Memberships to Millions - with Stu McLaren - EP 396


Ever wonder how to transform your business into a powerhouse of recurring revenue? Stu McLaren shares his fascinating journey from the constraints of traditional one-on-one consulting to the expansive possibilities of membership models. Inspired by a mentor's advice to pursue a work-life balance, Stu embraced a model that allowed him to teach and impact on a larger scale, aligning his business acumen with personal fulfillment. This episode unravels how these membership strategies not only offer financial stability but also cater to the evolving needs of entrepreneurs looking to escape the limitations of conventional business paradigms.

Stu takes us behind the scenes of creating Wishlist Member, a top-tier WordPress membership platform, and recounts the trials and triumphs of navigating technical challenges. From overcoming WordPress complexities to the importance of retaining key talent, Stu's stories offer invaluable lessons for entrepreneurs facing similar hurdles. Learn how safeguarding your business against vulnerabilities and valuing indispensable team members can fortify your path to success.

This episode also explores the psychology behind memberships and how providing focused content rather than overwhelming amounts can increase retention and member satisfaction. Tune in as Stu illuminates the path to creating successful membership businesses.

Key highlights:

  • Building Successful Membership Business Models
  • Overcoming Technical Challenges in WordPress
  • Navigating Business Vulnerabilities and Growth
  • Scaling Business Through Membership Models

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What Makes a Great Book? - with Bill Blankschaen - EP 395

Bill Blankschaen, the mastermind behind Story Builders, joins Tony to unravel the art of storytelling and ghostwriting. From his beginnings in education to becoming a guide for influencers and entrepreneurs, Bill reveals how he transforms ideas into bestselling books. This conversation touches on the necessity of clear messaging and strategic planning, and how being a published author can skyrocket your credibility and open new doors for opportunities.

Navigating the world of book marketing, Bill debunks the myth that publishers do all the heavy lifting. Bill highlights the critical role authors play in promoting their work, sharing insider strategies like pre-marketing, harnessing the power of a launch team, and audience building via email lists. By owning the process and engaging with readers, authors can ensure their book's success. Bill also delves into the collaborative process that elevates the creation of a book from good to great, highlighting the benefits of high-touch relationships and comprehensive research.

Look to the future with insights on AI's role in publishing, the significance of audiobooks, and the power of storytelling in scaling entrepreneurial ventures. Bill shares his passion for using narrative to empower business leaders, emphasizing originality and quality in content creation. This is your guide to navigating the evolving landscape of book writing and publishing, filled with inspiration and practical advice for authors and entrepreneurs aiming to make a lasting impact.

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Protect Yourself From Scammers - EP 394

Imagine watching a friend lose thousands to a slick-talking con artist promising the world, only to vanish without a trace. That's a story all too familiar to Tony, and it's why he is uncovering the dirty tactics of scammers in the entrepreneurship and marketing worlds in this episode. From deceitful money bundlers to those hiding unethical practices behind a religious facade, Tony uncovers the techniques these fraudsters use to exploit your ambitions and line their pockets. Arm yourself with knowledge and skepticism, as you navigate the minefield of flashy get-rich-quick schemes and identify the red flags that could save you from financial ruin.

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Social Media Marketing with Stewart Webb - EP 393

Meet Stewart Webb, a dynamic force in the world of automotive content marketing who shares his remarkable journey from stocker at Costco in Alaska to a key influencer in the industry. Stewart’s story is not just about cars and content; it's a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the willingness to embrace feedback, even the kind that stings. Through humor, memes, and consistent engagement, Stewart shows us how to turn audience interaction into significant growth and monetizable opportunities. This episode is your roadmap to understanding the transformative role of creativity and connection in the digital age.

From the snowy landscapes of Alaska to the vibrant buzz of Las Vegas’ SEMA show, Stewart’s path is paved with dedication and high-octane ambition. He and Tony explore the essential leaps of faith required to bring a dream to life, like showcasing a custom-built F-150 truck amidst industry giants. Networking is more than swapping business cards; it's about building genuine relationships that propel you toward success.

Navigating the world of content creation and marketing can be daunting, especially when overcoming introversion or shifting from traditional to video content. Stewart discusses these challenges with refreshing honesty, offering insights into managing social media algorithms and the unique dynamics of small business marketing. Whether you're just starting or leading a multi-million-dollar enterprise, Stewart’s experiences and practical advice provide a rich source of motivation and strategy.

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Overcoming Pain and Cultivating Resilience with Amberly Lago - EP 392

Can you imagine clinging to just a 1% chance to save your leg? Meet Amberly Lago, a top motivational speaker and resilience expert, who shares her awe-inspiring journey following a traumatic motorcycle accident. With 34 surgeries and an ongoing battle with complex regional pain syndrome, Amberly exemplifies the true meaning of resilience. Her story is more than just about survival; it's about the mental fortitude required to turn pain into purpose, highlighting the vital role of community and mindset in overcoming life's toughest challenges.

Amberly recounts her battle with alcohol dependency as she attempted to escape the tremendous pain following her accident. She shares the pivotal moment of intervention by a loved one that spurred her to recovery. This episode is a candid reflection on the power of self-awareness, the importance of reaching out for help, and the profound impact of connection in healing. The conversation underscores how turning personal pain into purpose can ignite change not only within oneself but also in others who need hope and guidance.

Public speaking can be daunting, but Amberly and Tony discuss how the shift from self-focus to audience service helped them overcome their fears. From writing books to speaking on international stages, Amberly’s journey is filled with unexpected opportunities and lessons in persistence. Tune in to learn about the impact of gratitude and self-care on personal well-being, and how sharing personal narratives can inspire others to embrace resilience and joy in their own lives.

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How to Win in 2025 - EP 391

How to Win in 2025. Topics covered in this episode by Tony Whatley:
  • Life Advice
    • Forgive yourself
    • Forgive others
    • Distance yourself negative energy people
    • Assess your inputs. What emotions do you feel?
    • Dealing with burnout or creative blocks - finding purpose
    • Stop supporting those who wouldn't acknowledge or interact with you.
    • The fallacy of appreciation
    • Decide on who to become. Make decisions and take actions like they would.
    • Crafting your identity.
  • Fitness and Nutrition
    • Set realistic goals, not perfection
    • Sacrifice something that you know doesn't help you
    • Hire a trainer or find an accountability partner
    • Post the damn selfie
  • Business and Money
    • Learn a new skill that creates time or income (Apps, Ai, selling, marketing, public speaking, copywriting)
    • Invest time and money into quality relationships, masterminds and peer groups. Stop being cheap.
    • Video content creation - authenticity
    • Quality above Quantity
    • Master organic content first, then spend on ads
    • Take bigger risks, especially if your bills are paid
  • Goal Setting.
    • New Year's Resolutions
    • At the end of each year, there is only one question to answer. "Am I happy and fulfilled?"
    • Set goals to achieve this, as a bare minimum
    • Use a calendar. Schedule everything
    • Align daily tasks with energy levels

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When to Scale Your Business - EP 390

Can every business truly become a multimillion-dollar empire, or is this just a myth fueled by societal pressure and social media comparisons? Let's uncover the reality behind scaling in business and challenge the notion that it's a necessity for success. In this solo episode, Tony delves into the often misunderstood world of business scaling, exploring how some entrepreneurs have been led astray by chasing revenue targets for validation rather than necessity. Tony dissects the pressures that can lead to burnout and emphasizes defining personal success on your own terms. Whether your goal is financial freedom, a fulfilling lifestyle, or pure happiness, he highlights the importance of aligning your business vision with what truly matters to you.

How do you know when it's the right time to scale? Tony shares effective strategies to recognize positive growth and address production delays tied to employee count, facility size, and outdated equipment. By maintaining a lean operation and investing in essentials that boost net profits, businesses can create a surplus that allows for strategic improvements. Learn how to prioritize these need-to-have items to pave the way for smart scaling, ensuring your business not only thrives but also brings joy and satisfaction to your life.

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Building a Successful Franchise - with Michael Hartel - EP 389

Michael Hartel, a former coaching client and now a successful entrepreneur, shares his remarkable journey from academia to founding a flourishing home services company. Michael's transition was sparked by a moment of clarity in a corporate cafeteria, leading him from material science to the world of entrepreneurship. This conversation explores his path from real estate endeavors to launching a general contracting business, emphasizing customer service and reliability. You’ll hear how Michael's dedication and strategic mindset have enabled him to build a business that now operates as a franchise across multiple states.

Michael's story highlights the organic growth of his cabinet installation business, and how the focus on perception and customer experience played a pivotal role in this success. With insights into his transition from a modest truck operation to a sophisticated showroom, this episode underscores the significance of aesthetics and ambiance in creating memorable customer experiences.

Michael and Tony also delve into the strategic growth of Michael’s franchise model, transitioning from hands-on marketing to leveraging the expertise of a top CMO. With his company now boasting 32 locations, Michael shares the operational strategies that drive franchise success, including the importance of royalties and national marketing campaigns. The discussion wraps up with reflections on personal development and work-life balance, where Michael emphasizes the role of introspection and continuous improvement in achieving both professional success and personal fulfillment.

Key highlights:

  • Corporate Culture and Career Change
  • Embracing Productivity and Passion
  • Franchise Ownership Opportunities
  • Business Owner to Franchise CEO
  • Franchise Approval and Training Process

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Driving Change Through Passion - with Vinny Giglio - EP 388

Vinny Giglio, better known online as Vin Giggs, joins Tony for a captivating journey through the intertwined worlds of luxury cars and business success. From his early fascination with the Audi R8, inspired by Iron Man, to owning a fleet of high-end vehicles, Vinny's story is a testament to how passion can fuel entrepreneurial ambition. His adventures in the Los Angeles supercar scene opened doors to meaningful connections and new opportunities. Yet, as his collection grew, so did his focus on quality experiences over quantity, transforming his automotive pursuits into a vehicle for personal growth.

Shifting gears, the conversation takes us to the heart of North Carolina, where Vinny explores the impact of real estate development. His commitment to rejuvenating downtown Morrisville reflects a dedication to quality over profit, demonstrating how passion can transform communities. Through ambitious projects and strategic partnerships, Vinny shares insights into the delicate balance of maintaining integrity while achieving business success.

Finally, the episode delves into the profound pursuit of purpose beyond mere material success. Vinny opens up about the trials and triumphs of finding fulfillment, from overcoming personal challenges to embracing new life stages. He shares touching stories that highlight the evolution of priorities and the essence of happiness. Whether revving engines or revitalizing communities, this episode serves as a reminder that true success lies in aligning passions with purpose, paving the way for a life rich in meaning and joy.

Key highlights:

  • Building Business Through Luxury Car Passion
  • Fulfilling Purpose Through Real Estate Development
  • Success Through Complementary Business Partnerships
  • Passion and Purpose Behind Car Ownership
  • Discovering Purpose Beyond Material Success

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Cultivating Audacity - with Anne Marie Anderson - EP 387

Anne Marie Anderson is a three-time Emmy Award-winning broadcaster, keynote speaker, and author. Anne Marie shares her extraordinary journey from a temporary position at ESPN to covering the world’s most prestigious sporting events like the NFL and the Olympics. In her new book, "Cultivating Audacity: Dismantle Doubt and Let Yourself Win," set to release on January 1st, 2025, Anne Marie offers profound insights into the audacity it takes to overcome fear and doubt. She discusses how being surrounded by elite performers has shaped her mindset and motivated her to embrace failure as a necessary step toward success. Her stories are not just about sports but about the audacity that fuels personal and professional growth.

Anne Marie and Tony dissect the thin line that separates confidence from cockiness, bringing to light examples from the sports world, such as Deion Sanders and Conor McGregor, who are often slyly critiqued despite their proven track records. This episode reflects on how societal norms and personal insecurities can impact self-assurance and boldness. It's about recognizing that external judgments often reflect more about those judging than those being judged, and the importance of retaining self-belief amidst criticism.

Anne Marie and Tony also explore the concept of "skill stacking" and how taking incremental bold steps daily can lead to a more rewarding life. Anne Marie shares her experience transitioning from a producer role to becoming a leading female play-by-play announcer, emphasizing the value of rejection and criticism as tools for growth. She emphasizes the significance of surrounding oneself with driven individuals and prioritizing tasks that align with one’s values and vision. Anne Marie's insights underscore the necessity of mental resilience and the joy found in embracing risks and challenges on the path to personal and professional fulfillment.

Key highlights:

  • Cultivating Audacity and Overcoming Fear
  • Embracing Confidence and Bold Risks
  • Shifting Mindset to Overcome Doubt
  • Building Confidence Through Skill Stacking
  • Fostering Audacity for Personal Growth

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