The Thoughtful Entrepreneur Josh Elledge of UpMyInfluence.com

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Founder of The Brand Sensei, G. Kofi Annan.
Kofi Annan engaged in a detailed discussion about the branding landscape of 2024, emphasizing the profound impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on marketing strategies. Kofi's deep understanding of branding dynamics, especially AI's transformative role, provided valuable insights during the conversation.
Kofi shared practical strategies for businesses to realign their branding efforts with core values and customer expectations. He emphasized the importance of revisiting the brand's mission, vision, and values to ensure all communications are rooted in these foundational elements, fostering a cohesive brand narrative.
Kofi discussed his approach to client work, including oversized, established brands and smaller, emerging entities. His customized strategies cater to each brand's specific challenges and opportunities, showcasing his adaptability and expertise across various industries.
Key Points from the Episode:Kofi Annan's expertise as a branding expert working with large and small brandsDiscussion on the rapidly changing landscape of branding in 2024Impact of AI on branding strategiesUnderstanding the gap between internal brand identity and external communication with customersPractical exercises for leaders to improve their branding strategiesInsights into Kofi Annan's work with clientsOffer of a free tool on The Brand Sensei website to evaluate readiness for AI in marketingValuable insights for business owners and professionals looking to enhance their branding strategies Practical and actionable advice for branding in the evolving market
About G. Kofi Annan: Kofi Annan has distinguished himself in the marketing and branding industry through a career spanning two decades, during which he has consistently driven innovation and growth for both multinational corporations and startups. His leadership roles at premier advertising agencies, including Saatchi & Saatchi and Ogilvy, have allowed him to leave a significant imprint on over 200 brands worldwide. Among these, notable names like PUMA and Mercedes Benz stand out, showcasing his ability to navigate and succeed in the complex landscape of global marketing.
Beyond his professional achievements, Kofi Annan is recognized for his thought leadership and contributions to the discourse on marketing in a technological era. His insights have been sought after and featured in prestigious media outlets such as The Wall Street Journal and Entrepreneur magazine. Kofi, a sought-after keynote speaker, has shared his vision and strategies for branding success at high-profile venues like Harvard, SXSW Interactive, and the United Nations. He is also the visionary behind The Brand Sensei, an innovative AI-powered marketing firm aimed at launching and nurturing smarter, more adaptive brands in today's fast-paced market.
About The Brand Sensei:The Brand Sensei offers innovative solutions for brands at the cusp of launching or scaling, employing an AI-powered approach to marketing that demystifies technology used for business growth. Their SMTR BRND™️ methodology empowers brands to achieve more impactful, innovative, and quicker results without compromising their unique identity or authenticity. The service is tailored to provide scalable solutions that capture but inspire and convert audiences into loyal brand advocates, effectively addressing the challenge of maintaining relevance and engagement in a rapidly evolving market landscape.
Addressing common hurdles businesses face today, such as evolving customer...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder and Lead Coach of Oak Bay Coaching and Consulting, Jennifer Wilson.
Jennifer Wilson is a leadership coach and the founder of Oak Bay Coaching and Consulting. Transitioning from a ski instructor and midwife to a family business leader and coach, Jennifer brings valuable insights to entrepreneurs and leaders. Her background in guiding skiers and assisting in childbirth has given her a deep understanding of human potential and the nuances of leading individuals through difficult transitions. This wealth of experience has propelled her into leadership coaching.
In discussions, Jennifer describes herself as a "thinking partner" to her clients. She adopts a non-directive role, encouraging clients to explore their solutions through introspective and powerful questions. This method promotes client autonomy and instill a sense of responsibility for their decisions and consequences.
A key focus of the discussion was Kolbe, a tool that Jennifer Wilson uses to assess individual strengths and problem-solving styles. She highlighted the importance of recognizing and utilizing these strengths and acknowledging the diversity within a team. This understanding is essential for entrepreneurs dealing with complex team dynamics.
Key Points from the Episode:Jennifer Wilson's journey and transition to becoming a leadership coachHer role as a thinking partner and guiding clients to solve their own problemsWorking with clients in family businesses and women in leadershipCoaching framework as a passenger in the car while clients are in the driver's seatThe value of Kolbe in understanding problem-solving strengthsChallenges that entrepreneurs face, including effective delegationAddressing burnout and the importance of self-reflection and leveraging strengthsResources available on oakbaycoaching.com for new leaders and preserving organizational cultureEncouragement to join the Thoughtful Entrepreneur communityPromise to continue bringing positivity and inspiration to listeners' daily lives
About Jennifer Wilson:Jennifer Wilson is a dedicated coach and mentor who fosters personal transformation and resilience in her clients. She perceives challenges as hidden opportunities and emphasizes the importance of understanding and utilizing one's innate talents. With a coaching career that began in earnest in 2022, Jennifer brings a wealth of experience from her diverse background, including significant roles in business, education, healthcare, and, notably, as a CEO in the family business specializing in Homestay placements for international students. Her approach is characterized by a blend of non-directive coaching and mentoring tailored to individual client needs, making her a compassionate and practical personal and professional development guide.
Jennifer's qualifications and experiences are extensive, covering a spectrum from a Bachelor of Science in Anatomy to an MBA in leadership, alongside certifications in coaching and the Kolbe Index, which she utilizes to enhance team productivity and stress management. Her life experiences, including overcoming burnout, career shifts, and personal trials, equip her with unique insights into life's complexities. Beyond her professional achievements, Jennifer is a dedicated mother, an avid mindfulness and yoga practitioner, and an enthusiast of Vancouver Island's outdoor adventures, embodying the balance and growth she encourages in her clients. 
About Oak Bay Coaching and Consulting:Oak Bay Coaching and Consulting is dedicated to unlocking the...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the CEO Advisor and Founder of Quantum Evolution Corp, Mariana Lacombe.
Mariana Lacombe, founder and CEO of Evolve with Quantum, specializes in helping CEO founders enhance their profits and net worth. Her unique approach combines personal growth with business success, which she believes is essential for effective leadership. Mariana's work focuses on helping founders realize the importance of personal development in translating business success into increased personal wealth.
She has committed her career to assisting founders in translating business growth into personal net worth. She believes that while leaders frequently prioritize the needs of others, personal development is essential for serving more effectively. This principle forms the foundation of her work at Evolve with Quantum.
Mariana also introduced her "profitability multiplier method," aimed at identifying and addressing profit losses within a company. This method may involve reevaluating expenses, modifying pricing strategies, or broadening services offered to existing clients. According to her, even minor adjustments in these areas can significantly boost profitability.
Key Points from the Episode:Importance of balancing personal growth and wealth with business growthIdentifying and addressing blind spots that may be sabotaging financial growthFree masterclass and routine checklist to help business owners streamline processes and maximize financial exitHelping CEO founders maximize profits and grow net worthFocusing on translating business growth into personal net worthChallenges faced by business owners in growing personal net worth while scaling their businessesImpact of business decisions on personal growth and wealthPsychological aspects of business and personal decision-makingAction items for assessing and addressing energy drains and business growth ceilingsProfitability multiplier method for identifying and addressing profit-draining factors in the company
About Mariana Lacombe:Mariana Lacombe is a distinguished entrepreneur and authority in business development, with over twenty years of experience assisting a diverse range of coaching and consulting clients globally to expand their influence and profitability. Her tailored advice and coaching methods empower entrepreneurs to refine their operations, boost revenues, and establish enduring strategies for sustained achievement. Mariana's effectiveness is evidenced by her clients, who not only have seen their net worth double but also have broken free from the relentless grind by adopting her systematic approaches.
With an eclectic educational background and extensive professional experience, Mariana is uniquely equipped to guide ambitious leaders to surpass their growth plateaus. She holds degrees in Psychology, Service Management, and an Executive MBA with a concentration in International Business and Finance, alongside certifications from the Harvard Coaching Institute and as a Certified Board Member. Before establishing her consultancy, she contributed her expertise to leading coaching organizations, including those of Tony Robbins and Clients on Demand. She successfully grew her ventures, demonstrating her capacity to drive significant business success and client transformation.
About Quantum Evolution:Quantum Evolution is a transformative force for business owners aiming to transcend conventional operational or sale objectives. Leveraging vast international expertise in corporate finance, leadership performance, and innovative funding strategies, Quantum Evolution...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Co-Founder of The Folson Group, Tina Larsson.
Tina Larsson, co-founder of The Folson Group, explored the complexities of HOA, co-op, and condo boards. Her insights proved invaluable to those managing or residing in these communities. Tina and her team specialize in consulting for volunteer-led boards in these sectors, mainly in New York City and nationwide. Volunteers face challenges in balancing board duties with personal and professional commitments.
A significant challenge for these board members is maintaining and upgrading outdated infrastructure. Tina emphasized the importance of addressing emergency repairs and initiating major projects like facade, roof, and elevator replacements. She advocated for a proactive approach to management, which involves anticipating and resolving potential issues before they become emergencies, thus saving time and resources and reducing stress.
The Folson Group's growth has been fueled by word of mouth, networking, and the influence of Tina's book. She invites anyone facing community-related issues to seek their support, highlighting their dedication to assisting boards in overcoming unique challenges.
Key Points from the Episode:The Folson Group's consulting services for HOA, co-op, and condo boardsChallenges faced by board members, such as aging infrastructure and emergency repairsTransitioning from a reactive to a proactive approachDynamics within the boards and making tough decisionsThe role of The Folson Group as coaches and therapists for boardsTina Larsson's book, "Living the High Life," as a guidebook for community ownersPositive feedback and impact of the bookAttracting clients through word of mouth and networkingThe importance of proactive solutions for community-related challengesEncouragement to reach out to The Folson Group for assistance
About Tina Larsson:Tina Larsson is a multifaceted entrepreneur known for her expertise in real estate and commitment to sustainability. Originally hailing from Sweden, Tina has significantly impacted New York City, transitioning from a successful career on Wall Street to revolutionizing the real estate industry. Her journey began with a remarkable achievement: saving her own cooperative housing (coop) $340,000, which laid the groundwork for her consultancy services. Tina's consultancy focuses on aiding cooperative and condominium boards to enhance their property values through strategic advice and innovative solutions. She holds a LEED Green Associate designation and is a recognized author and speaker, with works such as "Living the High Life" under her belt.
With her venture, The Folson Group, Tina has established herself as a key figure in encouraging sustainable and efficient management practices within the cooperative and condominium communities. By co-founding this consultancy firm, she has dedicated her expertise to guiding boards toward managing their buildings like businesses, emphasizing sustainability and affordability. The Folson Group's mission aligns with Tina's personal and professional ethos, offering tailored solutions that promote environmental responsibility while ensuring financial savings for their clients. Through her efforts, Tina has influenced the real estate sector and positioned herself as a leading "Green Queen" in the industry, advocating for a more sustainable and economically savvy approach to property management.
About The Folson Group:The Folson Group is a pivotal ally for New York City cooperative (coop) and condominium owners aiming to maximize the potential of their...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Co-Founder of Kingdom Marketing, William Reagan.
William Reagan, co-founder of Kingdom Marketing, provided an in-depth exploration of his journey in marketing and entrepreneurship. During the discussion, he recounted the founding of Kingdom Marketing, highlighting the challenges and achievements encountered while establishing the company. He emphasized the company's mission, which focuses on passion, perseverance, and a vision that transcends profit.
William also discussed the importance of building a brand to create a lasting legacy, not just selling products or services. He explained how Kingdom Marketing integrates purpose into its branding, effectively connecting with its audience.
William's insight into the marketing strategies that have driven the company's success was a key highlight of the conversation. He offered specific tactics, tools, and approaches for entrepreneurs looking to enhance their business strategies.
Key Points from the Episode:EntrepreneurshipMarketing strategiesBusiness growthInnovative approachesSuccess storiesIndustry insightsThoughtful leadershipImpactful strategies
About William Reagan:William Reagan stands at the forefront of Kingdom Marketing, a full-suite marketing agency he co-founded to bridge the gap between faith and business. Under his leadership, the agency has carved a niche by aligning with businesses and entrepreneurs who share a commitment to faith-oriented values. By specializing in a wide array of services, including SEO, web design, graphic design, and digital content creation, William’s enterprise strives to make a meaningful difference in the marketplace.
Their unique approach to integrating biblical principles with business practices distinguishes William and his agency. Drawing inspiration from the parable of the talents in Matthew 25, Kingdom Marketing focuses on talent optimization. This philosophy guides their business strategies and helps foster a community of like-minded individuals and businesses. Through William’s vision, Kingdom Marketing endeavors to expand its reach, contributing to the growth of a market ecosystem where faith and entrepreneurship flourish together.
About Kingdom Marketing:Kingdom Marketing emerges as a beacon for businesses rooted in faith and purpose, championing each enterprise's unique stories, dreams, and aspirations. This marketing agency is dedicated to amplifying the distinctive melodies of businesses, ensuring they cut through the digital noise to touch the hearts and minds of customers. Kingdom Marketing seeks to elevate these narratives with a focus on the untapped potential within kingdom businesses, enabling them to resonate globally.
Navigating the digital landscape can be daunting, but Kingdom Marketing simplifies this journey with bespoke marketing solutions that transcend mere algorithms and strategies. Their approach is deeply personal and centered on understanding each client's vision, passion, and journey. This partnership philosophy extends to their commitment to community and faith-based initiatives, making Kingdom Marketing a service provider and a partner in creating lasting impact. By aligning with Kingdom Marketing, businesses do more than grow—they contribute to a larger purpose, supporting community and faith-based projects that make a difference in the world.
Tweetable Moments:07:21 -  "To be an entrepreneur, you have to be a man of faith in something."
Links Mentioned in this Episode:Want to learn more? Check out Kingdom Marketing’s...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the CEO of Custom Creatives, Rahul Alim.
Rahul Alim, the founder of GSD (Get Stuff Done) and president of Custom Creatives, embarked on a journey that transformed him into a leader within the digital marketing industry. His agency, Custom Creatives, was established with a clear mission to significantly impact the digital marketing space. Rahul targeted businesses aiming to enhance their online presence with innovative and effective marketing strategies, focusing on delivering services and creating lasting impacts that would drive his clients' success.
The inception of the GSD program marked a significant milestone in Rahul's career. GSD is his initiative designed to empower agency owners at various stages of their business development. The program provides a structured path to achieve business goals, emphasizing the importance of action over planning, a principle that aligns closely with entrepreneurial values.
The conversation with Rahul Alim revealed key insights into his strategies and tactics for fostering agency success. From establishing Custom Creatives to launching the transformative GSD program, Rahul's story is a testament to the power of vision and determination in the competitive realm of digital marketing.
Key Points from the Episode:Rahul's journey in starting an agencyImpact of Rahul's workTarget audience for Custom CreativesGSD program for agency ownersInsights on tactics and strategies for agency owners and consultants
About Rahul Alim:Rahul Alim is the driving force behind Custom Creatives, serving as its CEO with over 16 years of experience in the digital marketing landscape. Beginning his entrepreneurial journey in 2004, Rahul has demonstrated a deep-rooted passion for entrepreneurship, a trait inspired by his family's business background. His leadership has steered Custom Creatives through the evolving digital marketing industry, focusing on innovative strategies and prioritizing impactful results for their clients.
Rahul's approach to business and digital marketing is characterized by his dedication to helping clients attract more customers, embodying the roles of a doer, a go-getter, a straight talker, and a connector. Under his guidance, Custom Creatives has specialized in delivering high-impact digital marketing solutions tailored for local businesses and attorneys, aiming to enhance their online presence and convert online engagement into tangible sales. Moreover, Custom Creatives extends its expertise to support digital marketing agencies in managing their client portfolios and ensuring quality service delivery across the board.
About Custom Creatives:Custom Creatives, founded in 2004, has established itself as a comprehensive graphic design and internet marketing firm dedicated to enhancing brand visibility and engagement through a holistic digital media strategy. Their commitment lies in delivering products and services that are not only innovative and intuitive but also intelligent, interactive, inspiring, and impactful. This focus has enabled Custom Creatives to craft solutions that adeptly transform website visitors into customers, leveraging the power of effective graphic and web design alongside a robust suite of internet marketing services, including search engine optimization and social media management.
Recognized twice as the #1 Digital Marketing Agency in Los Angeles by Clutch Agency in 2017 and 2018, Custom Creatives prides itself on a limitless capacity for innovation and creativity. Their team of dedicated and enthusiastic professionals is well-versed in various digital marketing disciplines,...