The Thoughtful Entrepreneur Josh Elledge of UpMyInfluence.com

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the CEO and Founder of Mosaic Media Films, Mark Wonderlin.
Mark Wonderlin, founder and CEO of Mosaic Media Films, delves into the transformative power of video in communication and marketing. He shares insights and practical advice on leveraging video as a vital component of any communication strategy. Mark emphasized that video is not merely a tool but a critical element, combining visual and auditory stimuli to create an engaging experience that traditional media cannot match.
Mosaic Media Films specializes in producing branded video content that resonates with viewers on a personal level. Mark discussed their focus on crafting narratives that tell compelling stories through brand story videos, business promos, and customer case studies, each designed to integrate seamlessly into a client's marketing funnel and directly address their audience.
Mark also covered the technical aspects of improving video content quality. He detailed the key components that contribute to a video's success, emphasizing that it's not only about high-quality visuals and captivating animation but also about how these elements are integrated to tell a story effectively.
Key Points from the Episode:Power of video in communication and marketingElements of great video contentTips for improving video qualityImportance of video in capturing attentionMosaic Media Films' specialization in branded video contentCreating brand story videos, business promos, and customer case study storiesElements of great video: animation, visuals, storytellingTips for recording webinars or classesIdeal clients for Mosaic Media FilmsCost of video production and resources available on their website
About Mark Wonderlin:Mark Wonderlin is the CEO and Founder of Mosaic Media Films, a company dedicated to transforming how businesses communicate their value through professional video content. Mark has applied his artistic talent and marketing expertise to produce engaging videos that convert viewers into buyers. His approach is not just about visual appeal; it’s about making sure that each video clearly explains what a business does, helping them reach a wider audience effectively.
A unique aspect of Mark’s leadership is his philosophy, often referred to as “Markisms,” which deeply influences his team’s creative process. One significant “markism” is the immersive approach to storytelling. Mark insists that to create a compelling story, one must empathetically connect with the subject, understanding their thoughts, feelings, and pains as if they were their own. This empathetic approach aims to resonate deeply with the audience, making each project not just a presentation but a meaningful experience that positively impacts viewers.
About Mosaic Media Films:Mosaic Media Films stands out in the competitive landscape of video production by focusing on the power of storytelling to convert viewers into loyal customers. Based in Austin, the company skillfully blends the art of video production with marketing acumen to create visually stunning and strategically effective videos. Their work is not just about aesthetics; it’s about crafting content that builds connections and drives sales conversions by resonating deeply with viewers and directly addressing their needs and challenges.
As the highest-rated video production company in Austin, Mosaic Media Films prides itself on delivering quality, speed, and competitive pricing all at once. With a reputation for three times as many five-star Google reviews as its nearest competitors, the company ensures

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the CEO of Next Level Coaching, Kyle Mealy.
Kyle Mealy, CEO of Next Level, discussed the transformative role of a fractional Chief Revenue Officer (CRO) in the B2B and small business sectors. Kyle specializes in blending marketing and sales with a profit-oriented approach. He focuses on enhancing margins and collaborates closely with CFOs to ensure profitability.
 His primary attention is on companies that rely on monthly recurring revenue or high-ticket projects, especially within the professional services sector, which often involves technical or complex products. Kyle observed that companies generating under $10 million in revenue usually cannot afford a full-time marketing or sales executive. Using his extensive experience, he developed a proven formula for driving new revenue for these businesses.
Kyle highlighted the underutilized potential of LinkedIn and SEO for generating targeted B2B traffic. He also introduced the concept of a revenue strategy statement, a guiding principle that aligns all sales and marketing decisions with the company’s specific revenue objectives and unique market stance.
Key Points from the Episode:Kyle's role as a fractional chief revenue officer (CRO)Specialization in working with companies in the monthly recurring revenue or high-ticket project spaceDifferences between B2B and B2C marketingEffective tactics for B2B marketing, including LinkedIn and SEORevenue strategy statement and its importanceKyle's role as a change agent within organizationsSigns indicating the readiness for a fractional leaderCost-effective option for small businessesCase study and upcoming book by Kyle Mealey
About Kyle Mealy:Kyle Mealy is a distinguished leader, educator, and motivational speaker who thrives on harnessing the latent potential within entrepreneurial ventures and their leadership. He excels in transforming businesses and individuals, facilitating breakthroughs to elevate them to their next level of success. His dynamic approach and energetic focus consistently yield significant improvements in performance and growth for the businesses he engages with.
His approachable teaching style and adept public speaking skills enable him to captivate large audiences, making complex concepts feel intimate and relatable. Kyle's passion is evident in his impactful delivery and the practical content he shares, derived from his extensive experience in coaching and executive leadership. Under his guidance, entrepreneurs he has coached have seen their profits soar up to tenfold, with businesses averaging a 35% annual increase in top-line revenue growth. His methods inspire and deliver tangible results, making him a sought-after figure in business development.
About Next Level Coaching:Next Level Coaching offers transformative business solutions through its Fractional Chief Revenue Officer (CRO) service, tailored specifically for small businesses with revenues between $1 million and $10 million. This service is designed to overcome plateaus in profit and growth, particularly in client service and recurring revenue models. By deploying the Next Level Revenue Model, the team at Next Level Coaching helps businesses implement scalable systems for marketing and sales, driven by data-informed decision-making and a focus on profitable revenue growth.
Under Kyle Mealy's guidance, Next Level Coaching guarantees not just improvement but a doubling of top-line revenue within three years or less. The approach focuses on increasing the predictability and valuation of client businesses. For...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the CEO of Hour Of Champions LLC, Steve Werner.
Steve Werner is the innovative force behind Hour of Champions, an initiative crafted to support high achievers in overcoming barriers and reinventing themselves. With a commitment to holistic development, Steve's approach integrates the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of transformation, promoting a significant shift in personal paradigms to access levels of previously unattainable success.
Hour of Champions transcends the typical program format, representing a broader philosophy that underscores the critical importance of self-investment. Steve is particularly vocal about the necessity of self-care and ongoing personal development, especially for seasoned professionals who may have reached a career plateau. His methods are carefully designed to enable individuals to capitalize on their accumulated wisdom and experiences, turning these into valuable economic assets.
Steve discussed the concept of viewing challenges not as insurmountable obstacles but as opportunities for substantial personal growth and reinvention. Hour of Champions is a platform where he shares numerous stories of individuals who, by embracing significant changes and confronting their limitations, have realized success far beyond what they had imagined possible. This perspective shift is fundamental to the program, encouraging participants to see potential where they once saw barriers and fostering an environment of continuous personal and professional transformation.
Key Points from the Episode:Helping high achievers break through to the next level of successShifting paradigms and personal developmentPhysical, mental, and spiritual growthMonetizing wisdom, especially for those at later stages of their careersEmbracing challenges and making major changesInviting listeners to connect through website and Facebook community
About Steve Werner:Steve Werner, a seasoned former independent commodities trader at the Chicago Board of Trade, leveraged his experience in disciplined decision-making to launch a successful real estate finance and entrepreneurship career. After his trading career, he established Smith Rothchild Financial in Chicago, significantly impacting the local real estate market by facilitating over $500 million in funding, significantly contributing to affordable housing development. Additionally, he co-founded D.A.W.G.S., specializing in security solutions for vacant properties.
Steve founded Hour of Champions Coaching, focusing on personal and professional development. Through his coaching, Steve excels in helping individuals uncover their inner physical and spiritual strengths, encouraging them to stay active, motivated, and resilient in the face of challenges. Hour of Champions Coaching promotes a philosophy that emphasizes self-belief and perseverance, aiming to empower clients to lead and inspire others regardless of age and find deep satisfaction in continuous personal achievement. This coaching service is positioned as a crucial investment in personal growth, helping clients discover and harness strengths they never knew they possessed.
About Hour of Champions Coaching:Hour of Champions Coaching offers transformative coaching services designed to empower individuals in the latter stages of their careers to capitalize on their accumulated wisdom and experience. This program encourages participants to recognize and harness their inherent talents and skills as tools for success, ensuring they enter the second act of their careers with confidence and a clear vision. The coaching...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Founder and CEO of Interleap, Leslie Galloway.
Leslie’s journey as the founder and CEO of Interleap Group mirrors the experiences of many in the startup and business development sectors. The formation of Interleap Group represented a significant shift, focusing on addressing real-world issues with innovative solutions. Leslie covered the necessity of maintaining agility in a swiftly evolving market and Interleap’s methods for staying competitive.
 Leslie’s approach to business growth combines systematic planning with creativity, a blend entrepreneurs often seek. She delved into the essential function of effective leadership in expanding a business. Leslie provided examples of how to cultivate a culture of innovation and accountability within a team. 
Leslie also recounted the company’s origins, highlighting the achievements and the obstacles encountered that have defined its path. The discussion included strategies to navigate these obstacles and the mindset required to adapt to change. Leslie’s resilience and adaptability stand as lessons for all entrepreneurs.
Key Points from the Episode:Strategies for successful entrepreneurshipImportance of thoughtful and intentional business practicesNavigating challenges and obstacles in businessBuilding a successful business from the ground upLeveraging technology and innovation for business growth
About Leslie Galloway:Leslie Galloway is the visionary Founder and CEO of Interleap, a company she started to revolutionize how leaders approach the development of their teams and staff. With a profound belief in the power of influential people strategy to balance workplace dynamics and enhance profitability, Leslie's inspiration stemmed from observing successful leaders who prioritized interpersonal skills in business. Her professional journey includes a comprehensive background in leadership roles within the branding industry and partnership at Capacity7, where she honed her expertise in organizational design and leadership programs.
Holding a B.A. in Psychology from the University of North Carolina, a CCIM Coaching designation and various certifications in personality and behavioral assessments, Leslie has built a reputation for turning around projects and boosting team dynamics. Her unique approach combines leadership experience with emotional intelligence, enabling her to effectively foster trust, navigate challenging conversations, and drive leadership transformation. Leslie is deeply committed to personal growth and community service, leading educational sessions for women and serving as a Starting Point Leader at Buckhead Church. Leslie enjoys tennis, workouts, and walks with friends and family, residing in Brookhaven with her husband, Woody, their daughter, Grace, and their golden retriever, Winnie.
About Interleap:Interleap is a transformative platform for leaders and teams, focusing on personal development and organizational growth through strategic coaching and collaboration. The company provides a unique framework designed to guide leaders on their journeys, offering tools and support to navigate the complexities of modern leadership roles. As the nature of the workplace evolves, Interleap emphasizes the necessity of clarity, guidance, and collaboration to achieve desired outcomes, ensuring leaders are not isolated but supported throughout their careers.
Their philosophy emphasizes that effective leadership is founded on strong, healthy relationships, which are more crucial than traditional business strategies. This approach challenges and changes traditional leadership...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to a Psychotherapist and Coach for solo and small business owners, Steve McCready.

Steve McCready is a former psychotherapist and marriage and family therapist who has transitioned to coaching, leveraging his extensive background in mental health. Through his website, stevemccready.com, he offers guidance to individuals navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship.

His coaching emphasizes mental wellness, recognizing the high stress and potential for burnout in the entrepreneurial journey. Steve provides practical strategies for managing stress, preventing burnout, and maintaining a positive mental environment, focusing on helping entrepreneurs thrive amidst the challenges.
Key Points from the Episode:

Steve McCready's transition from psychotherapy to coaching
Insights and expertise on coaching and mental wellness for entrepreneurs
The impact of mental wellness on entrepreneurship
Strategies for entrepreneurs to maintain mental wellness
The role of coaching in supporting entrepreneurs
The challenges and opportunities in coaching for entrepreneurs
The importance of mental wellness for business success


About Steve McCready:
Steve McCready leverages his extensive background in psychotherapy and his profound understanding of the human brain to offer specialized coaching for small business owners. With over two decades of experience helping individuals learn, grow, and enhance their performance, he focuses on empowering entrepreneurs to use their businesses as tools for positive impact. His approach is tailored to boost their focus, productivity, and confidence, enabling them to become exemplary leaders in their respective fields.

Steve aims to transform business owners into exceptional performers, adept at overcoming mental and emotional hurdles that may impede their success. He provides insightful guidance to help them navigate challenges, avoid common pitfalls, and achieve their ambitious goals. Steve's method is particularly effective for those looking to make significant changes or undertake major projects they've previously struggled to accomplish. His support helps clients break through personal barriers and realize their full potential, making what once seemed unattainable a tangible reality.
Coaching Services:
Steve McCready leverages his extensive background in psychotherapy and his profound understanding of the human brain to offer specialized coaching for small business owners. With over two decades of experience helping individuals learn, grow, and enhance their performance, he focuses on empowering entrepreneurs to use their businesses as tools for positive impact. His approach is tailored to boost their focus, productivity, and confidence, enabling them to become exemplary leaders in their respective fields.

Steve aims to transform business owners into exceptional performers, adept at overcoming mental and emotional hurdles that may impede their success. He provides insightful guidance to help them navigate challenges, avoid common pitfalls, and achieve their ambitious goals. Steve's method is particularly effective for those looking to make significant changes or undertake major projects they've previously struggled to accomplish. His support helps clients break through personal barriers and realize their full potential, making what once seemed unattainable a tangible reality.
Tweetable Moments:
02:20 - "I know I can help other people become more empowered and bigger, stronger, better versions of themselves, and that's how I'm trying to do my part to help things move forward in the world."
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Want to learn more? Check out Steve

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the COO of Duct Tape Marketing, Sara Nay.
Sara's expertise in marketing strategies for small businesses is unparalleled, offering valuable insights crucial for entrepreneurs.
She emphasizes the importance of establishing a solid marketing strategy before implementing any tactics. Small businesses often need a clear plan to dive into marketing, resulting in wasted resources and poor outcomes. Sara advises laying a solid strategic foundation to guide marketing tactics and align them with business goals.
Sara highlights the evolving nature of marketing, especially with the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) tools. These tools are transforming productivity and content creation. She underscores the importance of research and planning in developing thought leadership content and leveraging AI to repurpose this content across various platforms, maximizing reach and engagement.
Sara stresses the significance of continuous lead generation for sustained business growth. Without a consistent flow of quality leads, even the best marketing strategies can falter. She recommends creating a system that consistently attracts and nurtures potential customers, turning them into loyal brand advocates.
Key Points from the Episode:Services offered by Duct Tape MarketingImportance of strategy before tactics in marketingEvolving landscape of marketing with AI integrationAdvantages of working with a fractional CMO certified through Duct Tape MarketingPotential pitfalls for small businesses in marketing without a clear planContinuous focus on lead generation for sustained business growthIncorporation of AI tools to enhance productivity and content creationTwo sides of Duct Tape Marketing's business: catering to small businesses and marketing professionalsValuable resources available on the Duct Tape Marketing website for business owners and marketing professionals
About Sara Nay:Sara Nay serves as the Chief Operating Officer at Duct Tape Marketing, where she has been instrumental since starting as an intern in December 2010. Over her 13+ years in the small business arena, Sara has held multiple roles within the company, progressing from community manager to account manager, consultant, salesperson, and now to operations. This breadth of experience underpins her expertise in systematically enhancing marketing and operational processes, ensuring that small business owners gain clarity and control to foster growth.
Sara co-founded Spark Lab Consulting in 2021 to address operational challenges faced by small businesses after initial marketing successes. The consultancy aims to streamline operations and scalability, complementing the marketing solutions provided by Duct Tape Marketing. Outside of her career, Sara is deeply committed to an active outdoor lifestyle in Boise, Idaho, where she enjoys skiing, biking, and hiking with her husband and two daughters. Her leadership and strategic acumen are further evidenced by her top strengths: Achiever, Focus, Individualization, Strategic, and Futuristic.
About Duct Tape Marketing:Duct Tape Marketing specializes in serving small to medium-sized businesses and marketing agencies by offering a unique marketing system known as the Fractional CMO+ system. This system fosters growth through streamlined marketing operations and emphasizes sustainable, strategic marketing solutions that prevent businesses from falling into the trap of short-lived tactics. With over 30 years of experience, Duct Tape Marketing has proven its approach by implementing its strategies in thousands of...