Episodes

  • Bradley Hamner - Founder of BlueprintOS

    Bradley Hamner - Founder of BlueprintOS
    Oct 1 2024
    Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America podcast. In this episode, we're joined by Bradley Hamner, a business growth coach, serial entrepreneur, and the Founder of BlueprintOS. Bradley's mission is to help business owners and entrepreneurs transition from being the Rainmaker—where everything depends on them—to becoming the Architect of a business that runs smoothly without their constant involvement. Bradley's journey is both inspiring and relatable. After a stress-related health scare at the age of 34, he realized that his business was running him, not the other way around. This led to the creation of BlueprintOS, a comprehensive system that empowers entrepreneurs to design, build, and implement organizational structures that drive growth, scalability, and freedom. As the host of the Above the Business podcast, Bradley shares strategies every week to help entrepreneurs install the systems and processes needed to create a business that works for them. In today's conversation, we dive into his personal journey, the Rainmaker’s Dilemma, and how BlueprintOS provides a clear roadmap for business owners ready to scale without losing their freedom. We also explore his approach to designing winning playbooks, his advice for entrepreneurs who are stuck working 'in' the business, and much more. Notable Awards and Recognitions • Founder of BlueprintOS • Helps small business owners with $300K to $3M in annual revenue transition from being the Rainmaker, where everything depends on them, to becoming the Architect of a scalable, self-sustaining, and profitable business. • Host of the “Above the Business” Podcast. • Launched multiple successful businesses, helping entrepreneurs scale their operations while reducing dependence on their direct involvement. How to connect with Bradley Hamner •https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradleyhamner/ •https://www.blueprintos.com/#:~:text=BlueprintOS%20is%20how%20you%20get%20there.%20BOOK%20A •https://www.abovethebusiness.co/podcast#:~:text=Above%20The%20Business%20will%20empower%20you%20to%20rise Show Notes [1:25] Brief intro on how Bradley got to where he is today. [3:25] The pivotal moment that made Bradley make a change from the corporate world to entrepreneurship. [10:55] “Rainmaker’s Dilemma” [13:23] S.C.A.L.E. Sustainable Revenue Consistent Profitability and Growth Away: Time Away Leverage with an Executive Assistant Efficient Operations [22:14] How BlueprintOS helps people work “on the business” instead of “in the business.” [24:38] Bradley’s approach to designing systems and processes, and how business owners can build playbooks that streamline operations. [36:21] “Above the Business Podcast” [41:38] How to connect with Bradley, learn more about BlueprintOS as well as his podcast, “Above the Business” [43:30] Advice for entrepreneurs who feel stuck in the Rainmaker role, unable to step back and scale their businesses, while still maintaining the freedom they originally sought as business owners. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    45 mins
  • Dr. Glenn Thomas - Founder and CEO of Heart Work Leadership Group

    Dr. Glenn Thomas - Founder and CEO of Heart Work Leadership Group
    Sep 24 2024
    Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America podcast. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Glenn Thomas, the visionary CEO and Founder of Heart Work Leadership Group. Dr. Glenn shares his transformative journey from retail leadership to becoming a pioneer in heart-centered leadership. We explore the power of leading with love, the profound impact it has on organizational culture, and how embracing empathy can drive both employee well-being and business success. Dr. Glenn dives deep into the origins of the Heart Work Leadership framework, the challenges leaders face in adopting this approach, and the tangible benefits companies can expect when they lead with compassion and authenticity. We also discuss the critical role of research in shaping the future of leadership, particularly as businesses move toward more human-centered workplaces. Join us as we unpack the key lessons from Dr. Glenn’s latest book, Dear HR, I Thought You'd Never Ask…, and learn how you can incorporate heart-centered leadership into your own organization to foster positive change. Notable Awards and Recognitions • CEO and Founder of Heart Work Leadership Group, a transformative executive leadership development organization • Founder of The Center for Heart Work Leadership, a nonprofit research firm dedicated to heart-centered leadership • Author of 6 books, including the most recent, Dear HR, I Thought You'd Never Ask… A Blueprint for Designing Workplaces That Lead With Love. • Creator of the Heart Work Leadership framework, designed to help leaders foster trust, collaboration, and emotional intelligence in the workplace • Inspirational speaker, author, mentor, and advocate for leading with love How to connect with Dr. Glenn Thomas • https://www.linkedin.com/in/glennathomasjr/ • https://online.heartworkleadership.com/ • Amazon.com: Dear HR: A blueprint for designing workplaces that lead with love: 9798884839878: Thomas Jr., Dr Glenn A: Books Show Notes [1:32] Brief intro on how Dr. Glenn Thomas got to where he is today. [2:08] Glenn’s defining moment that leading with love was the key to effective leadership and how it shaped the Heart Work Leadership framework. [3:18] What it means to lead with love. [4:39] Convincing organizations the importance of heart-centered leadership and tangible outcomes businesses can expect when they embrace heart-centered leadership, both in terms of employee well-being and business success. [15:43] The role Glenn sees research playing in the future of leadership development. [23:17] Glenn’s latest book, “Dear HR, I Thought You’d Never Ask…” [30:27] How to connect with Glenn, learn more about Heart Work Leadership, as well as pick up his latest book. [31:12] Advice for leaders and entrepreneurs how to incorporate heart-centered leadership into their own businesses. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    33 mins
  • Darlynn Linton, Author of the Children's Book "I Sing!"

    Darlynn Linton, Author of the Children's Book "I Sing!"
    Sep 17 2024
    Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America podcast. In this episode, we are thrilled to welcome Darlynn Linton, a multifaceted creative spirit whose life journey has been a blend of music, storytelling, and family. Growing up in Cleveland, Ohio, Darlynn’s artistic path began in the church choir, where her love for soulful tunes first took root. From performing at festivals in her youth to honing her craft throughout college, Darlynn has always been driven by creativity, even while pursuing a degree in finance from Ohio University. For many years, Darlynn balanced the world of music as a singer/songwriter for 4J Entertainment, while also managing a successful career in residential property management. Alongside these achievements, Darlynn proudly raised four daughters with her husband of 33 years, Thomas. Today, Darlynn is embarking on a new chapter as a children’s book author. Her debut book, I Sing!, is a delightful blend of wisdom and whimsy, designed to captivate young minds and instill confidence in children. Through her storytelling, she aims to unlock the potential in young readers, helping them embrace the joy of being true to themselves. In our conversation, we dive deep into Darlynn’s inspiring transition from music to writing, how her experience as a mother influences her creative work, and the powerful message she hopes children will take away from her stories. We also explore how Darlynn balances her creative passions with her professional life and what exciting goals she has for the future as she continues her journey as an author. If you’re a creative, parent, or aspiring author, this episode is packed with insights on pursuing multiple passions, balancing life’s responsibilities, and embracing the beauty of storytelling. Stay tuned as Darlynn shares her wisdom, experiences, and advice for those looking to explore new creative avenues. Notable Awards and Recognitions • Authored the children’s book I Sing! • Worked as a residential property manager for 27 years. • Earned a degree in finance from Ohio University. How to connect with Darlynn Linton • https://www.darlynnlinton.com/about • https://www.facebook.com/pagesbydarlynn • https://www.instagram.com/pagesbydarlynn/ • https://www.amazon.ca/I-Sing-Darlynn-Linton/dp/B0CRYF8VZ1 • https://www.linkedin.com/in/darlynnlinton/ Show Notes [1:39] Brief intro on how Darlynn got to where she is today. [3:12] How early experiences singing in the choir helped shape Darlynn’s passion for music and storytelling. [5:19] The pivotal moment that inspired Darlynn to transition to becoming a children’s book author. [7:09] How the experience raising four daughters influenced Darlynn’s writing and creative work. [8:34] Darlynn’s book “I Sing!” and the message she hopes children receive when they read it. [12:53] Balancing creative passions with professional responsibilities. [17:04] How to connect with Darlynn and pick up her book “I Sing!” [17:52] Advice for creatives who are looking to explore new avenues. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    20 mins
  • Ella Parlor, Founder and CEO of EP Consulting

    Ella Parlor, Founder and CEO of EP Consulting
    Sep 10 2024
    Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America podcast. In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Ella Parlor, a seasoned beverage industry executive with over 15 years of experience. Ella has driven over $1 billion in revenue for top brands like Diageo, Red Bull, Pernod Ricard, and Anheuser-Busch, as well as for emerging startups. She is the founder and CEO of EP Consulting, where she leverages her deep expertise in commercial strategy, data analytics, and leadership development to help businesses achieve transformative growth. During our conversation, Ella shared insights into the strategies behind her impressive achievements, including managing multi-million-dollar advertising budgets and orchestrating large-scale campaigns, such as a highly successful NBA campaign. We also discussed her best-selling book, High Tolerance, which offers a compelling look at her personal and professional journey, and how she has navigated the challenges of the beverage industry. Ella's passion for brand building, data-driven marketing, and empowering people shines through in everything she does. This episode is packed with valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and executives alike. Notable Awards and Recognitions • Founder and CEO of EP Consulting • Generated over $1 billion in revenue for businesses through strategic planning and execution. • Over 15 years of experience driving growth for top brands at Fortune 500 companies like Diageo, Red Bull, Pernod Ricard, and Anheuser-Busch • #1 best-selling author of the book “High Tolerance” • Orchestrated an NBA campaign with 6.24M impressions and $125K+ in earned media • Managed $60M+ in advertising budgets for Fortune 500 brands • Launched a vodka seltzer brand, driving $400K in first-quarter revenue • Featured in Buzzfeed, SevenFifty Daily, Tribune, CanvasRebel, DallasVoyage, and Authority Magazine • Created partnerships with iconic venues, celebrities, and major sports teams across various channels • Host of the podcast Eavesdrop with Ella How to connect with Ella Parlor • https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellaparlor/ • https://website.beacons.ai/ellaparlor • https://www.instagram.com/ellayourbella • https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsRUGtoFy_-irazxK3XilvA?sub_confirmation=1 Show Notes [1:17] Brief intro on how Ella got to where she is today. [3:32] Key factors in identifying high-potential investments and executing successful go-to-market strategies. [6:08] Transitioning from a career with Red-Bull to working with other businesses and starting her own consulting business, EP Consulting [14:50] Significant challenges Ella faced while working with Fortune 500 companies and how she overcame them [22:30] Importance of storytelling in marketing. [28:05] Effective strategies in maximizing ROI. [31:36] Ella’s book “High Tolerance” and the motivation behind why she wrote it. [40:00] Ella’s podcast “Eavesdrop with Ella” [42:59] How to connect with Ella and learn more about her business, podcast, and pick up her book. [44:18] Advice for aspireing entrepreneurs and executives looking to make a significant impact in their industries. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    46 mins
  • Jeff Roberts, Founder and CEO of Innovation Vista

    Jeff Roberts, Founder and CEO of Innovation Vista
    Sep 3 2024
    Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America podcast. In this episode, we sit down with Jeff Roberts, the visionary founder of Innovation Vista, an IT consulting firm that specializes in providing C-level IT leadership and strategic guidance tailored to the unique needs of midsize organizations. With over 25 years of experience in IT leadership, Jeff has established himself as a transformative force in the industry. He’s a 5-time CIO, a former finalist for Enterprise CIO of the Year, and since founding Innovation Vista in 2019, he has led the firm to remarkable success, driving over $2.4 billion in new client revenue and IT-driven efficiencies. Jeff's career is marked by his ability to turn around struggling IT departments, transform them into profit centers, and lead successful digital transformations across various industries. His leadership has not only propelled businesses forward but also nurtured the careers of his team, with 19 of his former subordinates advancing to C-level positions. In our conversation, we explore Jeff’s unique approach to IT consulting, his insights on innovating beyond efficiency, and his thoughts on the emerging technology trends that are set to shape the future of the industry. Join us as we delve into Jeff’s journey, his strategies for driving business results through IT, and the valuable lessons he’s learned along the way. Notable Awards and Recognitions • Founder and CEO of Innovation Vista • 5-time CIO with over 25 years of IT leadership experience • Innovation Vista has generated $1.3 billion in new client revenue from IT & Analytics and $1.1 billion in IT-driven efficiencies and cost savings. • Innovation Vista’s consulting team has advised over 650 C-suites and Boards globally • Interviewed on television, podcasts, and in magazine articles on innovation, AI, IT leadership, tech consulting, and digital transformation • 19 former subordinates advanced to C-level positions How to connect with Jeff Roberts • https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertsjeff/ • https://innovationvista.com/ Show Notes [1:32] Brief intro on how Jeff got to where she is today. [3:25] How Innovation Vista differs from traditional consulting models and the advantages they offer to midsize organizations. [6:14] Selecting the right consultant for clients. [13:54] “Innovating Beyond Efficiency” [21:56] AI shaping the future of IT Consulting [31:32] How to connect with Jeff Roberts and learn more about Innovation Vista. [32:23] Advice for anyone looking to start their own consulting business. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    36 mins
  • Blima Ehrentreu, Founder and CEO of The Designers Group

    Blima Ehrentreu, Founder and CEO of The Designers Group
    Aug 27 2024
    Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America podcast. In this episode, we sit down with Blima Ehrentreu, the visionary Founder and CEO of The Designers Group. Blima has made a profound impact on the design industry by combining her creativity, passion for empowering women, and dedication to philanthropy. Under her leadership, The Designers Group has grown into a multinational enterprise, recognized for its innovative and purpose-driven approach to design across residential, commercial, and healthcare sectors. Blima shares her journey of expanding The Designers Group from Canada into the U.S., the early stages of the company, and how it has become a leader in creating high-end interior spaces. We explore how TDG leverages AI in the design process, fosters a culture that embraces change and encourages fresh ideas, and how Blima's travels inspire her innovative designs. We also discuss her commitment to empowering women in the design and construction industries and her advice for entrepreneurs looking to start their own design firms. Join us as we delve into Blima's remarkable journey, her approach to design, and the transformative power of purpose-driven work in shaping a better world. Notable Awards and Recognitions • Founder and CEO of The Designers Group • The Designers Group ranked No. 15 among the top fastest-growing private companies in the New York Metro Area by Inc. Magazine in 2021. • Recognized as one of Globest’s Women of Influence in 2020 & 2022. • Recognized as a sought-after speaker, frequently featured at leading industry panels and expos. How to connect with Blima Ehrentreu · https://www.linkedin.com/in/blimaehrentreu/ · https://www.thedesignersgroup.com/ · https://www.instagram.com/thedesignersgroup/ · https://www.facebook.com/thedesignersgroup Show Notes [1:31] Brief intro on how Blima got to where she is today. [3:15] Expanding The Designers Group into the US from Canada. [4:55] Early stages of The Designers Group [6:49] How TDG approaches designs for vastly different sectors. [9:50] Utilization of AI in the design process. [13:45] How TDG fosters a culture that encourages fresh ideas and embraces change. [17:24] How traveling influences Blima’s ideas on new designs. [20:04] Empowering women in the design and construction industries. [24:45] How to connect with Blima and learn more about TDG. [25:57] Advice for entrepreneurs looking to start their own design firm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    30 mins
  • Garrett Delph, Founder and CEO of Clarity Ops

    Garrett Delph, Founder and CEO of Clarity Ops
    Aug 20 2024
    Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America podcast. In this episode, we sit down with Garrett Delph, a seasoned entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience in building and scaling businesses on a global scale. Garrett is the Founder and CEO of Clarity Ops, where he specializes in solving complex operational challenges that plague many organizations, from broken processes and bloated expenses to chaotic supply chains and culture debt. He is also the Founder and CEO of ShootDotEdit, a leading photo editing service designed specifically for professional wedding photographers, delivering personalized and fast-turnaround edits that match each photographer’s unique style. Garrett shares his insights on how he empowers management leaders to drive business growth while maintaining a strong, positive company culture. We delve into the unique operational frameworks he has developed, which consistently decrease costs, boost efficiency, and create happier, more productive teams. We also explore the value ShootDotEdit provides to its clients and how it stays ahead of industry trends. Garrett offers practical advice on streamlining operations, scaling businesses, and ensuring long-term growth, making this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to elevate their business to the next level. Notable Awards and Recognitions • Founder and CEO of Clarity Ops LLC. • Founder and CEO of ShootDotEdit. • Founded three successful businesses generating over $40 million in revenue. • Over 25 years of experience in building multiple worldwide scalable businesses and has guided leadership teams of over 500 employees. • Known for empowering leaders, rapid scaling, culture protection, and operational simplification. How to connect with Garrett Delph · https://www.linkedin.com/in/garrettdelph/ · https://clarityops.co/ · https://shootdotedit.com/ Show Notes [1:45] Brief intro on how Garrett got to where he is today. [3:07] How Clarity Ops helps high impact organizations reach their goals. [12:37] Empowering management leaders to drive business growth at scale while maintaining a people first-environment. [27:05] Practical steps for streamlining processes. [38:50] ShootDotEdit [41:20] How ShootDotEdit stays ahead of trends. [47:03] How to connect with Garret and learn more about Clarity Ops and ShootDotEdit [47:50] Key strategies for starting a business and ensuring sustained growth over time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    51 mins
  • Theresa Rose, Brand and Business Crystalizer

    Theresa Rose, Brand and Business Crystalizer
    Aug 6 2024
    Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America podcast. In this episode we spoke with Theresa Rose, a true powerhouse in the world of thought leadership. Theresa is a Certified Speaking Professional known for her engaging, humorous, and insightful programs on "Cocktail Napkin Clarity." Her mission as a Strategic Co-Creator is to crystallize the brilliance of amazing souls who strive to make the world a better place. Through her Crystallization Process, she helps clients clarify, amplify, and monetize their brilliance, making a significant impact on stages, pages, and screens. Theresa is the author of five books, including the acclaimed "Mindful Performance: How to Powerfully Impact Profitability, Productivity, and Purpose." As a lifelong wordnerd with a passion for performance, persuasion, and productivity, she serves as a trusted "Claripist" for value-driven brands and businesses. With 16 years of experience in thought leadership, two TEDx Talks, five books, and over 500 presentations delivered, Theresa's work is guided by the values of Co-Creation, Distinction, and Activation. In our conversation, we discussed her approach to helping brands and businesses. We explored the key elements that make a presentation truly engaging and memorable, and the benefits of her Momentum Coaching approach. Additionally, Theresa talked about her core values of Co-Creation, Distinction, and Activation, sharing a story that illustrates these values in action. Notable Awards and Recognitions • Strategic Co-Creator with a mission to crystallize the brilliance of value-driven brands and businesses • Author of 5 books, including "Mindful Performance: How to Powerfully Impact Profitability, Productivity, and Purpose" • 2 TEDx Talks and literary awards • 16 years in thought leadership and 500+ presentations delivered • Delivers engaging, humorous, insightful programs on "Cocktail Napkin Clarity" • 16 years in thought leadership How to connect with · https://www.linkedin.com/in/theresarosepresents/ · https://www.theresarose.com/ · https://www.instagram.com/theresarosepresents/ · https://www.facebook.com/TheresaRosePresents/ Show Notes [1:36] Brief intro on Theresa and how she got to where she is today. [4:07] “Claripist” and “Cocktail Napkin Clarity” [9:37] Common reasons why people fail to see what makes them distinctive and why they struggle to communicate their unique values. [13:58] Key elements that make a presentation truly engaging and memorable. [19:25] How Theresa’s coaching approach differs from traditional coaching methods. [28:00] Co-Creation, Distinction, and Activation [35:30] Theresa’s DIY Mini-Course [36:48] How to engage with Theresa and learn more about what her business offers. [37:45] Advice for aspiring speakers and writers looking to make a significant impact with their words and ideas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    39 mins