Breakfast Leadership Show

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.

From Bankruptcy to Franchise Success: Max Emma'sJourney with BooXkeeping - A Masterclass in Navigating Financial Oversight and Seizing Market Opportunities

https://www.franchisewithmax.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxemma/The story of BooXkeeping starts with an 18-year-old Max emigrating from the former Soviet Union to the U.S., where he initially worked in corporate accounting and finance but found it deeply unfulfilling. He celebrated his "Freedom Day" from corporate America on July 3rd, 2002, when he shifted to a family-run landscape maintenance business. Despite initially growing the business to an impressive $4 million, a lack of financial oversight and the 2008 recession led to bankruptcy.“It was the greatest lesson in accounting, finance, and business ownership I could have ever received,” said Max. “Although it felt like the end of the world at the time, I knew I had to keep going and learn from my mistakes.”Max persevered, restarting with a smaller landscape maintenance business, this time outsourcing his bookkeeping to another company. He immediately noticed a significant discrepancy in how the bookkeeping industry operated. A lightbulb went off in his head.“For the same scope of work, I was seeing quotes from as low as $200 to as high as $2,000 — anyone in finance knows that means there is a big opportunity to dominate a fragmented market,” said Max. “So, we started the BooXkeeping business in our garage part-time while we ran our landscaping company to pay the bills.”Gradually, BooXkeeping became Emmas’ full-time job, and they sold their landscaping company. Although the couple divorced a few years later, they continued working together to grow the brand, driven by their passion for redefining an outdated industry and putting the client first. Today, BooXkeeping is the preferred bookkeeping vendor for over 95 franchise brands in the U.S., including companies like FastSigns, Gameday Men's Health, Sport Clips, and more.“Hanging out with franchisors gave me the idea that I could become one of them myself,” said Max. “So, I decided to franchise the BooXkeeping concept.”
Entrepreneurial Journeys and Immigrant Contributions
Michael and Max discussed their entrepreneurial journeys. Max, who immigrated from the Soviet Union, shared his experience of starting from scratch after leaving a well-paying job at Qualcomm. He initially took a significant pay cut to join a small family business, which he grew from 3 to 96 employees. Michael acknowledged the entrepreneurial spirit that drives individuals like Max to take risks and pursue new opportunities. Max also referenced the quote from the musical Hamilton, "Immigrants. We get the job done," emphasizing the role of immigrants in driving growth and innovation.
Bookkeeping Services for Small Businesses
Michael and Max discussed the benefits of their bookkeeping services for small businesses. Max explained how the idea for their business, Bookkeeping with an X, came about after they received vastly different quotes for the exact scope of work. They decided to bring technology efficiency to the market, starting in 2011. Their services are still human resource-focused but aim to automate 60-70% of the job processes. This approach allows them to keep a low price point, providing significant savings to small businesses.
Maintaining Clean Financial Records for Business
Michael discussed the importance of maintaining clean financial records for businesses. He emphasized that this is crucial not only for tax compliance and reporting but also for the ease of transitioning the company to someone else, whether through sale, winding down, or passing on to another party. He highlighted the benefits of having organized records for business valuation and potential exit scenarios. Michael also shared his personal experience of losing his mother earlier in the year, using it as an example of the importance of planning.
Financial Management in Business Operations
Michael and Max discussed the importance of financial management in business operations. Michael, a former public accountant, emphasized the need to analyze trends and understand a business's ebbs and flows, especially in the context of the pandemic and supply chain challenges. Max agreed, noting that many companies struggle with financial management, which can hinder growth and make it difficult to sell the business. They both highlighted the importance of knowing one's finances to make informed decisions about investments and growth.
Accounting Systems and Bookkeeping Experiences
Michael and Max discussed their experiences with accounting systems and bookkeeping. Michael shared his involvement in the early versions of QuickBooks and emphasized the importance of clean accounting for a strong business. On the other hand, Max talked about his journey in bookkeeping, starting with franchises and eventually becoming the preferred bookkeeping provider for about 100 franchise brands in the US. He also mentioned his recent venture into franchising bookkeeping services, with plans to expand to around 40 or 50 franchises by the end of the following year. Both agreed on the importance of delegation and living life beyond work.
Growing a Business and Franchise Opportunities
Max discussed his work in growing a business and creating a franchise, which he learned about through his experiences. He also introduced Main Entrance, a franchise brokerage he founded to help people not a good fit for bookkeeping franchises find other opportunities. Max emphasized that his services are free to candidates, and he gets paid only if they buy a franchise. He highlighted the interconnectivity of his businesses, with franchisees becoming clients for his bookkeeping services and vice versa. Michael praised Max's work, noting its potential for growth and impact, and encouraged others not to be deterred by economic situations. 

Founder Friday: How Your Workspace Affects Your Creativity and Productivity

In this episode, we explore how workspace design directly impacts productivity, creativity, and focus. We explore the science behind effective layouts, highlighting how open spaces, private desks, and flexible seating can significantly improve performance. Listeners will learn practical tips for arranging their workspace to promote better flow and mental clarity, from facing natural light to creating designated zones for different tasks. We discuss how thoughtful workspace adjustments, even small ones, can boost energy levels, support collaboration, and enhance your day-to-day experience.
We also cover essential elements like lighting, color, and noise control, each playing a crucial role in shaping how you feel and function. Discover how natural light, warm and cool tones, and strategic color choices like blue for focus and yellow for creativity can positively influence your work output. Plus, we discuss managing sound levels to fit your unique needs, whether with calming nature sounds, white noise, or complete silence. Tune in to get actionable insights on transforming your workspace into an environment that fuels your best ideas and productivity.
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: Personal Brand and Business Growth: Tips for Entrepreneurs

In this episode, we dive into the power of personal branding for entrepreneurs and why it's crucial for business growth. Discover how building an authentic, consistent brand can set you apart from the competition and attract the right clients, investors, and media attention. We discuss strategies for crafting a standout personal brand, from telling your unique story to staying consistent across platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram. Learn how your brand can increase credibility, trust, and customer loyalty, helping you scale your business and create lasting relationships.
We also share actionable tips for leveraging your brand to unlock new opportunities. Whether you're networking strategically, creating valuable content, or engaging directly with your audience, building a personal brand is a powerful tool for business success. Tune in to learn how to develop a brand that resonates, drives growth, and positions you as an industry expert. Ready to take your brand to the next level? This episode is packed with insights that will help you elevate your business and achieve 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.

The Art of Growth: A Conversation with Mark A. Mears

**Unveiling the Secrets of Innovation and Stakeholder Value Creation** This captivating podcast delves into the groundbreaking insights of Mark A. Mears, renowned author of "The Purposeful Growth. Join us as Mark unravels the intricate interplay between innovation, stakeholder value, and the transformative power of purpose-driven leadership. **Unlocking Innovation: The Catalyst for Growth and Success** Mark will guide us through his innovative framework for unlocking innovation potential. From fostering a culture of creativity to embracing technological advancements, he'll reveal the strategies that empower organizations to stay ahead of the curve. Learn to identify and nurture game-changing ideas, driving sustained growth and competitive advantage. **The Imperative of Stakeholder Value: Aligning Interests for Success** Mark emphasizes the critical importance of stakeholder value in today's business landscape. He'll delve into the art of balancing the needs of customers, employees, shareholders, and the community. Discover how aligning stakeholder interests creates a virtuous cycle, enhancing reputation, increased loyalty, and greater profitability. **Purpose-Driven Leadership: The Foundation for Sustainable Growth** At the heart of Mark's philosophy lies the concept of purpose-driven leadership. He'll explain how purpose goes beyond profit, serving as a compass that inspires innovation, engages stakeholders, and drives positive societal impact. Learn the secrets of purpose-driven organizations, discovering how they create a thriving and sustainable future. **Case Studies and Real-World Examples** Mark brings his ideas to life throughout the podcast through compelling case studies and real-world examples. He'll showcase organizations that successfully implement his principles, from technology giants to social enterprises, achieving remarkable innovation and stakeholder value. **Insights for Leaders, Innovators, and Change Agents** This podcast is an essential resource for leaders, innovators, and change agents who seek to unlock innovation, create stakeholder value, and drive purposeful growth. Mark's wisdom and practical guidance will empower you to: * Foster a culture of innovation and creativity * Balance stakeholder interests effectively * Embrace purpose as a driver of success * Lead your organization toward a sustainable and prosperous future Don't miss this opportunity to gain invaluable insights from the leading minds in innovation and stakeholder value creation. Join us for "Unlocking Innovation and Stakeholder Value with Mark A. Mears" and embark on a transformative journey of growth and success.
 
Mark A. Mears is a #1 Best-Selling author, keynote speaker, consultant, and visionary business leader. He has a significant track record of building stakeholder value and driving innovation and profitable growth among world-class, high-profile brands such as PepsiCo/Pizza Hut, McDonald’s, Frito-Lay, JCPenney, NBCUniversal, and The Cheesecake Factory.Today, Mark serves as Founder and Chief Growth Officer for LEAF Growth Ventures, LLC. This consulting firm inspires individuals, teams, and organizations to find purpose in fulfilling their true growth potential while making a positive, lasting difference.Mark has just released his new book, The Purposeful Growth Revolution: 4 Ways to Grow from Leader to Legacy Builder.Mark is also a member of the Senior Leader Network within Conscious Capitalism, Inc., a global organization whose mission he shares: Elevating Humanity Through Business.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markamears/Website: https://www.MarkAMears.com
Leadership and Positive Work Environment
Michael and Mark discussed their shared passion for leadership and the importance of creating a positive work environment. Mark shared his experiences in the restaurant, retail, hospitality, and entertainment industries and his mission to lead the "Purposeful Growth Revolution" to help managers become leaders who can grow into living legacy builders. They also discussed the impact of leaders on their teams and the need for leaders to understand themselves before they can effectively lead others. Mark emphasized the importance of words and how they can shape perceptions, suggesting that using terms like "works with" instead of "works for" can foster a sense of teamwork. The conversation ended with an agreement to continue the discussion in a future meeting.
Involving Everyone in the Planning Process
Mark and Michael discussed the importance of involving everyone in the planning process, using the example of a successful marketing and menu plan for a restaurant chain. They highlighted the need for collaboration and breaking down silos to achieve success. Mark shared a specific instance where a chef's idea led to a successful marketing campaign around the theme of "the year of originality" brought to you by Solidworks. They also discussed the importance of decreasing costs and extending menu options without adding extra items. Michael emphasized the need for time in planning and the importance of breaking down silos to work together effectively.
Leaf Model for Growth and Collaboration
Mark shared his experience of being let go from a restaurant concept and how it led him to write his book, "Leaf: A Model for Growth and Rebirth." He explained how the leaf symbol represents growth, rebirth, and a model for success. He also discussed the importance of breaking down silos and collaborating with team members. Michael then asked Mark about his book, and Mark elaborated on the four circles of the leaf model: leadership, engagement, accountability, and fulfillment. He also introduced a new model, "Love Leadership," which extends the leaf model.
Empathy, Communication, and Employee Growth
Mark discussed the importance of empathy and human connection in the workplace, using the acronym LOVE to represent the key elements of effective communication and leadership. He emphasized the need to listen deeply, observe and coach, value and invest in employees, and empower them to grow and contribute to the team. Mark also highlighted the importance of providing opportunities for learning and growth and encouraged employees to share their knowledge and ideas to improve the workplace. He used the example of investing in an employee's interest in AI to illustrate how this approach can lead to better results and a more fulfilling work environment.
Empowering Employees for Growth and Belonging
Mark shares a personal story about learning to ride a bike without training wheels, highlighting the sense of freedom, accomplishment, and growth he experienced. He parallels that experience and empowers employees to feel valued, coached, and invested in their work. Michael affirms the importance of creating a psychologically safe environment where employees feel a sense of belonging, are nurtured, and are given opportunities. He shares an example of reducing turnover by implementing such practices in an organization he led.
Sentimental Value of Childhood Bikes
Michael shared a personal story about his childhood bikes, highlighting the sentimental value of a green bike given to him by his great-grandfather. He also recounted how his father, instead of retrieving the motorcycle after a neighbor's child took it, chose to let the child keep it, demonstrating grace and love. Michael expressed his gratitude for his father's decision, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding in difficult situations.
Fostering a Positive Work Environment and Belonging
Michael and Mark discussed the importance of creating a positive work environment that fosters a sense of community and belonging. They emphasized the need for organizations to prioritize the well-being of their employees, as this leads to increased productivity and loyalty. Michael highlighted the importance of leading by example and caring for people, while Mark stressed the significance of feeling included and valued in the workplace. They also touched on total diversity, encompassing outer and inner diversity, and the need for psychological safety to encourage vulnerability and creativity. The conversation concluded with Mark's emphasis on the importance of positively impacting others' lives and creating a virtuous cycle of reciprocity.
Creating a Positive Work Environment
Michael and Mark discussed the importance of creating a positive work environment and its impact on employees. Mark shared his book, "Purposeful Growth Revolution," and offered a free self-assessment on his website. Michael encouraged everyone to take the assessment and subscribe to Mark's newsletter. They both expressed their desire to continue the conversation and support each other in their respective roles

Founder Friday: What You Need For Your Business To Thrive

When starting a new business, you must get several essential elements right from the outset to ensure your company thrives. First and foremost, you need a robust and user-friendly website that serves as the public face of your business when your physical doors are closed. This means investing in a website that is stable, easy to navigate and puts customers no more than three clicks away from the information or products they seek. If you've never designed a website before, consider working with a web design agency or using a platform like WordPress to create a professional-looking, high-performing online presence.
 
Alongside a robust digital foundation, building a great team of employees is crucial for your business's success. Employees are the backbone of your company, responsible for ensuring smooth operations and fulfilling customer needs.
Take the time to carefully vet and hire the right people, looking for individuals who can work well independently and as part of a team. Additionally, ensure you have enough funding to get your business off the ground through your capital or a business loan, and invest in reliable technology to keep up with your operational demands.
Finally, don't overlook the importance of effective marketing to help potential customers discover your offerings. By focusing on these five key areas - website, employees, funding, technology, and marketing - you can set your startup up for long-term success and avoid the pitfalls that lead to early business failures.
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.