DIY For Business

Join Russ and Greg as they chat with Peter Murphy Lewis, aka Strategic Pete, a seasoned marketing consultant who lives inside a zoo (literally) and has mastered the art of digital marketing. Dive into Peter’s fascinating journey from building a successful travel business to becoming a fractional CMO and marketing expert for unique ventures, including his current home at a private zoo in Wichita, Kansas.In this episode, we discuss:• The power of pixels and the importance of proper tracking in digital marketing• How to use AI effectively in content creation and email marketing• The art of hiring the right marketing pros and avoiding common PPC pitfalls• Real-world insights on why reviews and buyer personas are critical in today’s business landscapeWhether you’re looking to boost your marketing strategy or just curious about what it’s like to live and work inside a zoo, Peter’s got tips, tricks, and a few wild stories that will inspire your entrepreneurial journey. Don’t miss this lively conversation packed with actionable advice for growing your business!Connect with Peter Murphy LewisVisit StrategicPete.com or find him on LinkedIn to learn more about his marketing strategies and consulting services.Tune in, take notes, and get ready to elevate your marketing game with insights from Strategic Pete on DIY for Business!

In this episode of DIY for Business, Russ and Greg share their contrasting networking experiences, from AI conferences to pickleball tournaments, and dive into the secrets of effective networking with expert Michael Forman. With over 30 years of experience, Michael reveals key strategies that work in both in-person and online settings, offering valuable insights for introverts, extroverts, and everyone in between. Learn why arriving early and staying late can be game-changers, how to follow up with impactful handwritten notes, and the importance of building genuine connections without pushing the hard sell. Whether you’re navigating a crowded conference or a virtual breakout room, this episode will equip you with the tools to elevate your networking game.Join us as we explore:• The do’s and don’ts of business card etiquette.• Techniques for introverts to shine in networking settings.• How to engage effectively in online networking events.• The role of humor in building rapport without overstepping boundaries.Tune in and discover how to make lasting connections that can propel your business forward. Whether you’re new to networking or a seasoned pro, this episode offers a wealth of practical advice to enhance your approach.

In this special crossover episode of “DIY for Business,” Russ and Greg are joined by Brigie and the dynamic duo behind Twisted Pickle, Ashley Blakely and Suzanne Griever. Dive into the fascinating world of pickleball entrepreneurship as they discuss how Twisted Pickle evolved from a simple idea into a thriving consulting firm specializing in pickleball businesses. Learn how to leverage teamwork, creativity, and strategic planning to launch and grow your business. Whether you’re a pickleball enthusiast or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode offers valuable insights into blending passion with business acumen. Don’t miss out on this ultimate mashup of business and pickleball expertise!

In this episode of DIY for Business, Russ and Greg are joined by two extraordinary guests, Chip Massey and top DC publicist Adele Gambardella, authors of the book "Convince Me." With backgrounds in crisis communication and FBI hostage negotiation, they share their expertise on mastering the art of convincing others, whether in high-stakes situations or everyday business negotiations.Listen as Chip and Adele discuss:The critical differences between in-person and remote negotiation techniques.How to leverage forensic listening and emotional intelligence in business.The importance of creating an atmosphere of trust and validation within teams.Real-life crisis communication scenarios and how to handle them effectively.Gain invaluable insights from their unique perspectives and learn how to enhance your negotiation skills and crisis management strategies. Don't miss out on their engaging stories and practical advice that can transform your approach to business communication.Keywords:Negotiation, Crisis Communication, FBI Hostage Negotiation, Forensic Listening, Business Communication, Emotional Intelligence, Remote Work, Team Management, Crisis Management, Effective Communication, Convince Me BookHashtags:#DIYForBusiness #NegotiationSkills #CrisisCommunication #BusinessPodcast #RemoteWork #TeamManagement #ForensicListening #ConvinceMe #EmotionalIntelligence #EffectiveCommunication

In this vibrant episode of DIY for Business, join Russ and Greg as they explore the dynamic blend of art, co-working spaces, and strategic marketing. With special guest Jesse James Wroblewski, dive into how embracing your inner 'marketing supervillain' can differentiate and elevate your brand. Discover the power of niche marketing, the advantages of targeted advertising, and innovative approaches to stand out against industry giants. Whether you're a small business owner or an established entrepreneur, this episode is packed with actionable insights tailored to help your business thrive in competitive environments.Key Highlights:Co-working Space Adventures: Russ' experiences with espresso shots and impromptu improv across the street - a testament to leveraging local ecosystems for business and personal growth.Walking Meetings and Book Insights: Russ discusses how integrating walking into his daily routine brings a new dimension to multitasking, from meetings on the go to digesting the latest business reads via the Everand app.Mastering the Art of Differentiation with Jesse James Wroblewski: Uncover the philosophies behind marketing like a supervillain, where less is more, and smart, focused strategies trump big budgets.Personal Stories of Pivoting: Both hosts share personal anecdotes reflecting their journeys and transitions, emphasizing adaptation and clever positioning in the market.Advice for Aspiring Supervillains in Marketing: Jesse offers practical tips on standing out authentically, understanding customer needs deeply, and strategically placing your brand for maximum impact without overwhelming budgets.Tune In:Listen to the full episode on DIY for Business Podcast for a deep dive into leveraging creativity and strategic mischief in your marketing efforts. Whether you're looking to refresh your business model or find your unique voice in a saturated market, this episode will equip you with the knowledge and inspiration you need!

In this episode of DIY for Business, join hosts Russ and Greg as they dive into a kaleidoscope of topics from the unexpected lessons of the Oscars and the strategy behind wearing black, to the intriguing world of business transitions with special guest, Tom Conlon, founder of North Street Creative. Discover the art of branding and web design tailored for B2B success, and unravel the complexities of making pivotal business decisions. Don't miss our engaging discussion on evolving business landscapes and the importance of niche expertise in the digital age. Tune in to gain actionable insights for navigating your business journey with confidence.

Join Russ and Greg on a captivating episode of DIY for Business as they welcome Kyle Smith, CFO and co-founder of Strata Cloud, diving into the crucial interplay between finance and marketing strategies for business success. From Russ's enlightening trip to Austin and insights into FileMaker's capabilities to exploring the financial intricacies of starting and scaling a business, this episode covers it all. Kyle shares his expert perspective on when to engage a fractional CFO, the top financial metrics every business owner should monitor, and the delicate dance between controlling costs and investing in growth. Whether you're contemplating a new venture or seeking ways to optimize your current business operations, this episode offers valuable tips on financial management, pricing strategies, and leveraging marketing for long-term success. Plus, don't miss the fun brainstorming session on a potential business idea that combines the best of sports and dining. Tune in to gain actionable insights and learn how to make informed decisions that drive profitability and growth.This description is crafted to highlight the episode's diverse content, focusing on valuable insights for entrepreneurs and business managers looking to balance financial health with aggressive growth strategies.

In this insightful episode of DIY for Business, hosts Russ and Greg dive deep into the nuances of creating a compelling remote work culture with special guest Gerry Godori, a seasoned expert in leadership, team building, and author of "Destination Employer." From transitioning traditional office settings to fully remote operations, Gerry shares invaluable strategies for attracting, recruiting, and retaining top talent in today's dynamic work environment. Learn how to navigate the challenges of maintaining a strong company culture across diverse locations, understanding the unique needs of different departments, and leveraging personal insights to foster employee growth and satisfaction. Whether you're a startup navigating the complexities of remote team dynamics or an established business looking to enhance your remote work policies, this episode is packed with actionable tips and thoughtful reflections on making your company a true destination for talent. Tune in to discover how you can create a work environment where engagement, fulfillment, and growth aren't just goals, but the foundation of your success.

Join Russ and Greg in a unique episode of DIY for Business, recorded from a co-working space's phone booth! They dive into the vibrant world of startups with tech expert Bill Bolden. With over 24 years of experience and a knack for launching tech startups, Bill shares invaluable insights into the dos and don'ts of the startup ecosystem. From distinguishing between B2B and B2C app development to identifying red flags in startup operations, Bill's advice is a goldmine for aspiring entrepreneurs. He emphasizes the importance of understanding product engineering, the peril of constant pivoting, and the need for a realistic view of what an MVP (Minimum Viable Product) should be. This episode is not just a conversation but a masterclass for anyone looking to navigate the complex terrain of tech startups. Tune in for an engaging and enlightening session that could be the compass you need for your entrepreneurial journey!

In this episode of DIY for Business, join us as we welcome Ken Wentworth, also known as Mr. Biz, a dynamic entrepreneur with a unique journey. Discover how his relentless pursuit of goals, from powerlifting to business, offers valuable lessons in achieving success. We delve into his four-step methodology for goal achievement, outlined in his latest book, "Don't Fake the Funk." Ken shares his experiences, from rehabilitating after injuries to obtaining a trademark for his nickname, illustrating the importance of perseverance and strategic planning in business. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or an established business owner, this episode provides practical insights and motivational stories to help you reach your aspirations. Tune in and learn how to transform your business goals into reality!