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Gresham Harkless begins by referencing Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, which speaks about different seasons in life—times of joy, struggle, growth, and loss.   He highlights the challenge of accepting that not every moment is about success or reaping rewards; sometimes, life requires patience and perseverance through tough times.   Gresham recognizes that it can feel like something is wrong when facing difficulties, but it’s often just part of the cycle of life.   Gresham shares his story about a missed call with a potential candidate, a situation that reinforced his understanding of reliability in sales and consulting.   He also mentions how the unexpected people sometimes succeed, while the ones he is rooting for may not. Gresham reflects on how this past year has been one of the most challenging for him.   He identifies that life comes in seasons of highs and lows, and understanding these patterns can help provide context and resilience. Gresham writes motivational reminders on his bathroom mirror, and this week’s mes

Amrit Dhaliwal is an innovative entrepreneur leading Walfinch, a premium home care franchise in the UK.   Amrit's entrepreneurial spirit began at a young age, when he was 8, and he started trading Ryan Giggs posters in the playground. After university, he worked in various businesses, including cafes and delis, winning business awards by his early twenties.   Walfinch now has a turnover of £18 million, with 36 locations and 32 franchisees. Amrit's leadership helped the company secure recognition on the UK's Fast Growth Index and in the Home Care Insight Power List.   Amrit stresses the importance of being selective with franchisees. He takes a hands-on approach to understanding each potential franchisee’s alignment with the company's values.   Amrit highlights the importance of having a mentor or coach. This advisor helps keep him accountable, offers advice, and warns him of challenges before they arise.   He emphasizes that leadership, problem-solving, resource allocation, and talent acquisition are essentia

Susan Levin is an expert consultant with over 25 years of experience working with thousands of employees across 40 countries.    Susan specializes in helping organizations recognize employee strengths, improve productivity, enhance teamwork, and provide strategic solutions.    She also teaches at Columbia University and is passionate about unleashing the authenticity of her clients to help them achieve their goals.   Susan explains her approach to coaching, mediation, and facilitation. She works collaboratively with clients to create co-designed strategies, focusing on activating their existing wisdom and strengths.   Susan believes that when people can show up as their true selves, they can contribute more effectively and feel more satisfied with their work.   She recommends platforms like Miro and Mentimeter, which allow participants to co-create and synthesize ideas in real time, making decision-making more efficient and informed.   Furthermore, Susan advocates taking risks and trying new opportunities, ev

Vikram Rajan is a co-founder of PhoneBlogger.net and VideoSocials.net—two marketing services tailored for attorneys, accountants, and consultants.   Vikram has been featured in Forbes and other major publications, and he shares his journey from working with his father, a management consultant, to launching his businesses focused on word-of-mouth referral marketing.   Vikram explains how he initially helped attorneys and accountants with marketing but soon realized the challenges of content creation, leading to the development of PhoneBlogger.net.   Vikram and his team created VideoSocials.net, a platform where professionals can record video blogs in a supportive, collaborative setting via Zoom.   Vikram credits his success to three core principles: convenience, comfort, and community. He believes that empowering his team through delegation and a strong company culture is key to business growth.   Website: Videosocials  LinkedIn: Vikram Rajan   Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter wi

Michael Blank is a successful entrepreneur, investor, and author specializing in apartment investing. He is the CEO of Nighthawk Equity, author of Financial Freedom with Real Estate Investing, and host of the Apartment Building Investing podcast.   He shares how his journey began in software development, leading to a lucrative IPO, only to realize that true wealth comes from passive income.   After reading Rich Dad Poor Dad, Michael shifted to real estate, initially investing in single-family homes before recognizing the greater potential in multifamily properties.    Despite setbacks—including a failed restaurant venture that cost him millions—he successfully pivoted to apartment investing.    Michael emphasizes the "Law of the First Deal"—a concept highlighting how securing the first investment accelerates financial independence.   Michael explains why single-family rentals often fail to provide true freedom and how apartment buildings offer a more scalable, sustainable path.   He also shares his top succes

Gresham Harkless is conducting a brand presentation for a candidate but isn’t certain they will move forward. He views this as part of his learning process, gaining valuable experience through repeated practice.   Gresham recognizes that some candidates may seem like a perfect fit but don’t work out, while others may unexpectedly succeed.   He underscores the importance of customized presentations tailored to territories, business relationships, and cultural fit.   Gresham acknowledges that growth takes time—about 40 days post-training, he’s seeing movement but not at full speed yet. Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: https://bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: http://bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - http://franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless is nearing day 40 of his journey and considers himself "ready" to start after completing training. He has an upcoming presentation and is preparing a deck for it.   Gresham acknowledges the challenge of juggling multiple responsibilities, citing the quote, "He or she who chases two rabbits catches none."   He intends to refine his focus through a "detox" process—eliminating unnecessary distractions and making tough decisions about what to prioritize.   Gresham also mentions dealing with an issue at his rental property, which adds another demand on his time and energy, reinforcing the need for clear priorities.   In addition, Gresham emphasizes the importance of simplifying tasks and focusing on essential goals, particularly as he moves into his next 12-week planning cycle. Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: https://bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: http://bluestarfran

Gresham Harkless shares his experience with Google Ads, noting that while he has heard mixed reviews, he sees some leads.   He emphasizes the importance of exploring multiple lead generation avenues rather than relying on just one method.   Gresham highlights that in the early stages of a business, testing and iterating are crucial for finding the best strategy.   Gresham acknowledges that marketing for niche audiences (like aspiring entrepreneurs) is challenging since it targets a small subset of people.   Gresham underscores that the "grass isn’t always greener on the other side" when switching strategies too quickly. Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: https://bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: http://bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - http://franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your o

Cahill Camden is an entrepreneur who helps business leaders grow their brand and authority through podcast appearances, PR, and LinkedIn strategies.   He founded the AI-powered tools EchoJockey and PressJockey, which automate podcast and PR placements.   Cahill emphasizes that AI should be seen as an enhancement, not a replacement for human connection.   He believes that founders should take the initiative to drive their vision while fostering genuine connections.   Additionally, Cahill points out that as AI-generated content floods the internet, authentic human connections will become even more valuable.    LinkedIn: Cahill Camden   Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, f

Steve Durbin is recognized for his ability to modernize financial ecosystems, integrating traditional and decentralized finance (DeFi) with a focus on transparency, accessibility, and resilience.   Steve is the President of Quail Bend Capital Partners, a private equity firm he founded in 2010, which has investments in fin-tech and mining, including a controlling interest in Save Daily Holdings.   He holds an economics degree from Harvard University and serves on the boards of Save Daily Holdings, Electric Metals, and Blackjack Silver.   Steve emphasizes the importance of solving real problems rather than convincing people they need a product.    Furthermore, his approach to leadership includes daily reflection, meticulous task management, and surrounding himself with hardworking, trustworthy individuals.    Website: RYTchain  LinkedIn: Steve Durbin   Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3

Mark Anderson has had a distinguished career in law enforcement and investigations, spanning over 30 years.    His roles have included working as a Senior Special Agent for the U.S. Department of Justice, the FBI, and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, along with experience as a forensic chemist. He also served as the Deputy Inspector General for New York State.   After retiring, Mark and his wife co-founded Anderson Investigative Associates, a small business that provides tailored training for interviews and investigations to various clients.   Mark emphasizes the importance of non-confrontational interview techniques, explaining that effective communication goes beyond law enforcement and applies to everyday human interactions and business dealings.   Mark uses real-world scenarios to teach interviewing, often making parallels to childhood experiences of dishonesty. The firm coined the term LLPOF (Liar, Liar, Pants on Fire) to describe individuals who are being dishonest during interviews.   He also points

Dr. Fern Kazlow (Dr. K) is a licensed clinical psychotherapist, speaker, author, and business mentor. She is the founder of the No Doubt Zone and works with high-performing individuals, particularly entrepreneurs, to help them overcome stress and mental blocks while enhancing their personal and professional lives.   She combined her expertise in therapy with marketing, helping high performers such as entrepreneurs and health professionals navigate business and personal challenges.   Dr. Fern addresses underlying issues, rather than focusing on surface-level mindset shifts, which sets her apart from others who might only focus on motivation.   Additionally, Dr. Fern recommends entrepreneurs trust themselves more, develop discernment, and follow their intuition—skills that help them make better decisions and avoid distractions.   Website: Dr. Fern Kazlow  LinkedIn: Dr. Fern Kazlow (Dr.K)   Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up

In this special episode, Gresham shares his journey of noticing fluctuations in his blood sugar, despite being active and working out regularly. He was recently diagnosed as pre-diabetic, which surprised him since he exercises about 4-5 times a week and follows a meal prep routine.   Gresham affirms the significance of knowing your health numbers (like glucose levels) and filling up your "cup" (maintaining your health and well-being) to be the best version of yourself.   Gresham explains the concept of one-person businesses, driven by technological developments and the ability to run niche businesses efficiently. He covers how this idea ties into his podcast, which was created to explore entrepreneurship and the role of CEOs in small-scale businesses.   Gresham mentions his analysis of virtual webinars, software tools, and other digital strategies to generate leads and business prospects. Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: https://bluestarfranchise.com/franch

Gresham Harkless delves into the importance of leveraging Virtual Assistants, especially in businesses like franchise brokerage or digital marketing.   He highlights how VAs can help amplify productivity by taking over tasks that otherwise consume valuable time, allowing business owners to focus on higher-priority activities.   Gresham shares that he’s moving toward co-brokering deals instead of trying to control every part of the process.   Moreover, he advocates hiring a VA as soon as possible, even if it's just for a few hours a week, to gain experience in managing remote workers. This experience is invaluable for understanding how to oversee tasks and communicate effectively with people working remotely.   Gresham explains how his VA Leona helps manage the CRM system by taking calls and following up on leads, so he can focus on generating new opportunities.    He reiterates the value of delegating office tasks to free up more time for growth-driving activities, such as lead generation or working with pote

Gresham Harkless discusses how business is about finding opportunities and doing things differently, even if it means going against the grain.    He believes innovation in business doesn’t always mean creating entirely new technologies but can also involve approaching things in unique ways, especially in execution.    Gresham shares the emotional toll of losing his dog and his grandmother to cancer. This experience has deeply impacted him and shaped how he thinks about his work.   Gresham is dedicated to honoring their memory by naming his business or initiatives "Blue Star" and plans to donate a portion of his earnings to cancer research and treatments for both humans and animals.   Likewise, Gresham shares a personal story of feeling this way but reminds himself (and others) to embrace authenticity. He emphasizes the importance of being true to yourself and not conforming to what others expect or think you should be. Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: https:/

Idan Shpizear is the founder and CEO of 911 Restoration, a top disaster restoration company in the U.S. He started with little—just an $800 Volvo and a carpet cleaning business—and built it into a national franchise.   911 Restoration focuses on helping homeowners and businesses recover from disasters, emphasizing a "fresh start" philosophy.   Idan also founded Milestone SEO and Gazingle, a CRM platform for improving business operations. His approach is centered around innovation, mentorship, and problem-solving.   Idan believes that the key to success is adding value consistently, not just in terms of service but also by fostering strong relationships with clients and team members.   He emphasizes the importance of aligning the entire team with the company’s vision, and that true leadership comes from helping others discover the leader within themselves, which he considers a "blessing."   Website: 911 Restoration  LinkedIn: Idan Shpizear   Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with

Susie Hewson established Natracare, a brand that manufactures organic and environmentally-conscious period care products.    Susie is recognized for her environmental activism and has been awarded numerous accolades, including an MBE from King Charles III for her work in women's health and the environment.   In the late '80s, Susie was motivated by the harmful chemicals used in conventional period care products.    Her company’s mission was to create products that were free from chlorine bleach, plastic, and other toxic materials, focusing instead on biodegradable and eco-friendly solutions.   Susie highlights the importance of community connection, noting how COVID-19 reminded people of the importance of human interaction.   Susie emphasizes that the success of her business is grounded in values and ethics. Her leadership is focused on creating a business environment where people are aligned with the company’s mission and feel empowered to contribute to its success.   Website: Natracare  LinkedIn: Susie Hews

Lorena Tomasini owns MALM Life and Health Insurance Agency in Miami, Florida. With over 12 years of experience in the insurance industry, she helps families and business owners with financial protection.    Lorena also hosts the "12-Minute Podcast," where she speaks with entrepreneurs about problem-solving.   Lorena highlights that many people are unprepared for catastrophic events like health issues or death, which can be devastating both personally and financially.   She explains that financial protection, like the products they offer, can help individuals and families avoid going into debt or relying on crowdfunding in times of crisis.   Lorena shares a key takeaway from attending the 10X conference, which was about focusing on daily activities rather than outcomes.   She emphasizes that building trust and relationships with clients takes time, and follow-up is crucial.    Moreover, Lorena points out the importance of maintaining a solutions-focused mindset rather than complaining when challenges arise.  

Nahamani Yisrael is an Organizational Development Consultant and Senior Webmaster at Nahamani.org.    Nahamani holds a BSBA from Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio, and is a certified Ice House Entrepreneurship Program Facilitator.   She was recognized as one of Natural Woman Magazine's Top 10 Women of the Year in 2017 and 100 Wise Women of Cincinnati in 2018.   Nahamani explains that she started Nahamani.org to help small businesses and nonprofits communicate their value, build good websites, and solve problems as they grow.   She emphasizes that businesses often struggle to take an objective view of their operations, particularly at the 3-5 year mark, and that's where consulting services like hers are crucial.   Nahamani builds genuine relationships from networking events by following up with people she meets, providing value, and fostering long-term connections.   She reflects on times when fear prevented her from taking opportunities, and she urges others to face their fears head-on.   Furthermore, Nah

Gresham reflects on one of the challenging aspects of entrepreneurship and personal growth—knowing when to pivot or stop.   Gresham explains that society often teaches us not to quit, but there’s a time for persistence and knowing when to let go.   He emphasizes that complexity can be a barrier, so simplifying processes is essential. Simplification doesn’t mean lowering standards; it’s about making things easier for your team and customers.   Gresham recommends that having boundaries—such as simplifying a process—can increase creativity.   He underscores the importance of having faith—not only in the process but also in yourself. If a pivot doesn’t work out, it doesn’t mean failure; it’s just part of the journey.   Gresham highlights the significance of understanding the why behind what you're doing, rather than getting bogged down in the how. Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: https://bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out