Show Podcast for more insights and valuable content. Join our podcast and get inspired by top industry leaders’ leadership lessons and success stories.

Jim Schleckser on maximizing CEO Potential: Peer Groups, Constraints, and Effective Leadership Strategies

Jim Schleckser is an accomplished leader, entrepreneur, and CEO coach with extensive experience across diverse industries. He is the Founder & CEO of The CEO Project, a renowned executive coaching company specializing in high-revenue entrepreneurs. Jim offers a distinctive CEO coaching program that combines peer group discussions with personalized one-on-one coaching sessions led by former CEOs.
He advocates for the "Lazy CEO," emphasizing efficient delegation and time management as essential traits for successful leadership. Jim employs diagnostic and strategic tools to identify business constraints and provide tailored advice to CEOs and offers a curated advisory board, providing CEOs with unbiased and valuable guidance.
Jim hosts The Lazy CEO Podcast, a successful podcast that focuses on entrepreneurship and CEO leadership and provides valuable insights to a wide audience. He is also the author of two impactful books: "Great CEOs are Lazy" and "Professional Drinking: A Spirited Guide to Wine, Cocktails and Confident Business Entertaining."https://theceoproject.com/https://www.facebook.com/IncCEOprojecthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jimschleckser/https://www.instagram.com/the_ceoproject?igsh=djEyOGwxb3Y4NWZ2https://www.tiktok.com/@theceoproject?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pchttps://X.com/the_ceo_project
Building High-Performing CEO Peer Groups
Jim discussed his work as a CEO advisor, focusing on building CEO peer groups or advisory boards. He emphasized the importance of surrounding oneself with high-performing individuals with humility and a desire to help others succeed. Jim shared his experience transforming companies from 7 million to 65 million dollars in revenue and how his work has positively impacted many people. Michael agreed with Jim's approach, highlighting the power of directed effort and the importance of focusing on what truly moves the needle forward. He also noted the potential pitfalls of overloading one's day and the benefits of a more streamlined approach.
 
 
Focus, Concentration, and Business Constraints
Michael and Jim discussed the importance of focus and concentration in achieving business objectives. Jim emphasized the concept of the "point of constraint" in business, which is a limiting factor that hinders growth and revenue. He suggested that identifying and addressing this constraint is crucial for success. They also discussed periodically reassessing and adjusting the focus to maintain growth. The conversation was inspired by the work of Israeli physicist Eli Goldrat and his book "The Goal".
 
 
Balancing Decisions, Comfort With 'No', and Adaptation
Jim and Michael discussed the importance of making tough decisions and being comfortable saying 'no'.'They agreed that it's not about what you say 'yes' to, but what you say 'no' to that defines you. They also touched on the need for a balance between optimism and realism and the ability to pivot in response to unexpected events. The conversation ended with a discussion on the role of CEOs in managing multiple tasks and adapting to changing circumstances.
 
 
Balancing Work and Personal Life as a CEO
Michael and Jim discussed the importance of managing energy and staying committed as a CEO. They agreed that occasional imbalances in work and personal life can be beneficial for achieving specific goals, but maintaining a balance is crucial for overall well-being. They also touched on being prepared to sprint when necessary by maintaining a certain level of energy and capacity. Michael emphasized the idea of being a 'lazy CEO' who works efficiently and effectively rather than overworking. Jim agreed, suggesting that working at an efficient 75-80% capacity allows for the necessary energy reserves to tackle challenges when they arise.
 
 
Stakeholder Involvement and Decision-Making Strategies
Michael and Jim discussed the importance of involving stakeholders in decision-making processes, using an example of a potential acquisition. They emphasized considering all stakeholders' needs, including clients and healthcare professionals. They shared their experiences with the consequences of excluding key stakeholders. Jim highlighted the need for income diversification and an understanding of the auto sector's cyclical nature. They also discussed understanding why customers buy from their organization, whether for speed, service, or pricing. Michael shared increasing productivity by 20% through process streamlining. Jim agreed on the importance of CEO clarity and vision for better decision-making, suggesting working fewer hours could lead to more clarity.
 
 
Leadership Qualities and the Great Resignation
Jim and Michael discussed the importance of humility and openness in leadership, emphasizing the need for leaders to be approachable and admit when they're wrong. They shared personal experiences and stories from other leaders to illustrate these points. They also discussed the qualities required for effective leadership, including a balance between confidence, expertise, humility, and the ability to read and resonate with the audience. They concluded that a leader should be competent yet compassionate to create a positive work environment.  
 

Founder Friday: 5 Steps To Choosing The Right Lawyer

When you need legal help, finding the right lawyer can be daunting. In this episode, we share vital tips to help you make an informed choice.  
What You’ll Learn:
- Specialized Expertise: Why it’s often beneficial to seek a lawyer specializing in your type of case, from estate planning to criminal defense or real estate.- Recommendations Matter: How asking family and friends for lawyer referrals can lead to trustworthy connections and prioritize your case.Online Research Tips: Learn how to check a lawyer’s reputation, including the importance of positive testimonials, reviews, and an active online presence.- Understanding Fees: Tips on navigating different fee structures, including flat fees, hourly rates, and contingency options.- Availability: Why a lawyer’s schedule matters and when it might be worth waiting for a high-demand professional.
Tune in to ensure you choose a lawyer who meets your specific needs and budget while offering the expertise and availability required for your case.
Subscribe to our newsletter and explore insightful conversations on workplace culture, burnout, and leadership at the Breakfast Leadership Network, ranked in the top 20 globally. Join us to thrive in the modern work environment.
Please stay connected with us. Check out the Breakfast Leadership Show Podcast for more insights and valuable content. Join our podcast and get inspired by top industry leaders’ leadership lessons and success stories.

Wednesday Wisdom: Building a Strong Brand for Long-Term Success

In today's competitive landscape, strategic branding is essential for business success. It goes beyond creating a logo or selecting colors—it’s about shaping how your audience perceives your company. In this episode, we explore how a well-crafted brand fosters trust, loyalty, and growth, establishing your organization as a leader in the market.
The Importance of Consistency in Branding 
Consistency is critical to building strong customer relationships. When your design, messaging, and tone are uniform across all platforms—websites, social media, and printed materials—you create recognition and familiarity. A consistent brand identity makes your company more accessible, trustworthy, and reliable, encouraging customer loyalty.
Customization and Differentiation Through Business Cards 
In a crowded market, standing out is crucial. Personalized business cards can make a big impression, showcasing your attention to detail and professionalism. Whether it's a unique shape or premium materials, a custom-designed business card helps you stand out. Partnering with professional printing services ensures your brand’s identity is perfectly captured, leaving a lasting impact on your audience.
Visibility Through Effective Signage 
Effective signage is vital to make your brand visible and memorable. Whether it’s a banner, storefront sign, or billboard, high-quality signage communicates your brand’s message even in your absence. It grabs attention, showcases your professionalism, and helps potential customers engage with your business.
The Role of High-Quality Brand Representation 
Quality matters in every aspect of your brand. High-quality printed materials, promotional items, and brochures reflect the care and professionalism you bring to your business. Poor-quality marketing materials can harm your reputation, while premium items signal reliability, trust, and attention to detail.
 
Building Leadership in the Market 
Strong branding positions your company as an industry leader. When your brand consistently projects a professional image, it establishes your authority in the market. By staying on top of trends and maintaining a solid brand, your company builds trust and attracts more customers, ultimately giving you a competitive edge.
The Long-Term Impact of Strategic Branding 
Branding is a long-term investment that pays dividends. A strong brand grows with your organization, fostering loyalty, recognition, and sustained success. As your brand becomes synonymous with trust and quality, it drives customer retention, expands market share, and solidifies your position as a market leader.
 
Conclusion: The Power of Strategic Branding 
Branding is more than design—it’s about communicating who you are and what you stand for. Consistency, customization, quality, and visibility contribute to building a brand that drives growth and leadership. Invest in your brand today to lay the foundation for success tomorrow.
Subscribe to our newsletter and explore insightful conversations on workplace culture, burnout, and leadership at the Breakfast Leadership Network, ranked in the top 20 globally. Join us to thrive in the modern work environment.
Please stay connected with us. Check out the Breakfast Leadership Show Podcast for more insights and valuable content. Join our podcast and get inspired by top industry leaders’ leadership lessons and success stories.

How To Maximize Your Lifestyle Dreams: With Paul Gowder

Let’s Help Your Guests Build Their Dream Lifestyle!I’m Paul Gowder, the founder of PowWows.com, an online community celebrating Native American arts and culture for 25 years. I also coach business owners by helping them build engaged online communities.I built PowWows.com into a successful business while working full-time. My goal was to create a lifestyle of traveling for my family, like traveling to Disney World more than 42 times.Yeah, that kind of magic entrepreneurship has brought into my life!Topics include:Overcoming Obstacles while Working Full Time: I reveal how to manage time like a pro, even with a demanding day job. Plus, we can uncover the secrets of discipline, perseverance, and goal-setting for long-term success.Community Building: Let's talk about the sheer power of cultivating a supportive community. We explore innovative ways to leverage social media platforms and collaborations to build an engaged and buzzing audience.Email Marketing: Do you ever wonder how email marketing can be a game-changer for community building, increasing traffic, and driving sales? I share what I send, how I segment, and how I grow my list.You can find more information about me and my business on my website - www.paulgowder.com.
Website Building, Maintenance, and Coaching Discussion
Michael and Paul discussed building and maintaining the Powerless website, which offers services and connection points globally. Michael expressed interest in learning more about the website's one-on-one coaching aspect. They also touched on the challenges of connecting with different regions, particularly in the United States, where there are 50 states with diverse practices. The conversation was briefly interrupted due to technical issues with Michael's internet connection.
Building the Powwows Website and Community Growth
Michael and Paul discussed Paul's experience in building the Powwows website. Paul shared that he initially started the website as a personal project while in graduate school, learning about powwows and teaching himself HTML and PHP coding. The website grew as the community expanded, with people asking for information on powwows in different states. Paul's role in state government shifted from a planner to an IT project manager and development manager as he gained more knowledge in web development.
Community, Connection, and Career Growth
Michael and Paul discussed the importance of community and connection in a world driven by social media. Paul shared his journey from a passion project to a career, highlighting the twists and turns that led him to his current role. Michael emphasized the role of community in ensuring growth and thriving, using the success of a site as an example. The conversation then shifted to Paul's recent involvement in one-on-one coaching, with Michael asking for insights into what Paul is helping people with.
Addressing Algorithm Changes and Email Marketing
Paul and Michael discussed the challenges businesses face due to changes in search engine algorithms and social media platforms. They emphasized the importance of community building and the role of email marketing in connecting with customers. Michael expressed frustration with companies that don't engage with customers during such changes. At the same time, Paul suggested that email marketing could be a powerful tool for building community and serving customers better. They also discussed the risks of relying solely on social media platforms, suggesting using email communities or community apps as alternatives. Paul shared his group's experience with Facebook's new rule against selling animal parts, which has affected their Facebook group's operations. Both agreed on the importance of diversifying communication channels to avoid relying too much on one platform.
Adapting to Technological Advancements in Business
Michael and Paul discussed the importance of community building and direct messaging in the online world, emphasizing the need for businesses to adapt to the constantly shifting landscape due to AI and other technological advancements. They agreed that relying solely on platforms like Google and Facebook is risky and that businesses need to learn how to use tools like email, text messaging, and other direct messaging platforms in a conversational and personal manner to engage with their audience. Paul also shared his excitement about upcoming events and offered his services for business growth.

Founder Friday: Proven Techniques to Communicate with Confidence and Engage Any Audience

This episode explores essential presentation techniques that empower business leaders to communicate confidently and engage audiences effectively. From mastering voice control and body language to structuring your message with clarity, learn how to overcome presentation anxiety and make a lasting impact in any setting. With expert tips on defining your purpose, structuring your content, and using grounding techniques, this guide offers a clear path to presenting like a pro.
Whether you deliver a boardroom briefing, pitch to investors, or lead a keynote, these practical skills and insights will elevate your approach. Tune in to discover how to practice in realistic settings, engage your audience with intentional interactions, and wrap up with a robust and memorable conclusion. Get ready to transform your presentations from ordinary to impactful, one step at a time.
Subscribe to our newsletter and explore insightful conversations on workplace culture, burnout, and leadership at the Breakfast Leadership Network, ranked in the top 20 globally. Join us to thrive in the modern work environment.
Please stay connected with us. Check out the Breakfast Leadership Show Podcast for more insights and valuable content. Join our podcast and get inspired by top industry leaders’ leadership lessons and success stories.

Transforming Workplace Culture with Gratitude

Expressing gratitude in the workplace is more than just a kind gesture. It's a powerful tool that can transform your business and staff culture. A simple thank you goes a long way in making employees feel valued and recognized for their efforts, boosting morale and motivating them to do even better.When leaders acknowledge employee contributions, it fosters a sense of accomplishment, encouraging continued hard work and personal growth. This creates an environment where employees feel seen for their unique talents, which, in turn, inspires greatness and drives professional development.Gratitude also plays a vital role in cultivating a positive work culture. When employees know their efforts are appreciated, it nurtures a sense of belonging and camaraderie among team members. A supportive, appreciative workplace reduces stress and anxiety, improving collaboration and job satisfaction.This positive atmosphere attracts top talent and retains employees who value a workplace that prioritizes recognition and support, setting your business apart in a competitive market. Gratitude is essential for boosting employee engagement and ensuring long-term organizational success.When leaders express consistent appreciation, employees feel more connected to their roles and the company's mission. Engaged employees are likely to show creativity, put in extra effort, and contribute to innovation, leading to higher productivity and a more committed workforce.Gratitude fosters engagement, which is critical for a thriving, high-performance organization. High morale is a direct result of expressing gratitude. When employees feel appreciated, they become more motivated and enthusiastic about their tasks, spreading positive energy across the team.This leads to more vital collaboration, improved performance, and a deeper bond among team members. Additionally, showing gratitude isn't limited to verbal expressions. Personal touches, such as handwritten notes or tailored messages, can leave a lasting impression, making employees feel exceptionally valued. These small gestures reinforce the idea that every team member plays a vital role in the organization's success.