Breaking Down Your Business | Small Business | Business Owners | Entrepreneurship | Leadership

<img class="aligncenter wp-image-2831 size-full" src="http://breakingdownyourbusiness.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/134_Horizontal-Podcast-Art2.png" alt="Top 5 items for year-end review" width="585" height="182" />


<h2>What’s In This Episode:</h2>
Is this the busiest time of the year for your biz? Or are you mentally checked out? (Or both?!) Jill and Brad discuss what they do for their respective businesses at the end of the year and Jill alludes to just how much egg nog she'll be drinking this holiday season. They also talk about the <b class="">Top 5 Things To Review At The End of the Year</b> in this episode.  and they welcome Michelle Koclanis to the show.<span class=""> </span><strong><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/breaking-down-your-business/id784888385" target="_blank">Listen in! »</a></strong>
<h2>Rant:</h2>
<ul>
<li>JILL HAS A LOT TO SAY ABOUT SOMEONE WHO WON'T STOP FOLLOWING UP WITH HER EVEN THOUGH SHE ADVISES PEOPLE TO FOLLOW UP EVERY SINGLE EPISODE. You may wanna tune in juuuuuuust to hear how angry Jill is at a certain woman who shall not be named...whose name is Heather.</li>
</ul>
<i>
<img class="alignleft wp-image-2788 " style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" src="http://breakingdownyourbusiness.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/134_Square-Podcast-Art-150x150.png" alt="Lookin' Back | Ep. 134" width="115" height="115" />Talk to us! Leave us a Google Voicemail so that we can read it in a future episode at </i><i>708.872.7878</i><i>. Or tweet at us using hashtag #jillnbrad. And leave us a review on iTunes — pretty please? </i><strong><i><a href="http://breakingdownyourbusiness.com/itunes" target="_blank">Over here</a>!</i></strong>

&nbsp;

Direct download: Lookin_Back___Ep._134.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

<img class="aligncenter wp-image-2780 size-full" src="http://breakingdownyourbusiness.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/133_Horizontal-Podcast-Art.png" alt="Top 5 Secrets to Great Rest" width="585" height="182" />

[app_audio src=""]
<h2>What’s In This Episode:</h2>
Do you value sleep? Or do you value caffeine? Pick a side: Brad doesn't do caffeine and has replaced it with solid rest while Jill enjoys the perks of a dark brew and resists a good night's sleep (particularly before recording this podcast for that extra punch.) So it only makes sense that Jill &amp; Brad talk about the <b class="">Top 5 Secrets To Getting Great Rest</b> in this episode and they get a surprise call from Blue Deer Designs' Nedra Rezinas who responds to a question from an earlier episode.<span class=""> </span><strong><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/breaking-down-your-business/id784888385" target="_blank">Listen in! »</a></strong>
<h2><img class="alignright wp-image-2779 size-full" style="float: right; margin-left: 20px;" src="http://breakingdownyourbusiness.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/nedra-Rezinas.jpg" alt="Nedra Rezinas" width="300" height="300" />Guest:</h2>
<ul>
<li><span class="">Nedra Rezinas is the founder of <a href="http://bluedeerdesigns.com/">Blue Deer Designs</a> where she helps businesses &amp; non-profits with Wordpress websites, email marketing, and other tech solutions. Find her on </span><a class="" href="https://twitter.com/bluedeerdesign" target="_blank">Twitter</a><strong>, </strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/bluedeerdesigns">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bluedeerforest/" target="_blank">Instagram</a><strong>.</strong></li>
</ul>
<h2>HAPPY FESTIVUS FROM JILL &amp; BRAD! EGG NOG FOR ALL!</h2>
<i>
<img class="alignleft wp-image-2781 " style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" src="http://breakingdownyourbusiness.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/133_Square-Podcast-Art-150x150.png" alt="Rockabye Baby | w/ Nedra Rezinas | Ep. 133" width="115" height="115" />Talk to us! Leave us a Google Voicemail so that we can read it in a future episode at </i><i>708.872.7878</i><i>. Or tweet at us using hashtag #jillnbrad. And leave us a review on iTunes — pretty please? </i><strong><i><a href="http://breakingdownyourbusiness.com/itunes" target="_blank">Over here</a>!</i></strong>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Direct download: Rockabye_Baby___w__Nedra_Rezinas___Ep._133.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

<a href="http://breakingdownyourbusiness.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/133_Horizontal-Podcast-Art.png"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-2823 size-full" src="http://breakingdownyourbusiness.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/132_Horizontal-Podcast-Art2.png" alt="Top 5 Reasons to Celebrate" width="585" height="182" /></a>


<h2>What’s In This Episode:</h2>
Ever flown Spirit Airlines? Brad and Jill waste no time getting right down to it in this episode and <em>going off</em> on the worst customer experience Jill has ever had while flying. (For a lot of you the term "Spirit Airlines" tells you most of the story already.) They also talk about the <b class="">Top 5 Reasons To Celebrate</b> in this episode and introduce the most soothing app you'll ever use.<span class=""> </span><strong><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/breaking-down-your-business/id784888385" target="_blank">Listen in! »</a></strong>
<h2>Tool:</h2>
<ul>
    <li><a href="https://www.soothe.com/">Soothe</a> :: <b>Soothe</b> takes the stress out of booking a massage. Request a 5-star massage therapist anytime, anywhere, with a few taps on your cell phone.</li>
</ul>
<h2>This Guy's A Genius:</h2>
<ul>
    <li><em><strong>Jay Carberry</strong></em> left an iTunes review that Brad reads on the air. He is awesome. (Spoiler alert: <a href="http://www.breakingdownyourbusiness.com/itunes">You can be, too</a>!)</li>
</ul>
<i>
<img class="alignleft wp-image-2785 " style="float: left; margin-right: 20px;" src="http://breakingdownyourbusiness.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/132_Square-Podcast-Art-150x150.png" alt="Celebrate Good Times | Ep. 132" width="115" height="115" />Talk to us! Leave us a Google Voicemail so that we can read it in a future episode at </i><i>708.872.7878</i><i>. Or tweet at us using hashtag #jillnbrad. And leave us a review on iTunes — pretty please? </i><strong><i><a href="http://breakingdownyourbusiness.com/itunes" target="_blank">Over here</a>!</i></strong>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Direct download: Celebrate_Good_Times___Ep._132.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Direct download: IRL_In_Real_Life___w__Aaron_Walker___Ep._131.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Direct download: Rah-Rah-Sis-Boom-Bah___w__Rajiv_Nathan__Martin_McGovern____Ep._130.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Top 5 ways to keep your momentum through the holidays

 

What’s In This Episode:

Do you take any time off over the holidays? Jill and Brad share the days they take off, why they choose to break away from biz when they do, and discuss whether it's a good idea to do so or not. They also talk about the Top 5 Ways To Keep Your Momentum Through The Holidays in this episode and they welcome Ethan Daly to the show. Listen in! »

Ethan DalyGuest:

  • Ethan Daly is the Director of Strategy and Partnerships at Sunshine Enterprises, a neighborhood organization that offers entrepreneurial training in Chicago’s struggling communities. Find him on Twitter and Facebook.

Sponsor:

  • EnMast.com is a small business owner community that offers members a supportive community and mass resource to help owners. Want a free 6-week e-course showing you the tools and templates that are offered inside the small business community? Of course you do! Learn how to get your business in shape by signing up here!

Tool:

  • Inbox Pause :: Take a break from email. Be free. Put new messages on hold, making it so they won't appear in your inbox until you're ready for them.


Dashing Through the Snow | w/ Ethan Daly | Ep. 129Talk to us! Leave us a Google Voicemail so that we can read it in a future episode at 
708.872.7878. Or tweet at us using hashtag #jillnbrad. And leave us a review on iTunes — pretty please? Over here!

 

 

 

Direct download: Dashing_Through_the_Snow___w__Ethan_Daly___Ep._129.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Top 5 moments for straight talk in business

 

What’s In This Episode:

When's the last time you met with someone in a business setting and thought, "Wow, you're such a fake!"? Were you offended by their lack of authenticity? Why? Jill and Brad talk about the ins and outs of fakes, condescending tricksters, and folks who just aren't doing this business thing correctly. Spoiler alert: They also figure out why telemarketers have such success! So, this week they share their Top 5 Moments for Straight Talk In Business in this episode and they welcome motivational guru Stephanie Owen to the show. Listen in! »

Stephanie OwenGuest:

  • Stephanie Owen is the founder of Motivational Parenting where she helps parents tackle the challenges in setting limits and clear boundaries with their children. Find her on Twitter and Facebook.

Rant:

  • Jill needs your help. If you know the answer to, "WHY, DEVELOPERS, WHY?" then please call 708.872.7878 and help her understand how coding a website permits developers to do business wildly differently than everyone else in the world. Tune in to hear why there's so much steam coming out of her ears.


Truthiness | w/ Stephanie Owen | Ep. 128Talk to us! Leave us a Google Voicemail so that we can read it in a future episode at 
708.872.7878. Or tweet at us using hashtag #jillnbrad. And leave us a review on iTunes — pretty please? Over here!

 

 

 

Direct download: Truthiness___w__Stephanie_Owen___Ep._128.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Top 5 Lessons from a Launch

What’s In This Episode:

Ever plan a launch? Have an event or opening or new something you're announcing to the world and soon? Jill and Brad talk all about their top tips to get you in shape and shout it from the rooftops at the volume that they prefer (spoiler alert: really ridiculously loud.) So tune in for their Top 5 Lessons Learned From A Launch in this episode and they welcome entrepreneur Brian Feldkamp to the show. Listen in! »

Brian FeldkampGuest:

Sponsor:

  • The Founding Moms Community - If you want to get all the hot tips and resources for building a better business, look no further. The FMC is the place to be, complete with video courses, webinars, a forum, early access to a variety of opportunities and more for the mom entrepreneur.

Thought Of The Day:

  • REI boldly announced that they're closed on Black Friday. Do you think this will harm or benefit the brand for making this move? NOT TO WORRY: Brad and Jill share their thoughts on the topic, and then some.


T-minus 10 seconds | w/ Brian Feldkamp | Ep. 127Talk to us! Leave us a Google Voicemail so that we can read it in a future episode at 
708.872.7878. Or tweet at us using hashtag #jillnbrad. And leave us a review on iTunes — pretty please? Over here!

 

Direct download: T-minus_10_seconds___w__Brian_Feldkamp___Ep._127.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Top 5 ways to make the rest of this year COUNT

 

What’s In This Episode:

Do you make goals at the beginning of each year? Have you stuck to them? Oh, yeah? How are they going? Jill talks about her miserable failures at keeping any of them, and Brad admits that he failed (at making any goasl at all.) So, the duo talks about the Top 5 Ways To Make The Rest Of This Year Count in this episode and they welcome Nic Zito to the show. Listen in! »

Nic ZitoGuest:

  • Nic Zito runs the Rev3 Innovation Center, a mixed-use business incubation center and he's also doing economic development for Dupage County in Illinois. Find him on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Tool:

  • Priime :: It's a powerful new photo editor for iPhones. Jill uses it regularly now and raves about it! Try it out.


Count the days | w/ Nic Zito | Ep. 126Talk to us! Leave us a Google Voicemail so that we can read it in a future episode at 
708.872.7878. Or tweet at us using hashtag #jillnbrad. And leave us a review on iTunes — pretty please? Over here!

 

 

 

Direct download: Count_the_days___w__Nic_Zito___Ep._126.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Top 5 ways to manage a client's emergency without creating your own

 

What’s In This Episode:

Ever have clients call you with emergencies that aren't really emergencies? What do you do about it? Our previous guest, Oz du Soleil, asked us to talk about what small business owners can do to make sure that their day is not completely sucked up by one client's perceived emergency. Jill and Brad share great tips and tricks for making sure this doesn't happen to you ever again. Therefore thus hence, in this week's episode they go through their Top 5 Ways To Manage A Client's Emergency Without Creating Your Own and they welcome the ever-so-helpful Terry L. Green to the show. Listen in! »

Terry GreenGuest:

  • Terry Green is the founder of BizEase Support Solutions, a company of online support specialists providing seamless online marketing implementation solutions to speakers & business coaches. Find her on Twitter and Facebook.

Tool:

  • Assistant.to, Sunrise, and Ask Clara are all scheduling apps that help Brad to schedule his business. Jill can't stand any of them. Listen in to hear Jill and Brad duke it out about calendaring automagically...or not!


Had this been an actual emergency... | w/ Terry L. Green | Ep. 125Talk to us! Leave us a Google Voicemail so that we can read it in a future episode at 
708.872.7878. Or tweet at us using hashtag #jillnbrad. And leave us a review on iTunes — pretty please? Over here!

 

Direct download: Had_this_been_an_actual_emergency...___w__Terry_L._Green___Ep._125.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

5 Things to do when you need new business now!

 

What’s In This Episode:

Ever get worried that you have no new business coming in? Not unlike Jill and Brad, do you feel like this every single day? The co-hosts walk through what their concerns are, what it does to them (do you go to the homeless place, too?) and then turn it around and talk about how helpful it can be, too. They also talk about the Top 5 Things To Do When You Need New Business Now! in this episode and they welcome intuitive brainiac Ling Wong to the show. Listen in! »

Ling WongGuest:

  • Ling Wong is an intuitive braniac who helps you distill your big ideas into one cohesive message, find the words that sell and design a plan to do what matters. Find her on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest.

Sponsor:

  • unQuiet Life Podcast - Brad appeared last week on episode # 15 of the unQuiet Life podcast. Our producer, Lightning, co-hosts this podcast about developing a quiet spiritual life in a loud outer world. Brad stopped by to share some thoughts on how to stay connected to God and be your best self during the work day.

Tool:

  • PrimeNow :: Amazon's newest app that lets you order stuff you need and it's delivered free in under two hours. Jill loves it. Try it. (Make sure to check and see if they're up and running in your area, too.)


the Now Episode | w/ Ling Wong | Ep. 124Talk to us! Leave us a Google Voicemail so that we can read it in a future episode at 
708.872.7878. Or tweet at us using hashtag #jillnbrad. And leave us a review on iTunes — pretty please? Over here!

 

 

 

Direct download: the_Now_Episode___w__Ling_Wong___Ep._124.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Top 5 ways to make your next speaking gig ROCK!

 

What’s In This Episode:

Are there any speakers that you respect? What makes them great, and what have you learned from them? Jill talks about her love of TED talks and the fascinating Sally Hogshead while Brad shares his reverence for Seth Godin and what makes a great speaker in general. Oh, you aren't doing any public speaking for your business? Time to start considering it! Brad & Jill also talk about the Top 5 Ways To Make Your Next Speaking Gig Rock in this episode and they welcome experiential event guru Arthur Zards to the show. Listen in! »

Arthur ZardsGuest:

Turn The Tables:

  • Brad needs your help. The podcast has a lot of you beautiful listeners already hearing the words that come up...but it's not enough! How do you end up recommending podcasts to friends? How do you hear about new podcasts? Will you let Brad know how else he and Jill can get the word out? Email brad<at>breakingdownyourbusiness.com and let him know how you hear about podcasts!

Top 5 ways to make your next speaking gig ROCK! | w/ Arthur Zards | Ep 123Talk to us! Leave us a Google Voicemail so that we can read it in a future episode at 708.872.7878. Or tweet at us using hashtag #jillnbrad. And leave us a review on iTunes — pretty please? Over here!

 

Direct download: Take_the_Stage____w__Arthur_Zards___Ep._123.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Top 5 things to say in your next new business meeting

 

What’s In This Episode:

Are there certain business phrases that get people to pay attention to what you're saying? When you say them, do more people lean in to what you're talking about? Brad discusses what he says to gain credibility with his clients and Jill hones in on what makes her Founding Moms members tick. They also talk about the Top 5 Things To Say In Your Next New Business Meeting in this episode and they welcome parent entrepreneur James Oliver, Jr., to the show. Listen in! »

James Oliver, Jr.Guest:

  • James Oliver, Jr., is the founder of WeMontage, a site that lets you easily transforms your memorable and inspiring images into removable photo wallpaper. Keep up with him on TrepLifeDad, where he blogs feverishly all about parent entrepreneurship. Find him on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.

Rant:

  • Jill goes off on people -- all the people -- about getting perspective when it said people are offended if she doesn't get back to them instantaneously. Tune in to hear the steam coming out of her ears.

Ka-Ching! | w/ James Oliver, Jr. | Ep. 122Talk to us! Leave us a Google Voicemail so that we can read it in a future episode at 708.872.7878. Or tweet at us using hashtag #jillnbrad. And leave us a review on iTunes — pretty please? Over here!

Direct download: Ka-Ching___w__James_Oliver_Jr.___Ep._122.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Direct download: Unicorns___w__Ashley_Van_Nevel___Ep._121.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Top 5 Ways to Make Business Development a Daily Habit

 

What’s In This Episode:

What things do you prioritize every single day? Are there certain things you do each and every day without fail? Jill likes to eat. Brad likes to shower. The basics, people. If you prioritize breathing, checking your email or scheduling your schedule, this episode is for you. The very quiet co-hosts share their Top 5 Ways To Make Business Development A Daily Habit in this episode and they welcome business coach Daryl Urbanski to the show. Listen in! »

Daryl UrbanskiGuest:

Sponsor:

  • EnMast.com is the small business owner community you want to belong to. And get this: Wanna know how to create a daily habit out of your business development? If you want to learn how to build a daily habit of doing business development for your business so that you can always have work, charge the rates you deserve, and get the clients you like to work with, head here.

Rant:

  • Jill is REALLY ANNOYED about the end of a lot of her business meetings. You know that famous question, "So, how can I help you?" Don't ever say that to her. EVER. Tune in to hear why...


Take Two and Call Me In the MorningTalk to us! Leave us a Google Voicemail so that we can read it in a future episode at 
708.872.7878. Or tweet at us using hashtag #jillnbrad. And leave us a review on iTunes — pretty please? Over here!

 

Direct download: Take_Two_and_Call_Me_In_the_Morning___w__Daryl_Urbanski___Ep._120.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Top 5 Ways to Get People to Return Your Phone Calls or Emails

What’s In This Episode:

What emails or phone calls do you always respond to? What about the ones you never reply to? Jill and Brad spend some time hashing out what they reply to and why -- and it's no secret that Jill never responds to Brad unless they're recording this podcast. Check out their checklists and compare and contrast your own. This week, they talk about the Top 5 Ways To Return Your Phone Calls Or Emails in this episode and they welcome CorpNet's Nellie Akalp to the show. Listen in! »

Nellie AkalpGuest:

  • Nellie Akalp is the founder of CorpNet, where she helps start, grow and maintain businesses in all 50 States and specializes in forming Corporations & LLC's. Find her on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.

Sponsor:

  • EnMast.com is the small business owner community you want to belong to. And get this: Wanna know how to create a daily habit out of your business development? If you want to learn how to build a daily habit of doing business development for your business so that you can always have work, charge the rates you deserve, and get the clients you like to work with, head here.

Tool:

  • Highrise :: It's a simple secret weapon to track tasks, contacts, and notes. Put your contacts in, check out the history of your communication with them all, and manage all of your work in one place. Brad calls it a "CRM for the rest of us" -- try it out and let him know what you think.


Reply AllTalk to us! Leave us a Google Voicemail so that we can read it in a future episode at 
708.872.7878. Or tweet at us using hashtag #jillnbrad. And leave us a review on iTunes — pretty please? Over here!

 

Direct download: Reply_All___w__Nellie_Akalp___Ep._119.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Top 5 ways to get back in the swing (after summer)

What’s In This Episode:

Do you have a hard time getting back into the swing of things after a long break, like a great summer vacation? Jill and Brad sure do. They talk about their summer shenanigans -- even unplugging from electronics for 10 full days -- and how hard a time they've had getting back into it. But, not to worry: They shout all about their top tips and tricks for finding their work groove all over again. It's no surprise, then, that this week they discuss the Top 5 Ways To Get Back In The Swing (After Summer) in this episode and they welcome psychological illusionist David Ranalli to the show. Listen in! »

David RanalliGuest:

  • David Ranalli is a full-time professional magician, sleight of hand artist, and psychological illusionist based in Chicago & Indianapolis. Using simple, everyday objects and a keen knowledge of human behavior, David performs a full-scale show of wonder that is packed full of laughs and audience participation. Find him on Twitter, YouTube and Instagram.

Sponsor:

  • When you need to run payroll, trust SurePayroll.com to get it done. SurePayroll.com has been dedicated to supporting US small businesses since 2000 and their award-winning, top-rated service makes it easy because they automatically file and pay federal, state and local payroll taxes online, every time. Go to BreakingDownYourBusiness.com/SurePayroll today for a free, personalized price quote. Or give them a call at 866-996-8524 .

Tool:

  • Be My Eyes :: It's an iPhone app that lets blind people contact a network of sighted volunteers for help with live video chat.


Back to workTalk to us! Leave us a Google Voicemail so that we can read it in a future episode at 
708.872.7878. Or tweet at us using hashtag #jillnbrad. And leave us a review on iTunes — pretty please? Over here!

 

Direct download: Back_to_work___w__David_Ranalli___Ep._118.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

 

What’s In This Episode:

Have you been needing a little push lately? Would you like to hear a few reasons about why you should just go for it? If so, Jill and Brad will give you the Top 5 Reasons To Go For It in this episode. Also, they introduce author Barry Friedman, who tells us about the reason he gave up sugar and much more, to the show. Listen in! »

Barry FriedmanGuest:

  • Barry Friedman is an author who shares his journey about life without sugar. If you would like to start a similar challenge, you can go to his site, 30DaysSugarFree.comFind him on TwitterFacebook and Linkedin.

Tool:

  • Brad has an idea about what to do with all the business cards that people give to you. Brad suggests that you use a social media tool called custom audiences that allows you to upload an email list, that consists of the people you've met, and market to just those people.


Top 5 reasons to GO FOR ITTalk to us! Leave us a Google Voicemail so that we can read it in a future episode at 
708.872.7878. Or tweet at us using hashtag #jillnbrad. And leave us a review on iTunes — pretty please? Over here!

 

Direct download: Go_for_it___w__Barry_Friedman___Ep._117.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

 

What’s In This Episode:

Have you ever felt like you weren't treating your team quite right? Or maybe you think that you could do a better job at showing your team more appreciation? Jill and Brad talk about how you can show your team some gratitude. For these tips, listen to the Top 5 Ways To Treat Your Team Right in this episode after they welcome filmmaker David Bradburn to the show. Listen in! »


Guest:

  • David Bradburn is a filmmaker/producer who runs his own production company, Fork the Man Productions. Find him on Facebook and Linkedin .

Sponsor:

  • SurePayroll  - It's a way for business owners to have their payroll at their fingertips. Along with payroll, they offer services that manage 401(k) plans, health insurance, workers' compensation, employee screening and more. It's promised to be easy, convenient and accurate at a price that small business owners can afford.

Rant:

  • Jill has found a Ted Talk from Monica Lewinsky called "The Price Of Shame" and it opened her eyes to another side of the story, which sheds a new light on Ms. Lewinsky.

Top 5 ways to treat your team rightTalk to us! Leave us a Google Voicemail so that we can read it in a future episode at 708.872.7878. Or tweet at us using hashtag #jillnbrad. And leave us a review on iTunes — pretty please? Over here!

 

Direct download: Treat_em_right___w__David_Bradburn___Ep._116.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

 

What’s In This Episode:

Do you shoot videos frequently? Have you realized that your videos are missing something? Jill and Brad discuss ways for you to make your videos look as professional and as aesthetically pleasing as possible with the Top 5 Things To Make Your Video Awesome. Also, tune in as they welcome Marcel Krawczyk, creator of a new web app that needs help prioritizing his teams ideas.  Listen in! »


Guest:

  • Marcel Krawczyk is one of the founders of ShareASpot, which aims to help find parking in Chicago. Find him on Twitter and Linkedin.

Rant:

  • Brad has found that his family uses an obsessively large amount  of water bottles and he wishes that he could just go back to the old days where the use of canteens was preferred.


Top 5 things you need to make great videosTalk to us! Leave us a Google Voicemail so that we can read it in a future episode at 
708.872.7878. Or tweet at us using hashtag #jillnbrad. And leave us a review on iTunes — pretty please? Over here!

 

Direct download: Lights_Camera_Action___w__Marcel_Krawczyk___Ep._115.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

What’s In This Episode:

Are you going on vacation soon? If so, are you sure that you're going to enjoy it to the fullest? If not, tune in with Jill and Brad as they discuss the Top 5 Things You Need To Do On Vacation. Also, learn about a few ways to boost your company's presence in the community along with ways to boost your business's morale as they introduce experienced businessman Kevin Masi. Listen in! » 


Guest:

  • Kevin Masi is a digital marketer who has been doing branding and digital work in Chicago for 23 years! Find him on Twitter and Google+.

Tool:


Top 5 things you need to do on your summer vacationTalk to us! Leave us a Google Voicemail so that we can read it in a future episode at 
708.872.7878. Or tweet at us using hashtag #jillnbrad. And leave us a review on iTunes — pretty please? Over here!

 

Direct download: Peace_out_man___w__Kevin_Masi___Ep._114.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Direct download: Stay_away_from_my_inbox___w__Erica_Grigg___Ep._113.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

What’s In This Episode:

Has it ever hit you that what you don’t know outweighs the things that you do know? Would you like to know how to fix that? Jill and Brad will give you some tips on the many resources available as they discuss the Top 5 Things You Need to Learn Now and where to learn them. Also, they talk with Oz du Soliel, a Microsoft Excel wizard about how to better manage time. Listen in! »

Guest:

  • Oz du Soliel is a Microsoft Excel MVP who uses his knowledge of the program in order to build databases on pretty much anything by his use of scraping. Find him on Twitter, Facebook and Youtube.

Sponsor:

  • The Founding Moms Community: It's the place to be! It offers many video courses, forums, entrepreneurial opportunities, guidance and so many more things to do. Come join this community and open up the door to many different opportunities.

Rant:

Jill has found the power in using apps such as Operator and Fancy Hands in order to get her work complete, but she's not quite sure if this is getting her work done or adding more along the way.

Tools:


Talk to us! Leave us a Google Voicemail so that we can read it in a future episode at 
708.872.7878. Or tweet at us using hashtag #jillnbrad. And leave us a review on iTunes — pretty please? Over here!

Direct download: Get_Smart___w__Oz_du_Soleil___Ep._112.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

How do you keep up with all of the new technological thingies in this day and age? Brad and Jill debate whether there are people who are early adopters and those who are not, or whether everyone can learn ways to stay on top of the newest apps and gadgets that come out. They also talk about the Top 5 Ways To Keep Up With New Technology in this episode and welcome coach Carol Soares to the show. Listen in! »

Guest:

Tool:

  • Zapier :: It makes your web apps talk to each other. It's awesome. Both Jill and Brad highly recommend it.


Talk to us! Leave us a Google Voicemail so that we can read it in a future episode at 
708.872.7878. Or tweet at us using hashtag #jillnbrad. And leave us a review on iTunes — pretty please? Over here!

 

Direct download: Download_this___w__Carol_Soares___Ep._111.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

See many deadbeats in your work day? Alllllllll those people who make it challenging for you to get paid -- the folks who don't pay on time, who don't pay at all -- are a pain, and that's an understatement. Brad and Jill share their thoughts on the epidemic that hits small businesses regularly and what they've experienced. They also talk about the Top 5 Things To Do When Money Gets Short in this episode and they welcome product brainstormer and mother of Jill, Kathy Katona, to the show. Listen in! »

Guest:

  • Kathy Katona is a professional brainstormer who's been coming up with great product ideas since Jill was born. She's also Jill's mom. Find her avoiding Twitter, shrugging at Facebook, and having no idea about what Google+ is. 

Sponsor:

  • SurePayroll is a small business owner community that offers members a supportive community and mass resource to help owners. Like getting paid? When you need to run payroll, trust SurePayroll.com to get it done. SurePayroll.com has been dedicated to supporting US small businesses since 2000 and their award-winning, top-rated service makes it easy because they automatically file and pay federal, state and local payroll taxes online, every time. Go to BreakingDownYourBusiness.com/SurePayroll today for a free, personalized price quote. Or give them a call at 866-996-8524.

Tool:

  • FancyHands :: It's a team of assistants ready to work for you right now via an app on your phone. Their assistants are based in the US, but work for clients worldwide. Get 50% off your 1st month, rates start at $29.99 for 5 tasks.


Talk to us! Leave us a Google Voicemail so that we can read it in a future episode at 
708.872.7878. Or tweet at us using hashtag #jillnbrad. And leave us a review on iTunes — pretty please? Over here!

Direct download: Out_of_cash___w__Kathy_Katona___Ep._110.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 11:00am CDT

Do you like moving? Love when major changes happen in your life while you’re running your business? Brad thinks it’s the worst. Jill loves it. So you can imagine the banter that ensues.  They also talk about the Top 5 Ways To Deal With Simultaneous Work And Life Chaos in this episode and they welcome Mary Dombrowski to the show. Listen in! »

 

Guest:

  • Mary Dombrowski helps business owners realize higher levels of consistent cash flow by improving their business development efforts and their cash flow. Find her on LinkedIn.

 

Sponsor:

  • The FMC – The Founding Moms Community is the place to be for mom entrepreneurs who want to build better businesses. With value-packed video courses, an exclusive members-only forum, early access to entrepreneurial opportunities, personalized guidance and so many virtual high-fives, join the FMC waiting list to get in on the action.

 

Turn The Tables:

 

  • Brad needs your help. He loves taking notes electronically. But he’s always avoided taking notes on a laptop because he feels that the laptop screen is a barrier between him and the person he’s talking to…so it is acceptable now to take notes on a computer, or is it still considered rude? Call him. Tell him. (708) 872-7878.

 

Talk to us! Leave us a Google Voicemail so that we can read it in a future episode at 708.872.7878. Or tweet at us using hashtag #jillnbrad. And leave us a review on iTunes — pretty please? Over here!

Direct download: Shake_it_up___w__Mary_Dombrowski___Ep._109.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

When did you realize that you’re not charging enough? Are you realizing it right now? Jill and Brad share what they’ve done, how they handle pricing increases, and what they do to keep up with the changes (and the Joneses’.) They also talk about the Top 5 Signs You Are Not Charging Enough in this episode  and they welcome Go! Go! Go! Fundraising’s Angie McGuire to the show. Stay tuned for Jill’s crazy rant, too. Listen in! »

Guest:

Angie Maguire is part of Go! Go! Go! Fundraising, an organization that helps folks fundraise by providing fans with a healthy product that fits today’s fast paced lifestyle. Find her on Facebook and Twitter and Instagram.

Rant:

Jill can’t stand automated scheduling systems. Brad is pretty sure she’s the only one — but catch her riffing on booking meetings throughout her day.


Talk to us! Leave us a Google Voicemail so that we can read it in a future episode at 
708.872.7878. Or tweet at us using hashtag #jillnbrad. And leave us a review on iTunes — pretty please? Over here!

Direct download: Are_you_charging_enough____w__Angie_Maguire___Ep._108.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Were you ever an intern? What kind of experiences filled out your professional life, or sucked the life right out of you? Jill recounts the olden days when interned at modeling agencies, software companies, and restaurant guide giant Zagat Survey (it’s pronounced “za-GAT” like “the CAT.”) and what life was like before the Internet.They also talk about the Top 5 Lessons From Creating An Internship Program (with Greg Jaffe!) in this episode and they welcome DigitalGroundUp’s Reva Minkoff to the show. Stay tuned for Brad’s latest rant, too! Listen in! »

Guest:

Reva Minkoff is the founder of DigitalGroundUp, an interactive technology platform that helps its users learn digital marketing through its interactive software. Find her on Facebook and Twitter.

Rant:

Brad has a few things to say about people who don’t reply to emails. Don’t miss the rage that ensues…


Talk to us! Leave us a Google Voicemail so that we can read it in a future episode at 
708.872.7878. Or tweet at us using hashtag #jillnbrad. And leave us a review on iTunes — pretty please? Over here!

Direct download: Intern_get_me_some_coffee___w__Reva_Minkoff___Ep._107.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

What do you look for when you go to a networking event? Do the type of people attending matter more, or do you prefer to focus on what speakers will be presenting? If this entire topic makes you cringe, do you value networking events for your business at all? If for nothing else, what about the free pizza that shows up at every single networking event Jill has ever been to?  Jill and Brad cover the best parts about networking events and what you should look for in a group when they go over the Top 5 Things To Look For In A Networking Group in this episode. They also welcome Bliss Beyond Naptime’s Kathy Stowell to the show. Listen in! »

Guest:

Tool:

  • Periscope :: Explore the world through someone else’s eyes. You can video livestream anything you’re doing at any moment in time and people can watch you — and interact by chatting with you — in realtime. You can also watch other people do the same thing around the world!


Talk to us! Leave us a Google Voicemail so that we can read it in a future episode at 
708.872.7878. Or tweet at us using hashtag #jillnbrad. And leave us a review on iTunes — pretty please? Over here!

Direct download: Find_your_tribe___Kathy_Stowell___Ep_106.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

How do you stay sane in a busy workday? There’s a lot that goes on in a day, let alone the things that happen when you run a freaking company. Are there routines you rely on? Ways that help you breathe better? Jill and Brad talk about how they make things a lot easier with the goal of keeping their sanity by covering the Top 5 Ways To Stay Sane In A Busy Workday in this episode. They also welcome Tend’s tech tinkerer Ryan Evans to the show. Listen in! »

Guest:

  • Ryan Evans is the founder of Tend, a platform that helps you to easily figure out what’s driving customers to your website. Find him on Twitter and LinkedIn.

 

Turn The Tables:

  • Brad needs your help in this episode. He wants to attract clients who want to get more done without using terminology like “business therapist.” How can he talk about it — what words can he use — to offer his services in a way that gets his message across? Call in and help! (708) 872-7878.


Talk to us! Leave us a Google Voicemail so that we can read it in a future episode at 
708.872.7878. Or tweet at us using hashtag #jillnbrad. And leave us a review on iTunes — pretty please? Over here!

Direct download: Stop_the_insanity___w__Ryan_Evans___Ep_105.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Brad shares his top 5 hiring mistakes that employers make.

Direct download: I_know_a_guy_who_could_do_that...___Mike_Michalowicz___Ep_104.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

In this episode, Brad and Jill talk about how raising kids is like building a business.

Direct download: Incorporate_your_family___Melissa_Lagowski___Ep_103.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Brad and Jill share their tricks for getting more prospects.

Direct download: Bring_in_the_clients___Sarah_Shaw___Ep_102.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Jill shares her top 5 mistakes people make when working with a graphic designer.

Direct download: Design_it_right____Derek_Eder___Ep_101.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Jill and Brad made it. They've talked to over 200 business owners over the lifetime of the podcast. They've yelled at each other a lot. They've shouted at you a lot. And their extraordinary producer, Lightning Atkinson, recounts several great moments for us all. You'll laugh. You'll cry. And then you should pay Jill and Brad 5% of whatever you make because they said so.

Direct download: Blue_Plate_Special__Our_100th_Episode.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Jill and Brad discuss the top 5 things you should not be doing...(but probably are).

Direct download: You_need_to_STOP_IT___John_Luke___Ep_99.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

In today's show, Jill and Brad talk about the top 5 emails you should never send.

Direct download: Dont_press_send...___Lisa_Lehmann___Ep_98.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Brad and Jill discuss 5 things you should NOT do for your own business.

Direct download: Help_I_need_somebody___Guest__Michael_Luchies___Ep._97.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Jill and Brad give their five reasons they'll subscribe to your newsletter...and 5 reasons they'll unsubscribe.

Direct download: Does_your_newsletter_suck____Guest__Tanner_Agar___Ep._96.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

This week, Jill and Brad share the best reasons to go to a conference.

Direct download: Go_to_a_conference___Guest__Jennifer_Berson___Ep._95.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Brad and Jill share their top 5 favorite methods to keep trusting their guts. Plus Megan Strand stops by to talk podcasting.

Direct download: Gary_the_Gut_speaks___Guest__Megan_Strand___Ep._94.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Jill and Brad share their favorite reasons to be transparent (even in business).

Direct download: To_tell_the_truth.___Guest__Scott_Hansen___Ep._93.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Jill and Brad share everything you need to know about crowdfunding.

Direct download: Show_me_the_MONEY___Guest__Thomas_Iwema___Ep._92.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

This week Jill and Brad talk about some important people to meet on your small business journey.

Direct download: Oh_the_people_youll_meet___Guest__Lakshmi_Jayanthi___Ep._91.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Brad and Jill dish on how their kids make their businesses better. Plus Sean Shafik talks about tea, wine and raising capital.

Direct download: Parents_get_more_done___Guest__Sean_Shafik___Ep._90.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Brad and Jill unpack the Top 5 ugly truths about entrepreneurship, plus Elizabeth Ames talks about Autism Awareness month.

Direct download: You_cant_HANDLE_the_truth___Guest__Elizabeth_Ames___Ep._89.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Ever have one of those days where you're fired up? Are they all of the days as it is in the life and work of Brad Farris? It's easy for any business owner to look around and think that everyone else running a company is have a great time. That nothing ever goes wrong for the other guy. But there's oh so much that can happen in a workday that can wreak havoc on your morale, your energy and your bottom line. So, in this episode Brad and Jill talk about the Top 5 Things That Get Them Fired Up to shout a whole lot about it and they welcome Marriage Material's Bobby Leach to the show

Direct download: Breaking_Down_Your_Business_Ep._88.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Are you doing too much in your business? Have you started too many things and now you're behind on most of them? Jill and Brad talk about all the power, the control and the flexibility that small business owners enjoy and how that can sometimes prevent you from seeing that focus is elusive but pretty darn important. And that doing too many things can actually take that power, control and flexibility away from you. They also talk about the Top 5 Reasons To Say No in this episode and they welcome writer Kaleigh Moore to the show. Listen in! »

Direct download: Breaking_Down_Your_Business_Ep._87.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Do you like to go to meetings? Is it part of your job? (Should it be?) Jill and Brad chat about what makes meetings great, when they should be considered a part of your business, and what it's like for some introverts to spend their days face-to-face with other people. They also talk about the Top 5 Ways To Make Your Meetings Better in this episode and they welcome Desk Inc.'s Jim Ford to the show. Listen in! »

Direct download: Breaking_Down_Your_Business_Ep._86.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

How do you get more eyeballs on what you're creating in your business? What strategies to you employ to attract more attention to all of the stuff you've worked so hard on? Jill and Brad talk about the ways in which they work the marketing magic (read: real and easy strategies) to make sure that more customers and clients come marching their way. You're looking to do the same thing, no doubt. This episode's a must-listen! And the main course? The Top 5 Ways To Get More Eyeballs On Anything along with superstar guest and certified sex therapist Lisa Katona. Listen in! »

Direct download: Breaking_Down_Your_Business_Ep._85.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Did you know that the thing correlating most highly to entrepreneurial success is having parents who were entrepreneurs? Did you know Diana Ross is still alive? Mysteries like that and more are revealed in this excruciatingly loud episode. Jill and Brad share about their entrepreneurial influences and how you probably have them, too. They also talk about the Top 5 Things Your Kids Are Learning From Your Business in this episode and they welcome NextKids' founder Diana Rothschild to the show. Listen in! »

Direct download: Breaking_Down_Your_Business_Ep._84.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Ever visit a website that made no sense? Do you try to find the one thing that you're there to do but you can't locate the button or icon? Ever go to most sites and think, "Wow, this is a terrible website." Jill and Brad talk about how infuriated they are by most business websites -- even their own. If you think your site is fine, this episode is a must-listen. For serious. They also talk about the Top 5 Ways Your Website Sucks (And How To Fix It) in this episode and they welcome marketing consultant Michelle Koclanis to the show. Listen in! »

Direct download: Breaking_Down_Your_Business_Ep._83.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Do you ever want to give up? Hopelessly behind on your annual goals or can't figure out how to make things juuuuust right? There's hope. (Although if Jill and Brad inspire that in you, take a second look at yourself. It's doctor recommended.) They talk about how they energize and reenergize themselves and also talk about the Top 5 Reasons To Keep Going in this episode. They welcome Startup Institute's Brent Williams in this episode and they hear from past guest Erika Kerekes to see where she is with her business. Listen in! »

Direct download: Breaking_Down_Your_Business_Ep._82.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Ready to take St. Patrick’s Day by storm? (Or is it the other way around? Be honest.) Speaking of which, what’s the most embarrassing moment you’ve had in business to date? Jill and Brad have so many embarrassments that they flip the tables and want you to call in and tell them about yours. They also talk about the Top 5 Mistakes You Didn’t Know You Were Making in this episode and they welcome the inspiring Stacia Pierce to the show. Listen in! »

Direct download: Breaking_Down_Your_Business_Ep._81.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Has cash flow always been smooth sailing for you? Ever go through a period of time in your business where cash flow is actually a problem? It affects us all. Jill and Brad talk about the chess game that is cash flow, how they're obsessed with numbers after years of running a small business, and why dealing with this draining thing is pretty important and helps you grow as a business person. They also talk about the Top 5 Ways To Get Deadbeats To Pay Up in this episode and they welcome Daily Java's Mike Bacille to the show. Listen in! »

Direct download: Breaking_Down_Your_Business_Ep._80.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

What do you think when you see yourself in a video? Do you cringe? Do you love watching yourself? Jill and Brad can't stand it but talk about why it's so important for you. (Spoiler alert: They actually agree on the fact that having a video editor makes it a lot easier to swallow.) They also talk about the Top 5 Reasons To Shoot A Video in this episode and they welcome Modern Femme's Katy Blevins to the show. Listen in! »

Direct download: Breaking_Down_Your_Business_Ep._79.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

How many times have you been fired? If there's any indication that this episode is a hoot and a half, just know that Brad has been fired from the same company twice and Jill has fired her own self before when performing poorly at her job. Don't miss out on this hilarity. Jill and Brad also talk about the Top 5 Lessons for Firing People in this episode and they welcome Orange Theory Fitness's Derek Hearne to the show -- along with a very helpful tool. Listen in! »

Direct download: Breaking_Down_Your_Business_Ep._78.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Are there newsletters that you actually look forward to getting? If it suddenly stopped hitting your inbox, would you go looking for it or try to resubscribe? From Trendwatching to Product Hunt to Verne Harnish, Jill and Brad discuss the curators of great email newsletters. They also read Steve Daar's amazing iTunes review (you can leave one too! You can leave one too!). They also talk about the Top 5 Reasons You Need To Do Email Marketing in this episode and they welcome Tigress Ventures' Ita Ekpoudoum to the show. Oh, and TeamPete is back!! YEAH! Listen in! »

Direct download: Breaking_Down_Your_Business_Ep._77.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Is there a brand or person whose brand lights you on fire? Jill and Brad talk about Mazda, Katy Perry, and whether you like either brand or not, you'll be surprised to hear that your co-hosts have opinions about both of them. Lots of opinions. There's a brilliant iTunes review by Lisa Lehman read in a brilliantly bad accent by Jill and a recap by the glorious Andy Crestodina. They also talk about the Top 5 Ways To Improve Your Branding in this episode and they welcome skeeball master Mike Fraser to the show. Listen in! »

Direct download: Breaking_Down_Your_Business_Ep._76_1.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Do you remember your first cell phone? How large and unwieldy was it, and more importantly: Do you miss it? What about answering machines: Did you have one?  Brad and Jill walk down memory lane rehashing what life was like with very public voicemails and whether they appreciate the privacy of leaving someone a voice message now as opposed to yesteryear. They also talk about the Top 5 Reasons To Never Leave A Voicemail Again in this episode and they welcome Inside Edge PR’s Matt Baron to the show.  Listen in! »

Direct download: Breaking_Down_Your_Business_Ep._75.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

What do you do — away from work — to get your creative juices flowing? How do you dig yourself out of that ditch of monotony? Jill showers. Brad communes with leaves. They talk about their creative juices and juicing their creativity and hope that you call in to share what you do to relieve that work stress and potentially do better at work overall. They also talk about the Top 5 People To Learn From in this episode and they welcome Boot Rescue’s Tracy Sloga to the show. Listen in! »

Direct download: Breaking_Down_Your_Business_Ep._74.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

What's something creative that you do away from work? If you love to cook, play music or go for a run, does it make you more creative when you're back to work? Jill and Brad talk about what they love to do outside of their work lives and Jill takes a moment getting quite upset after learning that Brad loves to cook and has never cooked for her. They also talk about the Top 5 Things That Boost Your Creative Output in this episode and they welcome Brad's sister (!!) Cheryl Moore to the show. Listen in! »

Direct download: Breaking_Down_Your_Business_Ep._73.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:30am CDT

Have you had a great customer experience lately? Ever experience a personalized thank you note, social media shout-out or extra mile move that a business has done for you? Let's hope you've thought about doing the same for your customers and clients. Jill and Brad think about it all the time (spoiler alert: This is an overstatement.) They also talk about the Top 5 Ways To Show Your Customers Some Love in this episode and they welcome social media diva Marisa Lisse to the show. Oh! And Michelle Humphrey is back to talk about the birth of her Twitter existence. Listen in! »

Direct download: Breaking_Down_Your_Business_Ep._72.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:30am CDT

Are you familiar with the Google+ stuff? Do you use it to grow your business? Jill has no idea how to do this so Brad educates her -- and the rest of us -- about how you can dive into Google+'s bounty of communities to reach more folks and market your business better. They talk about the Top 5 Google+ Communities For Business Owners in this episode and they welcome junk master Danny Goldberg to the show. Oh, and Team Pete is back. Duh. Listen in! »

Direct download: Breaking_Down_Your_Business_Ep._71.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Do you work in different places? Do you like to change it up to get the brainwaves moving in a different direction? Jill and Brad sure do. They banter about where they like to work and why certain places are better than others. (You'll have to listen to get a glimpse of their favorite spots!) They also talk about the Top 5 Places To Work That Are Not Your Office in this episode and they welcome publicity maven Jenny Shepherd to the show. Listen in! »

Direct download: Breaking_Down_Your_Business_Ep._70.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Has anyone ever called you with an opportunity that you needed right at that moment? Ever have the experience where someone else's outreach worked? You know you have. Brad and Jill talk all about how following up with leads really does work -- and of course, they shout a lot. They also talk about the Top 5 Ways To Warm Up Your Leads in this episode, they welcome Sales Drummer Tony Lenhart to the show, and Team Pete is back for more goodness. Listen in! »

Direct download: Breaking_Down_Your_Business_Ep._69.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:30am CDT

What's a great idea that you've heard about recently? Anything been blowing your mind lately? Jill and Brad dish all about WBEZ's podcast sensation, Serial, and how it's been such a success from a marketing perspective. They're pretty stoked that a lot more people are listening to podcasts and they recognize that you are way beyond the curve -- you're listening to this one! They also talk about the Top 5 Ways To Get Attention For Your Great Idea and they welcome Buzzy inventor and Shark Tank star's Amy Baxter to the show. Listen in! »

Direct download: Breaking_Down_Your_Business_Ep._68.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Do you know anything about LinkedIn? Jill doesn't either. She and Brad discuss how sad her life is because she barely knows how to use it and needs a lot of help to understand why on earth she should be linking up with other people. In this magical episode, Brad talks to Jill -- and the rest of us -- about his tip top tips for taking advantage of the social media outlet for your biz in his Top 5 Ways To Use LinkedIn To Grow Your Business. And they welcome business coach Michelle Humphrey to the show to introduce her to...wait for it...Twitter! Listen in! » 

Direct download: Breaking_Down_Your_Business_Ep._67.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

When you started your business, did people give you “helpful advice” that were a pack of lies? Did you hear all kinds of tales you believed that turned out to be quite the opposite of what you thought? Slightly misguided at times? Jill and Brad have had that happen to them, oh, 420,593,066 times. They talk about what they heard, what they assumed and what’s really happened in their businesses. They also talk about the Top 5 Small Business Truths in this episode and they welcome Decision Point’s Johanna Roach to the show and IT’S TEAM PETE AGAIN! YEAH!! Listen in! »

Direct download: Breaking_Down_Your_Business_Ep._66.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Do you think that feelings have a place in business? How do you feel about that? It’s the eternal debate — business is about making money and it’s a place devoid of all emotion…unless you’re aware that it’s a bit hard to separate emotion from your business when people have to work with other people. Brad brings up the fact that he’s given up a lot of himself to his clients and his business, and Jill dishes further on whether paying attention to your feelings is make-or-break for growing your company. They also talk about the Top 5 Ways To Use Feelings In Business in this episode and they welcome The Take app’s Ty Cooper to the show. Listen in! »

Direct download: Breaking_Down_Your_Business_Ep._65.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

What are your go-to interview questions for folks you hire? Whether they’re employees, freelancers or interns, do you ask the tough questions? Because Jill does not. And Brad thinks that this is a huge problem. Jill thinks lengthy interviews are a waste of time, Brad thinks they are imperative to running a better business. Who wins? Tune in to find out. They also talk about the Top 5 Ways To Hire The People You Need To Succeed in this episode and they welcome former TV host, business and success coach Monique Caradine to the show. Listen in! »

Direct download: Breaking_Down_Your_Business_Ep._64.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

What would make you more successful but you’re busy resisting or rejecting them? Do you need to get better at accounting? Perhaps you need to slow down how you do what you do - or speed it up? Hire slower or fire faster? Exercise more? Jill and Brad banter about the things they need to change but have a hard time changing, and you know that at least 2 of the things they mention are probably things you need to change, too. They also talk about the Top 5 Things Successful People Do That You Don't in this episode and they welcome Profit Hacking’s Steve Daar to the show. AND TEAM PETE RETURNS! Get pumped. Listen in! »

Direct download: Breaking_Down_Your_Business_Ep._63.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Have you ever done something that you thought would be a safe move but turned out to be very risky? Brad shares what he’s done (spoiler alert: Launching his very own business!) and how he coped with what happened. Jill talks about her experience kloofing and why she would never kloof again. Your co-hosts discuss the Top 5 Ways To Evaluate Risk in this episode and they welcome The Barre Code's' Ali Haynes to the show. Jill even introduces a new tool for your biz! Listen in! »

Direct download: Breaking_Down_Your_Business_Ep._62_.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Did you ever get caught up in a fad? Say, slap bracelets or Chia Pets or, um, Facebook perhaps? Jill and Brad talk about the Tom Cruise Fan Club, mullets and why they hope that Foursquare is nothing but a fad in the social media universe. They also talk about the Top 5 Things We Are Not Going To Do This Year in this episode and they welcome She Swank | Too’s Lakesha Cole to the show. Stay tuned for Jill’s latest and greatest tool, too! Listen in! »

Direct download: Breaking_Down_Your_Business_Ep._61.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

Did you ever get caught up in a fad? Say, slap bracelets or Chia Pets or, um, Facebook perhaps? Jill and Brad talk about the Tom Cruise Fan Club, mullets and why they hope that Foursquare is nothing but a fad in the social media universe. They also talk about the Top 5 Things We Are Not Going To Do This Year in this episode and they welcome She Swank | Too’s Lakesha Cole to the show. Stay tuned for Jill’s latest and greatest tool, too! Listen in! »

Direct download: Breaking_Down_Your_Business_Ep._60.mp3
Category:Business -- posted at: 3:00am CDT

1