Agency Bytes Podcast
Agency Bytes is a video podcast series that packs a ton of important agency information on one topic, from one expert into a 25-minute brief.
Why 25 minutes?
Because who has the attention span for much more these days, and you can squeeze in a listen between meetings with time for a bathroom break or coffee refill before your next meeting.
Easily find the episode you’re looking for with the Podcast Search feature - type in a guest name, topic, or episode number and voila!
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Ep 162 – Megan Long, Second First – What Agency Owners Get Wrong About Delegating to Their Right-Hand Leader
Every founder has a blind spot when it comes to delegation, and it usually shows up as the same bad habit: pulling things back onto their own plate the moment they let go. In this episode, Megan Long of Second First joins me to talk about the role most agencies get wrong from day one, the second-in-command. We dig into why the "sexy resume" hire almost always fails, why the best partnerships look more like a shared Venn diagram than a pair of opposites, and what it actually takes for a founder to leave for a month and come back to a business that grew without them.
Ep 161 – Lynn Juang, Frameworks Consulting – Agency Growth Without the Friction
Lynn Juang spent two decades climbing from client services to COO before deciding she'd rather help founders run their agencies than run one herself. In episode 161, she breaks down why agency growth doesn't have to come with friction, and what actually separates a business that looks successful from a company built to last.
Ep 160 – David Shriner-Cahn, Smashing the Plateau – You Are Your Own Bottleneck — Here's How to Get Out of Your Own Way
Every solopreneur hits a ceiling — the question is whether you know it's there. In episode 160, David Shriner-Cahn of Smashing the Plateau joins me to talk about why expertise-based businesses stall out, and how a trusted peer group can show you the blind spot you can't see for yourself. We get into pricing fear, the discipline of ninety-day objectives, and why a weekly cadence might be the most underrated growth lever you're not using.
Ep. 151 – How Mark Homer Buys & Sells Agencies Without a Pile of Cash
In episode 151, I sit down with Mark Homer of Grandin Holdings to demystify M&A for agency owners. We bust the myth that you need a pile of cash to buy an agency, dig into why your network is your best source of deals, and talk through what actually makes a business sellable — and worth keeping. If you've ever assumed M&A wasn't for you, this one will change your mind.
How Steve Guberman Built, Sold, and Reinvented His Agency — Season 4 Kickoff
In episode 150, I flipped the mic. To kick off Season 4, I handed the host chair to my friend Todd Giannattasio of Tresnic Media — a returning guest from episode 10, and the guy who helped me name Agency Outsight in the first place.
This one's more personal than most. Todd walks me through my journey from screw-off art kid to graphic designer to accidental agency owner, the acquisition that should have been the first of many, selling my agency, and the grief that ultimately reshaped how I think about purpose, work, and what a business is really for. We get into the asset mindset, programmatic M&A as a growth lever, why most founders pay themselves last (and shouldn't), and the copycat goals that keep agency owners chasing someone else's dream.
If you've ever wondered what's actually on the other side of an exit — or whether you're building a business or just a really demanding job — this is the conversation.
Key Bytes
• Most agency founders accidentally build a job, not an asset — and the difference shows up the day you try to sell.
• Programmatic M&A unlocks exponential growth that organic effort simply can't match.
• Buying talent is faster, safer, and more predictable than hiring it.
• You don't need a truckload of cash to acquire — SBA loans, earnouts, and seller financing make deals possible at almost any size.
• Paying yourself last isn't noble — it's a habit that quietly devalues the business you built.
• Copycat revenue goals pull founders into chasing numbers that mean nothing to their actual life.
• Grief, burnout, and life events have a way of forcing the clarity most founders avoid.
• Creative empathy — not tactics — is still the most underrated edge agency owners have.
Chapters
00:00 Flipping the mic: why Todd is interviewing me
02:47 From screw-off art kid to graphic designer
05:30 Starting the agency with ego and no business plan
08:25 The acquisition I should have repeated four times
11:00 Selling the agency and what came after
14:30 Grief, COVID, and finding purpose in the garden
17:10 Launching Agency Outsight and pricing it on instinct
21:40 The asset mindset: building enterprise value
26:00 Programmatic M&A as the real growth lever
30:15 Why founders pay themselves last (and shouldn't)
33:00 Copycat goals and chasing someone else's dream
36:00 Rapid-fire questions and closing thoughts
Ep 114 – Courtney De Ronde, Forge Financial – Unlocking Business Growth
Ep 113 – Dr. Jeremy Weisz, Rise25 – The Gift of Podcasting
In episode 113, I sit down with Dr. Jeremy Weisz, co-founder of Rise 25 and host of the Inspired Insider podcast. Jeremy and I talk about how podcasting—when used the right way—can become one of the most effective tools for building real relationships, not just content. He breaks down the Dream 200 strategy for identifying ideal clients, why giving value always beats chasing sales, and how his agency uses both podcasting and strategic gifting to keep top-of-mind with partners and clients. We also dive into how he accidentally became an agency owner, the underrated power of thoughtful gifts, and his take on creating a high-impact referral ecosystem. And yes, we end with some rapid-fire questions—including the surprising mascot he’d pick for his agency.
Key Bytes
• Podcasting is a powerful tool for networking and professional development.
• Building relationships through podcasting can lead to business opportunities.
• The Dream 200 strategy helps identify and target ideal clients.
• Giving away valuable information attracts the right clients.
• Gifting strategies can enhance client engagement and retention.
• Podcasting can serve multiple purposes: authority building, SEO, and content creation.
• Networking through podcasts can create referral partnerships.
• Understanding your niche is crucial for effective marketing.
• Regular touchpoints with clients through gifts can strengthen relationships.
• Consider the source of business advice before acting on it.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Podcasting and Rise 25
02:52 The Evolution of Podcasting and Its Benefits
05:47 Building Relationships Through Podcasting
09:10 The Dream 200 Strategy for Targeting Clients
11:53 Gifting Strategies for Client Engagement
14:54 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts
Dr. Jeremy Weisz has been featuring top entrepreneurs with video interviews since 2008 that include founders/CEOs of Pixar, P90X, Atari, Einstein Bagels, Mattel, Kettle Chips, RX Bars, Big League Chew, the Orlando Magic, and many more on www.InspiredInsider.com
He runs Rise25 which helps B2B businesses connect to their ‘Dream 200’ clients, and referral partners and get ROI, using a podcast. They eliminate 99% of the work and make sure you get ROI. Rise25 is an easy button for you to launch and run your podcast.
Podcasting has been one of the best things I've done both personally and professionally. It's been an amazing tool for connecting with referral partners, strategic partners, clients, and more.
Podcasting is like a "Swiss Army knife" because it is business development, referral marketing, strategic partnerships, lead generation, SEO, content creation, and personal and professional development, all in one.
Contact Dr. Weisz:
Ep 114 – Courtney De Ronde, Forge Financial – Unlocking Business Growth
In episode 114, I sit down with Courtney De Ronde, CEO of Forge Financial and Management Consulting, to talk about the powerful intersection of financial visibility and leadership growth. Courtney shares her journey from CPA to strategic business advisor, and we dig into her Simple Scale Up System—a framework designed to help agency leaders evolve from scrappy doers to scalable CEOs.
We explore the importance of accurate revenue recognition, the dangers of relying too heavily on gut instincts, and the mindset shifts needed to lead at the next level. Courtney also gets candid about AI’s impact on the accounting industry and why embracing technology is a must—not a maybe. We wrap things up with some rapid-fire questions that reveal the human side of this numbers expert.
Key Bytes
• Courtney De Ronde has over 20 years of experience as a CPA.
• Understanding financial visibility is crucial for business growth.
• AI presents both challenges and opportunities in the CPA industry.
• The Simple Scale Up System focuses on scaling leaders and organizations.
• Leaders must shift from relying on instincts to leveraging insights.
• Cash flow issues often indicate deeper business problems.
• Delegation and trust are essential for scaling a business.
• Learning from others' failures can accelerate growth.
• Financial reporting should match revenue with related expenses.
• Things don't have to be perfect to be effective.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Agency Bites and Guest Background
01:04 Courtney's Evolution from CPA to Business Leader
03:19 Understanding Financial Visibility and Coaching Services
04:12 Common Financial Red Flags in Service-Based Businesses
08:06 The Impact of AI on the CPA Industry
12:25 The Simple Scale Up System Framework
15:46 Shifting Mindsets: From Instincts to Insights
22:53 Challenges in Scaling Dependent Businesses
25:13 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts
Courtney De Ronde is the CEO of Forge Financial & Management Consulting and the creator of the Simple ScaleUp System™. With over 20 years as a CPA and 15 years in business
leadership, Courtney specializes in guiding small businesses from startup to scaleup. She’s an expert in business intelligence, leadership, and corporate finance. We’re thrilled to have her share her insights on how you can achieve your most ambitious goals.
Take our free Business Intelligence Grader to gain visibility within their business
Ep 103 – Greg Hickman, AltAgency – Simplify, Productize, Scale
In episode 103 of Agency Bytes, I sit down with Greg Hickman, founder of Alt Agency and an expert at helping agency owners break free from the time-for-money grind. Greg shares his fascinating journey from the world of big agencies to building his own seven-figure business—while working just 25 hours a week! We dive deep into the pitfalls of the traditional agency model and explore how the Alt Agency approach helps owners productize their services, streamline operations, and reclaim their time.
Greg and I also unpack the difference between productizing and commoditizing agency work (hint: you don’t have to sacrifice creativity for efficiency!). We talk about scaling smart, building systems that don’t drain your soul, and why redefining wealth goes beyond the numbers in your bank account. Plus, Greg shares some personal stories and life lessons about being present for the moments that really matter, in business and at home.
If you’re looking to run a more sustainable and rewarding agency, this is one you won’t want to miss.
Key Bytes
• Greg Hickman transitioned from traditional agency roles to founding AllAgency.
• The Alt Agency model focuses on monetizing expertise rather than just labor.
• Productization of services can lead to greater scalability and efficiency.
• Wealth is defined not just by money, but by time and health.
• Agencies can benefit from creating multiple service tiers to cater to different client needs.
• The lines between agencies, SaaS, and coaching are increasingly blurred.
• Building a scalable business requires a shift in mindset and operations.
• Automation and systems are key to reducing workload and increasing profits.
• Greg's journey highlights the importance of adapting to market needs.
• The impact of helping 800 agencies showcases the ripple effect of effective coaching.
• Productized services focus on specific outcomes.
• Systematization helps agencies improve efficiency and profitability.
• Lead generation is crucial for agency success.
• Productization simplifies marketing and client management.
• Agencies often lose money due to inefficient pricing models.
• Creativity can thrive within a productized framework.
• Differentiation is key to avoiding commoditization.
• Personal growth involves learning from past experiences.
• Being present in personal life enhances overall happiness.
• Enjoying the journey is as important as the destination.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Agency Bites and Guest Background
01:30 Greg's Journey in the Agency World
04:21 Transitioning to the Alt Agency Model
07:37 The Evolution of Services and Client Focus
10:40 Impact and Scale of the Alt Agency Model
12:59 Defining Wealth Beyond Money
13:31 Understanding the Alt Agency Model
19:54 Building a Scalable Offer Suite
21:31 Transforming Agency Services into Productized Offerings
24:33 The Importance of Systematization in Agencies
27:52 Lead Generation and Client Retention Challenges
30:19 Differentiating Productization from Commoditization
33:21 Personal Insights and Life Lessons
Greg Hickman helps agency owners and consultants escape the trap of trading time for money. After nearly two decades working with brands like Pepsi, AT&T, and the NY Jets, Greg built his own marketing automation agency and built funnels and systems for entrepreneurs like Dan Martell, Chris Ducker, John Lee Dumas, Jasmin Star, Nerd Fitness, and more. Now through AltAgency, he's helped over 800+ service providers build profitable, sustainable businesses by productizing their services and monetizing their expertise. Greg runs his 7-figure business working 3-4 days per week (most weeks), taking Fridays off for mountain biking, and wants to help others learn how to do the same. His unique approach helps owners ‘scale’ profits without scaling the complexity or sacrificing their lives.
Contact Greg:
Ep 102 – Rena DeLevie – Mindful Leadership
In episode 102 of Agency Bites, I’m joined by Rena DeLevie—a leader and teacher who gets real about what it actually takes to show up fully and compassionately in today’s world. Yes, she’s got the corporate leadership chops and has been on a mission to end fear-based management, but what resonated most with me in this conversation was how personal and human her journey is.
Rena shares how, as someone with deep empathy and anxiety in her DNA, she learned to soothe her nervous system so she could show up with clarity and compassion—not just at work, but everywhere. We talk about the practices she leans on every day—meditation, breathwork, walking in the woods, connecting with nature, and even humor—as ways to ground herself and navigate stress, overwhelm, and tough decisions.
She’s lived through corporate toxicity, hard layoffs, and the pressure to “toughen up” as a leader. But instead of staying stuck in survival mode, she learned how to reconnect with herself, how to be present, and how to lead with kindness without losing her edge.
This isn’t just a conversation about business—it’s about how we take care of ourselves so we can take care of others. It’s about slowing down enough to be intentional in how we speak, lead, and live. It’s about taking care of ourselves all ways, always.
If you’ve been feeling stretched thin, reactive, or stuck in fight-or-flight mode, this episode will give you some simple but powerful ways to reset and recenter. Let’s get into it.
Key Bytes
• Compassion can radically transform agency culture and leadership.
• Fear-based management often leads to anxiety and burnout.
• Authenticity in leadership energizes both the leader and the team.
• Compassion and accountability must coexist in effective leadership.
• Daily meditation can help manage anxiety and foster self-awareness.
• Choosing yourself means prioritizing self-compassion and understanding.
• Humor can shift the energy of a toxic work environment.
• Compassionate leadership requires setting boundaries and not being a doormat.
• Navigating toxic environments often requires personal resilience and strategy.
• Modeling compassionate behavior can influence workplace culture positively.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Compassionate Leadership
01:15 The Shift from Fear-Based to Compassionate Leadership
04:06 The Energizing Power of Authenticity
10:00 Navigating Toxic Work Environments
12:56 Compassion and Accountability in Leadership
19:46 Daily Practices for Compassionate Living
25:52 Choosing Yourself: The Path to Self-Compassion
31:50 The Importance of Humor and Perspective in Leadership
Rena combines over 25 years with Fortune 500 companies and 20 years as a practitioner of mindfulness/meditation to show us the path to eliminating the fear-based culture so prevalent in
corporate America. Her book, Compassionate Management, How Ambitious Creatives Become Kick-Ass Leaders, and her TEDxTalk, Compassionate Management -- using compassion as a business tool has been used in businesses around the globe as a model to radically change leadership culture and how we treat one another.
Rena has given a TEDx Talk, presented at over 30 conferences, led over 60 workshops, and been on
dozens of podcasts. Rena is a high-energy presenter and interactively engages audience members to show compassionate leadership in action. This experiential approach empowers attendees to redefine their own leadership style and evolve their expectations of leadership culture.
Contact Rena on their website: renadelevie.com
Ep 101 – Kyra Cavanaugh, Free Yourself – Workplace Wellbeing
In Episode 101 of Agency Bytes, I sit down with Kyra Cavanaugh, a wellbeing consultant, meditation coach, and Qigong instructor, for a conversation that feels like a deep breath in the middle of a hectic workday. We explore what it really means to prioritize wellbeing—not just for ourselves but for our teams and the people we lead.
Kyra shares practical, down-to-earth strategies for finding balance in a world that pushes us to hustle nonstop. We talk about how small, intentional moments of self-care can ripple into productivity, creativity, and stronger connections—both at work and in life. From recognizing when a teammate (or you) might need a breather, to breaking the cycle of “push through and crash later” culture, this episode is all about giving yourself permission to slow down in order to show up fully.
If you’ve ever struggled with burnout, felt the pressure to always be “on,” or wondered how to create a healthier, more human-centered workplace, this conversation is for you. Take a pause and join us.
Key Bytes
• Wellbeing is essential for productivity and creativity.
• Connection and mental health challenges have been prevalent for years.
• Daily self-care practices can help mitigate stress.
• Leaders must model wellbeing for their teams.
• Emotional intelligence is crucial in leadership.
• Establishing boundaries is key to healthy workplace relationships.
• Investing in oneself is a necessary practice.
• Simple check-ins can foster team connection.
• Recognizing the impact of personal struggles is important.
• Human connection should be prioritized in the workplace.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Wellbeing in the Workplace
05:55 Shifting Mindsets: From Work-Life Balance to Daily Wellbeing
11:48 Practical Strategies for Self-Care and Team Support
17:50 Emotional Intelligence in Leadership
23:50 Fostering Human Connection in the Workplace
Kyra Cavanaugh is a well-being consultant, meditation and healing coach, and Qigong instructor. She's worked with hundreds of businesses and thousands of leaders to improve personal, team and organizational well-being. She's an author, podcaster, speaker, coach and serial entrepreneur based in Asheville, NC where she loves to hike and listen to local, live music.
www.15Be.com
www.freeyourself.world
Ep 100 – Debbie Millman – Lessons in Leadership, Design, and Abundance
In the 100th episode of Agency Bytes, I couldn’t think of a more fitting guest to mark this milestone than the legendary Debbie Millman. As a designer, writer, educator, and the pioneering host of Design Matters, Debbie has shaped the creative industry in ways that continue to inspire me and so many others. In this conversation, we dive into her remarkable journey—from leading Sterling Brands to an Omnicom acquisition, to her impact on branding and design education, and even the evolution of her own 20-year podcasting career. She shares invaluable insights on leadership, overcoming rejection, embracing an abundance mindset, and finding inspiration in unexpected places. Plus, we discuss her upcoming book Love Letter to a Garden and the deeply personal connection between creativity and growth. It’s an episode filled with wisdom, warmth, and a celebration of resilience in the creative industry.
In this episode, we dig into:
• Debbie’s leadership at Sterling Brands and the journey to an Omnicom acquisition
• The evolution of Design Matters and what 20 years of podcasting has taught her
• How an abundance vs. scarcity mindset changed her creative path
• The impact of Milton Glaser’s mentorship and his powerful five-year vision exercise
• Advocating for women in design and her role in Omnicom’s Omniwomen network
• Dealing with rejection, imposter syndrome, and the realities of a creative career
• Her new book Love Letter to a Garden and the inspiration behind it
So, whether you’ve been here since episode one or you’re tuning in for the first time, thank you for being part of this journey with me. I sincerely hope you enjoy this special 100th episode of Agency Bytes with the one and only Debbie Millman!
Key Bytes
• Debbie became a shareholder at Sterling Brands in 1998.
• Leadership requires balancing financial acumen with creative passion.
• Debbie's management style was demanding yet fair.
• The acquisition by Omnicom was a pivotal moment for Sterling Brands.
• Debbie actively mentors and advocates for women in the industry.
• Her podcast, Design Matters, has evolved significantly over 20 years.
• Debbie's closing statement reflects her commitment to making a difference.
• The podcast has maintained a loyal audience despite industry changes.
• Debbie's early writing for Armin Vitt's blog sparked her design journey.
• Milton Glaser's teachings on scarcity and abundance were transformative for Debbie.
• Writing a five-year plan helped Debbie visualize her future.
• Debbie emphasizes the importance of teaching and sharing knowledge.
• Rejections are a common experience, and feelings are temporary.
• Travel serves as a major source of inspiration for Debbie's work.
• Debbie's upcoming book combines her love for gardening and visual storytelling.
• Debbie encourages embracing both successes and failures in one's career.
• Believing in oneself is crucial for achieving goals.
Chapters
00:00 Celebrating Milestones: The 100th Episode
12:37 Navigating Challenges in a Changing Market
18:06 Empowering Women in Creative Industries
24:42 The Evolution of Design Conversations
33:35 Navigating Rejections and Setbacks
42:05 Upcoming Projects and Personal Growth
Named “one of the most creative people in business” by Fast Company, “one of the most influential designers working today” by GDUSA, and a “Woman of Influence” by Success magazine, Debbie Millman is also an author, educator, designer, and podcast pioneer. Debbie is the host of the Webby and Signal award-winning podcast Design Matters, one of the first and longest-running podcasts in the world; Chair of the first-ever Masters in Branding Program at the School of Visual Arts, Co-owner and Editorial Director of PrintMag.com, and the author of seven books on design and branding. Debbie is the recipient of a Cooper Hewitt National Design Award and a Lifetime Achievement award from AIGA, the Professional Association for Design. She is currently a Harvard Business School Executive Fellow and was recently invited to the Design Advisory Board of Canva.
Contact Debbie:
Ep 099 – Kelly Campbell – The New TLC (Trauma, Leadership, and Consciousness)
In episode 099 of Agency Bytes, I got to have our first-ever repeat guest: Kelly Campbell. Kelly is a trauma-informed leadership coach, author of Heal to Lead, and creator of The New TLC: Trauma, Leadership, and Consciousness on Substack. They aren’t just talking about leadership—they’re redefining what it means to be a leader in today’s world, starting from the inside out.
This conversation goes deep. We’re talking about the unspoken struggles that agency owners face—the hidden emotional baggage, the past experiences that shape how we lead, and why doing the inner work isn’t just self-care, but a leadership imperative.
Kelly shares how their own journey led to a radical shift in understanding leadership—not as a performance, but as an extension of our healing. We unpack why self-awareness is the foundation of trust, how compassion (not control) is the key to stronger teams, and why integrating past trauma is essential for leading with clarity and confidence.
We also get into:
• Why so many leaders struggle with reactivity, trust, and burnout—and how to break the cycle.
• The real difference between empathy and compassion (and why one is more effective in leadership).
• The danger of people-pleasing in leadership—when “being supportive” crosses into self-sacrifice.
• How agency leaders can create cultures of psychological safety, especially in uncertain times.
• Kelly’s bold decision to step away from LinkedIn for a year—and why they’re doubling down on deeper, more meaningful conversations on The New TLC.
• The agency landscape in 2025—why some agencies are thriving while others are struggling, and what owners need to focus on to stay ahead.
If you’ve ever felt like leadership was more exhausting than it should be—if you’ve questioned why certain situations trigger you, or if you want to create a more human, connected, and resilient agency culture—this episode will challenge you in all the right ways.
Kelly’s insights are game-changing, their wisdom is undeniable, and this conversation is one you don’t want to miss.
Key Bytes
• Publishing a book is a unique and challenging journey.
• The feedback from my book has led many to seek therapy.
• Vulnerability in leadership fosters trust and connection.
• Creating supportive environments is crucial for employee well-being.
• Compassionate leadership can reduce attrition and enhance collaboration.
• Personal experiences shape our leadership styles and effectiveness.
• Building community is essential for personal and professional growth.
• Experimenting with social media can lead to clearer boundaries.
• Daily practices can significantly impact overall well-being.
• Self-awareness is key to effective leadership.
Chapters
00:00 The Journey of Healing Leadership
06:30 The Creative Process of Writing a Book
12:00 Personal Growth Through Vulnerability
19:22 Navigating Leadership and Emotional Intelligence
23:44 Creating Supportive Work Environments
29:11 The Future of Leadership in a Changing World
33:12 Building Community and Personal Practices
39:53 Experimenting with Social Media and Boundaries
Kelly L. Campbell (they/them) is a Trauma-Informed Leadership Coach to emerging and established leaders who want to live, lead, and love with confidence and freedom. They are the author of HEAL TO LEAD: Revolutionizing Leadership through Trauma Healing. As a Sacred Trauma Healing practitioner, they work one-on-one with those who have experienced trauma in childhood or adulthood. Kelly has written for Entrepreneur, Fast Company and Forbes, and currently writes on Substack about “The New TLC: Trauma, Leadership, and Consciousness.” Their vision is for more than half of humanity to heal its childhood trauma so that we may reimagine and rebuild the world together.
Contact Kelly:
https://kellylcampbell.substack.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellylcampbell/
https://www.instagram.com/kelly.l.campbell/
Ep 091 – Brad Farris, Anchor Advisors – CEO Success Habits
In episode 091 of Agency Bytes, I had the pleasure of chatting with Brad Harris from Anchor Advisors about one of the biggest challenges agency owners face — scaling their businesses. Together, we dig through some of the must-have habits that a CEO needs to find their version of success.
We dove into the mindset shifts that are crucial for growth, the tricky transition from being a consultant to stepping into a true coaching role, and why trust is absolutely essential when it comes to delegation.
Brad shared some incredible insights on how agency owners can break through that million-dollar revenue barrier, find real satisfaction in leadership, and avoid the endless cycle of overwork that so many of us fall into.
We also talked about building a healthy work culture and how shifting your perspective can make all the difference in solving problems.
And of course, we wrapped things up with some rapid-fire questions to get a few personal insights from Brad — always a fun way to end the conversation!
It’s a great episode packed with value, and I can’t wait for you to listen.
Key Bytes
• Success is driven less by what you do than who you decide to be.
• The biggest hurdle to growth is often internal.
• Transitioning from doing to orchestrating is crucial for agency growth.
• Micromanaging can lead to decreased performance in teams.
• Finding satisfaction in seeing others succeed is key.
• Overworking does not equate to better results.
• Taking breaks can simplify overwhelming problems.
• A healthy work culture is essential for team morale.
• Trusting your team is vital for effective delegation.
• It's important to recognize that not everything is as critical as it seems.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Agency Growth Challenges
03:02 Mindset Shift: From Consulting to Coaching
05:50 Overcoming the Million-Dollar Barrier
08:58 The Importance of Trust in Delegation
12:07 Finding Satisfaction Beyond the Craft
15:07 Breaking the Cycle of Overwork
18:01 The Power of Perspective in Problem Solving
20:58 Creating a Healthy Work Culture
23:51 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts
Brad Harris from Anchor Advisors is known for helping agency and expert firm owners grow through the $1M—2M barrier to become thriving $3M —$5M agencies.
For over twenty years, Brad has worked alongside agency owners to help them sharpen their focus, raise their prices, and hire better people so that their firms can scale.
In his work with hundreds of agency owners, he’s learned that success is driven less by what you do than who you decide to be, and the biggest hurdle to your agency’s growth is between your ears.
Contact Brad:
https://anchoradvisors.com/self-leadership-assessment/
http://www.anchoradvisors.com/growth-phase
Ep 085 – Dia Bondi – How to Ask for More
In Episode 085 of Agency Bytes, I had the privilege of sitting down with Dia Bondi, a communications expert and author of Ask Like an Auctioneer. Dia shares her fascinating journey from the world of auctioneering to becoming a sought-after communication coach.
We dive deep into the art of asking effectively in high-stakes situations, exploring how to embrace rejection, craft impactful asks, and understand the value behind what you're offering. Dia introduces her powerful framework for building and delivering asks with confidence and clarity.
This episode is packed with insights on training your mindset to recognize what you truly want, articulate it boldly, and go after it fearlessly. Dia inspires us to make our dreams known and actively chase our goals with intention and determination.
If you’ve ever struggled with asking for what you deserve, this conversation is one you don’t want to miss!
Key Takeaways
• Asking like an auctioneer involves maximizing potential asks.
• Rejection should be seen as a sign of success, not failure.
• Design your asks based on what you truly want, not what you think you can get.
• Understanding the perceived value is crucial in negotiations.
• The offer inside the ask should benefit both parties involved.
• Mindset plays a significant role in how we approach asking for what we want.
• It's important to communicate your dreams to those around you.
• Asking for more can lead to greater outcomes than anticipated.
• The process of auctioneering provides valuable insights into effective communication.
• Honesty and generosity should guide your asks, not manipulation.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Asking Like an Auctioneer
05:16 The Connection Between Asking and Auctioneering
10:28 Mindset: Embracing Rejection
15:30 Designing Your Ask
20:57 The Offer Inside the Ask
27:03 Final Thoughts and Rapid Fire Questions
Dia Bondi is a Communications Catalyst, Speaker and Author of Ask Like an Auctioneer: How to Ask for More and Get It. She coaches VC-backed founders, executives, and ambitious professionals to speak powerfully when the stakes are high. She helped Rio de Janeiro win the right to host the 2016 Summer Olympics and has helped countless leaders secure hundreds of millions in decisions and resources. A hobbyist fundraising auctioneer, Dia’s TEDx Talk was selected as a TED Editors’ Pick, showcasing how to make the kinds of asks that can change everything.
Ep 083 – Jody Sutter, The Sutter Company – Build, Win, Scale
In Episode 083, I had the pleasure of chatting with Jody Sutter, owner of Sutter Company, about her journey in business development and our shared mission of supporting small marketing agencies with their sales and marketing efforts. Jody introduces her Build Win Scale System—a practical, step-by-step approach to help agencies identify their ideal clients, improve messaging, and strengthen their teams for business growth.
Throughout our conversation, Jody shares why it's crucial for agencies to focus on sales and marketing fundamentals, like pinpointing the right clients and solving their unique challenges. We also explore how to tackle seasonality in the agency world and the power of prioritizing one thing at a time for sustainable success. Don’t miss this insightful episode!
Key Takeaways
Focus on the basics of sales and marketing, such as identifying your ideal client and solving their problems.
Prioritize and focus on one thing at a time to make progress.
Use the dips in business to work on strategic projects and improve your agency.
Consider integrating AI tools to streamline processes and improve efficiency.
Reflect on the value you provide to your clients and turn it into a compelling message.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
06:32 The BuildWin Scale System
12:58 Challenges and Pitfalls in Agency Business Development
17:41 Managing Seasonality in the Agency Business
20:12 Prioritization and Focus
25:15 Integrating AI in Agency Operations
31:05 Turning Value into a Compelling Message
32:40 Closing Remarks
Jody is the owner of The Sutter Company, a business development coaching and advisory firm,
and the inventor of the BUILD WIN SCALETM system, a step-by-step process designed to help
leaders of small marketing agencies identify and activate their natural talents for sales and
marketing, leading to a sustainable approach to winning new business.
Ep 082 – Chris Martinez, Bloom Partners – Operational Underdogs
In episode 082, I sit down with Chris Martinez, CEO and founder of Bloom Partners, who shares his journey from building a successful marketing agency to transitioning into management consulting. Chris dives into the importance of data-driven strategies and setting clear KPIs for each department, emphasizing how these metrics fuel growth. We discuss the impact of AI on the industry, and Chris encourages agency owners to embrace the new possibilities it brings. He also talks about the critical role of personal fulfillment in business success—how finding joy in all areas of life directly boosts both individual and company performance.
Key Takeaways
• Set clear KPIs for each department in your agency and track them using simple tools like Google Sheets.
• Embrace AI and leverage its capabilities to improve efficiency and productivity in your agency.
• Focus on personal fulfillment in physical health, mental health, relationships, and business to achieve overall success.
• The business is a reflection of you, so ensure that other areas of your life are in balance for optimal performance.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:08 Building a Marketing Agency and Transitioning to Management Consulting
05:54 Data-Driven Strategies and Clear KPIs
09:00 Embracing AI in the Agency Industry
12:56 The Importance of Personal Fulfillment in Business
Chris Martinez, CEO and Founder of BLOOMAgency.io, has turned his passion for helping underdogs into a thriving business, growing his company from zero to millions in revenue. Recognized with a 2021 Stevie Award for Minority-Owned Business of the Year, Chris also hosts the popular podcast Operation Agency Freedom. He is the author of four books, including the Amazon Bestseller It’s Not JUST A Website, and his latest release, Facts Not Feelings, offers insights on scaling a marketing agency with data-driven strategies.
Contact Chris:
Ep 081 – David C. Baker, Punctuation – Preparing to Sell Your Agency
In episode 081, I sit down with David C. Baker, a renowned consultant, author, and speaker in the advertising agency world. We explore David's journey from grad school to founding his consultancy, Punctuation, and later bringing his son into the business. David shares key traits that drive successful agencies—courage, discipline, strategic positioning, and effective team management. We discuss business resets, lead generation, and the science behind agency positioning, along with the advantages of running an agency with future acquisition in mind. Beyond business, David talks about his personal passions like motorcycling, woodworking, and photography. Tune in for valuable insights into managing and scaling a creative agency.
Key Takeaways
• Courage and discipline are key traits for agency leaders
• Positioning is crucial for agency success and requires testing and refinement
• Running an agency as if you're going to sell it can lead to better overall performance
• Woodworking, motorcycle racing, and photography are David's hobbies
• Stop things that no longer serve you and simplify your life
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:07 The Importance of Courage and Discipline in Agency Leadership
06:29 The Process of Positioning and Testing
11:17 Keys to Making an Agency Attractive for Sale
15:16 David's Hobbies: Woodworking, Motorcycle Racing, and Photography
18:20 Advice for Agency Owners: Stop and Simplify
David C. Baker is an author, speaker, and advisor to entrepreneurial creatives worldwide. He has written 6 books, advised 1,000+ firms, and keynoted conferences in 30+ countries. His work has been discussed in the Wall Street Journal, Fast Company, Forbes, USA Today, BusinessWeek, CBS News, Newsweek, AdWeek, and Inc. Magazine. He lives in Nashville, TN. His two most recent books are at http://www.expertise.is and https://www.tradecraft.is His work has also been featured in the NY Times, where he was recently referred to as “the expert’s expert”. He co-hosts the most listened to podcast in the creative services field (2Bobs).
Contact David:
Ep 078 – Jhana Li, Spyglass Ops – Maximizing Team Performance
In episode 078, Jhana Li, founder of Spyglass Ops, shares her inspiring journey from living van life to building her own successful operations consulting company. She talks about how she helps agency owners scale their businesses while regaining personal freedom by mastering the power of operations.
Jhana highlights how crucial operations are for growth and profitability, explaining how optimizing team performance, delegating tasks effectively, and implementing solid systems and processes allow founders to focus on high-value activities that drive real results. This episode is packed with practical insights for anyone looking to scale their agency while building a more efficient, sustainable business.
Key Takeaways
• Operations is crucial for scaling an agency and maximizing profitability.
• Optimizing team performance and implementing systems and processes are key to success.
• Founders should focus on high-value activities and delegate tasks to free up time.
• Raising the bar for success and setting higher standards can lead to team growth and success.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:04 The Importance of Operations in Scaling
08:23 Maximizing Team Performance
17:23 Raising the Bar for Success
Jhana Li, founder of Spyglass Ops. Jhana started as a COO for multiple startups - while living van life. After seeing countless founders stall out & trap themselves without the proper Operations, 3 years ago Jhana decided to start Spyglass Ops. Since then she has helped more than 100 businesses scale past 7 & 8-figures. Through Operations consulting, recruitment, and training, Spyglass Ops empowers founders to simultaneously scale their businesses while regaining their personal freedom.
Jhana Li started as a COO for multiple startups (while simultaneously traveling full-time in a converted van through N & S America). After seeing countless founders stall out & trap themselves without the proper Operations, 3 years ago Jhana decided to start her own company, Spyglass Ops. Since then she has helped 100+ businesses scale past 7 & 8-figures. Through Operations consulting, recruitment, and training, Spyglass Ops empowers founders to simultaneously scale their businesses while regaining their personal freedom.
Contact Jhana Li:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thejhanali
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejhanali/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhana-li/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@theJhanaLi/
Website: https://spyglassops.com/
Ep 077 – David D. Doerrier, Present Your Way to Success
Episode 077 features David Durer, an expert in training and development. He shares insights on empowering people to reach their maximum speaking potential. He discusses the principles of adult learning theory, including ownership, complexity, and primacy and recency. He also provides tips for engaging virtual audiences and delivering impactful presentations. David emphasizes the importance of understanding the audience, practicing, and using relatable stories. He also highlights the challenges of virtual presentations and suggests incorporating theater of the mind techniques. Lastly, he advises taking things one step at a time and not getting overwhelmed.
Key Takeaways
• Understand your audience and deliver your message in a way that connects with them.
• Practice, practice, practice to improve your presentation skills.
• Use relatable stories to engage your audience and make complex concepts more understandable.
• In virtual presentations, incorporate theater of the mind techniques to compensate for the lack of visual and auditory cues.
• Take things one step at a time and avoid getting overwhelmed.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:46 The Principles of Adult Learning Theory
07:08 Engaging Virtual Audiences and Delivering Impactful Presentations
16:17 The Importance of Opening and Closing a Presentation
26:18 Advice for Business Professionals
With over 30 years of experience in training and development, instructional design, leadership, corporate training, public speaking, and an expert in the Adult Learning Theory, David is passionate about empowering people to reach their maximum speaking potential.
Known for his engaging style and ability to connect with his audience, David is in high demand as a speaker and trainer at industry conferences, corporate events, and educational institutions nationwide.
He has a knack for simplifying complex concepts and delivering practical insights that enable his clients to elevate their presentation skills.
Contact David:
https://presentyourwaytosuccess.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/daviddoerrier/
FREE eBook “Eight Principles of Engagement” - https://18ccf54b6b4.benchmarkpages.com/ebook1
Ep 064 – Justine Clay, – ADHD, Creativity, and Cultivating the Conditions to Thrive
In Episode 064, I had the pleasure of having an inspiring conversation with Justine Clay, a business coach and ADHD life coach for creative entrepreneurs. Justine shares her journey from working in the creative industry to launching her own coaching business, and how these experiences have shaped her current work. She delves into the unique challenges and strengths of individuals with ADHD and the importance of fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment. Justine discusses the need for leadership to understand and accommodate neurodivergent team members and examines the impact of remote work on those with ADHD. Throughout the conversation, Justine emphasizes creating spaces that foster connection and meaningful experiences, and the importance of being present and taking care of ourselves in our daily lives. She also shares valuable business advice on focusing on solutions rather than problems and keeping the client at the center of our thoughts and messaging.
Key Takeaways
• Understanding the unique challenges and strengths of individuals with ADHD is crucial for creating a supportive work environment.
• Leadership should strive to accommodate the needs of neurodivergent team members and provide them with the tools and resources they need to thrive.
• Remote work can be beneficial for individuals with ADHD, as it allows for greater flexibility and control over their work environment.
• Creating an open and inclusive culture where individuals feel comfortable communicating their needs is essential for fostering productivity and well-being.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:00 Becoming an Independent Creative Professional
06:00 Starting a Creative Management Agency
09:00 Transitioning to Coaching
13:00 Becoming an ADHD Coach
15:00 ADHD as a Superpower, or not
19:00 Supporting Neurodivergent Individuals
21:00 Coaching Leadership on Working with Neurodivergent Team Members
25:00 The Impact of Remote Work on ADHD
35:00 Personal Hobbies and Tools
38:02 Creating Spaces for Connection and Experience
39:12 Focus on Solutions, Not Problems
Ep 050 – Ilise Benun, Marketing Mentor – The Simplest Marketing Plan
With the launch of Season Two of Agency Bytes, I'm thrilled to introduce an extraordinary guest for this momentous occasion – Ilise Benun from Marketing Mentor. Ilise is not only a longtime friend but also someone I've admired for decades. In this episode, I had the privilege of delving into Ilise's invaluable insights on her "Simplest Marketing Plan" and how she guides creative professionals to success by helping them focus and identify their market. We discuss the importance of cultivating a deep, focused niche and Ilise lays out actionable steps to achieve this.
Ilise believes that building your business should be enjoyable and shares her observations on why many agency owners struggle with their marketing efforts due to being too close to their businesses. We dissect the difference between horizontal and vertical niches, exploring how the latter can significantly boost marketing endeavors. Ilise also emphasizes the significance of sub-niches and provides guidance on expanding into new niches.
Furthermore, Ilise outlines her comprehensive program focusing on marketing, money, and mindset, identifying these as key areas of weakness for most creatives. We also challenge the notion that referrals are always beneficial and discuss strategies to overcome complacency in business development.
Tune in to uncover some of the invaluable secrets Ilise has accumulated over her more than 30 years as a creative business coach. This episode is packed with actionable insights and wisdom you won't want to miss!
