Episodes

  • S1Ep212 Franchise Growth Strategies with Ted Speers

    S1Ep212 Franchise Growth Strategies with Ted Speers
    Dec 19 2024
    Franchise growth can feel like a balancing act between expanding operations and maintaining quality. Many franchise systems face challenges such as scaling effectively, fostering collaboration among franchisees, and navigating a competitive market. Understanding the strategies that contribute to sustainable growth is crucial for long-term success. A thriving franchise requires more than just adding locations; it demands systems that empower franchisees and create consistency across the brand. For brands like The Patch Boys, focusing on communication and a supportive culture has proven vital. Strong relationships between franchisees and leadership, coupled with robust operational systems, are essential to building a network that not only grows but also thrives. Strategic thinking and adaptability often define success in franchising. Facing industry challenges such as staffing shortages, increased competition, and evolving customer expectations requires innovative solutions. The importance of recruiting skilled professionals, implementing effective marketing, and maintaining high standards for customer experience cannot be overstated. These efforts ensure that the franchise remains competitive while meeting the needs of its customers. Franchisees benefit from being part of a system that prioritizes collaboration. Sharing best practices, creating feedback loops, and fostering a sense of community helps elevate performance across the board. By encouraging open communication and innovation, franchise brands can harness the collective expertise of their network to drive continued success. Every franchisor must find ways to balance short-term wins with long-term sustainability. Strategic growth strategies address these dual goals, ensuring that the brand remains competitive while continuing to serve its franchisees effectively. Creating repeatable processes, investing in marketing, and nurturing franchisee relationships all play a role in building a resilient franchise system. Challenges such as recruitment and lead generation are inevitable, but they also present opportunities for innovation. Brands that establish clear systems and maintain strong franchisee support can position themselves to navigate these challenges with confidence. It is through adaptability and forward-thinking strategies that franchises build a foundation for sustained growth. Watch the full interview on YouTube. Don’t miss future episodes of Fordify LIVE!. Join Ford Saeks every Wednesday at 11 AM Central on your favorite social platforms and catch The Business Growth Show Podcast every Thursday for a weekly dose of business growth wisdom. About Ted Speers Ted Speers is the accomplished brand president of The Patch Boys, a leading national franchise specializing in drywall repair. With over 25 years of experience, Ted has honed his expertise in franchise development, professional sports, and marketing services. His career includes leadership roles with prominent organizations like Little Caesars Pizza, the Detroit Red Wings, and the Colorado Avalanche. Under his leadership, The Patch Boys has grown from 35 to over 100 franchise locations, earning their reputation as a trusted name in home services. Ted is passionate about fostering collaboration within the franchisee community, building scalable systems, and driving sustainable growth for the brand. As part of the BELFOR Franchise Group, Ted has helped position The Patch Boys alongside other complementary home service brands to provide comprehensive customer solutions. Through his dedication to innovation and strategic leadership, Ted continues to shape the future of franchising while empowering franchisees to succeed. Find out more about The Patch Boys Franchise and The BELFOR Franchising Group. About Ford Saeks Ford Saeks is a Business Growth Accelerator with over 20 years of proven expertise, having generated more than a billion dollars in sales worldwide for businesses ranging from innovative start-ups to established Fortune 500 companies. As the President and CEO of Prime Concepts Group, Inc., Ford specializes in helping organizations attract loyal customers, increase brand awareness, and drive innovation to achieve remarkable results. An entrepreneurial force, Ford has founded over ten companies, authored five impactful books, secured three U.S. patents, and earned numerous industry accolades. His cutting-edge insights extend to the field of AI prompt engineering, where he has become a leading voice in leveraging AI to create engaging content that fuels business growth. Recently, Ford shared his expertise at the prestigious “Unleash AI for Business Summit,” where he explored the transformative impact of ChatGPT on operations, marketing, and customer experiences. With a track record of success and a passion for empowering others, Ford Saeks continues to redefine what it means to achieve sustainable business growth. To learn more, visit ProfitRichResults.com or watch his TV ...
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    28 mins
  • S1Ep211 Building Supportive Franchise Partnerships for Success with Joe Mohay

    S1Ep211 Building Supportive Franchise Partnerships for Success with Joe Mohay
    Dec 12 2024
    In the competitive world of franchising, success relies on more than just great products or services—it’s about building supportive franchise partnerships. These partnerships form the foundation for sustainable growth, ensuring that both franchisors and franchisees have the resources and collaboration needed to thrive. On this week’s episode of Fordify LIVE!, host Ford Saeks welcomes digital marketing expert Joe Mohay to explore how collaboration between franchisors and franchisees drives franchise development, local marketing success, and long-term growth. A franchisee’s success is often tied to their ability to stand out in local markets. However, achieving visibility requires more than individual effort. Joe Mohay emphasizes that supportive franchise partnerships are essential for creating a shared vision and achieving mutual goals. These partnerships bridge the gap between the franchisor’s overarching strategy and the franchisee’s local execution, enabling a seamless alignment that benefits both parties. For franchisors, the focus often starts with franchise development—attracting the right candidates to grow the brand. The right partnerships ensure that prospective franchisees not only see the value in joining the organization but also feel confident in the support they’ll receive once they are part of the system. Joe highlights that franchisors who invest in robust support systems and collaborative relationships from the start are better positioned to attract motivated, high-performing franchisees. Franchisees, in turn, benefit from these partnerships when it comes to building a strong local presence. A key element of this success is an optimized online strategy. Joe discusses how franchisors and franchisees can work together to leverage tools like local SEO, Google Business Profiles, and localized content. By using the franchisor’s digital authority and brand strength as a springboard, franchisees can achieve higher Google rankings, attract local customers, and build credibility within their communities. A well-optimized Google Business Profile (GBP) is a particularly powerful tool for franchisees. Joe explains that a fully optimized GBP serves as a virtual storefront, offering potential customers critical information such as hours of operation, reviews, photos, and promotions. Franchisees who work with supportive franchisors to maintain and update their profiles consistently can significantly boost their visibility and customer engagement. Beyond digital strategies, supportive franchise partnerships are built on consistent communication and collaboration. Franchisors play a pivotal role in equipping franchisees with the tools they need to succeed, whether through personalized marketing strategies, access to data-driven insights, or ongoing training and resources. Joe emphasizes that these efforts should go beyond the initial onboarding phase and continue throughout the life of the partnership. This sustained support ensures franchisees can adapt to changes in the market and consistently meet their business goals. Ford Saeks adds to the conversation by focusing on the buyer’s journey and the importance of tailoring efforts to meet the needs of customers at every stage. Whether it’s helping franchisees attract customers in their local markets or guiding potential franchise candidates through the decision-making process, these partnerships are the backbone of a thriving franchise system. Ford and Joe agree that supportive franchise partnerships are not just about solving immediate challenges but also about building a framework for long-term success. These partnerships also foster a sense of trust and alignment that’s critical for navigating challenges. Franchisees often face unique hurdles, from understanding local customer behavior to managing competition in their market. Franchisors who prioritize open dialogue and problem-solving help franchisees feel supported and empowered, which ultimately strengthens the entire franchise network. The conversation also touches on the evolving role of technology in franchising. With tools like AI and data analytics becoming increasingly prevalent, franchisors and franchisees have access to more insights than ever before. Joe notes that supportive franchise partnerships are essential for integrating these tools effectively, ensuring that franchisees can use them to make informed decisions without feeling overwhelmed. Whether you're a franchisor, franchisee, or entrepreneur, this episode of Fordify LIVE! offers invaluable insights into the power of collaboration. Building supportive franchise partnerships isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a must for achieving growth, sustaining franchise development, and ensuring long-term success. Watch the full interview on YouTube! Join Fordify LIVE! Every Wednesday at 11AM Central on your favorite social platforms and catch The Business Growth Show Podcast every Thursday for a weekly dose of ...
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    33 mins
  • S1 Ep210 Personal Branding for Business Growth with Rory Vaden

    S1 Ep210 Personal Branding for Business Growth with Rory Vaden
    Dec 5 2024
    Are you struggling to grow your business and wondering how to stand out in a crowded marketplace? In today’s competitive environment, building a strong personal brand has become an essential tool for entrepreneurs, leaders, and business owners to differentiate themselves and drive growth. Personal branding goes beyond having a logo or a website—it’s about building a reputation that resonates with your audience and establishes trust. In this episode of Fordify LIVE, Rory Vaden, co-founder of Brand Builders Group, dives into the critical role that personal branding plays in business growth and long-term success. Personal branding is not just for influencers or celebrities; it’s a powerful asset for any business leader looking to expand their reach. Rory emphasizes that people don’t just buy products or services—they buy into the people behind them. Your personal brand serves as the bridge between who you are and the value you provide to your audience. If you’re looking to build a brand that attracts the right clients and generates more opportunities, the discussion with Rory outlines why focusing on personal branding is one of the smartest moves you can make for your business. One of the key challenges business owners face is finding clarity in their messaging. Rory’s insights into personal branding highlight the importance of defining your unique value and being intentional about how you communicate it. By focusing on your core message, your personal brand can become a powerful tool for cutting through the noise and connecting with the people who matter most to your business. It’s not about being everything to everyone, but rather, being clear about who you are and what you stand for. When your personal brand reflects your authentic self, it becomes a magnet for clients, customers, and opportunities. Rory also discusses how building a personal brand goes hand in hand with credibility. It’s one thing to have expertise, but it’s another to communicate it effectively to the right audience. A strong personal brand does just that—it signals authority, trust, and reliability. Rory shares how even the most successful entrepreneurs and executives invest in personal branding as a way to continually build their influence and create lasting connections with their audience. Your personal brand is the key to establishing a strong professional presence that positions you as a leader in your industry. In addition to building credibility, personal branding also accelerates business growth by creating a foundation for long-term relationships. When people trust your brand and believe in your message, they’re more likely to remain loyal and recommend your services to others. Rory explains how personal branding is not a one-time effort; it’s an ongoing process of refining your message, expanding your reach, and consistently delivering value. This approach leads to exponential growth, as your personal brand continues to evolve and attract more opportunities over time. The conversation with Rory underscores the importance of personal branding as a strategic investment in your business. As more entrepreneurs recognize the value of branding themselves, those who take the time to build their personal brand now will be better positioned to grow their influence and achieve long-term success. By honing in on your story, your message, and the value you bring to the table, you can create a brand that not only drives business growth but also sets you apart from the competition. Watch the full episode on YouTube. If you’ve been wondering how to elevate your business and make a lasting impact in your industry, investing in personal branding is the way forward. It’s not just about visibility; it’s about creating meaningful connections with your audience and leaving a lasting impression. Don’t miss future episodes of Fordify LIVE! Join us every Wednesday at 11 AM Central on your favorite social platforms and catch The Business Growth Show Podcast every Thursday for more strategies and insights to fuel your business success. About Rory Vaden Rory Vaden is a renowned expert in personal branding and co-founder of Brand Builders Group, the world’s leader in personal brand strategy. Rory and his team help mission-driven individuals expand their reach, grow their income, and make a positive impact by teaching them how to build and monetize their personal brand. From high-profile clients like Lewis Howes, Ed Mylett, and Amy Porterfield to aspiring entrepreneurs, Brand Builders Group has helped countless people turn their reputation into revenue. Rory’s first book, Take the Stairs, became a #1 Wall Street Journal, #1 USA Today, and #2 New York Times bestseller, with translations in 11 languages. Known for his powerful message of doing what’s right even when it’s difficult, Rory has delivered keynote speeches on leadership, sales, productivity, and personal growth to audiences around the globe. He is ...
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    41 mins
  • S1Ep209 Leadership Through Connection with Julie Lee

    S1Ep209 Leadership Through Connection with Julie Lee
    Nov 28 2024
    Are you struggling to build trust and foster authentic relationships within your team? Many leaders find it difficult to inspire their teams beyond basic task management, but true leadership is built on creating meaningful connections that motivate people to perform at their best. Julie Lee, an expert on leadership and human connection, champions an approach that goes beyond traditional leadership tactics, focusing on leadership through connection as the key to long-term success. Leadership today is about much more than driving productivity or hitting goals—it's about understanding the importance of empathy and compassion in the workplace. Julie’s philosophy emphasizes that leadership through connection allows leaders to cultivate an environment where employees feel valued, heard, and supported. Leaders who prioritize relationships can foster greater innovation, collaboration, and loyalty within their teams. When people feel genuinely connected to their leaders, they are more willing to go above and beyond, which drives both individual and organizational growth. One of the most critical elements of leadership through connection is trust. Building trust requires leaders to engage with their teams on a personal level, not just through professional interaction. This goes beyond open-door policies or occasional check-ins. Julie’s approach involves actively listening to team members and demonstrating genuine care for their well-being. Trust grows when employees know their leaders see them as individuals, not just resources. This human-centered approach helps resolve conflicts more effectively, keeps morale high, and encourages long-term loyalty. Communication is at the heart of leadership through connection. It’s easy to overlook the importance of active listening, but leaders who listen with intent can transform their team's dynamics. Authentic communication creates a culture where employees feel safe to voice concerns, share ideas, and take risks. When leaders foster a sense of belonging and value through empathetic communication, team members become more invested in the success of the business. This approach doesn't just improve workplace atmosphere—it also leads to higher levels of engagement and better overall performance. Managing through connection is particularly important when dealing with conflict. Rather than allowing issues to fester, leaders who adopt a connection-first mindset can address challenges head-on while strengthening relationships. Leadership through connection is about fostering a culture where difficult conversations lead to growth and development rather than division. By creating a foundation of trust and respect, leaders can navigate even the most challenging situations with confidence, knowing that their team is committed to finding solutions together. In today’s evolving business landscape, leadership through connection is a powerful strategy for leaders seeking to build resilient, motivated teams. Julie’s framework offers a way to balance compassion with accountability, showing that strong relationships don’t just benefit employee well-being—they also drive business success. Leaders who invest time in connecting with their team members will see the long-term payoff in increased productivity, lower turnover, and a more collaborative work environment. This approach is a shift from traditional leadership models that focus solely on outcomes and efficiency. By prioritizing connection, leaders can achieve the same results while creating a healthier, more engaged workforce. Leadership through connection shows that when people feel genuinely cared for, they contribute more meaningfully to the team’s success. Watch the full episode on YouTube. Don’t miss future episodes of Fordify LIVE! Join us every Wednesday at 11 AM Central on your favorite social platforms and tune in to The Business Growth Show Podcast every Thursday for actionable strategies and insights designed to help you grow your business and lead more effectively. About Julie Lee Julie Lee’s personal journey with the power of human connection has shaped her mission to transform leadership and workplace culture. As a keynote speaker and author, Julie helps leaders infuse their organizations with authentic connection to improve mental health and unlock peak performance within their teams. Her impactful message is rooted in her own life experiences, where connection not only saved her but also altered the course of her career. Julie is the author of I See You: How Compassion and Connection Save Lives, and the children’s book Broccolipunzle: A Girl with Extraordinary Hair. She hosts the inspiring I See You podcast, which has reached thousands of listeners with its message of thriving in relationships through compassion and connection. In addition, Julie co-hosts the podcast Love, ADHD, where she advocates for positive, supportive conversations around mental health. Julie also serves as the Head ...
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    37 mins
  • S1Ep208 Mastering Multi-Unit Franchising Success with Jerry Akers

    S1Ep208 Mastering Multi-Unit Franchising Success with Jerry Akers
    Nov 21 2024
    Are you facing the challenges of scaling your franchise while maintaining consistency and growth? Many business owners struggle with the delicate balance of managing multiple franchise locations without sacrificing quality or profitability. Jerry Akers, a multi-brand franchisee and co-author of Live It to Own It, offers a unique perspective on franchise success and sustainable growth. Through his experience building and managing over 34 Great Clips locations, Jerry provides a blueprint for achieving success in the franchise world, especially for those looking to scale across multiple states. Franchise success doesn't come without its hurdles. Jerry's journey began with a single struggling location. Instead of letting the challenge define him, he dug in to assess what needed to change, both operationally and in terms of leadership. One of the first steps in achieving franchise success is recognizing the importance of building a strong team. Jerry emphasizes the value of creating a company culture that empowers employees to take ownership of their roles. By doing so, franchisees can replicate consistent and high-quality customer experience across all locations, ensuring that growth doesn’t compromise service or efficiency. Another crucial element of franchise success is the ability to adapt to different markets while keeping the brand's core values intact. Jerry speaks to the necessity of understanding regional differences in customer behavior, local regulations, and marketing approaches. His approach to franchise success includes tailoring strategies to meet the unique needs of each community, without deviating from the brand’s established principles. This adaptability has allowed Jerry to scale his franchise portfolio while keeping each location profitable and connected to its local market. Jerry also highlights the importance of operational efficiency in scaling franchises. As a business expands, franchise owners must streamline processes to manage costs and maintain quality. Jerry’s experience with Great Clips demonstrates how optimizing supply chains, investing in technology, and implementing scalable systems are key to running multiple locations successfully. By automating routine tasks and using data-driven insights, franchisees can focus on growth opportunities rather than getting bogged down in day-to-day operations. Franchise success, as Jerry outlines, requires a deep understanding of both the franchise model and the people driving it. For entrepreneurs, building a network of franchisees who share the same vision and values is critical. Jerry stresses that success in franchising is not just about following a blueprint but about fostering relationships with franchisees and helping them succeed individually. When franchisees are supported and empowered, they become invested in the business's long-term growth, ultimately contributing to the overall success of the brand. One of the biggest challenges in franchise success is navigating the highs and lows of the industry. Jerry’s leadership philosophy revolves around resilience and adaptability. Throughout his career, he’s encountered market fluctuations, economic downturns, and operational challenges, yet his focus on problem-solving and leadership has allowed him to stay ahead. For those looking to scale a franchise, Jerry’s experience offers a wealth of practical insights on how to stay resilient, maintain a positive culture, and build a business that thrives regardless of external challenges. Jerry Akers' approach to franchise success is a reminder that growth and scalability don’t come from shortcuts, but from thoughtful leadership, strong relationships, and a commitment to excellence. Whether you’re looking to expand your franchise or just beginning your journey in franchising, Jerry’s strategies for achieving long-term success are applicable across industries. His ability to balance operational efficiency with maintaining personal relationships within his business is what sets him apart as a leader in the franchise world. Watch the full interview on YouTube. Don’t miss future episodes of Fordify LIVE! Join us every Wednesday at 11 AM Central on your favorite social platforms and catch The Business Growth Show Podcast every Thursday for a weekly dose of business growth wisdom tailored for entrepreneurs looking to scale and succeed. About Jerry Akers Jerry Akers is a highly respected leader in the franchise industry, sought out by independent businesses across the country for his expertise in multi-unit franchise operations. With a wealth of experience as a corporate executive and multi-brand franchise owner, Jerry has successfully scaled his business portfolio to include over 34 Great Clips locations and regional development for The Joint Chiropractic. A Midwest native, Jerry brings his down-to-earth leadership style to both his businesses and his consulting work, helping franchise operators across the nation achieve ...
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    29 mins
  • S1Ep207 Franchise Business Growth and Scaling Success with Jeff Gartner

    S1Ep207 Franchise Business Growth and Scaling Success with Jeff Gartner
    Nov 14 2024
    Are you struggling to figure out how to scale your franchise business while maintaining its core mission? Many entrepreneurs face the challenge of expanding without sacrificing the quality and purpose that drive their business. In an interview with Ford Saeks, Jeff Gartner, co-founder and CEO of Hudson Valley Swim, shared his journey through the world of franchise business growth, offering insights into how he transformed a simple swim lesson into a thriving franchise operation. Jeff’s story began with a personal need—ensuring his children received high-quality swim lessons—and quickly grew into something much larger. From his backyard in the Northeast, Jeff recognized a gap in the market, where the available swim instruction lacked the quality he experienced privately. This realization sparked the foundation of Hudson Valley Swim, a business that has grown from a single operation to a franchise model with eight corporate locations and six franchise locations. Jeff’s focus was never just on growth for the sake of expansion but rather on building a brand that prioritized safety and skill development in swim education. In a business built around saving lives, Jeff explains how maintaining the core mission was essential as the franchise expanded. His commitment to making sure that every location upheld the same standard of excellence that the original swim school had is a vital element in the brand’s success. For Jeff, franchise business growth wasn’t simply about opening more doors; it was about ensuring that every franchisee bought into the mission of reducing the risk of drowning through effective swim education. It’s this mission-driven focus that sets Hudson Valley Swim apart in a competitive industry, and it’s what potential franchisees must fully embrace to join the network. Scaling a franchise, however, is not without its challenges. Jeff reveals that building a foundation rooted in strong systems and processes was key to creating a replicable and scalable model. With decades of experience, he built a turnkey operation, making it easier for franchisees to start strong. From insurance to payroll, Jeff's approach was to have every system ready to go so new franchisees could focus on building their business, rather than getting bogged down in the logistics. This approach allowed his franchise to grow quickly and efficiently while maintaining the high standards of the original brand. Jeff also emphasized the importance of local community engagement in achieving long-term franchise business growth. While digital marketing plays a role, connecting directly with families through local events and partnerships has proven to be a critical component of the brand’s success. By tapping into schools, sponsoring local sports teams, and attending community events, Hudson Valley Swim builds trust with parents, positioning itself as more than just a swim school but a vital part of the community. Technology, too, plays an important role in Jeff’s model. His background in tech allowed him to streamline operations through automation, making tasks like registration and scheduling more efficient. Yet, as both he and Ford discuss, technology alone is not enough. Personal engagement and connection remain at the heart of the brand’s identity, and Jeff has been careful to ensure that while technology improves the efficiency of operations, it doesn’t replace the human touch that defines the customer experience. For many entrepreneurs, the idea of scaling a business can seem daunting. Jeff’s approach to franchise business growth offers a roadmap for how to do so with purpose. It’s not just about adding more locations but about ensuring that each new franchise is set up for success from the start. By fostering a strong sense of community, prioritizing customer relationships, and leveraging technology in thoughtful ways, Hudson Valley Swim has managed to grow without losing sight of its original mission. For business owners looking to scale, Jeff’s experience serves as a powerful example of how to combine operational excellence with a deep commitment to the values that drive the business. By putting systems in place and finding franchisees who truly align with the mission, Hudson Valley Swim continues to thrive as it expands across new markets. Watch the full interview on YouTube. Don’t miss out on future episodes of Fordify LIVE! Join us every Wednesday at 11 AM Central on your favorite social platforms, and tune in to The Business Growth Show Podcast every Thursday for a weekly dose of business growth wisdom. About Jeff Gartner Jeff Gartner is a franchisor, technologist, entrepreneur, and inventor, best known as the co-founder of Hudson Valley Swim, a premium swim lesson program launched in 2003 with a mission to save lives through high-quality swim education. In 2022, alongside his wife Joan, Jeff expanded the business into a franchise, which has since been recognized as an "emerging franchise...
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    30 mins
  • S1Ep206 Leveraging AI Tools for Business Growth and Innovation with Terry Brock

    S1Ep206 Leveraging AI Tools for Business Growth and Innovation with Terry Brock
    Nov 7 2024
    Are you struggling to figure out how to use AI tools to grow your business effectively? Many entrepreneurs are unsure how to harness AI's power to boost productivity and profitability without losing the human touch in their operations. In this weeks episode of Fordify LIVE, Terry Brock, a Hall of Fame keynote speaker, shares his expertise on how AI tools for business are transforming the landscape for companies that are ready to embrace them. If you’ve been searching for practical ways to integrate AI into your strategy, this discussion provides valuable insights into making technology work for you. AI isn’t just about replacing tasks—it’s about freeing up time and energy so business leaders can focus on high-level decision-making and growth. Tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Cast Magic have become indispensable in today’s business environment. By automating routine tasks such as content creation and data processing, these AI tools for business allow companies to operate more efficiently while still maintaining a personal, authentic connection with customers. Ford emphasizes that business owners who learn how to leverage these technologies effectively will have a significant advantage over those who resist change. Personalization remains crucial in an era where AI is widely accessible. While AI can generate ideas and initial drafts, the true value comes from how business owners tailor and enhance that content to reflect their unique brand voice. AI may provide a solid foundation, but it's the customization and personal touch that allow businesses to maintain their individuality. This ensures that, even with the efficiency and automation AI brings, companies can stand out in a crowded marketplace by preserving their distinct identity. Both Ford and Terry highlight how AI tools for business offer unparalleled opportunities for growth, but only for those willing to continuously adapt and innovate. They stress that as AI technology advances, businesses that embrace it will remain competitive, while those that hesitate may fall behind. AI is not just a tool for the future; it’s a necessity for today. Ford points out that business owners must remain open-minded, willing to experiment with new tools and techniques to find the best fit for their business model. Companies that adopt a mindset of ongoing learning will be better positioned to navigate the rapidly changing technological landscape. Terry shares examples from his experience working with major brands like Skype, AT&T, and ACE Hardware, demonstrating how AI tools for business can simplify complex workflows and improve productivity. From automating repetitive tasks to providing data-driven insights, AI helps business owners focus on what truly matters—building relationships and driving growth. Ford and Terry agree that AI is not replacing humans; rather, it is enhancing their abilities, allowing businesses to scale and innovate without losing their personal touch. AI offers exciting opportunities, but its true value comes from how it’s applied. While AI tools provide efficiency, it’s the human touch that transforms that efficiency into meaningful growth. Entrepreneurs who embrace AI tools for business can streamline operations, stay competitive, and unlock new paths to success. By combining the power of AI with personal insight, businesses can achieve long-term, sustainable growth. Watch the full episode on YouTube. For more insights from Ford and top industry experts, don’t miss future episodes of Fordify LIVE! Tune in every Wednesday at 11 AM Central on your favorite social platforms and catch The Business Growth Show Podcast every Thursday for actionable strategies to elevate your business. About Terry Brock Terry Brock is a Hall of Fame keynote speaker and a globally recognized authority on leveraging technology to drive business success. With a career spanning decades, Terry has helped organizations enhance customer engagement, boost productivity, and increase profitability through the strategic use of AI and social media. He has held influential roles such as Chief Enterprise Blogger for Skype, Editor-in-Chief for AT&T’s Networking Exchange blog, and Chief Retail Advisor for ACE Hardware. Terry’s expertise has earned him numerous accolades, including the Certified Speaking Professional designation from the National Speakers Association and inductions into both the Speakers Hall of Fame and the Virtual Speakers Hall of Fame. He is also a recipient of the prestigious Cavett Award, recognized as the National Speakers Association’s highest honor. Terry is passionate about empowering entrepreneurs and business owners to thrive in the digital age, sharing his insights through platforms like his website Stark Raving Entrepreneurs and AITools4Biz. About Ford Saeks Ford Saeks is a Business Growth Accelerator with over 20 years of experience, helping companies generate over a billion dollars in sales worldwide. As the ...
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    38 mins
  • S1Ep205 Progress Over Perfection with Matthew McReynolds

    S1Ep205 Progress Over Perfection with Matthew McReynolds
    Oct 31 2024
    Are you struggling with self-doubt or feel stuck on the path to business growth? It’s easy to get overwhelmed by perfectionism and let fears hold you back from taking that next step. In this week's episode of Fordify LIVE, Ford is joined by Matthew McReynolds, The Streetwise Franchisee, who shares his journey of embracing progress over perfection as a multi-brand franchise owner and mentor. If you’re aiming to level up your business, overcome setbacks, and create meaningful growth, this conversation provides the insight you need to start pushing forward. Matthew discusses his experiences in franchise ownership, where he’s taken the reins on businesses like Mosquito Joe, Groovy Hughes, and Lumiere Outdoor Lighting. From his first steps into entrepreneurship with his father to his present role as a mentor to other aspiring business owners, Matthew reflects on why it’s essential to prioritize progress over perfection. He explains how too many entrepreneurs get caught up in the pursuit of flawless execution, preventing them from starting or advancing. The message is clear: taking imperfect action is often the first step toward mastering any challenge and achieving genuine progress over perfection. Ford and Matthew touch on the mindset needed to push through self-doubt and persist, even when faced with failures. Matthew shares how his background in athletics and coaching taught him that growth often comes from repeated efforts rather than immediate successes. He emphasizes that moving forward, even through missteps, allows you to gain the experience necessary to become resilient. The balance between planning and doing is crucial; waiting for the “perfect” moment usually results in missed opportunities. Instead, taking action, learning along the way, and adjusting strategies over time proves to be a more effective approach for embodying progress over perfection and achieving long-term success. Matthew shared how challenges can become catalysts for growth, drawing from his own entry into franchising. With limited experience, he navigated the uncertainties of launching a new business, but rather than letting obstacles hold him back, he viewed them as essential learning experiences. This mindset sharpened his skills and bolstered his resilience, ultimately shaping the trajectory of his career. By leaning into pain-points instead of shying away, he not only strengthened his own business practices but also developed the ability to guide others through similar hurdles. His approach offers a valuable lesson for entrepreneurs: embracing discomfort is a vital part of practicing progress over perfection, paving the way to stronger and more effective business strategies. Mentorship and mastermind groups emerged as crucial elements in Matthew’s approach to business growth. He explains how tapping into the collective wisdom of like-minded individuals provides the momentum and motivation needed to push forward. For Matthew, being a “serial mentee” is a cornerstone of his philosophy, as he continually seeks to learn from others and apply new insights to reach his goals. He credits mentorship with shaping his trajectory, refining his strategies, and offering the clarity needed to navigate the complexities of business ownership. This mindset aligns perfectly with the principle of progress over perfection, where continuous learning and growth are prioritized over getting everything right the first time. It’s all too easy for business owners to get caught up in the day-to-day grind and lose sight of the bigger picture. Matthew emphasizes the importance of focusing on high-value activities rather than getting bogged down in tasks that could be delegated or outsourced. Shifting attention away from low impact “$25 tasks” allows entrepreneurs to concentrate on strategic actions that genuinely move the needle. Prioritizing efforts that align with long-term goals accelerates growth by fostering a mindset of progress over perfection, where progress is more important than chasing unattainable standards. Matthew’s experiences illustrate that success is built on a series of imperfect actions, each contributing to growth and resilience. Even small, incremental steps can create significant momentum over time. He encourages entrepreneurs to rethink how they approach their work, challenging them to let go of the fear of failure and embrace the value of taking action, no matter how imperfect. The focus is not on flawless execution but on continually moving forward to achieving meaningful results, embodying progress over perfection in every decision and action. Watch the full episode on YouTube. Catch future episodes of Fordify LIVE every Wednesday at 11 AM Central across your favorite social platforms and tune in to The Business Growth Show Podcast every Thursday for a weekly dose of business growth wisdom. Don’t miss the opportunity to engage in insightful discussions that can help you take your business to the ...
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    43 mins