Create The Business Case For All Stakeholders To Profit, Not Just The Shareholders Getting Down To Business With Mark Mondo podcast

54:39

Cynthia & I interview Renée Michaud , a money and abundance coach from Vancouver, British Columbia. Renée specializes in helping people mend their complicated relationships with money to achieve greater success and happiness. The discussion covers several key points: Fear and Money: Renée explains how fear impacts our cognitive abilities and leads to poor financial decisions. When people are in a state of fear, they often sabotage their financial success by engaging in coping mechanisms like overeating or unnecessary spending. Relationship with Money: The conversation delves into the deeply ingrained beliefs and emotional patterns around money, often stemming from childhood and family influences. Renée emphasizes the importance of recognizing and transforming these patterns to create a healthier relationship with money. Mindset and Abundance: Renée encourages listeners to shift their mindset from viewing money as a necessary evil or a source of stress to seeing it as a neutral energy that can be a supportive partner. She suggests practical exercises like journaling about one’s feelings towards money and envisioning a positive relationship with it. Generational Influence: The discussion touches on how generational beliefs about money can impact our current financial behaviors. Renée highlights the importance of updating these outdated beliefs to align with present-day goals and aspirations. Practical Steps: Renée provides actionable steps for listeners to start improving their relationship with money, including being non-judgmental about their current financial situation, becoming aware of their automatic thoughts about money, and welcoming money as a positive force in their lives.…

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Breaking Free: Essential Steps for Moving from Corporate Life to Self-Employment with Nils Welham 57:00

49 weeks之前57:00

57:00

Cynthia & I sit down with Nils Welham , an business coach and founder of The Uncaged Existence . Nils shares his journey from a corporate career to coaching, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, vision, and systems in achieving business success and personal fulfillment. What You'll Learn: Introduction to Nils Welham: Nils' diverse background, including living in multiple countries and extensive travel. His mission to help individuals find joy and freedom by being true to themselves. Transition from Corporate to Coaching: Nils' initial career in financial services and the realization that it wasn't fulfilling. The pivotal moments and personal experiences that led him to pursue coaching. Cultivating Vision and Authenticity: The importance of having a clear, personal vision beyond societal expectations. Nils' approach to helping clients uncover their true desires and align their actions with their values. Balancing Financial Security and Passion: Strategies for managing financial risks while transitioning to a new career. The role of part-time jobs and gradual changes in building a sustainable business. Systems and Personal Growth: How effective systems and self-reflection are critical to achieving long-term goals. The interplay between faith, vision, and practical steps in creating a successful business. Real-life Examples and Client Success Stories: Nils shares examples of clients who have successfully navigated transitions by staying true to their vision and values. The impact of choosing love over fear in business decisions. Conclusion: The episode wraps up with Nils providing practical advice on maintaining authenticity and staying committed to one's vision. The hosts reflect on the importance of continuous personal growth and setting boundaries to achieve professional and personal success.…

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Business Done Right: Allyne Agrest's Approach to Estate Sales 53:08

50 weeks之前53:08

53:08

Cynthia & I sit down with Allyne Agrest , the founder of Amazing Estate Sales in Vernon Hills, Illinois. Starting during the COVID-19 pandemic to becoming a successful estate sales entrepreneur, Allyne shares her journey of building a thriving business that works for buyers, sellers, and herself. Discover her unique approach to estate sales, including clever marketing strategies, her knack for emotional intelligence, and her practical systems that keep everything running smoothly. Allyne also reveals her favorite incentive program—giving away the estate's liquor with a minimum purchase of $100.00. This innovative program helps the estate clear unsellable items, boosts Allyne's profits, and provides buyers with added value. Allyne tells a positive story in an era where it's way too easy to be cynical or unethical.…

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Modernizing Payments and Safeguarding Profits: Insight with Chandra Spary-Kontinos 1:02:03

51 weeks之前1:02:03

1:02:03

Cynthia & I interview Chandra Spary-Kontinos , the founder of Card Systems . She has over 30 years of experience in the merchant service industry. Her extensive background includes involvement in the RSPA, ETA and Dress for Success for southwest Florida. Main Discussion Points: Evolution of Payment Systems: Transition from manual card imprints to digital transactions has revolutionized payment processing. Efficiency in Payments: Electronic payment systems, including credit cards and ACH, offer improved efficiency and security over traditional methods like checks. Challenges with Payment Costs: The discussion covers the high costs associated with reward credit cards and how they impact small businesses. Surcharging and Dual Pricing: Trends in surcharging and dual pricing help businesses manage transaction fees by passing them onto consumers. Preventing Internal Embezzlement: Vigilance in monitoring employee transactions, implementing strict controls, and regular financial audits are crucial. Modern payment systems that restrict unauthorized refunds and require transaction authorizations can mitigate risks. Legal and Regulatory Landscape: Chandra discusses a class action lawsuit where merchants claimed that Visa and Mastercard charged excessive interchange fees. The settlement offers compensation to affected merchants who register by May 31st, 2024. Contact us to register at no charge to you. .…

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Crafting Caffeine: Yami Hu's Journey from Corporate America to Cold Brew Coffee at Three Legged Brewing 1:00:33

52 weeks之前1:00:33

1:00:33

Cynthia & I interview Yami Hu , the founder of Three Legged Coffee Brewing , a craft brewery specializing in all-natural, zero-calorie cold brew coffees. Yami shares her journey from a corporate American to entrepreneurship, sparked by her desire for a more fulfilling professional life. She discusses the challenges and successes she faced while starting her business, including leveraging a Kickstarter campaign to fund the initial stages and planning a unique coffee brewery and taproom in Lindenhurst, Illinois. Key points from the interview include: Yami’s transition from a long career in corporate America to starting her own business. The inspiration behind the name "Three Legged Brewing" comes from her three-legged dog, Mogwai, who became the company's mascot. The benefits of cold brew coffee and Yami’s passion for the product. Her experience on the reality TV show "The Blocks," which focuses on entrepreneurship. The use of Kickstarter as a crowdfunding platform to support her business. Challenges of competing with major brands like Starbucks and the importance of unique branding and community engagement. The strategic decision to open a brick-and-mortar location to increase cash flow and visibility. Throughout the episode, Yami emphasizes the importance of community support, learning from others, and the mental resilience needed to navigate the highs and lows of entrepreneurship. She also highlights her commitment to creating a multifaceted business that includes both a physical retail presence and distribution of her products.…

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Health Insurance Reimagined with Michelle McCorry - Alternatives That Work 53:18

1 year之前53:18

53:18

Cynthia & I interview Michelle McCorry, MS CMR, a pioneer in health sharing plans offers a new perspective on healthcare solutions in America. As we dive into the limitations of traditional health insurance, Michelle illustrates how alternative models can provide effective, affordable care. With the U.S. health system facing critical scrutiny—ranking below many other nations despite high spending—this episode sheds light on innovative strategies that could reshape healthcare. Tune in to discover how we can achieve better health outcomes without breaking the bank. Stats we cite in the episode: The American system is the only private one in the world. 27M are uninsured (9%). https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Health_insurance_coverage_in_the_United_States If we follow the Legatum Prosperity Index, the US ranks 68th in outcomes with Singapore #1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Legatum_Prosperity_Index According to the Peterson Center on Healthcare Foundation, a non-profit non-partisan, we spend $12,914 per capita and have a life expectancy of 76.1 years. Meanwhile, Japan is 84.5 years and spends $4,666.Source: https://tinyurl.com/3vh9zyh8…

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Beyond Life Insurance: Innovating Your Estate's Safety Net with George Schwabe & Paul Katz 55:58

1 year之前55:58

55:58

Cynthia & I talk to George Schwabe and Paul Katz , two renowned figures known for their innovative approaches to financial security and risk management. George and Paul share their expertise on evaluating estates and explore a variety of financial instruments beyond life insurance, such as annuities, and why they might be a better fit—or not—for your financial strategy. The best part of the show is listening to Paul's no-nonsense approach as he likens himself to our favorite curmudgeon. However, there is a balance between trust, likability and getting honesty when addressing these important topics. Paul & George discuss their approach on how this is accomplished.…

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Success in Commercial Real Estate Brokerage: An Interview with Carlos Pelaez 54:38

1 year之前54:38

54:38

I interview Carlos Pelaez , a commercial real estate agent working at Baron Commercial Real Estate in Stuart, Florida. Carlos shares his story of his family emigrating from Cuba after Castro nationalized their land, and they had to start over in the US. After working as a prosecutor in Orlando, Carlos wanted to change careers to earn more money after getting saddled with debt from law school. Carols shares what works during his career selling timeshares, residential and commercial real estate in the Florida market. Actually, those skills transcend geography if you want to get into selling real estate or sales in general. He uses his skills to overcome the fear of rejection to pitch President Trump in person at Marl-A-Lago. Find out what happens next. (Spoiler Alert: The Secret Service gets involved)…

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Moving on up in Real Estate: Barb Noote, a 21 Year Vet of Real Estate Shows Us How It’s Possible 1:01:22

1 year之前1:01:22

1:01:22

In this episode, Mark & Cynthia welcome Barb Noote , the managing broker from Noote Partners , who began her remarkable career at just 18 – a move so unprecedented that it influenced Illinois state licensing laws. Barb shares her journey, including how she built a successful team in an industry where income is often solely commission-based, and the nuances of becoming a real estate agent. The discussion also touches on the impact of the buyer's commission lawsuit and its implications for sellers and agents alike. Barb provides valuable insights into acquiring properties with lower down payments through state and county programs, the advantages of buying in the short term, and how she successfully overcame the challenges of being a young newcomer in the real estate market. Additionally, Mark and Cynthia contrast their own real estate experiences, highlighting the importance of professional guidance in property transactions.…

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Setting Goals and Side Hustles from our Favorite Sitcoms 1:03:54

1 year之前1:03:54

1:03:54

Cynthia & I discuss how and why to set goals, even if you are self-employed and do not need to answer to investors or a sales manager. And we end the year on a fun note citing our favorite sitcom character's side hustles. Especially, Cosmo Kramer of Kramerica Industries.

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From The Stage to The Classroom to a TedX Talk: An Interview with Amanda Blair MacDonald 1:04:29

1 year之前1:04:29

1:04:29

Cynthia & I interview Amanda Blair MacDonald to learn how she went from performing in New York to teaching among several local universities including DePaul (What about Loyola, Amanda? 😉 ) . She helps performers through mind and body balance using The Alexander Technique & Movement Pattern Analysis with Amanda Blair MacDonald and Laban methodologies. Amanda knows her stuff, and she's presented at a TedX talk as well .…

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Breaking into YouTube: The Story of the Campos Collective 1:02:46

1 year之前1:02:46

1:02:46

Cynthia Zimmerman & I interview The Campos Collective , a trio of innovative musicians who share their journey on how they adapted to the marketplace as performers. They’re a group of Chicago-native musicians and close friends who are passionate about creating their interpretation of well-known music through film, theatrical enactment, and design. Their music was recently featured on the Howard Stern Wrap-Up show . They have received feedback from supporters such as…“Absolutely phenomenal,” “This is ethereal and magical!” and “One of my favorite channels now!” You can find them sharing new videos every Friday on their YouTube Channel: The Campos Collective.…

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Faith at Work: Bridging Business and Belief with Bob Lambert 1:01:58

1 year之前1:01:58

1:01:58

Cynthia & I interview Bob Lambert , the regional director of G7, a faith-based networking group. Instead of taking the standard approach we experience in networking groups like BNI, Le Tip or a chamber of commerce, G7 explicitly employs faith to help people fiscally and spiritually. With Cynthia's upbringing in the Methodist missionary community and Bob's return to faith after being raised in Roman Catholic household, we took a look at a different view (at least for me) on how this could work for many people. After all, after 20+ interviews, we have learned entrepreneurs require a support system. It's not a solo act.…

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The Golden Tenor’s Journey: Luis Galvez-Alcantara – Crafting a Musical Legacy 1:00:06

1 year之前1:00:06

1:00:06

Mark and Cynthia interview professional Chicago musician, Luis Antonio Galvez-Alcantara , who shared his impressive journey of becoming a successful musical entrepreneur. He’s a native of Lima, Peru, and a sought-after singer described as ‘…the golden tenor’ by Hedy Weiss of the Chicago Sun Times, and ‘…a gorgeous operatic tenor voice’ by the Third Coast Review. In addition to performing, he teaches, is the Director of Choral Music at Mary, Mother of Divine Grace Parish, and the Founder and Executive Director of the North Shore Opera Hour, a 501(c) (3) non-profit. Not only does Luis provide insight into following one's passion but also the need to hone one's talent and skills for long-term success, especially when running a non-profit organization.…

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Unlocking E-mail Marketing: Risks, Rewards, and Best Practices with Vivek Gargav 56:24

2 years之前56:24

56:24

Join Mark & Cynthia as we dive into the world of e-mail marketing with Vivek Gargav , the Marketing Director at Caldere Associates hailing from Reading, United Kingdom. Vivek is a seasoned professional with a passion for CRM software development and digital marketing. With over 20 years of experience in the CRM industry, he has showcased his expertise working extensively with tools like Zoho CRM, Zoho Social, Zoho Campaigns, and Zoho Analytics. Beyond his professional commitments, Vivek is a dedicated electric guitar player, a rugby enthusiast, and a sci-fi buff. We explore why e-mail marketing remains a powerful tool for businesses, the risks of using regular e-mail clients for bulk messaging, and the components of an effective e-mail campaign. Additionally, Cynthia contributes shares insights on how a non-profit agency leverages e-mail marketing. She delves into the importance of testing, the necessity for constant learning to avoid spam filters, and the significance of market segmentation to reach the right audience effectively. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned marketer, this episode promises to offer insights that can elevate your e-mail marketing game.…

Getting Down To Business with Mark Mondo

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Navigating the Credit Maze: A Deep Dive into Commercial Credit with Matthew Bruggeman 55:08

2 years之前55:08

55:08

I delve into the complex world of commercial credit, joined by expert Matthew Bruggeman . We navigate through the intricate landscape of credit philosophy, mechanics, and the elusive promised land of financial stability for small business owners. Philosophy: Our discussion kicks off by unraveling the stark contrast between business and personal credit, emphasizing why this differentiation is pivotal. Matthew shares insights into the critical aspects of credit identifiers and risk assessment, and why the system remains far from being fixed. Together, they explore the often-misunderstood notion: "Don't hate the player, hate the game." Mechanics: We take a deep dive into the mechanics of credit, deciphering the significance of scores and statistics. They discuss innovative approaches to bridge the gaps in credibility, red flags, anti-fraud measures, and the importance of reporting across credit bureaus. The exploration extends to the depth of accounts and uncovers the key aspects of building robust business credit. Promised Land: The episode wraps up with a tantalizing glimpse into the Promised Land – the ultimate goal for small business owners. Our host also shares their personal story, marked by the cynicism and perplexity of the credit world, recounting their experiences during the Great Recession of 2008 and the unexpected upside of credit during the COVID era, exemplified by the EIDL loan.…

Getting Down To Business with Mark Mondo

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Getting Cozy with Competitors: A Collaborative Business Journey with Mark Mondo, Steve Stroz & Alan Lee 53:31

2 years之前53:31

53:31

In this episode, we redefine competitors as potential collaborators. Discover insightful discussions with CRM industry experts Steve Stroz and Alan Lee . Steve Stroz is a CRM expert with over two decades of experience, chosen as a speaker by top companies and known for founding industry events. Alan Lee, founder of E TECH SYSTEMS, is your guide to using CRM systems for Sales, Customer Service, and Lead Generation. Tune in to hear these experts share remarkable collaboration stories. Alan shares the story of creating a peer group of 100 members who share details to help CRM consultants succeed. Meanwhile, Steve and Mark recount the time when Steve bailed out Mark's client during a weekend project to convert Act! to Hubspot after Mark's client's employee bailed. These real-world examples demonstrate the power of collaboration in business. Get ready for transformative insights and success stories on turning competitors into collaborators. You'll be surprised on the results! The three of us work less while retaining profitability.…

Getting Down To Business with Mark Mondo

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Lucas Herren’s Blueprint for Middle-Class Prosperity Through Investing in Real Estate 1:00:06

2 years之前1:00:06

1:00:06

Mark and Cynthia dive into the world of real estate with their guest, Lucas Herren . Lucas, a dual-licensed real estate professional affiliated with Coldwell Banker Realty in Illinois and Indiana earned a reputation as a top-tier expert in the field by closing $2 million in sales in his very first year, Lucas's success is underpinned by his unwavering commitment to exceptional service and a deep understanding of the local real estate market. In this episode, you'll get an insider's perspective on the real estate industry as Lucas shares his insights on how middle-class individuals can leverage their first home as a pivotal investment to build their net worth.…

Getting Down To Business with Mark Mondo

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Guarding Your Digital Fort: Unmasking Cybersecurity Threats with Thomas Gottfried 1:01:02

2 years之前1:01:02

1:01:02

Mark and Cynthia delve deep into the world of cybersecurity with Thomas Gottfried , the owner of Thomas Guard based in Libertyville, Illinois. With 25 years of experience spanning manufacturing, supply chain management, and information technology, Thomas focuses on businesses with under 10 PCs, helping them through all their I.T. requirements. Join us as we uncover the secrets of cyber threats, from deceptive emails that lure you into clicking dangerous links to hackers disguising malicious websites as legitimate brands like HP. Thomas shares stories of how hackers manipulate phone calls to install malware, remotely control PCs, and steal sensitive data, including banking details. You'll also hear about a real-world incident where USB flash drives near military bases were used to deceive individuals into installing malware at the Department of Defense. Thomas offers valuable solutions to help protect yourself from email scams and deceptive callers. Tom and Cynthia, improvise a phone call in which Cynthia fends off a hacker attempting to steal her confidential information, including her social security number. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that will empower you to safeguard your digital life!…

Getting Down To Business with Mark Mondo

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Breaking Free and Living Unapologetically: Annie Mendez-McDaniel’s Extraordinary Journey 59:56

2 years之前59:56

59:56

We dive deep into the remarkable life and inspirational journey of Annie Mendez-McDaniel . A certified Life, Law of Attraction, and Transformation Coach, Annie is also the author of " Simply Unapologetic ," a memoir that chronicles her extraordinary path to resilience and personal growth. She takes us through the challenges of surviving abusive marriages and, most importantly, the keys that empowered her to break free from those toxic relationships. Annie candidly discusses the internal barriers that once held her back from taking that courageous step until she reached her breaking point. But Annie's journey doesn't stop at personal transformation. She's also a global explorer, having ventured across all seven continents and over ninety countries. Annie's adventures serve as a powerful testament to the idea that living unapologetically and conquering our fears can turn our wildest dreams into reality. Moderated by producer Cynthia Zimmerman, this discussion offers invaluable insights and practical advice for anyone on the fence, looking for that spark of inspiration to embark on their own transformative journey. Annie's concrete results, including visiting all seven continents in just one year while maintaining a full-time job without being a millionaire, serve as living proof that it's possible to turn dreams into achievable goals.…

Getting Down To Business with Mark Mondo

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Taking the Leap: Michelle Scott’s Path from Corporate America to Entrepreneur 53:58

2 years之前53:58

53:58

Join us as we welcome Michelle Scott , a seasoned CRM consultant with over two decades of experience. Michelle's journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of community support, all while setting strong work boundaries and prioritizing mental health. Michelle Scott's career took an unconventional turn when she transitioned from corporate America to become a CRM consultant in 1999. What's even more remarkable is that she was recruited by her vendor, a bold move that speaks to her exceptional skills and the business she was driving away from the vendor's perspective. In this episode, Michelle candidly shares her experiences, including her initial doubts about her qualifications for CRM consulting, her eventual confidence gained through years of work, and the abrupt job losses that forced her to forge her own path. Her story is a testament to overcoming adversity and embracing opportunities. Mark and Michelle engage in a candid conversation about the realities of working alone, emphasizing the need for a robust emotional support system. They discuss the crucial importance of addressing mental health issues and unresolved personal challenges because, as a solo entrepreneur, your well-being directly impacts your work. Unresolved issues can manifest in your business operations because, as the face of your company, you can't hide from them. Additionally, Michelle shares an essential aspect of her journey, a significant pivot in her business model. She details how she had to adapt when the technical support side of the CRM software she was supporting began to decline in market share. This pivot demonstrates her adaptability and resilience in the ever-changing business landscape. Discover how Michelle built a strong support system within her family and community, how a colleague's rejection of her job application encouraged her to go solo, the strategies she employed to set effective work boundaries, and the challenges she overcame while pivoting her business model. Producer Cynthia Zimmerman joins the conversation as they explore unique workplace issues that women often encounter, shedding light on a perspective that differs from Mark's firsthand experiences. Michelle's inspiring journey serves as a beacon of hope for those who are considering taking the plunge into entrepreneurship or making a career change. In a world where asking for help is increasingly accepted and encouraged, Mark, Michelle, and Cynthia emphasize the importance of seeking support, establishing boundaries, nurturing mental health, and adapting to change to maintain professional and personal well-being. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable advice, motivation, and a fresh perspective on navigating the ever-evolving landscape of the business world while ensuring a healthy work-life balance. The shame factor associated with seeking help has significantly evolved from the past, making it a resounding "yes" to seek assistance when needed…

Getting Down To Business with Mark Mondo

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Introducing Getting Down to Business with Mark Mondo 1:09

2 years之前1:09

1:09

Getting Down To Business with Mark Mondo

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The Business Case for Treating Employees as Assets: A Conversation with Michael Woyan 53:00

2 years之前53:00

53:00

In this episode, Mark and Cynthia Zimmerman engage in a thought-provoking discussion with the renowned Social Impact Entrepreneur, Michael Woyan of Marketsling Innovation Labs . Michael, a true master collaborator and innovation architect, brings over three decades of experience to the table. Join us as he shares insights from his extensive background in areas ranging from social enterprise to finance, technology, marketing, and beyond. Discover how the "Business Case for Treating Employees as Assets" can revolutionize your organization's success. In this episode, Michael highlights two success stories from his consultancy work – one in the world of hospitality and the other in the complex realm of mortgage brokerage. Cynthia leads a conversation about diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), exploring the ever-evolving landscape of workplace culture. Mark shares his own experiences and how he's implementing valuable feedback from his contractors to drive pivotal changes in his UK office. Join us as we challenge the prevailing notion that "No one wants to work" amidst record-low unemployment rates and delve into the compelling argument that treating employees as assets is not only ethical but also a strategic advantage.…

Getting Down To Business with Mark Mondo

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AI-Powered Growth: Unlocking Cold Email Marketing for Small Businesses on a Shoestring Budget 59:17

2 years之前59:17

59:17

Mark and Cynthia Zimmerman dive deep into the world of artificial intelligence. In this engaging podcast, Mark and his AI guide, Vivek Gargav , explore the incredible potential of ChatGPT. Together, they reveal how to harness ChatGPT's power to construct an ideal client profile and why this is pivotal in today's business landscape. Discover how ChatGPT complements, rather than replaces, human expertise when seeking assistance with strategic decisions and copywriting. Mark shares his expertise on using ChatGPT to craft compelling cold email campaigns, demonstrating how AI can supercharge your outreach efforts. Vivek emphasizes the importance of refining ChatGPT's initial drafts to achieve polished, effective messaging. To easily send email, Mark introduces Clodura.AI , an innovative list scraping tool that streamlines your campaign process without cluttering your CRM. Say goodbye to tedious data migration between systems, and say hello to a more efficient way to cultivate your initial data. Stay at the forefront of AI's transformative role in today's business landscape. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this podcast offers valuable insights to help you leverage AI for success. Subscribe now and embark on a journey to master the art of AI in business!…

Getting Down To Business with Mark Mondo

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Revelation, Faith & Perseverance: The Unconventional Story of Cindy Chang 58:27

2 years之前58:27

58:27

In this episode, we sit down with Cindy Chang , a Korean immigrant who's not only a talented actress but also an independent distributor of skin care products. Cynthia & I uncover the remarkable story of how Cindy built her career outside the confines of conventional networks and expectations. Cindy's journey is a testament to the power of faith, perseverance, and the unyielding desire to learn. Despite familial expectations pushing her towards a "safer" trade, Cindy fearlessly ventured into the uncertain world of acting. Through our candid conversation, we learn how her faith provided a strong foundation to navigate the challenges of pursuing an unconventional career. Beyond faith, Cindy's story is one of internal perseverance and motivation. Her family's concerns about the instability of the acting profession didn't deter her; instead, it fueled her determination to prove that success can be achieved on her terms. Her journey wasn't without its obstacles, but her relentless pursuit of honing her craft led her to unexpected opportunities. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a creative soul, or anyone striving for self-discovery, Cindy's journey will ignite your own pursuit of unconventional success.…

Getting Down To Business with Mark Mondo

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Luddite No More: Embracing AI and Voice Search for Getting More Inbound Leads and Enhancing Customer Experiences 58:09

2 years之前58:09

58:09

We dive into the cutting-edge strategies transforming the business landscape. In this episode, host Mark Mondo takes on the role of the inquisitive luddite, exploring the realms of Voice Marketing, AI-powered content creation, and their profound impact on businesses. 🎙️ Join us for captivating conversations with our expert guests: Susan & Scot Westwater of Pragmatic.Digital : Discover the future of marketing with voice search technology and conversational AI. Susan and Scot unveil insights from their new book on Voice Marketing, shedding light on how businesses can leverage these innovative tools to engage customers and stay ahead of the curve. Vivek Gargav of Caldere Associates : Explore the power of AI in content marketing as Vivek shares his remarkable success story. Learn how he harnessed ChatGPT and other AI tools to achieve a remarkable 400% ROI over just six months. Vivek's experience provides actionable takeaways for businesses aiming to boost their content strategy's effectiveness. Mark Mondo , Your Host: Step into Mark's shoes as he candidly admits his unfamiliarity with voice search and its role in business. As a moderator and self-proclaimed luddite, Mark seeks enlightenment from our knowledgeable guests, allowing listeners to relate to his journey of discovering the potential of these transformative technologies. Practical AI Solutions for Small Businesses: Susan and Scot share invaluable insights into using AI tools like Bard and Google My Business. Learn how even small businesses with shoestring budgets can create a competitive advantage by harnessing AI's capabilities. Uncover strategies that can propel your business forward in an increasingly digital world. 🔗 Whether you're a tech-savvy entrepreneur or a curious business enthusiast, this episode will expand your horizons and inspire you to embrace the future of business innovation. Join us and gain the knowledge you need to thrive in today's dynamic market.…

Getting Down To Business with Mark Mondo

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Harmonizing Passions: From Teaching to Performing in the World of Music 56:52

2 years之前56:52

56:52

Cynthia & I interview the multi-talented Tina Pappademos , a freelance singer, piano teacher, and certified yoga instructor. Tina's journey from teaching music in public schools to embracing a thriving career in both singing and teaching has been nothing short of remarkable. Having graced the stage of prestigious venues, including the renowned Chicago Symphony Chorus and the Grant Park Chorus , Tina brings her rich experiences to the forefront as she discusses the intricacies of finding gigs in the competitive world of music. She sheds light on the challenges of managing rejection and navigating auditions in an industry as subjective as music, offering invaluable insights to aspiring performers. One of the most surprising revelations comes from Tina's perspective on how the pandemic unexpectedly facilitated her teaching journey, enabling her to strike a harmonious work-life balance. From virtual lessons to innovative ways of connecting with students, she unveils the silver linings of an otherwise tumultuous time. Beyond her musical pursuits, Tina's passion for yoga shines through as she shares tips on leveraging networking to discover new and exciting audition opportunities. Her versatility as an artist and instructor offers a refreshing perspective on the art of balancing passions and careers. Join us for an uplifting conversation filled with practical advice, personal anecdotes, and profound wisdom as Tina Pappademos illuminates the path towards a harmonious and fulfilling life in the world of music and teaching. Tune in to a story that will inspire and resonate with performers, educators, and dreamers alike.…

Getting Down To Business with Mark Mondo

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From Frustration to Freedom: The Path to Success in Commercial Real Estate with Matt Mondo 54:27

2 years之前54:27

54:27

Join hosts Mark Mondo and Cynthia Zimmerman as they sit down with special guest Matt Mondo on his journey from frustration to freedom in the world of commercial real estate. In this episode, Matt shares his experiences of moving from Chicago to the Treasure Coast of Florida, starting with zero clients and relentless drive for change. Discover how Matt successfully transitioned from a background in network support to sales. Reflecting on the challenges he faced while trying to sell MSP services, Matt candidly discusses the frustrations of dealing with ever-changing product lines dictated by layers of management, the constant rotation of new bosses every 90 days, and the mismatched mindset of applying copier sales strategies to the world of MSP services. However, amidst the setbacks, he emphasizes the invaluable support he received from his family and the transformative power of collaboration. Tune in as Matt underscores the importance of collaboration over competition, even among fellow agents within the same brokerage, as a key driver of his success. Gain insight, inspiration, and practical wisdom as they discuss the keys to navigating career transitions, overcoming obstacles, and embracing collaboration to achieve triumph in the ever-evolving business landscape.…

Getting Down To Business with Mark Mondo

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From Donuts to Deals: Unconventional Success in Real Estate 52:47

2 years之前52:47

52:47

In the podcast "From Donuts to Deals," hosts Mark and Cynthia invite listeners to embark on an extraordinary journey with Conor Mackin , a commercial real estate agent residing in Florida's Treasure Coast. Conor's story of triumph begins with his humble origins, working at a Dunkin Donuts store and traversing the streets on a bicycle, before eventually quadrupling his income within a mere two years. What sets Conor's success apart is the fact that he had no prior experience in the real estate industry. This unique aspect adds a layer of inspiration and relatability to his tale, as he shares the transformative process of learning the ropes and carving out a niche for himself in the competitive field of commercial real estate. Amidst his professional accomplishments, Conor bravely opens up about his personal battle with overcoming substance abuse. However, rather than simply categorizing it as such, Conor dives into the pivotal moments and decisions that enabled him to conquer this formidable challenge. By sharing his own journey, Conor imparts valuable insights into personal growth, resilience, and the power of determination. Beyond his personal struggles, Conor delves into the essential skills necessary for navigating the world of sales and overcoming the fear of rejection. Listeners will glean practical advice and strategies for turning rejection into a catalyst for growth and ultimate triumph. Furthermore, "From Donuts to Deals" challenges the prevailing notion that groundbreaking innovations or unicorn apps are the sole drivers of success in business. Conor's story exemplifies the effectiveness of old-school sales techniques and reinforces the belief that by focusing on fundamental principles and strategies, remarkable results can be achieved. Tune in to "From Donuts to Deals" to be inspired by Conor Mackin's exceptional journey, gain practical advice for personal and professional growth, and develop a fresh perspective on success in the real estate industry, all from the unique vantage point of an individual who started with no prior real estate experience.…

Getting Down To Business with Mark Mondo

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The Resilient Franchise Owner: Maureen Twohey’s Journey to Personal and Professional Prosperity 57:26

2 years之前57:26

57:26

We interview Maureen Twohey an owner of 9Round Fitness in Wheeling Illinois, about what it takes to become a franchise owner to gain both financial and personal fulfillment. She shares her story about how she got through the pandemic, and how business owners need a support system (and, yes, even the government helped) to be successful.…

Getting Down To Business with Mark Mondo

1
Setting up a professional services business with the right software on a shoestring budget 59:11

2 years之前59:11

59:11

Cynthia Zimmerman and I discuss how to find cheap and free software for website hosting, video editing, CRM, e-mail marketing, accounting, image editing, audio editing, video conferencing and collaboration tools. Then we put it all together with #chatgpt to help you create marketing content and run a professional services business on a shoestring budget.…

Getting Down To Business with Mark Mondo

1
Create the Business Case for All Stakeholders to Profit, Not Just The Shareholders 57:05

2 years之前57:05

57:05

Michael Woyan lays out the facts and stats to make a profitable business that has social impact where all stakeholders (customers, vendors, employees and the community) thrive, rather than just the shareholders (aka the investor class).

Getting Down To Business with Mark Mondo

1
Using AI to Create Consistent Content Marketing 55:28

2 years之前55:28

55:28

Vivek Gargav of Caldere Associates shows us how to start using AI to create consistent marketing on a limited budget. As a software developer with no previous marketing experience, he shares his excitement on its potential and demonstrates real-life return on investment in months, not years.

Getting Down To Business with Mark Mondo

1
Can Entrepreneurs Do The Right Thing for All Stakeholders And Still Profit? 57:35

2 years之前57:35