Michele DeFilippo has more than 50 years of experience in book publishing. Her company, 1106 Design, makes it easy for authors to release a topquality book, keep control of it, and earn more money every time they sell a copy. Michele is on a mission to help authors ask the right questions, avoid scams, and make informed decisions when they search for publishing service providers.

1106 Design provides end-to-end book design, production and publishing services for independent authors who seek all the quality of traditional publishing without forfeiting their rights and royalties in return.

1106 Design is a team of experienced publishing industry professionals dedicated to managing every step of your project, from the first draft to a beautifully finished book in all formats. Once completed, your book will be available for sale in the online and retail outlets of your choice.

What sets 1106 Design apart is their commitment to your financial success. They help you set up book distribution accounts in your name, ensuring that every penny of net revenue—after retailer discounts and printing costs—is deposited directly into your bank account. This often results in significantly higher earnings per book sold compared to traditional publishing models.

If this sounds like the right approach to achieving your publishing goals, contact 1106 Design today. The team will reach out to learn about your book and answer any questions you may have.

Based in Phoenix, Arizona, 1106 Design works with non-fiction and fiction authors worldwide.

Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest

Want to learn more? Check out 1106 Design website at

https://1106design.com/

Check out 1106 Design on LinkedIn at

https://www.linkedin.com/company/1106-design-llc/

Check out Michele DeFilippo on LinkedIn at

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-defilippo-824247

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In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with Blair LaCorte, the Managing Director of LaCorte Ventures. The discussion delves into Blair's diverse career journey, the challenges that contemporary business leaders face, and the transformative role of technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), in shaping business operations. This blog post will break down the key insights and actionable advice shared during the episode, providing a comprehensive guide for business leaders looking to navigate today's complex business landscape.

Josh opens the episode by inviting listeners to explore opportunities for connecting with partners, investors, and clients. He shares insights from his extensive experience, having spoken with over 2,000 leaders about their best business practices. Josh offers a free video class on his website, Up My Influence, where he outlines strategies for generating high-ticket sales appointments without relying on spam or ads. He emphasizes the importance of building relationships and invites potential guests to join his podcast. Blair LaCorte shares his unique career trajectory, which he humorously likens to that of Forrest Gump due to its diverse experiences. He recounts his upbringing in a family of entrepreneurs, with both parents running their own businesses. This early exposure to the challenges of entrepreneurship shaped Blair's understanding of business dynamics.

As the conversation shifts to contemporary business challenges, Blair identifies three primary concerns that executives are grappling with today: cultural shifts in the workplace, economic pressures, and product commoditization. He discusses the evolving nature of work culture, particularly in the context of remote work and the expectations of younger generations. Blair emphasizes the need for leaders to adapt to changing economic conditions and to find innovative solutions to manage costs and maintain efficiency. He also highlights the challenge of commoditization in products and services, stressing the importance of focusing on customer relationships. The discussion then turns to the impact of AI on business operations, where Blair shares insights from a recent AI conference he hosted. He introduces his coaching group, Mastermind Innovate, which brings together CEOs from various industries to share insights and support one another.

Blair LaCorte is a dynamic business executive and transformational leader known for his curiosity, collaboration, and competitive spirit. With a diverse career spanning entertainment, aviation, AI, aerospace, and more, Blair has led companies through growth, restructuring, and IPOs, while mentoring and coaching teams to drive success.

His passion for mentorship is reflected in his work with several coaching organizations, and his broad industry experience allows him to share best practices across sectors. Blair’s leadership style focuses on aligning teams, driving motivation, and achieving operational excellence.

An active investor and advisor to over 100 companies and nonprofits, Blair has an impressive track record of delivering growth and investor returns. He holds an MBA from Dartmouth’s Tuck School of Business and has completed executive coursework at Stanford. A space enthusiast and former NASA Innovator of the Year, Blair is an astronaut-in-training, set to fly with Virgin Galactic.

Lacorte Ventures is a family office engaged in seed investing and advisory services for early-stage venture and middle-market private companies. This includes executive mentorship, coaching and board participation focused on:

- select project-based B2B...

In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a profound conversation with Dennis Franczak, the founder and partner of Bright Matter Advisors. The discussion explores the complexities of leadership, personal growth, and the critical importance of understanding one's purpose in life and work. Dennis shares his personal journey through burnout as a CEO, the invaluable lessons he learned, and how he now dedicates his efforts to helping other executives navigate similar challenges.

Dennis Franczak's story is a compelling narrative of resilience and transformation. As a CEO for nearly two decades, he faced severe burnout that had been building over the years. In 2022, recognizing the toll it had taken on him, he decided to take a six-month sabbatical to focus on self-healing and reflection. During this time, he disconnected from the demands of his professional life and engaged in deep introspection, ultimately realizing that he had lost touch with his identity as a leader and family man. Upon returning to the professional world, Dennis transitioned into a chairman role at his former ad agency and founded Bright Matter Advisors. His mission is to assist executives in understanding their true selves, their relationships with their careers, and what they want to be known for.

A significant theme in Dennis's journey is the need for vulnerability among leaders. He discusses how executives often feel pressured to maintain a facade of strength and control, which can prevent them from seeking help when they need it. Dennis emphasizes that being vulnerable is not a sign of weakness; rather, it is a crucial step toward healing and growth. He encourages leaders to open up about their struggles and seek support before reaching a breaking point. At Bright Matter Advisors, Dennis works with high-performing professionals through one-on-one coaching, group sessions, and workshops, focusing on self-discovery, career alignment, and discovering their purpose and legacy.

Dennis Franczak is a seasoned entrepreneur and executive advisor with a deep passion for meaningful impact and legacy. With over two decades of experience, Dennis has navigated the complex landscapes of advertising and business strategy, establishing himself as a thought leader in both fields. As the founder and former CEO of a highly successful advertising agency, he possesses extensive knowledge of the latest trends in advertising and brand strategy. Today, Dennis dedicates his expertise to CEO and executive advisory, helping leaders scale their businesses, optimize sales processes, and determine the right times to buy or sell their enterprises.

Dennis's journey is marked by personal transformation. After experiencing burnout post-COVID and realizing the detrimental effects of maintaining a façade of the "perfect CEO," he took a six-month sabbatical to reconnect with his core values through therapy and self-reflection. This period of profound personal growth has equipped Dennis with unique insights into the challenges executives face, from loneliness and isolation to the struggle for authenticity in leadership.

Driven by a desire to help others avoid the pitfalls he encountered, Dennis now emphasizes the importance of work-life balance, self-awareness, and leading with authenticity. His approach is a blend of practical business strategies and motivational guidance, aimed at fostering resilience and long-term success among executives and emerging leaders alike. He believes that true leadership is about creating a lasting, positive impact and leaving a meaningful legacy.

Bright Matter Advisors is a team of former CEOs and executives who have been where you are. We've been in your shoes.

In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with Kylee Leota, the founder and chief vision officer of "Elements 4 Success." The episode delves into the nuanced concepts of success and leadership, particularly through Kylee's innovative framework known as "infinite leadership." This framework comprises eight pillars designed to help individuals define and achieve their personal and professional goals. Below, we break down the key insights and actionable advice shared during the episode.

Josh opens the episode by emphasizing the importance of thoughtful connections and networking for business growth. He shares his extensive experience of conversing with over 2,000 leaders to uncover the best sources of business success. Josh promotes a free video resource available on his website, which outlines steps to achieve 100% inbound marketing without relying on spam, ads, or sales tactics. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of success and leadership with Kylee Leota. Kylee begins by sharing her perspective on success, quoting Earl Nightingale: "Success is the progressive ongoing realization of a worthy goal or ideal." She highlights that success is a deeply personal journey, varying from person to person. Many individuals become trapped in societal expectations of success, losing sight of their unique paths. Kylee's mission is to empower and inspire others to navigate their success journeys, both personally and professionally.

Kylee observes that many leaders struggle with a sense of unconscious existence, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. People often fall back into routine, going through the motions of daily life without making conscious choices. This lack of mindfulness can hinder personal growth and success. Kylee emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, starting with the first pillar of her infinite leadership model: Identity. She encourages individuals to ask themselves: Who am I at this moment? Where do I want to be in my journey? Understanding one's identity and aligning it with personal goals is crucial for progress. This self-awareness forms the foundation for conscious living and intentional decision-making.

Kylee Leota is the founder of Elements 4 Success – a global organisation delivering transformational experiences to individuals, teams, and businesses.

Earl Nightingale defines success as “the progressive realisation of a worthy goal or ideal”.

Kylee wishes to empower people of all ages so that they can develop the confidence, skills, and tools they require to live a life of their design and purpose. She believes that you have the knowledge within yourself to create success and gives you the right tools in your toolbox to help you make these goals and ideals, reality!

After 20 years in the education sector, including leadership roles at both schools, and regional levels, Kylee wants to empower and have a positive impact, further than just the education sector: working collaboratively across sectors including complex behaviour, trauma and early intervention, as well as transition to work sectors. Her depth of experience and knowledge ensures she is adaptable to any industry.

Kylee is a change management facilitator, specialising in sustainable behaviour changes for both individuals and teams. With a track record for results, Elements 4 Success has a long list of happy clients who have achieved their goals, a team renowned for its out of the box thinking and solution focused approaches.

Elements 4 Success is a global organization delivering powerful experiences to individuals, teams, and businesses. Founded by Kylee Leota,...

In a recent episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur podcast, host Josh engages with Philip Rivers, co-founder of Talent HQ, to explore the intricacies of hiring talent, especially for small businesses. Philip shares his expertise on the common challenges business leaders encounter, emphasizing the importance of clear job descriptions and structured onboarding processes. This blog post distills key insights from their conversation, offering practical advice to help streamline your hiring process.

One of the main challenges small business owners face is identifying the right candidates, often due to unclear hiring needs. Philip highlights the necessity of defining specific skills and responsibilities for each role and crafting detailed job descriptions to attract suitable candidates. Additionally, he underscores the importance of a structured recruiting process, which includes initial screenings, structured interviews, and assessments to evaluate candidates' skills and fit for the role. Talent HQ assists businesses by streamlining these processes, ensuring a thorough understanding of client needs and implementing a rigorous vetting process.

Effective onboarding is crucial for the long-term success of new hires, yet many businesses overlook this step, leading to high turnover rates. Philip stresses the importance of documented Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), comprehensive training programs, and mentorship to help new hires integrate smoothly. Talent HQ supports businesses in developing robust onboarding processes, providing resources and continuous support to ensure new employees feel welcomed and equipped to succeed. By addressing these aspects, businesses can enhance their hiring outcomes and foster a positive work environment.

Phillip Rivers launched his career in marketing and sales by designing and selling t-shirts timed with Nike Dunks releases on niche message boards. With no access to Facebook ads, Phillip mastered the art of building and monetizing email lists, laying the groundwork for his future achievements.

Later on, Phillip founded an email marketing agency that drove over $200M in attributed revenue for its clients. The agency grew to nearly 8-figures and over 50 employees, leveraging global talent for outstanding results.

A sought-after speaker and consultant, Phillip is renowned for his actionable insights in scaling businesses, optimizing email and SMS marketing, and uncovering easy marketing wins. His methodologies have propelled some of the fastest-growing brands online to explosive growth.

Today, Phillip is using his processes for vetting top tier global marketing talent to help companies scale their output and margins with global talent.

Leading staffing agency connecting global marketing talent to their dream jobs.

Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest

Want to learn more? Check out TalentHQ website at

https://www.talenthq.co/

Check out TalentHQ on LinkedIn at

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-talenthq/

Check out Phillip Rivers on LinkedIn at

https://www.linkedin.com/in/thephilrivers/

Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next...

In this podcast episode, the host engages in a conversation with Rachel Minion, co-founder of Rockstarr and Moon, focusing on branding and B2B marketing strategies. Rachel highlights the significance of congruence in branding, using music as a universal connector to evoke emotional resonance. She elaborates on the process of filtering clients through brand messaging and offers insights into current B2B marketing trends, particularly emphasizing the effectiveness of LinkedIn newsletters and email lists.

Rachel critiques disingenuous marketing practices and strongly advocates for transparency and setting realistic expectations. She shares her perspective on how authenticity in marketing can build trust and foster stronger client relationships. Her insights provide valuable guidance for businesses looking to refine their marketing strategies in a rapidly evolving landscape.

The episode wraps up with reflections on the communal power of music and its profound impact on branding. Rachel underscores how music can unify and engage audiences, creating a lasting emotional connection that enhances brand identity. This discussion offers a fresh perspective on integrating music into branding efforts to strengthen emotional ties with clients and customers.

Rachel Minion is a force to be reckoned with—a marketing rockstarr, a relentless cancer warrior, and a dynamic speaker who embodies resilience, raw honesty, and unapologetic truth. With over 20 years of experience in the marketing industry, Rachel has honed her expertise to become a powerhouse of no-nonsense insights and actionable strategies that resonate deeply with her audience.

Rachel’s speaking style is direct, bold, and refreshingly real. She doesn’t just skim the surface; she dives deep into the complexities of life and work, tackling the tough topics that others shy away from. Whether navigating the unpredictable career journey, confronting the life-altering reality of a cancer diagnosis, or breaking free from societal expectations to find and amplify your unique voice, Rachel brings real talk to the table.

As a speaker, Rachel Minion is here to do more than just inspire—she’s here to provoke thought, ignite passion, and challenge your audience to push beyond the superficial. Her talks are a powerful blend of authenticity, leadership, and courage, leaving listeners not just motivated but equipped to face adversity head-on and lead with unwavering passion.

Their comprehensive services are tailored to meet current demands and ensure sustainable growth. Offers the expertise needed to jumpstart marketing efforts and drive growth. As a business expands and considers building an internal team, they will be there to provide support. They offer frameworks, playbooks, and guidance to ensure a smooth transition.

Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest

Want to learn more? Check out Rockstarr & Moon website at

https://rockstarrandmoon.com/

Check out Rockstarr & Moon on LinkedIn at

https://www.linkedin.com/company/rockstarr-and-moon

Check out Rachel Minion on LinkedIn at

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelminion

Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening....

In a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh explores the complexities of CEO leadership with Glenn Gow, a seasoned CEO success coach. With over 25 years of experience as a CEO and a background in venture capital, Glenn provides valuable insights into the unique challenges CEOs face today. The discussion highlights key themes such as managing responsibilities, people, and team dynamics, offering actionable advice for current and aspiring CEOs.

Glenn Gow's extensive experience and passion for coaching CEOs are evident as he discusses the realities of the role. Many CEOs find themselves overwhelmed by unexpected responsibilities, such as managing boards and customer relationships, which may not align with their core competencies. Glenn emphasizes the importance of adaptive leadership skills, effective delegation, and building a strong leadership team to navigate these challenges. He also advises on preparing for economic uncertainty through budget constraints, scenario planning, and leadership readiness.

The episode underscores the significance of coaching in enhancing CEO effectiveness. Glenn shares his personal experience with coaching, describing it as transformational, and highlights the benefits of skill enhancement, objective perspective, and accountability. He invites CEOs to consider a complimentary coaching session with him, emphasizing that coaching is valuable for both those facing challenges and top performers seeking new insights. The discussion also touches on the impact of AI on business, encouraging leaders to embrace new technologies for a competitive edge. Josh concludes by thanking Glenn and encouraging listeners to engage with the resources available on Glenn’s website and subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur for ongoing inspiration.

Glenn Gow is The CEO Success Coach. He was a CEO for 25 years, a venture capitalist for 5 years, and was trained by a CEO coach for 17 years. He’s a Harvard MBA, a board member and an expert in AI. He is committed to his clients’ success.

Glenn has spoken at The Wall Street Journal AI Conference, the National Association of Corporate Directors, MIT/Stanford Venture Lab, Harvard Business School, The Private Directors Association, Silicon Valley Directors Exchange, the Association for Corporate Growth, The Entrepreneur’s Organization, and the Northern California Venture Capital Association

. He writes an AI column for Forbes and has been published in Directors & Boards, Directorship (NACD), The Chief Executive Group, Inc. Magazine, and InfoWorld. As a CEO for 25 years, he advised numerous leading tech companies including Apple, Google, Microsoft, and many more, on strategy.

Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest

Want to learn more? Check out Glenn Gow website at

https://www.glenngow.com/

Check out Glenn Gow on LinkedIn at

https://www.linkedin.com/in/glenngow

Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!

We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE.

Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you.

In the latest episode of our podcast, host Josh sits down with Matthew Fornaro, a seasoned business law attorney and founder of Matthew Fornaro, P.A.. The discussion delves into the critical legal considerations for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), emphasizing the importance of a solid legal foundation for business success. This blog post will break down the key insights shared by Matthew, offering actionable advice and thorough explanations to guide entrepreneurs in navigating the legal landscape of business ownership.

Matthew Fornaro is introduced as a business law attorney with a focus on litigation (90%) and transactional work (10%). His practice primarily serves small and medium-sized businesses, helping them navigate various legal challenges throughout their business lifecycle. While most of his clients are based in Florida, he also assists businesses across the country. Matthew emphasizes the necessity of having proper legal documents in place for any business. Entrepreneurs often overlook foundational documents in their eagerness to start their ventures. Essential documents every business should have include bylaws, operating agreements, contracts, rental agreements, and licensing agreements.

A key theme in Matthew's advice is the necessity of assembling a team of professionals to support business operations. Entrepreneurs should seek out a business law attorney, an accountant, and other specialists to ensure that all aspects of the business are managed effectively. This collaborative approach helps businesses navigate challenges more efficiently and positions them for success. Matthew encourages business owners to be proactive in their legal planning, including having an employee handbook, insurance, and compliance with regulations. By establishing these foundational elements, businesses can better manage potential issues before they escalate.

Matthew Fornaro has been a business law attorney serving South Florida, including Coral Springs and Parkland, since 2003. Prior to starting his own law firm, he was an attorney at a 300+ attorney civil practice law firm that served local, national, and international clients, and was also an attorney at a prestigious national law firm. Matthew practices complex commercial litigation, including contract disputes.

Matthew, a member of the Florida Bar and District of Columbia Bar, also practices construction law, intellectual property law, homeowner and condominium association representation, and drafts and revises of business documents, including the formation of business organizations. Matthew assists new business owners in choosing and drafting all legally required documents.

Matthew is involved in mentoring new attorneys, as both a graduate and instructor of the Kaufman Foundation’s FastTrac NewVenture Program, presented by the Broward County Office of Economic and Small Business Development and the City of Hollywood, as well as a graduate and instructor for the Florida State University College of Business Jim Moran Institute for Global Entrepreneurship Small Business Executive Program.

As a small business owner himself, Matthew is proud of his representation of businesses in our community and is also available to assist in all transactional and litigation needs.

Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest

Want to learn more? Check out Matthew Fornaro, P.A. website at

https://fornarolegal.com/

Check out Matthew Fornaro on LinkedIn...