Unpolished MBA Unpolished MBA

Episode Highlights
In this episode Monique speaks on the topic of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its growing significance in various business sectors, particularly in tech.
With AI becoming a mainstream tool, she discusses the multitude of applications of AI in businesses and how it leverages data for efficiency, innovation, and sustainability.
Guest, Dr. K, a data-driven growth consultant and business coach, shares her insights on leveraging data and AI transformation for businesses.
Dr. K highlights the importance of understanding and preparing businesses for AI's future impact, advising on data management and the vital role of AI in decision-making processes. The conversation also explores Dr. K’s journey from academia to entrepreneurship, emphasizing her passion for teaching and helping businesses harness the power of their data through workshops and consulting.
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Follow Dr. Kruti LedenbauerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kruti-lehenbauer/
Her Company is Analytics TX: https://analyticstx.com/
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/

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In this episode the discussion centers on the changing dynamics in the world of business, especially focusing on how services that were previously offered for free are now transitioning to paid models. It highlights how unexpected charges for services that were once free can alienate users and customers. Monique talks about the importance of distinguishing between users and customers, the impact of shifting business models on customer loyalty, and offers advice to businesses considering moving from a freemium to a paid model. The episode stresses the need for transparency, reasonable pricing, and ensuring added value when introducing paid features to previously free services.
01:11 Understanding Users vs. Customers
03:28 The Evite Experience: A Case Study
08:45 The Impact of Changing Business Models
13:55 Advice for Entrepreneurs on Freemium to Paid Transitions
20:22 Closing Thoughts and Words of Wisdom
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Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/

In this episode, Mark Bayer of Bayer Strategic Consulting, who specializes in teaching scientists and engineers effective communication and storytelling to amplify their career growth beyond academia, discusses the challenges that scientists face when transitioning from academic.
Mark shares insights on establishing genuine connections, the impact of non-verbal communication, and navigating social interactions within professional settings.
He highlights his strategic approaches to both interpersonal communication and broader public discourse, particularly concerning misinformation.
The discussion also covers the importance of empathy in communication, the role of emotional intelligence, and the practical aspects of engaging with policymakers and stakeholders.
Key TakeawaysThe Importance of Storytelling: Storytelling in scientific communication helps make complex information relatable and engaging to non-specialists.Combatting Misinformation: Empathy and understanding the emotional basis of misinformation are critical for effective public communication.Non-Verbal Communication Skills: These are essential in establishing trust and rapport, which facilitate better personal and professional relationships.Professional Growth Through Communication: Effective communication skills are crucial for scientists and engineers to transcend the limitations of technical jargon and demonstrate their broader societal value.
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Follow Mark BayerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markdanielbayer/
Company - Bayer Strategic Consulting: https://bayerstrategic.com/
Resources Mentioned During The Episode:
Book - “How to Know a Person” by David Brooks, exploring deeper personal connections. Amazon LinkBook - "Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion" by Robert B. Cialdini Amazon LinkMark’s Podcast: "When Science Speaks" Podcast Link – This platform shares insights on communication in non-academic careers for scientists and engineers.Complimentary Infographic on Effective Storytelling “Five Secrets to Connecting Through Captivating Storytelling,” available for listeners to enhance their communication strategies.
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/

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In this episode we hear Mark Sinatra, the CEO of Aspen HR, unravel the complexities of HR due diligence and its undeniable impact on successful acquisitions.
Some Topics Discussed Include:
The importance of HR diligence before acquisition, including compliance risks, benefits evaluation, and streamlining HR processes.Post-Acquisition HR Professionalization: Strategies for entrepreneurs to professionalize HR functions, understand employee roles, and the significance of job titles and descriptions.Enhancing Employee Benefits which are many times nonexistent in small businesses.
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Follow Mark SinatraLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/msinatra/
Company: https://aspenhr.com
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/

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In this episode Beki Darlin introduces the audience to using hypnotherapy to elevate your empire and gain business clarity. Chaos in business is inevitable, but how you navigate it makes all the difference.
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Follow Beki DarlinLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bekidarlin/
Company: SMB Simplified smbsimplified.com
Recommended Resources:
Book Mention: "Pitch Anything" by Oren Klaff. This book highlights the importance of understanding brain functions in persuasive communication.
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/

Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com

In this episode of the Unpolished MBA, we dive deep into the world of pricing strategies with John Ray, a seasoned expert in investment management, banking, and strategic advisory.
John founded Ray Business Advisors to help solopreneurs and small professional service firms navigate the complexities of value, positioning, and pricing.
He introduces us to his latest work, "The Generosity Mindset," a groundbreaking book that challenges traditional pricing norms and offers a counterintuitive approach to creating value and setting prices.
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Follow John RayLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnray1/
Company: https://www.johnray.co/
"The Generosity Mindset" book on Amazon
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/

Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com