The Queen of Automation

Meghan Donnelly
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The Queen of Automation

Optimize your business operations. Tune in to hear how we help founders & business owners build simple, streamlined systems & digital experience operations that scale.

  1. 17 DIC

    Episode #26 Started Talking, Never Stopped: How 2024 Became My Podcast Year

    In this heartfelt wrap-up episode, I take a moment to reflect on an incredible year of podcasting. This has been a dream of mine for a long time, and 2024 was the year it all came together. I couldn’t be more excited about what we’ve built and what’s on the horizon for 2025! This episode is all about gratitude—for the listeners, the guests, and everyone who has supported the podcast along the way. I also share some thoughts on the power of taking that first leap toward a big goal and how it feels to see it come to life. Thank you for being part of this journey. Wishing you a restful, joyful holiday season and an amazing start to the new year!

    2 min

  2. 10 DIC

    Episode #25 Mastering Time and Building Real Relationships with Tom Clement

    In this episode of The Queen of Automation, Meghan Donnelly sits down with Tom Clement, an experienced entrepreneur, professor, and systems thinker. Together, they explore the realities of work-life balance, the importance of building systems for small businesses, and how leveraging automation can give entrepreneurs back their most valuable resource—time. Tom shares his unique journey, from owning a motorcycle dealership to teaching business strategies and working with incarcerated individuals to provide hope and reduce recidivism. The conversation covers the misconceptions of "work-life balance," the value of loyalty and humanity in the workplace, and practical steps for creating systems that simplify operations. Key Topics Discussed: Tom’s journey from business owner to professor.Why "work-life balance" is a myth and how to embrace a unified life.The importance of aligning your work with your life goals.The power of systems and how small businesses can build them effectively.Using automation and AI to create operational manuals and save time.The importance of fostering meaningful connections, both online and offline. CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS (00:00) Work-Life Balance and Life Goals (14:00) Effective Time Management Strategies (21:13) Navigating LinkedIn and Building Relationships (33:30) Leveraging Technology for Success CHAPTERS WITH LONG SUMMARIES  (00:00) Work-Life Balance and Life Goals This chapter of the Queen of Automation podcast features a conversation with Tom Clement, a seasoned business leader and educator. We explore Tom's diverse career journey from owning a motorcycle dealership to becoming a business professor, including his unique role in teaching incarcerated individuals in Arizona. The discussion centers on the concept of work-life balance, with both Tom and I expressing skepticism about the traditional notion of separating work from personal life. Instead, we advocate for integrating work and personal life into a single life plan driven by personal goals. By prioritizing life goals over conventional career paths, individuals can create a lifestyle that aligns with their personal aspirations, whether that means taking unconventional days off or making career choices that support family and personal fulfillment. (14:00) Effective Time Management Strategies This chapter explores the timeless principles of time management inspired by Alan Lakin, a prominent figure in the field from the 70s and 80s. I recount my experience of inviting a dean, a staunch advocate of Lakin's methods, to speak to my class on personal marketing. The session underscored two pivotal lessons: using the mantra "What's the best use of my time right now?" and maintaining an efficient inbox by promptly dealing with or discarding emails. I share my approach to managing emails through a folder system, prioritizing crucial messages while keeping distractions at bay. Emphasizing the importance of organization, I discuss how I keep my inbox clutter-free and stress the value of preserving data by never deleting emails, allowing for easy retrieval when necessary. (21:13) Navigating LinkedIn and Building Relationships This chapter explores the approach of using LinkedIn as a tool for genuine networking rather than focusing on metrics like impressions and reach. I discuss the importance of building a meaningful inner circle and the value of connecting with mentors and individuals who can provide guidance and insights. The conversation emphasizes the power of offering value to others, even for free, to create authentic relationships that lead to recommendations and opportunities. I share the realization of LinkedIn being an echo chamber, encouraging the pursuit of third-degree connections to...

    34 min

  3. 3 DIC

    Episode #24 The #1 Business Mistake You’re Probably Making (And How to Fix It) with Tom Wells

    In this episode of The Queen of Automation, host Meghan Donnelly chats with Tom Wells, founder of Wells Virtual Bookkeeping, to uncover why accurate bookkeeping is the backbone of every successful business—especially for small, service-based entrepreneurs. Tom shares his journey of growing up in a family business and how it inspired his passion for helping business owners simplify their finances. Together, Meghan and Tom explore: The power of outsourcing bookkeeping: Why delegating tasks like bank reconciliation, accounts payable/receivable, and payroll can save you time, money, and stress.Understanding your financial metrics: How having clear insights into your finances helps avoid common pitfalls and ensures long-term stability.Flexible pricing for small businesses: Tom's innovative transaction-based pricing model that aligns services with client needs.The role of technology in financial success: Practical tips for leveraging tech to address pain points and streamline your operations. This conversation is packed with actionable insights for entrepreneurs ready to make smarter financial decisions and embrace technology to drive growth. CHAPTERS WITH LONG SUMMARIES  (00:00) Importance of Bookkeeping in Business This chapter brings an engaging discussion with Tom Wells from Wells Virtual Bookkeeping, highlighting the crucial role of knowing your numbers in business success. We explore the significance of accurate bookkeeping for small business owners and how outsourcing this task can alleviate common financial missteps. Tom introduces his family-run business, emphasizing their passion for assisting service-based companies across the U.S. We also discuss the importance of having a reliable team to ensure financial stability and planning, regardless of a business owner's exit strategy. Throughout, I emphasize that understanding financial metrics is essential for avoiding the entrepreneurial equivalent of living paycheck to paycheck, and how partnering with a skilled bookkeeping service like Tom's can help achieve this. (10:44) Benefits of Outsourcing Bookkeeping Services This chapter explores the importance of maintaining current financial information in business, comparing it to the ease of completing a puzzle with only a few missing pieces. We emphasize that staying updated is not only efficient but also cost-effective, as outdated data can lead to financial inefficiencies and inaccurate tax information. The distinction between bookkeeping and tax law is highlighted, stressing the value of hiring specialists for each area to maximize returns and ensure compliance. We discuss the advantages of outsourcing bookkeeping services, such as gaining access to comprehensive services like bank reconciliation, AP/AR management, and payroll at a fractional cost. The importance of communication with clients is underscored, noting the necessity for regular interaction to maintain financial accuracy. We also explain the unique pricing model based on transaction volume, which adjusts every 90 days to reflect the client's current needs. (23:53) Technology Solutions for Business Success This chapter explores our process of understanding your business by getting to know you and identifying your pain points to provide effective solutions. Megan and I discuss how our approach is centered around making technology work for you, emphasizing the importance of technology functioning properly to be beneficial. We also remind our listeners that additional information, including links to our LinkedIn profiles, will be available in the show notes for easy access. We conclude with a note of appreciation and a reminder to join us next week as we continue to help make technology work for...

    24 min

  4. 26 NOV

    Episode #23 Mindset > Tech: The Surprising Truth Behind Successful Operations with Alana Tart

    Join me on the Queen of Automation podcast as I sit down with the remarkable Alana Tart, an executive coach and mindfulness teacher, who shares her transformative journey from the high-pressure world of big law to a life that truly resonates with her core values.  Broadcasting from the scenic landscapes of Switzerland, Alana discusses her dual career path, blending her legal expertise with her passion for coaching. She offers insights into what it means to be a coach, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness and self-awareness in fostering unshakable confidence. Through the compelling story of a client’s transformation, Alana illustrates the profound impact coaching can have on one’s outlook on life. Together, we question traditional concepts of work-life balance, advocating for a more integrated approach to life that honors personal and professional fulfillment as a cohesive whole. In another engaging segment, we explore the interconnectedness of mindset, mindfulness, and growth mindset, shedding light on how these elements can enhance both personal well-being and business efficiency. It's not just about automating or delegating tasks; it's about a mindset shift that begins with self-awareness and mindfulness. I share my experiences teaching mindfulness to my teenage children, highlighting the importance of self-control and non-judgmental awareness. This holistic approach to mindfulness incorporates compassion and gratitude, enriching the practice of executive coaching by promoting self-compassion and a balanced perspective. Listen in as we uncover how these principles can simplify life and business, ultimately leading to more harmonious and productive living. Catch up with Alana on LinkedIn to learn more about how she helps dedicated professionals reclaim their power and rebuild a solid foundation when life feels like it's slipping away.  CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS (00:00) Balancing Life and Work Perspectives (10:36) Mindset, Mindfulness, and Growth Mindset CHAPTERS WITH LONG SUMMARIES  ​​(00:00) Balancing Life and Work Perspectives This chapter of the Queen of Automation podcast takes a refreshing turn as I chat with Alana Tart, an executive coach and mindfulness teacher, about her journey from being a big law professional to living a life that aligns with her values. Calling in from Switzerland, Alana shares how her experiences led her to a fulfilling dual career path as both a lawyer and a coach. We explore what it means to be a coach, focusing on helping clients become unshakable through mindfulness and self-awareness. Alana recounts the inspiring story of a client who transformed his outlook on life, highlighting the impact of coaching. We also touch on the concept of work-life balance, questioning traditional notions and considering life as an integrated whole rather than segmented into work and personal time. (10:36) Mindset, Mindfulness, and Growth Mindset This chapter focuses on the interconnectedness of systems, technology, and mindset, emphasizing the importance of automating, delegating, or eliminating tasks to enhance both business efficiency and personal well-being. We explore how these concepts, often perceived as separate, are deeply linked through mindfulness and self-awareness. It's highlighted that simplifying life and business doesn't necessarily mean relying on technology, but rather starts with a mindset shift. I share personal experiences of teaching mindfulness to my teenage children, stressing the significance of self-control and the ability to observe one's thoughts and emotions without judgment. The discussion underscores the holistic approach to mindfulness, integrating attitudes such as compassion and gratitude, and how these principles can enhance...

    24 min

  5. 19 NOV

    Episode #22 Corporate Skills That Fuel Entrepreneurial Success with Anthony Lobosco

    Come hang out with me as I chat with Anthony Lobosco, the brilliant mind behind Lobo IT Consulting. Anthony takes us on a journey through his impressive tech career, sharing stories from his time at industry giants like Cisco and Lumen. We talk about what it really takes to connect technology partners with buyers, crafting solutions in AI, customer experience, and security. Anthony's advice is packed with wisdom about building relationships and recommending the right tech solutions. Plus, we dive into how corporate experience can be a springboard for anyone dreaming of starting their own business one day. Our conversation also gets personal as we explore the importance of blending work and life in a way that feels natural. I share a bit about my time at Asysco and how seeing different sides of a corporation taught me so much. Together, we challenge the old-school work-life balance idea, arguing for a lifestyle where you decide when to hustle and when to unwind. Automation comes up as a game-changer here, helping us design careers that fit our lives—not the other way around. Finally, we dig into the ever-present challenge of staying efficient while managing digital clutter. From automating, delegating, and cutting out unnecessary tasks to switching from Evernote to Notion, we cover strategies for staying organized in the digital world. We even touch on ways to manage time-suckers like LinkedIn and explore tools for streamlining projects. Oh, and I have a little invite for you—join us in the Brand Built Community for tech tutorials where we share even more tips to thrive in this fast-paced digital age! Catch up with Anthony Lobosco on LinkedIn to see what he’s up to and in Lobo IT if you need help making smarter and more strategic technology decisions.  CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS (00:00) Building Technology Solutions Through Experience (06:40) Navigating Technology Careers and Work-Life Balance (13:17) Maximizing Efficiency and Automation (21:22) Navigating Digital Organizational Tools CHAPTERS WITH LONG SUMMARIES  ​​(00:00) Building Technology Solutions Through Experience This chapter of the Queen of Automation podcast features a conversation with Anthony Lovasco, founder of Lobo IT Consulting. We explore how Anthony brings technology partners and buyers together to solve challenges related to AI, customer experience, and security. I share my admiration for Anthony's work in IT consulting and discuss the importance of building relationships to effectively recommend technology solutions. Anthony recounts his career journey, highlighting his experience at major companies like Cisco and Lumen, which provided him with invaluable industry knowledge. We both emphasize the benefits of gaining experience in a corporate setting, especially for younger individuals entering the tech industry, as it allows access to advanced technology and builds a strong foundation for future entrepreneurial endeavors. (06:40) Navigating Technology Careers and Work-Life Balance This chapter focuses on the importance of blending real-world experience with guidance from industry veterans in the technology sector. We explore the immense value of working in large corporations, where exposure to various departments enriches one's knowledge and skills. I share personal experiences of how my journey in technology, including a significant stint at Asysco, has been a learning curve that feeds into my passion. We also discuss the idea of work-life balance, emphasizing the belief that life should not be compartmentalized into personal and work categories. Instead, the aim should be to build a lifestyle that integrates both...

    30 min

  6. 29 OCT

    Episode #21 Beyond the Nine-to-Five: Kendra Pennington’s Blueprint for Modern Mom

    Picture juggling a high-stakes career while managing the endless tasks of motherhood—sound familiar? That’s the reality for many working moms, and Kendra Pennington knows it all too well. As the CEO and founder of Beyond the Ninth, Kendra shares her journey of transforming personal struggles into a supportive haven for mothers everywhere. From navigating awkward interview questions to handling toxic management, she sheds light on the hidden challenges of balancing professional and personal life. This episode reveals the pressing need for employers to offer flexibility and understanding to parents striving to harmonize work and home responsibilities. We challenge the rigid norms of corporate culture with a fresh take on work-life balance, particularly in the realm of remote work. Productivity isn’t about clocking in an arbitrary eight hours; it’s about the quality and timeliness of what you achieve. With techniques like the Pomodoro method, we explore how short, focused work intervals can boost efficiency. It's a call for organizations to see employees as humans with dynamic needs, especially in at-will employment states where job security is precarious. Working mothers often face unique hurdles, and there's an urgent need for workplaces to evolve and offer genuine support. Managing a community is no small feat, and Kendra shares her insights on creating a positive, focused environment for working moms in the Beyond the Ninth app. This isn’t about the vast, often overwhelming landscape of traditional social media—it's about crafting a space that offers authentic connection and understanding. We delve into the intricacies of managing community expectations and maintaining personal balance while leading with love and support. Discover why having a dedicated platform is vital for mothers seeking connection free from the noise and judgment of the online world, and how these spaces can provide the encouragement they need most. Catch up with Kendra Pennington on LinkedIn to see what she’s creating with Beyond the Ninth.

    43 min

  7. 8 OCT

    Episode #20 Cracking the Code: How Emotion and Technology Fuel Entrepreneurial Success

    Growing up on stage in the world of musical theater, I learned more than just how to sing and dance. Those early days, playing roles like Annie and taking on Shakespearean characters, taught me the art of emotional connection—a skill that has profoundly influenced my journey as an entrepreneur. Join me, Megan Donnelly, as I explore how the lessons of theater have shaped my approach to creating unforgettable user and customer experiences. By marrying creativity with technology, I've discovered the secret to crafting business systems that don't just work but resonate deeply with audiences, leaving them moved and satisfied—just like a stellar performance. This episode invites you to see your brand, products, and services through the lens of a theatrical performance, where the real magic lies in the emotional impact on your audience. We discuss the power of storytelling and humor in creating memorable experiences and highlight the pivotal role that emotions play in the world of branding. By focusing on the feelings you want your audience to carry with them and the stories they’ll share, you can elevate your brand to new heights. Tune in to reflect on how your past experiences can shape your future success, both on stage and in the business world. CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS (00:00) The Power of Emotional Connection (11:53) Creating Emotional Resonance Through Branding CHAPTERS WITH LONG SUMMARIES  (00:00) The Power of Emotional Connection This chapter explores how my background in musical theater and performing arts has uniquely shaped my abilities as an entrepreneur, particularly in enhancing user and customer experiences. Growing up on stage, from playing roles like Annie and Shakespearean characters to performing in jazz bands, taught me the importance of connecting with an audience and tapping into their emotions. This artistic journey honed my skills in understanding and prioritizing customer satisfaction, similar to how a performer seeks to leave their audience moved and happy. I share how using both the analytical and creative sides of my brain has allowed me to bridge the gap between creativity and technology, making me a "unicorn" in the business world. Through storytelling and humor, I emphasize the importance of crafting experiences that resonate, whether on stage or in the world of automation and business systems. (11:53) Creating Emotional Resonance Through Branding This chapter focuses on the concept of viewing your brand, products, and services as a show, emphasizing the importance of the emotional experience you create for your audience. I explore how crucial it is to consider what feelings you want your audience to have after engaging with your brand and what stories you want them to share with others. By identifying the emotions you aim to evoke, you can craft a memorable experience that resonates with your audience. The episode wraps up with a reminder that technology is only beneficial when it functions properly, and an invitation to join us next week for more insights.

    13 min

  8. 24 SEPT

    Episode #19 Mastering LinkedIn Content: Insights from Supergrow's Journey with Utsav Patel

    Unlock the secrets to skyrocketing your LinkedIn engagement with our special guest, Utsav Patel, co-founder and CMO of Supergrow. You'll hear the riveting story of how Elon Musk's unexpected acquisition of Twitter led to a seismic shift in Utsav and his co-founder Devin's entrepreneurial journey, compelling them to create Supergrow. This episode is packed with invaluable lessons on adapting to sudden market changes and transforming challenges into groundbreaking opportunities. Dive into the burgeoning LinkedIn creator economy and discover why it's poised for an explosive future akin to Instagram and TikTok. We unpack Supergrow's commitment to compliance with LinkedIn's terms of service, demonstrating how maintaining this balance not only safeguards user accounts but also promotes a sustainable and thriving ecosystem for content creators. Learn how Supergrow navigates these complexities to provide a robust tool that aligns with LinkedIn's rules, ensuring your content strategy remains unscathed. From crafting high-quality posts with AI formatting to overcoming creative blocks with an inspiration feed, Supergrow is a game-changer for content creators. Hear firsthand about the new scheduling feature that automates previously tedious tasks, making your LinkedIn presence more strategic and less time-consuming. We also touch on the work-life balance challenges faced in the startup world and share strategies that have helped the Supergrow team maintain equilibrium. Join us for an inspiring discussion that reaffirms Supergrow's status as an indispensable tool for anyone serious about LinkedIn content creation. CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS (00:00) Building Supergrow (11:19) Navigating LinkedIn Compliance and Building Supergrow (21:07) Maximizing Content Creation With Supergrow (32:13) Balancing Work and Future Features CHAPTERS WITH LONG SUMMARIES (00:00) Building Supergrow This chapter focuses on an engaging discussion with Utsav, co-founder and CMO of Supergrow, an innovative AI tool designed to enhance LinkedIn content formatting for better engagement. We explore Utsav's journey, including the challenges faced when Elon Musk's acquisition of Twitter led to a sudden price hike in the Twitter API, forcing Utsav and his co-founder Devin to pivot from their initial projects. The conversation highlights the importance of adapting to unforeseen circumstances and finding new opportunities, ultimately leading to the creation of Supergrow. We discuss how Supergrow simplifies the process of crafting effective LinkedIn posts by focusing on formatting techniques used by top creators, making it easier for users to grow their followers and boost engagement. (11:19) Navigating LinkedIn Compliance and Building Supergrow This chapter explores the growing concerns and excitement around LinkedIn's creator economy and its future. We discuss the platform's current state and speculate on whether LinkedIn will face an implosion or continue to thrive. Emphasizing LinkedIn's bullish stance on creators, we predict an explosion of content creation similar to what platforms like Instagram and TikTok have experienced. Additionally, we delve into the challenges of maintaining compliance with LinkedIn's terms of service, highlighting the rigorous measures taken to ensure that our software remains within permissible boundaries. By prioritizing adherence to LinkedIn's rules, we aim to safeguard user accounts and foster a sustainable ecosystem for content creators. (21:07) Maximizing Content Creation With Supergrow This chapter highlights the remarkable capabilities of Supergrow, a powerful tool designed to aid creators, entrepreneurs, and business owners in generating high-quality content efficiently. We explore how Supergrow assists users in crafting posts, formatting them with AI, and utilizing various templates, including custom and popular

    43 min
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Optimize your business operations. Tune in to hear how we help founders & business owners build simple, streamlined systems & digital experience operations that scale.

Información

  • Creador
    Meghan Donnelly
  • Años de actividad
    2 k
  • Episodios
    26
  • Clasificación
    Explícito
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2024 Meghan Donnelly
  • Mostrar sitio web
    The Queen of Automation

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