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  • In this episode of *Schmidt List*, host Kurt Schmidt has a conversation with Craig Pladson from BraveCo to explore the intricacies of modern marketing. They discuss the challenges businesses face when choosing between marketing agencies that focus solely on implementation and those that provide strategic impact and measurable results. Kurt struggles to find agencies capable of developing comprehensive go-to-market strategies, instead of just executing specific tasks like SEO.

    Craig emphasizes the importance of identifying target audiences and understanding various growth factors before making promises about return on investment (ROI). Listeners gain valuable insights as Craig explains that small businesses often outsource marketing due to a lack of in-house expertise. He also highlights the necessity of having a dedicated point person to ensure campaign success.

    The discussion delves into cross-industry learnings, the shift toward flexible marketing models, and the evolution from traditional agencies of record to monthly retainer models. BraveCo, Craig's consultancy, crafts tailored marketing solutions by leveraging a network of independent professionals, focusing on client-specific outcomes such as leads and sales.

    Craig further explains the significance of understanding audience insights and the customer journey, overcoming "shiny object syndrome," and incorporating empathy into consumer engagement for effective strategies. He offers a refreshing perspective on marketing priorities, setting realistic expectations, and implementing efficient strategies to support small businesses through gradual, project-based engagements.

    For more information about BraveCo, Craig encourages listeners to visit "Go Brave Co." The conversation concludes with Kurt thanking Craig and expressing anticipation for future discussions. Tune in for an enlightening conversation about aligning marketing strategies with business goals for long-term success.

    https://gobrave.co/

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/gobraveco/

    https://www.instagram.com/gobraveco

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  • In this captivating episode of Schmidt List, host Kurt Schmidt engages with BJ, a distinguished expert in battery manufacturing and AI at Technicity. Together, they explore varying technological perspectives across generations and stress the importance of developing comfort with emerging tools. BJ highlights AI's potential to enhance productivity, encouraging executives to view it as a tool for improvement rather than a panacea for all business challenges.Tune in to discover how BJ has been pivotal in shaping AI strategies for industry leaders like Amazon and Google, focusing on practical implementations such as enterprise chatbots and consultancy. Gain insights into BJ’s understanding of AI’s crucial role in human resources, security, and data management. Kurt shares his practical experiences with tools like ChatGPT, showcasing their impact on streamlining content creation.Delve into nuanced discussions about AI's influence on the job market, the risks of over-relying on generative models, and the significant societal changes we may witness. BJ offers actionable tips for effective AI adoption and addresses controversial themes like "convergence" and maintaining creativity and diversity in AI.This episode is not just for tech enthusiasts—it's for anyone eager to comprehend the practical, ethical, and strategic aspects of integrating AI into their lives and work. Join Kurt and BJ for a thought-provoking discourse on AI's real-world applications and transformative potential. Listen now for an in-depth exploration of the ever-evolving world of technology and AI! Guest Bio:BJ is an expert in battery manufacturing and AI at Technicity, assisting Fortune 1000 companies such as Amazon and Google in leveraging AI for cost efficiency and innovation. With experience in commercial, industrial, and military applications, BJ brings knowledge to discussions on emerging technologies and their strategic implementation. Connect with BJ via LinkedIn for more insights, though messages are preferred over connection requests.Links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bjyurkovich/
    https://technicity.io

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  • In this compelling episode of Schmidt List, host Kurt Schmidt interviews Todd Fonseca, who shares his journey from corporate life to becoming an entrepreneur and leadership coach. Fonseca discusses his career transition and the importance of leadership and personal development.

    He recalls a pivotal moment during a corporate talent review that led him to explore nonverbal communication and body language. This insight turned him into a certified body language trainer and hypnotist, enhancing his coaching skills.

    Fonseca outlines his approach to managing organizational change, focusing on psychological safety, capability, and accountability. He addresses fears around change, particularly during layoffs and the rise of AI, and offers advice on building a resilient workforce. With Kurt Schmidt, they explore leadership challenges, like balancing authority with approachability and the importance of transparent communication. They introduce frameworks like the SCARF and TAPS models to help leaders in complex situations.

    From stories of compassionate management to strategies for maintaining processes during upheavals, Fonseca and Schmidt provide valuable insights for leaders. Tune in to learn how to lead authentically and effectively in uncertain times. Don’t miss Todd Fonseca’s advice on sustaining morale and productivity and Kurt Schmidt’s reflections on leadership. Whether facing structural changes or looking to improve your leadership, this episode offers actionable insights to help your team thrive.

    LInkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddafonseca/
    Website: https://www.thriving9to5.com/

    Visit Kurt’s coaching site at https://schmidtconsulting.group


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  • Join host Kurt Schmidt in this engaging episode of Schmidt List as he chats with marketing expert Danielle Fauteaux. Danielle, known for her work in building revenue generation systems and refining business development pipelines, shares valuable insights into the current challenges facing marketing agencies and service providers.

    Key topics covered include the shift from hustle culture to strategic, relationship-focused marketing, the critical need for resilience in business, and how to enhance emotional intelligence and soft skills within teams.

    Danielle emphasizes the importance of viewing lead generation as a team effort and discusses practical strategies for achieving long-term client retention and sustainable growth. This episode is packed with actionable advice for agency owners, marketing strategists, and anyone keen on confidently navigating the evolving market landscape.

    Key Highlights:
    Lead generation as a team sport.Post-pandemic market challenges.Building resilient marketing agencies.The importance of relationship-focused marketing.Enhancing team emotional intelligence and soft skills.Strategic advice for impactful approaches heading into 2025.Connect with Danielle Fauteaux:
    LinkedIn:Danielle Fauteauxhttps://gettingmomentum.com/

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  • In this episode of Schmidt List, host Kurt Schmidt talks with Lauren Buckley, co-founder of the Hush Collaborative, about actionable messaging, strategic initiatives, and barriers to effective collaboration and employee engagement.

    Lauren highlights the importance of organizational audits focusing on strategy, systems, and human factors to reduce the high failure rates of strategic (90%) and change initiatives (70%). They emphasize engaging employees and leadership across all levels to drive successful change. They discuss leadership's short-term focus and the tendency to overlook the human aspect of change management, leading to employee dissatisfaction.

    Lauren shares her approach to creating actionable plans, engaging leaders, and fostering a culture where employees feel safe declining non-productive tasks, with examples of reducing workload and transitioning to revenue-generating models. They address challenges from legacy leadership's focus on quantitative measures and the importance of operational efficiency.

    Key themes include structured meetings, clear decision-making, and developing professional skills like communication. Lauren also stresses how minor organizational changes can lead to major improvements, valuing internal networks over formal processes.

    Join us as Lauren Buckley discusses breaking down silos, building community, and fostering engagement through transparency. Discover how her team provides solutions that enhance work processes and reduce waste, helping clients achieve revenue improvements and create fulfilling work environments.

    Don’t miss her insights on successful organizational change, the difference between culture and community, and the unique approach of Hush Collaborative. For more insights, follow Hush Collaborative:
    https://www.hushcollaborative.com/
    https://isbu.substack.com/
    @honestforgood
    @isaidbuckleup

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  • In this enlightening episode of the Schmidt List, host Kurt Schmidt is joined by Anne Steiner, a strategic advisor at NerdNoir, to delve into the evolving landscape of product development and innovation in the post-pandemic world.

    As a master networker, Kurt opens up about the dynamic energy he derives from community interactions, setting the stage for a rich conversation on the importance of in-person engagements, even as remote work becomes the norm.

    Anne Steiner emphasizes the timeless value of learning from others' mistakes, enriched by her industry experiences. Kurt and Anne advocate for a culture where mistakes are celebrated as essential steps toward innovation. The discussion transitions into the current state of agile methodologies, noting their decreased prominence and the maturation of processes in industries like finance and pharma.

    They explore the critical role of technology and the evolution of product management as a competitive edge, highlighting the lack of standardization and the broad scope of responsibilities faced by product managers today. Steiner and Schmidt stress the need for team-based goals to ensure alignment across various organizational roles and discuss the complexities of maintaining efficient operations in high-level organizational structures.
    Anne shares insights on the pandemic's impacts on product development workflows, from increased reliance on AI and no-code solutions to the shift toward virtual meeting cultures. She critiques the overreliance on processes and tools at the expense of delivering true market value.

    The episode also touches on the stress of asynchronous communication and the necessity of intuitive leadership in remote settings. Personal anecdotes and practical advice underscore the importance of in-person connections, customer engagement, and diverse perspectives in driving innovation and success.

    Kurt and Anne conclude by offering valuable resources for founders and product managers. They discuss the benefits of networking, startup incubators, and continuous learning through experiential methods over traditional media. Whether you are a seasoned product manager or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode provides knowledge and inspiration to enhance your product development journey.

    For more information on Anne Steiner and NerdNoir, visit nerdnoir.com or connect with Anne via LinkedIn. Tune in for an episode packed with insights that will help you navigate and excel in the complex world of product development.

    www.nerdnoir.com
    [email protected]
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/annesteiner/


    Check Out The SOLO CLUB! https://schmidtconsulting.group/soloclub/

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  • In this insightful episode of Schmidt List, host Kurt Schmidt sits down with Bob Freytag, a seasoned marketing expert and partner at Introworks, a specialized marketing agency with over three decades of experience.

    Bob delves into the meticulous research methodologies used at Introworks, highlighting the importance of deep individual interviews in understanding a company's ecosystem—from products and competitors to customer mindsets. He shares their structured approach, from exploration meetings to crafting strategic narratives and narrowing down messaging into clear, market-tested ideas that resonate with the target audience.

    The discussion emphasizes the critical role of market feedback in shaping brand messaging, the necessity of preparing sales teams with practical tools, and the challenges of maintaining regulatory compliance in highly regulated industries like medical technology and fintech. Bob also introduces their proprietary tool, Trueview, which aids in aligning market perceptions with the company’s messaging.

    Listeners will gain valuable insights into the importance of branding, authenticity, and client education. Bob and Kurt explore how understanding and connecting with clients can lead to market success, illustrated by real-world examples of successful marketing repositioning and product launches.

    Tune in to discover the nuances of working within regulatory constraints while maintaining creativity, the significance of continuous learning in marketing, and the power of listening to and collaborating with your audience.

    For more information and to connect with Bob Freytag and Introworks, visit their website at intro.works, subscribe to their quarterly newsletter, "The Catalyst," or reach out directly via email or LinkedIn.

    Join us for a deep dive into the art and science of effective marketing in complex industries!

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  • In this enlightening episode of Schmidt List, host Kurt Schmidt discusses networking with esteemed guest Mike Adams.

    Mike, an experienced sales and marketing professional, shares his insights and expertise on becoming a "super-connector"—a career path dedicated to facilitating valuable introductions.
    We explore the principles of intentional networking and the tools that make it effective, such as the IntroStars platform, which Mike is developing to help people monetize their networking skills. Mike outlines how being a superconnector can create more opportunities and provide substantial financial benefits.

    Listeners will gain practical tips on navigating networking events, framing oneself as a helper rather than a seller, and effective icebreakers to kickstart meaningful conversations. Mike also shares advice for introverts on making the most out of networking without feeling pressured.

    Kurt and Mike discuss the ethical dilemmas of spam and cold outreach, emphasizing the value of trusted relationships and manual efforts in lead generation. Mike’s perspective on using LinkedIn as a powerful tool for maintaining and managing professional relationships offers fresh, actionable insights.

    With stories from Mike’s 28-year career in major tech companies and his transformative journey from an introvert to a "Networking King" in London, this episode is packed with valuable lessons for anyone looking to enhance their networking strategy. Tune in to discover how networking can be a joyous and serendipitous journey contributing to personal and professional growth.

    https://introstars.com
    https://linkedin.com/in/supermike

    There is too much Schmidt to List!

    Check out https://www.kurtschmidt.me for more show info.

    Visit Kurt’s coaching site at https://schmidtconsulting.group

    Subscribe to The Road Map Newsletter and unlock the secrets to achieving a harmonious work-life balance as a leader. https://bit.ly/RoadMapNewsletter

    New Book! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D2C61THR

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  • In this riveting episode of "Schmidt List," host Kurt Schmidt sits down with Nathan Young, fractional COO, founder, and author of "How to Be Second." Together, they delve deep into the concept of personal and professional growth, emphasizing the value of the support role in leadership. Nathan shares his unique journey and the realizations that led him to embrace his role as an integrator, rather than a traditional entrepreneur.

    Key topics include:
    Main Character Concept: Exploring how seeing oneself as the main character can foster a victim mentality.Personal Growth: The importance of exposing oneself to diverse perspectives and situations for genuine growth.Facing Fears: Kurt shares a personal anecdote about overcoming his fear of guns through education and practice.Work-Life Balance: Discussing the different attitudes towards work and the impact on personal identity.Guest Spotlight: Nathan introduces his book, "How to Be Second," and a new matchmaking service for leaders and supporters.Networking and Mentorship: The necessity of building a sustainable network and the transformative power of mentorship.Productivity Techniques: Insights into time blocking, changing work environments, and maintaining focus.Role Specialization: The importance of clear role definitions and the emotional journey of embracing the "second" role.
    Listen in as Kurt and Nathan offer valuable advice on intentional networking, professional accountability, and the multifaceted nature of leadership roles. Whether you're a solo entrepreneur or a seasoned leader, this episode is packed with insights to help you navigate your professional journey with clarity and confidence.

    Resources and Links:

    - Nathan Young’s book, "How to Be Second," is available now from major publishers, including an audiobook version.

    - Visit http://howtobesecond.com for more information on Nathan’s work and to join his community. https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathan-s-young
    - Subscribe to Nathan's newsletter for updates and more leadership insights.
    - Check out Kurt’s "The Little Book of Networking" for a solid framework on intentional networking.

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/schmidt-list-inspiring-leaders--2664825/support.

  • In this insightful episode of Schmidt List, host Kurt Schmidt interviews John Hoeft, the president of Interactive Circle and founder of The Agency Builder.

    After almost 30 years of experience in launching digital marketing services, John is sharing his expertise in helping solopreneurs and business owners to successfully launch their agencies. Learn about the innovative agency operating system that Interactive Circle uses to help new agencies build their tech stack, generate new business, and more. John delves into the details of marketing and sales, discussing the common challenges new agencies face and the importance of having a strong marketing strategy.

    Discover how their approach, which emphasizes strong leadership, effective project management, and a broad network of service providers, sets agencies up for success without the need for constant hiring and firing. Kurt and John also discuss the crucial role of content marketing and how it continues to evolve in the digital age. They cover the tools and strategies essential for modern marketing success, from web development to paid search, social media, and storytelling. Whether you're a seasoned marketer or a business owner looking to expand into the marketing world, this episode is full of valuable insights and advice.

    Key takeaways:
    The inner workings of Interactive CirCircle'sency operating systemThe critical mistakes new agencies make and how to avoid themTips on building robust marketing strategies that stand the test of timeThe evolving landscape of content marketing and its importanceHow to utilize platforms like LinkedIn for B2B marketingFor more information, connect with John!

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnhoeft/
    www.theagencybuilder.com
    www.iacircle.com


    Tune in to Schmidt List and get the expert guidance you need to build a thriving agency!

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  • Welcome to the Schmidt List Podcast!

    In this episode, Host Kurt Schmidt interviews Ben Dueck, a leadership development consultant who shares insights on generational differences in leadership and workplace challenges.

    Key Topics:
    - Generational Differences in Leadership
    - Workplace Loyalty, Work-Life Balance, Work Ethic
    - Technology and Social Media Impact on Brain Chemistry
    - Balancing Flexibility and Authority in Management
    - Transitioning from Individual Contributor to Leader
    - The Need for Structured Leadership Training
    - Intentional Strategies to Empower Leaders and Managers
    - Importance of Development Opportunities in Organizations
    - Learning from Others and Coaching Methods
    - Self-Care: Nutrition, Exercise, and Sleep for Leaders
    - Hope-Filled Leadership: Inspiring Teams
    - Coaching vs. Commanding in Leadership
    - Feedback and Advice in the Workplace
    - Addressing Divisiveness, Mental Health, and Technological Challenges
    - Gallup Studies on Successful Management Characteristics

    Connect:
    - Follow Kurt Schmidt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/-kurtschmidt/
    - Connect with Ben Dueck on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-dueck/
    - Explore Cantera Leadership:www.canteraleadership.com
    - Follow Cantera on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cantera.leadership/

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  • In this episode, host Kurt Schmidt interviews Douglas Slakey, a transplant surgeon and chair of health system science at Belmont University Frist College of Medicine. Slakey discusses the importance of simulation training in healthcare, which prepares professionals for unexpected situations and improves patient outcomes. He shares an example where simulation led to the use of ultrasound for kidney dialysis with better results.

    The conversation highlights the value of leadership participation in simulations to boost communication and empathy. Slakey underscores the need for clear vision and outcome articulation to drive change. At Belmont University, he is building a center for health system science to innovate and transform healthcare sustainably.

    Key discussion points include aligning education with patient needs, translating data into action, and managing healthcare complexities with empathy and compassion. Leadership qualities emphasized are focusing on broader goals, welcoming diverse opinions, and considering the interconnected roles in patient care.

    Slakey introduces his book, "The Process Manifesto: Improving Healthcare in a Complex World," which explores these themes and is available on Amazon. He advocates for an "adhocracy" approach, empowering frontline workers akin to NASA's strategy, and treating employees as valuable assets.

    Listeners can learn more about Slakey's work at processhealthconsulting.com.

    There is too much Schmidt to List!

    Check out https://www.kurtschmidt.me for more show info.

    Visit Kurt’s coaching site at https://schmidtconsulting.group

    Subscribe to The Road Map Newsletter and unlock the secrets to achieving a harmonious work-life balance as a leader. https://bit.ly/RoadMapNewsletter

    New Book! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D2C61THR

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  • Welcome back to Schmidt List! In this compelling episode, host Kurt Schmidt sits down with Phillip Brown, an expert in automating project management and selecting the right project management software for today’s businesses. This episode is a must-watch if you're interested in AI integration, project automation, cloud-based project management tools, or agile methodologies.

    Phillip Brown delves deep into how AI revolutionizes project management roles, turning them from hands-on operations to advisory positions. He emphasizes that project leaders must now equip themselves with management and humanity skills to effectively collaborate with AI. This episode also covers the transition from antiquated Excel spreadsheets to dynamic, cloud-based, or accessible project management software, highlighting the importance of refining existing processes for better transparency and alignment.

    Key Topics Covered:
    - Automating project management
    - Choosing the right project management software
    - Impact of AI on project management jobs
    - AI and machine learning in project management
    - Cloud-based project management tools
    - Agile project management methodologies
    - AI security concerns and legal issues
    - Industry-specific AI adoption (finance, pharma, healthcare)
    - Custom tool sets for project management
    - Importance of data and reporting in project management

    Phillip Brown shares insights on how companies are moving towards agile approaches, working in two-week increments and continuously reviewing progress. He also discusses how highly regulated industries are cautious about AI, leading many companies to develop large language models trained on internal data.

    This episode addresses the merger of project management and product management roles. It underscores an organization's need to adopt an agile methodology, warning that large companies risk falling behind more agile competitors. We also explore Apple's innovative approach of creating small internal startups to foster agile experimentation.

    Phillip offers invaluable advice on staying informed about the latest advancements in AI and project management. From YouTube influencers reviewing AI tools to newsletters in AI, he believes in learning from the programmers who create this tech, not just those who comment on it.

    Key Quotes:
    - "AI won't remove project management jobs, but it will change their role."
    - "Transparency and alignment are crucial in preventing budget and project mishaps."
    - "Automation and machine learning can help identify and mitigate potential issues in projects."

    Learn more about Phillip Brown and connect with him on LinkedIn. [email protected]

    There is too much Schmidt to List!

    Check out https://www.kurtschmidt.me for more show info.

    Visit Kurt’s coaching site at https://schmidtconsulting.group

    Subscribe to The Road Map Newsletter and unlock the secrets to achieving a harmonious work-life balance as a leader. https://bit.ly/RoadMapNewsletter

    New Book! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D2C61THR

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  • Jim Cuene, a digital marketing and emerging technologies expert, joins Kurt Schmidt on the Schmidt List podcast to discuss career transitions, entrepreneurship, winding down a business, and finding focus. Cuene shares his professional journey working at agencies and corporations like Cicerone, Go Kart Labs, General Mills, American Express, and Ameriprise Financial before starting his firm, Fahren.

    Cuene and Schmidt discuss the challenges of closing a business, handling employee well-being during transitions, outstanding client payments, and lease negotiations. They emphasize the importance of being intentional, kind, and in the right headspace when making significant career changes or winding down a company.

    Schmidt talks about his approach to gaining market feedback, building a community, and providing value through webinars, ebooks, and agency scorecards. He highlights the mindset of abundance and the value of a trusted network when starting a new venture. The conversation also touches on the uncertainty of career trajectories, the need for personal ownership and accountability, and the mix of excitement and pressure when launching a new business. Cuene shares the difficulty of being honest about needs and wants and creating opportunities, while Schmidt outlines his coaching system, focusing on leadership's impact on service quality and client relationships.


    Connect with Jim! https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimcuene/

    There is too much Schmidt to List!
    Check out https://www.kurtschmidt.me for more show info.

    Visit Kurt’s coaching site at https://schmidtconsulting.group

    Subscribe to The Road Map Newsletter and unlock the secrets to achieving a harmonious work-life balance as a leader. https://bit.ly/RoadMapNewsletter

    New Book! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D2C61THR


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  • In the "Schmidt List" podcast, hosts Kurt Schmidt and Lucy Hinton explore the essential role of user experience (UX) and user research in creating successful digital products. Lucy Hinton, a UX consultant at Fathom Consulting, shares her deep experience designing digital and physical products. She highlights the importance of understanding user needs to align product functionalities with user expectations.

    The conversation shifts to how organizations move from top-down design to customer-driven methods. Kurt uses the famous, though misattributed, Henry Ford's "faster horses" quote to underscore the importance of grasping user needs for true innovation. Lucy offers practical advice for those new to user research, emphasizing the need to learn users' broader contexts and environments through prototypes and usability tests.

    They discuss the framework for the jobs, focusing on users' tasks rather than just their interactions with products. Lucy underlines the need to account for varied user environments and tailor designs accordingly. The discussion also covers the importance of competitor analysis without merely copying trends that may not suit the business.

    Lucy discusses the significance of presenting research findings objectively, urging the removal of personal bias and the inclusion of diverse viewpoints. She differentiates general user feedback from usability testing, endorsing the latter to validate hypotheses through real interactions. They also discuss the importance of building rapport with users for genuine feedback and the risks of biased questioning.


    Visit Lucy!

    lucillehinton.com
    linkedin.com/in/lucillehinton
    consultfathom.com




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  • I am thrilled to bring you a new episode of Schmidt List featuring content marketing expert Sarah Panus! 🎧Highlights from the Episode:
    Strategic Social Media: Focus on platforms where you can make the most impact instead of trying to be everywhere. Quality over quantity!Content Patience: Allow your content six months to develop before evaluating its success. Metrics need time.3. Customer Focus: Prioritize your main customer segment, understand their needs, and build your story around solving their problems.4. StoryBrand Framework: Use the seven key questions to clarify your target audience and position your business as their guide.5. Three Pillars: Establish three storytelling pillars that align with your audience's interests, plus a "wild card" to stand out.Extra Resources:

    Connect with Sarah Panus on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahpanus/


    Visit Sarah’s site for more strategies and take the content quiz. www.kindredspeak.com

    QUIZ: Ready to Improve Your Content Strategy? Discover which content makeover will boost your brand's success! Take this 40-second QUIZ to find your "home" makeover show match and get a content makeover plan to help you attract customers & drive better business results.

    https://www.tryinteract.com/share/quiz/65c650923a654f0015bbd704

    Ready to unlock the full potential of your content strategy? Listen to the episode now!

    There is too much Schmidt to List!
    Check out https://www.kurtschmidt.me for more show info.

    Visit Kurt’s coaching site at https://schmidtconsulting.group

    Subscribe to The Road Map Newsletter and unlock the secrets to achieving a harmonious work-life balance as a leader. https://bit.ly/RoadMapNewsletter

    New Book! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D2C61THR

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  • Join us on the Schmidt List Podcast as host Kurt Schmidt sits down with Beth Elliott, the owner of Elberry Transformation Consultants, to dive deep into the world of AI in change management and its impact on organizations. 🎙️🤖

    In this insightful episode, Kurt and Beth explore the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning in the business landscape. They discuss how AI is being leveraged as a solution in change management, the importance of human-centered design in AI implementation, and the pivotal role of team collaboration and customer feedback.

    🌟 **Key Topics Covered in This Episode:** -

    The role of AI and machine learning in change management discussions - The need to consider the impact of AI on people and processes - The challenges of aligning perceptions and values surrounding AI - Using analog methods like online whiteboards for collaboration - The importance of front-end strategy and alignment among leaders - Steps to avoid a decision by committee approach - High-level strategy and iterative concept co-creation in highly regulated environments - The significance of cross-functional collaboration and breaking down silos - The benefits of getting direct customer feedback - Addressing broken systems and processes in digital transformation - The impact of social media on organizational processes and customer experience - The limitations of digital transformation and software adoption challenges - Best practices for effective communication and change management Beth shares her experiences of working with large organizations to foster cross-functional collaboration and identify complex business problems. From improving call times in a health insurance call center to cultivating storytellers within organizations, this episode is packed with practical insights and real-world examples.

    💼 **About Our Guest:** Beth Elliott, owner of Elberry Transformation Consultants, specializes in innovation and transformation consulting. Her expertise lies in human-centered design, enterprise transformation strategy, and breaking down organizational silos to facilitate collaboration.

    🔗 **Connect with Beth Elliott:**
    **Website:** www.ellberry.com **LinkedIn:** https://www.linkedin.com/in/belliott17/

    👂 **Don't Miss Out:**
    If you’re interested in AI, change management, innovation, and transformation within organizations, this episode is a must-listen! Be sure to subscribe to the Schmidt List Podcast for more engaging discussions with industry experts.

    There is too much Schmidt to List!
    Check out https://www.kurtschmidt.me for more show info.

    Visit Kurt’s coaching site at https://schmidtconsulting.group

    Subscribe to The Road Map Newsletter and unlock the secrets to achieving a harmonious work-life balance as a leader. https://bit.ly/RoadMapNewsletter
    New Book! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D2C61THR

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/schmidt-list-inspiring-leaders--2664825/support.

  • We're excited to present the latest episode of Schmidt List featuring the insightful Creg Schumann! This episode is packed with transformative ideas on embracing failure and the power of storytelling, which is crucial for any innovator.

    Key Highlights:

    - Learning from Failure: Creg discusses how accepting failure can drive success and innovation.
    - Effective Storytelling: Discover the impact of making your customers the heroes of your business stories.
    - Strategic Alignment: Learn how to align your strategy with your organization’s identity through empathy.
    - Collaborative Innovation: Explore the benefits of multidisciplinary teams and pilot programs.
    - Analog Approaches: Using simple tools like pen, paper, and whiteboards for effective communication.

    Kurt Schmidt hints at a future book from Creg Schumann and recommends the white paper linked in the episode notes. Be sure to check it out! Connect with Creg on LinkedIn and join him at various meetups. Stay tuned for more thought-provoking episodes!

    There is too much Schmidt to List!
    Check out https://www.kurtschmidt.me for more show info.

    Visit Kurt’s coaching site at https://schmidtconsulting.group

    Subscribe to The Road Map Newsletter and unlock the secrets to achieving a harmonious work-life balance as a leader. https://bit.ly/RoadMapNewsletter

    New Book! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D2C61THR

    Follow us on all the things!
    https://twitter.com/Schmidt_List
    https://www.instagram.com/schmidtlistpodcast/
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    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/schmidt-list-inspiring-leaders--2664825/support.

  • We're back with another exciting episode of the Schmidt List! This week, we had the pleasure of hosting Benji Borner, a dynamic leader in technology and networking. If you're curious about how to build and leverage your network authentically, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

    Episode Highlights:

    🔹 Innovative Practice Development:
    Benji shares his journey of building a new practice that takes a fresh approach to technology leadership, emphasizing interim fractional advisory and solving business problems.

    🔹 Networking Insights:
    Learn about Benji’s transition from an introverted tech leader to a networking maven. He delves into the importance of having a mentor, being curious, and showing up authentically in every conversation.

    🔹 Overcoming Challenges:
    Benji opens up about the hurdles he faced when he transitioned from a CIO role and how he utilized his network to navigate his career path effectively.

    🔹 Practical Tips:
    Discover actionable advice on how to initiate meaningful conversations, the value of curiosity, and even some creative ways Benji prepared for networking meetings (hint: it involves his kids!).

    Memorable Quote:
    “People want to help. They've accepted the meeting. Getting over that mental hurdle is crucial. Show up authentically and stay curious.”

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benji-borner/
    Follow Ascendex Consulting on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ascendexconsulting/
    Ascendex Consulting: https://ascendexconsulting.com


    There is too much Schmidt to List!

    Check out https://www.kurtschmidt.me for more show info.

    Visit Kurt’s coaching site at https://schmidtconsulting.group

    Subscribe to The Road Map Newsletter and unlock the secrets to achieving a harmonious work-life balance as a leader. https://bit.ly/RoadMapNewsletter

    New Book! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D2C61THR



    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/schmidt-list-inspiring-leaders--2664825/support.

  • In our latest Schmidt List episode, we chatted with Gray MacKenzie, co-founder of Zen Pilot. If you’re aiming to elevate your agency’s operations, this is an episode you don’t want to miss! Here are some highlights:


    Top Insights from Gray MacKenzie:

    1. Essential Resources:
    - 🌐 [ZenPilot.com](https://zenpilot.com) for services and consultations.
    - 🔗 [Gray’s LinkedIn](https://linkedin.com/in/graymackenzie) for updates.
    - 📺 [YouTube Channel](https://youtube.com/zenpilot) with 100+ tutorial videos.

    2. Proven Engagement Process:
    Zen Pilot starts with a two-week blueprint process, including a team benchmark survey and a thorough assessment of your project management infrastructure.

    3. Scalable Packages:
    Post-blueprint, they offer scalable engagement packages starting at $4K per month, tailored to maximize your ROI.

    4. Achieving ROI:
    Agencies can see potential profitability improvements of up to half a million dollars in the first year, with 30-40% of this realized within the same period.

    5. Emphasis on Cultural Change:
    Gray underscores the importance of team buy-in and cultural alignment to make new processes stick.

    6. Addressing Operational Challenges:
    From capacity management to forecasting, Zen Pilot provides strategic solutions to common agency hurdles.

    7. Confidence in Pricing:
    Gray offers practical advice on positioning and confidently raising your rates to reflect your expertise.


    🔗 Quick Links:
    There is too much Schmidt to List!
    Check out https://www.kurtschmidt.me for more show info.

    Visit Kurt’s coaching site at https://schmidtconsulting.group

    Subscribe to The Road Map Newsletter and unlock the secrets to achieving a harmonious work-life balance as a leader. https://bit.ly/RoadMapNewsletter

    New Book! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D2C61THR

    Follow us on all the things!
    https://twitter.com/Schmidt_List
    https://www.instagram.com/schmidtlistpodcast/
    https://www.facebook.com/schmidtlist/
    https://www.youtube.com/c/SchmidtList

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/schmidt-list-inspiring-leaders--2664825/support.