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Welcome to the Maker-Manager Money Podcast! In this episode, host Kyle Ariel Knowles talks with Greg Shove, CEO of Section and a seasoned entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience in the tech industry. Greg shares his journey through the ups and downs of building successful businesses, including his insights on the myths of Silicon Valley and the importance of persistence.

Greg discusses his personal goals, including spending time with his grandchildren and riding the AI wave in his ventures. He dives deep into the transformative power of AI, offering actionable advice on how entrepreneurs can leverage tools like ChatGPT and Claude to streamline workflows and enhance productivity.

Join us as we explore the realities of entrepreneurship, the grind behind startup success, and the evolving landscape of AI technology. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration.

Key Topics:

• Greg's entrepreneurial journey and lessons learned
• The impact of AI on business and education
• Balancing work and personal life as an entrepreneur
• The importance of managing expectations in startup culture
• Practical advice for harnessing AI tools

Links:

• Follow Greg on LinkedIn
• MBA Quality Online Education at Section
• From AI Hype to Working Prototype Machine & Partners
• Personal Math with Greg & Taylor
• Follow Kyle on LinkedIn

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In this heartfelt special episode on Maker Manager Money, Lyn Christian, Master Certified Coach (ICF MCC), Executive Coach, Business and Life Coach, Speaker, Amazon Best Selling Author, and Owner of SoulSalt Inc. dives deep into the complexities of grief and the importance of acknowledging our emotions after losing a loved one. Join us as Kyle Ariel Knowles shares his journey following the tragic loss of his son, Jake, to suicide.

Lyn explores the concept of "throwing the bullshit flag" on societal norms surrounding grief, discussing how grief is often misunderstood and underappreciated. Kyle reflects on the lessons he learned about love, loss, and the necessity of community during times of sorrow.

Discover the significance of allowing ourselves to grieve, the power of vulnerability, and the importance of finding meaning in our experiences. We also touch on practical strategies for coping with grief, including journaling, support groups, and the healing power of physical activity.

Whether you've experienced loss or want to understand the grieving process better, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement. Remember, it's okay not to be OK, and your feelings are valid.

TOPICS COVERED
-The journey of grief after losing a child
-The importance of community and support
-Practical coping strategies for grief
-The role of vulnerability in healing
-Understanding the long-term nature of grief

RESOURCES MENTIONED
It's Okay That You're Not Okay: Meeting Grief and Loss in a Culture that Doesn't Understand by Megan Devine

Finding Meaning: The Sixth Stage of Grief by David Kessler

Grief.com Resources and Support Groups

University of Utah's Caring Connections Grief Support

Soul Salt: Your Personal Field Guide to Confidence, Purpose, and Fulfillment by Lyn Christian

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In this Maker Manager Money podcast episode, host Kyle Knowles sits down with Kevin Biebelhausen, an investor and business owner based in North Carolina. Kevin shares his journey into Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA), a unique path to business ownership that focuses on acquiring established, profitable companies rather than starting from scratch.

Discover how Kevin's fund, Fruition Capital, targets B2B companies at least 10 years old and generates between $1 to $2 million in EBITDA. He explains why acquiring an existing business can be easier than chasing venture capital. He offers powerful insights on betting on yourself and building sustainable wealth through business ownership.

Throughout the conversation, Kevin discusses his background, including his experience as a professional opera singer and how it has influenced his approach to business. He also shares valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly those transitioning from corporate careers or military service.

Join us for an inspiring discussion highlighting ETA's potential and the importance of finding your own path in entrepreneurship.

Key Topics:

• What is Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA)?
• The benefits of acquiring established businesses
• Insights on investing in small to medium-sized businesses
• Kevin's journey from opera singer to business owner
• Advice for transitioning military veterans and corporate professionals

Links:

• Learn more about Kevin Biebelhausen at biebelhausen.com
• Connect with Kevin on LinkedIn

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In this episode of "Maker Manager Money," Kyle Ariel Knowles had the pleasure of speaking with Spencer Howard, a credit card loyalty program and travel rewards expert and founder of Straight to the Points (STTP). Spencer's journey into the world of travel rewards began after a career in politics, where he honed his skills in research and communication. He shared how his background in political science from Notre Dame and his experiences running political campaigns prepared him for the entrepreneurial path he eventually took.

Spencer's passion for travel and deal hunting led him to create STTP in 2017. He aims to help business owners and everyday travelers demystify credit card points and maximize their travel experiences without breaking the bank. His award-alert newsletters curate the best deals on premium cabin flights, making it easier for subscribers to book luxury travel.

During our conversation, we explored Spencer's transition from politics to travel writing, his unique approach to building a newsletter, and the importance of engaging with his audience. He emphasized the value of personalized consulting and how he helps clients optimize their points strategies. We also discussed the various credit card strategies he recommends for small business owners, highlighting the benefits of using business credit cards to earn more points.

Spencer shared insights into the growth of his newsletter, which started as a hobby and has now grown to around 10,000 subscribers. He explained the different subscription options, including a premium tier offering more in-depth travel insights. We also touched on the challenges of navigating the complex world of travel rewards and how Spencer aims to simplify that process for his readers.

As we delved deeper into Spencer's personal life, he opened up about his experiences with mental health, the impact of his parents on his life, and his passion for travel. He shared some of his favorite travel destinations, including Taiwan, and has on his bucket list to attend the Monaco Formula One race.

Spencer's enthusiasm for travel and helping others experience the luxury of flying business class was evident throughout the episode. He also discussed the tools he uses to manage his business, including MailChimp and Simple Texting, and how he balances work with family life, especially as a new father.

This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone interested in travel rewards, entrepreneurship, and turning a passion into a successful business. Join us as we uncover Spencer's story and learn how to use credit card points to create unforgettable travel experiences.

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In this episode of "Make or Manage Your Money," Kyle Ariel Knowles had the pleasure of speaking with Roger Einstoss, the CEO and co-founder of Braintly. This company connects U.S. businesses with top-tier software engineering talent in Latin America. Roger's entrepreneurial journey is inspiring, from his childhood days of selling burned CDs to leading a successful international business.

Roger shared insights into his educational background, highlighting his decision to pursue a technical school specializing in informatics, ultimately leading him to a software engineering degree. He recounted his early professional experiences, including his first job as a junior developer and his transition into management, where he learned the complexities of leading a team and navigating interpersonal dynamics.

As we delved deeper into his story, Roger explained how he and his co-founders identified a significant opportunity in the nearshore outsourcing market. They founded Braintly in 2012, and within a year, they secured their first client in Silicon Valley. Roger emphasized the importance of networking and collaboration, mainly through his involvement with the Entrepreneurs Organization (EO), which has provided him invaluable support and connections throughout his entrepreneurial journey.

We discussed Braintly's services, including staff augmentation and complete project teams, and how they cater to the needs of U.S. companies looking to build engineering teams in Latin America. Roger elaborated on their projects, often working with technology-driven companies that rely on software for their operations.

Much of our conversation focused on artificial intelligence's impact on the software development landscape. Roger shared his thoughts on the future of work for developers, the importance of maintaining foundational knowledge despite the rise of AI tools, and how Braintly is leveraging AI to enhance its recruitment processes.

As we wrapped up the episode, Roger reflected on the challenges and rewards of being an entrepreneur. He candidly discussed the difficulties of making tough decisions regarding team members and his company's profound impact on the lives of talented individuals in Argentina, providing them with opportunities to work for U.S. companies and improve their quality of life.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, software development, or the evolving landscape of work in the age of AI. Roger's story is inspiring and offers practical insights for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to navigate their journeys in the business world.

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In this episode of the Maker-Manager Money Podcast with Kyle Knowles, I had the pleasure of reconnecting with Jeanette Oku, a marketing pioneer and influencer marketing expert, who joined me from Berlin. Our conversation delved into her journey from journalism to establishing a global agency called BeyondInfluence, as well as her insights into the evolving landscape of the creator economy.

We kicked off the episode by discussing Jeanette's recent experiences at various marketing conferences in Paris and Dresden. She highlighted a particularly impactful influencer marketing conference in Paris, which focused on the intersection of creators and marketers. Jeanette shared her excitement about the event and the valuable connections she made, including a reunion with a friend from California.

As we transitioned into the core of our discussion, I revisited a topic we touched on in our previous conversation: the shift from the term "influencer" to "content creator." Jeanette elaborated on her predictions for influencer marketing in 2025, noting that the market is becoming increasingly saturated, which may lead to a decrease in influencer fees. She emphasized the need for influencer marketing to be recognized as a legitimate discipline within marketing strategies, rather than just an add-on.

Authenticity emerged as a key theme in our conversation. Jeanette argued that genuine content is more important than ever, especially in a world flooded with polished marketing materials. She pointed out that audiences are drawn to real, relatable content, and that brands must allow influencers the freedom to express their authentic voices.

We also explored the potential for older generations, such as Gen X and baby boomers, to thrive as influencers. Jeanette shared a fascinating anecdote about a campaign she worked on featuring retirees on TikTok, demonstrating that there is indeed a market for diverse age groups in the influencer space.

As the conversation progressed, we shifted our focus to the role of artificial intelligence in marketing. Jeanette explained how AI tools can streamline content creation and enhance marketing strategies, but she cautioned against relying on AI without a clear understanding of the problems one aims to solve. We discussed the importance of using AI to complement human creativity rather than replace it.

Towards the end of our chat, we touched on Jeanette's personal life, including her beloved cat and her daughter's transition to university. We also discussed her artistic pursuits, such as knitting, and the balance between work and personal creativity.

Finally, I asked Jeanette for book recommendations, and while she admitted she hadn't read much recently, she suggested the classic "Master and Margarita" by Mikhail Bulgakov, emphasizing its timeless relevance.

This episode is packed with insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and marketers, offering a fresh perspective on the future of influencer marketing, the importance of authenticity, and the transformative potential of AI in the creative space. Join us for an engaging and thought-provoking discussion that will inspire you to navigate the ever-evolving world of entrepreneurship and marketing.

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In this podcast episode, Kyle Ariel Knowles had the pleasure of speaking with Mike Hoffmann, an inspiring entrepreneur who has transitioned from a corporate career to building a successful vending business. Mike's journey began in rural Iowa, where his father's entrepreneurial spirit influenced him, and he even ran a lemonade stand as a child. After graduating from the University of Kansas with a degree in exercise science, he entered the world of collegiate strength conditioning, working long hours and realizing the need for financial freedom.

Mike's first taste of entrepreneurship came when he purchased a rental property as a strength conditioning coach in St. Louis. This experience sparked his interest in real estate investing. Still, it wasn't until he moved to Silicon Valley to work for Sparta Science that he truly immersed himself in the startup culture. During his time there, he learned valuable lessons about accountability, transparency, and the importance of having a clear vision for success.

The conversation took an interesting turn when Mike shared how his experiences traveling for work during the COVID-19 pandemic led him to discover the potential of the vending machine business. After witnessing the high margins on vending machine products in airports, he decided to take the plunge and install his first combo vending machine at an apartment complex near the University of Oregon. With minimal investment and a commitment to learning, Mike quickly saw success, generating significant profits from his initial machine.

As we delved deeper into his entrepreneurial journey, Mike discussed the importance of having a solid support system, including a good CPA and legal counsel, to navigate the complexities of running a business. He also emphasized the value of understanding tax advantages as an entrepreneur, which can significantly impact one's take-home pay.

Throughout the episode, Mike shared insights on scaling his vending business, the importance of community among fellow entrepreneurs, and his passion for helping others start their vending routes through his website, Vendingpreneurs.com. He also touched on his broader vision of creating passive income streams, which he believes is essential for achieving financial freedom and spending more time with family.

Listeners will find this episode not only informative but also motivational, as Mike's story exemplifies the power of perseverance, adaptability, and entrepreneurial spirit. Whether you're considering starting your own business or looking for ways to create passive income, Mike's journey offers valuable lessons and inspiration for anyone on the entrepreneurial path.

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SUMMARY

In this episode of the Maker Manager Money podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Jill Wright, the founder of Executive Shine, a company that has transformed the art of shoeshining into a meaningful service experience. With over 38 years of experience, Jill operates locations in both the Denver and Charlotte International Airports, but her story goes far beyond just shining shoes.

Jill's approach to business is deeply rooted in love and connection. She emphasizes the importance of asking, "What does love look like here for the person in front of me right now?" This guiding principle has shaped her leadership style and the culture at Executive Shine. From her ranch in Colorado, where she raises horses and chickens, Jill has developed an innovative training program called the Shine Experience, which focuses on creating high-functioning teams through a service-oriented culture.

During our conversation, Jill shared her personal journey, including her early experiences with horses and how they taught her about energy and connection. She recounted a pivotal moment with her trainer, who advised her to be mindful of how her energy impacts those around her. This lesson has been instrumental in her approach to leadership and service.

We delved into the concept of HeartMath, a practice that emphasizes heart-brain coherence and the importance of connecting with others from a place of love rather than fear. Jill explained how this practice has influenced her interactions, both personally and professionally, and how it can help individuals navigate stress and build authentic connections.

The episode took a poignant turn as I opened up about my own journey of grief following the loss of my son, Jake. Jill offered insights on how to channel grief into love and connection, emphasizing that unexpressed love is often what we carry in our hearts after a loss. Her perspective on using personal experiences to foster deeper connections with others resonated deeply with me.

Jill also shared her entrepreneurial journey, highlighting her rebellious spirit and desire to create something meaningful. She discussed the importance of hiring individuals who align with her core values and the significance of developing a diverse team that can bring unique perspectives to the table.

Throughout our conversation, Jill's passion for serving others and creating a culture of love and connection was evident. She reminded me that true leadership involves vulnerability and the willingness to honor the unique gifts of each team member.

TIME STAMPS

00:00:00 - Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
00:01:53 - Jill's Life on the Ranch
00:02:23 - Jill's Passion for Horses and Dressage
00:03:11 - The Connection Between Humans and Horses
00:05:22 - Energy Awareness and Its Impact
00:09:00 - Channeling Energy Through the Heart
00:10:53 - Understanding HeartMath
00:14:02 - The Importance of Heart-Brain Coherence
00:19:04 - Navigating Grief and Loss
00:20:55 - Finding Purpose Through Pain
00:31:05 - Jill's Early Life and Entrepreneurial Spirit
00:33:05 - The Birth of Executive Shine
00:39:00 - Building a Team and Delegation
00:43:07 - The Importance of Authenticity in Leadership
00:55:02 - The Power of Connection Over Perfection
00:58:18 - Hiring for Love and Impact
01:00:07 - Expansion of Executive Shine Locations
01:01:45 - The Journey to Washington, D.C.

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