Waves Business Coaching

Hosted by Jacob Karnes

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Latest episode

Aug 2026

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EN-US

About the show

Welcome to the Waves Business Coaching podcast, where we help you build your dream business so that you can have more freedom. Waves Business Coaching is hosted by Jacob Karnes, the owner of Waves Business Coaching and best-selling author of Master Your First Job. You'll hear from Jacob and other subject-matter experts so that you can create the dream business you need to get the freedom you desire. Visit our websites: WavesBusinessCoaching.com MasterYourFirstJob.com

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60 recent

August 25, 202642 min

67. The Case for Human Content in an AI-Flooded World with Kyle Porter

Kyle Porter spent 12 years covering golf for CBS Sports before walking away at the end of 2024 to launch Normal Sport, his own golf media business. In this conversation, Kyle shares what led him to leave a stable, high-profile role for the uncertainty of entrepreneurship, and why he's betting his entire career on a simple conviction: as AI floods the internet with commodified, average content, people will crave real human work more than ever. Kyle explains why sports may be the last true frontier for humanity (nobody wants to watch a robot make the shot), what it means to write with heart and a distinct perspective, and why original reporting and genuine emotion are things AI simply can't replicate.Normal Sport: https://www.normalsport.com Get Jacob’s Book for Free: https://www.masteryourfirstjob.com/free Visit Our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.comConnect with Jacob on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobkarnes/Subscribe to the Waves Business Coaching Podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wavesbusinesscoachingSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3pbBD2zFZKsq588qJOh9QWApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/waves-business-coaching/id1714852483Visit our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.com

May 25, 202633 min

66. Win at Work Without Losing at Home with Casey Jacox

What does a college quarterback, a 25-year corporate career, and a dad of two have in common? The same six habits that changed everything. In this episode, Jacob sits down with Casey Jacox, an executive coach, sales leadership expert, author of Win the Relationship, Not the Deal , and host of the Quarterback Dad Cast, for a conversation about what it actually takes to win at work without losing at home. Casey spent over two decades climbing to the top of a publicly traded company. He was the number one rep. And he was miserable. What changed was his willingness to be vulnerable, ask for help, and lead from his values instead of his ego. In this episode you'll hear: The three values Casey anchors everything to, and how he measures them How vulnerability saved his career and his family life at the same time The 6 relationship-building habits from his book and why they're common sense, but rarely common practice Why documentation is one of the most underrated habits in sales and leadership What it means to "be interested, not interesting" and how it changes every conversation The difference between naive optimism and belief-backed confidence Why "I don't know" is a leadership superpower when followed by action This one is equal parts sales, leadership, and life. You'll walk away with habits you can use in the boardroom and at the dinner table. Connect with Casey: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caseyjacox/ Grab Casey’s Book: https://www.amazon.com/WIN-RELATIONSHIP-not-DEAL-Strategies/dp/B08924D3ZC/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.k0Mb9iWzbyGVoDMhi51-xi62njXggTAAHE1C6uA1AIw2qn4DQC2AIpbbHqjhXlNi73jnmfVw1H-vvUYISmkhb29vd_jvXs8Sn3X7ugY2reK5autwQ-AoiIkjuKjKkLhiepZ4vVfHqnNPG8PWOHB45ySweEw8n-xSxMYvGuT0iCqlm_0nXdWWrqzeQm0nOXnxYkbJGftX5881wsUE5YTDMPjw775nlHlhFVhLIhywAYs.sUPaeOr9VxAyno0o1hWJmej1zBFyLNI5bE-W-fnjO34&qid=1779472739&sr=8-1 Get Jacob’s Book for Free: https://www.masteryourfirstjob.com/free Visit Our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.com Connect with Jacob on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobkarnes/ Subscribe to the Waves Business Coaching Podcast: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wavesbusinesscoaching Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3pbBD2zFZKsq588qJOh9QW Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/waves-business-coaching/id1714852483Visit our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.com

May 11, 202634 min

65. It's Cool to Care: Building Cultures Where Training Actually Sticks with Jonny Holsten

Most training events are forgettable by Monday. In this episode, sales trainer and author Jonny Holsten breaks down why training fails, and what leaders actually have to do to make it stick. In this episode: Why culture determines if training works (not the content itself) The real cause of the 90% gap between leaders who say they coach and reps who feel coached How to roll out a new framework without triggering team resistance Why almost every performance problem traces back to the leader The two convictions from Jonny's book that will change how you think about your work Connect with Jonny: bridgeselling.com Get Jacob’s Book for Free: https://www.masteryourfirstjob.com/free Visit Our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.com Connect with Jacob on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobkarnes/ Subscribe to the Waves Business Coaching Podcast: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wavesbusinesscoaching Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3pbBD2zFZKsq588qJOh9QW Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/waves-business-coaching/id1714852483Visit our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.com Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sales Training and Culture04:30 The Importance of Training and Culture07:18 Building a Culture of Learning10:13 The Role of Coaching in Sales13:04 Leadership Responsibility in Team Performance18:50 Creating a Safe Learning Environment22:25 The Power of Frameworks in Leadership25:45 Building Trust and Safety in Teams27:49 Lessons from Early Experiences29:53 Key Takeaways for Leadership and Sales

February 24, 202641 min

64. The Intensity Required to Make It to the Top with Sarah Jane Cobb

Sarah Jane Cobb's path to becoming a Chick-fil-A operator wasn't linear—it was relentless. Starting as a 15-year-old team member working for gas money and a social life, Sarah went on to study broadcast journalism at the University of Tennessee, where she built a successful news career alongside her husband David. After moving to Memphis to be closer to David's family during his father's ALS diagnosis, Sarah made the unexpected decision to leave journalism at 26 and return to Chick-fil-A. She spent a year and a half working for an operator, then two and a half years in the Leadership Development Program before planting herself in Springfield, Tennessee with her husband to build results and apply for restaurants. Today, she operates the Chick-fil-A in Glasgow, Kentucky—a dream she didn't even know she had at 15. Sarah's story is a masterclass in intensity, persistence, and doing whatever it takes to earn the next opportunity, even when "whatever it takes" meant working for free to gain experience. Her advice? Be intense. Be relentless. Make people wonder if you're crazy. Nobody gets anywhere great by being mediocre. Get Jacob’s Book for Free: https://www.masteryourfirstjob.com/free Visit Our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.com Connect with Jacob on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobkarnes/ Subscribe to the Waves Business Coaching Podcast: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wavesbusinesscoaching Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3pbBD2zFZKsq588qJOh9QW Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/waves-business-coaching/id1714852483Visit our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.com Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Early Life03:52 Career Beginnings in Journalism06:56 Transition to Chick-fil-A09:42 Navigating Personal and Professional Changes12:29 Deciding to Leave Journalism15:13 Lessons from Journalism to Leadership18:05 Communication Skills in Leadership20:34 The Grit Behind Journalism and Leadership23:01 Mindset Shift: From Victim to Hero25:10 The Importance of Clarity in Communication26:59 Reflection and Accountability in Leadership28:36 Building Trust Through Consistency30:09 The Power of Authentic Networking35:31 Be Intense: The Key to Success39:14 Continuous Improvement: The Journey Never Ends

February 10, 202636 min

63. Building a Career on Curiosity with Luke Frazier

Luke Frazier, Head of Revenue at Good Agency, joins the show to discuss his unconventional path from early podcasting pioneer to marketing strategist. Starting 12 years ago when podcasting required custom-built RSS feeds and manual distribution, Luke used his show as a masterclass in building relationships and connecting with people—skills that became the foundation of his entire career. In this conversation, Luke shares why podcasting has exploded in popularity (hint: it's not about chasing millions of listeners), the tension between doing what you're capable of versus what you're called to do, and why trying to be good at everything actually robs others of using their gifts. Whether you're thinking about starting a podcast, building a business, or just trying to figure out where your unique strengths lie, Luke's journey offers practical wisdom wrapped in honest reflection. Get Jacob’s Book for Free: https://www.masteryourfirstjob.com/free Visit Our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.com Connect with Jacob on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobkarnes/ Subscribe to the Waves Business Coaching Podcast: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wavesbusinesscoaching Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3pbBD2zFZKsq588qJOh9QW Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/waves-business-coaching/id1714852483Visit our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.com Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Background03:39 The Journey into Podcasting08:26 The Rise of Podcasting13:14 Intentionality in Podcasting14:43 Building Genuine Connections20:36 Transitioning from Business Owner to Employee30:14 The Importance of Knowing Your Strengths

January 27, 202645 min

62. Building Velocity in Your Business with Clay Vaughan

In this episode of the Waves Business Coaching Podcast, Jacob Karnes interviews Clay Vaughan, founder and CEO, about his new book "Velocity" and the framework for creating a Velocity flywheel to grow businesses. They discuss the importance of heart, heading, and hustle in business, and how these elements contribute to success. Clay shares insights from his experience in business, including the significance of accountability, culture, and strategic planning. Get Clay’s Book: https://velocitybook.com Get Jacob’s Book for Free: https://masteryourfirstjob.com/free Visit Our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.com Connect with Jacob on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobkarnes/ Subscribe to the Waves Business Coaching Podcast: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wavesbusinesscoaching Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3pbBD2zFZKsq588qJOh9QW Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/waves-business-coaching/id1714852483Visit our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.com

January 13, 202633 min

61. How to Build a Marketing Strategy That Scales

In this episode of the Waves Business Coaching Podcast, Jacob Karnes interviews David Lillard, head of Spartan Marketing. They discuss the importance of lead generation, clarity in marketing strategies, and the role of team dynamics in achieving business success. David shares insights on building a marketing blueprint, turning customers into brand advocates, and the significance of treating employees as valuable team members. The conversation emphasizes the need for businesses to focus on relationships and clarity to drive growth and success. Get Jacob’s Book for Free: https://www.masteryourfirstjob.com/free Visit Our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.com Connect with Jacob on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobkarnes/ Subscribe to the Waves Business Coaching Podcast: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wavesbusinesscoaching Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3pbBD2zFZKsq588qJOh9QW Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/waves-business-coaching/id1714852483Visit our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.com Chapters 00:00 Introduction to David Lillard and Spartan Marketing04:19 Understanding Lead Generation Strategies09:13 The Importance of Clarity in Marketing13:30 Creating a Marketing Blueprint16:58 Turning Customers into Brand Advocates20:55 Building a Values-Driven Team27:39 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

December 16, 202549 min

60. How Great Stories Turn Sports into Something Deeper with David Cobb

In this episode of The Waves Business Coaching Podcast, host Jacob Karnes interviews David Cobb, a college sports writer for CBS Sports. They discuss David's journey in sports journalism, the evolution of storytelling in the industry, and the impact of AI on writing. The conversation also touches on the importance of human connection, leadership in journalism, and investing in young talent. David shares insights from his experiences covering college football and basketball, and they conclude with rapid-fire questions about memorable moments in sports. Read David’s Articles on CBS Sports: https://www.cbssports.com/writers/david-cobb/ Get Jacob’s Book for Free: https://www.masteryourfirstjob.com/free Visit Our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.com Connect with Jacob on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobkarnes Subscribe to the Waves Business Coaching Podcast: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wavesbusinesscoaching Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3pbBD2zFZKsq588qJOh9QW Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/waves-business-coaching/id1714852483 Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background of David Cobb04:00 The Evolution of Sports Journalism06:55 The Role of Storytelling in Sports10:28 Personal Connections Through Sports15:14 The Impact of AI on Sports Writing27:37 The Human Element in Storytelling28:58 The Role of AI in Sports Journalism30:53 Building Relationships in Reporting33:30 Investing in Young Talent37:55 Leadership and Management in Media42:48 Memorable Moments in College Football

December 2, 202533 min

59. The Four C’s of Great Leadership with Dusty Holcomb

In this episode of the Waves Business Coaching Podcast, Jacob Karnes interviews Dusty Holcomb, founder of the Arcqus Group. Dusty shares his journey from corporate leadership to coaching, emphasizing the importance of self-leadership and clarity in effective leadership. He introduces the Four C's framework for leadership, which includes clarifying expectations, creating a system of measurement, fostering a culture of coaching, and establishing accountability. Dusty highlights the significance of repetition in leadership communication and the need for leaders to connect individual roles to the organization's purpose. The conversation concludes with key takeaways on the importance of giving oneself space to think and the value of mentorship. Leadership Gap Assessment: http://www.burnout2breakout.com Get Jacob’s Book for Free: https://www.masteryourfirstjob.com/free Visit Our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.com Connect with Jacob on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobkarnes/ Subscribe to the Waves Business Coaching Podcast: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wavesbusinesscoaching Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3pbBD2zFZKsq588qJOh9QW Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/waves-business-coaching/id1714852483Visit our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.com Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dusty Holcomb04:16 Dusty's Journey and Leadership Philosophy07:00 The Arcus Group and Its Mission09:46 Self-Leadership as a Gateway to Impact12:46 The Four C's Framework for Leaders15:33 The Importance of Clarity and Accountability18:31 Repetition in Leadership for Clarity21:16 Connecting the Dots for Team Members24:05 Final Takeaways and Closing Thoughts

November 18, 202539 min

58. How to Lead Humans, Not Employees with Angela Gill Nelms

In this episode of the Waves Business Coaching Podcast, Jacob Karnes interviews Angela Gill Nelms, an accomplished executive and entrepreneur. Angela shares her inspiring journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a biomedical engineer and a leader in the healthcare startup space. The conversation delves into the importance of leadership, the significance of first jobs, and the need for a strong company culture. Angela emphasizes the value of genuine human connection in business and the necessity of hiring for future growth rather than immediate needs. The episode concludes with key takeaways on fostering a culture of feedback and transparency, and the importance of seeing employees as individuals. Connect with Angela: https://www.angelagillnelms.com/podcasts/ Get Jacob’s Book for Free: https://www.masteryourfirstjob.com/free Visit Our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.com Connect with Jacob on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobkarnes/ Subscribe to the Waves Business Coaching Podcast: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wavesbusinesscoaching Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3pbBD2zFZKsq588qJOh9QW Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/waves-business-coaching/id1714852483Visit our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.com Chapters 00:00 Angela's Journey: From Adversity to Leadership02:53 Crafting Masterpieces: The Art of Blacksmithing and Beekeeping05:46 The Importance of First Jobs and Early Lessons08:36 Service Excellence: The Key to Customer Satisfaction11:36 Building a Strong Company Culture14:17 Values in Action: Aligning Culture with Growth17:10 Evolving Values: Adapting to Change in Organizations19:35 Designing Company Culture22:38 Scaling Teams Effectively26:47 Hiring for the Future29:41 The Importance of Problem Finders34:10 Human Connection in Business