This episode is part two of a three-part marketing series. After covering marketing plans in part one, Bradley Hamner now focuses on the core marketing metrics every small business owner should understand. He explains how to measure cost per lead, customer acquisition cost, and lifetime value, and why these numbers are essential for making informed growth decisions.

This conversation moves beyond planning and into measurement. How much should it cost to acquire a customer? What is the relationship between lifetime value and acquisition cost? And how do these metrics influence your ability to scale? If you want to make smarter marketing decisions backed by data, this episode is for you.

Visit https://workshop.blueprintos.com to register for the upcoming Above The Business workshop.

Thanks to our sponsors

Coach P Consulting

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner, leading a large and stable team of top-performing professionals. Today, he shares the systems, delegation strategies, and specialization methods he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at:

https://coachpconsulting.com

Be sure to mention you heard about it on the Above The Business Podcast.

Autopilot Recruiting

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every business day. They optimize your applicant tracking system, post job listings, and source candidates through social media and local communities.

With their continuous recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates without paying hiring fees or commissions.

https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com

Mention Above The Business Podcast when you reach out.

Direct Clicks

Direct Clicks specializes in digital marketing solutions designed for business owners who want measurable results. Their team supports companies through paid advertising, SEO, and strategic marketing systems that help generate consistent leads.

Exclusive offer for listeners:

https://directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness

Get a free marketing campaign audit where their team reviews your website, SEO, content, social media, and paid advertising, then provides actionable recommendations. If you partner with them, all setup fees will be waived.

About Above The Business

Above The Business is hosted by Bradley Hamner, founder of BlueprintOS, and focuses on helping small business owners transition from Rainmaker to Architect by building systems, teams, and operations that scale without their constant involvement.

They discuss how buyers think about business value, why multiples are only the first pass in evaluating a deal, and what separates a business that is merely profitable from one that is actually sellable. David also explains the difference between SDE and EBITDA, why systems matter so much in a sale, and how terms can be more important than headline price.

This conversation moves beyond valuation and into ownership itself. What makes a business attractive to a buyer? How do systems and delegation increase both freedom and enterprise value? And why do so many owners build businesses that only a younger version of themselves could buy?

If you care about building a company that is easier to run, easier to grow, and eventually easier to sell, this conversation is for you.

Visit https://workshop.blueprintos.com to register for the upcoming Above The Business workshop.

Learn more about David Barnett: https://www.investlocalbook.com/

Listen to David Barnett’s Small Business podcast: https://www.investlocalbook.com/p/in-media.html

Find David Barnett’s books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=David+C.+Barnett&i=audible&ref=dp_byline_sr_audible_1

Thanks to our sponsors

Coach P Consulting

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner, leading a large and stable team of top-performing professionals. Today, he shares the systems, delegation strategies, and specialization methods he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at:

https://www.coachpconsulting.com

Be sure to mention you heard about it on the Above The Business Podcast.

Autopilot Recruiting

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every business day, optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities.

https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com

Mention Above The Business Podcast when you reach out.

Direct Clicks

Direct Clicks is built by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that drive real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide comprehensive digital marketing support to help your business grow.

Exclusive offer for listeners:

https://directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness

Get a free marketing campaign audit and actionable recommendations.

About Above The Business

Above The Business is hosted by Bradley Hamner, founder of BlueprintOS, and focuses on helping small business owners transition from Rainmaker to Architect by building systems, teams, and operations that scale.

This episode kicks off a three-part series focused on helping business owners build a clearer marketing foundation. In part one, Bradley Hamner breaks down what a marketing plan actually is and how to build one in a simple, practical way. He explains how to determine your marketing budget based on revenue targets, why your budget should inform your strategy, and how to think about allocating dollars across different marketing channels.

This conversation focuses on bringing clarity to marketing decisions. How much should you invest in marketing? Should you prioritize direct response or branding? And how do you create a plan that supports growth without overcomplicating the process? If you want a straightforward framework for building your marketing plan, this episode is for you.

Visit https://workshop.blueprintos.com to register for the upcoming Above The Business workshop.

Thanks to our sponsors

Coach P Consulting

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner, leading a large and stable team of top-performing professionals. Today, he shares the systems, delegation strategies, and specialization methods he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at:

https://coachpconsulting.com

Be sure to mention you heard about it on the Above The Business Podcast.

Autopilot Recruiting

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every business day. They optimize your applicant tracking system, post job listings, and source candidates through social media and local communities.

With their continuous recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates without paying hiring fees or commissions.

https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com

Mention Above The Business Podcast when you reach out.

Direct Clicks

Direct Clicks specializes in digital marketing solutions designed for business owners who want measurable results. Their team supports companies through paid advertising, SEO, and strategic marketing systems that help generate consistent leads.

Exclusive offer for listeners:

https://directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness

Get a free marketing campaign audit where their team reviews your website, SEO, content, social media, and paid advertising, then provides actionable recommendations. If you partner with them, all setup fees will be waived.

About Above The Business

Above The Business is hosted by Bradley Hamner, founder of BlueprintOS, and focuses on helping small business owners transition from Rainmaker to Architect by building systems, teams, and operations that scale without their constant involvement.

They explore how leadership presence affects team communication, why most leaders overestimate their listening skills, and how everyday signals can either invite ideas or shut them down. Megan also explains how habits, attention, and curiosity shape whether meaningful conversations actually happen inside organizations.

This conversation looks at what prevents honest dialogue and how leaders can create space for it. How do you encourage feedback without intimidating your team? What signals are you sending in meetings? And how do you address the “elephant in the room” before silence turns into resentment?

If you want to improve how your team communicates, invite better feedback, and create an environment where people feel safe to speak up, this conversation is for you.

Visit https://workshop.blueprintos.com to register for the upcoming Above The Business workshop.

Learn more about Megan Reitz: https://www.meganreitz.com

Connect with Megan Reitz on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meganreitz/

Check out her latest book – Speak Out, Listen Up: https://a.co/d/090esprL

Thanks to our sponsors

Coach P Consulting

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner, leading a large and stable team of top-performing professionals. Today, he shares the systems, delegation strategies, and specialization methods he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at:

https://www.coachpconsulting.com

Be sure to mention you heard about it on the Above The Business Podcast.

Autopilot Recruiting

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every business day, optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities.

https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com

Mention Above The Business Podcast when you reach out.

Direct Clicks

Direct Clicks is built by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that drive real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide comprehensive digital marketing support to help your business grow.

Exclusive offer for listeners:

https://directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness

Get a free marketing campaign audit and actionable recommendations.

About Above The Business

Above The Business is hosted by Bradley Hamner, founder of BlueprintOS, and focuses on helping small business owners transition from Rainmaker to Architect by building systems, teams, and operations that scale.

In this solo episode, Bradley Hamner explores a tension many small business owners experience as their company begins to grow. The same people who started a business to avoid being told what to do often find themselves responsible for building structure, systems, and processes inside the organization.

Bradley explains why this tension becomes especially noticeable in the $300K to $1M stage of business growth. At this point, the business owner is no longer just selling and producing results. The team is growing, expectations increase, and the business begins asking for clarity, consistency, and routine.

This episode offers a mindset shift for business owners who feel caught between the desire for freedom and the responsibility to build structure. The discipline to create systems and processes is not what limits freedom. It is what eventually makes it possible.

Visit blueprintos.com/assets to register for the upcoming Above The Business Quarterly and access the Above The Business Toolkit.

https://blueprintos.com/assets

Resources Mentioned

Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell

https://www.amazon.com/Buy-Back-Your-Time-Unstuck/dp/059342297X

The E-Myth Revisited by Michael E. Gerber

https://www.amazon.com/E-Myth-Revisited-Small-Businesses-About/dp/0887307280

Traction by Gino Wickman

https://www.amazon.com/Traction-Get-Grip-Your-Business/dp/1936661837

Thanks to our sponsors

Coach P Consulting

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner, leading a large and stable team of top-performing professionals. Today, he shares the systems, delegation strategies, and specialization methods he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at:

https://coachpconsulting.com

Be sure to mention you heard about it on the Above The Business Podcast.

Autopilot Recruiting

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every business day. They optimize your applicant tracking system, post job listings, and source candidates through social media and local communities.

With their continuous recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates without paying hiring fees or commissions.

https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com

Mention Above The Business Podcast when you reach out.

Direct Clicks

Direct Clicks specializes in digital marketing solutions designed for business owners who want measurable results. Their team supports companies through paid advertising, SEO, and strategic marketing systems that help generate consistent leads.

Exclusive offer for listeners:

https://directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness

Get a free marketing campaign audit where their team reviews your website, SEO, content, social media, and paid advertising, then provides actionable recommendations. If you partner with them, all setup fees will be waived.

About Above The Business

Above The Business is hosted by Bradley Hamner, founder of BlueprintOS, and focuses on helping small business owners transition from Rainmaker to Architect by building systems, teams, and operations that scale without their constant involvement.

They discuss why feedback can feel threatening, why leaders often get defensive in the moment, and how asking for feedback can build trust before giving it. Amy also explains how mindfulness, curiosity, and emotional regulation help leaders show up more effectively in conversations with their teams.

This conversation moves beyond communication techniques and into the awareness behind them. What does it mean to challenge directly without shutting people down? How can leaders create safety while still being clear? And how do you build a culture where feedback becomes part of growth instead of something people avoid?

If you care about leading with more clarity, giving better feedback, and building a healthier culture inside your business, this conversation is for you.

Visit blueprintos.com/assets to register for the upcoming Above The Business Quarterly.

https://blueprintos.com/assets

Learn more about Radical Candor here: https://www.radicalcandor.com/

Join the Radical Candor community: https://community.radicalcandor.com/

Connect with Amy Sandler on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amysandler/

Thanks to our sponsors

Coach P Consulting

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner, leading a large and stable team of top-performing professionals. Today, he shares the systems, delegation strategies, and specialization methods he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at:

https://www.coachpconsulting.com

Be sure to mention you heard about it on the Above The Business Podcast.

Autopilot Recruiting

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every business day. Optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. Save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates without paying traditional hiring fees or commissions.

https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com

Mention Above The Business Podcast when you reach out.

Direct Clicks

Direct Clicks is built by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that drive real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide comprehensive digital marketing support to help your business grow.

Exclusive offer for listeners:

https://directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness

Get a free marketing campaign audit where their team reviews your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provides actionable recommendations. If you partner with them, all setup fees will be waived.

About Above The Business

Above The Business is hosted by Bradley Hamner, founder of BlueprintOS, and focuses on helping small business owners transition from Rainmaker to Architect by building systems, teams, and operations that scale without their constant involvement.

Bradley breaks down the four stages he commonly sees in small business growth, from startup through acceleration, and explains why the blueprint for running a business must evolve at each stage. The role of the owner, the structure of the team, and the systems that support the company all change as revenue grows.

He also shares a real example from a conversation with a $100M exterior remodeling company and explains how smaller businesses can learn from much larger organizations without trying to copy their strategies directly.

This episode is a reminder that the goal is not to replicate another company’s playbook. The goal is to extract the principles that apply to your stage of business and build a blueprint that fits your own organization.

Visit blueprintos.com/assets to register for the upcoming Above The Business Quarterly.

https://blueprintos.com/assets

Resources Mentioned

The Road Less Stupid by Keith Cunningham

https://a.co/d/0dP23yXZ

Thanks to our sponsors

Coach P Consulting

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner, leading a large and stable team of top-performing professionals. Today, he shares the systems, delegation strategies, and specialization methods he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at:

https://coachpconsulting.com

Be sure to mention you heard about it on the Above The Business Podcast.

Autopilot Recruiting

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every business day. They optimize your applicant tracking system, post job listings, and source candidates through social media and local communities.

With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates without paying hiring fees or commissions.

https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com

Mention Above The Business Podcast when you reach out.

Direct Clicks

Direct Clicks is built by business owners for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that drive real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, their team provides comprehensive digital marketing support to help your business grow.

Exclusive offer for listeners:

https://directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness

Get a free marketing campaign audit where their team reviews your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provides actionable recommendations. If you partner with them, all setup fees will be waived.

About Above The Business

Above The Business is hosted by Bradley Hamner, founder of BlueprintOS, and focuses on helping small business owners transition from Rainmaker to Architect by building systems, teams, and operations that scale without their constant involvement.

They discuss the realities of the early years in business and the lessons Brian wishes someone had shared with him sooner. The conversation explores topics like slowing down as a leader, stepping out of the day-to-day whirlwind to think strategically, and the importance of defining core values before a company begins to grow.

This conversation also explores the practical systems that help businesses grow. Brian shares how building scorecards and tracking the right metrics can change how leaders manage performance and make decisions.

If you are building a business and looking for practical insights from someone who has spent decades learning through experience, this conversation is for you.

Visit blueprintos.com/assets to register for the upcoming Above The Business Quarterly.

Learn more about Brian Kiley:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-w-kiley/

Check out the book referenced in the conversation, The 4 Disciplines of Execution:

https://www.amazon.com/4-Disciplines-Execution-Achieving-Wildly-Important/dp/145162705X

Check out the sales book Brian mentioned, SPIN Selling:

https://www.amazon.com/SPIN-Selling-Neil-Rackham/dp/0070511136

Referenced by Bradley: The Road Less Stupid by Keith Cunningham

https://a.co/d/0g14dJCu

Thanks to our sponsors

Coach P Consulting

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner, leading a large and stable team of top-performing professionals. Today, he shares the systems, delegation strategies, and specialization methods he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at:

https://www.coachpconsulting.com

Be sure to mention you heard about it on the Above The Business Podcast.

Autopilot Recruiting

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every business day. Optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. Save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates without paying traditional hiring fees or commissions.

https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com

Mention Above The Business Podcast when you reach out.

Direct Clicks

Direct Clicks is built by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that drive real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide comprehensive digital marketing support to help your business grow.

Exclusive offer for listeners:

https://directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness

Get a free marketing campaign audit where their team reviews your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provides actionable recommendations. If you partner with them, all setup fees will be waived.

About Above The Business

Above The Business is hosted by Bradley Hamner, founder of BlueprintOS, and focuses on helping small business owners transition from Rainmaker to Architect by building systems, teams, and operations that scale without their constant involvement.

Bradley explains how two questions, “What matters?” and “What are you going to do about it?”, can guide strategic planning at every level of a company. Whether thinking about a three-year vision, annual objectives, or the next 90 days, these questions help business owners focus on the actions that move the organization forward.

The episode also highlights the importance of surrounding yourself with other business owners who are committed to growth. With the right environment, leaders can reflect on past results, clarify their priorities, and create alignment for the next stage of their business.

Visit blueprintos.com/assets to register for the upcoming Above The Business Quarterly.

Thanks to our sponsors

Coach P Consulting

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner, leading a large and stable team of top-performing professionals. Today, he shares the systems, delegation strategies, and specialization methods he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at:

https://www.coachpconsulting.com

Be sure to mention you heard about it on the Above The Business Podcast.

Autopilot Recruiting

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every business day. Optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. Save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates without paying traditional hiring fees or commissions.

https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com

Mention Above The Business Podcast when you reach out.

Direct Clicks

Direct Clicks is built by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that drive real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide comprehensive digital marketing support to help your business grow.

Exclusive offer for listeners:

https://directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness

Get a free marketing campaign audit where their team reviews your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provides actionable recommendations. If you partner with them, all setup fees will be waived.

About Above The Business

Above The Business is hosted by Bradley Hamner, founder of BlueprintOS, and focuses on helping small business owners transition from Rainmaker to Architect by building systems, teams, and operations that allow the business to scale.

They discuss the difference between leadership knowledge and leadership wisdom, and why leaders benefit from reflection, feedback, and strong leadership models. The conversation focuses on how entrepreneurs can turn leadership ideas into habits that influence culture, decision making, and team development.

This conversation moves beyond leadership techniques and into the mindset behind them. What does it mean to lead with self-awareness? How does a business owner create a culture where honest feedback is welcomed? And how can leaders continue growing even when they are the ones at the top?

If you care about becoming a better leader while building a stronger organization around you, this conversation is for you.

Visit blueprintos.com/assets to register for the upcoming Above The Business Quarterly.

Pre-order Dr. Paden’s new book, The Core: Eight Principles for Building Strong, Authentic Leadership here: https://greatdaysleadership.com/the-core/

Learn more about Great Days Leadership: https://greatdaysleadership.com/

Check out the referenced book by Kim Scott, Radical Candor: https://www.amazon.com/Radical-Candor-Kick-Ass-Without-Humanity/dp/1250103509

Thanks to our sponsors

Coach P Consulting

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner, leading a large and stable team of top-performing professionals. Today, he shares the systems, delegation strategies, and specialization methods he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at:

https://www.coachpconsulting.com

Be sure to mention you heard about it on the Above The Business Podcast.

Autopilot Recruiting

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every business day. Optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. Save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates without paying traditional hiring fees or commissions.

https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com

Mention Above The Business Podcast when you reach out.

Direct Clicks

Direct Clicks is built by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that drive real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide comprehensive digital marketing support to help your business grow.

Exclusive offer for listeners:

https://directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness

Get a free marketing campaign audit where their team reviews your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provides actionable recommendations. If you partner with them, all setup fees will be waived.

About Above The Business

Above The Business is hosted by Bradley Hamner, founder of BlueprintOS, and focuses on helping small business owners transition from Rainmaker to Architect by building systems, teams, and operations that scale without their constant involvement.

Bradley explains how this mindset shows up in business and why many entrepreneurs unintentionally “move the goalposts” on themselves. Instead of recognizing real progress, they focus only on what still hasn’t been achieved.

He shares a practical way to break that cycle by creating intentional moments to look back at progress. From weekly reflection to quarterly planning and annual review, Bradley explains how leaders can measure the gain without letting the target constantly shift.

If you’ve ever felt like your success keeps moving further away the closer you get, this episode will give you a better framework to measure progress and lead with clarity.

Visit blueprintos.com/assets to register for the upcoming Above The Business Quarterly.

Thanks to our sponsors

Coach P Consulting

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner, leading a large and stable team of top-performing professionals. Today, he shares the systems, delegation strategies, and specialization methods he developed through weekly training calls and mentoring. Be sure to mention you heard about it on the Above The Business Podcast.

Direct Clicks

Direct Clicks is built by business owners, for business owners, offering custom marketing solutions including paid search, SEO, and social media management to drive real results. Take advantage of their exclusive listener offer: a free marketing campaign audit with actionable recommendations, and if you partner with them, all setup fees are waived.

Autopilot Recruiting

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve staffing challenges by handling hiring for you, from optimizing your applicant tracking system to posting jobs and sourcing candidates daily. Save time and reduce hiring costs while receiving pre-screened candidates, and mention Above The Business Podcast when you reach out.

Watch the full episode on YouTube: Link

About Above The Business

Above The Business is hosted by Bradley Hamner, founder of BlueprintOS, and focuses on helping small business owners transition from Rainmaker to Architect by building systems, teams, and operations that scale without their constant involvement.

Greg shares what 40+ years of working with entrepreneurs has taught him, why the old playbook no longer applies, and what the numbers say is separating thriving businesses from struggling ones right now.

Key Takeaways

Pay yourself a market-based wage. Greg's research is clear: every time a business owner raises their salary to a true market wage and builds profitability on top of it, they make more money — far exceeding the payroll tax cost. It's behavioral economics: you fight harder to protect payroll than you do to protect profit.

Stop spending money to save on taxes. If you didn't need that piece of equipment for 52 weeks, you don't need it now. You can't spend a dollar to save 40 cents and come out ahead. Make more money and pay the tax — that's how you build wealth.

The growth-gets-you-out-of-jail strategy is broken. In a no-growth economy, you can't count on revenue to bail you out of over-investing in people, technology, or overhead. The move: cut costs to get profitable with what you have, then grow.

The black hole has expanded. Greg's 100-company model shows the toughest profitability squeeze is now hitting the $3M–$10M range — not just the $3M mark. Businesses in this zone are incurring enterprise-level costs without enterprise-level scale.

Management efficiency is the separator. The businesses pulling ahead right now are lean on management labor. Many are early AI adopters — using software agents to do more with the same dollars and freeing up management bandwidth to actually use data rather than just collect it.

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions. More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About Above The Business:

Above The Business is hosted by Bradley Hamner, founder of BlueprintOS, and focuses on helping small business owners transition from Rainmaker to Architect. Each week, Bradley shares frameworks, interviews successful entrepreneurs, and provides actionable insights for building businesses that run without you. Whether you're doing $300K or $3M in revenue, this show will help you get above your business and design the systems you need to scale.

Want the full list of 25 books? Head to blueprintos.com/assets to grab the complete Goated Books list plus a link to the Amazon store.

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions. More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About Above The Business:

Above The Business is hosted by Bradley Hamner, founder of BlueprintOS, and focuses on helping small business owners transition from Rainmaker to Architect. Each week, Bradley shares frameworks, interviews successful entrepreneurs, and provides actionable insights for building businesses that run without you. Whether you're doing $300K or $3M in revenue, this show will help you get above your business and design the systems you need to scale.

In this episode, Bradley sits down with Nikki Rausch, founder of Sales Maven and author of The Selling Staircase, to talk about what it actually takes to build a sales team that performs without you. From structure and tonality to training, coaching, and the metrics that actually matter — this one is packed.

About Nikki Rausch

Nikki Rausch is the founder of Sales Maven and has spent over 25 years in professional sales — rising from her first job (landed via a college project) to becoming the top-producing rep in North America for one of the largest companies in the world. After discovering neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) and its power to transform how we communicate, Nikki left the corporate world to teach relationship-based selling to entrepreneurs. She's now helped hundreds of business owners close more sales without feeling pushy or inauthentic. She's also the host of the Sales Maven podcast and the author of three books, including The Selling Staircase.

Connect with Nikki Rausch

1. Website: yoursalesmaven.com.
2. Free Training: yoursalesmaven.com/above.
3. Podcast: Sales Maven (available wherever you listen to podcasts).

Register Now! Lead Yourself First: February 24th - an Above The Business Workshop

FREE workshop for business owners who planned well but are running on fumes.

You set the goals in January. You aligned the team. You built the plan.

But six weeks in, you're exhausted.

Here's the truth: Your business won't grow beyond you until you lead yourself first.

Join Bradley for a FREE 2-hour workshop on February 24th at 10 AM CST.

You'll build your Personal Operating System, Decision Framework, Energy Protection Plan, Role Clarity Matrix, and 90-Day Accountability Structure.

Space is limited. https://blueprintos.com/assets

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions. More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About Above The Business:

Above The Business is hosted by Bradley Hamner, founder of BlueprintOS, and focuses on helping small business owners transition from Rainmaker to Architect. Each week, Bradley shares frameworks, interviews successful entrepreneurs, and provides actionable insights for building businesses that run without you. Whether you're doing $300K or $3M in revenue, this show will help you get above your business and design the systems you need to scale.

Books & Resources Mentioned

• Buy Back Your Time — Dan Martell.
• The Effective Executive — Peter Drucker.
• Alex Hormozi (time study concept).
• Alex Charfen / EPT (Entrepreneurial Personality Type).

Register Now! Lead Yourself First: February 24th - an Above The Business Workshop

FREE workshop for business owners who planned well but are running on fumes.

You set the goals in January. You aligned the team. You built the plan.

But six weeks in, you're exhausted.

Here's the truth: Your business won't grow beyond you until you lead yourself first.

Join Bradley for a FREE 2-hour workshop on February 24th at 10 AM CST.

You'll build your Personal Operating System, Decision Framework, Energy Protection Plan, Role Clarity Matrix, and 90-Day Accountability Structure.

Space is limited. https://blueprintos.com/assets

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions. More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About Above The Business:

Above The Business is hosted by Bradley Hamner, founder of BlueprintOS, and focuses on helping small business owners transition from Rainmaker to Architect. Each week, Bradley shares frameworks, interviews successful entrepreneurs, and provides actionable insights for building businesses that run without you. Whether you're doing $300K or $3M in revenue, this show will help you get above your business and design the systems you need to scale.

Dustin shares his honest blueprint for business owners who've experienced burnout or felt unfulfilled despite outward success. Discover how he's built a scalable business by focusing on team development, strategic recruiting, and the often-overlooked connection between personal wellness and business performance.

Register Now! Lead Yourself First: February 24th - an Above The Business Workshop

FREE workshop for business owners who planned well but are running on fumes.

You set the goals in January. You aligned the team. You built the plan.

But six weeks in, you're exhausted.

Here's the truth: Your business won't grow beyond you until you lead yourself first.

Join Bradley for a FREE 2-hour workshop on February 24th at 10 AM CST.

You'll build your Personal Operating System, Decision Framework, Energy Protection Plan, Role Clarity Matrix, and 90-Day Accountability Structure.

Space is limited. https://blueprintos.com/assets

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions. More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About Above The Business:

Above The Business is hosted by Bradley Hamner, founder of BlueprintOS, and focuses on helping small business owners transition from Rainmaker to Architect. Each week, Bradley shares frameworks, interviews successful entrepreneurs, and provides actionable insights for building businesses that run without you. Whether you're doing $300K or $3M in revenue, this show will help you get above your business and design the systems you need to scale.

Register Now! Lead Yourself First: February 24th - an Above The Business Workshop

FREE workshop for business owners who planned well but are running on fumes.

You set the goals in January. You aligned the team. You built the plan.

But six weeks in, you're exhausted.

Here's the truth: Your business won't grow beyond you until you lead yourself first.

Join Bradley for a FREE 2-hour workshop on February 24th at 10 AM CST.

You'll build your Personal Operating System, Decision Framework, Energy Protection Plan, Role Clarity Matrix, and 90-Day Accountability Structure.

Space is limited. https://blueprintos.com/assets

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions. More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About Above The Business:

Above The Business is hosted by Bradley Hamner, founder of BlueprintOS, and focuses on helping small business owners transition from Rainmaker to Architect. Each week, Bradley shares frameworks, interviews successful entrepreneurs, and provides actionable insights for building businesses that run without you. Whether you're doing $300K or $3M in revenue, this show will help you get above your business and design the systems you need to scale.

Marc Haine shares how theatrical principles can transform your small business's customer experience. Drawing from his unique journey from hospitality consultant to stage actor, Marc reveals why most businesses fail to meet basic customer expectations and provides practical strategies to elevate every customer touchpoint.

Marc Haine is the author of Lights, Camera, Action and a former hospitality industry fixer with 25 years of experience working with hotels, casinos, and restaurants.

Resources Mentioned

• Marc Haine's website: markhaine.com (free touchpoint assessment available).
• Book: Lights, Camera, Action by Marc Haine.

Register Now! Lead Yourself First: February 24th - an Above The Business Workshop

FREE workshop for business owners who planned well but are running on fumes.

You set the goals in January. You aligned the team. You built the plan.

But six weeks in, you're exhausted.

Your best hours are going to fires. Decision fatigue is real. And your team senses it.

Here's the truth: Your business won't grow beyond you until you lead yourself first.

Join Bradley for a FREE 2-hour workshop on February 24th at 10 AM CST.

You'll build your Personal Operating System, Decision Framework, Energy Protection Plan, Role Clarity Matrix, and 90-Day Accountability Structure.

Space is limited. https://blueprintos.com/assets

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions. More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About Above The Business:

Above The Business is hosted by Bradley Hamner, founder of BlueprintOS, and focuses on helping small business owners transition from Rainmaker to Architect. Each week, Bradley shares frameworks, interviews successful entrepreneurs, and provides actionable insights for building businesses that run without you. Whether you're doing $300K or $3M in revenue, this show will help you get above your business and design the systems you need to scale.

Register Now! Lead Yourself First: February 24th - an Above The Business Workshop

FREE workshop for business owners who planned well but are running on fumes.

You set the goals in January. You aligned the team. You built the plan.

But six weeks in, you're exhausted.

Your best hours are going to fires. Decision fatigue is real. And your team senses it.

Here's the truth: Your business won't grow beyond you until you lead yourself first.

Join Bradley for a FREE 2-hour workshop on February 24th at 10 AM CST.

You'll build your Personal Operating System, Decision Framework, Energy Protection Plan, Role Clarity Matrix, and 90-Day Accountability Structure.

Space is limited. https://blueprintos.com/assets

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions. More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About Above The Business:

Above The Business is hosted by Bradley Hamner, founder of BlueprintOS, and focuses on helping small business owners transition from Rainmaker to Architect. Each week, Bradley shares frameworks, interviews successful entrepreneurs, and provides actionable insights for building businesses that run without you. Whether you're doing $300K or $3M in revenue, this show will help you get above your business and design the systems you need to scale.

What if your business struggles aren't about working harder—but about whether your daily actions actually match what you say you want to achieve? In this conversation, Bradley sits down with Chris Papin, attorney and CPA, to explore the critical gap between stated objectives and actual behavior in business.

Chris shares his framework for thinking about business decisions through three lenses: personal, community, and client impact. He unpacks why most business owners don't truly understand their financials (and why that's costing them), the business judgment rule that separates smart decisions from lucky ones, and why Tom Brady's success on offense came from his defensive genius.

If you've ever felt out of alignment with your own goals or wondered why your numbers don't reflect your stated priorities, this episode will give you a fresh perspective on getting above your business.

What Working Above the Business Means to Chris:

"It's gonna shift during where I am in the life cycle of my business. But what it means to me is I go back to the original vision. I have kind of three components that are in my vision: There's a personal piece, there's a community piece, and then there's a client-side piece.

The personal piece is the internal me, my team, the objectives there. The community is elevating others. Obviously we want to take care of our clients. If I focus on those three pieces and really recognize what's at stake and work my business to achieving those objectives, I'm above the business doing the right things I need to do as a business owner to steer people to those objectives.

Fully knowing that I am also the licensed professional where I have to be in my business from time to time to do that too. I'm okay with that because that's what I signed up for, but that distinction matters because I do have to step out of my technician's role to get up into that entrepreneurial role."

This episode of Above the Business is for business owners who are ready to stop reacting and start leading with clarity, intention, and alignment between what they say they want and what they actually do.

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions. More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About Above The Business:

Above The Business is hosted by Bradley Hamner, founder of BlueprintOS, and focuses on helping small business owners transition from Rainmaker to Architect. Each week, Bradley shares frameworks, interviews successful entrepreneurs, and provides actionable insights for building businesses that run without you. Whether you're doing $300K or $3M in revenue, this show will help you get above your business and design the systems you need to scale.

Key Takeaways

"How did your sales team perform as a percent to quota in January? If they had to sell 50 widgets and they sold 55, they were over 100% to quota."

Setting defined timeframes and defined outcomes creates the foundation for effective coaching and accountability. When your team knows exactly what's expected, you can coach them toward specific targets instead of vague goals like "do more."

Visit BlueprintOS.com to learn about the 2026 Above The Business Workshops, our coaching programs, and resources designed specifically for small business owners who want to build systematic, scalable operations that don't require your constant presence.

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions. More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About Above The Business:

Above The Business is hosted by Bradley Hamner, founder of BlueprintOS, and focuses on helping small business owners transition from Rainmaker to Architect. Each week, Bradley shares frameworks, interviews successful entrepreneurs, and provides actionable insights for building businesses that run without you. Whether you're doing $300K or $3M in revenue, this show will help you get above your business and design the systems you need to scale.

What if you could see your business through the eyes of someone who's completed over 100 acquisitions? In this episode, Bradley sits down with investment banker Cameron Bishop to explore the mind of an acquirer and how thinking like an investor can transform your business—whether you're planning to sell tomorrow or a decade from now.

Cameron shares hard-won lessons from his journey from advertising copywriter to CEO of a $400 million company, and now as a managing director helping business owners navigate successful exits. You'll discover why the strategies that make a business attractive to buyers also make it a better business to own and operate.

Resources Mentioned

Rain Catcher

• Website: raincatcher.com
• Email: cameron.bishop@raincatcher.com.
• Connect with Cameron on LinkedIn.
• Free consultations available (no cost, no obligation, no sales pitch).

Visit BlueprintOS.com to learn about the 2026 Above The Business Workshops, our coaching programs, and resources designed specifically for small business owners who want to build systematic, scalable operations that don't require your constant presence.

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions. More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About Above The Business:

Above The Business is hosted by Bradley Hamner, founder of BlueprintOS, and focuses on helping small business owners transition from Rainmaker to Architect. Each week, Bradley shares frameworks, interviews successful entrepreneurs, and provides actionable insights for building businesses that run without you. Whether you're doing $300K or $3M in revenue, this show will help you get above your business and design the systems you need to scale.

Drawing inspiration from the classic movie Groundhog Day, Bradley explores the delicate balance between maintaining what works in your business while evolving to stay ahead of the curve. He challenges the common trap of either being an "arsonist" who burns down everything that's working or getting stuck in comfortable routines that no longer serve your growth.

Key Question: How do you gain 20 years of real experience instead of repeating the same year 20 times?

Visit BlueprintOS.com to learn about the 2026 Above The Business Workshops, our coaching programs, and resources designed specifically for small business owners who want to build systematic, scalable operations that don't require your constant presence.

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions. More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About Above The Business:

Above The Business is hosted by Bradley Hamner, founder of BlueprintOS, and focuses on helping small business owners transition from Rainmaker to Architect. Each week, Bradley shares frameworks, interviews successful entrepreneurs, and provides actionable insights for building businesses that run without you. Whether you're doing $300K or $3M in revenue, this show will help you get above your business and design the systems you need to scale.

Chris shares his personal journey through two burnout experiences—including a 2021 diagnosis of phase three adrenal failure that forced him to completely rethink how he approached business and leadership. He reveals the lifestyle changes, mindset shifts, and practical strategies that helped him recover and build sustainable success.

This conversation digs into the difference between hustle as a season versus hustle as a lifestyle, why "busy" is a trap, and how to design your business around the life you want rather than the other way around.

Visit BlueprintOS.com to learn about the 2026 Above The Business Workshops, our coaching programs, and resources designed specifically for small business owners who want to build systematic, scalable operations that don't require your constant presence.

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions. More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About Above The Business:

Above The Business is hosted by Bradley Hamner, founder of BlueprintOS, and focuses on helping small business owners transition from Rainmaker to Architect. Each week, Bradley shares frameworks, interviews successful entrepreneurs, and provides actionable insights for building businesses that run without you. Whether you're doing $300K or $3M in revenue, this show will help you get above your business and design the systems you need to scale.

In this episode, Bradley breaks down the Curt Cignetti story and the four critical lessons every business owner needs to understand about following a proven blueprint versus trying to figure everything out yourself.

Visit BlueprintOS.com to learn about the 2026 Above The Business Workshops, our coaching programs, and resources designed specifically for small business owners who want to build systematic, scalable operations that don't require your constant presence.

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions. More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About Above The Business:

Above The Business is hosted by Bradley Hamner, founder of BlueprintOS, and focuses on helping small business owners transition from Rainmaker to Architect. Each week, Bradley shares frameworks, interviews successful entrepreneurs, and provides actionable insights for building businesses that run without you. Whether you're doing $300K or $3M in revenue, this show will help you get above your business and design the systems you need to scale.

Melissa spent a decade in the hospitality industry working in hotels, banquets, venues, and country music entertainment before transitioning to business coaching in 2021. She shares the specific tactics and mindset shifts that helped her create world-class guest experiences and how business owners can deploy those same strategies internally with their teams.

From eye contact and name recall to growth mindset coaching and behavioral assessments, this conversation gives you practical tools to make everyone in your business feel truly seen and valued.

Ready to create more margin in your business?

Visit BlueprintOS.com to learn about the 2026 Above The Business Workshops, our coaching programs, and resources designed specifically for small business owners who want to build systematic, scalable operations that don't require your constant presence.

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions. More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About Above The Business:

Above The Business is hosted by Bradley Hamner, founder of BlueprintOS, and focuses on helping small business owners transition from Rainmaker to Architect. Each week, Bradley shares frameworks, interviews successful entrepreneurs, and provides actionable insights for building businesses that run without you. Whether you're doing $300K or $3M in revenue, this show will help you get above your business and design the systems you need to scale.

Ready to create more margin in your business?

Visit BlueprintOS.com to learn about the 2026 Above The Business Workshops, our coaching programs, and resources designed specifically for small business owners who want to build systematic, scalable operations that don't require your constant presence.

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions. More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About Above The Business:

Above The Business is hosted by Bradley Hamner, founder of BlueprintOS, and focuses on helping small business owners transition from Rainmaker to Architect. Each week, Bradley shares frameworks, interviews successful entrepreneurs, and provides actionable insights for building businesses that run without you. Whether you're doing $300K or $3M in revenue, this show will help you get above your business and design the systems you need to scale.

Featured Resources

Club Capital

Go to club.capital to book a no-obligation demo with the team and explore how they can help bring financials to your decision-making table with the right cadence and support.

Recommended Reading

The Effective Executive by Peter Drucker - Essential reading on conducting time studies and understanding where your time as a leader is actually being spent.

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

During a coffee meeting with an incredibly well-read business leader, Bradley heard a phrase he'd never forget. When discussing books they'd both read, his breakfast companion asked about The Fifth Discipline and whether leaders had actually "realized" the books on their shelves — not just read them.

Reading vs. Realizing

There's a massive difference between consuming content and implementing it. Bradley reflects on books he's read where he could share the big idea but couldn't articulate how those concepts actually changed his business or personal life. Compare that to books like The Road Less Stupid, which he references at least once a year and has profoundly impacted his decision-making.

Join Us at the 2026 Above The Business Event Series

Want to experience more transformational content like this? Join us for the 2026 Above The Business event series where we'll dive deep into the strategies, systems, and mindset shifts that help you move from Rainmaker to Architect.

Get above the daily grind and design a business that can run and grow without you.

Learn more at https://blueprintos.com

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

Whether you're hearing these insights for the first time or revisiting wisdom that transformed your business, this Best of 2025 episode delivers actionable strategies to carry into 2026.

Featured Episodes & Key Takeaways

Episode 440: Jason Steffle - Building High-Performance Remote Teams

The Challenge: Hiring in high-cost markets like Cupertino (median income $200k+) and managing teams you can't see,

Episode 446: Wes Adams & Tamara Miles - Creating Meaningful Work

The Research: The Three C's Framework for employee engagement.

Episode 461: David Peterson (Coach P) - The Accountability System That Works

The Problem: How do you hold people accountable without destroying relationships?

The Solution: Make everything visible.

Episode 463: Steve Suggs - The Science of Hiring Salespeople

25 Years of Hiring Research Condensed

Key Themes Across All Episodes

1. Visibility Creates Accountability - Whether it's remote teams or in-office staff, transparency eliminates difficult conversations.
2. Intentionality Beats Systems - One weekly thank you outperforms complex recognition programs.
3. People Are Assets, Not Expenses - This mindset shift changes everything from hiring to development to retention.
4. Specialization Drives Growth - Separating sales from service can double production.
5. Community Comes First - Before culture, before accountability, before growth—build real relationships.

Join Us at the 2026 Above The Business Event Series

Want to experience more transformational content like this? Join us for the 2026 Above The Business event series where we'll dive deep into the strategies, systems, and mindset shifts that help you move from Rainmaker to Architect.

Get above the daily grind and design a business that can run and grow without you.

Learn more at https://blueprintos.com

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

Bradley shares a coaching session with a client who grew from $750K to nearly $2M in revenue (after taking 18 years to cross the first million, then doubling in just three years). The breakthrough? Moving from individual development goals to creating scalable systems.

Join Us at the 2026 Above The Business Event Series

Want to experience more transformational content like this? Join us for the 2026 Above The Business event series where we'll dive deep into the strategies, systems, and mindset shifts that help you move from Rainmaker to Architect.

Get above the daily grind and design a business that can run and grow without you.

Learn more at blueprintos.com

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

This episode is a recast from our 2 Day MBA virtual event held in August 2025, focused on the mindset pillar of building a sustainable business.

About Chad Cannon

Chad Cannon is a business growth strategist and co-founder of Zenith Labs, an innovation studio helping founder-led companies scale faster and smarter. He spent nearly a decade with Michael Hyatt & Co., where he helped scale the business from $1.5M to mid-8 figures as employee #3. He also worked with Donald Miller at StoryBrand before launching his consulting practice.

Chad now works as a fractional CRO for 7- and 8-figure businesses, specializing in the intersection of marketing and sales. He's the creator of two proprietary frameworks - FOUNDER and FLIP - designed to help business owners sell more effectively and eventually step out of day-to-day sales.

When he's not helping business owners scale, you'll find Chad on the golf course in Nashville with his two adopted kids.

Join Us at the 2026 Above The Business Event Series

Want to experience more transformational content like this? Join us for the 2026 Above The Business event series where we'll dive deep into the strategies, systems, and mindset shifts that help you move from Rainmaker to Architect.

Get above the daily grind and design a business that can run and grow without you.

Learn more at blueprintos.com

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

The two survivors? They used an unconventional tactic that wasn't widely practiced: they started a controlled fire around themselves, allowing the main blaze to jump over them.

The Business Lesson

Sometimes we face situations far more challenging than anticipated—sudden team turnover, industry disruption, market shifts. The firefighters who clung to conventional methods didn't survive. The ones who embraced an unconventional approach did.

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About Above The Business

Above The Business empowers business owners to rise above the daily grind and embrace a higher way of business ownership. Join us every Friday as we help you build your business by design.

Subscribe & Connect

Don't miss an episode—subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and join us on YouTube for exclusive content. Your support means everything to our team.

What Worked...Until It Didn't

Repeating successful actions works—until it stops working. Examples:

• Marketing channels that no longer deliver.
• Sales processes from 10 years ago that don't match how buyers purchase today.
• Team members who were once A-players but have slipped.
• Old ways of doing business that are now ineffective.

Your 2026 Reflection Questions

Continue: What worked in 2025 that you want to keep doing?

Stop: What old methods do you need to release? What worked in the past but no longer serves you?

Key Takeaway

Don't fight inevitable changes—lean into the opportunities they create. Be willing to adapt, rethink assumptions, and embrace new approaches. You'll emerge stronger than before.

The Reminder

This isn't about changing for change's sake. It's about having the wisdom to recognize what no longer works and the courage to try something new.

Dave shares the unfiltered truth about building a business, including:

• The gap between knowing and doing – Dave read the book but wasn't implementing it. Sound familiar? He breaks down what changed and how he finally made the shift from knowledge to action.
• The power of belief – Not just having someone believe in you, but having someone who believes for you when you can't believe in yourself. Dave reveals who played this role in his journey and why it matters.
• You are not your business – One of the most important mindset shifts for any business owner struggling with identity and burnout.
• Building the right team – How Dave learned to invest in people and create a team structure that allowed him to step out of the day-to-day operations.
• Mastering your numbers – Dave discusses how understanding and staying on top of his financials became a game-changer in his business growth.

Connect with Bradley:

1-1 Game Plan Call: Get Above The Business. Think Like an Architect. Design The Blueprint. Ready to Design, Systematize, and Grow a $1m-$3m Business? Begin building your business blueprint when you schedule your Game Plan Call at https://blueprintos.com.

Bradley's company, BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks.

Register to join us at an upcoming Workshop or book your Game Plan Call when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About Above The Business

Above The Business empowers business owners to rise above the daily grind and embrace a higher way of business ownership. Join us every Friday as we help you build your business by design.

Subscribe & Connect

Don't miss an episode—subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and join us on YouTube for exclusive content. Your support means everything to our team.

Connect with Bradley:

1-1 Game Plan Call: Get Above The Business. Think Like an Architect. Design The Blueprint. Ready to Design, Systematize, and Grow a $1m-$3m Business? Begin building your business blueprint when you schedule your Game Plan Call at https://blueprintos.com.

Bradley's company, BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks.

Register to join us at an upcoming Workshop or book your Game Plan Call when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About Above The Business

Above The Business empowers business owners to rise above the daily grind and embrace a higher way of business ownership. Join us every Friday as we help you build your business by design.

Subscribe & Connect

Don't miss an episode—subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and join us on YouTube for exclusive content. Your support means everything to our team.

What would your "Me in 10 Years" look like? Share your thoughts with us and let's continue the conversation.

Great communication isn't about perfecting your technique or following traditional public speaking rules—it's about developing awareness of how you're being received and creating authentic connection through alignment between your words, body, and intent. As Nick emphasizes, the most powerful communicators are those who've learned to focus outward on their audience's experience rather than inward on their own performance.

This episode is perfect for business leaders, executives, and anyone looking to improve their communication impact and lead more effectively through authentic presence.

Nick is the author of multiple acclaimed books including Working the Room (Harvard, 2003), Trust Me (2009), Power Cues (2014), and Can You Hear Me? (2018) on virtual communication. His forthcoming book, The Embodied Voice, is planned for 2025. After earning his PhD in literature and rhetoric, Nick taught at UVA, Lehigh, and Princeton before founding his communications consulting firm, Public Words, in 1997.

Connect with Bradley:

1-1 Game Plan Call: Get Above The Business. Think Like an Architect. Design The Blueprint. Ready to Design, Systematize, and Grow a $1m-$3m Business? Begin building your business blueprint when you schedule your Game Plan Call at https://blueprintos.com.

Bradley's company, BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks.

Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass or book your Game Plan Call when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Join us at The Q1 Planning Workshop!

Most business owners hit January with good intentions and a loose idea of what they want to accomplish. By March, they're back in reactive mode, wondering where the quarter went.

Here's the thing: Q1 sets the tone for your entire year. If you don't have a clear plan going in, you're leaving your business growth to chance.

That's why Bradley is hosting a live Q1 Planning Workshop on December 9th at 10 AM CST.

This isn't another feel-good goal-setting session. We're going to roll up our sleeves and do the real work:

Financial Analysis & Planning – Review where you actually stand (not where you think you stand) and set revenue targets that make sense for your business.

90-Day Plan Design – Build a focused quarterly plan that moves the needle, not just keeps you busy.

The Clarity Organizer – Use this framework to translate your vision into actionable steps your team can actually execute.

You'll walk away with a concrete plan for Q1 that creates momentum for the rest of 2025.

When: Monday, December 9th at 10 AM CST

Investment: $25

Who It's For: Business owners doing $300K-$3M in annual revenue who are serious about growth

Click here to register: https://blueprintos.thrivecart.com/the-q1-planning-workshop/

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About the Above the Business Podcast

The Above the Business Podcast helps small business owners get above the business, start thinking like an architect, and design the business blueprint so they can grow their business. Join host Bradley Hamner for conversations about leadership, strategy, culture, and everything small business.

Subscribe, rate, and review the Above the Business Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.

Join the email newsletter and get Bradley's Friday email: https://www.blueprintos.com/newsletter/

This episode bridges two complementary frameworks: the signal vs. noise concept and Dr. Ben Hardy's scaling principles from his latest book. Together, these ideas offer a powerful lens for simplifying your business and focusing on what actually drives results.

Connect with Bradley:

1-1 Game Plan Call: Get Above The Business. Think Like an Architect. Design The Blueprint. Ready to Design, Systematize, and Grow a $1m-$3m Business? Begin building your business blueprint when you schedule your Game Plan Call at https://blueprintos.com.

Bradley's company, BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks.

Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass or book your Game Plan Call when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Join us at The Q1 Planning Workshop!

Most business owners hit January with good intentions and a loose idea of what they want to accomplish. By March, they're back in reactive mode, wondering where the quarter went.

Here's the thing: Q1 sets the tone for your entire year. If you don't have a clear plan going in, you're leaving your business growth to chance.

That's why Bradley is hosting a live Q1 Planning Workshop on December 9th at 10 AM CST.

This isn't another feel-good goal-setting session. We're going to roll up our sleeves and do the real work:

Financial Analysis & Planning – Review where you actually stand (not where you think you stand) and set revenue targets that make sense for your business.

90-Day Plan Design – Build a focused quarterly plan that moves the needle, not just keeps you busy.

The Clarity Organizer – Use this framework to translate your vision into actionable steps your team can actually execute.

You'll walk away with a concrete plan for Q1 that creates momentum for the rest of 2025.

When: Monday, December 9th at 10 AM CST

Investment: $25

Who It's For: Business owners doing $300K-$3M in annual revenue who are serious about growth

Click here to register: https://blueprintos.thrivecart.com/the-q1-planning-workshop/

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About the Above the Business Podcast

The Above the Business Podcast helps small business owners get above the business, start thinking like an architect, and design the business blueprint so they can grow their business. Join host Bradley Hamner for conversations about leadership, strategy, culture, and everything small business.

Subscribe, rate, and review the Above the Business Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.

Join the email newsletter and get Bradley's Friday email: https://www.blueprintos.com/newsletter/

In this business owner spotlight episode, Bradley sits down with serial entrepreneur Graeme Barlow to discuss the blueprint for scaling businesses from $3 million to $30 million and beyond. Graeme shares his unconventional journey from selling video game items on eBay as a kid to building multiple eight-figure companies, including Iversoft, one of Canada's largest custom software development firms.

The conversation explores what it takes to transition through different business growth stages, why simplicity beats complexity in operations, and how the role of the founder must evolve as the company scales. Graeme offers candid insights on hiring smarter people than yourself, the "teenage years" of business growth, and his practical 3-1-90 vision-setting framework.

Graeme Barlow is a serial entrepreneur who has been building companies since childhood. He is currently a partner at Iversoft, one of the largest custom software development companies in Canada, which he has helped grow from a team of 6 to eight-figure revenue. Graeme has built two companies into eight-figure businesses, co-founded ProPet Software (servicing 5 million customers annually), and runs FounderLink, a community for scaling founders. He has invested in over a dozen companies personally and dozens more through funds, bringing extensive experience in SaaS, venture capital, and high-growth technology companies.

Connect with Graeme Barlow:

• Website: graemebarlow.com,
• Social Media: @GraemeBarlow (all platforms),
• Iversoft: iversoft.ca,
• FounderLink: Founder community for scaling entrepreneurs,

Register for The 2026 Annual Planning Workshop: https://annual.blueprintos.com

As we approach the end of 2025, it's time to start thinking about annual planning for 2026. In this solo episode, Bradley Hamner shares his proven framework for creating an annual plan that actually works. Whether you had a killer year in 2025 or you're ready to completely flip the script, this episode will give you the tools and insights you need to set yourself up for success in 2026.

When: Tuesday, December 2nd, 2025 at 10:00 AM Central Time

Duration: 3-4 hours

Cost: Completely FREE

Register Now: https://annual.blueprintos.com

Connect with Bradley:

1-1 Game Plan Call: Get Above The Business. Think Like an Architect. Design The Blueprint. Ready to Design, Systematize, and Grow a $1m-$3m Business? Begin building your business blueprint when you schedule your Game Plan Call at https://blueprintos.com.

Bradley's company, BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks.

Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass or book your Game Plan Call when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About the Above the Business Podcast

The Above the Business Podcast helps small business owners get above the business, start thinking like an architect, and design the business blueprint so they can grow their business. Join host Bradley Hamner for conversations about leadership, strategy, culture, and everything small business.

Subscribe, rate, and review the Above the Business Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.

Join the email newsletter and get Bradley's Friday email: https://www.blueprintos.com/newsletter/

In this episode, Bradley breaks down a powerful concept: build once, ship twice. It's not just a catchy phrase—it's the difference between running around like a chicken with your head cut off and actually designing systems that work for you over and over again.

Through a real client conversation about marketing dollars and lead follow-up, Bradley reveals why most business owners are sitting on thousands of dollars worth of untapped opportunity. The problem? They're so focused on the next thing that they've completely forgotten about the leads they've already purchased.

If you're feeling the cash flow squeeze heading into 2026, this episode is your wake-up call. You'll learn how to leverage what you already have instead of constantly chasing what's next.

Action Steps

If this episode resonated with you, here's what to do:

1. Take inventory. Go into your CRM right now and calculate how many leads you've purchased over the last 30 days, 90 days, or even the last year. You might be shocked at what you find.
2. Choose your path. Are you going to keep telling your team to "work harder" without giving them a system? Or are you going to take a few hours to actually design the follow-up process?
3. Think like an architect. Grab a pen and paper (think in ink), go to a coffee shop if you need to, and design the 12-month follow-up system you actually want in your business. What would you want that process to look like?
4. Build it once. Create the system now so you can use it over and over again—not just for this batch of leads, but for every batch that comes through in the months and years ahead.
5. Get above the business. As you head into 2026, start thinking in terms of systems. How can you make things simple? How can you make them systematic? And then, how can you scale them?

Plan for a Great 2026

A great year starts with a plan—and it starts when you put yourself in the right environment with other business owners trying to do the exact same thing.

Join us for the 2026 Annual Planning Workshop—a completely free event where you'll design your business blueprint for the year ahead.

Register here: blueprintOS.com/assets (scroll to the middle of the page)

This is our fourth year hosting the Annual Planning Workshop, and it's going to be our best one yet.

Referenced Episode

Looking for more on this concept? Check out the episode: Make It Simple, Make It a System, Then Scale (released several weeks prior to this episode).

Register for The 2026 Annual Planning Workshop: https://annual.blueprintos.com

As we approach the end of 2025, it's time to start thinking about annual planning for 2026. In this solo episode, Bradley Hamner shares his proven framework for creating an annual plan that actually works. Whether you had a killer year in 2025 or you're ready to completely flip the script, this episode will give you the tools and insights you need to set yourself up for success in 2026.

When: Tuesday, December 2nd, 2025 at 10:00 AM Central Time

Duration: 3-4 hours

Cost: Completely FREE

Register Now: https://annual.blueprintos.com

Connect with Bradley:

1-1 Game Plan Call: Get Above The Business. Think Like an Architect. Design The Blueprint. Ready to Design, Systematize, and Grow a $1m-$3m Business? Begin building your business blueprint when you schedule your Game Plan Call at https://blueprintos.com.

Bradley's company, BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks.

Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass or book your Game Plan Call when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About the Above the Business Podcast

The Above the Business Podcast helps small business owners get above the business, start thinking like an architect, and design the business blueprint so they can grow their business. Join host Bradley Hamner for conversations about leadership, strategy, culture, and everything small business.

Subscribe, rate, and review the Above the Business Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.

Join the email newsletter and get Bradley's Friday email: https://www.blueprintos.com/newsletter/

Connect with Anthony Iannarino

• LinkedIn: Follow Anthony on LinkedIn for daily insights on sales excellence
• Website: thesalesblog.com for articles, resources, and thought leadership
• Sales Accelerator: Access 93 courses for salespeople and 37 for sales managers at thesalesblog.com

Register for The 2026 Annual Planning Workshop: https://annual.blueprintos.com

As we approach the end of 2025, it's time to start thinking about annual planning for 2026. In this solo episode, Bradley Hamner shares his proven framework for creating an annual plan that actually works. Whether you had a killer year in 2025 or you're ready to completely flip the script, this episode will give you the tools and insights you need to set yourself up for success in 2026.

When: Tuesday, December 2nd, 2025 at 10:00 AM Central Time

Duration: 3-4 hours

Cost: Completely FREE

Register Now: https://annual.blueprintos.com

Connect with Bradley:

1-1 Game Plan Call: Get Above The Business. Think Like an Architect. Design The Blueprint. Ready to Design, Systematize, and Grow a $1m-$3m Business? Begin building your business blueprint when you schedule your Game Plan Call at https://blueprintos.com.

Bradley's company, BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks.

Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass or book your Game Plan Call when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About the Above the Business Podcast

The Above the Business Podcast helps small business owners get above the business, start thinking like an architect, and design the business blueprint so they can grow their business. Join host Bradley Hamner for conversations about leadership, strategy, culture, and everything small business.

Subscribe, rate, and review the Above the Business Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.

Join the email newsletter and get Bradley's Friday email: https://www.blueprintos.com/newsletter/

In this episode, Bradley breaks down why execution trumps ideation every single time, and how to build a 2026 plan that you'll actually implement—not just dream about.

Register for The 2026 Annual Planning Workshop: https://annual.blueprintos.com

As we approach the end of 2025, it's time to start thinking about annual planning for 2026. In this solo episode, Bradley Hamner shares his proven framework for creating an annual plan that actually works. Whether you had a killer year in 2025 or you're ready to completely flip the script, this episode will give you the tools and insights you need to set yourself up for success in 2026.

When: Tuesday, December 2nd, 2025 at 10:00 AM Central Time

Duration: 3-4 hours

Cost: Completely FREE

Register Now: https://annual.blueprintos.com

Connect with Bradley:

1-1 Game Plan Call: Get Above The Business. Think Like an Architect. Design The Blueprint. Ready to Design, Systematize, and Grow a $1m-$3m Business? Begin building your business blueprint when you schedule your Game Plan Call at https://blueprintos.com.

Bradley's company, BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks.

Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass or book your Game Plan Call when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About the Above the Business Podcast

The Above the Business Podcast helps small business owners get above the business, start thinking like an architect, and design the business blueprint so they can grow their business. Join host Bradley Hamner for conversations about leadership, strategy, culture, and everything small business.

Subscribe, rate, and review the Above the Business Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.

Join the email newsletter and get Bradley's Friday email: https://www.blueprintos.com/newsletter/

Bradley shares his biggest annual planning mistakes from his early years as a business owner and walks through the exact step-by-step process he now uses with clients to create effective, executable annual plans. Plus, he invites you to join the free 2026 Annual Planning Workshop on December 2nd.

Register for The 2026 Annual Planning Workshop: https://annual.blueprintos.com

As we approach the end of 2025, it's time to start thinking about annual planning for 2026. In this solo episode, Bradley Hamner shares his proven framework for creating an annual plan that actually works. Whether you had a killer year in 2025 or you're ready to completely flip the script, this episode will give you the tools and insights you need to set yourself up for success in 2026.

When: Tuesday, December 2nd, 2025 at 10:00 AM Central Time

Duration: 3-4 hours

Cost: Completely FREE

Register Now: https://annual.blueprintos.com

Connect with Bradley:

1-1 Game Plan Call: Get Above The Business. Think Like an Architect. Design The Blueprint. Ready to Design, Systematize, and Grow a $1m-$3m Business? Begin building your business blueprint when you schedule your Game Plan Call at https://blueprintos.com.

Bradley's company, BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks.

Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass or book your Game Plan Call when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About the Above the Business Podcast

The Above the Business Podcast helps small business owners get above the business, start thinking like an architect, and design the business blueprint so they can grow their business. Join host Bradley Hamner for conversations about leadership, strategy, culture, and everything small business.

Subscribe, rate, and review the Above the Business Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.

Join the email newsletter and get Bradley's Friday email: https://www.blueprintos.com/newsletter/

If you've ever felt pressure to be the visionary who just "visionates all over the place" while someone else does the real work, this episode is your permission to embrace a more practical approach to leadership.

Connect with Bradley:

1-1 Game Plan Call: Get Above The Business. Think Like an Architect. Design The Blueprint. Ready to Design, Systematize, and Grow a $1m-$3m Business? Begin building your business blueprint when you schedule your Game Plan Call at https://blueprintos.com.

Bradley's company, BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks.

Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass or book your Game Plan Call when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About the Above the Business Podcast

The Above the Business Podcast helps small business owners get above the business, start thinking like an architect, and design the business blueprint so they can grow their business. Join host Bradley Hamner for conversations about leadership, strategy, culture, and everything small business.

Subscribe, rate, and review the Above the Business Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.

Join the email newsletter and get Bradley's Friday email: https://www.blueprintos.com/newsletter/

As a father of four, and an owner of multiple businesses, Coach P is a big fan of systems and processes.  He believes we should have a plan for every scenario and constantly drive results through our team.

After years of trial and error, he realized the significance of team development.  Due to this, he created a program to drive consistent, high-level coaching to agencies across the country.

Connect with Bradley:

1-1 Game Plan Call: Get Above The Business. Think Like an Architect. Design The Blueprint. Ready to Design, Systematize, and Grow a $1m-$3m Business? Begin building your business blueprint when you schedule your Game Plan Call at https://blueprintos.com.

Bradley's company, BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks.

Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass or book your Game Plan Call when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About the Above the Business Podcast

The Above the Business Podcast helps small business owners get above the business, start thinking like an architect, and design the business blueprint so they can grow their business. Join host Bradley Hamner for conversations about leadership, strategy, culture, and everything small business.

Subscribe, rate, and review the Above the Business Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.

Join the email newsletter and get Bradley's Friday email: https://www.blueprintos.com/newsletter/

Connect with Bradley:

1-1 Game Plan Call: Get Above The Business. Think Like an Architect. Design The Blueprint. Ready to Design, Systematize, and Grow a $1m-$3m Business? Begin building your business blueprint when you schedule your Game Plan Call at https://blueprintos.com.

Bradley's company, BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks.

Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass or book your Game Plan Call when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About the Above the Business Podcast

The Above the Business Podcast helps small business owners get above the business, start thinking like an architect, and design the business blueprint so they can grow their business. Join host Bradley Hamner for conversations about leadership, strategy, culture, and everything small business.

Subscribe, rate, and review the Above the Business Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.

Join the email newsletter and get Bradley's Friday email: https://www.blueprintos.com/newsletter/

Over the past five years, Kairo Data has revolutionized the business acquisition landscape, serving more than 210 clients and connecting thousands to valuable opportunities. With an unparalleled database of over 18 million businesses, access to 4,000+ brokers, and a thriving network of over 1,000 industry professionals, Kairo Data has become the go-to resource for sourcing off-market businesses and facilitating seamless acquisitions.

Conner shares his unique approach to deal-making, from building trust-based relationships with sellers to leveraging innovative financing strategies. He also opens up about his personal journey of resilience, including overcoming brain tumors and brain surgery, all while leading the fastest-growing SMB acquisition platform in the U.S.

Whether you're a seasoned investor or just beginning your acquisition journey, this episode is packed with actionable insights on sourcing deals, negotiating effectively, and navigating the complex world of business acquisitions. Don’t miss this inspiring and educational conversation with Conner Young.

Connect with Bradley:

1-1 Game Plan Call: Get Above The Business. Think Like an Architect. Design The Blueprint. Ready to Design, Systematize, and Grow a $1m-$3m Business? Begin building your business blueprint when you schedule your Game Plan Call at https://blueprintos.com.

Bradley's company, BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks.

Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass or book your Game Plan Call when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About the Above the Business Podcast

The Above the Business Podcast helps small business owners get above the business, start thinking like an architect, and design the business blueprint so they can grow their business. Join host Bradley Hamner for conversations about leadership, strategy, culture, and everything small business.

Subscribe, rate, and review the Above the Business Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.

Join the email newsletter and get Bradley's Friday email: https://www.blueprintos.com/newsletter/

Connect with Bradley:

1-1 Game Plan Call: Get Above The Business. Think Like an Architect. Design The Blueprint. Ready to Design, Systematize, and Grow a $1m-$3m Business? Begin building your business blueprint when you schedule your Game Plan Call at https://blueprintos.com.

Bradley's company, BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks.

Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass or book your Game Plan Call when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About the Above the Business Podcast

The Above the Business Podcast helps small business owners get above the business, start thinking like an architect, and design the business blueprint so they can grow their business. Join host Bradley Hamner for conversations about leadership, strategy, culture, and everything small business.

Subscribe, rate, and review the Above the Business Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.

Join the email newsletter and get Bradley's Friday email: https://www.blueprintos.com/newsletter/

Connect with Bradley:

1-1 Game Plan Call: Begin building your business blueprint when you schedule your Game Plan Call at https://blueprintos.com.

Bradley's company, BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks.

Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass or book your Game Plan Call when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Connect with Muriel Wilkins

Website: MurielWilkins.com

Book: Leadership Unblocked - Available wherever books are sold

LinkedIn: Muriel Wilkins

Instagram: @CoachMurielWilkins

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

About the Above the Business Podcast

The Above the Business Podcast helps small business owners get above the business, start thinking like an architect, and design the business blueprint so they can grow their business. Join host Bradley Hamner for conversations about leadership, strategy, culture, and everything small business.

Subscribe, rate, and review the Above the Business Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.

Actionable Takeaways

1. Stop being the first point of contact for all problems in your organization.
2. Implement the 1-3-1 framework with your team starting today.
3. Train your team to be resourceful before coming to you.
4. When you do provide answers, explain your reasoning to build their capability.
5. Remove the "Chief Problem Solver" hat from your leadership closet entirely.

Connect with Bradley:

1-1 Game Plan Call: Begin building your business blueprint when you schedule your Game Plan Call at https://blueprintos.com.

Bradley's company, BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks.

Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass or book your Game Plan Call when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Thanks to our sponsors...

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

In this episode, Bradley Hamner sits down with Claude Silver, the world's first Chief Heart Officer and the number two executive at VaynerX to Gary Vaynerchuk. Claude shares her unconventional journey from New York to Santa Fe to San Francisco, London, and back to New York, and how these experiences shaped her approach to leadership and human-centered business culture.

As the author of the forthcoming book "Be Yourself at Work: The Groundbreaking Power of Showing Up, Standing Out, and Leading from the Heart," Claude debunks the myth that authenticity is a weakness in the workplace and shares practical insights on building psychologically safe, high-performing teams.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Claude's Origin Story.
• Building Authentic Workplace Culture.
• Leadership and Vulnerability.
• Hiring for Culture Fit.
• Performance and Empathy.
• Remote and Hybrid Work Considerations.

Connect With Claude Silver

Get your copy of Claude's new book, "Be Yourself At Work: The Groundbreaking Power of Showing Up, Standing Out, and Leading from the Heart" at https://beyourselfbook.com/

Email: claude@claudesilver.com

Website: ClaudeSilver.com

Connect With Us

• Get the newsletter every Friday: https://BlueprintOS.com/assets
• Subscribe on YouTube for video episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@_abovethebusiness
• New episodes drop every Monday & Friday.

If you found value in this episode, share it with just one other business owner who might benefit. Remember—building a community happens one person at a time. Subscribe, like, and comment with your biggest takeaway from this episode!

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

Key Takeaways

The Power of One-at-a-Time Growth

• Building a business community requires focusing on individual customer relationships.
• Every sale, lead, and customer interaction matters.
• Growth from $30,000 to $40,000 per month happens one sale at a time.
• When looking at spreadsheets with 130 sales targets, remember each represents a real person whose life you're impacting.

Actionable Business Strategy

Bradley recommends scheduling a thinking time session to ask yourself two critical questions:

1. How can I help my team realize that every lead, prospect, and customer interaction matters?
2. How can I ensure we have a very simple customer journey for people to follow?

About the Show

The Above the Business Podcast helps small business owners get above—not just in or on—their business so they can think like an architect. Just as architects use blueprints, Bradley believes every small business should have a blueprint for success.

Resources Mentioned

BlueprintOS.com - Book a game plan call to:

• Discover where your business is currently.
• Map out where you want to go.
• Create a stage-based blueprint for your business growth.

Connect With Us

• Get the newsletter every Friday: https://BlueprintOS.com/assets
• Subscribe on YouTube for video episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@_abovethebusiness
• New episodes drop every Monday & Friday.

If you found value in this episode, share it with just one other business owner who might benefit. Remember—building a community happens one person at a time. Subscribe, like, and comment with your biggest takeaway from this episode!

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

Today on the podcast, Ron Alford joins Bradley to discuss leadership, vision, and mindset of an owner. Ron is a Senior Partner, Vice President of Recruiting, and Executive Coach for Southwestern Consulting.

What if the secret to business success isn't just about strategy, but about getting your head AND heart right before you even open your laptop? In this powerful episode, Ron Alford—a 32-year veteran of Southwestern Consulting who's coached more top 1% producers than anyone in the company's 150+ year history—reveals why mindset is truly "the beginning and the end" of everything we do. From his unconventional start selling books door-to-door instead of joining the Marine Corps, to his current role transforming businesses and leaders worldwide, Ron shares battle-tested wisdom on crafting crystal-clear vision, leading remote teams authentically, navigating difficult conversations, and why "our endurance in life is tied directly to the clarity of our vision." Whether you're crushing your goals or facing a bumpy road heading into 2026, this conversation will challenge you to slow down to speed up, move from anxiety to impact, and remember that true wealth isn't measured in trophies—it's measured in the lives you touch. Get ready for a masterclass in servant leadership that will shift how you show up every single day.

With over 32 years with the Southwestern Family of Companies, Ron has an extraordinary track record in sales and leadership development. He is a company record holder, having personally achieved the highest level of sales 70 times with Southwestern Advantage, and is a leadership record holder, coaching and training more top 1% producers than any other manager since Southwestern Advantage was founded in 1868.

Connect with Ron Alford and Southwestern Consulting

Website: southwesternconsulting.com

Services Offered:

• One-on-one Sales, Leadership, and Executive Coaching (12+ month programs).
• Team Training and Workshops.
• Keynote Speaking.

Special Offer: Tell Southwestern Consulting about your needs and get started with a free consultation. Whether you're looking to increase sales, improve time management, develop leadership skills, or enhance your team's performance, their certified coaches can create a personalized plan tailored to your goals.

Visit southwesternconsulting.com or check out their coaching programs at southwesternconsulting.com/coaching,

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

In this episode, Bradley tackles the chaotic reality many small business owners face - constantly putting out fires and responding to urgent matters without making meaningful progress. He uses the metaphor of the arcade game "whack-a-mole" to describe how business owners jump from one issue to another, with problems popping up faster the better you get at handling them.

There's no perfect productivity system that works for everyone, but these sustainable principles help you decide whether you should even be playing the game of whack-a-mole in the first place.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

Chad breaks down the critical mindset shifts founder-led businesses must make to scale sustainably: accepting 70-80% quality from your team, transitioning from seller to sales leader, and learning when to hire your second-in-command (hint: probably later than you think). He shares real numbers from clients growing from $3M to $7M revenue, including how to allocate your marketing budget across channels, why Reddit matters for AI-driven discovery, and which metrics actually move the needle.

You'll learn why vision "leaks" without constant reinforcement, how to avoid drowning in data by focusing on just three KPIs, and why tracking lead measures beats obsessing over revenue numbers. Plus: the Slack rule that stopped execution chaos and why your next hire should probably come from within.

If you're a founder feeling the friction between doing the work and leading the company, this conversation will show you exactly what needs to shift—and how to make it happen.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

Thinking Time:

1. What business owner skills do you currently possess?
2. Where are you deficient and need development?

Consider areas like team leadership, financial management, or marketing and sales where you might need growth.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

Bradley sits down with Dr. Ned Hallowell, a New York Times bestselling author who has written over 20 books on psychological topics. Dr. Hallowell's groundbreaking Distraction series, which began with Driven to Distraction (co-authored with Dr. John Ratey in 1994), sparked a revolution in how we understand ADHD—and that conversation remains just as relevant today.

The Hidden Signs You Might Be Missing

In this episode, Bradley and Dr. Hallowell dive into the telltale signs that often go unrecognized: unexplained underperformance despite your best efforts, constant "if only" thoughts that keep you stuck in regret cycles, and an inability to stay focused on work you find too simple or routine. If these experiences sound all too familiar, Dr. Hallowell recommends pursuing a medical diagnosis—not as a label, but as a pathway to understanding and optimization.

The Elusive "State of Flow"

One of the most powerful concepts they explore is the "state of flow"—those magical moments and hours when you're firing on all cylinders and deeply productive. For many adults with ADHD, accessing this state feels frustratingly out of reach, leaving them unable to achieve goals they know they're capable of reaching.

The Strengths Within the Difference

But here's the good news that remains as true now as ever: ADHD and other forms of neurodiversity don't need to hinder your goals. Dr. Hallowell's mission is to educate and celebrate these differences, highlighting the unique strengths they can provide. By breaking down barriers of stigma and misunderstanding, he shows how all of us benefit from the cognitive diversity in our teams and communities.

Whether you're an entrepreneur struggling to understand your own brain, or a leader looking to better support neurodivergent team members, this conversation offers insights that can transform how you work and lead.

Learn more about Dr. Hallowell and his work at https://drhallowell.com/

This episode of The Above the Business Podcast continues to offer timeless wisdom for business owners navigating the intersection of neurodiversity and entrepreneurship.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

Take this podcast for example: When we started in 2019, hitting 500 episodes seemed impossible. But consistency over time creates compound results that feel sudden but aren't.

The Solution:

Give strategies minimum 90 days, often 6-12 months before measuring success. Your constraint isn't trying enough things—it's not giving the right things enough time.

Your Challenge:

What's the one thing you've been wanting to quit on that maybe needs more time?

📌 Ready to identify what deserves your long-term commitment?

Book a Blueprint Game Plan call at blueprintos.com to map your Point A (where you are), Point B (where you're going), and the Plan to get there—then stick with it long enough to get noticed.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

"Working above the business is understanding that whatever we do, whatever business you have, we're impacting people, we're impacting employees, we're impacting customers, and we're impacting the communities in which we serve."

Bruce Temkin is a pioneer in human experience management and trusted executive advisor. He helped define the fields of Customer Experience, Employee Experience, and Experience Management, reshaping how organizations serve their most important stakeholders. Bruce founded the Qualtrics XM Institute, co-founded the Customer Experience Professionals Association, led Temkin Group, and was Forrester Research's most-read analyst for 13 consecutive quarters.

Four Core Leadership Behaviors Bruce Teaches

1. Guide with purpose.
2. Embrace your values.
3. Cultivate lasting trust.
4. Act with empathy.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

Three Practical Steps to Become the Business Architect

1. Get Above the Business

• Establish a cadence of reflection.

Weekly Planning: Sunday night sessions (30 minutes to 1 hour)

• Reflect on the previous week.
• Plan for the upcoming week.

Quarterly Reviews: Deep reflection sessions

• What went well?
• What didn't go well?
• What lessons were learned?
• How to apply insights moving forward.

2. Think Like an Architect

• Step back from day-to-day operations.
• Gain perspective (like seeing from an airplane).
• Focus on intentional design rather than reactive problem-solving.

3. Design the Blueprint

• Create a clear plan for your business.
• Use this blueprint to guide decision-making and team direction.
• Build your business by design, not by accident.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

In this powerful episode, Jeffrey and Bradley explore the foundational belief system that separates successful salespeople from those who struggle. The key insight? You must genuinely believe in what you're selling. If you don't truly think your product or service will improve people's lives, your motivation and effectiveness will inevitably suffer.

They also dive deep into the critical importance of referrals in today's sales landscape. While you may have heard this discussed before, when one of the world's leading sales authorities emphasizes it, it's worth your full attention! Referrals remain the highest-quality leads available because the referred prospect already shares the same belief in your offering that you and your advocate do.

Jeffrey Gitomer continues to be a creative, cutting-edge thought leader whose expertise in sales, customer loyalty, and personal development maintains its world-renowned status. His insightful, humorous, and direct approach resonates powerfully in corporate environments globally. His audiences benefit from real-world sales strategies and leave with immediately actionable advice they can implement from day one.

Discover all of Jeffrey's current resources and latest insights at www.gitomer.com

The main updates I made:

• Changed "This week" to "This episode" and "returns to join" to indicate it's a recast.
• Updated "today's episode" to "this powerful episode."
• Refreshed language while maintaining the core message.
• Added "in today's sales landscape" to make the referral discussion feel current.
• Updated the bio section to present tense while acknowledging his continued leadership.
• Made the call-to-action more current with "current resources and latest insights."

Join Bradley for The Quarterly September 23rd, 2025...

The Quarterly is a business planning workshop. We help business owners make plans for the next three months. Our goal is to help you go from doing all the work yourself to building a business that runs without you. Save your seat here: https://quarterly.blueprintos.com

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

The Core Framework: Make It Simple → Make It a System → Scale

This sequential approach prevents businesses from scaling complexity instead of scaling simplicity, avoiding burnout and inefficiency.

Upcoming Event: The Quarterly Q3 - Q4 Planning

Don't forget to register for Bradley's quarterly planning event for small business owners! Join him on Tuesday, September 23rd from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Central Time to reflect on Q3 and plan for a fantastic Q4. Register at https://www.blueprintos.com/assets.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

Bradley admits this was "by far the most nervous I have ever been on a podcast" - and for good reason. General McChrystal literally reported to the President of the United States and is considered one of America's greatest military leaders. Despite Bradley's nerves, General McChrystal couldn't have been more kind and gracious throughout the interview.

About General McChrystal:

Retired four-star general Stanley A. McChrystal has lived a life associated with the deadly risks of combat. Called "one of America's greatest warriors" by Secretary of Defense Robert Gates, he's a transformational leader who revolutionized modern warfare by leading a comprehensive counter-terrorism organization that fused intelligence and operations.

Special Announcement:

Don't forget to register for Bradley's quarterly planning event for small business owners! Join him on Tuesday, September 23rd from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Central Time to reflect on Q3 and plan for a fantastic Q4. Register at https://www.blueprintos.com/assets.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

Bradley shares, "I think for many entrepreneurs, a two to three million dollar business that's generating 20 to 30 percent net profit is quite frankly the dream."

For many entrepreneurs, a $2-3 million business generating 20-30% net profit ($400K-$900K annually) plus reasonable salary represents the dream outcome. This level provides:

• Private schools for children.
• Luxury cars and great vacations.
• Overall financial freedom.
• Work-life balance and meaningful work.

While Hormozi sees the $1-3M range as a challenge to overcome, Bradley positions it as potentially a destination to embrace - a profitable, sustainable business that aligns with personal goals and desired lifestyle.

Join Bradley for The Quarterly September 23rd, 2025...

The Quarterly is a business planning workshop. We help business owners make plans for the next three months. Our goal is to help you go from doing all the work yourself to building a business that runs without you. Save your seat here: https://quarterly.blueprintos.com

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

Self-Understanding Framework

Margaret's six key questions for deeper self-reflection:

1. Who and whose thinking has influenced you as a leader?
2. What situations and events have shaped you?
3. What are your definitions of success (not society's or your parents')?
4. What are your core values and how do they show up?
5. How well do you understand your emotions and how they appear to others?
6. What feedback have you received over time?

Margaret's message aligns perfectly with first principle of Bradley's business architect framework: "Lead Yourself First." The conversation reinforces that before we can effectively lead others, we must first understand and manage ourselves - bridging the gap between our good intentions and our actual behaviors. Check out this framework and some practical tools for business owners when you create your free profile and join the BlueprintOS community on Circle. Click here to access: https://blueprintos.circle.so/join?invitation_token=218b50f95cf795deb95357f7045d6eaa4bf5ba49-a026dfd1-8e3a-41f9-aa77-fccb7d52c0e3

Margaret C. Andrews is a seasoned executive, academic leader, speaker, and instructor at Harvard University. She created and teaches leadership courses and professional development programs at Harvard, including the most popular executive program offered at Harvard. She is also the founder of the MYLO Center, a private leadership development firm.

Her clients include Amazon, Citi, Continental, Walmart, Wayfair, United Nations.

Connect with Margaret C. Andrews

Website: margaretandrews.com

LinkedIn: @margaretcandrews

Book: "Manage Yourself to Lead Others: Why Great Leadership Begins with Self-Understanding" Available wherever books are sold starting September 16th.

Join Bradley for The Quarterly September 23rd, 2025...

The Quarterly is a business planning workshop. We help business owners make plans for the next three months. Our goal is to help you go from doing all the work yourself to building a business that runs without you. Save your seat here: https://quarterly.blueprintos.com

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

Lifestyle Business vs. Performance Business

Performance Business: Revenue-focused ($10M-$100M+), built to sell, often requires outside investment, 30+ team members.

Lifestyle Business: Built around the Four F's, $1-3M profitable revenue range, small team, owner-controlled.

How can you define your lifestyle business? Find a quiet space (coffee shop recommended) and journal on:

• What does fun look like in your business?
• How do you define freedom for your life?
• What flexibility do you need?
• What's your personal financial success number?

Join Bradley for The Quarterly September 23rd, 2025...

The Quarterly is a business planning workshop. We help business owners make plans for the next three months. Our goal is to help you go from doing all the work yourself to building a business that runs without you. Save your seat here: https://quarterly.blueprintos.com

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

Key Takeaways & Action Items

1. Lifestyle Design - Build businesses around your desired lifestyle, not the other way around.
2. AI Adoption - Start experimenting with AI tools now; the learning curve is worth the investment.
3. Focus Strategy - Limit priorities to 3 key items per 90-day cycle for maximum impact.
4. Team Development - Invest heavily in systems and team building for true business freedom.
5. Mindset Foundation - Personal development and morning routines are critical to professional success.

Resources & Contact Information

Agency Coach AI

• Website: agencycoachai.com
• Text "AI" to: 816-727-7610
• Launch Date: August 21st (out NOW)

Connect with Michael Weaver

• LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram
• Host of "The Insurance Buzz" podcast (#2 ranked insurance podcast for 2025) https://www.youtube.com/playlist?reload=9&list=PLKFwk1109tsycme25jikxtojl-6-ucTd2

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

For entrepreneurs: The secret of success is to see all the marvels of your vivid vision while never forgetting the practical realities of running your business.

In this special episode, Bradley shares his powerful presentation from the 2025 Two-Day MBA event on "The Oil and Spoon Mindset." Drawing from Paulo Coelho's The Alchemist, Bradley explores how successful entrepreneurs must balance big vision with practical execution - carrying both the "oil" (operational focus) and appreciating the "palace" (grand vision) simultaneously.

The Vision Foundation:

• Everything is downhill from your vision - Every business decision flows from the clarity of your vision.
• Essential components: Dream outcome, 3-year vision, 1-year objectives, 90-day priorities.
• Most entrepreneurs struggle with the "vision paradox" - carrying big dreams while facing daily frustrations.

Before you can master the oil and spoon mindset, you need to know where your business currently stands. Are you carrying too much oil and missing the palace? Or dreaming big without operational focus?

Take the Business Architect Scorecard and discover exactly which areas of your business need attention to achieve sustainable growth.

Get your free assessment at: scale.blueprintos.com

This comprehensive scorecard will help you:

• Identify gaps between your vision and execution.
• Understand which operational areas need strengthening.
• Create a clear roadmap for balanced growth.
• Build the foundation for carrying both oil and palace effectively.

Don't let the vision paradox hold your business back. Take the scorecard today and start building a business that scales with both clarity and operational excellence.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

But here's what takes real humility to admit: Sometimes we're the ones inadvertently creating the fires we're so heroically putting out.

You'd never intentionally start fires in your business just to be the hero. But when we overcomplicate things, we create problems that only we know how to solve. 

We become the only one with the "proper fire extinguisher equipment.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

Bradley uses the powerful analogy of being in an airplane at 30,000 feet, where perspective shifts dramatically and you can see your place in the world differently. This elevated view represents the mindset shift needed for effective business leadership.

Becoming the Architect of Your Business

• Transitioning from "Rainmaker" to "Architect" identity.
• The importance of designing and systemizing your business for growth.
• Creating emotional detachment while maintaining strategic oversight.

The Importance of Having a Business Blueprint

Bradley emphasizes that successful architects use blueprints, and business owners should too. Key questions to ask yourself:

• Do you have a clear business blueprint you're following?
• Could you print it off or email it as a PDF?
• Is it organized in a way that allows you to easily categorize new ideas and strategies?
• Does it include your operating system, roadmap, and personal leadership development track?

Upcoming Events

Two-Day MBA: The Mindset of an Entrepreneur

Tuesday & Wednesday, August 12th & 13th, 2025, from 10a - 12p CST each day.

• Register: MBA.blueprintos.com
• Featured Speakers: Chad Cannon, David Peterson, Bill Coletti, and Bradley Hamner
• Focus: Different perspectives on entrepreneurial mindset.
• Replay Access: Email support@blueprintos.com

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

The Bottom Line: When you make changes or set new goals in business, it will ultimately start off rocky. But if you persevere through the frustration and challenges, you will win.

Ready to master this entrepreneurial mindset and outlast business challenges? Join us at the 2 Day MBA - our upcoming live event! Register at https://mba.blueprintos.com

Upcoming Event Announcement

Mindset of the Entrepreneur Workshop

• Dates: August 12-13 (Tuesday-Wednesday).
• Time: 10 AM - 12 PM Central.
• Format: Virtual, two-day event.
• Cost: Free.
• Registration: mba.blueprintos.com

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

Work-life balance is a myth. We need a better, more sustainable way to achieve our life and work goals through what Kathy calls "Sustainable Ambition" - a transformative method that shows you how to direct your ambitions wisely.

You don't have to choose between ambitious goals and a fulfilling life. With the right framework, you can dream big, shape the life and work you want, and thrive - all while maintaining your well-being and what matters most to you.

You don't have to choose between ambitious goals and a fulfilling life. With the right framework, you can dream big, shape the life and work you want, and thrive - all while maintaining your well-being and what matters most to you.

Kathy Oneto Contact Information

• Website: sustainableambition.com
• Email: kathyoneto@sustainableambition.com
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kathy-oneto
• YouTube: bit.ly/sa-ko-youtube

The Bottom Line: A small business cannot grow beyond the mindset, skillset, and toolset of its founder - at least in the revenue ranges most small businesses operate in ($300K-$3M annually).

Bradley shares the story of client "Tom" who recently crossed the $1M annual revenue milestone. Tom's leadership team immediately recognized they needed to "become the business owners necessary to have a three-million-dollar business" before attempting to scale further.

Upcoming Event Announcement

Mindset of the Entrepreneur Workshop

• Dates: August 12-13 (Tuesday-Wednesday).
• Time: 10 AM - 12 PM Central.
• Format: Virtual, two-day event.
• Cost: Free.
• Registration: mba.blueprintos.com

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

His new book, "Systems Champion," isn't another guide for overwhelmed entrepreneurs. Instead, it's for that special person on your team who secretly loves creating checklists and gets excited about process improvements (yes, they exist!).

Why Systems Always Get Pushed to Tomorrow

David nails it: systems are "always important but never urgent." Sound familiar? Most business owners are visionary types who'd rather brainstorm the next big idea than document how to answer the phone properly. That's where systems champions come in - they're the bridge between your brilliant ideas and actually getting stuff done consistently.

What Makes Someone a Natural Systems Champion

Forget looking for years of experience. David says hunt for the young, hungry, curious team members who naturally create their own checklists. They're comfortable with technology, love figuring out how things work, and don't roll their eyes when you mention "process improvement."

The AI Game-Changer That Changes Everything

Here's the mind-blowing part: ChatGPT can now turn any video recording into instant process documentation. David's team literally went from needing 7 people to document processes to doing it instantly with AI. We're talking about eliminating weeks of work in minutes.

The "First Dancer" Secret

You know that viral video of the lone dancer who starts a movement? That's exactly how systems adoption works. The business owner has to be willing to look silly being the "first dancer," and the systems champion becomes the crucial "first follower" who makes everyone else think it's cool to join in.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

The phrase "genius with a thousand hands" describes smart business owners who are running around trying to handle everything themselves. Bradley transforms this into the octopus metaphor, where each arm represents a different role or responsibility in the business. The solution? Cut off those arms one at a time through strategic delegation and hiring.

The Replacement Ladder Framework

Based on Dan Martell's concept from "Buy Back Your Time," this framework provides a strategic sequence for removing yourself from business operations:

Admin Tasks - Get an Executive Assistant.

Delivery - Remove yourself from service delivery.

Marketing - Delegate marketing responsibilities.

Sales - Step away from sales activities.

Leadership - Eventually replace yourself in leadership roles.

Stop being the genius octopus with a thousand arms. Use the replacement ladder framework to systematically "cut off" your arms by delegating responsibilities in the right order, allowing you to build a business that runs without you being involved in every aspect of daily operations.

Stepping away from being the "genius octopus" starts with your mindset. Join Bradley, Bill Coletti, Chad Cannon, and David Peterson live for The 2 Day MBA: The Mindset of the Entrepreneur August 12th and 13th, 2025 when you register here: https://mba.blueprintos.com.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

Dan Martell is a serial entrepreneur, business coach, and author of "Buy Back Your Time." He runs one of the largest coaching organizations for software CEOs and acquires a software company every month. Despite running a $100+ million empire, he still travels 12 weeks a year with his family.

This episode features Dan Martell, who was a speaker at last year's 2 Day MBA event. You can register for this year's 2-day virtual event, "The Mindset Of the Entrepreneur," at https://mba.blueprintos.com

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

Thinking Time:

1. Where am I trying to push a rope in my business?
2. What feels hard right now?
3. What am I frustrated about in the business?
4. What fires do I feel like I need to continually put out?

Ever just wish someone could hand you a Blueprint to follow for your business?  Well, that’s what I’d like to give you.  Our Blueprint to design, systemize, and grow a profitable $1M+ business that runs without you.  

To get it, come to the Rainmaker to Architect WebClass. You can register at https://webclass.blueprintos.com

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

Mark C. Crowley is a pioneering leader and bestselling author leading a revolution in workplace leadership. With 25 years in the competitive financial services industry, he rose to national roles and was named Leader of the Year for his emotionally connected, heart-centered approach. His book "Lead from the Heart" (2011, second edition 2023) is now taught in eleven universities worldwide. His new book, "The Power of Employee Well-Being," will be released September 30, 2025.

Connect with Mark Crowley

• Website: markccrowley.com
• Book: "The Power of Employee Well-Being: Move Beyond Engagement to Build Flourishing Teams" Pre-order: https://markccrowley.com/the_power_of_employee_well-being/
• Previous Book: "Lead from the Heart" https://markccrowley.com/book-2/
• Podcast: "Lead from the Heart" (ranked in top 1.5% globally) Listen here: https://markccrowley.com/podcasts/

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

This episode concludes a multi-part series exploring the journey from Rainmaker to Architect in business ownership. Bradley breaks down the fundamental definitions and characteristics that distinguish these two business operating styles, providing clarity on concepts that form the foundation of sustainable business growth.

Join us for The 2 Day MBA August 12th-13th, 2025 when you save your seat at https://mba.blueprintos.com

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

In this interview, Bradley Hamner sat down with Weldon Long. Former prison inmate turned millionaire entrepreneur Weldon Long reveals the hidden prosperity system that transformed his life—and how you can use it too. In this powerful recast, discover the mental frameworks and daily practices that separate high achievers from everyone else.

You'll discover:

• The four-step success sequence that governs all achievement (thoughts → emotions → actions → results)
• How to engineer winning habits that compound over time
• The specific questions successful people ask themselves during daily reflection
• Why cognitive dissonance is your secret weapon for personal transformation
• How to harness laser focus and clear purpose to accelerate your results

Whether you're building a business, advancing your career, or just want to take control of your life, this episode gives you the exact blueprint Weldon used to go from rock bottom to the top.

Ready to align your entrepreneurial mindset? Join us for The 2 Day MBA on "The Mindset of the Entrepreneur" August 12th-13th 2025. Visit https://mba.blueprintos.com to register.

[This recast contains insights from our original conversation with Weldon Long, restructured to give you maximum value in minimum time.]

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

Most entrepreneurs don't realize that what makes you successful early on (being the go-to person for everything) becomes the bottleneck that limits growth. When you're the thoroughfare for all business decisions and operations, you'll eventually run out of time

While this may have worked in the early years of your business, Bradley has found that what can bring you to $200K-$500K revenue becomes unsustainable at higher levels

The Scaling Challenge

Business owners often think they just need to do more of what got them there. This leads to working longer hours: evenings, weekends, early mornings. You transition from occasional Friday afternoon work to constant availability. The reality: as a small business owner, you will run out of time

The Solution Framework

• Vision-driven approach: Have a clear picture of your dream outcome, one-year objectives, and 90-day priorities
• Recognition moment: When your goals are big enough, you'll realize you can't achieve them alone
• Identity shift: Move from being the "Rainmaker" to becoming the "Architect"

What is a Rainmaker? Everything runs through you; you're essential to every decision and operation. When you become an Architect, you design the systems and blueprint; you build the business to run without you.

In the next episode, Bradley will define the specific differences between "Rainmaker" and "Architect" roles.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Direct Clicks is built is by business owners, for business owners. They specialize in custom marketing solutions that deliver real results. From paid search campaigns to SEO and social media management, they provide the comprehensive digital marketing your business needs to grow. Here’s an exclusive offer for Above The Business listeners: Visit directclicksinc.com/abovethebusiness for a FREE marketing campaign audit. They’ll assess your website, social media, SEO, content, and paid advertising, then provide actionable recommendations. Plus, when you choose to partner with them, they’ll waive all setup fees.

In this episode of Above the Business, Bradley Hamner is sharing a fan favorite episode with David Jenyns, author of "Systemology." This episode serves as a perfect introduction to systems thinking, as Bradley prepares listeners for an upcoming episode featuring David's new book "Systems Champion." Listen for an in-depth discussion about building business systems that create freedom rather than constraint.

David shares his entrepreneurial journey from running various businesses including a rock and roll clothing franchise, video production company, and digital agency, to his breakthrough moment that led him to systemize his way out of day-to-day operations. The conversation addresses the common entrepreneurial paradox: starting a business for freedom but ending up trapped by it.

Key Topics Discussed

Overcoming the Systems Mindset Barrier

• Why entrepreneurs often resist systemization despite wanting freedom.
• The counterintuitive truth that systems create space for creativity, not stifle it.
• How David's video production business breakthrough showed him that processes. handle routine tasks, freeing up mental space for high-value creative work.

What Business Systems Actually Look Like

• Moving beyond the overwhelming "McDonald's manual" perception of systems.
• Starting simple with screen recordings, checklists, and basic documentation.
• Systems as iterative, living documents that evolve over time.
• The importance of seeing actual system examples to understand what's possible.

The Master Skill for Business Owners

• Every business problem is fundamentally a systems problem.
• Lead generation issues = need better lead generation systems.
• Sales problems = need better sales systems.
• Cash flow issues = need better finance management systems.
• Staff problems = need better recruitment and onboarding systems.

Getting Started: From Blank Cursor to Documentation

• Practical first steps for solo entrepreneurs vs. teams with 5+ people.
• The power of Loom recordings stored in organized Google Drive folders.
• Capturing current processes before optimizing (not aspirational systems).
• Applying the 80/20 rule to focus on essential systems first.

The Systems Champion Role

• Why successful businesses identify a dedicated systems champion.
• The systems champion as the "department head" for processes.
• How this person celebrates wins, supports team members, and keeps systems front-and-center.
• The business owner's role in leading and supporting (not abdicating responsibility).

Building Business Assets vs. Trading Time for Dollars

• Understanding systems as business assets that generate value without owner presence.
• The transition from working in the business to working on the business.
• Why business owners must invest time and resources upfront to build systematic foundations.

Guest Information

David Jenyns is based in Melbourne, Australia, and is the author of "Systemology." He helps business owners systematize their operations to create freedom and scalability. David has experience across multiple industries and is currently working on his upcoming book "Systems Champion," which focuses on the person who actually implements and drives systematic business documentation.

Connect with the Show

Bradley Hamner hosts Above The Business, empowering business owners to rise above daily operations and embrace strategic ownership. The show focuses on building businesses by design rather than accident.

This episode pairs perfectly with the upcoming episode on "Systems Champion" - make sure you subscribe on your favorite podcast player and stay tuned for more insights on systematic business growth.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

THE RAINMAKER:

• Everything runs through you - you're the bottleneck.
• Usually the top performer but also the biggest limitation.
• All decisions need your approval.
• Constantly firefighting (but you're better at starting fires than putting them out).
• Essential to daily operations - business fails without you.
• Involved in every aspect: sales, operations, customer service, marketing.
• Can hit $500K-$750K, maybe $1M, then you hit a wall.

The Octopus Analogy (from Marquez Brownlee):

"I was like a genius octopus with a thousand hands" - you need to systematically cut off arms one at a time:

• Customer service
• Fulfillment
• Lead handling
• Marketing functions
• Administrative tasks
• Payroll

THE ARCHITECT:

• Uses blueprints and systematic design thinking
• Asks "How can I be effective?" not "How can I do more?"
• Works above the business, not in daily operations
• Proactive rather than reactive
• Designs systems then designs themselves out of them
• Freedom and flexibility focused
• Has operating systems and blueprints in place

KEY COMPARISONS:

Rainmaker = Reactive, Essential, Bottleneck, Wings everything.

Architect = Proactive, System designer, Blueprint creator, Freedom-focused.

ACTION STEPS:

1. Acknowledge if you're the bottleneck.
2. Start systematically removing yourself from operations.
3. Document systems even when it feels like you should be doing other things.
4. Shift from "How can I do more?" to "How can I design this?"
5. Build blueprints, not just hustle harder.

RESOURCES:

blueprintos.com/blueprint - Discover Blueprint and resources for business owners.

This concludes Bradley's longest podcast series. Next episodes return to solo format before launching new series content.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Tom has condensed his considerable knowledge into five groundbreaking books:

Paychecks and Playchecks: Retirement Solutions for Life - This bestseller ranks in the top 1% of any book ever sold, making retirement planning accessible to millions.

Retirement Income Masters: Secrets of the Pros - A compilation of the very best practices from the top retirement experts across the country.

Paycheques and Playcheques: Retirement Solutions for Canadians - Bringing his expertise north of the border with solutions tailored for Canadian retirees.

Don't Worry, Retire Happy! Seven Steps to Retirement Security - Based on his popular Public Television Special that has reached over 80 million homes in the US and Canada.

Don't Worry, Retire Happy! Seven Steps to Retirement Security for Canadians - His most recent work, extending his proven methodology to Canadian audiences.

When you listen, you will discover Tom's proven framework for creating optimal retirement income streams, learn why traditional retirement advice often falls short, and understand how to apply military-grade planning principles to civilian retirement challenges. His ability to make the complex simple while maintaining scientific rigor makes this episode essential listening for anyone serious about retirement security.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Key Takeaways

The Dream Outcome Framework

A profitable, million-dollar-plus business that runs and grows without you

1. Profitable

• Minimum threshold: 10% net profit.
• Target range: 25% net profitability.
• Growth strategy: Some businesses can scale to 30% over 5 years (1% improvement annually).
• Why it matters: Profitability funds reinvestment for future growth (hiring, marketing, equipment, facilities).
• Key insight: "Profitability is a prerequisite for growth" - Craig Groeschel.

2. Million-Dollar Mark

• The reality: 91% of businesses never cross $1M in top-line revenue.
• Business survival: 96% don't see their 10th birthday.
• The advantage: Once you hit $1M, scaling to $2M happens in 25% of the time it took to reach the first million.
• Financial freedom: $1M business at 25% profit = $250K + your salary.

3. Runs and Grows Without You

• Foundation: Must run on an operating system outside of you.
• Test: Can you take a month-long trip to Europe without being tied to the business?
• Ultimate goal: Business doesn't just maintain - it actually grows while you're away.

Critical Business Insights

The Entrepreneurial Myth (E-Myth)

• Being great at your craft ≠ being great at business ownership.
• Examples: Great insurance agent ≠ great agency owner.
• The shift: Learn to be a business owner first, then you can master the technical side.

The North Star Concept

• Your dream outcome is something you navigate by, not necessarily to.
• Use it as directional guidance for decision-making.
• Break it down: 3-year goals → 1-year goals → 90-day actions.

Goal Setting Framework

1. Define your ultimate dream outcome.
2. Set 3-year targets.
3. Plan this year's objectives.
4. Focus on next 90 days.

BONUS: We are working through this LIVE on June 24th, 2025 at 10 AM CST and you can join us when you register at https://intensive.blueprintos.com

Reflection Questions

• What's YOUR specific dream outcome?
• Is it a revenue number? Profit target? Personal income goal?
• How much freedom and flexibility do you want?
• What would you add to or change about the standard framework?
• Why did you get into business in the first place?

Action Items

1. Get specific: Write down your actual dream outcome (avoid "I want more").
2. Set measurable targets: Include specific numbers for revenue, profit, and personal goals.
3. Plan backwards: From dream outcome → 3 years → 1 year → 90 days.
4. Assess current state: How profitable is your business right now?
5. System audit: What needs to change for your business to run without you?

Key Statistics

• 91% of businesses never cross $1M in revenue.
• 96% of businesses don't survive 10 years.
• Target profit margins: 10% minimum, 25% optimal.
• First million is always the hardest to achieve.

Quote of the Episode

"The reality is many of you didn't get in business to own your job. You got in it to own a business. Learning how to be a business owner is vastly different than learning how to be good at whatever it is that you do." - Bradley

Next Steps: Take 10 minutes today to define your specific dream outcome. Be detailed. Be ambitious. Then start planning backwards from there.

Connect: Join Bradley & business owners like you to strategize how to reach your dream outcome at our live workshop, The Quarterly Q2 ➡️ Q3, on June 24th at 10 AM CST when you register at https://intensive.blueprintos.com

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

In this episode, Bradley and Andrew discuss three major themes for insurance agency growth: audience building in the AI era, evolving marketing strategies, and solving industry staffing challenges. Andrew provides both high-level strategic insights and actionable tactics for immediate implementation.

Andrew emphasized the complexity of modern attribution: customers might see a referral, then a Facebook ad, then Google search before calling - making it difficult to track the true source of leads. He also references how his agency has implemented mandatory referral requests on every customer interaction, recognizing that referrals often don't get attributed correctly even when they drive significant business.

Actionable Takeaways

1. Implement Full-Funnel Marketing: Don't rely on single tactics - integrate calling, email, retargeting, and direct mail.
2. Focus on Local Audience Building: Invest in building authentic local presence and relationships.
3. Measure What Matters: Track both individual tactic performance and overall cost-per-acquisition.
4. Systematic Referral Requests: Make asking for referrals a standard part of every customer interaction.
5. Invest in Training: Focus on developing talent rather than just trying to hire experienced professionals.

Save your seat at The Quarterly on June 24th!

Ready to build your business by design? The Quarterly is a free, live Zoom workshop happening June 24th at 10 AM CST that's designed to give you the clarity and structure you need to move your business forward—without the usual overwhelm. Register For The Quarterly: Q1 ➡️ Q2

In just one 2-hour session, you'll wrap up Q2 with confidence, get your Q3 targets 50-75% DONE, and build serious momentum for the rest of the year. You'll also receive a comprehensive workbook packed with quarterly planning templates, time management tools, and an after-action review to keep you on track. Register For The Quarterly: Q1 ➡️ Q2

This isn't just another webinar—it's real, focused planning time using the BlueprintOS 5-step process that helps business owners like you create results. No fluff, no wasted time—just a game plan that works. Register For The Quarterly: Q1 ➡️ Q2 at https://quarterly.blueprintos.com.

Don't let another quarter slip by without intentional planning. Save your spot today at quarterly.blueprintos.com and take the next step toward becoming the architect of your business rather than just staying stuck as the rainmaker.

It's not too late to make the most of 2025.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Key Takeaways

1. An operating system is tangible, not conceptual - you should be able to point to it physically or digitally.
2. The transition from owner-as-OS to independent OS is crucial for scaling beyond $1M.
3. Documentation is essential - systems and processes must be written down and accessible.
4. The goal is a business that runs and grows without the owner - true independence.
5. This milestone represents "arriving" as the architect of your business rather than just the rainmaker.

The Scale Milestones Framework (S-C-A-L-E)

• S - Sustainable revenue (getting to $1M, then path to $3M).
• C - Consistent growth and profitability (Rule of 40).
• A - Away time (minimum 12 weeks off per year).
• L - Leverage (executive assistants and AI tools).
• E - Efficient operations with an OS.

Save your seat at The Quarterly on June 24th!

Ready to build your business by design? The Quarterly is a free, live Zoom workshop happening June 24th at 10 AM CST that's designed to give you the clarity and structure you need to move your business forward—without the usual overwhelm. Register For The Quarterly: Q1 ➡️ Q2

In just one 2-hour session, you'll wrap up Q2 with confidence, get your Q3 targets 50-75% DONE, and build serious momentum for the rest of the year. You'll also receive a comprehensive workbook packed with quarterly planning templates, time management tools, and an after-action review to keep you on track. Register For The Quarterly: Q1 ➡️ Q2

This isn't just another webinar—it's real, focused planning time using the BlueprintOS 5-step process that helps business owners like you create results. No fluff, no wasted time—just a game plan that works. Register For The Quarterly: Q1 ➡️ Q2 at https://quarterly.blueprintos.com.

Don't let another quarter slip by without intentional planning. Save your spot today at quarterly.blueprintos.com and take the next step toward becoming the architect of your business rather than just staying stuck as the rainmaker.

It's not too late to make the most of 2025.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Autopilot Recruiting helps small business owners solve their staffing challenges by taking the stress out of hiring. Their dedicated recruiters work on your behalf every single business day - optimizing your applicant tracking system, posting job listings, and sourcing candidates through social media and local communities. With their continuous, hands-off recruiting approach, you can save time, reduce hiring costs, and receive pre-screened candidates, all without paying any hiring fees or commissions.

More money & more freedom: that’s what Autopilot Recruiting help business owners achieve. Visit https://www.autopilotrecruiting.com/ and don't forget to mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast.

Seth Greene is the founder of Market Domination LLC, a direct response marketing agency he's operated for 18 years. He co-hosts the Sharkpreneur podcast with Kevin from Shark Tank and transformed his own career using Dan Kennedy's marketing principles, going from last-ranked advisor at a Fortune 500 company to top 30 nationwide in just two years.

Seth emphasizes that successful marketing starts with a fundamental principle from Dan Kennedy: "The business that can spend the most to acquire a customer wins." This shifts focus from traditional brand building to measurable, direct response marketing that delivers trackable results.

Understanding Your Target Market

The conversation highlights the critical importance of knowing where your audience spends their time. Seth advises business owners to "fish where the fish are" by selecting marketing platforms based on actual audience demographics rather than personal preferences or popular trends.

Self-Liquidating Offers (SLOs)

One of the most powerful strategies discussed is the concept of getting paid to acquire customers through Self-Liquidating Offers. This approach allows businesses to offset customer acquisition costs while building their customer base.

The Trust Challenge

Seth addresses the modern marketing challenge of decreasing consumer trust and longer sales cycles. He stresses the importance of middle-funnel nurturing processes and fixing operational issues before scaling lead generation efforts.

Lead Magnets That Work

The discussion covers creating effective lead magnets that are "useful but incomplete" - providing genuine value while naturally leading prospects toward your paid offerings.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

The Three Dimensions of Business Ownership

Bradley references Michael Gerber's "The E-Myth" and expands on the concept with three dimensions:

• In the business - Day-to-day operations
• On the business - Strategic planning and development
• Above the business - Higher-level perspective and vision

Executive Assistants: From Luxury to Necessity

Bradley's Core Philosophy:

"If you don't have an EA, you are one and you didn't start your business to be an EA."

Recommended Resources

• "Buy Back Your Time" by Dan Martell - Bradley's top 5 most recommended books
• "The E-Myth" by Michael Gerber - Referenced as inspiration for the podcast name
• Various AI tools and subscriptions (Bradley stays current with cutting-edge options)

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Zach Mercurio is a researcher and consultant who studies what makes work meaningful. He spends 30% of his time conducting research at the Center for Meaning and Purpose and the rest learning from leaders and teaching others how to create cultures where people matter.

In this episode, you'll hear Bradley and Zach discuss...

The Foundation: Caring About vs. Caring For

• The Critical Difference: Many organizations say they care about their people, but caring for someone requires getting up close and truly understanding them
• The Trust Connection: It's nearly impossible to care about anything if you don't feel cared for first
• No Shortcuts: There are no shortcuts to building trust, engagement, or motivation - it requires time and attention

The Three Core Skills for Making People Matter

1. Noticing People

• Beyond Knowing: You can know someone well but fail to notice when they're struggling
• Practical System: Write down one thing you heard each team member talk about on Friday, then follow up on Monday with a 3-minute check-in
• Better Questions: Instead of "How are you?" ask "What has your attention today?" or "What have you been thinking about?"

2. Affirming People

• More Than Appreciation: Affirmation shows people how their uniqueness makes a unique difference
• Specific Evidence: Give indisputable evidence of their significance rather than general praise
• The Four Unique Gifts: Every person brings strengths, purpose, perspective, and wisdom to your organization

3. Showing People They're Needed

• Ensure every person knows how their work is indispensable and non-disposable
• Connect individual contributions to the bigger vision and impact

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Key Topics Covered

The Journey from Rainmaker to Architect

Bradley revisits the core concept driving this series - the evolution from being the rainmaker of your business to becoming its architect. This week's milestone focuses on how much time you can step away from day-to-day operations.

The 12-Week Challenge

Bradley encourages business owners to take at least 12 weeks off per year. Before you panic, he breaks it down: Saturdays and Sundays count, plus natural holidays like Memorial Day, Labor Day, Christmas, and that week between Christmas and New Year's. When you do the math (12 x 7 = 84 days), it's more achievable than it initially sounds.

The Entrepreneurial Paradox

Bradley gets real about the irony many business owners face - we start businesses for freedom and flexibility, but often end up trading "the 9 to 5 for the 5 to 9." He admits this is a personal challenge, acknowledging his own love for business while recognizing the importance of balance.

Personal vs. Professional Balance

Bradley shares his perspective on balancing entrepreneurship with family life, mentioning his kids (ages 14 and 10) and the different seasons of life that affect how much time away becomes important. He respectfully disagrees with some popular business personalities who advocate for all-work approaches, noting the difference in life circumstances.

The Emotional Decision

Rather than citing statistics from Gallup or other research, Bradley frames taking time away as an emotional decision that varies based on where you are in life. He emphasizes that different seasons require different approaches to work-life balance.

Bradley challenges listeners to:

1. Define what a day off looks like for you
2. Calculate how many days off you took in 2024
3. Set intentions for how many days you want to take off in 2025
4. Track your progress (since no one else is holding you accountable)

The Bigger Picture

The host reinforces that if you can't accomplish everything you need in a 40-week work year, it's time to question what you're building the business for. The goal isn't just to reach a million in revenue or achieve consistent growth and profitability - it's to create a life where you're not defined solely by your work.

Next Week Preview

Episode four of the Scale Milestones series is coming up next week, continuing the journey through the five milestones that spell out SCALE. Subscribe to catch our biweekly episodes!

The Bottom Line

Getting to $1M is milestone #1 (Sustainable Revenue), but milestone #2 requires that million-dollar business to maintain Consistent Growth & Profitability. It's the balance between these two that separates true business architects from one-time winners.

Next week: Bradley reveals the "A" in the SCALE milestones.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Melody Wilding is a professor of human behavior at Hunter College and award-winning executive career coach. Recently named one of Insider's "most innovative career coaches," her unique approach combines her background as a therapist and emotions researcher with evidence-based neuroscience and psychology. Her expertise in professional development has been featured in major publications including the Financial Times, CNBC, Harvard Business Review, and Bloomberg News.

The conversation explores how managing up has evolved in today's work environment, including:

• Navigating return-to-office mandates and flexibility conversations.
• Working effectively across generational differences.
• Building relationships in an "always on" work culture.
• Leveraging emotional intelligence in an AI-driven future.

Connect with Melody Wilding

• Book: "Managing Up: How to Get What You Need from the People in Charge" (Crown Currency, March 2025).
• Previous Work: "Trust Yourself".
• Academic Role: Professor of Human Behavior at Hunter College.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

The Key Insight: Growth Eats Profit

Bradley breaks down a crucial misconception many business owners have: Growth does not equal profit. Growth eats profit.

Just like pushing harder on the gas pedal burns more fuel, aggressive growth requires more investment in two key areas:

• Team capacity (hiring more people)
• Marketing dollars

While growth can lead to more profitability long-term, in the short term it creates downward pressure on your margins.

The Rule of 40

Bradley introduces a simple framework to balance growth and profitability. The Rule of 40 is straightforward math:

Year-over-year revenue growth % + Net profit % = 40 or above

Real-World Examples:

• Venture-backed startups: 100% growth + (-60%) profitability = 40 (works for them because they have financial backers)
• Conservative client: 52% profitability + 2% growth = 54 (now reinvesting to grow faster)
• Aggressive growth client: 30% growth + 10% profitability = 40

Bradley's Guidelines

Minimum thresholds: Never architect your business for less than 10% growth or less than 10% profitability.

The "perfect" Rule of 40 number: Actually 51, not 40

• Target 25% net profit (fantastic profitability range)
• Target 26% growth (doubles your company every 3 years)

Bradley shares how 26% compounded growth works: A $2.5M company becomes $5M in 3 years, then $10M in the next 3 years - realistic but ambitious growth.

The Bottom Line

Getting to $1M is milestone #1 (Sustainable Revenue), but milestone #2 requires that million-dollar business to maintain Consistent Growth & Profitability. It's the balance between these two that separates true business architects from one-time winners.

Next week: Bradley reveals the "A" in the SCALE milestones.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Make sure you mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast to get 50% off your one time onboarding fee!

Key Topics Discussed

• Identifying and recruiting sales talent that will thrive in today's market.
• Practical tools for sales management and team development.
• Strategies from Steve's best-selling book "Can They Sell."
• How to adapt your sales approach in an evolving business environment.
• The importance of continuous training and development for sales teams.

About Steve Suggs

Steve brings four decades of sales expertise as a successful producer, manager, author, speaker, and consultant. After graduating with a business degree from Lipscomb University, Steve spent 15 years at Northwestern Mutual as an MDRT producer and Sales Leader before co-founding Sales Manage Solutions, where he's been a partner for the past 25 years.

Steve's consulting work includes conducting up to 50 calls weekly with agents, helping them hire and develop exceptional sales and service teams. His approach combines proven experience with practical application—every strategy he shares is one he implements daily.

Connect with Steve

• Sales Manage Solutions website: https://salesmanage.com/
• LinkedIn: Steve Suggs: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevesuggs/
• Book: "Can They Sell" https://salesmanage.com/sms-tools/can-they-sell/

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Don’t forget to visit club.capital and mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast!

The SCALE Milestones

Bradley introduces the five key milestones you can check off along your journey - what he calls the SCALE milestones. Today's focus is on the first letter: S for Sustainable Revenue.

Bradley shares how this framework came about when a podcast host asked him how someone knows they've become the architect of their business. That question led him to develop these tangible checkpoints.

Milestone #1: Sustainable Revenue

The hard facts Bradley shares:

• 96% of small businesses don't reach their 10th birthday.
• 91-96% never cross $1M in annual revenue.

Bradley explains that reaching $1M is more than just bragging rights - it's a crucial threshold where the game changes. He's observed businesses that took 15 years to reach their first million, then just 4 years to add their second million. According to data from Club Capital, real economies of scale kick in at this point.

Coming Next

Next week, Bradley will dive into the "C" in the SCALE milestones, continuing to build a roadmap for the Rainmaker to Architect journey.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Don’t forget to visit club.capital and mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast!

In this powerhouse episode of The Above The Business Podcast, Bradley Hamner welcomes back a fan favorite—David Peterson, better known as Coach P. As a multi-location agency owner, business coach, and co-leader of the popular Scale and Profit Summits, Coach P brings clarity and raw honesty to the challenges business owners face as they try to grow their teams, their revenue, and themselves.

Bradley and Coach P dive deep into what it really takes to turn big dreams into real results—from the personal transformation required to lead at scale, to the mindset shifts necessary to sustain long-term growth. Whether you're stuck at $500k in revenue or pushing into multi-million territory, this episode will challenge and inspire you to recommit to the process and to your own development.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why dreaming big isn’t enough—and how to actually start the journey
• The compounding power of consistent effort over time (a.k.a. the “penny doubling” principle)
• The stages of growth Coach P experienced from 1 employee to 30+
• Why who you become is more important than any revenue number
• How to stay focused amid success and growing opportunities
• Why “being yourself” is the most underrated leadership strategy
• The role of solitude and vision in growing above the business
• How Coach P holds his team accountable without micromanaging

Coach P's 5 Key Attributes When Hiring:

1. Fun
2. Coachable
3. Hardworking
4. Trustworthy
5. Not dumb (his words—not ours!)

Memorable Quotes:

“I just never stopped. That’s the difference. We didn’t slow down—we sped up.”

“You don’t have to be perfect. Just don’t miss two days in a row.”

“You can’t lead well if you don’t know who you are.”

“If I’ve got someone who’s fun, coachable, hardworking, trustworthy, and not dumb—I can teach them to win.”

Connect with Coach P:

• Follow Coach P on Instagram: @SavingWithDavid.
• Visit: CoachPConsulting.com to learn about the next Scale and Profit Summit.

Learn more about The Rainmaker to Architect Journey:

• Register for Bradley’s live Operator to Owner WebClass at https://blueprintos.com

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Don’t forget to visit club.capital and mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast!

Bradley revisits the three core problems most small business owners face:

1. Lack of clarity.
2. Lack of systems and processes.
3. Chronic stress, fatigue, and overwhelm.

He then unpacks solutions to each:

• A roadmap for clarity.
• An operating system for scale.
• A commitment to self-leadership for energy and confidence.

This episode builds on previous discussions about protecting your confidence and energizing your team. Bradley now zeroes in on your responsibility to think deeply about your business—away from the noise and distraction of the daily grind. Drawing from lessons in The Road Less Stupid by Keith Cunningham and Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell, he challenges you to embrace “thinking time” as the ultimate CEO leverage tool.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Don’t forget to visit club.capital and mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast!

They explore the "Eight Phases of the Employee Journey" that Joey outlines in his latest Wall Street Journal bestseller, Never Lose an Employee Again. You’ll learn how to:

• Make your new hires feel welcome and confident on Day 1
• Eliminate first-week drop-off and ghosting
• Move from transactional hiring to transformational engagement
• Design a memorable employee experience that drives performance and loyalty

Whether you're an overwhelmed business owner, a leader trying to grow a team, or just tired of losing great people, this episode is a blueprint for retaining top talent and designing a business that runs without you.

🔑 In This Episode You'll Learn:

• Why the employee experience starts before the first day
• The biggest mistakes leaders make in onboarding
• The difference between hearing and listening to your team
• How to personalize recognition to increase loyalty
• What small business owners can borrow from companies like Zappos and Whirlpool
• How Joey’s First 100 Days® framework transforms culture and retention

👤 Meet Joey Coleman:

Joey Coleman helps organizations keep their people—both customers and employees. With two best-selling books, including Never Lose an Employee Again, and a client list that includes Whirlpool, Principal Financial, and Volkswagen Australia, Joey is one of the world’s leading voices on designing exceptional experiences. He’s spoken on all seven continents and has a track record of making big impacts through creative strategies that turn first impressions into lasting loyalty.

📚 Resources & Links:

• Joey’s Website: https://joeycoleman.com
• Get the book: Never Lose an Employee Again https://joeycoleman.com/books/never-lose-an-employee-again/

🗓️ Don’t Miss This If:

• You’re tired of hiring and re-hiring for the same roles
• You want a team that’s fully bought in, not just clocking in
• You’re ready to stop surviving and start designing a business that runs without you

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Don’t forget to visit club.capital and mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast!

Bradley breaks down how small business owners can protect and replenish their energy through practical frameworks like the Buyback Principle, Time and Energy Audits, and the Replacement Ladder. If you’ve ever felt burned out, overwhelmed, or like your business can't run without you, this episode is packed with actionable steps to help you shift from Rainmaker to Architect—so you can lead your team with clarity, confidence, and contagious energy.

🧠 In This Episode, You'll Learn:

• Why your energy—not your tactics—is the most valuable thing you bring to your team.
• How 72% of small business owners report daily stress—and what to do about it.
• What McKinsey found about the founder's energy in companies under 50 employees.

The three strategic tools to help buy back your time and protect your energy:

1. The Buyback Principle – Understand your hourly value and invest in reclaiming your time.
2. Time and Energy Audits – Identify which tasks drain or fuel you, and delegate accordingly.
3. The Replacement Ladder – A step-by-step path to remove yourself from the daily grind.

The "Know Your Numbers" Intensive Workshop is open for registration! Join Bradley and guest expert Sutton Sabinash, one of Club Capital's CFO Advisors, for this live workshop on May 27th at 10 AM CST! Learn more and save your seat here: https://intensive.blueprintos.com

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Don’t forget to visit club.capital and mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast!

Scott dives into his latest book, Referrals Done Right, and unpacks the Infinite Referral Advantage system — a simple yet powerful framework that helps entrepreneurs build lasting partnerships within their communities. From collaborating with fellow small business owners to partnering with local schools and community organizations, Scott reveals how relationship optimization is the new secret weapon for sustainable business growth.

As a father of three, Scott also discusses his passion project: preparing students for real-world success before they ever leave the classroom. Whether you're looking to build deeper connections, amplify your local impact, or simply generate more qualified referrals, this conversation is packed with practical takeaways you can start using immediately.

Connect with Scott on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottgrates/

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Don’t forget to visit club.capital and mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast!

The core message?

The most important thing you can do for yourself is to protect your confidence.

Drawing on personal experience and proven processes, Bradley shares a practical framework to help you maintain clarity, avoid burnout, and show up strong for your business week after week. Because when you’re tired, stressed, or overwhelmed, you’re not at your best—and your business feels it.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

The recap of the two core business problems previously addressed:

• Lack of clarity (Point A → Point B → Plan).
• Lack of systems and processes (Blueprint OS).
• Why exhaustion, stress, and overwhelm are more common than you think—and what to do about it.
• The bold claim: Your confidence is your most important asset.

How to protect that confidence with three simple but powerful rhythms:

• Weekly planning (especially on Sunday evenings).
• Quarterly reviews that highlight your wins.
• Annual reflections that bring your year into perspective.
• How weekly wins—even during hard weeks—can fuel your momentum and mindset.
• The importance of community: why surrounding yourself with like-minded entrepreneurs helps you see you’re not alone.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Don’t forget to visit club.capital and mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast!

Nick has built, co-founded, or acquired dozens of small businesses, with multiple successful exits and consistent recognition for growth, client satisfaction, and company culture. His entrepreneurial journey led him to develop the Business Alignment System, a powerful framework now used by thousands of business owners to better align leadership, strategy, and systems.

After exiting his most recent venture, Nick founded Redesigned.Business to help B2B service companies overcome operational inertia and unlock intentional, repeatable growth. He also hosts The Business Owner’s Journey podcast and has co-authored five best-selling books.

If you’re a business owner who feels stuck in the day-to-day, this conversation is for you. Nick shares practical strategies to regain clarity, scale with purpose, and finally build a business that works for you—not the other way around.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How to identify and eliminate operational bottlenecks.
• Why alignment is more important than hustle.
• The real reason many businesses plateau—and how to push past it.
• What intentional growth actually looks like.
• The biggest myths business owners believe about scaling.
• How to move from reactive to proactive leadership.

Whether you're running a multi-million dollar firm or just getting your operation off the ground, Nick’s insights will help you build a business that's both profitable and sustainable.

Links & Resources:

• Learn more about Nick’s work: https://www.redesigned.business
• Listen to The Business Owner’s Journey Podcast:
• Connect with Nick on LinkedIn:

Ready to design a business that runs without you?

Register for the Operator to Owner live class—happening this week! You’ll walk away with the clarity and next steps you need to go from stuck in the weeds to finally scaling with freedom. Sign up now » https://webclass.blueprintos.com

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Don’t forget to visit club.capital and mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast!

What is the 3D Model?

It’s simple—but powerful:

• Do it.
• Document it.
• Delegate it.

Bradley explains why documenting while you’re doing the work is the best time—not later. And why delegation isn’t just about handing off tasks; it’s about building repeatable systems that don’t depend on you.

You’ll learn:

• Why most documentation efforts fail and how to avoid that trap.
• How to hand off key systems (like recruiting or onboarding) without dropping the ball.
• The mindset shift that happens when your team sees that you design your business—down to fonts and templates—rather than doing things by default.
• How to start creating beautifully consistent, easy-to-follow systems using his Playbook for Creating Playbooks.

Bradley also revisits a powerful principle: "Never send a document in Arial." It’s not about the font—it’s about the mindset that drives operational excellence and intentional design.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Don’t forget to visit club.capital and mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast!

Michel and Andres share their decades of experience working with leaders around the world to shift mindsets, address unconscious bias, and design systems that empower all employees to contribute meaningfully. From generational diversity to inclusive leadership practices, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you build a more human-centered, equitable, and high-performing business.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why diversity without inclusion falls flat—and how to close that gap
• The concept of "invisible diversity" and its impact on workplace culture
• Practical steps leaders can take to create psychological safety
• How inclusion drives business performance and innovation
• Common blind spots leaders face when trying to create equitable systems
• Why storytelling is a powerful tool for building empathy and connection

Quotable Moments:

“You can have diversity at the table, but if those voices aren’t heard or valued, then it’s not true inclusion.” — Andres Tapia

“Inclusion is not just about being nice—it’s about changing systems so that everyone can thrive.” — Michel Buffet

Connect with the Guests:

• Michel Buffet – Global Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Strategist: https://www.kornferry.com/about-us/consultants/michelbuffet
• Andres Tapia – Senior Client Partner at Korn Ferry, DE&I Thought Leader: https://www.kornferry.com/about-us/consultants/andrestapia

Resources Mentioned:

• The Five Disciplines of Inclusive Teams: https://keap.app/contact-us/2138267355667611

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered.Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Don’t forget to visit club.capital and mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast!

Bradley walks you through how these playbooks sit within four essential principles—Clarity, Alignment, Team, and Execution—and how each of them gives shape to your systems, documents, and processes. Whether you’re using Google Drive, Dropbox, or a Microsoft shared folder, you’ll learn how to organize everything into a practical, easy-to-use structure so that nothing falls through the cracks.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Autopilot Recruiting is a continuous recruiting service where you’ll be assigned a recruiter that has been trained to recruit on your behalf every business day. Go to www.autopilotrecruiting.com to get started.

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered.Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Don’t forget to visit club.capital and mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast!

David’s entrepreneurial story is nothing short of remarkable. From selling Australia’s most iconic sporting venue, the Melbourne Cricket Ground, in his early twenties to launching and stepping out of one of the country’s top digital agencies, David has walked the talk. In 2016, he did what so many business owners dream of: he systemized himself out of the day-to-day operations, hired a CEO, and reclaimed his time. That journey sparked the creation of SYSTEMology—a framework that’s helped business owners around the world finally get out of the weeds.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why most business systems fail and what to do instead.
• The myth of needing to document everything perfectly before you start.
• How to shift from being the “key person” in your business to being the owner of a scalable, self-sustaining company.
• The first steps to implementing SYSTEMology in your business.
• What it looks like when you free yourself from daily operations—and why it’s possible for you.

David now leads a global movement of certified SYSTEMologists who are helping business owners like you simplify operations, regain freedom, and lead well.

If you're stuck in the weeds of your business and struggling to figure out how to replace yourself, this episode is a must-listen.

🎧 Listen now and start designing a business that runs without you.

Connect with David: https://www.systemhub.com/david-jenyns/

👉 Ready to take the next step? Register for the free Operator to Owner webclass and begin to design a business that can run without you: https://webclass.blueprintos.com

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Autopilot Recruiting is a continuous recruiting service where you’ll be assigned a recruiter that has been trained to recruit on your behalf every business day. Go to www.autopilotrecruiting.com to get started.

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered.Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Don’t forget to visit club.capital and mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast!

Bradley revisits the roadmap framework introduced in previous episodes—Point A (where your business is today), Point B (where you want to go), and the plan to get there. A core problem many business owners face is a lack of systems, and in this episode, Bradley introduces the first step toward solving it: creating a central repository for your business operations.

Key Takeaways:

• The Importance of an Operating System: Just like an iPhone runs on iOS, your business is running on an OS—right now, that OS is likely just you. The goal is to upgrade and externalize it.
• Creating a Centralized Hub: You need a "Team HQ," a digital space where all processes, documents, and assets are stored. This could be on Google Drive, Dropbox, or Microsoft Shared Drive.
• Blueprint OS Framework: Bradley introduces the concept of "Blueprint OS"—a structured approach to organizing business operations so they are easily accessible and replicable.
• Business Assets: How you do things in your business is an asset. These assets should be documented, organized, and stored in a structured way.
• Think Like an Acquirer: If you were to sell your business today, what would you hand over? Organizing your operating system now increases your company’s value and makes it more enjoyable to own.
• Starting with Structure: New members in Bradley’s program begin by setting up their OS architecture—defining folders, organizing existing assets, and creating an archive for outdated materials.
• Next Steps: In the following episode, Bradley will outline the core playbooks that should be part of every business’s operating system.

Action Steps:

1. Choose a digital platform to serve as your Team HQ.
2. Define a folder structure that organizes your business assets.
3. Gather existing assets and categorize them within your OS.
4. Set aside outdated documents in an archive folder.
5. Tune in next week for a breakdown of the essential playbooks for systematizing your business.

This episode is a must-listen for business owners looking to build a company that operates independently of them. Establishing a Team HQ is the first major step toward creating a sustainable, scalable business.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Autopilot Recruiting is a continuous recruiting service where you’ll be assigned a recruiter that has been trained to recruit on your behalf every business day. Go to www.autopilotrecruiting.com to get started.

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered.Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Don’t forget to visit club.capital and mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast!

Chad brings a wealth of experience in helping construction businesses scale, optimize operations, and create sustainable success. As the author of Well Built: How the Top 2% of Contractors Create Superior Value, Profits, and Excellence, and host of The Morning Huddle Construction Show, Chad shares invaluable insights on how to build and retain high-performing teams, navigate market disruptions, and tackle the industry's biggest profitability challenges.

Growing a business requires a shift in mindset and operations—what worked as a small business won't sustain long-term growth. Chad discusses the importance of creating scalable systems, structuring operations efficiently, and developing a strong leadership team to support expansion. Managing people is different from managing projects; business owners must cultivate leadership skills that foster strong company culture and employee retention.

Profitability remains a challenge for many businesses, and Chad breaks down why even high-revenue companies can struggle with thin margins. By measuring actions instead of just outcomes, businesses can identify the key drivers of success and make smarter, more strategic decisions. He also shares innovative strategies for improving efficiency and increasing profitability without relying on excessive cost-cutting.

In today’s rapidly changing market, disruption is inevitable—but it can also be an opportunity. Chad explains how businesses can embrace innovation, even without a dedicated innovation budget, and use uncertainty as a competitive advantage. By designing a business with the same intentionality as a well-constructed building, owners can create a strong foundation that supports sustainable success.

About Chad Prinkey:

Chad Prinkey is dedicated to helping construction businesses level up their operations and profitability. Through Well Built Construction Consulting, he works with general contractors, construction managers, specialty contractors, owners, and developers, providing hands-on consulting that enhances team skills, compensation structures, and communication. With experience delivering programs to over 120 construction firms, Chad’s insights are rooted in real-world expertise.

He is the author of Well Built: How the Top 2% of Contractors Create Superior Value, Profits, and Excellence and the host of The Morning Huddle Construction Show, where he interviews industry experts to share actionable advice with contractors.

Connect with Chad Prinkey:

🌐 Website: Well Built Consulting https://www.wellbuiltconsulting.com

📖 Book: Well Built (Advantage Books, June 18, 2024) https://www.amazon.com/Well-Built-Construction-Contractors-Excellence/dp/B0CZ5GRLQG

🎙️ Podcast: The Morning Huddle Construction Show https://www.themorninghuddleconstructionshow.com/

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Autopilot Recruiting is a continuous recruiting service where you’ll be assigned a recruiter that has been trained to recruit on your behalf every business day. Go to www.autopilotrecruiting.com to get started.

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered.Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Don’t forget to visit club.capital and mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast!

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered.Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Don’t forget to visit club.capital and mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast!

Get actionable strategies to tackle these issues head-on, focusing on the importance of leading yourself first. Discover how creating a personal operating system can help you regain control, protect your confidence, and show up as your best self for your team and business.

Key Takeaways:

1. Lack of Clarity:

• Develop a clear roadmap with three components: Where are you today? Where are you going? What's the plan to get there?

1. Ineffective Systems:

• Start documenting your systems and processes, creating core playbooks that form your business’s operating system.

1. Burnout:

• Lead yourself first by implementing three essential practices:
• Sunday Night Planning: Spend 45-60 minutes planning your week, starting by identifying your wins.
• Perfect Repeatable Week (PRW): Structure your schedule based on your energy rhythms rather than just time management.
• Think Time: Dedicate one hour weekly to step away, reflect, and think strategically about your business.

Why It Matters:

By applying these principles, you’ll reduce burnout, make better decisions, and lead with greater confidence. When you take care of yourself, you’re in a better position to take care of your business and your team.

Join Bradley’s Live WebClass:

Interested in diving deeper into these concepts? Register to attend the next Operator to Owner WebClass. Gain access to tools and strategies designed to help your business run without you.

Register Here at BlueprintOS.com

Connect with Bradley:

• LinkedIn: Bradley Hamner
• Website: Above The Business Podcast

Listen in, take notes, and start leading yourself first!

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Autopilot Recruiting is a continuous recruiting service where you’ll be assigned a recruiter that has been trained to recruit on your behalf every business day. Go to www.autopilotrecruiting.com to get started.

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered.Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Don’t forget to visit club.capital and mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast!

Bradley shares his personal journey of discovering the importance of systems, starting from his initial experience reading The E-Myth to his transformative experience at Strategic Coach. You'll hear how he shifted from being the doer of all tasks to becoming the architect of his business. He also unpacks the concept of a business operating system, explaining how establishing structured playbooks can create clarity, reduce stress, and ultimately build a process-driven business.

If you've ever felt like your business is too dependent on you or key team members, this episode will offer actionable insights on externalizing your knowledge, documenting processes, and setting up your own BlueprintOS.

Key Takeaways:

• Why lack of systems is a major bottleneck for small business growth
• The mindset shift from being a doer to an architect of your business
• How structured playbooks can create clarity and reduce chaos
• The difference between a people-dependent business and a process-driven business
• Steps to begin documenting your business processes effectively

Resources Mentioned:

• The E-Myth by Michael E. Gerber
• Strategic Coach with Dan Sullivan
• The Ideal Team Player by Patrick Lencioni
• BlueprintOS Program

Next Steps:

Want to take the first step in creating a business that runs without you? Register for Bradley's biweekly live class where he teaches you how to build and implement your own business operating system.

👉 Register for the Operator to Owner Webclass: https://webclass.blueprintos.com

Stay tuned for next week's episode, where Bradley will cover the third core problem holding business owners back.

Thanks to our sponsors...

BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!

Autopilot Recruiting is a continuous recruiting service where you’ll be assigned a recruiter that has been trained to recruit on your behalf every business day. Go to www.autopilotrecruiting.com to get started.

Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.

TodayApp is a corporate approved app that allows you to build custom activities and track all your commissions and bonus structures, and integrates perfectly with your CRM. It can even manage your employees’ time, track production, have a leaderboard with metrics, and more. Contact Today App and for a custom demo and let them know you heard about them on The Above The Business Podcast. https://todayapppro.com/

Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we’re just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we’ve got you covered.Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see the difference firsthand. Don’t forget to visit club.capital and mention you heard about us on the Above The Business podcast!