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Melanie Sikma

💼 Helping entrepreneurs build freedom, not just businesses💡 Real talk. Practical tips. Big impact. 🎧 Listen in + learn how to be tax-smart, time-rich, and totally free📍Powered by One Stop Tax Strategists

  1. 2d ago

    The Leadership Systems Every Growing Business Needs

    What if the ultimate measure of business success isn't revenue, but peace? Jennifer Kolde shares how she helped grow Minnesota Home Guys from a startup into a company buying over 1,000 homes by building systems, hiring intentionally, and creating an operations engine that allowed the business to thrive without constant chaos. This conversation explores leadership, onboarding, hiring, communication, company culture, faith, and the practical steps every entrepreneur can take to build a business that creates more freedom instead of more stress.  Key Takeaways  Why hiring the wrong person often creates more work instead of lessMain difference between growing a business with chaos versus growing with clarityWhat operators wish every visionary entrepreneur understood about communicationOne onboarding strategy that helps new hires succeed fasterHow defining success as peace can completely change the way you lead your company Resources / Links Mentioned Investor FuelAsanaInvestorFuse CRM (now CarrotCRM)REI Sales AcademyJerry Green – REI Sales AcademyClaude AI About Jennifer Kolde Jennifer (Jen) Kolde is the Vice President of Operations & Franchising at Minnesota Home Guys and Home Guys USA, where she leads operations, compliance, and franchise development for the growing real estate investment company. With more than 20 years of experience in business operations, Jen has helped build the company’s operational infrastructure from the ground up, creating scalable systems that support both internal teams and franchise partners. Passionate about entrepreneurship and operational excellence, she specializes in simplifying complex processes, empowering business owners, and helping real estate investors build sustainable, system-driven businesses rooted in integrity and long-term growth.  Connect to Jennifer Website: Minnesota Home Guys | Home Guys Franchising Email: jen@homeguysusa.com  Connect with Us  Take control of your tax strategy and start keeping more of what you earn. Learn more at www.osts.tax and book your free tax assessment here: https://calendly.com/d/cv47-9dz-krm. Resources Curious how much you could be saving? Try the Tax Savings Self-Assessment tool here: https://shorturl.at/4RIc0.  Follow us on Social Media Facebook: Live More Show Page: Live More ShowPersonal Page: Melanie SikmaLinkedIn: Melanie SikmaInstagram: @melaniesikmaTikTok: @msikmaYouTube: Melanie Sikma

    The Leadership Systems Every Growing Business Needs
  2. 4d ago

    Building a Business That Changes Lives and Makes Money

    The most meaningful businesses often begin with a problem that's impossible to ignore. Nichole Daher shares how her daughter's autism diagnosis led her to create the first autism therapy franchise in the United States, proving that purpose and profit don't have to compete. This conversation explores building a mission-driven business, scaling through franchising, hiring the right people, protecting your time, and creating lasting impact by solving real problems that matter. Key Takeaways  How solving your own problem can uncover a scalable business opportunityWhy hiring too late may be the biggest obstacle to business growthMain difference between employees who follow directions and those who leadWhat makes a purpose-driven business both impactful and profitableOne mindset shift that helps entrepreneurs scale without sacrificing their families About Nichole Daher Nichole Daher is an autism advocate, educator, and founder of Success on the Spectrum, where she helps autistic individuals and their families access practical strategies, resources, and support for achieving greater independence and success. Drawing on both professional expertise and lived experience, Nichole empowers families, educators, and organizations with evidence-based approaches to autism, communication, executive functioning, and life skills. Through coaching, speaking, and educational programs, she is dedicated to creating more inclusive environments and helping neurodivergent individuals thrive at school, at work, and in everyday life. Connect to Nichole Website: Success On The Spectrum | SOS Franchising LinkedIn: Nichole Daher Connect with Us  Take control of your tax strategy and start keeping more of what you earn. Learn more at www.osts.tax and book your free tax assessment here: https://calendly.com/d/cv47-9dz-krm. Resources Curious how much you could be saving? Try the Tax Savings Self-Assessment tool here: https://shorturl.at/4RIc0.  Follow us on Social Media Facebook: Live More Show Page: Live More ShowPersonal Page: Melanie SikmaLinkedIn: Melanie SikmaInstagram: @melaniesikmaTikTok: @msikmaYouTube: Melanie Sikma

    Building a Business That Changes Lives and Makes Money
  3. Jul 23

    The Success Trap: When Your Business Looks Great but Feels Wrong

    What happens when you've built the successful business, earned the awards, and created the lifestyle you thought you wanted, but still feel disconnected from your own life? Dylan Bost shares how losing nearly everything forced him to rethink success, take ownership of his choices, and intentionally build a business around presence, family, and joy. This conversation explores alignment, small daily practices, delegation, financial resilience, and why creating space may be one of the most powerful strategies for building a business and life you actually want. Key Takeaways  Why small, consistent actions can create bigger change than major pushesMain difference between building a successful business and designing a successful lifeWhat founders must let go of before their business can truly run without themOne financial safeguard that can change how you make difficult business decisionsHow exhaustion and frustration may be signaling a deeper alignment problem Resources / Links Mentioned The 7 Mirrors — A Guide to Remembering Yourself The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz | Kindle, Paperback, and HardcoverSunny HQWalt Disney ImagineeringDisneyBePresent AppClaude CodeOpenClawChatGPTQigong About Dylan Bost Dylan Bost is an author, speaker, and guide who helps high-achieving people reconnect with themselves beyond the demands of work, responsibility, and constant performance. His work explores the often-overlooked experience of appearing successful on the outside while feeling disconnected from life at home and within. Through his Sit With It practice, Dylan encourages people to slow down, stay present with what they are experiencing, and rediscover the ability to fully participate in their own lives. His approach offers a grounded path for those who are thriving professionally but ready to move beyond simply coping personally and create a more present, connected way of living. Connect to Dylan Website: Dylan Bost | Sunny HQ Instagram: @dylanclaytonbost LinkedIn:  Dylan Clayton Bost  Connect with Us  Take control of your tax strategy and start keeping more of what you earn. Learn more at www.osts.tax and book your free tax assessment here: https://calendly.com/d/cv47-9dz-krm. Resources Curious how much you could be saving? Try the Tax Savings Self-Assessment tool here: https://shorturl.at/4RIc0.  Follow us on Social Media Facebook: Live More Show Page: Live More ShowPersonal Page: Melanie SikmaLinkedIn: Melanie SikmaInstagram: @melaniesikmaTikTok: @msikmaYouTube: Melanie Sikma

    The Success Trap: When Your Business Looks Great but Feels Wrong
  4. Jul 21

    Why Customer Retention May Be Your Most Underrated Growth Strategy

    Many entrepreneurs pour their energy into acquiring new customers while overlooking the growth already sitting inside their existing relationships. Customer journey architect Mark Stern shares how intentional onboarding, clear success metrics, meaningful physical experiences, and stronger retention strategies can increase lifetime value while helping customers feel genuinely seen and supported. This conversation also explores the power of focus, trusting your intuition, protecting your team, and why taking better care of yourself can unlock new levels of leadership and business growth.  Key Takeaways  How a clear customer success metric can transform the entire client journeyWhy your onboarding process may be quietly creating customer churnWhat most businesses overlook while spending heavily on customer acquisitionMain difference between meaningful customer experiences and expensive "swag"One relationship dynamic that could be costing you more time and energy than you realize Resources / Links Mentioned Never Lose a Customer Again by Joey Coleman | Kindle, Audiobook and HardcoverNever Lose An Employee Again by Joey Coleman | Kindle, Hardcover, and Audiobook Who Not How by Dan Sullivan with Dr. Benjamin Hardy | Paperback and Hardcover10x Is Easier than 2x by Dan Sullivan with Dr. Benjamin Hardy | Paperback and Hardcover Brooke CastilloTony RobbinsDeloitteBetter Business BureauGoogle SlidesMicrosoft PowerPointReplitLovableAbout Mark Stern Mark Stern is an entrepreneur, business strategist, and founder of Custom Box Agency, where he helps businesses transform the customer experience through thoughtfully designed physical products and custom box solutions. Drawing on his background in corporate consulting and entrepreneurship, Mark specializes in helping coaches, consultants, and service-based businesses turn their intellectual property into tangible experiences that increase engagement, implementation, and customer retention. Through Custom Box Agency, he combines strategy, design, and fulfillment to help brands create memorable experiences that deepen customer relationships and bring digital programs into the physical world. Connect to Mark Website: Custom Box AgencyPodcast: Dash Talks Live Connect with Us  Take control of your tax strategy and start keeping more of what you earn. Learn more at www.osts.tax and book your free tax assessment here: https://calendly.com/d/cv47-9dz-krm. Resources Curious how much you could be saving? Try the Tax Savings Self-Assessment tool here: https://shorturl.at/4RIc0.  Follow us on Social Media Facebook: Live More Show Page: Live More ShowPersonal Page: Melanie SikmaLinkedIn: Melanie SikmaInstagram: @melaniesikmaTikTok: @msikmaYouTube: Melanie Sikma

    Why Customer Retention May Be Your Most Underrated Growth Strategy
  5. Jul 16

    How to Build Recurring Revenue That Creates Financial Freedom

    Financial freedom isn't created by good intentions alone. Scott Curry shares how years of failure, relentless action, and a deep personal "why" helped him replace a six-figure income, build recurring revenue, and create the freedom to be fully present during life's hardest moments. This conversation explores residual income, entrepreneurship, faith, sales, and why lasting success comes from pairing belief with consistent action so you can build a life that truly matters.  Key Takeaways  How recurring revenue can create freedom beyond a bigger paycheckWhy your "why" matters more than your business planMain difference between preparing for success and actually building itOne mindset shift that turns setbacks into momentumFastest way to build confidence as an entrepreneur Resources / Links Mentioned UpworkFiverrChatGPTThe Power of Broke  by Daymond John | Paperback and HardcoverMerrill LynchMorgan Stanley Join the Faith Roar Community and connect with a supportive community of faith-driven believers. Use code PODCAST to get 50% OFF access to the Faith Roar Discord community at faithroarcommunity.com.  About Scott Curry Scott Curry is a faith-driven entrepreneur, business strategist, and founder of Faith Roar Community and We Profit Day and Night. He helps Christian entrepreneurs integrate biblical principles with practical business strategies to build profitable, purpose-driven companies that create lasting impact. Through coaching, teaching, and community leadership, Scott equips business owners to strengthen their faith, build sustainable wealth, and lead with integrity as they pursue both spiritual and financial growth. Connect to Scott Website: Faith Roar Discord Community | We Profit Day and Night LinkedIn: Scott CurryYouTube: We Profit with Stock Curry  Connect with Us  Take control of your tax strategy and start keeping more of what you earn. Learn more at www.osts.tax and book your free tax assessment here: https://calendly.com/d/cv47-9dz-krm. Resources Curious how much you could be saving? Try the Tax Savings Self-Assessment tool here: https://shorturl.at/4RIc0.  Follow us on Social Media Facebook: Live More Show Page: Live More ShowPersonal Page: Melanie SikmaLinkedIn: Melanie SikmaInstagram: @melaniesikmaTikTok: @msikmaYouTube: Melanie Sikma

    How to Build Recurring Revenue That Creates Financial Freedom
  6. Jul 14

    Why Your Best Business Growth Strategy Is Learning to Speak

    Public speaking isn't just a communication skill; it's one of the fastest ways to grow your business. Dr. Danny Brassell shares how entrepreneurs can use storytelling, intentional presentations, and authentic audience connection to build trust, generate clients, and create lasting business growth. From overcoming the fear of speaking to crafting stories that move people to action, this conversation reveals why every entrepreneur should treat communication as a business strategy, not just a soft skill. Key Takeaways  One of the most powerful client-generation tools in your businessIntentional storytelling: how to influence decisions without feeling manipulativeWhere authentic connection with your audience beginsHow to transform speaking from a fear into a competitive advantageUnderstanding your audience vs. perfecting your presentation Resources / Links Mentioned Free Story GuideJim RohnMonsters, Inc. (Disney)Rotary InternationalKiwanis InternationalLions Clubs InternationalToastmasters InternationalAbout Dr. Danny Brassell Dr. Danny Brassell is a keynote speaker, bestselling author, leadership coach, and internationally recognized reading advocate with nearly 30 years of experience in education and leadership development. A former inner-city teacher and tenured university professor, he has inspired audiences across four continents with his engaging presentations on communication, motivation, literacy, and leadership. Dr. Brassell has authored 16 books, founded TheREADINGHabit.com, and works with organizations, educators, and business leaders to develop stronger communicators, more effective leaders, and lifelong learners. Known as the "Jim Carrey with a Ph.D." for his energetic speaking style, he is passionate about helping people unlock their potential through the power of reading, learning, and purposeful leadership. Connect to Dr. Danny Website: Dr. Danny Brassell Facebook: Danny Brassell  Instagram: @realdannybrassell LinkedIn: Dr. Danny Brassell  Connect with Us  Take control of your tax strategy and start keeping more of what you earn. Learn more at www.osts.tax and book your free tax assessment here: https://calendly.com/d/cv47-9dz-krm. Resources Curious how much you could be saving? Try the Tax Savings Self-Assessment tool here: https://shorturl.at/4RIc0.  Follow us on Social Media Facebook: Live More Show Page: Live More ShowPersonal Page: Melanie SikmaLinkedIn: Melanie SikmaInstagram: @melaniesikmaTikTok: @msikmaYouTube: Melanie Sikma

    Why Your Best Business Growth Strategy Is Learning to Speak
  7. Jul 9

    The Blueprint for Building a Self-Managing Business

    Many entrepreneurs start a business for freedom, only to discover they've created a job they can't escape. Chris Garrison shares how burnout, failed leadership, and constant firefighting forced him to rethink the way he built his business. In this episode, he reveals the systems, leadership principles, and mindset shifts that helped him step out of the day-to-day, empower his team to think independently, and build businesses that create both financial freedom and a better life. Key Takeaways What extreme ownership looks like in business and leadershipWhy clear expectations create stronger teams and better performanceHow focusing on one opportunity can outperform chasing manyWhat separates entrepreneurs who scale from those who stay stuckReasons why investing in yourself produces the highest long-term return Resources / Links Mentioned Alex HormoziGrant CardoneSteve JobsChatGPT About Chris Garrison Chris Garrison is a real estate entrepreneur, investor, and founder of Blue Collar Millionaire, where he teaches practical, results-driven strategies for building wealth through real estate investing. Drawing from his own entrepreneurial journey, Chris specializes in helping everyday investors create financial freedom through creative deal structuring, acquisitions, and long-term wealth-building systems. Through coaching, speaking, and education, he empowers aspiring and experienced investors alike to take action, scale their businesses, and achieve lasting success without losing sight of the values and work ethic that define the blue-collar mindset. Connect to Chris Website: Leads4BlueCollar Facebook Group: Blue Collar Millionaire LinkedIn: Chris Garrison  Connect with Us  Take control of your tax strategy and start keeping more of what you earn. Learn more at www.osts.tax and book your free tax assessment here: https://calendly.com/d/cv47-9dz-krm. Resources Curious how much you could be saving? Try the Tax Savings Self-Assessment tool here: https://shorturl.at/4RIc0.  Follow us on Social Media Facebook: Live More Show Page: Live More ShowPersonal Page: Melanie SikmaLinkedIn: Melanie SikmaInstagram: @melaniesikmaTikTok: @msikmaYouTube: Melanie Sikma

    The Blueprint for Building a Self-Managing Business
  8. Jul 7

    Build a Business You Can Sell, Not One That Owns You

    Most entrepreneurs build themselves into their business without realizing they're also building a trap. Kevin Marron shares how shifting from doing everything himself to building systems, empowering people, and thinking like an owner rather than an operator transformed his company into one that private equity wanted to buy. This conversation explores delegation, recurring revenue, acquisitions, mentorship, and the mindset required to build a business that creates both wealth and freedom. Key Takeaways  How delegation transforms overwhelmed owners into strategic leadersWhat private equity looks for before acquiring a businessWhy recurring revenue dramatically increases enterprise valueMain difference between business owners and business builders2 factors that create the freedom entrepreneurs are chasing About Kevin Marron Kevin Marron is a business mentor, entrepreneur, and volunteer with SCORE, where he helps entrepreneurs and small business owners start, grow, and scale successful businesses. Drawing on decades of experience in business leadership, sales, marketing, and strategic planning, Kevin provides practical guidance on business development, financial management, and long-term growth. Through one-on-one mentoring, workshops, and educational programs, he is passionate about equipping entrepreneurs with the tools, confidence, and strategies needed to build resilient, sustainable businesses. Connect to Kevin Website: SCORE Facebook Group: Blue Collar Millionaire Connect with Us  Take control of your tax strategy and start keeping more of what you earn. Learn more at www.osts.tax and book your free tax assessment here: https://calendly.com/d/cv47-9dz-krm. Resources Curious how much you could be saving? Try the Tax Savings Self-Assessment tool here: https://shorturl.at/4RIc0.  Follow us on Social Media Facebook: Live More Show Page: Live More ShowPersonal Page: Melanie SikmaLinkedIn: Melanie SikmaInstagram: @melaniesikmaTikTok: @msikmaYouTube: Melanie Sikma

    Build a Business You Can Sell, Not One That Owns You
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💼 Helping entrepreneurs build freedom, not just businesses💡 Real talk. Practical tips. Big impact. 🎧 Listen in + learn how to be tax-smart, time-rich, and totally free📍Powered by One Stop Tax Strategists