fbpx Skip to content

Follow Us

Posts by David Shriner-Cahn

How to Overcome Project Pausing Fears and Seize New Opportunities Through Mindset Shifts Featuring Diana Acuna

Diana has spent the last 20 years in SaaS. She has expertise in sales, customer success, Six Sigma, and service delivery. She is currently the Senior Director of Transformation at Kantata. As a leader, Diana is passionate about leveraging emotional intelligence in the workplace to drive meaningful outcomes, and she speaks and coaches on this topic.

In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to navigate career changes by harnessing emotional intelligence and mindset shifts.

Diana and I discuss:

  • The challenge of balancing passions and professional commitments [02:31]
  • Strategies for overcoming the fear of pausing a project [04:00]
  • How a mindset shift can create new opportunities [06:42]
  • Tools and frameworks that aid in decision-making [07:14]
  • The impact of reduced casual conversations in a remote work environment [10:29]
  • How personal values align with professional roles [13:00]
  • Diana’s thoughts on future career paths and passions [16:09]

Learn more about Diana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianaacuna/.

Thank you to our sponsor:

The Smashing the Plateau Community  

Sign up today for exclusive insights and straightforward strategies from our podcast experts—your journey to success is just a click away.

How to Develop Essential Sales and Marketing Skills for Your Business Featuring Deborah Anne Coviello

Deb Coviello is an accomplished author, podcast host, and leadership expert in quality and operational excellence, known as the CEO Whisperer. Deb uses her 30 years of experience to help CEOs and C-suite leaders of tomorrow find peace of mind by providing solutions to their technical business issues and elevating their teams. Her book, “The CEO’s Compass,” is a go-to guide for navigating challenges and achieving lasting success.

In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to transition from corporate work to entrepreneurship and the importance of community in navigating business challenges.

Deb and I discuss:

  • Her entrepreneurial journey and starting Illumination Partners [02:22]
  • Building a personal brand and the need for sales and marketing skills [04:00]
  • How to determine when to stay the course or pivot [06:12]
  • The role of self-reflection and daily routines in success [08:21]
  • Expanding into a media company and creating content [11:00]
  • Targeting C-Suite leaders in her business strategy [14:25]

Learn more about Deb at https://dropinceo.com.

Thank you to our sponsor:

The Smashing the Plateau Community  

Unlock exclusive insights by subscribing now. Get concise strategy tips from our podcast experts and start mastering your road to success with just a click.

How to Transform Solo Entrepreneurship and Overcome Challenges with Effective Community Support and Strategic Planning Featuring Boudewijn Bertsch

Bou is a leadership consultant who helps his clients discover how to bring out the best in themselves and others. He designs and delivers customized leadership development workshops for executive teams around the globe. Bou also has a thriving executive and life coaching practice. Together with his wife, Riva Greenberg, he supports people living with diabetes. He resides in Brooklyn, NY.

In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn about navigating solo entrepreneurship in a turbulent environment using practical, data-driven strategies.

Bou and I discuss:

  • The importance of building on personal experience and podcast insights [00:00:00]
  • Challenges faced by solo entrepreneurs after corporate careers [00:00:47]
  • Overview of the SMASH system [00:03:40]
  • The five elements of the SMASH framework [00:04:17]
  • The role of thinking partners and community collaboration [00:07:08]
  • Common challenges like marketing and staying relevant [00:10:45]
  • How our book addresses entrepreneurial challenges [00:13:31]

Learn more about Boudewijn at https://www.spimanagement.com/.

Thank you to our sponsor:

The Smashing the Plateau Community  

Click to subscribe and gain exclusive access to our podcast experts’ curated strategy tips—master your success journey effortlessly.

How to Utilize Self-Care Strategies for Effective Leadership While Transitioning to Entrepreneurship Featuring Boudewijn Bertsch

Bou is a leadership consultant who helps his clients discover how to bring out the best in themselves and others. He designs and delivers customized leadership development workshops for executive teams around the globe. Bou also has a thriving executive and life coaching practice. Along with his wife, Riva Greenberg, he supports people living with diabetes. He resides in Brooklyn, NY.

In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to successfully manage the emotional and psychological challenges of entrepreneurship after a corporate career.

Bou and I discuss:

  • The importance of self-care for effective leadership [00:00]
  • Bao’s transition from quality management to leadership coaching [03:02]
  • How the pandemic reshaped Bao’s coaching practices [04:00]
  • Navigating changes and embracing emergence in business [08:13]
  • Strategies for responding to unforeseen challenges [09:48]
  • The role of AI and tech evolution in the modern job market [12:05]
  • Key components of the upcoming book on transitioning to solo ventures [17:55]
  • Importance of managing energy and time effectively [20:19]

Learn more about Boudewijn at https://www.spimanagement.com.

Thank you to our sponsor:  

The Smashing the Plateau Community  

Join us now to get exclusive access to tailored strategy tips from our podcast experts—your path to success is just a click away.

How to Manage Legal Challenges Faced by Startups and Small Businesses Featuring Shahrina Ankhi-Krol

Shahrina Ankhi-Krol, Esq. is a distinguished attorney and the founder of Ankhi-Krol Law. Founded in 2012, Ankhi-Krol Law has become a leading legal service provider that caters exclusively to the needs of startups, small businesses, and entrepreneurs all over the country. The firm’s areas of practice are Business, Contract, Trademark, and Copyright Laws.

Shahrina has presented legal topics at countless business conferences, expositions, educational institutions, and on Law and Crime. She has also appeared on CNN, FOX, NBC, and CBS. She is a nine-time Rising Star Super Lawyer, a recognition given to no more than 2.5% of attorneys in each state, each year.

In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, Shahrina Anki Krol shares her valuable insights on the common legal challenges faced by new business owners. We delve into the importance of creating formal business entities, the crucial role of well-drafted contracts, and the significance of networking for business growth. Shahrina also discusses the impact of artificial intelligence in the legal field.

Shahrina and I discuss:

  • What it means to be a corporate refugee [02:23]
  • Shahrina’s journey from working at law firms to starting her own practice [03:23]
  • The importance of creating a formal business entity [08:26]
  • How to choose a memorable and trademarkable business name [12:04]
  • Crafting effective contracts to protect your business [13:27]
  • Methods to resolve disputes amicably [16:00]
  • Utilizing artificial intelligence in legal strategies [18:33]
  • Tapping into community to foster business success [20:53]

Learn more about Shahrina at instagram.com/ankhikrollaw, facebook.com/ankhikrollaw, http://twitter.com/ankhikrollaw.

Thank you to Our Sponsors:

The Smashing the Plateau Community

Subscribe today for exclusive access to sharp, expert strategy tips from our podcast – achieving mastery is just a click away.

How to Use Soft Skills to Enhance Team Performance and Leadership in Technical Fields Featuring Gloriana Teh

Gloriana Teh is the founder and owner of Claritas Consulting & Coaching. She equips leaders and organizations so their people and projects can thrive. Claritas Consulting & Coaching provides strategy and talent management consulting services to organizations, along with leadership and career coaching services.

Prior to consulting, Gloriana was responsible for process development and optimization for a large specialty chemicals company. She pivoted from process development to people development after over 20 years of corporate experience.

In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to develop essential soft skills for leadership and team success.

Gloriana and I discuss:

  • What prompted Gloriana to transition from engineering to consulting [00:02:27]
  • The role of soft skills in technical teams [04:31:8]
  • Defining and understanding soft skills [00:05:11]
  • The importance of human interaction for team collaboration [00:05:44]
  • Initial consulting experiences and challenges [00:05:55]
  • Designing and implementing a data visualization tool [00:07:17]
  • Why digital transformation projects often fail [00:07:42]
  • Applying core concepts across different disciplines [00:09:09]
  • The impact of feedback and quick success on her consulting journey [00:09:39]
  • Connecting personal strengths to business development [00:10:18]
  • Identifying the ideal client and solving their problems [00:11:35]
  • Upcoming opportunities and projects [00:12:17]
  • The significance of emotional intelligence in leadership [00:13:00]
  • Advice for transitioning from corporate to solo entrepreneurship [00:16:03]
  • The importance of networking and community support [00:18:13]

Learn more about Gloriana at https://claritas.harrisonassessments.com/.

Thank you to our sponsor:

The Smashing the Plateau Community

Join now to get exclusive, concise strategy tips from our podcast experts – your success journey starts with one click!

How to Master Effective Positioning and Understand Your Market Featuring Steven Lewis

Steven Lewis is a copywriter who draws on decades of experience in journalism and marketing to position experts as the obvious choice for their ideal clients.

In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to effectively communicate your expertise and position yourself for success as a corporate refugee.

Steven and I discuss:

  • Steven’s journey from law to copywriting [01:45]
  • The mistakes businesses make in positioning [06:27]
  • The importance of understanding your target market [10:00]
  • What people actually value in a service provider [14:32]
  • How understanding your value can affect pricing [18:51]
  • The role of community in personal and professional growth [24:11]

Learn more about Steven at https://taleist.agency/guides/the-landing-page-checklist/

Thank you to our sponsor:

The Smashing the Plateau Community

How to Make Consistent Progress and Generate Momentum in Business Featuring Kayvon K

As a productivity and profitability expert, Kayvon helps entrepreneurs and business owners make consistent progress and generate momentum.

In a world where information overload and execution shortages are rampant, he helps his clients implement the right growth strategies, in the right way, at the right time. Zero fluff. Just progress.

Although he is a valuable resource to many, his specialty is working with coaches and consultants. Dr. Kayvon has been creating frameworks for improving both INCOME and IMPACT since 2006.

In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn the keys to running a profitable coaching or consulting business.

Kayvon and I discuss:

  • The importance of first impressions and personal branding [02:02]
  • Why Kayvon chose to focus on coaches and consultants [04:11]
  • Essential steps to run a profitable coaching business [05:26]
  • How to view your service as a product [07:47]
  • The connection between commodities and products in business transactions [10:17]
  • Overcoming internal and external obstacles to growth [12:35]
  • The role of community and masterminds in business success [20:00]
  • Balancing learning and execution for growth [18:36]

Learn more about Kayvon at https://simplifyprofits.com/allcourses.

Thank you to our sponsor:

The Smashing the Plateau Community

Sign up for exclusive, focused strategy insights from our podcast pros – mastering success is just one click away.

How to Empower Educators Worldwide with AI Tools and Transform Online Learning Featuring Jessica Spencer

After nearly two decades in the corporate world, Jessica founded the educational media company Penguin Connective to create greater equality and opportunity in hard-to-navigate areas, including future readiness, foster-to-adopt, and transitioning to adulthood. She is the creator of AI Explorer Society and a ChatGPT for Teachers course that is currently serving over 1,800 educators from around the world. She lives near Raleigh, North Carolina, with her husband and their five kids.

In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn about the journey from corporate life to entrepreneurial success, and how diversification can solidify financial security.

Jessica and I discuss:

  • What motivated Jessica to leave her corporate career [02:23]
  • The impact of her connective tissue disorder diagnosis [06:08]
  • The importance of diversifying income streams [08:00]
  • How she built Penguin Connective and its impact on educators [13:26]
  • The role of AI in education and how it can be used ethically [14:34]
  • Jessica’s strategy for expanding her network through collaboration [11:29]
  • Her focus for the upcoming year with AI Explorer Society [15:33]
  • The value of community for entrepreneurs [16:36]
  • Tips for corporate refugees to advance in their business [17:50]

Learn more about Jessica at https://www.aiexplorers.io/.

Thank you to our sponsor:

The Smashing the Plateau Community

Join today for exclusive, curated strategy tips from our podcast experts – mastering your path to success starts with one click.

How to Use Technical Skills to Create High-Impact Coaching and Newsletters Featuring Troy Larson

Troy Larson has over 40 years of software development and technical management experience, including five years at Amazon as a Solutions Architect.

In 2022, Troy founded The Unique VA Experience, a Filipino-based coaching company that has trained nearly 300 VAs, providing opportunities for Filipinos who are looking to change careers and for stay-at-home parents looking to enter the workforce.

In 2023, Troy launched The Developer’s CEO Newsletter, building on his 40 years of experience, focused on the unique challenges faced by software developers who are running a small business or looking to start their own business.

In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to leverage your technical expertise to create impactful coaching programs and newsletters.

Troy and I discuss:

  • Troy’s journey from a Commodore 64 to founding his own business [02:33]
  • The motivation behind launching the Unique VA Experience in 2022 [03:15]
  • The challenges faced and lessons learned in the VA coaching realm [04:00]
  • The significance of embracing uniqueness in career coaching [04:49]
  • Structuring monthly internship programs for VAs [05:20]
  • The iterative process and unexpected successes, like the bootcamp initiative [07:00]
  • Harnessing community for entrepreneurial support and development [08:00]
  • The benefits of using OKRs (Objectives and Key Results) in a community context [11:00]
  • The public accountability effect of OKRs and the peer pressure involved [12:56]
  • What corporate refugees can learn from using OKRs to achieve their goals [16:12]

Learn more about Troy at https://troylarson.com/.

Thank you to our sponsor:

The Smashing the Plateau Community

Subscribe today for exclusive, bite-sized strategy advice from our podcast experts – achieving success has never been this easy with just one click!

How to Build a Successful Business and Triple Your Income Featuring Tina Collura

Tina Collura is an award-winning Productivity and Business Development Coach who leverages over 14 years of entrepreneurial expertise to drive businesses from surviving to thriving. Through personalized consultations, she helps business owners develop growth models that secure deals and triple entrepreneurs’ income swiftly.

In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to navigate the challenges solopreneurs face when transitioning from corporate careers to successful entrepreneurship.

Tina and I discuss:

  • Common struggles for solopreneurs [00:02:00]
  • The importance of self-marketing and networking [00:02:27]
  • Developing the right mindset and discipline [00:04:00]
  • Steps to initiate and test your business model [00:04:33]
  • Running pilot sessions and gathering feedback [00:05:45]
  • Building confidence and the value of persistence [00:07:00]
  • Differences in selling as an entrepreneur [00:08:30]
  • The impact of building strong relationships [00:09:32]
  • Tina’s career journey and key learnings [00:10:48]
  • The significance of community for entrepreneurs [00:17:00]

Learn more about Tina at https://hihello.me/p/abf99156-04af-433a-abbc-44ceeddcfcb7.

Thank you to our sponsor:

The Smashing the Plateau Community

Get exclusive, streamlined strategy insights from our podcast experts—one click to start mastering your path to success!

How to Enhance Your Online Presence and Transition to Entrepreneurship Successfully Featuring Ahsan Karim

Ahsan Karim is a business strategist and founder of Light Vision Group. His company helps businesses generate more revenue with online marketing.

In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn about the journey of transitioning from a corporate career to becoming a successful entrepreneur and the importance of building an online presence.

Asan and I discuss:

  • What triggered Asan’s interest in being an entrepreneur 
  • His first experience as an entrepreneur
  • How he learned marketing
  • His ideal client for Light Vision Group 
  • The role of community in entrepreneurship 
  • Upcoming projects to help entrepreneurs enhance their online presence 

Learn more about Asan at https://lightvisiongroup.com/.

Thank you to our sponsor:

The Smashing the Plateau Community

Join our subscribers for exclusive, concise strategy tips from our podcast experts – your path to success starts with a single click!

How to Build a Business by Adapting Corporate Skills and Embracing Risk Featuring Erin Marcus

Erin Marcus is the founder and CEO of Conquer Your Business, an international company helping driven entrepreneurs and small business owners achieve the financial and emotional freedom they need to build a business and life they’re proud of.

In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to unlearn corporate habits and develop a mindset for entrepreneurial success.

Erin and I discuss:

  • The necessary unlearning process from corporate to entrepreneurship 
  • Utilizing corporate skills like delegation in small business 
  • The importance of risk tolerance and testing in the marketplace
  • Overcoming ego and adapting to creating your own path 
  • The significance of mindset in achieving business goals 
  • Strategies for dealing with financial and self-worth challenges 
  • The role of community and networking in entrepreneurial success 

Learn more about Erin at:

Conquer Your Business | Erin Marcus | Business Consulting

Instagram (@erinmarcusconqueryourbusiness)

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinmarcusconqueryourbusiness/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/erin.marcus.3

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLFD-aM6LmA10FQ

Thank you to our sponsor:

The Smashing the Plateau Community  

Get exclusive access to expertly curated strategy tips from our podcast – streamline your path to success with just one click!

How to Apply Basic Work Design Principles for Organizational Success Featuring Thomas Bertels

Thomas Bertels is a management consultant and business transformation expert on a mission to make work more productive, valuable, meaningful, and impactful. He has more than 25 years of experience helping companies across a range of industries, from startups to Fortune 5, transform how work gets done. Thinkers360 has recognized Thomas as a Top 50 Thought Leader on the Future of Work and Design Thinking.

Before starting Purpose Works in 2021, Thomas was a founding partner at OXYGY/Valeocon. Earlier in his career, he held leadership roles at Aon Consulting and ABB.

Thomas has written several books and numerous articles on work design, process improvement, business transformation, and organizational learning. His latest book is Fixing Work: Designing Jobs Employees Love (Greenleaf Book Group). He is also the host of the Work Matters podcast, where he explores in conversations with thought leaders and executives what leaders can do to fix work.

Thomas and I discuss:

  • Thomas’s motivation for writing his latest book 
  • Why Thomas chose to write a business fable 
  • The process of writing an allegory
  • Differences between writing an allegory and a traditional business book 
  • The impact Thomas hopes his book will have 
  • The connection between the book and Thomas’s business 
  • Challenges Thomas foresees for thought leaders today 
  • What successful consultants do differently 
  • How Thomas would start his consulting business today 
  • Basic principles of the work design framework
  • The role of community in achieving professional success 

Learn more about Thomas Bertels at:

Thank you to our sponsor:

The Smashing the Plateau Community

Sign up now to receive expert strategy tips from our podcast—your success is just a click away!

How to Shift from Self-Employment to Entrepreneurship in the Translation Industry Featuring Jason Willis-Lee

Jason Willis-Lee is a popular translator trainer and has given presentations on various business topics aimed at freelance translators and interpreters for ProZ, BP, CIOL, and Training for Translators. He co-founded the Collaborative Networking Translation Project, Medico-legal Translations (www.medicolegaltranslations.com). As a solopreneur, he recently launched a podcast called ‘How to Find More Direct Clients,’ aimed at early career professional linguists, and he uses his professional expertise to run the ‘How to Find More Direct Clients’ online course.”

In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to navigate the evolving landscape of the translation industry and leverage your expertise to build a successful business.

Jason and I discuss:

  • What motivated Jason to go solo
  • The transition from generalist to specialist 
  • The difference between being self-employed and entrepreneurial
  • How Jason stretches himself through entrepreneurship 
  • Navigating the challenges in the translation industry
  • The importance of leveraging AI and technology
  • The role of community in business growth
  • Personal branding and its significance for freelancers 

Learn more about Jason at https://entrepreneurialtranslator.com/training-for-translators/.

Thank you to our sponsor:

The Smashing the Plateau Community

Get exclusive access to expertly curated strategy tips by subscribing now – achieving success is just a click away!

How to Design Effective Business Processes and Focus on Productized Services Featuring Wayne Pelletier

After 25 years as a creative professional, Wayne founded Resonant Pixel Company just three years ago. The business experienced some early rapid growth, but it wasn’t the business Wayne wanted. He has since transitioned the company into productized services, helping small businesses leverage the Squarespace platform to go from having an informational brochure-ware website to a transactional growth engine.

In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to transition from rapid early growth to a business model that aligns with your values and goals.

Wayne and I discuss:

  • How Wayne transitioned from unemployment to starting his business
  • Realizing the need to change his initial business model
  • Narrowing the focus and shedding off certain technologies
  • The importance of building processes and hiring
  • How to design effective business processes
  • Wayne’s approach to hiring and testing new hires
  • Examples of unexpected wins in hiring
  • The benefits of having a subscription-based revenue model
  • Wayne’s ideal client profile
  • Future plans and goals for Resonant Pixel Company
  • The importance of being part of a community like Smashing the Plateau

Learn more about Wayne at: https://resonantpixel.co/

Thank you to our sponsor:

The Smashing the Plateau Community

Unlock exclusive, succinct strategy insights by subscribing now – mastering your success pathway is just a single click away!

How to Transition to Entrepreneurship with Effective Delegation Featuring Kyle Walburn

Kyle Walbrun is the Founder and CEO of EfficientAide, an assistant company. He is deeply passionate about helping professionals work effectively and proficiently through a proven process of delegation. Throughout his career, Kyle has partnered with a broad range of business leaders, strategizing on how to buy back their time and eliminate worry.

In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will discover the strategies behind Effective Delegation with Kyle Walbrun, the founder and CEO of EfficientAide. Kyle shares his expertise on enabling professionals to work more effectively and proficiently through a systematic approach to delegation.

Kyle and I discuss:

  • The challenges corporate refugees face when transitioning to entrepreneurship
  • How to overcome the hesitation of letting go and start delegating
  • Assessing costs and the return on investment (ROI) of delegation
  • The types of tasks business leaders should delegate first
  • A transformative story of a client who mastered delegation
  • How Kyle utilizes thought partners and community to excel in his business
  • Where listeners can learn more about Kyle and EfficientAide

Learn more about Kyle at http://www.EfficientAide.com.

Thank you to our sponsor:

The Smashing the Plateau Community

Make sure to subscribe for immediate access to expert strategy tips that are concise and curated – your success story starts with one click.

How to Navigate Mid-Sized Business Challenges for Growth Featuring Phillip Brown

Phillip Brown is the founder of Blue Pit, Inc., a software consulting firm dedicated to improving business process automation. Throughout his career, Phillip has forged impactful partnerships with renowned organizations, including Disney, Harley Davidson, and NASA, leveraging his expertise to revolutionize their operations. 

His dedication lies in empowering mid-sized enterprises that grapple with challenges such as over-budget projects, organizational chaos, and high employee turnover. By implementing intuitive processes, Phillip helps businesses regain control over their project management, supercharge their return on investment, and cultivate a work environment that attracts and retains top talent.

In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn strategies for scaling your business effectively and creating a sustainable and attractive company culture.

Phillip and I discuss:

  • The transition from employee to entrepreneur
  • Tackling the unique challenges faced by mid-sized businesses
  • The art of foreseeing potential issues and implementing change management
  • Strategies for fostering effective communication within teams
  • The importance of building a consulting business based on relationships
  • Leveraging networking and conferences for business development
  • The role of AI and automation in crafting efficient business processes
  • How community and communication can propel business success

Learn more about Phil at www.bluepit.com.

Thank you to our sponsor:

The Smashing the Plateau Community

Enlist now for bespoke access to concentrated strategy wisdom from our podcast authorities – elevate your success journey with just one click!

How to Hit the Million Mark as a Video Freelancer Featuring Ron Desi

Ron Desi, a full-time freelancer on Fiverr, has just crossed the million-dollar threshold. He is a video content creator and professional spokesperson, who has also started an off-Fiverr agency offering video services to law firms aiming to attract clients through video. Previously, he worked as an IT consultant and directed a university MBA program.

In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, Ron Desi will share how he transformed his career from IT consulting and academia to crushing the million-dollar revenue.

Ron and I discuss:

  • Ron’s journey to becoming a freelancer and the slow start on Fiverr
  • The decision to leave his full-time job and the safety nets he created
  • The strategies that led to his success, including finding a niche with low competition
  • The importance of collaboration and joining communities to enhance business growth
  • The reasons behind focusing on video services for law firms
  • Ron’s vision for his business and the advice he offers to corporate refugees

Learn more about Ron’s journey and connect with him on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/rondesi/.

Thank you to our sponsor:

The Smashing the Plateau Community

Join our subscriber list for unique access to targeted, expert strategy tips from our podcast – your path to mastery is merely a click away!

How to Combine Expertise with Coaching for Success Featuring Carla Fowler

Dr. Carla Fowler is an MD, PhD, and an elite executive coach who has been a secret weapon for scores of CEOs, entrepreneurs, and other senior leaders for the last decade. Carla’s unique approach combines the latest research from performance science with timeless best practices to help top performers level up and achieve their goals.

In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to leverage your expertise to make significant career pivots and build a successful business model as an executive coach.

Carla and I discuss:

  • Why Carla chose a non-linear career path
  • The realization that led her to pivot from medicine
  • Embracing high performance outside of traditional systems
  • Dealing with resistance and misunderstandings from others
  • Why she decided against structured coaching programs
  • How brutal focus helps in building a business
  • Networking strategies for building a new career
  • The challenge of selling as a new entrepreneur

Learn more about Carla at www.thaxa.com and https://www.thaxa.com/p/smashing-the-plateau.

Thank you to our sponsor:

The Smashing the Plateau Community

Secure your subscription for firsthand access to our expert-curated, concise strategic wisdom on our podcast – unlocking your success story is only one click apart!

How to Break Free from Job Titles to Personal Identity Featuring Dr. Mira Brancu

Dr. Mira Brancu is a consulting and coaching psychologist specializing in leadership identity development and in building adaptive, cohesive, high-performing teams. She is also an Associate Professor, the author of “The Millennials Guide to Workplace Politics,” a “Psychology Today” columnist for the blog series “A New Look at Women’s Leadership,” and the host of “The Hard Skills” internet radio show and podcast. Her award-winning social impact firm, Towerscope, focuses on empowering and elevating women in leadership within the education and innovation industries.

In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn about the intricacies of leadership and identity, especially the challenges women face in the corporate sphere and the liberating journey of defining your career and leadership path.

Dr. Mira and I discuss:

  • The link between job titles and personal identity
  • The freedom and creativity in starting your own business
  • The experience of high achievers leaving the corporate world
  • The challenge of separating personal identity from job roles
  • Navigating leadership ambivalence among high-potential women
  • Deciding whether to continue on the leadership track
  • The impact of societal expectations on career decisions
  • Strategies for tuning out unhelpful advice from others
  • Adjusting to a sudden lack of structure after a career change
  • Tips on joining and engaging with communities

Learn more about Dr. Mira Brancu at http://www.gotowerscope.com/ and join the Tower Scope Leadership Academy for a special offer.

Thank you to our sponsor:

The Smashing the Plateau Community

Get exclusive entry to select, streamlined advice from our podcast specialists by subscribing now – a single click can pave your way to success!

How to Create Systems for a Stress-Free and Efficient Business Featuring Ral West

Ral West, a seasoned professional with over 40 years of experience, is a multifaceted entrepreneur respected in both the tourism industry and multifamily real estate circles. She is recognized for founding successful businesses, authoring courses, and contributing to various boards. She is also a philanthropist and dynamic speaker. Additionally, she is the founder of Ral West: Livin’ The Dream and the creator of a course for entrepreneurs titled “Overcome Overwhelm: Create a Smooth Running Business with Less Stress.”

In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will discover how to overcome the challenges of entrepreneurship and create a thriving business with less stress. Ral West, a dynamic entrepreneur with over 40 years of extensive experience, joins us to offer her wisdom on navigating the complex journey of business ownership.

Ral and I discuss:

  • Why high achievers tend to feel overwhelmed and how to counteract it
  • The paradox of saying no to increase profitability
  • The critical role of prioritizing and focusing for business success
  • Strategies for matching your passions with a business model that relieves market pain
  • How to leverage your existing network and find mentors when starting a business
  • The importance of creating systems to streamline business operations
  • Real-world examples of systems Ral has implemented in her businesses
  • Ral’s inspiration for helping other entrepreneurs at this stage of her life
  • How to effectively utilize communities and mentorship when venturing into new territories
  • Ral’s personal approach to lifelong entrepreneurship and continuous learning

Learn more about Ral at https://www.ralwest.com/.

Thank you to our sponsor:

The Smashing the Plateau Community

Sign up today for privileged entry to expertly curated, succinct strategies from our podcast gurus – your pathway to success is a mere click away!

How to Craft Long-Term Success with Sustainable Career Strategies Featuring Kathy Oneto

Kathy Oneto is an executive and life-work coach committed to helping individuals find success on their terms in both their professional and personal lives. As the founder of Sustainable Ambition and the host of the Sustainable Ambition Podcast, she guides clients to discover motivation in their careers, construct their future life and work arcs, and manage their efforts towards greater resilience and sustainability. In her diverse portfolio career, Kathy also serves as a strategy executive, aiding organizations in cutting through ambiguity and gaining the clarity needed to progress and take sustainable actions.

In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to leave your corporate career and develop a sustainable model that brings fulfillment and success on your own terms.

Kathy and I discuss:

  • What inspired Kathy to step out of the corporate world and embrace entrepreneurship
  • How her vision of entrepreneurship evolved over time
  • The real meaning of sustainable ambition and how it can be a game-changer
  • Kathy’s journey of building a sustainable ambitious life
  • Strategies for professionals who want to craft a fulfilling, long-term career
  • The importance of community as a “force multiplier” in your career

Learn more about Kathy at 

Website: http://SustainableAmbition.com

Sustainable Ambition Podcast: http://SustainableAmbition.com/podcast or https://bit.ly/sustain-pod

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kathy-oneto/

Thank you to our sponsor:

The Smashing the Plateau Community

Unlock premium insights and strategic wisdom from our top podcast experts – subscribe today for your gateway to success with just one click!

How to Offer Transformative Mentorship as an Entrepreneur Featuring Robbie Hardy

Robbie Hardy knows how to navigate the maze of the entrepreneurial journey—and she wants to help you do the same. She can guide you through the highs and lows, from your first major mistake to your first sale. She understands because she’s been there.

A New Englander by birth and an “entrepreneurologist” by trade, Robbie Hardy is an author, experienced investor, and entrepreneur with extensive startup and board experience.

In this episode of Smashing the Plateau, Robbie Hardy, an adept entrepreneur and mentor, talks about her journey from a disenchanted corporate employee to a successful business founder and a passionate advocate for women’s mentorship in business. Dive into Robbie’s story to reveal how she found her true calling in the twists and turns of entrepreneurship.

Robbie and I discuss:

  • The discomfort that led Robbie to leave the corporate world
  • Launching her own business and securing her previous employer as her first client
  • The rollercoaster of starting and selling a software company
  • Utilizing corporate connections to fuel her entrepreneurial ventures
  • Robbie’s mission to mentor women and help them find their voice
  • The dynamics of effective mentorship and its transformative power
  • Robbie’s advice for corporate refugees seeking to venture into entrepreneurship

Learn more about Robbie at https://www.robbiehardy.com/.

Thank you to our sponsor:

The Smashing the Plateau Community

Get your exclusive subscription for direct access to our podcast gurus’ streamlined, precise tips on strategy. One click is all it stands between you and mastering your success journey!

How to Optimize Digital Spaces for Remote Work Productivity Featuring Wendy Ellin

Wendy Ellin is a highly sought-after speaker, author, and consultant. Her #1 bestselling book, “Working From Home…How’s That Working For You?” continues to catch the attention of organizations that want to ensure their employees are able to work with less stress and more job satisfaction, no matter where they work. Her insights into having basic foundational organization systems are shared in her presentations with irreverence, humor, and a level of passion that motivates her audience to TAKE IMMEDIATE ACTION!

Wendy has helped companies like The Home Depot, JCB, American Cancer Society, Spelman College, Cox Communications, Autotrader, PWC, and many more to ensure their people stay engaged, deliver their best work, and have a life outside of work. She believes that when your people win, everyone wins.

Wendy talks about real-life challenges that all busy professionals experience, such as email overload, being on time (or not), reasonable expectations for getting things done, self-defeating behaviors, and much more. It is from Wendy’s 20-plus years in the corporate arena, where she drew on her own successes by working smart, not hard, that inspired her to develop Wendy Ellin’s 3P Academy—a toolbox that fuels radical productivity, peak performance, and a renewed sense of peace of mind.

In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, we delve into the systems and strategies Wendy has developed to make working from home a stress-free and satisfying experience, which are essential for entrepreneurs and professionals in the current climate.

Wendy and I discuss:

  • Her transition from advertising sales to productivity consulting [00:28]
  • What inspired her to write her best selling book [01:48]
  • How to set up a successful work-from-home environment [06:28]
  • Organizing physical and digital workspaces for maximum efficiency [07:12]
  • The importance of systems in productivity (S-Y-S-T-E-M) [08:07]
  • Wendy’s life-changing car accident and its impact on her mission [04:58]
  • Using speaking engagements to grow a business and create an impact [04:08]
  • The role of community and sharing in overcoming organizational challenges [12:24]
  • Wendy’s approach to dealing with disorganization and stress at work [10:25]

Learn more about Wendy at https://linkedin.com/in/wendyellin and www.wendyellin.com.

Thank you to our sponsor: 

The Smashing the Plateau Community 

Activate your subscription now for privileged access to select, focused strategy advice from our podcast specialists – a single click is all that stands between you and your success!

Scroll To Top