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When Starla West swapped the security of her consulting job for the roller-coaster ride of entrepreneurship amidst the 2008 economic crash, she wasn't just chasing a dream—she was leaping into a new reality. Our latest episode zeros in on Starla's unguarded revelations about the lessons learned through her coaching business's evolution. From trusting her gut over traditional business plans to nurturing invaluable relationships with an advisory board, Starla's narrative brims with the tenacity and wisdom only found on the front lines of self-made success.

Scaling a business isn't for the faint of heart, and Starla unpacks the intricacies of growth with the precision of a seasoned pro. She shares the significance of having a board of advisors—each a maestro in their realm—and how this council helped her filter through the cacophony of entrepreneurship advice. There's a moment in every business owner's journey where you must decide between deep involvement or expansion, and Starla was no exception. Her candid insights give a sneak peek into the critical decisions and the strategic moves she made to ensure her business thrived without losing its soul.

The conversation takes a profound turn as we venture into the realms of marketing authenticity, pricing strategies, and the promising field of psychedelic integration coaching. Starla's personal experiences and forward-thinking approach exemplify how one's values and business acumen can unite to chart a course through uncertain waters. Whether she's navigating the complexities of networking or contemplating the integration of psychedelics into her practice, Starla's pioneering spirit and commitment to authentic growth are nothing short of inspiring. Join us as we uncover these riveting developments in the world of personal and entrepreneurial breakthroughs.

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When the going gets tough, they say, the tough get going. Amy Kandrac embodies this adage, turning a deeply personal challenge into 'What Friends Do', a robust support network born from the chaos of a health crisis. Join us as Amy takes us through her entrepreneurial odyssey, from the platform's early days before smartphone ubiquity to its transformation into a sustainable modern business model. Her journey is a heartfelt testament to the resilience required in the startup world, especially within the software industry in the Midwest. As she shares the hurdles of growth, funding, and the switch from nonprofit fundraising, Amy's story offers a candid look into the adaptability needed when your venture is as personal as it is professional.

Navigating the waters of a family-run business has its unique trials and triumphs, as Amy deftly illustrates. The blending of personal connections into professional ones can either be a recipe for success or a potential minefield. This episode peels back the layers of this delicate dynamic, discussing the challenges of managing relationships and the subtle art of maintaining friendships and family amidst business pressures. Additionally, we delve into the world of venture funding from a female entrepreneur's perspective, celebrating Amy's status as the first woman in Indiana to secure such funding and discussing how she managed to break through barriers that many women in business face today.

The conversation doesn't shy away from the leadership labyrinth—balancing the need for confidence with the humility of seeking support. Amy's insight into fostering a culture of compassion within her company and the broader business community sets an example for all leaders. Coupled with her vision to extend 'What Friends Do' on a global scale and the introduction of a new concierge service, Amy's drive to innovate support networks has the potential to revolutionize how we help each other through life's toughest challenges. So, tune in to hear how one woman's mission to provide a lifeline for those in need has blossomed into a life-changing enterprise for many.

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Embarking on a quest for entrepreneurial wisdom and personal transformation, we traverse the highs and lows of business growth and self-discovery with Zach Jones. The narrative weaves a tapestry of creative ambition and leadership evolution, transitioning from corporate structure to the rhythm of hip-hop production and back again. Our candid discussion sheds light on mentorship's profound influence, the art of conflict resolution, and the power of embracing one's weaknesses to uncover new strengths.

Within this episode's harmonious blend of personal anecdotes and professional insights, Zach reveals his personal rollercoaster ride—from mastering payroll management with no prior knowledge to flourishes of transparency and direct engagement that shaped his journey in the financial sector. Zach's eclectic and creative voyage underscores the authenticity that fuels his musical endeavors, as we examine the role of experiential learning and an instinctual knack for sales in crafting his unique hip-hop identity among the many other hats he wears with pride.

Join us as we examine the psychological nuances of color in branding, the balancing act of personal and professional growth, and a little sneak peak at Zach's music chops. Join us in celebrating the enduring spirit of tenacity and the rich rewards found in the odyssey of ownership at any level.