Get Business Smart with Tony Bradshaw

Tony Bradshaw

Get Business Smart with Tony Bradshaw is a podcast for business owners, leaders, and entrepreneurs who want to grow their business and build a meaningful, purpose-driven life. I’m Tony—CEO, author, husband of 27 years, dad of six, and a guy who’s spent more than 25 years helping companies grow, scale, and build strong teams and strong revenue. I’ve lived the highs, the lows, the stress, the pivots, and the breakthroughs—and I know one thing for sure: business success means nothing if you lose your family, your faith, or your purpose along the way. Every week, I sit down with real business owners, marketers, coaches, executives, and leaders who’ve been in the trenches. We talk about what actually works: Growing revenue and building systemsLeading and developing your team for real impactBalancing life, family, and businessWhat to do with all that money you're making to create generational wealthKeeping God at the center of it alland how to give your life, money, and business a mission and purpose This isn’t hype. It’s not theory. It’s real-life business wisdom for people who want to win at business and win at life. If you’re ready to grow your business, strengthen your leadership, build wealth with purpose, and live out the calling God’s put on your life…you’re in the right place. Hit play and let’s get business smart—together.

  1. 3h ago

    EP24: Wealth in Real Estate and Purpose in 4,000 Acre Animal Rescue Farm | Melanie Cox | CEO of EMC Property

    On this episode of Get Business Smart, Tony Bradshaw talks with Melanie Cox, author of You Have to Know and CEO of EMC Property, about the power of words, building wealth through real estate, and the purpose behind her 4,000 acre animal rescue.  Melanie shares how a health crisis pushed her to write her book, how she approaches multifamily investing, and why she believes business, faith, and stewardship all belong together.We discuss Melanie’s background, her investing frameworks, and the stories behind Blue Oak Rescue, including Bear, the wolf dog who became a ranch guardian. Tony also shares his own lessons on debt, diversification, and raising a large family. Key topics In this episode, Melanie explains how You Have to Know began as a letter to her children during a season of thyroid cancer, exhaustion, and reflection on what her kids needed to survive and thrive in life.She describes the book as a practical, faith-based guide built around mindset, truth, and the words people speak over themselves, combining personal stories, Bible references, and supporting studies.Tony and Melanie discuss manifestation, but frame it through faith and spiritual alignment rather than a generic self-help formula.Melanie shares her belief that words have real power, citing the Bible’s emphasis on speech and the idea that aligning your words with God’s will matters in daily life, business, and purpose.Tony reflects on his own experience giving time instead of money during lean years, including free work and his service on the Tennessee Christian Chamber of Commerce board.Melanie outlines EMC Property’s focus on larger projects, especially multifamily, commercial, and select single-family opportunities, with most projects sold to investors rather than held as rentals.She explains that she occasionally keeps properties when they connect to a deeper purpose, including a 45-unit building in Palm Desert that was repurposed to serve veterans needing alcohol and mental health support.Melanie breaks down her broader investment approach, including stock income, triple net leases, tax-advantaged purchases like car washes, singleCONNECT WITH MELANIE COX at https://melaniecox.org/ HIGHER PEAK BUSINESS COACHING Feeling lost, stuck, or confused in your business? Wearing too many hats? Stretched too thin? Not sure if you've got the right people in the right seats? Sound familiar? Through Higher Peak Business Coaching, Tony works with business owners doing one million to fifty million in revenue — helping them turn chaos into clarity, and clarity into growth. Ready to unlock your full potential? Book a call today at tonybradshaw.com.

  2. Aug 4

    EP23: From Jackson Hewitt to Liberty Tax: Lessons in Business Success | John Hewitt | Liberty Tax

    In this episode of the Get Business Smart Podcast, Tony talks with John Hewitt about his entrepreneurial journey from founding Jackson Hewitt to Liberty Tax and the leadership, purpose, and systems that helped him build scalable, long-term business success.Discover how John built billion-dollar franchise brands by focusing on mission, values, and execution. He shares practical lessons on perseverance, building strong teams, creating systems that scale, and using franchising as a path to sustainable growth.In this episode, you’ll learn:  TAKEAWAYS Build around a clear purpose and let it guide your decisionsCreate systems that make growth repeatableHire for complementary strengths, not just similarityEncourage honest communication so problems surface earlyFocus on long-term value, not just short-term winsTIMESTAMPS 00:00 Finding Purpose Beyond Business 05:59 Education and Entrepreneurship 11:30 Leadership Lessons from Experience 17:32 Hiring for Success 23:24 Franchising vs. Small Business CONNECT WITH JOHN HEWITT AT john@loyaltybrands.com or loyaltybrands.com.   HIGHER PEAK BUSINESS COACHING Feeling lost, stuck, or confused in your business? Wearing too many hats? Stretched too thin? Not sure if you've got the right people in the right seats? Sound familiar? Through Higher Peak Business Coaching, Tony works with business owners doing one million to fifty million in revenue — helping them turn chaos into clarity, and clarity into growth. Ready to unlock your full potential? Book a call today at tonybradshaw.com.

  3. Jul 21

    EP22: Building a God Focused Business | Kraig | Ignite Kingdom Business

    On this episode of Get Business Smart, Tony talks with Kraig and Desiree Bougher about building a kingdom based business. Embracing Faith and Recognition in Christian Business Leadership: Insights from Kraig and Desiree Bougher Learn how faith, recognition, and strategic business practices intertwine in this inspiring conversation with Kraig and Desiree Bougher. Discover how applying biblical principles can transform your approach to leadership, recognition, and marketplace influence. TAKEAWAYS The importance of recognition and appreciation in building culture and relationshipsIntegrating faith into everyday business practices without being pushyThe power of prayer and boldness in workplace settingsStrategies for promoting Christian conferences and fostering marketplace presenceThe significance of unity among Christian business leaders and churchesThe story of Joseph as a model for connecting people with solutions, regardless of backgroundPractical ways to incorporate biblical concepts into business operationsThe upcoming Ignite Kingdom Conference in Nashville and its lineupThe rising trend of Christian organizations unapologetically engaging in marketplace influenceTIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Introduction to Craig and Desiree Buyer & their business journey  02:38 - How recognition strengthens client relationships and company culture  04:15 - Incorporating faith and prayer into business interactions  05:53 - Managing recognition and praise to retain employee engagement  10:20 - Range of promotional products and their strategic purpose  12:50 - Creative recognition examples impacting team morale  14:15 - The significance of recognizing employees' unique contributions  15:40 - Details on the Ignite Kingdom Conference in Nashville  16:39 - The importance of marketplace influence for Christian leaders  18:12 - Addressing church division and opportunities for citywide transformation  20:48 - The Joseph story as a blueprint for divine connections  22:47 - Tapping into the power of networked influence and unity  25:05 - Key speakers and program highlights of the upcoming conference  27:10 - How Christian entrepreneurs are boldly displaying their faith in business  30:37 - The necessity of unity among churches to transform cities  36:44 - Practical steps for stewardship and wealth-building aligned with biblical principles  37:19 - How to connect with Craig and get involved in the Ignite Kingdom Conference Connect with Craig and Desiree Bougher at Ignite Kingdom Group or xtremerecognitionshop.com HIGHER PEAK BUSINESS COACHING Feeling lost, stuck, or confused in your business? Wearing too many hats? Stretched too thin? Not sure if you've got the right people in the right seats? Sound familiar? Through Higher Peak Business Coaching, Tony works with business owners doing one million to fifty million in revenue — helping them turn chaos into clarity, and clarity into growth. Ready to unlock your full potential? Book a call today at tonybradshaw.com.

  4. Jul 8

    EP21: MASTERING PR: How to Use Media to Grow Your Brand | Jill Lublin | Jill Lublin Publicity

    In this episode of Get Business Smart, Tony talks with Jill Lublin about building your brand through PR.  Unlock actionable PR strategies from Jill Lublin, a renowned PR expert and author, as she shares insights on building brand awareness, leveraging media, and creating impactful messages that stick. Perfect for authors, entrepreneurs, and business owners looking to elevate their visibility. Jill breaks down public relations into a practical, repeatable system that any creator or business owner can use to get noticed without needing a huge budget. From the “gorilla publicity” mindset to crafting a message that clearly serves the audience, she explains how strong PR starts with relevance, clarity, and consistency.  Listeners will learn how to use stories, current events, holidays, and media opportunities to make their pitch more timely and compelling. The conversation also explores how different channels — including print, radio, TV, podcasts, blogs, and online media — can work together to build authority and trust. Jill shares why saying yes to media opportunities matters, how logos from reputable outlets can boost credibility, and how confidence helps overcome imposter syndrome when presenting yourself to the world. She also offers practical advice for starting with local media, integrating PR with special dates, and turning visibility into long-term brand growth.  In this episode:  The importance of a clear, focused message tailored to your audienceDifferent media channels for effective PR, from traditional to digitalHow to identify current events and holidays for timely media pitchesThe power of stories and application in media outreachStrategies for local versus national media placementsHow to leverage logos and media logos for credibility and social proofThe impact of multi-channel marketing and content formatsTips for overcoming imposter syndrome and boosting confidenceThe value of saying "yes" to every media opportunityPractical steps to start your PR journey, including tools and programs Timestamps: (00:00) - Intro to Jill Lublin and her PR expertise(02:16) - The gorilla publicity approach: resourcefulness without heavy spending(04:55) - The significance of a strong core message focused on your audience's needs(08:21) - Differentiating social media from traditional PR(09:57) - The channels of PR: print, radio, TV, podcasts, blogs, and online media(11:20) - The concept of PR as magnetizing, monetizing, and multiplying your message(13:02) - The importance of video content in personal branding(15:23) - Using logos and media credibility to build authority(16:50) - The success of Chicken Soup for the Soul via consistent PR(17:48) - The importance of saying "yes" to media opportunities for brand awareness(19:33) - Overcoming imposter syndrome through confident messaging(22:22) - The difference between paid and free media; the dynamics of pay-to-play(25:48) - How relevance and current events can be used in media pitches(28:54) - Practical tips for integrating PR with holidays and special dates(29:01) - Invitation to Jill’s publicity challenge at jollublin.com/start Resources & Links: Jill Lublin's Website / Publicity ChallengeBook: Get Noticed, Get ReferralsInterview Valet - Podcast Booking ServiceThe Prophet of KindnessPublic Relations Mastermind (event/offer) Additional tips: Start with local media appearances to build credibilityLook for timely opportunities based on current events or holidaysDevelop a simple, compelling pitch tailored to your media targetUse logos from reputable media outlets to increase trustworthinessEmbrace every media opportunity to expand your reachCONNECT WITH JILL LUBLIN at jilllublin.com HIGHER PEAK BUSINESS COACHING Feeling lost, stuck, or confused in your business? Wearing too many hats? Stretched too thin? Not sure if you've got the right people in the right seats? Sound familiar? Through Higher Peak Business Coaching, Tony works with business owners doing one million to fifty million in revenue — helping them turn chaos into clarity, and clarity into growth. Ready to unlock your full potential? Book a call today at tonybradshaw.com.

  5. Jun 29

    EP20: Unlocking the Secrets of Self-Publishing Your Own Book | Michele DeFilippo | 1106 Design

    In this episode of the GET BUSINESS SMART Podcast, Tony talks with Michele DeFilippo of 1106 Design about the world of publishing. Dive into the world of book publishing with Michelle DeFilippo, owner of 1106 Design, as she shares her insights from helping over 4,000 authors bring their books to life. Whether you're an aspiring author or an experienced writer, learn practical tips on publishing, marketing, and maximizing your book’s impact.  TAKEAWAYS Michele's journey helping authors publish and the importance of choosing the right publishing pathThe financial realities of traditional publishing versus self-publishing on AmazonHow authors can avoid common pitfalls and red flags in the publishing industryThe process of producing different formats: print, ebook, audiobookEffective marketing strategies and realistic expectations for new book releasesThe role of hybrid publishers and how to assess their valueThe impact of AI tools like ChatGPT and AI-generated audiobooks in modern publishingWhat to look for in a trusted author services companyHow to distribute your book widely using platforms like KDP and IngramSparkTips for building an author career with consistent book releasesTIMESTAMPS  00:00 - Welcome and introduction to Michele DeFilippo  02:10 - Michelle's long-standing experience in publishing since the 1970s  04:20 - The realities of book sales and author expectations  05:45 - Impact of publishing choices on earnings  09:12 - Understanding traditional vs. self-publishing models  12:52 - Effective marketing budgets and strategies for new books  14:01 - The comprehensive publishing services offered by Eleven Six Design  16:42 - The role of editing and managing the publishing process  18:31 - Insights into ghostwriting and AI-assisted writing  21:38 - Producing and licensing audiobooks  22:49 - Best practices for audio narration and production  25:02 - Common industry red flags and scams authors should watch for  28:24 - Distributions platforms to maximize reach  29:15 - The future of bookstores and online vs. in-store buying  30:39 - How to connect with Michele and access free resources Resources & Links: Publish Like the Pros - Free Guide CONNECT WITH MICHELE DEFILIPPO at 1106 Design | 1106Design.com HIGHER PEAK BUSINESS COACHING Feeling lost, stuck, or confused in your business? Wearing too many hats? Stretched too thin? Not sure if you've got the right people in the right seats? Sound familiar? Through Higher Peak Business Coaching, Tony works with business owners doing one million to fifty million in revenue — helping them turn chaos into clarity, and clarity into growth. Ready to unlock your full potential? Book a call today at tonybradshaw.com.

  6. Jun 19

    EP19:Franchising Success: Unlocking Opportunities in Business Ownership |CHRIS HILGERS|PEAK FRANCHISING

    Discover the ins and outs of franchising with Chris Hilgers, a 15-year industry veteran, as he shares insights on why franchises offer a higher success rate compared to startups. Learn about the process of choosing the right franchise, understanding investments, and the support structures that help franchise owners thrive. TAKEAWAYS The success disparity between franchise owners (80%) and startups (90% failure over 10 years)Why starting in the second base (franchise) is smarter than starting from scratchThe importance of validation and talking to existing franchise ownersThe comprehensive process of screening, discovery, and measuring fit before investingHow to evaluate franchise investment costs: from service businesses to brick-and-mortar optionsThe role of support structures, including training, marketing, and real estate guidance, in franchise successTips on assessing a franchise’s differentiation in the marketplaceThe significance of choosing a business aligned with personal interests and lifestyle goalsResources for continuous growth and learning, including Tony Robbins and Darren HardyTIMESTAMPS  00:00 - Introduction to franchise success rates and why they matter  00:40 - Comparing startups versus franchise success and starting at second base  01:17 - The value of validation and talking to current franchise owners  03:02 - The franchise selection process: screening and personal modeling  04:48 - How to determine the right type of franchise for your skills and lifestyle  06:12 - The importance of focusing and filtering options, not shotgun approaches  07:10 - The FTC regulations and the disclosure process for franchisees  08:33 - Benchmarking and evaluating franchise performance metrics  09:02 - Scalability and long-term sustainability of franchise businesses  09:28 - Validating franchise success and challenges with existing owners  10:25 - The significance of visiting headquarters and discovery days  11:28 - Franchise options: the variety of companies and opportunities available  12:44 - Investment ranges in franchises: low vs. high cost options  13:45 - Types of service and brick-and-mortar franchises, with examples  15:08 - Support structures: training, marketing, real estate, and peer networks  16:23 - The value of choosing franchises with well-developed support programs  17:16 - The importance of business differentiation in competitive markets  18:13 - Aligning franchise choices with personal fulfillment and interests  21:13 - Support systems for franchise owners: ongoing training and infrastructure  27:35 - Recommended resources for ongoing personal and business growth  29:08 - How to connect with Chris and explore franchise opportunitiesResources & Links: CONNECT WITH CHRIS HILGERS AT peakfranchising.com and podcast.peakfranchising.com HIGHER PEAK BUSINESS COACHING Feeling lost, stuck, or confused in your business? Wearing too many hats? Stretched too thin? Not sure if you've got the right people in the right seats? Sound familiar? Through Higher Peak Business Coaching, Tony works with business owners doing one million to fifty million in revenue — helping them turn chaos into clarity, and clarity into growth. Ready to unlock your full potential? Book a call today at tonybradshaw.com.

  7. Jun 8

    EP18: GETTING TO THE NEXT LEVEL IN YOUR LIFE | ALAN LAZAROS | NEXT LEVEL UNIVERSITY

    Alan Lazaros, co-founder of Next Level University, joins Tony Bradshaw for a candid conversation on what it really takes to build a thriving business and podcast from the ground up. From leading by example to tracking the right metrics, Alan shares the systems and mindsets that have helped him grow an engaged online community — and how you can apply the same principles to your own journey. TAKEAWAYS Consistency is key — keep evolving and never stop showing up. Lead by example. Be willing to do what you ask of your team. Track your metrics daily to stay aligned and avoid operational chaos. Focus on high-value activities and let technology do the heavy lifting. Build a community that values genuine human connection over automation. TIMESTAMP 00:00 Introduction to Alan Lazaros and Next Level University 02:52 The challenges of starting a business 05:39 Leading by example in business 08:24 Managing a virtual team effectively 11:21 Tracking metrics for success 14:03 Building a cohesive business model 17:10 The value of community in podcasting 19:04 Starting your podcast journey 22:25 Building a personal brand through podcasting 25:06 Framework for success: goals and metrics 28:25 Embracing hard work and discipline 32:00 Recommended resources for growth CONNECT WITH ALAN LAZAROS AT nextleveluniverse.com HIGHER PEAK BUSINESS COACHING Feeling lost, stuck, or confused in your business? Wearing too many hats? Stretched too thin? Not sure if you've got the right people in the right seats? Sound familiar? Through Higher Peak Business Coaching, Tony works with business owners doing one million to fifty million in revenue — helping them turn chaos into clarity, and clarity into growth. Ready to unlock your full potential? Book a call today at tonybradshaw.com.

  8. May 30

    EP17: Unlocking the Secrets to Business Success | Matt Uhler | Amped Success

    Discover the secrets to buying, selling, and growing successful businesses with veteran broker Matt Uhler. Learn how to evaluate business value, structure deals, and diversify income streams for long-term financial resilience. KEY TAKEAWAYS The importance of exit strategies for small business ownersHow business valuation works, including key metrics like EBITDA and seller's discretionary earningsSteps to prepare a business for sale to maximize its market valueThe role of multiples in business valuation and typical rangesFunding options for acquiring a business, emphasizing SBA loansStrategies for diversifying income through business ownershipThe impact of market disruptions, such as COVID-19, on business operationsBuilding a portfolio of multiple businesses for risk mitigation and income stabilityThe psychology of wealth and the significance of mindset in financial successBook recommendations: Think and Grow Rich and Rich Dad Poor DadTIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Welcome and introduction to Matt Euler, business broker with 28 years of experience  02:30 - What happens to businesses that don't transition to the next owner  05:00 - Why business owners often leave their businesses to die or close  08:20 - How to prepare a business for sale for better valuation  10:45 - Understanding business valuation: EBITDA and seller's discretionary earnings  14:00 - The importance of asset condition and risk factors in valuation  16:30 - Funding sources: SBA loans and typical down payments  21:00 - Business multiples: typical ranges and how they’re calculated  24:00 - Managing a portfolio of multiple businesses for diversification  28:00 - Monthly oversight: analyzing financials and operational health  32:00 - The significance of income streams for financial security  36:00 - Risks in business ownership and lessons from market disruptions  39:00 - The psychology behind wealth building and mindset shifts  41:00 - Recommended books for developing wealth mindset Resources & Links: Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon HillRich Dad Poor Dad by Robert KiyosakiCONNECT WITH MATT UHLER AT ampedsuccess.com HIGHER PEAK BUSINESS COACHING Feeling lost, stuck, or confused in your business? Wearing too many hats? Stretched too thin? Not sure if you've got the right people in the right seats? Sound familiar? Through Higher Peak Business Coaching, Tony works with business owners doing one million to fifty million in revenue — helping them turn chaos into clarity, and clarity into growth. Ready to unlock your full potential? Book a call today at tonybradshaw.com.

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About

Get Business Smart with Tony Bradshaw is a podcast for business owners, leaders, and entrepreneurs who want to grow their business and build a meaningful, purpose-driven life. I’m Tony—CEO, author, husband of 27 years, dad of six, and a guy who’s spent more than 25 years helping companies grow, scale, and build strong teams and strong revenue. I’ve lived the highs, the lows, the stress, the pivots, and the breakthroughs—and I know one thing for sure: business success means nothing if you lose your family, your faith, or your purpose along the way. Every week, I sit down with real business owners, marketers, coaches, executives, and leaders who’ve been in the trenches. We talk about what actually works: Growing revenue and building systemsLeading and developing your team for real impactBalancing life, family, and businessWhat to do with all that money you're making to create generational wealthKeeping God at the center of it alland how to give your life, money, and business a mission and purpose This isn’t hype. It’s not theory. It’s real-life business wisdom for people who want to win at business and win at life. If you’re ready to grow your business, strengthen your leadership, build wealth with purpose, and live out the calling God’s put on your life…you’re in the right place. Hit play and let’s get business smart—together.