Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast

Shannon Jean & Dave Hamilton
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Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast

Two long-time small-business owners, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean, come to you each week to talk through the trials, success, pitfalls and tips it takes to successfully run a small business in today's world. Hear real-world folks talk about real-world problems, letting you know not only what it takes to get it done but that you're not alone in doing it!

  1. 4 DAYS AGO

    The Every Platform Experiment

    In this episode of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss the concept of “Quitter’s Day,” which falls on the second Friday of January and highlights the high rate of people abandoning their New Year’s resolutions by mid-January. They share personal experiences with social media experiments, where Dave posts identical content across various platforms, including X, Threads, Mastodon, and LinkedIn, to measure audience engagement and decide where to focus future efforts. Shannon emphasizes the importance of intentional platform growth, sharing how he grew his following on X from 500 to over 33,000 by consistently engaging and applying the 80-20 content rule—80% value-driven content and 20% fun or intriguing posts. They also discuss platform-specific audiences, noting that different platforms cater to different demographics and engagement styles. Shannon explains his approach to managing content across platforms using an assistant, while Dave considers platform diversity for his various content topics—tech, business, and music. Both agree that it’s essential to grow one platform at a time to avoid being overwhelmed. The discussion touches on using algorithms effectively by creating secondary anonymous accounts for experimentation and leveraging high-engagement posts, even on seemingly unrelated topics, to boost overall visibility. They conclude by highlighting the importance of adaptability in social media strategy and hint at upcoming topics for future episodes, including emotional triggers in sales and an interview with Scott Jordan of ScottyVest. The episode ends with a call to action for listeners to leave a review. 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #613 for Casual Friday, January 10th, 2025 January 10th: Quitters Day 00:01:42 Dave’s EVERY PLATFORM experiment Threads LinkedIn Facebook Instagram X.com Mastodon Bluesky 00:18:08 Social Media Growth 101 Turn on notifications for larger accounts in your subject matter And then reply to get exposure 00:23:36 Business Brain 613 Outtro Next week: Scott Jordan from SCOTTeVEST Review Business Brain Subscribe to the show feedback@businessbrain.show Call/Text: (567) 274-6977 X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain

    25 min

  2. 6 DAYS AGO

    Getting Comfortable with Chaos

    In this episode of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean kick off the new year with an insightful discussion on embracing chaos, managing schedules, and giving more compliments. Shannon shares two things he loves about the New Year: selling exercise equipment during peak season and setting resolutions, particularly focusing on giving intentional and authentic compliments. He notes how giving compliments, especially to men who are often under-complimented, can uplift and improve social interactions. The conversation then shifts to managing chaos in personal and professional life. Dave describes his packed January schedule, balancing conferences, rehearsals, and travel while ensuring he stays productive and energized. He emphasizes the importance of mindset and planning to thrive in chaos rather than just survive it. Shannon shares a personal story about juggling tasks during a family vacation and how intentional planning leads to a sense of accomplishment. They also highlight the role of having the right partner in life, calling the right spouse a “force multiplier” in managing chaotic schedules. Both stress the significance of shared family calendars and tools like Calendly to coordinate busy schedules and prevent burnout. They wrap up by encouraging listeners to embrace chaos, give more compliments, and use effective tools for time management. Listeners are invited to leave reviews and keep living a “charmed life.” 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #612 for Wednesday, January 8th, 2025 January 8th: National Snuggle a Chicken Day 00:01:39 Arbitrage on Exercise equipment 00:02:16 New Year’s Resolutions Give out more compliments Compliment actions as a default 00:07:30 Review Business Brain 00:08:12 Comfortable with Chaos 00:16:47 The Right Spouse is a Force Multiplier 00:19:44 Managing your Family Calendar Calendly 00:22:13 Business Brain 612 Outtro Review Business Brain Subscribe to the show feedback@businessbrain.show Call/Text: (567) 274-6977 X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain

    23 min

  3. JAN 1

    Nuhuel Hilal, Founder - Iris Tattoo

    In this episode of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean welcome guest Noelle Hilal, owner of Iris Tattoo and Piercing. The discussion dives into the innovative approach Noelle has taken to redefine the tattoo industry, emphasizing customer experience, premium service, and top-tier talent management. Noelle explains how Iris Tattoo was born out of the desire to improve the traditional tattoo shop experience, creating a boutique-style environment often likened to an “Apple store” for tattoos. The studio prioritizes customer service, offering curated experiences that include amenities like beverages, concierge service, and high levels of communication. Iris charges a premium—sometimes four times standard rates—but ensures unmatched quality and comfort. The conversation also highlights Noelle’s approach to managing talent, treating tattoo artists as “internal clients” and providing stability to attract and retain top talent. While the artists are independent contractors, Noelle fosters loyalty through robust support systems, training, and ensuring their focus remains on their craft. Noelle shares challenges, including a difficult partnership breakup, and emphasizes the importance of complementary skills in business relationships. He also discusses plans to expand Iris Tattoo into new markets, choosing locations like Nashville based on gut instincts and market potential. The hosts and Noelle reflect on the entrepreneurial journey, the loneliness it can bring, and the importance of community and support networks like the Business Brain podcast. The episode concludes with encouragement for listeners to pursue their dreams in 2025, emphasizing connection and growth. 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #611 for Wednesday, January 1st, 2025 January 1st: Copyright Law Day 00:02:41 Special Guest: Nahuel Hilal from Iris Tattoo Curating the experience 00:05:33 Making a tattoo shop look like…an Apple Store? 00:06:08 The price needs to be more expensive…like 4x. 00:07:18 Artists are my talent…and therefore they’re my internal customers 00:07:59 We are “a Bridge”? 00:08:19 Attracting and retaining talent Stability is the most valuable thing 00:09:29 SPONSOR: Launch, run, and make your business official at LegalZoom.com — Promo code BBSHOW gets 10% off any business formation product. 00:11:17 Sounds like running a band 00:13:42 We treat every customer like it’s their birthday 00:14:59 Minimizing Unhappy Customers The Two Tokens of Customer Service Magic phrases “Don’t worry, it’s only permanent.” “Tattoos are like children…they’re not going to come out the way you thought, and you’re going to love them anyway.” “We own our mistakes.” 00:17:28 Messi’s number is… 01? 00:19:44 Finding the next 00:22:20 Partnership Breakups Partnerships Can Kill You The best partners cover your blindspots 00:26:12 The ideal Business Brain listener 00:28:28 Business Brain 611 Outtro Follow Nahuel Hilal from Iris Tattoo Review Business Brain Subscribe to the show

    30 min

  4. 12/25/2024

    EOY Expenses and Deals

    In this episode of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean share insights and stories, kicking off with holiday greetings and their sponsor, LegalZoom, which simplifies business setup. They discuss the value of LegalZoom for cost-effective business needs and transition to a casual “grab bag” discussion. Dave and Shannon explore their recent experiences with car buying, including strategies to save money, using networks for discounts, and leveraging AI tools like ChatGPT to compare vehicle options. They highlight how networks and AI can assist in decision-making and negotiations. They also touch on using credit management strategies, such as freezing and unfreezing credit to enhance security for business owners. Shannon shares a story about receiving supplier discounts through social media connections, emphasizing the power of networking. Dave reflects on lessons learned about dealer pricing and the benefits of financing for discounts during the pandemic. They also discuss the value of understanding dealership incentives like holdbacks and bonuses. They highlight the peculiar productivity of the holiday period between Christmas and New Year’s, noting how fewer external demands allow for personal projects, reflection, and productivity. The episode closes with reflections on the year, appreciation for listeners, and holiday wishes, promising an exciting 2025 for Business Brain. 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #610 for Wednesday, December 25th, 2024 December 25th: National Pumpkin Pie Day 00:01:45 This is a good week to buy a new car! 00:05:21 Using the power of your network to help with big purchase decisions 00:08:15 SPONSOR: Launch, run, and make your business official at LegalZoom.com — Promo code BBSHOW gets 10% off any business formation product. 00:10:25 Use ChatGPT to tell you about how car dealerships work Keep your credit frozen Freeze Experian Freeze TransUnion Freeze Equifax 00:18:53 Find time to be productive! 00:20:46 Business Brain 610 Outtro Review Business Brain Subscribe to the show feedback@businessbrain.show Call/Text: (567) 274-6977 X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain

    21 min

  5. 12/20/2024

    Break the Rules

    In this episode of Business Brain, hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss a range of topics, emphasizing the importance of creativity, adaptability, and breaking conventional rules in business and life. They highlight tools like ChatGPT and Grammarly, showcasing how AI can enhance productivity, creativity, and problem-solving. The conversation touches on using AI for brainstorming, tech support, and exploring innovative ways to simplify tasks. They also dive into the concept of challenging traditional rules, sharing anecdotes about questioning societal and business “guardrails” that often hinder creativity or progress. Shannon reflects on his upbringing, where his parents instilled the idea that “reality is flexible,” encouraging confidence and rule-breaking as a path to success. Both agree that many rules are either arbitrary or created to maintain control, encouraging listeners to find ways to navigate or challenge these barriers. The hosts also discuss leveraging tax laws and compliance rules creatively, underscoring the importance of staying informed and consulting experts to make the most of existing systems. They highlight the value of experimentation and not letting fear of failure or rigid mindsets prevent action. The episode closes with an invitation for listeners to share feedback on what they’ve learned throughout the year and what they’d like to explore in the future, reinforcing the show’s mission of helping others live “charmed lives.” 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #609 for Casual Friday, December 20th, 2024 December 20th: Ugly Christmas Sweater Day 00:01:16 DLH-ChatGPT accepts (and successfully-parses) screenshots, you know. 00:05:07 Grammarly acquires Coda 00:07:19 SPONSOR: Vanta. Vanta automates compliance for ISO 27001, SOC 2, GDPR, and more, saving you time and money — while helping you build customer trust. Save $1,000 at Vanta.com/brain 00:08:45 Breaking the rules Avoid the guardrails 00:12:30 “Reality is flexible” – Shannon’s mom 00:17:53 Business Brain 609 Outtro Review Business Brain Subscribe to the show feedback@businessbrain.show Call/Text: (567) 274-6977 X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain

    19 min

  6. 12/18/2024

    Action - NOW

    Dave and Shannon discuss the relevance of business cards in today’s world, emphasizing creative and practical ways to make them valuable. Shannon suggests using unique designs and multi-purpose formats, such as including discount coupons or magnetic versions for placement in strategic locations like break rooms. Dave highlights the convenience of having essential details on cards for conferences and trade shows, underscoring their usefulness in building connections. The hosts pivot to the importance of taking immediate action rather than delaying plans, especially as the year winds down. They share personal anecdotes and strategies for staying productive, such as working at night, utilizing downtime like TV-watching for brainstorming, and consistently achieving small goals daily. Shannon encourages writing one page daily and sharing it to build accountability and momentum. Both emphasize that consistent, incremental progress is key to entrepreneurial success. They conclude by inviting listeners to share their productivity tips and leave reviews, stressing the importance of community feedback in growing their podcast.   00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #608 for Wednesday, December 18th, 2024 December 18th: Answer the Telephone Like Buddy The Elf Day 00:01:27 Beware the weather 00:03:02 Do you still need business cards? Idea: make it a calling card They’ve gotta have a little THWACK! 00:10:41 SPONSOR: Vanta. Vanta automates compliance for ISO 27001, SOC 2, GDPR, and more, saving you time and money — while helping you build customer trust. Save $1,000 at Vanta.com/brain 00:12:44 Don’t wait to take action Do it now! 00:15:02 Being intentional during TV Time The charmed life is the uncommon life 00:20:49 Business Brain 608 Outtro Review Business Brain Subscribe to the show feedback@businessbrain.show Call/Text: (567) 274-6977 X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain

    21 min

  7. 12/13/2024

    Best and Stupidest

    Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss the value of fostering community, gaining insights from team members, and continuously experimenting to improve business operations in episode 607 of Business Brain. They begin with lighthearted banter about National Ice Cream Day and share listener reviews and feedback, highlighting the power of community and networking. They recount a listener’s positive experience hiring a guest from a past episode, which inspires a discussion about creating a platform for the Business Brain community, possibly through Slack, Discord, or LinkedIn. The hosts emphasize the importance of asking employees impactful questions like, “What’s the best idea to improve our company?” and “What’s the stupidest thing we’re doing right now?” They explore how these questions, along with additional ones generated through AI tools, can lead to meaningful insights and innovations. However, they stress the need to manage expectations and follow through on actionable feedback to maintain trust and engagement. They also reflect on lessons learned from other businesses, such as Fastenal’s innovative vending machine model, which streamlines supply management for companies. Dave shares his experience with leveraging trade organization memberships for networking and business strategy insights, while Shannon reiterates the importance of experimentation and continuous learning. The episode concludes with a call for listener reviews and feedback, emphasizing the show’s commitment to providing value and encouraging a spirit of collaboration and growth within the Business Brain community. 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #607 for Casual Friday, December 13th, 2024 December 13th: National Ice Cream Day 00:01:42 Business Brain Review 00:02:40 Tom hired Jack Tompkins after listening to BB 307 00:04:31 Where is the home for the Business Brain community? 00:08:24 SPONSOR: Incogni. Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code BRAIN at incogni.com/brain and get 60% off an annual plan. 00:10:02 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today! 00:11:20 Two questions to ask and improve your business today Fastenal What is the best idea you have right now to improve our business? What is the stupidest thing we’re doing right now? And ten more questions from ChatGPT 00:21:47 Business Brain 607 Outtro Review Business Brain Subscribe to the show feedback@businessbrain.show Call/Text: (567) 274-6977 X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & a href="https://www.linkedin.

    23 min

  8. 12/11/2024

    Selling is Not Enough + Year End Tasks

    Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss strategies for elevating your business on episode 606 of Business Brain. They emphasize the importance of going beyond merely listing products on platforms like eBay, Poshmark, or Whatnot. Building relationships with platform executives and engaging in their communities can lead to invaluable benefits, such as media opportunities and prioritized support. Shannon shares a personal anecdote about gaining concierge service on eBay by participating in a promotional video, which later resulted in significant advantages for his business. They highlight networking as a critical element in business, encouraging sellers to connect on LinkedIn, attend trade shows, and engage in online communities to stand out and create pathways for support and growth. The episode also touches on the importance of end-of-year financial planning, such as evaluating fiscal year alignment, contributing to retirement accounts like solo 401(k)s, and effectively choosing health insurance plans. Shannon advocates for a reflective practice of writing a one-page summary daily or annually, documenting business and personal highlights, and sharing it for accountability. The hosts underscore the value of using tools like AI for summarizing and analyzing personal or business data to identify strengths and weaknesses. They close the episode by encouraging listeners to engage with them for further advice and continue living “charmed lives.” 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #606 for Wednesday, December 11th, 2024 December 11th: National App Day 00:02:00 Selling is not enough Are you a part of the community? Are you connected to the people at the companies whose tools you use? LinkedIn, Conferences, online communities Be positive. Be in the flow. 00:09:39 SPONSOR: Incogni. Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code BRAIN at incogni.com/brain and get 60% off an annual plan. 00:11:16 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today! 00:12:35 End of year tasks Should your company’s year-end be December/calendar year Contribute to your retirement accounts 00:16:13 Healthcare… business plan or individual plan? 00:19:09 Write one page per day…and share it with someone Start thinking about your executive summary 00:21:41 Business Brain 606 Outtro Review Business Brain Subscribe to the show feedback@businessbrain.show Call/Text: (567) 274-6977 X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain Facebook: Dave Hamilton, a href="https://facebook.

    22 min
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5
out of 5
41 Ratings

About

Two long-time small-business owners, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean, come to you each week to talk through the trials, success, pitfalls and tips it takes to successfully run a small business in today's world. Hear real-world folks talk about real-world problems, letting you know not only what it takes to get it done but that you're not alone in doing it!

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