Mastering B2B Lead Generation in the Age of AI: Expert Insights from Bill Rice

In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge speaks with Bill Rice, founder of Bill Rice Strategy Group and Kaleidico. Bill shares his expertise in B2B marketing, lead generation, and the evolving role of AI in shaping how businesses attract and convert clients. Drawing from decades of experience in fintech, mortgage lending, and legal industries, Bill offers actionable insights for executives and agencies looking to thrive in a rapidly changing digital landscape.

The New Rules of B2...

Realigning Your Business with Passion: Expert Insights from Kara Duffy

In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge interviews Kara Duffy, CEO and Founder of KDCC International, who helps entrepreneurs and business owners realign their work with their passions and strengths. Kara shares how reconnecting with what you love can reignite purpose, boost profitability, and prevent burnout. Through her experience coaching creative leaders and building businesses, she offers clear, actionable steps to simplify operations, find your “zone of genius,” and create a company that feels as good as it performs.

Building a Passion-Aligned Busi...

When Is Your Business Ready for a Fractional CFO? Expert Insights from Laresa McIntyre

As your business scales, the financial landscape becomes increasingly complex. Many founders find themselves overwhelmed by cash flow management, forecasting, and financial decision-making—realizing their passion alone isn’t enough to sustain growth. In this episode, host Josh Elledge interviews Laresa McIntyre, fractional CFO and Founder of Rockbridge CFO, who shares her insights on when to bring in a fractional CFO, how to prepare for that step, and how doing so can transform your business operations and confidence.

The Right Time to H...

Navigating the 2025 SMB Landscape: Proactive Tax Strategies and Expert Insights from Adam Williams

Small and medium-sized business owners are facing unprecedented challenges in 2025, from rapid legal changes to AI-driven disruption. In a recent episode, Josh Elledge sat down with Adam Williams, author and Co-founder of Pennywise Tax Strategies, to explore actionable strategies for SMB founders navigating complex tax, legal, and operational environments. Adam shared insights on proactive tax planning, leveraging expert advisors, and adapting to technological changes to help businesses thrive in an increasingly dynamic landscape.

The Power of Proactive Tax Planning

Adam...

Growth Through Acquisition: Lessons from Navy Veteran and Entrepreneur Gary MacDermid

Entrepreneurship often requires both discipline and strategic vision, and few embody that combination like Gary MacDermid—a Navy veteran turned successful business acquirer, investor, and author. In a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge sat down with Gary to discuss his journey from military service to civilian business leadership, offering actionable strategies for veterans and entrepreneurs alike. This post distills key insights from the conversation, focusing on growth through acquisition, creative financing, and the importance of intentional goal-setting.

Accelerating Growth Through Ac...

Mastering Social Media Advertising in 2024: Expert Insights from Madison Hollimon of Mad Marketing House

In the rapidly evolving world of social media marketing, staying ahead of platform trends, AI tools, and audience expectations is critical. In a recent podcast episode, Josh Elledge interviewed Madison Hollimon, CEO and Founder of Mad Marketing House, who shared her expertise in content creation, paid advertising, and user-generated content (UGC) strategies. This post breaks down key insights and actionable tips for businesses looking to optimize their social media campaigns and maximize engagement in 2024.

Navigating Paid Ads, UGC, and AI in...

Sustainable Digital Advertising: How Purpose-Driven Brands Can Reduce Their Carbon Footprint and Boost Performance

Digital advertising powers much of the online economy, but it comes with a hidden cost: a significant environmental impact. In a recent podcast, Josh Elledge spoke with Avril Tomlin-Hood, CEO & Founder of boa, a strategic sustainable digital media buying agency. They explored how brands can take meaningful action to reduce emissions while improving ad performance, offering practical strategies for purpose-driven marketing.

Making Digital Advertising Sustainable Without Sacrificing Performance

Avril explains that digital ads consume energy across servers, data centers...

Unlocking Business Growth: Expert Insights from Sandy Moll, CEO of Advanced Business Solutions

In a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge interviewed Sandy Moll, CEO and founder of Advanced Business Solutions (ABS). With nearly two decades of experience guiding banks, credit unions, and small to medium-sized businesses, Sandy shared her unique approach to leadership, operational excellence, and sustainable business growth. This post distills the main insights from their conversation, offering practical strategies for founders, business owners, and leaders looking to scale effectively while keeping their teams engaged.

The ABS Approach: People, Processes...

Unlocking Scalable Leadership and Culture: Expert Insights from Esther Weinberg of The Ready Zone

In a rapidly evolving business landscape, founders and executive teams face the dual challenge of scaling operations while retaining their top talent and organizational sanity. In a recent episode, Josh Elledge interviewed Esther Weinberg, Founder & Chief Leadership Development Officer of The Ready Zone, who shared actionable strategies for building resilient leadership, cultivating strong culture, and preparing teams for sustainable growth. Drawing from her experience across entertainment and international development, Esther provides a practical roadmap for leaders navigating fast-growing organizations.

Building Leadership...

How Gelt is Transforming Tax Services: Insights from Founder Tal Binder

In a recent episode, Josh Elledge interviewed Tal Binder, CEO and Founder of Gelt, to discuss how his tech-driven tax company is redefining tax compliance, planning, and strategy for high net worth individuals and businesses. Tal shared his journey, the integration of AI and human expertise, and the practical ways Gelt delivers superior service in a fast-evolving tax landscape. This post highlights key takeaways, actionable insights, and tips for anyone considering a modern approach to tax services.

The Gelt Approach: Blending AI with Human...

Unlocking the Power of Email & SMS Marketing for E-Commerce: Expert Insights from Nikita Vakhrushev

In the fast-paced world of e-commerce, many brands focus heavily on acquisition channels like TikTok, Google Ads, and Instagram, often overlooking one of their most valuable assets: their existing customer list. In a recent episode, Josh Elledge spoke with Nikita Vakhrushev, CEO & Chief Strategist of Aspekt, about how e-commerce businesses can maximize revenue and retention through smart email and SMS marketing. Nikita shared actionable strategies to engage warm audiences, optimize backend flows, and leverage design and segmentation for scalable growth.

The...

The CEO’s Journey: Actionable Insights from Patrick Thean on Leadership, Strategy, and Execution

In a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge interviewed Patrick Thean, co-founder of Rhythm Systems®, bestselling author, and executive coach. Patrick shared actionable strategies for CEOs to scale high-growth companies, build strong cultures, and implement practical frameworks for leadership success. This blog distills key insights, providing guidance for leaders seeking to elevate their organizational performance and personal impact.

The Real Role of a CEO: Beyond the Job Title

Patrick emphasizes that the CEO role evolves with com...

Bridging the Gap: How Snow Leopard AI Empowers Enterprises with Real-Time Data for AI Agents

In today’s fast-paced business world, the ability to connect AI agents to real-time, operational data is crucial for decision-making and efficiency. In a recent episode, host Josh Elledge interviewed Deepti Srivastava, Founder and CEO of Snow Leopard AI, to discuss how enterprises can leverage AI agents effectively while ensuring access to accurate, actionable data. Deepti shares practical guidance for integrating AI, overcoming technical challenges, and maximizing the value of AI-driven workflows

The Role of Real-Time Data in AI Agent Su...

How CEO Concierge is Revolutionizing Virtual Assistant Services for Entrepreneurs: Insights from Jana Franklin

In this episode, host Josh Elledge sits down with Jana Franklin, Founder and CEO of CEO Concierge, to discuss how her company is transforming virtual assistant services for entrepreneurs. Jana shares her personal journey, the challenges she faced as a business owner, and how CEO Concierge helps clients delegate tasks effectively, embrace technology, and maximize productivity. Listeners will gain actionable insights for scaling their businesses while maintaining balance and efficiency.

The Power of Personality and Skill Matching

One of...

Unlocking the Power of Voice AI: Insights from Mohan Gulati

Voice technology is transforming the way we interact with digital platforms, making communication more natural, efficient, and human-like. In a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge interviewed Mohan Gulati, Founder and CEO of Thinkrr.AI, about his journey and the innovative ways his company is leveraging voice AI. This episode is packed with actionable insights for businesses, entrepreneurs, and tech enthusiasts eager to harness voice technology for growth and efficiency.

How Voice AI is Changing Business Communication

Voice AI is...

The Art of Authentic Speaking: Lessons from Marianne Hickman

In a world increasingly dominated by automation and AI, genuine human connection is more valuable than ever. In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge sits down with Marianne Hickman—speaker coach, top 1% podcaster, and advocate for authentic expression. They explore the power of vulnerability, the nuances of public speaking, and how leading with authenticity can create lasting impact.

Rediscovering Authenticity in Speaking

Marianne emphasizes that in a digital world filled with AI-generated content, audiences crave realness. She encourages speakers to show th...

How to Transition from 1:1 Coaching to Profitable Group Programs: Insights from Cailen Ascher

Feeling stuck trading time for money as a coach or consultant? In this episode, Josh Elledge interviews Cailen Ascher, founder of Success Made Simple, to explore how she transitioned from one-on-one coaching to scalable, high-impact group programs. Cailen shares actionable strategies to create transformational group offers, price them for profit, and attract clients ready to invest—all while reclaiming your time and building a business that supports your lifestyle.

Why Group Coaching Works

Cailen’s shift to group programs was driv...

Unlocking Leadership and Decision-Making: Insights from Rick Williams

In this episode, Josh Elledge sits down with Rick Williams—keynote speaker, author of Create the Future: Powerful Decision Making Tools for Your Company and Yourself, and experienced board member—to explore actionable strategies for leaders. Rick shares how diverse experiences, effective board governance, and structured decision-making can accelerate organizational success and personal leadership growth.

Leadership Lessons and Decision-Making Frameworks

Rick emphasizes that leadership is a blend of strategy, personal growth, and practical execution. Drawing lessons from sailing and photography, he explains how diverse interests can...

Why Writing a Book in 2025 Is a Game-Changer for Entrepreneurs: Expert Insights from Book Coach Jennifer Crosswhite

In today’s fast-moving business world, standing out as a thought leader requires more than just expertise—it requires authority. In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge sits down with Jennifer Crosswhite, seasoned book coach, editor, and CEO and Owner of Tandem Services Inc., to discuss why writing a book in 2025 is one of the most powerful moves an entrepreneur, coach, or CEO can make. Jennifer shares her experience navigating both traditional and self-publishing, revealing actionable strategies for...

Transforming Lives and Businesses: The Power of Remote Teams with ZimWorX

In a world where remote work is reshaping the way companies operate, ZimWorX is leading the charge by combining operational excellence with social impact. In a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge spoke with JW Oliver, CEO and Co-founder of ZimWorX, about how the company is transforming lives in regions with high unemployment while delivering top-tier remote workforce solutions. This post highlights actionable insights and strategies from their conversation for leaders looking to grow their business and make a meaningful impact.

...

How to Find and Secure Speaking Gigs: Expert Strategies from Dannella Burnett

Are you a coach, business owner, or expert looking to grow your audience, income, and impact through speaking? In a recent podcast episode, Josh Elledge sat down with Dannella Burnett, founder of Speakers Need to Speak and Encore Elite Events, to share actionable strategies for landing more speaking gigs, maximizing stage opportunities, and building a sustainable speaking career.

Unlocking More Speaking Opportunities

One of the biggest hurdles speakers face is access—finding the right events that align with their expertise and go...

How to Optimize Your Brand for AI Search: Expert Insights from Liudmila Kiseleva, Vertology AI Founder

AI is transforming SEO, changing how brands are discovered and perceived online. In a recent episode, Josh Elledge interviewed Liudmila Kiseleva, Founder of Vertology AI, about strategies brands can use to thrive in AI-driven search. From updating digital footprints to leveraging AI visibility tools, Liudmila shared actionable tips to help businesses stay relevant and authoritative in this evolving landscape.

The AI SEO Revolution: Key Strategies for Brands

Liudmila explains that AI-powered search is shifting from traditional keyword...

Unlocking the Power of Generative AI Agents: Insights from Ajay Malik, CEO of StudioX

Generative AI is revolutionizing the way businesses operate, moving beyond basic chatbots to autonomous AI agents that can handle complex workflows. In this episode, Josh Elledge interviews Ajay Malik, CEO and founder of StudioX, about how agent-based AI is transforming enterprise efficiency, automating repetitive tasks, and enabling smarter decision-making. Ajay shares practical strategies for adopting AI, leveraging no-code tools, and integrating intelligent agents into business operations for measurable results.

How Agent AI is Changing Business

Most businesses are familiar...

Thriving in Uncertainty: Leadership, Learning, and Performance Science with Dr. Carla Fowler

In an unpredictable world, leaders and professionals need more than strategies—they need resilience, adaptability, and insight. In this episode, host Josh Elledge sits down with Dr. Carla Fowler, Founder and Managing Director of THAXA®, to explore how high performance, deliberate learning, and science-backed leadership approaches can help individuals not just survive, but thrive in uncertainty.

Mastering Learning and Leadership in Uncertainty

Dr. Carla Fowler brings a unique perspective, combining human biology, immunology, medicine, and over a decade of executive coaching to...

The Power of Inner Work: Transforming Relationships, Business, and Emotional Health with Ray Biancalana

In this episode, Josh Elledge sits down with Ray Biancalana—certified relationship coach, best-selling author, and founder of Coaching with Ray—to explore how inner work transforms relationships, business success, and emotional well-being. Drawing from decades of experience, Ray shares actionable insights on self-inquiry, shadow work, and breaking free from emotional patterns that hold us back. Listeners gain practical strategies for addressing internal barriers and cultivating curiosity, vulnerability, and connection in all areas of life.

Inner Work as the Key to Pers...

Building Business Value Through Strategic Branding: Insights from Wendy Coulter of Hummingbird Creative Group

In a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge interviewed Wendy Coulter, President and CEO of Hummingbird Creative Group. With over three decades of expertise in branding and marketing, Wendy discussed how strategic branding can transform a business—not just in terms of sales and marketing, but across company culture, operations, and even its overall valuation. This episode is a must-listen for business leaders, marketers, and entrepreneurs looking to leverage branding for long-term success.

Strategic Branding as...

Breaking Barriers and Building Community: Brittney Lincoln’s Guide to Women in Franchising

In a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, Josh Elledge sits down with Brittney Lincoln, Founder of Females in Franchising, to explore the opportunities and challenges for women in the franchising industry. Brittney shares her journey, insights on gender dynamics, and practical strategies for women looking to succeed in franchising. This conversation highlights the power of mentorship, community, and emerging franchise opportunities, offering a roadmap for aspiring and current female entrepreneurs in the space.

Empowering Women in a Male-Dominated Industry

Br...

Unlocking Small Business Success: Insights from Levi King, Founder & CEO of Nav

In a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge speaks with Levi King, Founder and CEO of Nav, about building a solid financial foundation for small business growth. Levi draws on his experience as a serial entrepreneur and fintech leader to unpack the complexities of business credit, share best practices for navigating the often unregulated lending landscape, and highlight the mental health priorities that keep entrepreneurs resilient. This conversation offers practical strategies and tools for business owners who want to strengthen their credit...

How to Successfully Work with Local Governments: Insights from Shane Silsby of Silsby Strategic Advisors

In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge talks with Shane Silsby, CEO and Founder of Silsby Strategic Advisors and author of Managing for Meteors: Preparing Local Government Leaders Before the Impact. Shane shares his deep expertise on the evolving local government landscape, the challenges agencies face, and how businesses can position themselves as trusted, long-term partners. Listeners gain practical advice on building authentic relationships, navigating procurement, and offering strategic value beyond just the lowest bid.

Building Trust...

Data-Driven B2B Growth in 2025: Insights from Hamlet Azarian of Azarian Growth Agency

In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, Josh Elledge talks with Hamlet Azarian, CEO of Azarian Growth Agency, about how B2B companies can accelerate growth in 2025 using real-time data, AI integration, and signal-based marketing strategies. Hamlet explains how his team helps founder-led startups and mid-market companies break through revenue plateaus by aligning marketing and sales processes with timely, personalized outreach. This conversation reveals the specific tactics, tools, and mindset shifts businesses need to stay competitive in today’s fast-changing landscape.

Unlocking Sustainable Growth with Customer Retention Strategies from Yemi Oluseun of The Change Hive

In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge speaks with Yemi Oluseun, Founder and CEO of The Change Hive. With a background in fintech and corporate transformation, Yemi shares why customer retention—not just acquisition—is the most powerful growth lever for any business. She outlines her five-point retention model, detailing how SaaS founders, service-based entrepreneurs, and growth leaders can build a loyal customer base, reduce churn, and expand revenue through smarter engagement and community building.

How to Build a Re...

Unlocking Sustainable Growth with Customer Retention Strategies from Yemi Oluseun of The Change Hive

In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge speaks with Yemi Oluseun, Founder and CEO of The Change Hive. With a background in fintech and corporate transformation, Yemi shares why customer retention—not just acquisition—is the most powerful growth lever for any business. She outlines her five-point retention model, detailing how SaaS founders, service-based entrepreneurs, and growth leaders can build a loyal customer base, reduce churn, and expand revenue through smarter engagement and community building.

How to Build a Re...

Navigating Sudden Wealth and Money Mindset with Lisa Peterson of Wealth Clinic

In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge speaks with Lisa Peterson, founder of Wealth Clinic, money coach, and author of The Money Catalyst: Your Guide to Prosperity, Freedom, and Living Your Best Life. Lisa shares how sudden wealth—whether from business success, inheritance, or windfalls—can trigger emotional and psychological challenges many people aren’t prepared for. She offers a practical, mindset-first approach to managing newfound wealth, healing money wounds, and building long-term financial freedom through self-awareness and intentional strategy.

Why Mo...

How to Break Free from Founder-Led Operations: Ral West’s Six Principles for Entrepreneurial Freedom

In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge interviews Ral West, founder of Ral West: Livin’ The Dream, a business coach and serial entrepreneur who helps six- and seven-figure founders step out of the day-to-day grind. Ral shares how she and her husband went from being tied to every task in their business to building systems that gave them true freedom. She breaks down her six principles for entrepreneurial freedom and explains how founders can delegate with confidence, build teams that...

Harnessing AI for Human-Centered Digital Transformation with Kamales Lardi of Lardi & Partner Consulting

In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge interviews Kamales Lardi, CEO of Lardi & Partner Consulting and author of Artificial Intelligence for Business: Harness AI for Value, Growth, and Innovation. Kamales shares how businesses can embrace digital transformation through AI while keeping the human element at the center. With decades of experience advising Fortune 500s, startups, and mid-sized companies, Kamales offers practical frameworks and expert guidance for business leaders navigating the complexities of tech disruption, virtual workforces, and sustainable innovation.

...

Unlocking Identity, Mindset, and Service-Driven Growth with Paul Tembunde of Premier Destiny

In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge talks with Paul Tembunde, Co-founder and CEO of Premier Destiny. Drawing on over two decades of experience in the home care industry and his journey as a transformational coach, Paul shares how shifting your identity, cultivating a growth mindset, and building a service-focused business can lead to true personal and professional fulfillment. If you're looking to rediscover your purpose and align your work with your calling, this episode offers real strategies to help unlock your...

Authentic Leadership and People-First Culture with Chris Robinson of Maxwell Leadership

In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge speaks with Chris Robinson, Executive Vice President of the Maxwell Leadership Institute and founder of chrisrobinsonspeaker.com. Chris shares a transformative approach to leadership rooted in authenticity, empathy, and personal connection. This episode explores how leaders can foster a culture that retains talent, inspires teams, and builds lasting impact by putting people first.

Leadership That Connects: How to Build Culture Through Trust and Care

Chris Robinson believes that effective leadership comes down...

Unlocking Quantum Revenue Growth with AI – Insights from Ursula Mentjes of Ursula Inc.

In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge speaks with Ursula Mentjes, founder of Ursula Inc. and host of the Quantum Revenue Expansion podcast. Ursula shares how entrepreneurs can leverage AI tools like custom GPTs and AI agents to scale smarter, build stronger systems, and increase revenue. If you're a service-based business owner aiming for seven figures, this conversation offers practical guidance and expert-level strategy for navigating the fast-changing landscape of AI and automation.

How AI is Reshaping Sales, Content, an...

How to Launch and Scale a Successful E-Commerce Brand: Expert Insights from Mo Elhawary

In today’s fast-paced e-commerce landscape, founders and marketers need more than just trends to succeed; they need actionable strategies for driving real growth. In a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge sat down with Mo Elhawary, Founder of Launch and Scale Agency, to discuss the most effective tactics for launching and scaling e-commerce brands, particularly in the supplement and wellness sectors. Mo's agency has helped scale eight- and nine-figure brands, offering valuable insights on holistic success and marketing strategies fo...

Navigating the Complex World of Leave Management: How AI is Transforming HR for Distributed Teams

In today’s rapidly evolving workplace, managing employee leave has become a daunting challenge—especially for companies with teams spread across multiple states. In a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge sat down with Anant Agarwal, co-founder and CTO of Aidora, to discuss the intricacies of leave management, the role of AI in simplifying compliance, and actionable strategies for HR leaders. Drawing from Anant’s personal journey as a new parent and a tech founder, this conversation offers a wealth...