In this episode of Mastering Business Skills, hosts Sharon Savage and Erin Alli welcome Pauleen Murphy, founder of Politan Marketing and seasoned fractional chief marketing officer. Pauleen shares her expertise in helping founder-led businesses scale more effectively, covering everything from emotional leadership transitions to the systems and organization that sustain fast growth. Discover what kinds of clients thrive with fractional marketing leadership, and why networking is an essential ingredient not just for business results but for personal growth and confidence. Key takeaways include: Pauleen’s unique approach as the first marketing leader for owner-driven companies, typically working with founders in businesses ranging from $1 to $20 million ARR.​ Why the emotional side of handing off strategic decisions is often the hardest for entrepreneurs, and what it means to move from “great entrepreneur” to “visionary leader”.​ The value of organization and systems: how strong foundations, clear positioning, and AI best practices streamline execution and allow lean marketing teams to excel. Insights on the importance of cross-industry experience, and how Pauleen integrates internal teams, vendors, and her own assistants for holistic results.​ How consistent, intentional networking, especially one-on-one connections, creates unexpected opportunities and directly improves business growth.​ Practical strategies for leveraging your own strengths, finding balance, and moving your business forward through education and connection. Connect with Pauleen: Website: politanmarketing.com LinkedIn: Pauleen Murphy Portfolio: politanmarketing.com/portfolio

In this episode of Mastering Business Skills, hosts Sharon Savage and Erin Alli are joined by Erika Dickstein, CEO of Spring Insight, a forward-thinking marketing strategy firm. Erika dives deep into the evolving landscape of digital marketing, from the rise of AI-driven search to the persistent challenges of maintaining meaningful online presence for expert-led businesses. Listeners will discover why digital marketing matters more than ever and how content, even the kind you didn’t know you had, can be transformed into an engine for visibility and credibility. Key takeaways include: Erika’s path from corporate marketing to entrepreneurship and what inspired her transition to supporting subject matter experts and business leaders.​ Why websites for small businesses often disappoint, and how a strategy-first approach bridges the gap.​ The impact of generative AI on how clients are discovered, and why early adoption of new marketing technologies creates long-term success.​ Telling signs it’s time to hire a digital marketing firm and the value of having a true marketing partner at your side.​ Erika’s actionable method for repurposing content, multiplying the impact of each idea or asset across all channels, even when you feel like you have “nothing to say”.​ The importance of leveraging your unique knowledge and perspective, because what seems obvious to you is valuable to others. Connect with Erika: LinkedIn: Erika Dickstein Website: springinsight.com

Warning: Some adult language used. Please use headphones if you have littles around! In this episode of Mastering Business Skills, hosts Sharon Savage and Erin Alli sit down with Maggy Sterner, an expert brand messaging coach known for her straightforward approach to helping entrepreneurs answer the all-important question: "What do you do?" Maggy shares her unconventional journey from DJ and journalist to sought-after clarity coach, revealing the power of owning your expertise and delivering your message in a single, confident sentence. Key takeaways include: Why fear is the biggest obstacle holding entrepreneurs back from stating what they do, and how to overcome it.​ The essential distinction between marketing and sales, and why clearly telling people how you help is the foundation of success.​ Maggy’s “one sentence solution” for crafting clear and impactful messaging without overwhelm or jargon.​ The secret to messaging that resonates: use the words your ideal clients already use to describe their struggles and desires.​ How choosing a focus and “picking a lane” can be the ultimate move for business growth and confidence.​ Actionable strategies for introverts, perfectionists, and anyone afraid of being “salesy” to own their voice and help those they’re meant to serve. Connect With Maggy: LinkedIn: Maggy Sterner Website: maggysterner.com  

In this episode, Sharon Savage and Erin Alli sit down with Bill Duguay, executive coach and former CEO, to unpack what it really means to lead effectively, without carrying the weight alone. Bill shares how his journey from civil engineer to construction leader laid the groundwork for his no-nonsense, field-tested approach to leadership and team coaching. This conversation covers everything from the critical need for operational systems, to the transformative power of saying the hard things, to practical tips for building trust and connection, even in chaos. Key Takeaways: Every leader needs three essentials: a coach/mentor, a peer group, and a solid operating system to remove randomness and stress.​ Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are vital for ensuring continuity and scaling, especially for solopreneurs or small business owners.​ Delegation isn't just about workload; it's about enabling others to discover their strengths and ensuring your business and clients are protected in case you need to step away.​ Saying the hard things is a skill that takes practice and psychological safety. Radical candor and vulnerability-based trust are cornerstones of healthy teams.​ True leadership means being fully present, normalizing conversations around mental health, and creating space for meaningful connection at work.  Books Mentioned: Radical Candor by Kim Scott The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni Connect with Bill: LinkedIn: Bill Duguay  Website: EOS Worldwide

In this episode of Mastering Business Skills, we sit down with Rob Manne, founder of Inflectiv, to explore how growing companies can turn their CRM, marketing, and sales tools into real revenue. Rob shares how his team helps businesses optimize platforms like HubSpot and AI to streamline operations, improve forecasting, and make smarter decisions. From his early days in PR and marketing to building a consultancy that bridges strategy and systems, Rob offers insights into active listening, iterative growth, and the power of simplifying tech stacks. He also opens up about his evolving definition of success, his journey with ADHD, and how embracing imperfection can lead to meaningful impact. Whether you’re drowning in disconnected tools or just starting to build your client pipeline, this episode is packed with practical advice and thoughtful reflection. 🔑 What You’ll Learn Why “shift is better than perfect” is a powerful mindset for entrepreneurs How CRM systems like HubSpot can transform sales, marketing, and customer success The importance of listening deeply, and asking the right questions How to simplify your tech stack and save thousands in unnecessary tools Ways to use AI strategically in sales and marketing operations Why delegation doesn’t mean losing connection to the work you love   Connect with Rob Manne Inflectiv Website LinkedIn Free consultation  

In this episode of Mastering Business Skills, we sit down with Thomas Howard, Business Development Director at Brightway Advisors, to explore the intersection of financial operations and authentic relationship-building. With over two decades in banking and a passion for strategic networking, Thomas shares how businesses can move beyond basic bookkeeping to unlock meaningful insights and sustainable growth. From managing numbers to managing nerves, Thomas opens up about his journey, including how fire performance and historical martial arts shaped his ability to stay calm under pressure. We also dive into his vision for expanding Brightway’s services through white-label partnerships and his evolving definition of success as a father, leader, and lifelong learner. Whether you're a solopreneur juggling every hat or a growing team looking for clarity, this episode offers practical advice, thoughtful reflection, and a few sparks of inspiration. 🔑 What You’ll Learn Why financial operations go far beyond bookkeeping How strategic networking builds trust and long-term value Tips for making meaningful introductions without overwhelming your contacts The importance of knowing your own capacity—and respecting others’ How performance art can teach crisis management and emotional resilience Why conflict management is the next skill every leader should master   Connect with Thomas Howard Brightway Advisors Website LinkedIn Meet with Thomas

In this episode of Mastering Business Skills, we sit down with Anitra Deen, networking strategist, fractional COO, and founder of Anitra Deen Consulting. Anitra shares how she helps women entrepreneurs and small business owners turn casual connections into strategic business development. From building infrastructure for follow-up to understanding your sales cycle, Anitra offers actionable insights that move businesses from stuck to scalable. We dive into her signature tools like the Hive Networking Hotline and the Networking Value Calculator, designed to help solopreneurs make smarter decisions about where and how they network. Plus, Anitra opens up about her journey, her upcoming book Organize Your Ducks, and the next skill she’s mastering: conflict management. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this episode is packed with practical advice and empowering strategies to help you build intentional relationships and sustainable growth. 🔑 What You’ll Learn: Why follow-up is just as critical as showing up How to build a system for networking that actually works The importance of knowing your sales cycle and buying seasons How to evaluate networking opportunities with real ROI metrics Tips for preparing before events so your follow-up is intentional Why conflict management is a powerful tool for business growth   🤝 Connect with Anitra Deen: Website LinkedIn Hive Networking Hotline Instagram  

In this episode of Mastering Business Skills, we sit down with Frank Scearbo, a credit card processing expert with a background in banking, accounting, and business advisory services. Frank shares how he helps business owners navigate the often confusing world of merchant services, ensuring they get the lowest possible cost on every transaction while receiving top-tier customer support. With over 20 years in the industry, Frank breaks down: – Why credit card processing doesn’t have to be a “necessary evil”– How to avoid hidden fees and misleading rate structures– The power of personalized service in a tech-driven world– Why handwritten cards and simple check-ins still matter– How mindset and positive thinking shape long-term success Whether you’re running a brick-and-mortar shop or selling online, Frank’s insights will help you rethink how you accept payments, and how you treat your customers.   Connect With Frank Scearbo:Credit Card Expert WebsiteCompany WebsiteLinkedIn    Tune In & Share:If this episode helped you rethink your payment systems or sparked a new idea, share it with a fellow entrepreneur. And don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes that help you master the skills that matter most.

In this episode of Mastering Business Skills, we sit down with Dan Collins, founder of Franchisee First Advisors, to explore how franchising can be a powerful path to financial freedom, legacy-building, and lifestyle flexibility. With over 30 years in the franchise world, Dan shares what makes a franchise truly worth investing in, how to avoid costly mistakes, and why the right fit matters more than flashy concepts. 💡 What You’ll Learn:– Why only 50–60 out of 4,200 franchises are worth considering– The difference between “semi-absentee” and “engaged investor” models– How to spot red flags in franchise disclosure documents (FDDs)– Tips for matching your personality, goals, and financial comfort to the right franchise– How franchising can help you buy back your time and build generational wealth Whether you're dreaming of business ownership or looking to expand your portfolio, Dan’s insights will help you make smarter, more confident decisions.   Connect With Dan Collins:Website Facebook  LinkedIn  Youtube   Tune In & Share:If this episode opened your eyes to the world of franchising, share it with a friend or colleague who’s ready to take the leap. And don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes that help you master the skills that matter most.

In this episode of Mastering Business Skills, we sit down with Ashlee Berghoff, to talk about the systems that help entrepreneurs turn big ideas into sustainable success. Ashlee shares how she helps event-based businesses move from 7-figure chaos to 7-figure profit by building operational infrastructure that actually works. From simple systems to complex human dynamics, she breaks down how to create structure without sacrificing creativity or personal values. What You’ll Learn:– The four types of systems: simple, complicated, complex, and chaotic– Why systems don’t cheapen meaning, they protect what matters most– How to use small, intentional habits to support your big-picture goals– The importance of aligning your business model with your personal definition of success– Why community involvement and personal balance are key to long-term growth Whether you're scaling up or simplifying down, Ashlee’s insights will help you build a business that supports your life, not the other way around. Connect With Ashlee Berghoff:Website LinkedInBook: Eureka Results   Tune In & Share:If this episode helped you rethink your systems or sparked a new idea, share it with a fellow entrepreneur. And don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes that help you master the skills that matter most.

In this episode of Mastering Business Skills, we sit down with Michelle Correnti, CEO and founder of Correnti Marketing, a branding and digital marketing agency that helps professional service providers transform complex expertise into clear, compelling messaging. Michelle shares how she built her agency around the belief that service-based businesses thrive when their brand reflects not just what they do, but who they are. From visual identity to content strategy, she dives into the importance of staying top of mind with clients and referral sources alike. 💡 What You’ll Learn:– How to translate your expertise into messaging that resonates– Why consistency across platforms builds trust and visibility– Tips for optimizing your LinkedIn profile (even if you hate LinkedIn!)– The power of community involvement for personal and professional growth– What success looks like beyond the paycheck, and how to find balance Whether you're just starting out or refining your brand as a seasoned pro, Michelle’s insights will help you show up with clarity, confidence, and connection.  Connect With Michelle Correnti: Website Facebook LinkedIn    Tune In & Share:If this episode sparked ideas or helped you rethink your brand, share it with a fellow entrepreneur or service provider. And don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes that help you master the skills that matter most.

In this episode of the Mastering Business Skills podcast, hosts Erin Alli and Sharon Savage sit down with Jennifer Gillman, founder and CEO of Gillman Strategic Group. A former lawyer turned candidate-facing recruiter, Jennifer specializes in helping attorneys find their “exact right perfect fit” law firm opportunities that align not only with their professional goals but also with their personal well-being. Jennifer shares how she quickly identifies whether lawyers need a career shift, a new firm, or simply better resources to thrive. She also debunks the myth that attorneys only move for money, highlighting instead the importance of balance, culture, and the ability to serve clients effectively. Other highlights from this conversation include: Jennifer’s superpower of spotting career misalignment in under 15 minutes Why most lawyers leave firms for better resources or balance—not just compensation The power of focus: how adopting the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) transformed her business Why taking imperfect action beats waiting for perfection every time The concept of the “Happy Rainmaker” and her six pillars for building a fulfilling legal career A sneak peek at Jennifer’s upcoming book, inspired by The Go-Giver, launching in 2026 Whether you’re a lawyer searching for happiness in your career, a professional struggling with perfectionism, or a business owner trying to master focus, Jennifer’s story offers practical insights and inspiring advice. Resources & Links Mentioned Gillman Strategic Group Website Connect with Jennifer on LinkedIn

Episode Summary:In this episode of Mastering Business Skills, hosts Erin Alli and Sharon Savage welcome Shannon Carriere—an “HR without the fluff” expert who brings a global perspective and a pragmatic approach to solving complex people problems. With experience spanning manufacturing, healthcare, finance, construction, and beyond, Shannon specializes in guiding leaders through sticky, urgent, and high-stakes HR challenges with clarity, common sense, and calm. Shannon shares her journey from corporate HR to running her own HR hotline for small businesses, helping organizations navigate laws, compliance, and team dynamics without the overwhelm. From building HR functions from scratch to untangling growth pains across the US, EMEA, South America, and APAC, she’s seen it all—and knows how to cut through the noise. You’ll learn: Why even seasoned leaders skip the most obvious first step in resolving employee issues Shannon’s proven method for conquering “where do I even start?” overwhelm Why small businesses should invest in experts before they think they’re “ready” How proactive HR saves far more than reactive clean-up What “managing seasons” means in business and life—and how Shannon uses it to stay intentional Why she’s embracing video (and even “winning ugly”) to showcase her personal HR style Whether you’re running a startup or leading an established team, this episode will change how you approach your people problems and give you practical tools you can use immediately. About Our Guest:Shannon Carriere is a global HR expert and founder of an HR hotline service for small businesses. She’s helped leaders across industries and continents handle complex, high-stakes people issues without overcomplicating solutions. From startup growing pains to global transition support, Shannon’s approach is rooted in practicality, clarity, and putting people first. Connect with Shannon: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannoncarriere/  Website: https://carrierehr.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ShannonCarriere/videos

Episode Summary:In this episode of Mastering Business Skills, hosts Erin Alli and Sharon Savage sit down with Ed Keohan—executive coach, advisor, and president of Clarity and Impact Coaching—to explore what it really takes to help businesses grow and thrive. With over 30 years of leadership experience in industries ranging from food and beverage to medical diagnostics, Ed shares how his transition from corporate executive to certified business coach reshaped his approach to problem-solving, leadership, and strategic growth. You’ll hear Ed’s insights on: Why great coaching is more about asking questions than giving answers. How to resist the urge to be the “answer person” and instead empower clients to find solutions. The importance of clarity in setting long-term business goals—and the accountability to follow through. Why networking is a critical skill most business leaders overlook. How leaders can let go of control without losing momentum. The role of communication in driving change and avoiding “ripple effect” chaos. Ed also shares his honest reflections on lessons learned, skills he wishes he’d developed sooner, and how business owners can prepare for sustainable growth without getting stuck in the “founder’s trap.” Whether you’re leading a growing team or considering a shift into coaching, this episode offers practical advice and inspiring stories you can apply today. About Our Guest:Ed Keohan is a certified business and executive coach and the president of Clarity and Impact Coaching. Based in Southern New Hampshire, Ed works with small to medium-sized companies to improve communication, refine processes, boost profitability, and guide leaders toward both business success and personal balance. Connect with Ed: Website: https://www.clarity-impactcoaching.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-keohan-abb6748 

Episode Summary:In this inspiring conversation, Erin and Sharon sit down with Ashlan Glazier-Anderson—a Professional Certified Marketer and Certified Digital Marketing Professional with over 18 years of experience—to talk about building authentic, effective marketing strategies that fit each client’s unique strengths. Ashlan shares her journey from corporate and agency work to launching her own business, Ashbeam PDX Marketing, and how she tailors marketing solutions for both small businesses and nonprofits. Ashlan dives into: Why “one-size-fits-all” marketing advice often fails. How to identify your best-fit clients (and say no when it’s not a match). The value of authenticity in marketing and sales conversations. Balancing multiple marketing services while avoiding burnout. Documenting systems and processes early to save time and headaches later. Her “Christmas in July” workshop series for prepping Q4 sales strategies. She also shares the personal habits that keep her focused—including her morning pages routine and color-coded calendar—and her belief that success is measured in client retention and long-term impact, especially for nonprofits. Takeaways: Build strategies around what works for you, not just what the latest trend says. It’s okay (and often necessary) to fire clients who aren’t the right fit. Consistency, authenticity, and strategic preparation are keys to long-term growth. Retention and relationships can be more important than rapid scaling. Connect with Ashlan:Website | LinkedIn  Subscribe & ReviewIf you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to the Mastering Business Skills Podcast and leave us a review so more listeners can find and benefit from our conversations.

📌 Episode Summary:In this episode of Mastering Business Skills, we sit down with Sharon Sobel—founder of Picture This Video—to explore how she transformed her passion for video production into a sustainable business that has evolved alongside changing technology and client needs. With over two decades of experience in educational and nonprofit media, Sharon shares how she transitioned from cable television and school system production to launching a thriving freelance business that now focuses on livestreaming, video podcast production, and marketing strategy. Whether you're starting a creative business, growing a podcast, or figuring out pricing and pivots, Sharon's journey offers lessons in adaptability, self-awareness, and the power of taking strategic risks. 🧠 Topics Covered: How Sharon went from public access TV to business ownership Learning pricing and value the hard way (and how she improved it) Supporting podcasters with livestreams, branding, and monetization The difference between skill and business acumen—and how she built both How her husband turned podcasting into a full-time career with sponsors The importance of local resources (SCORE, SBDCs, chambers, etc.) Building process documentation for livestream events Why consistency trumps quantity when podcasting 💬 Quotes to Remember: “The video skills are great—but if you’re running a business, you have to learn how to run the business too.”— Sharon Sobel “I didn’t know how to price until I was the one processing invoices. Watching what others charged taught me more than a course ever could.”— Sharon Sobel “You don’t have to be everywhere at once. You need to show up consistently—even if that’s once a month.”— Sharon Sobel “We named it Picture This Video—but in five years, I could see us calling it Picture This Radio and merging the video and podcast sides of the business.”— Sharon Sobel 📣 Who This Episode Is For: Creative entrepreneurs navigating business growth Podcasters looking to improve production quality or monetize Freelancers unsure how to set rates or scale services Anyone debating a leap from employment to self-employment Service providers considering a niche pivot or rebrand 👋 Connect with Sharon Sobel:🔗 Website: Picture This Video🔗 LinkedIn: Sharon Sobel 📌 Want more behind-the-scenes conversations with inspiring entrepreneurs?Be sure to follow or subscribe, and if you loved this episode, leave us a review!

📌 Episode Summary:In this episode of Mastering Business Skills, we sit down with award-winning public relations expert Andrea Pass, founder of Andrea Pass Public Relations. With decades of experience across national media, consumer products, nonprofits, authors, and more, Andrea shares her journey from dreaming of a broadcast career to building a thriving PR agency—and the powerful relationships that fueled her path. She dives into the essential business skills new entrepreneurs need beyond PR—like relationship building, organization, and resilience—and why communication methods matter more than ever. Andrea also discusses her successful networking venture, Access Success Networking, and why intentional connection beats the elevator pitch every time. If you're building a business, trying to increase visibility, or want insight from someone who's pivoted successfully (and happily) over time, this episode is packed with wisdom, laughs, and tactical advice. 🧠 Topics Covered: Andrea’s unexpected path from broadcast journalism to public relations The most underrated skills that helped her launch and grow her business How to make authentic networking actually work (no more boring elevator pitches!) What new entrepreneurs often get wrong about PR—and how to fix it The difference between DIY PR and hiring a professional Why happiness is her definition of success—and how that’s evolved Her new focus on media training and leadership at the Fair Lawn Chamber of Commerce 🔥 Quotes to Remember: “Everyone's got a story. But what makes yours special? That’s what drives PR.”“If you’re not organized, things slip through the cracks—and that’s where you lose business.”“Happiness is success. That’s what I strive for now, every day.” 📣 Connect with Andrea Pass: Website: AndreaPassPR.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/andreapass Instagram: @AndreaPassPR Facebook: www.facebook.com/andreapasspublicrelations X: https://x.com/NJ_Andrea 🎧 Tune in and learn:Whether you're navigating a new business or thinking about your next pivot, Andrea’s honest, insightful journey will leave you inspired—and ready to build stronger relationships in your business today. If you like this episode, please subscribe so you never miss a new one! 

📌 Episode Summary:In this episode of Mastering Business Skills, Erin Alli talks to Brad Eisenberg, founder of Be Lean, to talk about the real work of scaling a service-based business—and how to navigate the “messy middle” where growth becomes complex, chaotic, and sometimes overwhelming. Brad shares his entrepreneurial journey from launching a bike-sharing startup in college to becoming COO of a fast-growing company, and ultimately creating a consulting firm that helps businesses scale with clarity, intention, and the right systems. He breaks down the four essential components of scalability, explains how to avoid shiny-object syndrome, and offers a refreshing take on defining success on your own terms. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to scale without sacrificing quality or sanity Brad’s 4 key pillars of scalability: traction, profit, capacity, and innovation Why your lived experience always brings value—even if you feel like you're starting from scratch How to approach business growth as a series of small, smart experiments What success really looks like when you’re building a business that works for you (not the other way around) 🎧 Listen to the full episode here:🔗 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mastering-business-skills/id1817446208🔗 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3pA7iQAoo2gvhBGnjPpIr8🔗 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzFg-Yn62awp-lzhJ_5blXg Connect with Brad: Website: https://www.beleanbusiness.com  LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-eisenberg/  If you liked this episode, subscribe so you always see the new releases! 

📌 Episode Summary:In this thought-provoking episode of Mastering Business Skills, hosts Erin Alli and Sharon Savage sit down with Alexandra Suchman, CEO and co-founder of Barometer XP, to explore how play can transform workplace culture. Alexandra shares how her background in organizational development and her curiosity about team dynamics led her to co-create a platform that uses games to spark trust, connection, and collaboration. From breaking down resistance to play at work to launching a searchable game database and facilitator certification program, Alexandra offers fresh, practical insights for anyone ready to improve how their team communicates and grows—together. You’ll learn: Why most workplace issues are rooted in broken interpersonal dynamics How non-competitive games build psychological safety and mutual accountability How to use storytelling, reflection, and play to strengthen team performance Ways to overcome fear or awkwardness around introducing play in professional settings Alexandra’s personal journey from burnout to building a mission-driven business Whether you’re a leader, coach, facilitator, or team member, this episode will inspire you to think differently about culture—and maybe even have a little fun while you're at it. 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite platform:🔗 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mastering-business-skills/id1817446208🔗 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3pA7iQAoo2gvhBGnjPpIr8🔗 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzFg-Yn62awp-lzhJ_5blXg Connect with Alex and Barometer XP: Barometer XP: https://www.barometerxp.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandrasuchman  Play Concierge Platform (free to join): https://app.barometerxp.com  Like this episode? Subscribe so you never miss the latest release! 

📌 Episode Summary:In this inspiring episode of Mastering Business Skills, hosts Erin Alli and Sharon Savage sit down with Bernie DeSantis—Owner of Insignia Training Partners and founder of Growth Mode Engaged—to explore his journey from mortgage banker to leadership trainer to business owner. Bernie shares how he transitioned from corporate burnout to entrepreneur, what it really takes to run a business, and how listening, mentorship, and passion drive lasting success. You’ll hear about: How Bernie unexpectedly became a leadership trainer (hint: ropes courses and SWAT team simulations!) The leap from contractor to business owner The overlooked workload behind virtual events (36+ hours!) Why networking is more about relationships than transactions The mindset shifts and habits that support sustainable growth His personal mission in suicide prevention and mental health awareness Whether you're a small business owner, facilitator, or someone scaling up your skill set, Bernie brings refreshing honesty, tactical insight, and heart to the conversation. 🎧 Listen to the full episode on your favorite platform:🔗 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mastering-business-skills/id1817446208🔗 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3pA7iQAoo2gvhBGnjPpIr8🔗 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzFg-Yn62awp-lzhJ_5blXg Connect with Bernie: Insignia Training Partners: https://insigniatraining.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/badiii If you liked this episode, please subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes!