Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom

Kim Miller - Hershon
  • 5.0 (4)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom: Where clichés come to retire and fresh thinking we inspire. Smart minds don’t think alike—and that’s the point. Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom takes you inside the messy, brilliant, and bold thought processes of high-achieving leaders, entrepreneurs, and out-of-the-box thinkers. We skip the clichés and spotlight the real talk: the strange decisions that worked, the brilliant ideas that bombed, and the thought patterns that defy the rulebook—but still lead to growth, impact, and the occasional mic drop. If you’re tired of surface-level advice and crave the kind of wisdom that makes you pause, laugh, and level up—this is your new favorite listen. Because let’s face it: playing it safe never built anything worth bragging about.

  1. Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom Podcast Episode Fifty Eight with Joel Miller

    14H AGO

    Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom Podcast Episode Fifty Eight with Joel Miller

    In this episode of Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom, Kim Miller-Hershon sits down with Joel Miller, co-founder of The Sky Floor, a boutique marketing agency he runs with his identical twin brother. Joel shares a refreshingly honest take on business growth, challenging the “scale or die” mindset that dominates today’s entrepreneurial world. While many chase rapid expansion, Joel and his brother have intentionally built a profitable, $500K+ agency with just two people—proving that success doesn’t have to follow a traditional path. The conversation dives deep into redefining success, pricing your value with confidence, and why hourly billing might be one of the biggest mistakes service-based businesses make. Joel also opens up about imposter syndrome, even after years of success, and the mental frameworks he uses to push through it. From rejecting generic business advice like “niching down” to treating marketing like long-term investing, this episode is packed with practical insights and powerful mindset shifts for entrepreneurs who want to build a business on their own terms. We explore: Why “scale or die” isn’t the only path to success The problem with hourly billing—and what to do instead How to confidently price your services (even when doubt creeps in) Why success looks different for everyone—and how to define it for yourself The truth about imposter syndrome (at every level) Why you don’t have to niche down to grow a successful business Joel’s perspective is a powerful reminder that you don’t have to follow the crowd to succeed. You can build something profitable, sustainable, and aligned—without burnout, without unnecessary complexity, and without sacrificing what matters most. Connect with me here: Website: https://www.kimmillerhershon.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kmillerhershon Newsletter: https://link.kimmillerhershon.com/widget/form/aEdmdA1W5MhoMCMfy5O8 webinar: https://webinar.kimmillerhershon.com?utm_source=unconventional+wisdom+episode+58&utm_medium=podcast Guest Details: Website: https://www.theskyfloor.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelelliottmiller/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    43 min
  2. Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom Podcast Episode Fifty Seven with Matt Levenhagen

    3D AGO

    Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom Podcast Episode Fifty Seven with Matt Levenhagen

    In this episode of Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom, Kim Miller-Hershon sits down with Matt Levenhagen, founder of Unified Web Design and host of The Builders Podcast. Matt has been building online since the early 2000s—starting with affiliate sites and digital products before evolving into a full-service web agency. Today, his company serves clients globally, with a strong focus on WordPress development and, more recently, AI and automation through Unified Labs AI. Matt shares his journey as a long-time builder, offering a grounded perspective on what it really means to grow a business over time. From early entrepreneurial experiments to running an established agency, he challenges the common belief that success must always mean rapid scaling and constant expansion. Instead, he introduces a more sustainable approach—one rooted in appreciating what you’ve already built while still leaving room for future growth. Throughout the conversation, Matt opens up about the tension between ambition and contentment. After years of chasing aggressive growth, he reflects on the lessons learned from overextending—taking on too much, saying yes too quickly, and the consequences that followed. This has led him to a more balanced mindset: recognizing success in the present moment rather than always pushing for the next milestone. Ultimately, this episode is a powerful reminder that success doesn’t have to follow a rigid formula. It can be intentional, flexible, and deeply personal—defined not just by growth, but by fulfillment, alignment, and the freedom to build on your own terms. We explore: - Why constant growth isn’t the only definition of success - The danger of scaling too fast—and how to recognize your limits - How to balance ambition with contentment in business - Rethinking leadership: leading from within vs. stepping away - The reality of not having everything “figured out” as a founder - Why predictable lead generation is still a challenge for many entrepreneurs - The value of relationships and consistency over quick wins and so many more... Matt’s perspective offers a refreshing and honest take on entrepreneurship—one that prioritizes sustainability, self-awareness, and meaningful work over chasing endless growth. If you’ve ever felt pressure to scale faster or questioned what success should look like, this episode provides a thoughtful and empowering alternative. Connect with me here: Website: https://www.kimmillerhershon.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kmillerhershon Newsletter: https://link.kimmillerhershon.com/widget/form/aEdmdA1W5MhoMCMfy5O8 Guest Details: Website: https://www.mattlevenhagen.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/levenhagen/ #leadership #entrepreneurship #mindset #businessgrowth #personaldevelopment #leadershipdevelopment #successmindset #growthmindset #businesstips #management #teamwork #culture #companyculture #startuplife #smallbusiness #businesspodcast #selfimprovement #productivity #decisionmaking #impostersyndrome #resilience #motivation #inspiration #careeradvice #professionaldevelopment Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    45 min
  3. Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom Podcast Episode Fifty Six with Dave Gulas

    APR 3

    Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom Podcast Episode Fifty Six with Dave Gulas

    In this episode of Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom, Kim Miller-Hershon sits down with Dave Gli, co-founder of Easy DC 3PL, a Kentucky-based logistics company providing warehousing, fulfillment, and transportation services to manufacturers and e-commerce businesses. Dave also hosts the Beyond Fulfillment Podcast, where he explores the entrepreneurial journey and the mindset behind building meaningful success. Dave shares his path from a long and successful career in sales to entrepreneurship, challenging the traditional belief that college is the only route to success. After choosing to leave college and pursue sales, he carved out his own path—one rooted in self-development, confidence, and real-world experience rather than conventional expectations. Throughout the conversation, Dave opens up about the realities of building a business—from navigating uncertainty and fear to staying grounded through wellness and intentional living. He emphasizes that success isn’t just about financial achievement, but about enjoying what you do, growing as a person, and showing up fully in all areas of life. The discussion also highlights Dave’s approach to leadership and growth—centered on transparency, respect, and collaboration rather than authority. He shares how being open with his team and valuing their input has helped build trust and strengthen the company culture. A key theme in this episode is the power of authenticity over transaction. Dave explains how focusing on providing real value—rather than chasing leads—has naturally grown his business, especially through his podcast and content. His mindset challenges the idea that everything must be directly monetized, showing instead that genuine impact creates long-term opportunity. We explore: - Why college isn’t the only path to success—and how to find your own - The role of personal development in shaping career growth - How to navigate fear, doubt, and uncertainty as an entrepreneur - Why success is more than income—it’s fulfillment and alignment - The importance of wellness in sustaining high performance - A leadership style built on transparency, respect, and collaboration - Why not everything needs to be transactional to drive business growth Dave’s perspective is a refreshing reminder that success doesn’t follow a fixed formula. It’s built through action, resilience, and a willingness to challenge conventional paths. If you’ve ever questioned the “standard” way of building a career or business, this episode offers a grounded, practical, and empowering alternative. Connect with me here. Website: https://www.kimmillerhershon.com Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kmillerhershon/ Subscribe to newsletter: link.kimmillerhershon.com/widget/form/aEdmdA1W5MhoMCMfy5O8   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    28 min
  4. Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom Podcast Episode Fifty Five with Ben Wang

    MAR 31

    Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom Podcast Episode Fifty Five with Ben Wang

    In this episode of Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom, Kim Miller-Hershon sits down with Ben Wong, a seasoned product and strategy executive, fractional Chief Product Officer, and founder of Blue Harmony Advisory—a boutique firm helping companies grow with purpose, clarity, and measurable impact. Ben shares insights from nearly two decades of experience guiding growth-stage technology companies, particularly in EdTech and SaaS, through critical inflection points. His journey spans product leadership, strategy, and advisory roles, offering him a unique vantage point on how businesses scale—and where conventional wisdom often falls short. Throughout the conversation, Ben challenges the idea that success comes from rigid “playbooks” or best practices. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of understanding context, human dynamics, and the deeper “why” behind what works. He also explores how culture must evolve as companies grow, and why leaders need to focus less on preserving rituals and more on sustaining purpose. The discussion dives into the realities of leadership—highlighting the importance of listening, building alignment over agreement, and fostering trust rather than authority. Ben also shares his perspective on navigating imposter syndrome, the shifting landscape of work in the age of AI, and why developing self-awareness and intentionality early in life is critical for long-term success. A key theme throughout the episode is the power of human connection in an increasingly automated world. Ben makes a compelling case that while AI is transforming how work gets done, the ability to understand people, facilitate collaboration, and lead with empathy will only become more valuable. We explore: - How company culture must evolve during periods of growth - The importance of listening and facilitation as leadership skills - Why leadership teams must model the behavior they expect - The shift from authority to trust in effective leadership - How AI is changing work—and what remains uniquely human - The importance of intentionality in career and life decisions - Why giving yourself permission to be “selfish” can prevent burnout - How to navigate imposter syndrome and build self-awareness Ben’s perspective is a powerful reminder that leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about asking better questions, understanding people, and adapting with intention.  If you’ve ever relied on a “playbook” that didn’t quite fit, or questioned your path in a rapidly changing world, this episode offers a more thoughtful, human-centered approach to growth and leadership. Connect with me here. Website: https://www.kimmillerhershon.com  Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kmillerhershon/ Subscribe to newsletter: link.kimmillerhershon.com/widget/form/aEdmdA1W5MhoMCMfy5O8 Connect with Ben here: Website: https://www.blueharmonics.io/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-wang-5731ba3/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ben_blueharmonics/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    39 min
  5. Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom Podcast Episode Fifty Four with Clint Rusch

    MAR 27

    Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom Podcast Episode Fifty Four with Clint Rusch

    In this episode of Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom, i sits down with Clint Rush, a decorated combat veteran and business executive currently serving as president and Managing Partner of Cabinetry and Millwork Concepts. Clint shares his unconventional journey—from studying at the University of Wisconsin to enlisting in the U.S. Army following 9/11, serving nearly a decade with overseas assignments, and eventually transitioning into the private sector. His career spans operations, finance, and executive leadership, including his role as President and CEO of NorthPoint Logistics before stepping into his current leadership position. His story is one of adaptability, resilience, and redefining leadership through real-world experience. Throughout the conversation, Clint challenges traditional ideas of leadership, emphasizing honesty, trust, and action over perfection. Drawing from both military and business environments, he offers a refreshing perspective on what it truly means to lead effectively, build strong teams, and navigate uncertainty. We explore: - Why shielding teams from bad news actually weakens leadership - The importance of radical honesty and transparency in building trust - How military leadership translates (and doesn’t translate) into business - The myth of having everything “figured out” as a leader - Why action beats overplanning—and how to avoid analysis paralysis - The balance between excellence and perfection in business execution - Building strong teams through trust, accountability, and support - How to manage imposter syndrome in high-pressure environments - The role of pacing and decision-making in leadership success - Why asking for help is a critical (and often overlooked) leadership skill Clint’s perspective is a powerful reminder that great leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about being honest, taking action, trusting your team, and continuously learning along the way. If you’ve ever felt the pressure to be perfect or to have everything under control, this episode will challenge that thinking and give you a more practical, human approach to leading and succeeding. Connect with me here: Website: https://www.kimmillerhershon.com Connect with me on LinkedIn: /kmillerhershon Subscribe to newsletter: link.kimmillerhershon.com/widget/form/aEdmdA1W5MhoMCMfy5O8 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    49 min
  6. Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom Podcast Episode Fifty Three with Shirley Wantland.

    MAR 24

    Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom Podcast Episode Fifty Three with Shirley Wantland.

    In this episode of Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom, I sit down with Shirley Wantland, CEO of Recovery Consultants, a company providing bespoke recovery support for individuals and families navigating addiction, mental health, and behavioral health challenges. Shirley shares her journey growing up as the daughter of Vietnamese immigrants in Oklahoma, where fitting in felt like survival, and how those early experiences shaped her views on identity, success, and belonging. She opens up about stepping into her authentic self—symbolized by her now-signature purple hair—and what it really took to move beyond fear, judgment, and societal expectations. Her story is not just about building a successful business—it’s about unlearning perfectionism, embracing vulnerability, and redefining what leadership and success actually look like. We talk about how authenticity can feel risky but necessary, why so much conventional business advice falls short, and how self-compassion plays a critical role in both personal growth and leadership. We explore: Why authenticity requires vulnerability and courage How early cultural expectations shape our view of success The trap of perfectionism and “being ready” Why fitting in can hold you back from real growth The reality of imposter syndrome—even at the highest levels How to lead without hierarchy and embrace collaboration Why self-compassion is essential for healing and progress The importance of addressing mental health without shame or stigma Shirley also shares personal insights into building and leading a 25-person team, navigating difficult leadership decisions, and creating a company culture rooted in growth rather than perfection. This conversation is a reminder that success isn’t about fitting into a mold—it’s about breaking it, owning your story, and having the courage to show up as you are. Connect with me here: Website: https://www.kimmillerhershon.com Connect with me on LinkedIn: /kmillerhershon Subscribe to newsletter: link.kimmillerhershon.com/widget/form/aEdmdA1W5MhoMCMfy5O8 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    40 min
  7. Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom Podcast Episode Fifty Two with Jerry Brazie

    MAR 20

    Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom Podcast Episode Fifty Two with Jerry Brazie

    In this episode of Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom, I sit down with Jerry, an entrepreneur who has built, bought, and sold over a dozen businesses, generating more than $450 million in revenue. Jerry shares his journey from growing up in extreme poverty as one of nine children to building a life and career from nothing no degree, no safety net, and no shortcuts. Through it all, he built a mindset grounded in one powerful principle: total ownership of your life and outcomes. This conversation goes beyond business. It’s about resilience, discipline, and rethinking what real success looks like. We dive into why taking responsibility changes everything, how early life shapes long-term outcomes, and why a lot of popular business advice misses the mark. Jerry also opens up about imposter syndrome, leadership, and the reality behind building and sustaining success. We also explore: - Why responsibility is a superpower in business and life - How adversity can shape your advantage - Why “perfect” business personas are a myth - Why common sense often beats formal education - What most leadership advice gets wrong - How to grow without losing yourself This is a conversation about mindset, ownership, and what it really takes to build something meaningful. Connect with me here: Website: https://www.kimmillerhershon.com LinkedIn: /kmillerhershon Newsletter: link.kimmillerhershon.com/widget/form/aEdmdA1W5MhoMCMfy5O8 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    45 min
  8. Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom Podcast Episode Fifty One with Michael Black

    MAR 17

    Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom Podcast Episode Fifty One with Michael Black

    In this episode of Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom, I sit down with Michael Black, founder and CEO of Success Tutoring, one of Australia’s fastest-growing education franchises, and author of the bestselling book Millionaire Tutor. Michael shares his journey from starting a tutoring business in a spare room as a teenager to building a global education brand with over 100 locations across multiple countries, all before the age of 30. Now expanding into the United States, his story challenges many assumptions about age, experience, and what it really takes to succeed in business. Along the way, Michael realized that some of the most common advice entrepreneurs hear, like chasing “work-life balance” or diversifying too early, can actually slow growth. Instead, he built his success by focusing deeply on one thing, reinvesting consistently, and committing fully to a single vision without a backup plan. We talk about what it means to build a business early in life, how to stay focused in the face of endless opportunities, and why execution matters more than perfection. We explore: Why work-life integration may matter more than work-life balance The case for specialization before diversification Why perfection can delay progress—and what to do instead How reinvesting in your business fuels long-term growth The reality of imposter syndrome at every stage of success Why action, not just mindset, is the key to creating “luck.” Michael also shares honest insights about navigating uncertainty as a young founder, from negotiating his first commercial lease to hiring his first team, and how pushing through discomfort helped him grow into his role as a leader. This conversation is a reminder that success doesn’t come from having everything figured out—it comes from taking action, staying committed, and being willing to learn as you go. Connect with me here: Website: https://www.kimmillerhershon.com Connect with me on LinkedIn: /kmillerhershon Subscribe to newsletter: link.kimmillerhershon.com/widget/form/aEdmdA1W5MhoMCMfy5O8 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    31 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom: Where clichés come to retire and fresh thinking we inspire. Smart minds don’t think alike—and that’s the point. Unconventional Wisdom About Conventional Wisdom takes you inside the messy, brilliant, and bold thought processes of high-achieving leaders, entrepreneurs, and out-of-the-box thinkers. We skip the clichés and spotlight the real talk: the strange decisions that worked, the brilliant ideas that bombed, and the thought patterns that defy the rulebook—but still lead to growth, impact, and the occasional mic drop. If you’re tired of surface-level advice and crave the kind of wisdom that makes you pause, laugh, and level up—this is your new favorite listen. Because let’s face it: playing it safe never built anything worth bragging about.

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