In this episode of Consulting Spotlight, host Michael Bernzweig interviews Jason Willis-Lee, founder of the Entrepreneurial Translator. They discuss the impact of AI on the language services industry, the importance of entrepreneurship in translation, and strategies for scaling businesses. Jason shares insights on leveraging AI tools, building personal brands, and effective lead generation techniques. The conversation also touches on the future of AI in business and the significance of email marketing as a long-term strategy.

Takeaways

• AI is revolutionizing the language services industry.
• Entrepreneurs in translation must build demand for their services.
• Leveraging AI tools can enhance productivity and efficiency.
• Building a personal brand is crucial for success in any industry.
• Email marketing is a gradual process that nurtures relationships.
• Lead magnets are effective for capturing potential clients' information.
• Networking and in-person events are invaluable for building connections.
• Understanding the intersection of technology and human services is key.
• The future of business will see more lifestyle-oriented approaches.
• Don't rely solely on rented platforms for your business growth.

Sound Bites

• "AI has really taken my industry by storm."
• "AI is just a tool in your tool belt."
• "Tech is part of our life whether we like it or not."
• "You have to be an authority yourself."
• "You can use quiz software for market research."
• "Email marketing is a gradual process."
• "Don't build a business on rented land."

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to the Entrepreneurial Translator
• 02:51 The Intersection of AI and Translation
• 05:57 Entrepreneurship in Language Services
• 08:54 Leveraging AI Tools for Translation
• 11:51 Strategies for Scaling Businesses
• 14:59 Building Personal Brands and Authority
• 17:56 The Importance of Email Marketing
• 20:46 Effective Lead Generation Techniques
• 23:59 Navigating Trends in Language Services
• 27:06 The Future of AI in Business

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In this episode of Consulting Spotlight, host Michael Bernzweig interviews Ivan Vislavskiy, CEO and founder of Comrad Digital Marketing. They discuss Ivan's journey from starting his agency in 2008 to its current success, focusing on local service businesses. The conversation covers the importance of specialization in marketing, common mistakes businesses make, the significance of data tracking, and the role of AI in the future of marketing. Ivan emphasizes the need for a strong unique selling proposition and effective client onboarding processes to drive success.

Takeaways

• Comrad Digital specializes in helping local service businesses grow.
• The agency focuses on measurable results rather than vanity metrics.
• Client retention is a priority, with a 96% retention rate.
• A proper marketing budget and long-term vision are essential.
• Many businesses spread their budget too thin across channels.
• Understanding marketing data is crucial for success.
• Effective client onboarding is key to a successful partnership.
• AI is transforming the marketing landscape and should be embraced.
• Defining a unique selling proposition is vital for differentiation.
• Businesses must ensure their intake process is efficient to convert leads.

Sound Bites

• "We help local service businesses grow."
• "Our primary focus is to deliver measurable results."
• "Client retention in our business is very high."
• "We function as their marketing extension."
• "Not having a proper marketing budget is a mistake."
• "Many companies spread their budget too thin."
• "AI will change everything in marketing."
• "You need to define your unique selling proposition."

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Comrad Digital Marketing
• 02:53 The Journey of Ivan Vislavskiy
• 05:54 Understanding Comrad's Unique Approach
• 08:57 Specialization in Local Marketing
• 11:58 Common Mistakes in Marketing Strategies
• 14:56 The Importance of Data Tracking
• 18:01 Effective Client Onboarding Process
• 20:54 Utilizing AI in Marketing
• 24:02 Actionable Insights for Businesses
• 26:52 The Future of Search and Marketing
• 29:55 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

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In this episode of the Consulting Spotlight, host Michael Bernzweig interviews Bill Douglas, CEO of OpticWise. Bill shares his entrepreneurial journey, the inception and services of OpticWise, and the impact of technology on commercial real estate. He discusses the importance of digital infrastructure, the onboarding process for property owners, and the advantages of owning digital assets. The conversation also touches on the effects of the pandemic on the real estate market, the innovative 'Building of Things' strategy, and future trends in technology and data usage. Bill emphasizes the need for digital transformation in the industry and the democratization of technology for smaller property owners.

Takeaways

• Bill Douglas is a seasoned entrepreneur with a passion for building companies.
• OpticWise specializes in data and digital infrastructure for commercial real estate.
• The company focuses on operations and revenue generation for its clients.
• Digital infrastructure ownership can significantly increase property value.
• The pandemic has accelerated changes in the commercial real estate market.
• OpticWise's 'Building of Things' strategy integrates various technologies in buildings.
• The commercial firewall concept helps property owners control vendor access.
• Data management is crucial for reducing operational costs and improving efficiency.
• Future trends include touchless technology and dynamic pricing for services.
• Digital transformation is essential for the commercial real estate industry.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to the Consulting Spotlight
• 01:06 Bill Douglas's Entrepreneurial Journey
• 02:36 Understanding OpticWise and Its Services
• 04:28 Engagement Examples in Commercial Real Estate
• 10:23 Onboarding Process for Property Owners
• 12:59 Advantages of Digital Infrastructure Ownership
• 17:27 Impact of the Pandemic on Commercial Real Estate
• 22:11 The Building of Things Strategy
• 24:51 Revenue Streams from Digital Infrastructure
• 31:02 Future Trends in Technology and Data Usage
• 34:06 Democratizing Technology in Commercial Real Estate

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In this episode of Consulting Spotlight, host Michael Bernzweig interviews Richard Lowe Jr., founder of The Writing King and a ghostwriting expert. Richard shares his unique journey from a corporate career to becoming a successful ghostwriter, emphasizing the importance of storytelling and personal experiences in writing. He discusses the value of having a book for professionals, the steps involved in the writing process, and the significance of marketing and distribution. Richard also addresses the evolving landscape of ghostwriting in the age of AI, highlighting the irreplaceable human touch in storytelling.

Sound Bites

• "Don't live in fear."
• "A book gives you credibility."
• "You need to know your audience."
• "Don't publish directly on Amazon."
• "Your story is important."
• "Ghostwriting is an art form."

Takeaways

• Don't live in fear; build up savings and confidence.
• Life's a journey; make it fulfilling and fun.
• A book gives you credibility and differentiates you.
• Know your audience before writing a book.
• Most books don't sell due to poor marketing or cover design.
• Consider a book an investment, not a cost.
• Avoid trying to write a book yourself if you're not a writer.
• The writing process should start with audience analysis.
• Marketing is crucial for book success; hire professionals if needed.
• AI cannot replicate the emotional depth of human writing.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction to Richard Lowe and His Journey
2. 04:05 Lessons Learned from a Unique Career Path
3. 09:59 The Value of Ghostwriting for Professionals
4. 15:58 Navigating the Book Writing Process
5. 21:56 Marketing and Distribution Strategies for Authors
6. 29:53 The Future of Ghostwriting in the Age of AI

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In this episode of Consulting Spotlight, host Michael Bernzweig sits down with Ameet Khabra, the founder of HopSkip Media, a leading digital advertising agency. Ameet shares her inspiring journey of breaking into the digital marketing world at just 19 and building an agency that has managed over $4.3 million in ad spend.

Ameet discusses how she transitioned from running an event planning company to becoming a Google Ads expert, eventually founding HopSkip Media. She recounts her early days managing up to 68 accounts solo and navigating the complexities of Google Ads, including trips to Silicon Valley to collaborate with Google itself. Along the way, she developed a reputation for simplifying paid advertising strategies and delivering exceptional results for her clients.

This episode dives into Ameet’s unique approach to client retention, her insights on the evolving landscape of PPC (pay-per-click) advertising, and her thoughts on how AI and automation are shaping the future of digital marketing. Whether you're a business owner looking to optimize your ad spend or a marketer eager to stay ahead of industry trends, this conversation is packed with actionable advice and expert insights.

Key Discussion Points:

• Building an ad agency from scratch: Ameet’s journey from freelancing to managing millions in ad spend.
• The importance of tracking conversions: Why businesses must avoid "blind" advertising.
• Negative keywords and their role in optimizing ad performance.
• Why Google Ads isn’t “set it and forget it”: The critical need for daily monitoring.
• How Ameet's team balances automation with human oversight in PPC campaigns.
• The challenges and opportunities presented by AI in digital advertising.
• Differences between Google Ads and Meta Ads: Choosing the right platform for your business.
• Common mistakes businesses make when running ads—and how to avoid them.
• Why communication is key in client-agency relationships.
• The future of PPC: Insights into upcoming trends like Performance Max and Search Max.

Stay Connected

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What can you expect from our Patreon?

By becoming a patron, you're investing in your own success and unlocking a range of exclusive benefits, including:

• Exclusive Content: Bonus episodes, extended interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and early access to recordings.
• Direct Influence: Suggest topics, ask questions for guests, and participate in polls to shape the future of the podcasts.
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• Community Access: Join a private channel to connect with other listeners.
• Software Oasis Free Course Access: Get access to one free course from Software Oasis's trending tech and career courses, valued at $249 to $399.
• Weekly Fan Newsletter: Packed with exclusive insights, updates, and curated resources.

In this episode of Consulting Spotlight, host Michael Bernzweig sits down with Lorrie Thomas Ross, founder and CEO of Web Marketing Therapy, to explore her transformative journey from luxury retail sales to becoming a renowned marketing therapist. Lorrie shares how her early career in sales at Saks Fifth Avenue unexpectedly led her into the fast-paced world of internet marketing during the dot-com boom. She discusses the evolution of her business, from its inception to becoming a trusted partner for intentional leaders seeking clarity and results in their marketing strategies.

Lorrie delves into the art and science of marketing, emphasizing the importance of aligning branding with values and purpose. She explains how her firm’s unique approach—focused on credibility, usability, visibility, sellability, and scalability—has helped clients achieve remarkable results, including doubling revenues and creating sustainable growth strategies. With nearly two decades of experience, Lorrie also highlights the role of personal branding, digital PR, and AI in today’s marketing landscape.

Whether you're a solopreneur or part of a large organization, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you optimize your marketing efforts while staying true to your brand's mission.

Key Discussion Points:

• Transitioning from luxury retail to digital marketing during the dot-com boom
• Founding Web Marketing Therapy and creating a values-driven agency
• The five-factor framework for marketing success: credibility, usability, visibility, sellability, scalability
• The importance of personal branding and thought leadership in modern marketing
• How AI is reshaping search and content strategies
• Common mistakes businesses make when hiring marketing professionals
• The role of long-term investment in advertising and programmatic channels
• Real-life client success stories: from rebranding to doubling revenue
• Balancing creativity with analytics for effective campaigns
• Tips for identifying the right marketing partner for your business

Stay Connected:
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In this episode of Consulting Spotlight, host Michael Bernzweig sits down with Marla Ballard, CEO of U2 Shine, a pioneer in quantum personal development. Marla shares her transformative journey from navigating personal trauma to becoming a top-performing entrepreneur and leader in the field of quantum coaching.

Raised on a Kentucky farm and later facing immense challenges as a military spouse, Marla reveals how she rebuilt her life after her husband’s injury in Iraq. She started a wellness business, became a top producer in her field, and eventually discovered the power of quantum personal development. This led her to work with U2 Shine founder Victoria Rader, where she not only healed but also unlocked new levels of personal and professional success. Today, Marla leads U2 Shine’s team of 17 coaches, serving clients globally with innovative programs that blend energy work, universal laws, and practical strategies.

Marla explains how quantum personal development helps individuals align their energy with their goals, overcome limiting beliefs, and achieve holistic success. From expanding mental faculties to leveraging gratitude and universal laws, she shares actionable insights for anyone looking to unlock their potential. Whether you’re a business leader or someone seeking personal growth, this episode offers valuable lessons on resilience, empowerment, and transformation.

Key Discussion Points:

• Understanding quantum personal development: blending energy work with practical strategies
• Overcoming limiting beliefs using universal laws and energy alignment
• Marla’s journey from trauma to becoming CEO of U2 Shine
• The role of gratitude in achieving goals and manifesting success
• How U2 Shine’s Abundant Me program helps clients expand mental faculties
• Customizing coaching for diverse client needs across industries
• The importance of aligning personal energy with professional aspirations
• Practical tools like the Empower Me app for daily empowerment
• Insights into working with veterans and small business owners
• The impact of healing trauma on unlocking leadership potential

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In this episode of Consulting Spotlight, host Michael Bernzweig sits down with Derek Hales, founder of NAPLAB, a groundbreaking platform for data-driven mattress testing and reviews. From his humble beginnings testing mattresses in his one-bedroom apartment to building a thriving business that has tested over 420 mattresses, Derek shares his inspiring entrepreneurial journey.

Derek recounts how a personal need for an affordable, high-quality mattress led him to create a website that quickly gained traction and evolved into a full-fledged business. With a focus on objective, quantifiable data, NAPLAB has transformed the way consumers shop for mattresses by providing transparent, unbiased reviews. Derek also highlights the critical role of his wife, who leveraged her expertise in mathematics to develop advanced tools and processes that power NAPLAB's operations.

Throughout the conversation, Derek delves into the evolution of the mattress industry, from the rise of direct-to-consumer brands to advancements in materials and manufacturing. He also offers practical advice for consumers navigating the overwhelming world of mattress shopping and explains how NAPLAB's data-driven approach simplifies the decision-making process.

Whether you're an entrepreneur seeking inspiration or a consumer curious about what goes into finding the perfect mattress, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss.

Key Discussion Points:

• Launching NAPLAB: From weekend hobby to thriving business
• Testing over 420 mattresses: How Derek built a data-driven review system
• The rise of direct-to-consumer mattresses: A $15 billion industry transformation
• Key factors in choosing a mattress: Firmness, price, and materials
• Scaling operations: Leveraging automation and tools like WordPress and Google Sheets
• The role of data: How objective metrics ensure unbiased reviews
• Manufacturing insights: Behind-the-scenes at U.S.-based factories
• The importance of branding in a competitive market
• Lessons from transitioning from corporate SEO to entrepreneurship
• How AI and automation are shaping e-commerce businesses

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