The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

Josh Elledge of UpMyInfluence.com

You’re gonna love this DAILY, commercial-free entrepreneur spotlight show. We feature CEOs and founders of 6-9 figure B2B companies. Agencies, coaches, consultants, and other leaders share not only their success stories - but their advice for business leaders focused on business growth. You’re going to hear real stories from real people all in 15-25 minutes time - perfect for your commute. On this podcast, your host, Josh Elledge encourages entrepreneurs to share not only their expertise but their stories and their hearts. We believe that every person has a unique message which can positively impact the world. Even YOU! If you’d like to be featured on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, apply here: https://UpMyInfluence.com/guest/

  1. -14 Ч

    2322 - A Path to Business Alignment and Personal Fulfillment with Stefanie Carlstedt

    How Human Design Can Transform Your Business — Insights from Stefanie CarlstedtIn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge sits down with Stefanie Carlstedt, the founder of Stefanie Carlstedt Coaching, to explore how Human Design can help entrepreneurs make aligned decisions, reduce burnout, and build businesses that honor their natural energy. Stefanie shares her personal transformation and offers practical tools to help founders reconnect with their authentic selves for sustainable success. Build a Business That Honors Your EnergyStefanie Carlstedt’s entrepreneurial story began with hustle and burnout. Like many, she followed mainstream strategies and advice that ultimately led her away from her own instincts. Everything changed when she discovered Human Design, a system that revealed how she was naturally designed to operate in life and business. That clarity allowed her to rebuild her business from a place of alignment and ease. Human Design combines ancient wisdom and modern science to map out your Authority (how you’re best equipped to make decisions) and Energy Type (how you work, rest, and engage with others). Stefanie emphasizes that once entrepreneurs begin trusting their internal guidance—whether it’s emotional clarity, gut response, or mental reflection—they experience less stress, better results, and more joy in their work. She also shares how simple practices like daily walks, avoiding fear-driven content, and intentional media consumption help her stay grounded and focused. By learning to tune out external noise, Stefanie believes entrepreneurs can lead more intuitively, parent more effectively, and grow businesses that feel purposeful and sustainable. About Stefanie CarlstedtStefanie Carlstedt is a certified Human Design coach who helps entrepreneurs realign with their true selves and build businesses that reflect their natural strengths. Through her coaching, Stefanie empowers clients to escape burnout and rediscover clarity through self-awareness and energetic alignment. About Stefanie Carlstedt CoachingStefanie Carlstedt Coaching supports entrepreneurs with personalized Human Design charts, reports, and coaching. Stefanie’s mission is to help business owners thrive by honoring their energy and making decisions that align with who they truly are. Links Mentioned in This EpisodeStefanie Carlstedt’s WebsiteConnect with Stefanie on LinkedIn Key Episode HighlightsStefanie’s burnout-to-alignment journey through Human DesignHow to use your Human Design Authority for better business decisionsThe impact of understanding your Energy Type on productivity and well-beingGrounding habits that improve focus, reduce stress, and increase clarityHuman Design as a tool for more effective leadership and relationships ConclusionStefanie Carlstedt offers a refreshing approach for entrepreneurs who are tired of one-size-fits-all business advice. Through Human Design, she helps leaders reconnect with their internal compass and build success from a place of alignment and authenticity. This episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to create impact without burning out. 🎧 More from The Thoughtful Entrepreneur🎙️ Want to be featured on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur? Get your voice in front...

    16 мин.
  2. -1 ДН.

    2321 - The Journey from Anxiety to Empowerment with BeyondEQ International's Aasha LaCount

    Beyond Emotional Intelligence: Aasha LaCount’s Transformative Approach to Healing, Growth, and LeadershipIn this episode, host Josh Elledge interviews Aasha LaCount, CEO of BeyondEQ International, to discuss how emotional intelligence can be used as a gateway to deep healing and authentic leadership. Aasha shares her personal journey from anxiety and illness to empowerment through energy work, movement, and emotional awareness. She offers listeners a new lens on personal development—one that integrates mind, body, and energy for lasting transformation. Redefining Emotional Intelligence for Modern LeadersAasha believes emotional intelligence (EQ) goes far beyond self-awareness and empathy—it’s about understanding the energy beneath your emotions and learning to regulate it. By combining neuroscience, energy healing, and authentic self-expression, she helps individuals break free from old narratives that drive stress and disconnection. Her approach blends science and spirituality, empowering clients to feel their emotions fully without being controlled by them. She also introduces the importance of fun and play as tools for healing and leadership. Through activities like roller skating and dance, Aasha encourages leaders to reconnect with their inner joy, creativity, and authenticity. Fun, she says, isn’t frivolous—it’s essential for balance, innovation, and genuine connection. Ultimately, Aasha challenges leaders to embrace sovereignty—owning their truth while allowing others the same freedom. By releasing control, healing core wounds, and prioritizing authentic expression, individuals can achieve both emotional mastery and sustainable success. Her framework transforms EQ from a corporate skillset into a lifestyle of self-awareness, vitality, and purpose. About Aasha LaCountAasha LaCount is the CEO and founder of BeyondEQ International, an emotional intelligence consultancy helping leaders and organizations achieve personal and professional transformation. Through a unique blend of science, energy work, and emotional coaching, Aasha empowers clients to build healthier relationships, stronger leadership presence, and deeper self-understanding. About BeyondEQ InternationalBeyondEQ International is a global coaching and consulting firm dedicated to elevating emotional intelligence through integrative methods that combine data-driven assessment with energetic healing. The company works with executives, entrepreneurs, and teams to create sustainable success rooted in authenticity, alignment, and emotional balance. Links Mentioned in This EpisodeBeyondEQInternational.comAasha LaCount LinkedIn Profile Key Episode HighlightsEmotional intelligence is more than mindset—it’s energy, embodiment, and authenticity.Healing core wounds and integrating fun can unlock creativity and resilience.True sovereignty means accepting what you can’t control while staying grounded in self-awareness.Aasha’s method combines neuroscience and energy work for fast, lasting breakthroughs.Emotional mastery is the foundation of personal freedom and effective leadership. ConclusionAasha LaCount’s approach redefines what it means to be emotionally intelligent in today’s world. By integrating science, energy, and joy, she shows that true growth isn’t about managing emotions—it’s about transforming them into wisdom, balance, and power. Her insights challenge entrepreneurs and leaders to lead with heart, authenticity, and...

    19 мин.
  3. -2 ДН.

    2320 - 12 Steps to Maximize Profit and Streamline Your Business Operations with GLOVISOR's Joe Abreu

    Unlocking Business Success: In-Depth Strategies from Joe Abreu’s Profit Optimization ProgramIn this episode, host Josh Elledge interviews Joe Abreu, founder of GLOVISOR and creator of the Profit Optimization Program. Joe shares practical strategies for business owners to increase profitability, streamline operations, and regain balance in their lives. Drawing on years of experience advising entrepreneurs, he outlines actionable methods to uncover hidden costs, optimize systems, and improve both financial and personal well-being. The Power of Profit OptimizationJoe explains that most business owners operate in constant motion but lack clarity about where their profits truly come from—or where they’re being lost. He introduces the concept of identifying “ghost expenses,” or overlooked costs that quietly erode margins. By conducting detailed audits and setting clear financial goals, owners can reclaim thousands in profit and reinvest strategically. Beyond cost control, Joe emphasizes operational efficiency and mindset. His 12-step Profit Optimization Program helps entrepreneurs design scalable systems, delegate effectively, and prepare their business as if it were being sold—even if it’s not. He also connects wellness to profitability, stressing that sustainable success requires a healthy, focused leader. Joe’s approach blends data-driven analysis with human insight. By combining coaching, technology, and accountability, he empowers business owners to gain clarity, reduce stress, and build companies that thrive. As he notes, “Profitability isn’t just about numbers—it’s about freedom.” About Joe AbreuJoe Abreu is the founder of GLOVISOR and author of the Profit Optimization Program, where he helps business owners optimize profits, systems, and leadership. Through a unique blend of financial clarity, operational strategy, and personal development, Joe has guided entrepreneurs across multiple industries toward greater profitability and balance. About GLOVISORGLOVISOR is a business optimization and coaching company dedicated to helping entrepreneurs achieve clarity, profitability, and freedom. The firm’s Profit Optimization Program combines hands-on coaching, digital resources, and accountability systems to help business owners streamline operations and increase financial performance. Links Mentioned in This EpisodeGLOVISOR WebsiteJoe Abreu LinkedIn Profile Key Episode HighlightsHow to uncover and eliminate hidden “ghost expenses”Building scalable systems and processes for growthThe importance of wellness in business performanceCombining coaching and automation for clarity and resultsActionable steps to optimize profit and reclaim freedom ConclusionJoe Abreu’s framework for profit optimization shows that business success isn’t about working harder—it’s about working smarter. By clarifying finances, tightening systems, and prioritizing well-being, owners can transform their businesses into profitable, sustainable ventures. Whether you’re scaling, restructuring, or simply seeking balance, Joe’s strategies offer a clear path forward toward more profit and peace of mind. 🎧 More from The Thoughtful Entrepreneur🎙️ Want to be featured on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur? Get your voice in front of 50K+ listeners. Schedule your guest spot here » 🤝 Consultant

    17 мин.
  4. -3 ДН.

    2319 - Essential Insights for Home Services Business Owners with Commonwealth M&A's Joseph Bergin

    How to Prepare Your Home Services Business for a Successful Sale: Expert Insights from Joe Bergin of Commonwealth M&AIn this episode, host Josh Elledge interviews Joe Bergin, Co-founder of Commonwealth M&A, about how home services business owners—such as those in HVAC, plumbing, electrical, roofing, or landscaping—can prepare their companies for a successful sale. With his blend of blue-collar roots and M&A expertise, Joe shares how to transform years of hard work into a legacy-defining exit. He provides straightforward, actionable advice to help business owners position their companies for maximum value and long-term success. Preparing for the “Deal of a Lifetime”Joe explains that selling a home services business isn’t something to rush—it’s a process that ideally begins three to five years before you plan to exit. Investors are drawn to these companies for their recurring revenue, resilience, and workforce stability, but only if the business can operate independently of its owner. To increase your company’s value, Joe recommends shifting from an owner-operator mindset to that of an asset manager—documenting systems, empowering leaders, and ensuring your business thrives without daily oversight. Financial clarity is equally vital. Moving from cash-based to accrual accounting and cleaning up your financial records gives buyers confidence and accurately reflects your company’s true performance. Joe emphasizes the power of predictable, recurring revenue through maintenance contracts and service plans, which not only stabilize cash flow but also make your business more attractive to investors seeking long-term value. Ultimately, Joe’s message is about intentional preparation. By treating your company as a scalable asset, investing in your people, and planning early, you’ll attract premium buyers and secure better terms. With experienced advisors like Commonwealth M&A guiding the process, home services business owners can navigate the complexities of selling while protecting the legacy they’ve built. About Joe BerginJoe Bergin is the Co-founder of Commonwealth M&A, a boutique mergers and acquisitions firm that helps home services business owners plan and execute profitable exits. Combining blue-collar experience with corporate M&A strategy, Joe specializes in helping entrepreneurs turn their businesses into sellable assets that deliver maximum value and freedom. About Commonwealth M&ACommonwealth M&A is a boutique advisory firm serving small to mid-sized home services companies. By limiting the number of clients each year, they provide high-touch, customized support through every stage of the M&A process—from readiness assessment and valuation to negotiation, due diligence, and closing. Their mission: helping business owners achieve their “deal of a lifetime.” Links Mentioned in This EpisodeCommonwealth M&A WebsiteJoe Bergin LinkedIn Profile Key Episode HighlightsWhy home services companies are in high demand among investorsFour key steps to prepare for a successful saleHow accrual accounting boosts credibility and valuationThe importance of recurring revenue and team empowermentWhy early preparation leads to stronger deals and smoother transitions ConclusionSelling your business is one of the most impactful financial decisions you’ll ever make. Joe Bergin’s advice underscores the importance of early preparation, strong systems, and a clear exit...

    19 мин.
  5. -4 ДН.

    2318 - Finding Your Epic in Business and Beyond with Phoenix Growth Partners Inc's Kelly O'Neil

    Navigating the Next Phase: Kelly O’Neil’s Expert Guide for Gen X Entrepreneurs Seeking Purpose and LegacyIn this episode, host Josh Elledge interviews Kelly O’Neil, founder of Phoenix Growth Partners, Inc. and host of the Epic AF Podcast. Kelly draws from her decades of experience helping Gen X entrepreneurs reinvent success, sharing powerful strategies for scaling with purpose and building legacy-driven businesses. She explores how shifting priorities, changing work dynamics, and emotional growth converge in midlife entrepreneurship—and how to align your next chapter with meaning, freedom, and impact. Redefining Success for the Next ChapterKelly explains that many Gen X entrepreneurs reach a crossroads after years of building businesses, raising families, and achieving traditional success. This phase isn’t about burnout—it’s about evolution. Entrepreneurs begin asking deeper questions: Is this still fulfilling? What legacy am I creating? Her solution is the EPIC Framework, which helps business owners identify their purpose (why they’re here), genius (their unique way of creating value), and desires (what they want now). By aligning these three elements, leaders can pivot or scale their businesses intentionally—designing models that reflect who they’ve become, not just who they were when they started. Kelly emphasizes that the old hustle mentality no longer works. Instead, she encourages business owners to embrace flow, leverage experience over effort, and focus on building sustainable systems that support both business success and personal fulfillment. Her message: “You don’t have to grind harder to grow—you just have to evolve how you lead.” About Kelly O’NeilKelly O’Neil is the founder of Phoenix Growth Partners, Inc., a strategist, speaker, and best-selling author who helps entrepreneurs scale purposefully while reclaiming their joy and impact. As the host of the Epic AF Podcast, she blends business strategy with personal transformation, guiding leaders to design the next phase of their success with clarity and confidence. About Phoenix Growth Partners, Inc.Phoenix Growth Partners empowers established entrepreneurs to redefine growth through strategic realignment, leadership evolution, and business transformation. The firm helps Gen X founders pivot from hustle to harmony by creating sustainable, scalable business models aligned with their evolving goals and values. Learn more at kellyoneil.com. Links Mentioned in This Episodekellyoneil.com WebsiteKelly O'Neil LinkedIn Profile Key Episode HighlightsThe EPIC Framework: purpose, genius, and desire as a foundation for growthWhy the old hustle model doesn’t work for today’s entrepreneursHow to align your business model with your life’s next chapterThe importance of emotional and identity transitions in entrepreneurshipPractical steps for Gen X founders to scale, pivot, or plan their legacy ConclusionKelly O’Neil reminds listeners that reinvention isn’t failure—it’s the natural evolution of successful entrepreneurship. By honoring your shifting values, leveraging your experience, and building structures that support freedom, you can create your most impactful chapter yet. The key to legacy isn’t working harder—it’s working truer to who you’ve become. 🎧 More from The Thoughtful...

    18 мин.
  6. -5 ДН.

    2317 - Key Insights for Service-Based Businesses Facing Modern Challenges with Walsh Business Growth Insitute's Michael Walsh

    Unlocking Sustainable Growth for Service-Based Businesses: Insights from Michael WalshIn this episode, host Josh Elledge interviews Michael Walsh, President and Founder of Walsh Business Growth Institute. Michael shares insights from over 30 years of helping service-based businesses scale successfully while keeping their people, purpose, and processes aligned. The discussion explores the stages where businesses typically plateau, the impact of AI and generational shifts, and how leaders can empower their teams to drive sustainable growth. Building People-First Growth SystemsMichael explains that most service-based companies hit growth ceilings around $2M, $5M, $10M, and $20M in revenue — not because of lack of opportunity, but because their structures can’t keep up. As businesses scale, leaders often tighten control, adding more rules and oversight. Instead, sustainable growth requires empowerment — giving talented teams autonomy, clarity, and purpose. He emphasizes that today’s workforce, especially Millennials and Gen Z, values trust, flexibility, and inclusion. Leaders must evolve from top-down management to coaching, mentorship, and development. Post-pandemic realities and rapid AI adoption have further transformed how businesses operate, making adaptability and people-first systems non-negotiable. Drawing from his new book, Freedom by Design, Michael outlines four behavioral pillars of successful growth: understanding individual strengths, building complementary teams, fostering supportive environments, and maintaining flexible structures. His approach helps leaders break through plateaus and rediscover the joy of business ownership by creating alignment between people, purpose, and performance. About Michael WalshMichael Walsh is the President and Founder of Walsh Business Growth Institute and author of Freedom by Design: The Established Business Owner’s Guide to Grow, Make an Impact, and Find the Joy Again. With three decades of experience advising service-based organizations, Michael helps leaders navigate growth plateaus, empower their teams, and build businesses that thrive without burning out. About Walsh Business Growth InstituteThe Walsh Business Growth Institute helps established service-based companies overcome growth barriers through strengths-based strategy, leadership development, and structural optimization. Their customized programs empower business owners to scale intentionally, improve team performance, and create long-term operational freedom. Learn more at walshbusinessgrowth.com. Links Mentioned in This EpisodeWalsh Business Growth Institute WebsiteMichael Walsh LinkedIn Profile Key Episode HighlightsThe four common growth plateaus service-based businesses faceWhy structure, not opportunity, limits growthHow generational shifts and AI are reshaping leadership and teamworkThe power of people-first systems and strengths-based leadershipPractical strategies for building sustainable, empowering business structures ConclusionMichael Walsh reminds leaders that growth is not about working harder — it’s about working smarter, with empowered people and adaptive systems. By understanding what truly drives your team, embracing flexibility, and leading with purpose, service-based business owners can scale sustainably while rediscovering fulfillment and joy in...

    19 мин.
  7. -6 ДН.

    2316 - Five Common Mistakes Keeping You Stuck in Your Business with Tori Boats

    How to Scale Your Business with Purpose: In-Depth Insights from Tori BoatsIn this episode, host Josh Elledge interviews Tori Boats, business strategist, coach, and founder of toriboats.com. Tori shares how she built and scaled multiple companies—including an eight-figure business with 75 employees—and now helps entrepreneurs grow intentionally without sacrificing fulfillment. The conversation explores mindset, purpose, and systems, revealing how business owners can align personal values with sustainable growth. Scaling with Purpose: Aligning Mindset, Vision, and GrowthTori explains that most entrepreneurs don’t stop pushing after reaching success—they keep striving because they’re driven by impact, purpose, or the desire to reach their full potential. However, without clarity on why they’re growing, founders risk building businesses that drain them instead of fueling their lives. She emphasizes that scaling must start with self-awareness and a clear vision—“Are you building a business that serves your life, or one that takes it over?” Through her Visionary Advantage System, Tori helps leaders integrate mindset, vision, identity, and operations to scale sustainably. This framework encourages entrepreneurs to question long-held assumptions, upgrade their systems, and align teams around shared values. She also highlights common mistakes that keep businesses stuck—like over-relying on old strategies or neglecting personal balance—and shares practical steps for building resilient, purpose-driven organizations. Tori reminds founders that sustainable success requires integration: combining strategy and heart, systems and people, ambition and rest. Her approach bridges business excellence with personal alignment, offering a roadmap for leaders ready to scale beyond seven figures while maintaining joy, clarity, and freedom. About Tori BoatsTori Boats is a business strategist, coach, and founder of toriboats.com. With experience building multiple companies, including an eight-figure business, she now helps entrepreneurs scale with purpose through her Visionary Advantage System. Tori also hosts the Scale Right Revolution podcast, where she shares tools, insights, and stories that empower business owners to grow sustainably and intentionally. About ToriBoats.comToriBoats.com provides strategy, coaching, and resources for entrepreneurs seeking purposeful growth. Through programs, playbooks, and the Scale Right Revolution podcast, Tori’s platform helps founders overcome plateaus, strengthen leadership, and build thriving businesses that align with their lives and values. Links Mentioned in This EpisodeToriboats.com WebsiteTori Boats LinkedIn Profile Key Episode HighlightsWhy purpose and mindset are essential for sustainable scalingHow the Visionary Advantage System helps align business and life goalsCommon mistakes that keep companies stuck at seven figuresThe importance of integrating systems, team culture, and leadership identityPractical strategies to scale intentionally without burnout ConclusionTori Boats challenges...

    22 мин.
  8. 11 НОЯБ.

    2315 - Turning Healthcare Challenges into Opportunities with Parable Associates' Jason Bryll

    Unlocking Healthcare Data: Expert Insights from Jason Bryll of Parable AssociatesIn this episode, host Josh Elledge interviews Jason Bryll, Founder and CEO of Parable Associates, a company helping healthcare organizations harness their data for growth, efficiency, and better patient outcomes. Jason discusses how healthcare’s complex data systems—spanning patients, payers, and providers—can be transformed into powerful strategic assets. The conversation explores modern data infrastructure, AI adoption, and how healthcare leaders can turn information into action. Turning Healthcare Data into a Strategic AdvantageJason explains that healthcare organizations deal with some of the most fragmented and regulated data ecosystems of any industry. With multiple payment sources, strict HIPAA compliance, and disconnected systems, many practices struggle to translate data into actionable insights. Through Parable Associates, Jason helps clients design robust, scalable data infrastructures that unify information from EHRs, practice management tools, and claims systems to create real-time visibility into operations. He highlights how modern tools like Microsoft Fabric, Databricks, and Snowflake are transforming how providers process and analyze information. By automating data pipelines, implementing AI-driven analytics, and empowering teams with dashboards, healthcare organizations can reduce claim denials, improve revenue cycles, and accelerate cash flow. Jason emphasizes that true transformation begins with data governance—ensuring clean, accessible, and secure data before layering on advanced analytics. Ultimately, Parable’s approach is rooted in measurable ROI. From reducing days sales outstanding (DSO) to uncovering revenue bottlenecks, their systems deliver tangible results. Jason advises healthcare executives to start with a specific business problem—such as cash flow or patient scheduling—and build data strategies around it. “Better reporting is like giving staff a utility belt,” he says. “It equips them to solve problems faster and with more confidence.” About Jason BryllJason Bryll is the Founder and CEO of Parable Associates, where he helps large healthcare organizations transform fragmented data into operational insights. With deep experience in analytics, systems design, and healthcare finance, Jason has worked with providers nationwide to improve data quality, cash flow, and performance through tailored, scalable solutions. About Parable AssociatesParable Associates specializes in healthcare analytics and data engineering, helping medical groups, hospitals, and specialty providers build scalable data ecosystems. The firm designs client-owned systems that unify data across clinical, operational, and financial functions, delivering clear insights and measurable ROI. Learn more at parableassociates.com. Links Mentioned in This EpisodeParable AssociatesConnect with Jason Bryll on LinkedIn Key Episode HighlightsWhy healthcare data is uniquely complex and siloedHow to build scalable, secure data infrastructureUsing analytics to improve cash flow and reduce claim delaysPractical applications of AI and modern BI platformsHow Parable Associates delivers measurable ROI through dataActionable advice for healthcare leaders and data teams ConclusionJason Bryll’s insights...

    16 мин.
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You’re gonna love this DAILY, commercial-free entrepreneur spotlight show. We feature CEOs and founders of 6-9 figure B2B companies. Agencies, coaches, consultants, and other leaders share not only their success stories - but their advice for business leaders focused on business growth. You’re going to hear real stories from real people all in 15-25 minutes time - perfect for your commute. On this podcast, your host, Josh Elledge encourages entrepreneurs to share not only their expertise but their stories and their hearts. We believe that every person has a unique message which can positively impact the world. Even YOU! If you’d like to be featured on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, apply here: https://UpMyInfluence.com/guest/