Entrepreneurs United
By John St.Pierre and Rich Hoffmann
EP 301: Mastering the Preparation Principle, Essential Tips for Business Exits w/ Eric Coonrod
Do you actually know what your business is worth? Most entrepreneurs think they do.
Eric Coonrod is a 22-year investment banker and author of The Preparation Principle. He specializes in helping business owners get the maximum value from their exits. In this episode, he breaks down the pattern he sees most often: owners who go to market underprepared, find out their financials don't match their assumptions, and watch deals fall apart.
This episode walks through what it actually takes to prepare for a business sale -- starting with the most common mistake Eric sees, entrepreneurs who don't know their real EBITDA, all the way through the five-person professional team you need, the tax strategies that can save millions before a deal closes, and the question most founders never answer until they're already at the closing table: who are you after you sell?
What you'll walk away with: Why EBITDA mismatch is the number one exit killer and how to fix it before you go to market. The five professionals every entrepreneur needs at least two to three years before selling -- and why your existing attorney is almost certainly not on the list. The wealth management and tax strategies that can save you millions if you start early enough. How to structure earn-outs so buyers can't manipulate your payout. And the identity question most entrepreneurs avoid until it's too late.
Get The Preparation Principle by Eric Coonrod at ecoonrodco.com
Connect with Eric Coonrod on LinkedIn
Hosted by John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann, Entrepreneurs United is built for founders and leaders who want straight talk on building businesses that actually work. New episodes every week.
EP 300: Mastering Accountability, A Guide for Leaders & Entrepreneurs w/ John St.Pierre & Rich Hoffmann
Are you actually holding people accountable, or are you just making them nervous?
In this milestone 300th episode of Entrepreneurs United, co-hosts John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann go deep on one of the most misunderstood leadership skills: accountability. Rich has been coaching leaders and entrepreneurs on this for years, and what he finds is consistent: most leaders have inherited a definition of accountability that quietly works against them.
In this episode, Rich and John break down the real two-step process for accountability that actually works: collecting a genuine commitment and following up on facts, not feelings.
What you'll walk away with: why accountability is a support system, not a punishment, and what that means in practice. The three-part commitment that closes every accountability gap: who, what, and when. Why letting people set their own deadlines makes commitment more likely to stick. How to tell if a pattern of missed commitments is a commitment problem or a competency problem. The TSP method (Truthful, Specific, Positive) for reinforcement that builds accountability into your culture.
Hosted by John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann, Entrepreneurs United is built for founders and leaders who want straight talk on building businesses that actually work. New episodes every week.
https://entrepreneursunited.us/links/
About Entrepreneurs United
Hosted by John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann, Entrepreneurs United is built for founders and leaders who want straight talk on building businesses that actually work. New episodes every week.
EP 299: How to Lower Dementia Risk: 12 Science-Backed Strategies w/ Dr. Yogesh Shah
What if you could detect Alzheimer's years before any symptoms appeared and stop it?
Dr. Yogesh Shah is a Board-Certified Geriatrician and Mayo Clinic-trained memory specialist who has spent 25 years focused entirely on the early detection and prevention of dementia. In this episode, he makes a case that every entrepreneur in their 40s and 50s needs to hear: the window to protect your brain is now. Not at 70. Not after a diagnosis.
America spends 20% of its GDP on healthcare, and nearly all of it goes to disease management. Dr. Shah explains why that approach is failing, what Mild Cognitive Impairment is and why it matters, and how a new FDA-approved blood test can identify Alzheimer's pathology years before any symptoms appear. He walks through the 14 lifestyle factors identified in the Lancet study that can reduce dementia risk by up to 45%, and explains how monoclonal antibody infusions are now removing amyloid plaque from the brains of patients caught early enough.
What you will walk away with: an understanding of why 40 to 50% of dementia cases go undiagnosed and the real-world consequences, what the new p-tau blood tests are and how to ask your doctor about getting one, which lifestyle factors carry the most risk weight for entrepreneurs, and why managing your LDL, sleep, social connection, and chronic conditions in midlife is the most important thing you can do for your future brain health.
Connect with Dr. Yogesh Shah on LinkedIn
Hosted by John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann, Entrepreneurs United is built for founders and leaders who want straight talk on building businesses that actually work. New episodes every week.
https://entrepreneursunited.us/links/
EP 298: The Art of Scaling: Don't Be The Operator, Be The Owner! w/ Cliff Nonnenmacher
Are you building a business or building yourself a job?
Cliff Nonnenmacher is the founder of Franocity, a franchise consulting firm that has spent 25 years helping investors and displaced executives identify scalable franchise brands with real liquidity and exit potential. His core message is simple: the owner who still works in the business after year one almost never builds an empire.
In this episode, Cliff breaks down exactly what separates the 1.4-unit franchise owner from the one who owns 10, why spreading across multiple territories before you dominate one is a wealth trap, and how to build the team, systems, and leadership culture that allow you to step out of the van for good.
What you'll walk away with: Why going a mile deep and an inch wide is the most powerful territory strategy in franchising. The 5 KPIs every owner needs to track to work on the business, not in it. Jack Welch's four E's and a P framework for hiring leaders who actually scale. The real reason "if you want it done right, do it yourself" is the most financially suppressive advice you can follow. How Franocity's free consulting model works and how to connect with Cliff.
Access Cliff's free franchise discovery consultation at franocity.com
Connect with Cliff Nonnenmacher on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/cliffnonnenmacher
Hosted by John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann, Entrepreneurs United is built for founders and leaders who want straight talk on building businesses that actually work. New episodes every week.
https://entrepreneursunited.us/links/
EP 297: From Earning to Keeping: Insights - w/ Tom Malesic
Most entrepreneurs are great at making money. Keeping it is where things fall apart.
Tom Malesic is the founder and CEO of EZSolution, EZMarketing, and EZComputer, three businesses built at the intersection of digital marketing, IT support, and operational systems. He is also a certified EOS implementer who came to EOS after struggling with profitability in his own companies and realizing that generating revenue and holding onto it are two completely different disciplines.
In this episode Tom walks through how EOS transformed his leadership team by creating clarity, accountability, and a 90-day focus that stopped the cycle of chasing shiny pennies. He breaks down the IDS framework, why most teams waste it by discussing instead of identifying the real root issue, and why core values are not inspiration but the actual answer to which people belong on the bus. He also shares actionable insights from all three of his disciplines: the cybersecurity tools every small business owner should have today, why organic SEO closes deals faster than any paid channel, and how AI is already reshaping marketing for companies willing to adapt.
What you will walk away with: Why earning money and keeping it are two separate skills and how EOS closes the gap between them. How IDS actually works and why most teams never get past the discussion phase. Why core values are hiring and firing criteria, not words on a wall. The cybersecurity tools every small business owner should have right now. Why organic SEO beats paid advertising for deal velocity and how good SEO drives better AI search rankings too.
Download Tom's new book They're Looking For You at https://www.ezmarketing.com/theyre-looking-for-you/
Connect with Tom Malesic on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommalesic/
Hosted by John St.Pierre and Rich Hoffmann, Entrepreneurs United is built for founders and leaders who want straight talk on building businesses that actually work.
New episodes every week.
https://entrepreneursunited.us/links/
EP 296: Why Q1’s 90-Day Checkpoint Is the Most Underrated Discipline in Business w/ John St.Pierre & Rich Hoff
Q1 is over. Do you know if you hit your numbers?
Most entrepreneurs set goals in January, forget about them by March, and don't look again until mid-year when the damage is already done. In this episode of Entrepreneurs United, hosts John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann break down the single most underrated discipline in business: the 90-day checkpoint.
They walk through every format, from a simple 4-hour scorecard review to a full two-day leadership offsite, and share exactly what a high-performing quarterly reset looks like at every stage of your company's growth.
What you'll walk away with: Why the Q1 offsite is the most critical one of the year and what happens if you skip it. How to run a vulnerability-based trust exercise that can transform team dynamics in a single session. The IDS framework, which stands for Issue, Discuss, and Solve, and how to turn recurring problems into actual decisions. Why 90-day sprints matter more now than ever in a world where things change every single week. The role reversal exercise John uses to break cross-division deadlock and get two teams aligned fast.
Reach Rich Hoffmann at https://trustedleadershipcoaching.com/
John St. Pierre at 100mjourney.com.
Hosted by John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann, Entrepreneurs United is built for founders and leaders who want straight talk on building businesses that actually work. New episodes every week.
https://entrepreneursunited.us/links/
About Entrepreneurs United
Hosted by John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann, Entrepreneurs United is built for founders and leaders who want straight talk on building businesses that actually work. New episodes every week.
EP 295: Get Your Sales Success Rate to 90% w/ Bryan McDonald
Why are you closing 20% when you could be closing 90%?
Bryan McDonald has spent 25+ years in sales and has a simple rule: don't make an offer unless you're 90% sure it's getting accepted. As a partner at onPurpose Growth, he helps coaches, consultants, and experts who came from corporate America build businesses that focus on leverage, not volume.
In this episode, Bryan breaks down why most people fail at sales and how to fix it. It's not about getting more leads. It's about getting better at qualifying the ones you have and building a sales process that gets agreement before you ever send a proposal.
What you'll walk away with:
How to position yourself uniquely in the marketplace instead of sounding like every competitor. The 3-5 step sales process that gets small commitments leading to the bigger commitment. Why you need to agree on problem, solution, and price before making any offer. How to leverage your past corporate experience to serve small and medium businesses. The focus and leverage game versus the volume game for coaches and consultants.
Join Bryan's free sales community at paidwhatyouareworth.com
Connect with Bryan McDonald on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/mcdonaldbryan/ or check out his newsletter at onpurposegrowth.substack.com
Hosted by John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann, Entrepreneurs United is built for founders and leaders who want straight talk on building businesses that actually work. New episodes every week.
https://entrepreneursunited.us/links
About Entrepreneurs United
Hosted by John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann, Entrepreneurs United is built for founders and leaders who want straight talk on building businesses that actually work. New episodes every week.
EP 294: Your Business Is Worth What Someone Will Pay For It w/ Jessica Fialkovich
Are you planning to sell your business someday but have no idea what it is actually worth or whether it is ready?
Jessica Fialkovich has been inside more than 2,000 business exits across 75 industries. She is the author of Exit Factor: Increased Value and Profits for Your Business and the founder of a 52-location exit planning franchise. She also sold her own company before it was ready, paid too much in taxes, and handed it to the wrong buyer. The business failed two years later and every employee lost their job. That experience is the foundation of everything she now teaches.
In this episode, Jessica walks through what actually drives business value, the most common mistakes entrepreneurs make when preparing to exit, and what to do differently starting today.
What you'll walk away with:
Why business value is based on a weighted average of three to five years, not one great year. The 85-point qualitative checklist that determines where your business sits in the valuation range for your industry. How asset sale taxes actually work and why most sellers are completely blindsided. Why vetting a single buyer is the most expensive exit mistake and what a real buyer process looks like. The one thing to do today and the one commitment that will protect your exit no matter when it happens.
Connect with Jessica Fialkovich on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicafialkovich/
Hosted by John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann, Entrepreneurs United is built for founders and leaders who want straight talk on building businesses that actually work. New episodes every week.
https://entrepreneursunited.us/links
EP 293: 212 Degrees: The Extra Degree That Transforms Leadership and Culture w/ Sam Parker
What is the difference between water that is just hot and water that produces real power? One degree.
Sam Parker, author of the bestselling book 212 the extra degree, joins John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann to talk about the concept that has shaped how thousands of leaders build teams, set culture, and show up every single day. Over a million copies sold, and Sam recently brought the rights back and revised the book entirely. In this conversation he shares not just the metaphor but the full leadership framework he has built around it over 20 years.
In this episode, Sam breaks down what a 212 culture actually looks like in practice, why most leaders unknowingly undercut their own teams, and the four-part model he has refined for leaders who want to build something worth staying for.
What you'll walk away with: the two boxes framework and what every leader leaves behind. Four leadership principles every founder needs to hear: act as you want your team to act, talk with them often, help them grow, and change things when needed. Why leading by control destroys team trust faster than anything else. What a 212 culture actually feels like, and why it is not a never-ending grind. And the selfless leadership mindset that changes everything when you finally get your ego out of the way.
Download Sam's free book sample of 212 The Extra Degree at https://212spark.com
Connect with Sam Parker on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/samparker212/
Hosted by John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann, Entrepreneurs United is built for founders and leaders who want straight talk on building businesses that actually work. New episodes every week. https://entrepreneursunited.us/links.
EP 292: Cultivating Hope, Keys to Employee Retention w/ John and Rich
Do you actually know why your best people leave?
Most leaders think they do. Most are wrong. Rich Hoffmann was asked recently if he thinks people leave companies. His answer stopped the conversation cold: they don’t leave companies. They lose hope. Hope in the career path, in the culture, in the relationship with the person they report to. And once that hope is gone, no raise brings it back.
In this episode, John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann dig into the real drivers of retention and what leaders consistently get wrong before someone walks out the door.
What you’ll walk away with: The top 3 predictors of turnover and why all three are fixable if you catch them early. Why the shift from manager to leader to mentor is the retention strategy most leaders skip. How TSP recognition changes the culture of an entire organization. Why getting in the field to observe your people doing the work is one of the most underused leadership tools available. And why helping a struggling long-tenured employee win beats cutting them every time.
Hosted by John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann, Entrepreneurs United is built for founders and leaders who want straight talk on building businesses that actually work. New episodes every week.
https://entrepreneursunited.us/links
Hosted by John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann, Entrepreneurs United is built for founders and leaders who want straight talk on building businesses that actually work.
EP 291: How to Win When AI Can Do Everything You Do w/ Mark Schaefer
What if the greatest disruption in the history of marketing is not coming for your job but for your customer?
Mark Schaefer is a bestselling author, keynote speaker, and a top marketing strategist. In this episode he discusses his book Audacious and explains why competence alone now makes people and businesses vulnerable and ignorable in an AI-driven world. He walks through how ChatGPT's launch sparked an existential moment for him, and then lays out a clear path for entrepreneurs to out-human AI through disruptive storytelling, human connection, and emotional resonance.
Mark argues that the best defense any entrepreneur has against AI is a strong personal brand built on trust, and that small businesses are structurally positioned to win in ways large companies cannot replicate because you cannot delegate vulnerability to an advertising agency. He also breaks down his four-step personal brand framework and describes what it takes to build an audience that evolves from social followers to engaged subscribers to a loyal brand community.
What you will walk away with: Why competence alone now makes you ignorable and what to build instead. How to out-human AI through disruptive storytelling and emotional resonance. Mark's four-step personal brand framework and how to finish the sentence "only I." How to build an actionable audience that grows from followers to subscribers to brand community. Why small businesses have a structural advantage large companies simply cannot replicate.
Visit businessesgrow.com for Mark's free weekly ideas, blog posts, and resources.
Connect with Mark Schaefer on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/markwschaefer/
Hosted by John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann, Entrepreneurs United is built for founders and leaders who want straight talk on building businesses that actually work. New episodes every week.
https://entrepreneursunited.us/links/
Hosted by John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann, Entrepreneurs United is built for founders and leaders who want straight talk on building businesses that actually work. New episodes every week.
EP 290: Random Acts of Marketing Are Costing You More Than You Know w/ Charlie Sells
Are your marketing dollars quietly disappearing with nothing to show for it?
Most entrepreneurs aren't losing because of bad strategy. They're losing because of confusion they can't see. Brand strategist Charlie Sells calls it "random acts of marketing" and after 15 years helping businesses untangle complexity, he's seen it destroy brands that had every reason to succeed.
In this episode, Charlie breaks down the real cost of unclear direction, why most marketing audits miss the point, and the exact 7-step framework he uses to bring clarity to any business in 30 days.
What you'll walk away with:
- The 3 phrases that reveal a clarity problem in your business and why most owners never catch them.
- A 1-hour marketing audit you can run this week to cut waste and find what's actually working.
- Why AI is a tool and not a cure, and what to do before you touch it.
- The 7 Cs framework: Curiosity, Context, Competitiveness, Consistency, Conciseness, Clarity, and Creativity.
- How problem-first positioning wins more customers than any tagline ever will.
Take Charlie's free Clarity and Alignment Self-Assessment at clearovereverything.com.
Connect with Charlie Sells on LinkedIn
Hosted by John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann, Entrepreneurs United is built for founders and leaders who want straight talk on building businesses that actually work. New episodes every week. https://entrepreneursunited.us/links/
EP 289: How to Get 75 Hours of Work Done in a 24-Hour Day - w/ Ari Meisel
What if you could only work one hour a day? In this episode, Ari Meisel, founder of Less Doing, shares the mindset and systems that helped him rethink productivity, build a more replaceable role as a founder, and create dramatically more output without doing everything himself.
After a Crohn’s disease diagnosis forced him to conserve energy, Ari began asking a better question: What actually needs to be done, and what truly needs to be done by me? That question led to his OAO framework: Optimize, Automate, Outsource.
Ari breaks down how entrepreneurs can stop being the chef, cook, and bottle washer in their own business by building real systems, not just relying on hustle. He shares how to create an effective idea-capture pipeline, why async communication can give founders back control of their time, and how he built an AI chief of staff to handle everything from scheduling and social media to budgeting, disputes, and follow-up tasks.
John and Rich also unpack what it really means to measure productivity, where AI can create leverage without adding complexity, and how founders can start reclaiming hours right away.
If you want to work less, achieve more, and build a business that does not depend on you for every decision, this episode is for you.
Learn more: https://www.linkedin.com/in/productivity-coach-entrepreneur/
EP 288: 10 Proven Ways Entrepreneurs Can Double Their Revenue (Without More Ads) w/John & Rich
10 Macro Sales Moves to Double Your Revenue in the Next 2 Years
If you’re an entrepreneur who wants aggressive growth in 2026 and beyond, this episode is for you.
Too many business owners say they want to grow… but they’re relying on hope instead of strategy. In this conversation, we break down 10 practical sales moves that can help you grow your business 50%–100% over the next two years.
We talk about getting back to the fundamentals that actually drive revenue:tapping into your network, asking for warm introductions, re-engaging past customers, knowing your numbers, and doubling down on marketing channels that are already working.
We also cover how to align your entire team around growth with incentives, how partnerships and independent contractors can expand your reach, and why strengthening your delivery systems gives your sales team the confidence to sell bigger.
The big idea:If you want to double your business, you don’t just need new strategies—you need 10x the right activity.
In this episode:
• How to activate your network for new opportunities
• Why grassroots sales tactics still outperform digital noise• The importance of knowing your KPIs and conversion metrics
• How to generate more revenue from past customers
• Why incentives and culture drive growth
• How partnerships can help you scale faster
EP 287: The Downtasking Revolution - w/ Gary Nealon
If you’re building a business right now, you’ve probably felt it, marketing is shifting fast.
In this episode, serial entrepreneur and author Gary Nealon joins us to break down what AI, GPTs, and changing search behavior really mean for small businesses. We talk about why traditional SEO is no longer enough, how brands can show up inside AI-generated answers, and why platforms like Reddit are becoming a powerful trust layer for buyers.
Gary also shares his concept of “downtasking”, a simple but powerful framework for assigning dollar values to your daily tasks so you can stop doing low-value work and focus on what actually scales. From leveraging virtual assistants to building custom GPTs inside your company, this conversation is packed with practical ideas founders can use immediately.
We also dive into: • Why so many businesses plateau around $750K–$1M in revenue • The danger of falling in love with your product instead of your customer • Why failing fast beats waiting for perfect • How data can reveal who your real buyer actually is
If you feel stretched thin, stuck in the weeds, or unsure how AI fits into your growth strategy, this episode will challenge your thinking in the best way.
Listen in and ask yourself: What should I stop doing this week?
EP 286: Choosing Confidence, A Journey to Communication Mastery w/Karen Laos
What makes someone sound like a leader, even before they have the title?
In this episode of Entrepreneurs United, John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann sit down with communication expert Karen Laos to unpack the subtle shifts that instantly elevate your presence, credibility, and influence.
Karen shares why the first person to speak is often perceived as the leader, how your “focus face” may be working against you, and the fastest way to eliminate filler words without sounding robotic. You will learn practical frameworks you can apply immediately, including how to stop rambling in real time with one simple phrase, how to make direct asks that actually get results, and how small language tweaks can either shrink your authority or amplify it.
Karen also opens up about the pivotal boardroom moment that shaped her mission to help women stop over apologizing, minimizing their expertise, and waiting for permission to speak.
If you run meetings, pitch clients, lead teams, negotiate deals, or want to be taken more seriously when you speak, this episode delivers clear, actionable insights you can use today.
After listening, ask yourself: What is one communication habit you are ready to change this week?
Timestamps
00:00 The Power of Speaking First
00:41 Introduction to Karen Laos
01:05 Understanding Communication Challenges
02:03 The Importance of Self-Awareness
03:39 Improving Your Presence
05:02 Mastering Public Speaking
08:54 Bringing Fun into Professionalism
14:59 The Confidence Key: Asking for What You Want
22:11 Empowering Women Executives
24:41 The Power of Speaking First
25:29 How to Stop Rambling
26:04 The Impact of Language on Mindset
27:57 Interpreting Word Choice in Communication
29:10 The Role of Gratitude in Communication
31:27 Effective Communication Techniques
35:02 Coaching on Communication Skills
40:59 Final Thoughts and Reflections
Connect with Karen Laos
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenlaos/
Book, Trust Your Own Voice: https://karenlaos.com/book/
Free Guide, 9 Words to Avoid: https://karenlaos.com/words-to-avoid/
The Confidence Cocktail™ Self-Assessment: https://karenlaos.com/confidence-cocktail-fb/
EP 285: Mindful Listening Creating Space in Conversations w/John & Rich
What if the most powerful skill in your business is not pitching, persuading, or presenting… but listening?
In this episode, John and Rich break down why elite entrepreneurs and coaches treat listening as a strategic advantage. From boardrooms to client calls to personal relationships, the ability to truly hear what is being said, and what is not being said, can change everything.
They share practical tools you can implement immediately: pausing before responding, validating what you heard, asking better follow up questions, taking notes to stay present, and recognizing patterns over time. They also unpack real challenges founders face, especially mental drifting during virtual meetings and missing key nonverbal cues.
If you want to build stronger trust, make better decisions, and communicate at a higher level, this conversation will sharpen one of the most overlooked skills in entrepreneurship.
Listen in and ask yourself: are you really listening, or just waiting to talk?
EP 284: Building Real Connections with Your Audience: Insights w/ Ben Albert
Ben Albert, founder of Grow Getters Only, joins John St.Pierre and Rich Hoffmann to explore what it really means to build authentic relationships in business. From overcoming personal adversity to building communities that grow together, Ben shares tactical insights on moving beyond parasocial connections to create meaningful impact. This episode dives into the "Plus, Minus, Equals" model, why long-form content still wins, and how to turn your audience into a collaborative ecosystem. If you're tired of surface-level networking and ready to lead with connection, this one’s for you.
🎯 Topics Covered:
The loneliness of OnlyFans (and what it teaches us about audience depth)
Why real community requires more than DMs and likes
Leveraging mentors, peers, and mentees for exponential growth
From isolation to inner circle: building intentional business tiers
👉 Perfect for: entrepreneurs, creators, marketers, community builders
🎧 Listen in and discover how to grow through people, not just platforms https://entrepreneursunited.us/links/
EP 283: Embracing AI Building Business Value w/ Benjamin Johnson
In this episode of Entrepreneurs United Podcast, hosts John St.Pierre and Rich Hoffmann are joined by Ben Johnson, founder and CEO of Particle 41, to discuss the transformative power of AI and data in modern businesses. They explore the challenges of AI integration, the importance of understanding business metrics, and strategies for improving operational efficiency. Ben emphasizes the necessity of a structured AI transformation strategy and the need for clear problem identification. Tune in to learn how AI can take your business to the next level through actionable insights and practical applications.
00:00 The Rise of Voice as the New Interface
00:44 Introduction to Ben Johnson and Particle 41
01:20 Maximizing Business Value with AI and Data
02:17 AI Transformation Strategy: Training, Automation, and Ag Agentic
05:43 Real-World Applications of AI in Business
13:42 The Role of Automation and Custom Solutions
18:09 Preparing Your Business for AI Integration
21:39 Challenges and Future of AI in Business
25:01 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways
26:23 Conclusion and Contact Information
27:08 Hosts' Reflections and Insights
EP 282 From the Boardroom to the Bedroom: Applying Business Skills to Relationships w/ Dr. Robin Buckley
💼❤️ Can business strategies save your relationship? Absolutely.
In this episode of Entrepreneurs United, hosts John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann sit down with Dr. Robin Buckley, top couples coach and author of Marriage, Inc., to explore how high-performing entrepreneurs can apply proven business tools to build stronger, more fulfilling personal relationships.
Dr. Buckley breaks down how to:
Create a mission and vision statement for your relationship
Understand and strengthen all 5 types of intimacy
Use the 80/20 rule to increase happiness at home
Build a communication system that actually works
Whether you’re scaling a company or a long-term relationship, this episode offers actionable strategies to lead better in every area of life.
🎙️ Guest: Dr. Robin Buckley
Author of Marriage, Inc. | Couples Coach | Keynote Speaker
Connect with Dr. Buckley:
Website: drrobinbuckley.com
Instagram: @drrobinbuckley
LinkedIn: Dr. Robin Buckley
EP 281: Simplifying Entrepreneurship: Breaking Free from the Business Trap w/ Liz Chism
What if the fastest path to growth is not adding more, but cutting the clutter?
In this episode, John St.Pierre and Rich Hoffmann sit down with Liz Chism, a coach who helps contractors scale without the chaos. Liz shares her unlikely path from growing up in a third-generation construction family to running a craft brewery that taught her the hard lesson of being trapped in a business. That experience led her to build a framework that helps owners create businesses that run with strong teams, clear accountability, and habits that actually stick.
You will hear Liz’s “business is like a house” model, built on a strong foundation and four pillars, along with her Five S framework: Simplify, Strategize, Systems, Sustaining, and Scaling. The conversation dives into why SOPs so often fail, how leadership makes them work, and why every SOP should tie to a measurable outcome so it stays alive instead of collecting dust.
If you want to stop owning a job and start building a self-sustaining business, this episode delivers practical insight you can apply immediately.
Learn more about Liz Chism at lizchism.comConnect with her on Instagram or Facebook via DMs
EP 280 Remembering Rich Wilson: Lessons from a Life of Leadership
This episode is a tribute to Rich Wilson, President and CEO of Paul Davis Restoration, and a leader whose impact reached far beyond the companies he led.
Originally recorded as a candid conversation on leadership and entrepreneurship, this re-released episode captures Rich’s philosophy on accountability, culture, mentorship, and what it truly means to lead without excuses.
Rich believed leadership was a skill that could be developed, that results must be owned, and that people matter as much as performance. His lessons will surely continue to guide entrepreneurs, executives, and emerging leaders who strive to build strong teams and meaningful organizations.
🎙 You will hear insights on:
Taking full responsibility as a leader
Hiring the right people and holding high standards
Balancing assertiveness with active listening
The power of mentorship and learning through failure
Leading with clarity, integrity, and purpose
We invite you to listen again or for the first time, and to reflect on the leadership lessons Rich Wilson so generously shared.
EP 279: The Best of 2026, Lessons That Shaped Our Journey - w/ John & Rich
52 episodes. One year. The lessons that actually mattered.
In this special Entrepreneurs United year-in-review episode, John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann break down the most impactful insights they pulled from a full year of conversations with leading entrepreneurs, operators, and thinkers.
This isn’t a highlight reel. It’s a reflection on what stuck, what changed how they lead, and what they’re carrying forward into the next year.
You’ll hear takeaways on reading people without judgment, why fun belongs in serious businesses, how to think differently about profit and cash flow, the role of intentional health in performance, and how long-term thinking shapes real generational wealth.
If you’re an entrepreneur closing one chapter and preparing for what’s next, this episode will help you slow down, zoom out, and move forward with clarity.
Listen in, take what resonates, and bring it with you into the year ahead. Subscribe to Entrepreneurs United for weekly conversations built for founders who want more than surface-level growth.
EP 278: Why Your Business Feels Broke (Even When Sales Are Up) w/ Austin McMillian
You’re closing deals. Revenue looks strong.So why does your business still feel broke?
In this episode, Austin McMillian delivers a hard truth most entrepreneurs avoid: sales do not equal success. If you’re not tracking the right numbers, you’re working harder than a W2 job for less freedom, more stress, and thinner margins.
We unpack why service-based business owners get stuck chasing growth while profits disappear, how messy financials quietly sabotage great businesses, and the simple metrics that actually determine whether your company survives or fails.
If you’ve ever thought:
“We’re busy, but the bank account never reflects it”
“Sales will fix this eventually”
“I don’t really understand my P&L, but I should”
This episode is for you.
Austin breaks down labor efficiency, simplified financial buckets, and why profit has to come first, not last. No fluff. No finance jargon. Just clarity for entrepreneurs who are tired of grinding without winning.
👉 Want to connect with Austin?Find him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-mcmillan-62a13181/
If your business feels heavier than it should, press play.
Ep 277: Stop Following Up, Start Closing Same-Day Sales w/ Justine Beauregard
Most entrepreneurs are stuck in a sales cycle that feels exhausting, awkward, and ineffective. Endless follow-ups. Discount pressure. Conversations that stall instead of close.
In this episode, John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann sit down with award-winning sales strategist and coach Justine Beauregard to challenge everything entrepreneurs have been taught about selling. Justine explains why follow-up is often a symptom of a broken sales process, how aligned sales create urgency without manipulation, and what needs to change if you want to close deals faster and with more confidence.
You’ll hear why promoting top sellers into leadership roles can damage teams, how founder-led sales should evolve as companies scale, and why refining your sales framework delivers one of the fastest and most measurable ROI opportunities in any business. Justine also breaks down her BUILD and MAKE frameworks, showing how sales can feel human, intentional, and effective while still driving same-day decisions.
If sales feels heavy, pushy, or inconsistent in your business, this conversation will reframe how you approach every sales conversation.
To connect with Justine and learn more about her work, visit whyyouhatesales.com or connect with her on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/sellwithjustine.
EP 276: Drowning in AI Content? Here’s How to Stand Out with Soul w/Jim Edwards
Most entrepreneurs are using AI to save time. But what if it's costing you your edge?
In this episode, we’re joined by Jim Edwards, the OG of copywriting and content strategy, to unpack one of the most overlooked dangers in modern business: the rise of "pretty good" AI content. Jim breaks down why relying on AI for sales copy, blogs, and social media is creating a flood of mediocrity and how to escape it.
He introduces two powerful acronyms:
DATA: Default Answers to Anything (aka your AI-generated “meh” content)
SOUL: Stories, Opinions, Unique perspectives, and Lessons learned (aka your secret weapon)
Whether you're a founder, marketer, coach, or creator, this episode will help you rethink how you use AI—not as a replacement, but as a multiplier of your authentic voice.
🚀 Ready to curate, not just create? Start with soul.
🔗 Watch & listen now: https://entrepreneursunited.us/links/
About Jim Edwards
Jim is a best-selling author, speaker, and founder of CopyandContent.ai, empowering entrepreneurs to write books, craft killer sales messages, and build authority through authentic content. He was one of the first to publish an ebook online (yes, that early) and has helped hundreds of thousands elevate their message since 1997.
📘 Explore his tools & training: https://copyandcontent.ai/
📚 Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejimedwardsmethod/
📸 IG: @thejimedwards
EP 275: Are You Building a Team of Clones? w/ John & Rich
Mark Zuckerberg says you should only hire someone if you'd be happy to work for them in an alternate universe. But John and Rich push back: could that mindset quietly lead to building a team of “lookalikes”? In this episode, they unpack the risks of hiring for comfort over complement, how values alignment trumps personality match, and why culture-fit hiring often misses the mark.
Whether you're scaling a team or making your next leadership hire, this episode will challenge the way you think about recruitment, trust, and what makes a team truly effective.
🎧 Send this one to any founder who's about to make a key hire - https://entrepreneursunited.us/links/
EP 274: Marketing Like It’s 1985 And Why That Works in 2026 w/ John Moran
Are your marketing reports showing high ROAS and CTR, but your profits are flat? You are not alone.
In this episode of the Entrepreneurs United Podcast, John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann sit down with John Moran, co-founder of Solutions 8 and strategist behind over $150 million in ad spend.
John breaks down why traditional platform metrics—like likes, clicks, and conversions—are no longer reliable. Instead, he explains how to measure real marketing performance through your P&L, gross profit, and customer acquisition cost (CAC).
You will learn:
How to calculate what you can really afford to spend to acquire a customer
Why most agencies are optimizing the wrong things
How to simplify your strategy using old-school business math
What questions to ask your marketing team today
This episode is packed with real-world examples and powerful insights to help you scale smarter, not just spend more.
Tune in to transform how you measure growth and start making marketing decisions that actually move your business forward - https://entrepreneursunited.us/links/
EP 273: Turn First‑Time Buyers Into Raving Fans w/ Joey Coleman
What if you focused on keeping your customers (and employees) instead of just finding new ones?
Join us with retention expert Joey Coleman to get the 8‑phase playbook every founder needs.
EP 272: Crisis Proof Your Business w/ Mike Swenson
What would you do if your business faced a crisis tomorrow?
In this episode, we sit down with PR strategist and crisis expert Mike Swenson, founder of CrisisTrak, to break down the 5-step system every entrepreneur needs to be ready for their worst day in business.
From social media slip-ups to legal issues, wire fraud, and brand-threatening headlines — Mike explains how to prepare, respond, and communicate effectively under pressure.
Whether you’re a solo founder or leading a team of 50+, this episode gives you the blueprint to protect your brand, your people, and your bottom line.
We cover:
✔️ What to say and who to say it to when crisis hits
✔️ How to map out risks before they take you down
✔️ The #1 mistake entrepreneurs make under pressure
✔️ Why crisis planning impresses investors and retains top talent
✔️ Real-life examples from political offices to global brands
Learn more about Mike: 🔗 https://crisistrak.com 🔗 https://linkedin.com/in/mikeswenson1
EP 271: Slash Waste & Protect Your Profit: The Zero-Based Budgeting Playbook w/ John & Rich
Most entrepreneurs budget the wrong way. Are you one of them?
In this episode, John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann unpack the brutal truth behind traditional budgeting and reveal the strategy that helped cut 2 million dollars in expenses while increasing profit: zero-based budgeting.
If you're building your 2026 plan by tweaking last year’s numbers, you're likely just carrying over waste. This episode walks you through the 5 steps to rebuild your budget from scratch, make tough decisions with clarity, and finally protect your bottom line.
You’ll learn:
Why most budgets fail to serve real growth
How to flip your P&L to focus on profit first
What expenses are silently killing your business
A practical framework to slash waste and scale intentionally
This is not about trimming around the edges. It’s about rebuilding with purpose.
If you're serious about growing a more profitable, focused business in 2026, this episode is your blueprint.
EP 270 Work Less, Earn More: How AI is Powering Profitable Solopreneurs w/ Heidi DeCoux
Serial entrepreneur Heidi DeCoux joins us to share how her new startup, Cashflowy, is helping solopreneurs take control of their finances using AI. From ditching spreadsheets to tracking the right KPIs, Heidi breaks down how creators, coaches, and freelancers can finally understand their numbers, keep more of what they earn, and work fewer hours.
We talk about the rise of AI-backed humans, the biggest financial mistakes entrepreneurs make, and why the first billion-dollar one-person business is closer than you think.
Listen or watch the full episode: https://entrepreneursunited.us/links/
Learn more about Cashflowy: https://cashflowy.ai
Connect with Heidi: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cashflowyai/people
EP 269: Fix Your Business, Don’t Fund It, Profit First Principles w/ Mike Michalowicz
Most entrepreneurs chase revenue, then wonder why there’s no profit left at the end of the year. In this episode, Profit First author Mike Michalowicz joins hosts John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann to break the cycle. Mike explains why flipping your formula to “Revenue minus Profit equals Expenses” changes everything.
You’ll learn how to:
Expose hidden inefficiencies and pricing mistakes
Balance profit and culture without sacrificing either
Build a team using his “teach first” hiring method
Identify and fix the weakest link in your business
Mike also shares fresh insights from his books Profit First, Fix This Next, and All In, helping you create a business that serves you, not the other way around.
🎙️ Tune in to Entrepreneurs United for the practical truth about money, leadership, and sustainable growth.
EP 268: Strategic Endings: How Smart Entrepreneurs Know When to Move On w/ John & Rich
What if the hardest decision is the one that unlocks your next level?
In this episode, John St.Pierre and Rich Hoffmann dive deep into why strategic endings are critical for entrepreneurial growth. Inspired by a powerful conversation with winemaker and business leader Jay Raffaldini, they explore the mindset behind cutting ties; whether it's with an underperforming employee, a stale partnership, or even a version of yourself that no longer fits.
John shares personal reflections on family and identity as his sons leave home, while Rich lays out a practical framework for making tough calls in business and in life.
If you’ve ever struggled with knowing when to walk away or how to do it with grace, this episode is for you.
👉 Learn how to navigate endings with clarity and compassion👉 Discover how letting go opens doors to growth👉 Leave with actionable steps to make your next tough decision a smart one
Hit play to start making space for what’s next.
#Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #Leadership #NecessaryEndings #Mindset
EP 267: The Entrepreneur’s Guide to Building Trust and Endless Customers w/ Marcus Sheridan
Every entrepreneur wants more customers. Few are willing to do what it really takes to earn their trust. In this episode, marketing and sales expert Marcus Sheridan joins John and Rich to share the communication playbook that helped him turn a struggling pool company into a multi-million dollar brand.
Marcus reveals the "Big Five" questions every buyer is thinking about but most businesses avoid: cost, problems, comparisons, reviews, and best-of lists. He explains why answering these questions honestly is the fastest way to build authority and close more deals.
You will also learn Marcus’s storytelling framework, his question-only sales technique, and a powerful tool for handling objections called the pushback pivot. Whether you are leading a team, creating content, or closing deals, these strategies will help you connect faster, sell more effectively, and stand out in your market.
This episode is not about gimmicks. It is about mastering communication that builds trust and drives long-term growth.
Listen now and get practical tools you can start using today.
EP 266: Shatter Your Entrepreneurial Fishbowl w/ Tim Regan and Daughter Madeline
Entrepreneurs, are you living in a fishbowl without even knowing it? In this episode of the Entrepreneurs United Podcast, Tim Regan, author of Shatter Your Fishbowl, and his daughter Madeline share powerful lessons on breaking free from scarcity, embracing risk, and living the Two Comma Life.
Tim opens up about the fears that once held him back, how he shattered his own fishbowls, and why abundance always trumps scarcity. Madeline offers her perspective as the next generation, showing how one person’s breakthrough can inspire an entire family to dream bigger.
If you are ready to step outside your limits and build a business and life filled with freedom, generosity, and abundance, this father–daughter conversation will show you the way.
EP 265: The Dead Sea Effect: Why Stale Relationships Kill Business Momentum with John & Rich
Why is the Dead Sea dead? Because nothing flows in, and nothing flows out. In this episode, John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann use this powerful metaphor to explore why relationships, both personal and professional, stagnate without movement.
They dig into the tough questions every entrepreneur should ask: Who is adding value to your circle, and who is quietly draining it? How do you know when it is time to bring in fresh perspectives or let someone go? And what happens to your business when you hold onto the wrong people for too long?
From the importance of pre-judging where to invest your time, to why inviting someone new to coffee could change your future, John and Rich share candid stories and actionable insights you can apply immediately.
If you have ever felt stuck with your team, your network, or your relationships, this conversation will challenge you to rethink how you manage your inner circle and your business growth.
00:00 Introduction: Vetting People in Our Lives
00:39 Personal Relationships: The Dead Sea Analogy
02:23 Judgment and Prejudice in Relationships
05:28 Building New Relationships: Challenges and Reflections
15:34 Business Relationships: The Importance of New Blood
21:57 Conclusion: Networking and Personal Growth
🎧 Listen now to learn how to keep the water flowing, avoid stagnation, and build the kind of network that fuels success.
EP 264: How to Scale Company Value with One Powerful Number w/ Lee Benson
In this episode of the Entrepreneurs United Podcast, hosts John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann sit down with Lee Benson, a seasoned entrepreneur with multiple high-value company exits. Lee dives into the concept of acting like the CEO of your own role and introduces his 'Mind Management System,' a groundbreaking approach to aligning every team member toward value creation.
Lee shares:
Why execution is more important than strategy
How to define your most important number across teams
The leadership traits that matter most for scaling
How to build a culture of productive engagement
What readiness for growth really means
Whether you're scaling up or recalibrating your business, this episode provides invaluable insights into creating lasting value for your organization, your employees, and your customers.
Tune in to discover how to elevate your company’s value and foster a culture where everyone contributes like an owner.
Timestamps 00:00 The CEO Mindset: Owning Your Role 00:27 Introduction to Lee Benson and Execute to Win 01:05 The Importance of Execution in Business 01:42 Diving into 'Your Most Important Number' 02:22 Creating Value Holistically 03:35 The Mind Management System 05:02 The Role of Leadership in Value Creation 07:00 Designing Roles for Productive Engagement 09:09 Setting Up a Business for Success 21:21 The Value Creation Flow Structure 25:28 Traits of Effective Leadership 26:52 Readiness for Growth 28:47 Engaging Employees in Value Creation 39:06 Final Thoughts and Resources 42:22 Driving Productive Engagement and Value Creation 43:04 The Mind Management System: A 50-Year Success Story 44:27 Creating Value Across Different Business Functions 45:56 The Importance of Productive Engagement 48:27 Setting Up a New Company for Success 49:26 The Role of Management Operating Systems 51:20 Aligning Teams to Create Value 01:01:52 Leadership Traits and Readiness for Growth 01:17:04 The Fair Exchange of Value in Employment
Connect with Lee Benson Website: https://www.etw.com/leadership-value-lab LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/execute-to-win
#Entrepreneurship #Leadership #BusinessGrowth #Execution #ValueCreation #StartupStrategy
EP 263: Stop Dabbling and Start Scaling with AI w/ Dan Goodstein
EP 263: Where SMBs Should Really Start with AI w/ Dan Goodstein
AI is changing everything—but where should small and medium-sized businesses begin?
In this episode, Dan Goodstein (President of IRPA AI and founder of TheBusinessTherapist.org) joins us to break down how entrepreneurs can leverage AI for real results. From automating sales and marketing to optimizing operations and productivity, Dan shares what’s working now and where to focus your energy.
You’ll learn:
Why AI is a massive opportunity for SMBs
The best place to start (hint: it’s not operations)
How to avoid “shiny object syndrome” with AI tools
The 7 business blind spots most entrepreneurs miss
Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed or ready to lead with AI, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you scale smarter.
🎧 Tune in and learn how to future-proof your business.
Connect with Dan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielgoodstein/
Website: https://dangoodstein.com/businesstherapist/
EP 262: Stop Selling Leads, Start Delivering Clients w/ James Donovan
Mastering Sales & Scaling Revenue with James Donovan
What do door-to-door sales in Australia and high-ticket deals for CPAs have in common? James Donovan.
In this episode, James shares how he went from knocking on doors to building a company that delivers high-margin clients to fractional CFOs and accountants. We dive into his approach to lead generation, sales process optimization, and how he handles objections like "the leads are bad" by owning the entire sales funnel—from click to close.
You'll learn:
Why persistence beats talent in sales
How to qualify clients before they qualify you
The power of niching down and systematizing growth
Why James is planning to buy an accounting firm (despite hating accounting in school)
Whether you're scaling a service business, running B2B sales, or just looking to sharpen your revenue strategy, this episode is full of actionable gems.
🎧 Tune in and take notes https://entrepreneursunited.us/links/.
#EntrepreneursUnited #B2BSales #FractionalCFO #SalesStrategy #LeadGeneration #RevenueGrowth
EP 261: Build Wealth That Lasts Generations w/ Jay Raffaldini
How do you build wealth that lasts beyond you?
In this episode of the Entrepreneurs United Podcast, hedge fund veteran and North Carolina winery owner Jay Raffaldini joins John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann to share powerful lessons on entrepreneurship, adaptability, and multigenerational wealth.
Jay unpacks why most family wealth disappears by the third generation, how to structure businesses so they cannot be sold off too easily, and what it really takes to preserve both money and legacy. From Wall Street trading floors to vineyards, he reveals strategies for risk management, perseverance, and teaching future generations the value of ownership and work.
Whether you are scaling your business, thinking about your family’s future, or simply looking for entrepreneurial wisdom from someone who has lived it, this episode is full of insights you can put into action today.
EP 260: Fire Yourself to Grow Faster w/ Jake Tlapek aka “The Wizard”
This week, we’re joined by Jake “The Wizard” Tlapek, CGO of Finch and no-fluff marketing strategist helping entrepreneurs turn confusion into clarity and clarity into growth.
In this high-impact conversation, Jake breaks down:
Why 99% of businesses are ignoring the biggest free marketing opportunity
The "One Strategy, One Offer, One Channel, One Year" framework
How to fire yourself from day-to-day tasks and scale with focus
The most common misstep even great founders make
When (and why) to work with an agency vs. building in-house
Whether you're stuck in the weeds or scaling fast, Jake shares how to build systems that rank, convert, and grow without guessing your way through marketing.
🔥 Bonus: Hear how Jake mapped a 100-person org chart when his agency had just 2 people and used it to break through growth walls on the way to 50+ employees.
🧠 Key Takeaway: You don’t need more ideas. You need to simplify, stay consistent, and build with purpose.
📲 Follow Jake the Wizard:
Website: thewizard.marketing
Agency: finch.com
TikTok & IG: @thewizardmarketing
X (Twitter): @JakeTtheWizard
🎧 Like this episode? Follow Entrepreneurs United for more real talk with founders, operators, and builders turning vision into execution.
EP 259: Crisis of Meaning What to Do When You Want to Quit w/ John & Rich
In this episode of the Entrepreneurs United Podcast, hosts John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann break down the Transition Curve every business owner experiences. From the rush of uninformed optimism to the low point of crisis of meaning, they explain how to recognize if you are facing a temporary challenge or a sign it is time for a major change.
You will learn:
How to push through tough times with patient ambition
Why you should pause before making big business decisions
How to identify burnout versus true business misalignment
Ways to coach your team through their own highs and lows
The importance of long-term perspective for steady growth
Whether you are in your first year or your twentieth, understanding the transition curve can help you make better decisions, manage emotions, and lead your team with confidence.
00:00 Introduction to the Entrepreneurs United Podcast
00:06 Understanding the Transition Curve
00:55 Navigating the Crisis of Meaning
01:44 The Importance of Perseverance
04:16 Coaching Through Challenges
11:33 The Role of Patience and Procrastination
13:56 Balancing Business and Personal Life
15:47 Long-Term Perspective in Business
21:31 Communicating the Transition Curve to Employees
23:55 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
EP 258: From Overwhelmed to CEO: The Formula to 4X Productivity w/ David Wood
In this powerful episode of the Entrepreneurs United podcast, executive coach and author David Ian Wood (Get Paid For Who You Are) unpacks the mindset shifts and practical tools entrepreneurs need to escape overwhelm and operate like true CEOs.
David introduces the concept of our three internal personas—the Worker, the CEO, and the Creative—and explains how most leaders stay stuck in reactive mode instead of making strategic, high-impact decisions. You’ll also hear how his revolutionary Whisper.coach AI app delivers real-time feedback on calls, helping you become a better leader, communicator, and coach—without distractions.
Plus, David dives into the Pomodoro technique, the difference between time boxing and time blocking, and his transformational model of leading with humility and dignity. He even shares insights from his unexpected venture into pickleball coaching, showing how passion and business can mix in surprising ways.
Whether you're looking to 4X your productivity, improve your leadership presence, or leverage AI for growth, this episode delivers actionable insights and fresh thinking for ambitious entrepreneurs.
Timestamps: 00:00 Multiple personalities: Worker, CEO, Creative 01:37 David's AI venture: Whisper Coach 06:13 The future of coaching & therapy with AI 11:45 The 4X productivity formula 22:04 Redefining confidence through humility 27:31 Humility vs. dignity in leadership 32:13 Building a business from pickleball 34:50 Daily focus using the Pomodoro technique 37:47 Free tools & final takeaways
Listen now to unlock your inner CEO and lead your business with clarity and focus. #EntrepreneursUnited #FocusCEO #WhisperCoach #ProductivityHacks #LeadershipDevelopment
EP 257: The CEO's Guide to Longevity & Peak Performance w/Jimmy St. Louis
What if your health is your greatest business strategy?
In this powerful episode, former NFL player and founder of Agentis Longevity, Jimmy St. Louis, shares how elite entrepreneurs can optimize their performance by thinking more like athletes. From personalized diagnostics to values-based living, Jimmy offers a clear roadmap to help you live longer and lead better.
If you're ready to move beyond “sick care” and start taking proactive control of your health and energy, this conversation is a must-listen.
Timestamps & Key Moments:
00:00 Introduction to Blue Zones and Longevity
00:47 Meet Jimmy St. Louis from AGENTIST Longevity
01:57 Jimmy's Journey: From Athlete to Longevity Advocate
04:10 The Need for Proactive Healthcare
05:49 Bridging the Gap: Knowledge to Action
09:35 Comparing Athletes and Entrepreneurs
13:35 The Importance of Values and Routine
23:15 Father-Daughter Retreat Experience
25:09 Understanding AGENTIST Longevity
29:31 Closing Thoughts and Takeaways
Subscribe to the Entrepreneurs United Podcast:
https://entrepreneursunited.us/links/
📩 Connect with Jimmy St. Louis & Agentis Longevity: 🌐 Website: https://www.agentishealth.com
📧 Email: info@agentishealth.com
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmystlouis/
EP 256: Build a Business You Can Sell (But Might Never Want To) w/ Vince Perri
In this episode of Entrepreneurs United, hosts John St.Pierre and Rich Hoffmann sit down with Vince Perri, an entrepreneur, business broker, and certified exit planning advisor. Discover why preparing for an exit is a smart move for every business owner, and how building a well-oiled machine can give you ultimate freedom, whether you decide to sell or keep your business.
You’ll learn:
The most important mindset shift for long-term wealth
Vince’s unique “Four Cs” framework to scale, systemize, and boost company value
How to leverage AI for SOPs and leadership training
Why your personal wealth goals should guide your business decisions
How to avoid common hiring mistakes as you grow
You will also get tips on the “models method” for better communication, plus hear real stories from Vince’s own journey scaling and exiting companies.
If you enjoyed this episode, follow Entrepreneurs United, leave us a rating, and share your favorite takeaway. For more strategies and expert insights on building, scaling, and exiting your business, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.
Connect with Vince Perri:
Instagram: @vinceperriofficial
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vinceperriofficial/
Website: vinceperri.com
#BusinessExit #Entrepreneurship #ScaleYourBusiness #SOPs #AIForBusiness
EP 255: The Most Overlooked Growth Habit in SMBs: Quarterly Offsites w/ John & Rich
In this episode of the Entrepreneurs United Podcast, hosts John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann explore the crucial role of quarterly offsite meetings in building successful businesses. They discuss the benefits of stepping away from the day-to-day operations to reassess core values, set strategic goals, and develop vulnerability-based trust within teams. The conversation highlights the differences between the EOS and The Advantage frameworks, effective meeting structures, and practical advice for implementing impactful offsite sessions. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting, this episode offers valuable insights into fostering better communication, stronger teamwork, and sustained business growth. Don't miss this eye-opening discussion that could transform how you manage your team!
00:00 Introduction to the Entrepreneurs United Podcast
00:07 The Importance of Quarterly Offsites
01:34 Comparing Traction and The Advantage
05:26 Challenges and Benefits of Offsites
10:01 How to Start Your Own Quarterly Offsite
15:22 The ROI of Offsites
20:36 Effective Meetings and Organizational Health
23:00 Conclusion and Call to Action
EP 254: If You’re Not Visible, You’re Forgettable: Visibility that Converts w/ Crissy Conner
Crissy Connor, a visibility strategist and business coach joins the podcast to discuss the importance of visibility for entrepreneurs. Crissy shares her three key principles of visibility: seeing yourself first, taking actions to be seen, and ensuring your audience feels seen. She emphasizes being intentional with content, serving and supporting your audience, and using techniques to make your audience feel understood. Crissy also touches on the importance of authenticity, using AI as a supportive tool, and establishing a CEO state for better productivity. Tune in for valuable insights on how to enhance your social media presence and build genuine connections with your audience. Don't miss Crissy's tips on leveraging video content, managing algorithms, and creating a credible, lasting impact.
00:00 Introduction to Visibility
01:06 Common Mistakes in Visibility
02:51 The Three Pillars of Visibility
04:51 Understanding Audience Engagement
06:58 The Role of Algorithms in Visibility
12:51 Authenticity and Imperfection in Content
14:30 Leveraging AI for Content Creation
16:01 Building Trust in a Digital World
19:45 The Power of Overdelivering
23:58 Balancing Social Media and Business
31:39 The Role of AI in Business
36:50 Final Thoughts on CEO State
Ep 253: The 5 Pillars to Stay Sane as an Entrepreneur w/ Andrew Poles
Andrew Poles, an executive coach with over 20 years of experience, discusses the critical balance between success and fulfillment, the importance of structure to manage entrepreneurial demands, and the vital role of leadership. Dive into thought-provoking insights on transforming identity, enhancing communication, and maintaining integrity in business. Ideal for entrepreneurs seeking practical guidance on scaling their businesses without compromising their well-being.
EP 252: Harnessing the Power of Strategic Selling w/ Joe Candido
Why Great Products Need More Than Just Themselves: Strategies for Entrepreneurial Success
Joe Candido, co-founder of the Executive Crash Course and founder of Fifth Element Associates, describes the crucial elements needed for entrepreneurial success beyond just having a great product. Joe emphasizes the importance of having a well-thought-out strategy, a go-to-market plan, and effective outbound selling techniques. The discussion also delves into the concept of the 'fifth element' in business growth, practical coaching methods for sales teams, and navigating the complexities of scaling a business up while maintaining core values. If you're an entrepreneur looking to unlock the secrets to sustained growth and effective leadership, this episode is a must-watch!
00:00 The Myth of 'Build It and They Will Come'
00:29 Introduction to the Entrepreneurs United Podcast
00:44 What is the Fifth Element?
01:18 Components of the Fifth Element
02:24 Challenges Entrepreneurs Face
03:16 The Importance of a Go-to-Market Plan
04:03 Understanding Your Market and Value Proposition
05:34 Case Study: Starbucks Experience
06:54 Live Case Example: Growing a Construction Company
08:30 Navigating Growth and Scaling Challenges
11:15 Aligning with the Right Customers
13:50 Balancing Customer Requests and Core Competencies
16:04 Customer Collaboration and Trust
17:42 The Imperfection of Life and Projects
17:56 Introduction to Leadership Selling
18:04 Target Audience and Purpose of the Book
19:14 Sales Management Challenges and Solutions
20:28 The Importance of Coaching in Sales
24:08 B2B vs. B2C Sales Strategies
25:17 Actionable Advice for Entrepreneurs
25:50 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
26:15 Post-Interview Discussion: Leveraging Technology in Sales
28:06 The Importance of Customer Feedback
29:07 Time Management and Prioritization for Entrepreneurs
36:34 Final Reflections and Future Topics