Summary In this episode of the Abundant Journey podcast, hosts Nick James and Nick Aufenkamp welcome David Metter, an accomplished entrepreneur and business leader. David shares his journey from a young paperboy with an entrepreneurial spirit to a successful sales manager and tech innovator in the automotive industry. He discusses the challenges he faced growing up in a single-parent household, his early experiences in sales, and the importance of self-education. David also reflects on the shift from a selfish mindset to a servant leadership approach, the resistance entrepreneurs often face, and the lessons learned from his experiences with investment and business growth. In this conversation, David Metter shares insights on the importance of alignment in partnerships, the principles of scaling a business, and the significance of communication and conviction in entrepreneurship. He discusses the challenges of balancing family life with business demands and emphasizes the need for awareness and peer networks to foster growth. David also highlights the importance of hiring the right people and the impact of a selfless leadership approach on personal and professional success. The discussion culminates in a reflection on legacy building and the joy of giving back. Takeaways - David's entrepreneurial journey began at a young age with a paper route. - Overcoming adversity motivated David to seek a different path in life. - Self-education played a crucial role in David's success. - David's first experience with sales was in the automotive industry. - The importance of building relationships and communication in sales. - David emphasizes the significance of servant leadership in business. - The 'crab in the bucket' analogy illustrates the resistance entrepreneurs face. - David's early adoption of technology set him apart in sales. - Investment decisions can greatly impact a business's success or failure. - Life experiences shape our perspectives and decision-making as we grow. - - Alignment in partnerships is crucial for success. - Scaling requires understanding market needs and automation. - Communication and conviction are essential for entrepreneurs. - Peer networks provide valuable insights and accountability. - Hiring the right people is key to business growth. - Balancing family and business is a conscious decision. - Transitioning to a selfless mindset can lead to greater success. - Generosity and legacy building are important values. - Family meetings can strengthen family dynamics. - Investing in relationships and community enhances personal fulfillment. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to David Metter 06:43 - Overcoming Adversity and Finding Motivation 19:21 - The Crab in the Bucket Analogy 27:05 - Lessons from Investment and Business Growth 32:27 - The Importance of Alignment in Partnerships 39:17 - Communication and Conviction in Entrepreneurship 46:22 - Hiring for Success: The Right People Matter 54:01 - Transitioning from Selfish to Selfless Leadership Connect with David Metter: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidmetter/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidmetter/?hl=en Connect with Legacy Builders 12 Stone Church: Website: https://12stone.com/legacybuilders/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/12stonechurch YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/12StoneChurch TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@12stonechurch Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/12StoneChurch/ Connect with Abundant Journey: Website: AbundantJourney.net Newsletter: https://abundantjourney.beehiiv.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abundantjourneypodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@abundantjourney

Summary In this episode, Nick James and Nick Aufenkamp discuss the critical decision of whether to buy an existing business or start a new one from scratch. They explore the pros and cons of each approach, emphasizing the importance of established systems, reputation, and relationships in buying a business. The conversation also delves into the challenges of inheriting a business culture, the dynamics of working with previous owners, and the potential pitfalls of business acquisition. Ultimately, they highlight the entrepreneurial spirit and the motivations behind starting a business versus buying one. In this conversation, Nick Aufenkamp and Nick James explore the multifaceted world of entrepreneurship, focusing on the challenges and rewards of starting a business versus buying an existing one. They discuss the difficulties of cultural change, the complexities of business acquisition, the advantages of starting from scratch, and the importance of passion and persistence in entrepreneurship. The conversation also highlights the significance of having a clear exit strategy and the unique journeys that entrepreneurs embark on, emphasizing that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to building a successful business. Takeaways - Buying an established business can provide immediate customer relationships. - Starting a business from scratch often involves significant client acquisition challenges. - The culture of a business is crucial and often inherited from previous owners. - Having a good relationship with the previous owner can be beneficial for mentorship. - Understanding the barriers to entry is essential when considering a business purchase. - You may be buying a job if the previous owner did everything themselves. - Established systems and processes can save time and effort in business operations. - The reputation of a business can be a double-edged sword when buying. - Entrepreneurs often face challenges regardless of the path they choose. - The decision to buy or start a business should align with personal goals and vision. Changing a culture is often more challenging than starting anew. - Identifying market gaps can drive entrepreneurial ventures. - Buying a business involves complex negotiations and relationships. - Starting a business has lower barriers to entry compared to buying. - Financing for startups can be more challenging than for established businesses. - Passion for the work can sustain entrepreneurs through tough times. - Celebrating small wins is crucial when starting from scratch. - Having an exit strategy can guide business decisions from the start. - Entrepreneurs must understand their unique motivations and goals. - There are multiple paths to success in entrepreneurship. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Journey Overview 06:00 Pros and Cons of Buying an Established Business 12:03 Relationship with Previous Owners 21:28 Pitfalls of Buying a Business 27:28 The Entrepreneurial Spirit: Starting vs. Buying 33:44 Starting from Scratch: The Entrepreneur's Advantage 39:01 Passion and Persistence: The Heart of Entrepreneurship 45:41 Finding Your Path: The Unique Journey of Entrepreneurs Connect with Abundant Journey: Website: AbundantJourney.net Newsletter: https://abundantjourney.beehiiv.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abundantjourneypodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@abundantjourney

Summary In this episode of the Abundant Journey podcast, hosts Nick James and Nick Aufenkamp welcome Ryan Deiss, a successful entrepreneur and founder of Digital Marketer. Ryan shares his journey into entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of scaling businesses without sacrificing personal values and family time. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from an entrepreneur to a CEO, the significance of effective delegation, and the necessity of visualizing business processes for clarity and efficiency. The conversation highlights the common pitfalls entrepreneurs face and offers actionable strategies for achieving a balanced and successful business life. In this conversation, Ryan Deiss shares insights on the importance of systemization in business, the mindset shifts necessary for successful delegation, and the challenges entrepreneurs face when scaling their businesses. He emphasizes the need for clear role definitions, overcoming fears related to hiring, and the significance of cashflow management. Deiss also critiques traditional annual planning methods, advocating for a more flexible approach that focuses on quarterly goals instead. He concludes with practical advice for new entrepreneurs, highlighting the importance of identity and financial management. Takeaways - Ryan Deiss became an entrepreneur out of necessity, not intention. - Scaling a business can lead to personal sacrifices if not managed properly. - The importance of family and time management in entrepreneurship. - Transitioning from entrepreneur to CEO requires a shift in mindset. - Effective delegation is crucial for business growth. - Hiring higher-level employees can lead to greater business success. - Visualizing business processes helps identify inefficiencies. - Documenting key business processes is essential for scaling. - Entrepreneurs often over-identify with the growth phase of their business. - The business should serve the entrepreneur, not the other way around. - Document the critical processes in your business. - Start delegating tasks one sticky note at a time. - Good systems are essential before hiring new people. - The entrepreneur should aim to be the least valuable in their business. - Annual planning often leads to unrealistic expectations. - Focus on quarterly goals instead of annual ones. - Your identity as a business owner should evolve with your business. - Cashflow management is crucial for business survival. - Hiring professionals can alleviate management burdens. - Imposter syndrome can hinder effective delegation. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to the Abundant Journey Podcast 03:17 - Ryan Deiss: The Accidental Entrepreneur 08:34 - Scaling Without Sacrificing Your Soul 10:47 - The Importance of Family and Time Management 14:31 - Transitioning from Entrepreneur to CEO 20:31 - Strategies for Effective Delegation 26:59 - Visualizing Business Processes for Clarity 29:51 - The Importance of Systemization in Business 33:49 - Mindset Shifts for Successful Delegation 37:58 - Overcoming Management Fears and Imposter Syndrome 40:57 - The Transition from Growth to Scale 42:53 - Rethinking Annual Planning Strategies 51:57 - Advice for New Entrepreneurs: Identity and Cashflow Management

Connect with Ryan Deiss: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RyanDeissOfficial Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryandeiss/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryandeiss/ Digitalmarketer: https://www.digitalmarketer.com/faculty/ryan-deiss/?srsltid=AfmBOooSv2ST1gIGhNlJNY4T5LMwq5rLOoEqbV_3ZGnc9RLDZbWW6Gpd Scalable: https://scalable.co X: https://x.com/ryandeiss?lang=en Connect with Abundant Journey: Website: AbundantJourney.net Newsletter: https://abundantjourney.beehiiv.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abundantjourneypodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenick_james/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickaufenkamp/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@abundantjourney

Summary In this episode of the Abundant Journey podcast, hosts Nick James and Nick Aufenkamp reflect on their two-year journey of podcasting, discussing the lessons learned, the importance of building relationships, and the challenges of entrepreneurship. They explore the growth of their audience, the depth of connections made, and the clarity they've gained in understanding their target audience. The conversation also delves into the struggles of new entrepreneurs, the imposter syndrome they face, and their renewed focus on helping business owners cross the million-dollar revenue threshold. In this conversation, Nick Aufenkamp and Nick James discuss their evolving vision for their podcast and business endeavors. They emphasize the importance of expanding their content beyond traditional podcasting to include targeted video content and practical advice for business owners. They share their personal journeys in entrepreneurship, highlighting the lessons learned from failures and the significance of taking action. The duo expresses their commitment to building a community of entrepreneurs, encouraging audience engagement, and sharing valuable insights from their experiences and those of their guests. Takeaways - The podcast has been a journey of reflection and growth. - Building relationships with guests has been more valuable than expected. - The numerical growth of the podcast has been slower than anticipated. - Clarity in understanding our audience has emerged over time. - The journey of entrepreneurship is filled with challenges and learning. - Imposter syndrome is a common experience for new entrepreneurs. - It's important to focus on serving a specific audience. - The goal is to help business owners cross the million-dollar threshold. - Networking has led to deeper connections and opportunities. - The podcast aims to document the entrepreneurial journey and share insights. We're excited to help business owners grow and scale. - Video content is a huge opportunity for targeted advice. - Revisiting past guests for specific business challenges is key. - Documenting our journeys adds authenticity to our message. - Taking massive action is essential for growth. - Community is vital for long-term success in business. - Engagement from our audience helps build a stronger community. - Cross-industry insights can spark innovative ideas. - We're focused on helping entrepreneurs navigate challenges. - Our journey reflects the importance of learning from failures. Chapters 00:00 - Reflecting on Two Years of Podcasting 05:48 - Finding Our Voice and Audience 12:11 - The Journey of Entrepreneurship 18:03 - The Imposter Syndrome of New Entrepreneurs 23:30 - Expanding Beyond the Podcast 32:35 - The Power of Taking Action 41:01 - Engaging with Our Audience Connect with Abundant Journey: Website: AbundantJourney.net Newsletter: https://abundantjourney.beehiiv.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abundantjourneypodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenick_james/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickaufenkamp/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@abundantjourney

Summary

In this episode of the Abundant Journey podcast, host Nick James and guest Chris Jansen explore the transformative journey of life coaching, particularly for high achievers and perfectionists. Chris shares her personal story of overcoming perfectionism and addiction, emphasizing the importance of community and mindset in recovery. The conversation delves into the distinctions between coaching and counseling, the significance of accountability, and the role of personal narratives in shaping beliefs. Chris also discusses her upcoming book, 'Grace Yourself', and offers insights on how to navigate the coaching landscape effectively. Takeaways

- Chris Jansen is a life coach who helps high achievers. - High achievers often struggle with perfectionism and self-sabotage. - Community plays a crucial role in recovery and personal growth. - The resistance faced in achieving goals is often a sign of progress. - Coaching focuses on moving forward, while counseling often addresses past issues. - It's important to find a coach who asks the right questions. - Coaching should have a clear starting and ending point. - Personal narratives shape our beliefs and can be rewritten. - Being part of a supportive community can alleviate feelings of isolation. - Fitness is foundational to overall well-being and success. Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Chris Jansen's Journey 08:15 - The Evolution of Life Coaching 17:44 - Understanding High Achievers and Perfectionism 25:00 - Personal Stories of Overcoming Perfectionism 32:26 - The Importance of Community in Recovery 37:21 - Coaching vs. Counseling: Understanding the Differences 46:34 - Navigating the Coaching Landscape 51:40 - Gold Nugget Round: Insights and Reflections Connect with Abundant Journey: Website: AbundantJourney.net Newsletter: https://abundantjourney.beehiiv.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abundantjourneypodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@abundantjourney Connect with Chris Jansen: Website: https://www.chrisjanssencoaching.com/ Book: https://www.graceyourselfbook.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chris3janssen/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chrisjanssencoaching/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisjanssencoaching/

Summary In this episode of the Abundant Journey podcast, host Nick Zalk speaks with Jordan, a former pastor turned entrepreneur and laundromat owner. Jordan shares his unique journey, including the challenges he faced in the laundromat business, the lessons learned from his early struggles, and the importance of due diligence. He discusses who should consider owning a laundromat, the role of technology in scaling the business, and the opportunities available in building new laundromats. Jordan also reflects on his transition to consulting and content creation, emphasizing the power of community and an abundance mindset. The conversation concludes with insights and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, as well as Jordan's future goals and aspirations. Takeaways - Jordan transitioned from being a pastor to a laundromat owner. - The decision to buy a laundromat was influenced by a friend's success. - Initial expectations of passive income from laundromats were not met. - Frustration arises when expectations do not align with reality. - 95% of laundromats are successful, but Jordan found himself in the 5%. - Finding trustworthy mentors is crucial for success in business. - Marketing is essential, even when facing financial difficulties. - Laundromats can be a great investment if bought correctly. - The laundromat industry is evolving with technology and services. - Community impact is a significant motivation for Jordan's work. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Jordan's Journey 03:06 - Transition from Pastor to Entrepreneur 06:09 - The Laundromat Decision: A Unique Choice 09:06 - Challenges Faced in the Laundromat Business 11:53 - Lessons Learned from Early Struggles 15:04 - The Importance of Due Diligence 17:50 - Who Should Consider Owning a Laundromat? 21:09 - Scaling and Technology in Laundromats 24:03 - Building New Laundromats: Opportunities and Challenges 26:52 - The Rise of Laundromat Popularity 30:04 - Jordan's Transition to Consulting and Content Creation 33:03 - The Power of Community and Abundance Mindset 35:54 - Golden Nuggets: Insights and Advice 39:12 - Jordan's Future Goals and Aspirations Connect with Abundant Journey: Website: AbundantJourney.net Newsletter: https://abundantjourney.beehiiv.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abundantjourneypodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@abundantjourney Connect with Jordan Berry: Email: info@laundromatresource.com Phone: 1-714-869-7595 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laundromatresource/ Laundromatresource: https://www.laundromatresource.com/about-us/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-l-berry/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/laundromat-resource/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LaundromatResource/videos Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheLaundromatResource/ X: https://x.com/LaundryResource

Summary In this episode of the Abundant Journey podcast, hosts Nick James and Nick Aufenkamp interview Jason Bright and Ian Johnson of Bright Smith Advisors. The conversation covers topics such as entrepreneurship, faith, and the journeys of Jason and Ian. Jason and Ian discuss their mission to help business owners get out of advice silos and provide coordinated, proactive advice by bringing together various disciplines in financial planning. They also share their personal journeys, including the challenges and transitions they faced in their careers. In this conversation, Ian Johnson and Jason Bright of Brightsmith Advisors discuss their journey as financial advisors and the unique approach they take in serving their clients. They emphasize the importance of trusting in God's provision and being patient in building their business. They also discuss the challenges they faced in starting a business in an established industry and how they positioned themselves to acquire their first clients. They highlight the underserved demographic of successful business owners and the need for a different approach in serving their complex financial needs. They also share their perspectives on money and the importance of using it as a tool to bless others and further the kingdom of God. Finally, they discuss their personal goals and dreams, including giving away a significant portion of their income and opening orphanages. Takeaways - Jason and Ian aim to help business owners get out of advice silos and receive coordinated, proactive advice by bringing together various disciplines in financial planning. - Transitioning from one career to another can be challenging, but it can also lead to personal growth and new opportunities. - Both Jason and Ian faced obstacles and setbacks in their journeys, but they persevered and found success in the financial industry. - Building a successful advisory practice takes time and dedication, and it's important to focus on serving clients and building relationships. - Faith and a sense of stewardship play a significant role in Jason and Ian's approach to financial planning. Trust in God's provision and be patient in building your business. - Position yourself to serve an underserved demographic with complex financial needs. - View money as a tool to bless others and further the kingdom of God. - Focus on family, faith, fitness, finance, and future to create an abundant life. Set goals and dreams that align with your values and make a positive impact. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Overview 02:11 - Breaking Out of Advice Silos 06:09 - Personal Journeys of Jason and Ian 08:12 - Overcoming Challenges and Transitions 19:00 - Career Frustrations and Desire for Control 23:26 - Transitioning to Financial Services 29:24 - Starting from Scratch and Building a Practice 35:03 - Different Approach to Financial Planning 36:29 - Trusting in God's Provision and Being Patient in Business 38:19 - Serving the Underserved: A Different Approach to Financial Advising 43:44 - Using Money as a Tool to Bless Others 56:23 - Creating an Abundant Life: Family, Faith, Fitness, Finance, and Future 01:08:13 - Setting Goals and Dreams that Align with Your Values Connect with Abundant Journey: Website: AbundantJourney.net Newsletter: https://abundantjourney.beehiiv.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abundantjourneypodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@abundantjourney Connect with Jason Bright: Contact: 470-330-1289 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonbrightbrightsmith/ Website: https://www.brightsmithadvisors.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brightsmithadvisors/ Email: jason.bright@brightsmithadvisors.com Connect with Ian Johnson: Contact: 972-768-9247 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bering-capital/ Website: https://www.beringfinancial.com/ Email: solutions@beringfinancial.com

Summary In this conversation, Phil Wilkins shares his journey from being a multi-unit McDonald's owner to becoming the founder of a 360-degree marketing company called BYA Everyday. He discusses the influence of his parents and the challenges they faced, which instilled in him a strong work ethic and determination. Phil also talks about the importance of having a strong support base and the sacrifices he made as an entrepreneur. He offers advice to young entrepreneurs, emphasizing the need to stay focused on a niche and align opportunities with personal values. Phil Wilkins shares his journey as an entrepreneur and the importance of visualization and manifestation in achieving success. He emphasizes the power of the mind and the need to dream and set goals. Phil discusses the balance between work and personal life, highlighting the importance of being present for family and prioritizing what truly matters. He also talks about the value of building systems and hiring the right people to create freedom and flexibility in business. Phil's goal is to help small business owners and financial professionals succeed and connect with their ideal clients. Takeaways - Having a strong work ethic and determination is crucial for success as an entrepreneur. - A strong support base and close relationships can help navigate challenges and provide emotional and practical support. - Entrepreneurs often have to make sacrifices and live with uncertainty, but staying focused on a niche and aligning opportunities with personal values can lead to long-term success. - Franchising can be a viable option for aspiring entrepreneurs, as it offers a proven track record and support from an established brand. Visualization and manifestation are powerful tools for achieving success. - Finding a balance between work and personal life is crucial for overall happiness and fulfillment. - Building systems and hiring the right people can create freedom and flexibility in business. - Setting goals and taking action are essential for reaching desired outcomes. - Having an abundance mindset opens up opportunities and allows for growth and success. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Background 02:53 - Early Influences and Entrepreneurial Spirit 09:46 - Choosing the Franchise Path 19:14 - Overcoming Challenges and Making Sacrifices 26:27 - Advice for Young Entrepreneurs 32:01 - Finding Opportunities Within a Niche 32:40 - Building a Business and Diversifying 34:06 - The Power of Visualization and Manifestation 37:29 - Finding Balance and Being Present 43:40 - The Enjoyment of the Grind 49:20 - Prioritizing Family and Making Changes 53:01 - Creating Freedom and Flexibility in Business 57:20 - Balancing the Five F's of Abundant Journey 01:01:18 - The Importance of an Abundance Mindset 01:03:49 - Leaving a Legacy for Future Generations Connect with Abundant Journey: Website: AbundantJourney.net Newsletter: https://abundantjourney.beehiiv.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abundantjourneypodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@abundantjourney Connect with Phil Wilkins: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-wilkins-4290b66/ BYAEveryday: https://www.byaeveryday.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/philwilkinsbya/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/philwilkinsbya Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@philwilkinsbya YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BYAwithPhilWilkins