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Tiffany Hoeckelman is the founder and CEO of Lone Orange, a virtual brand consulting firm dedicated to helping solopreneurs build powerful, authentic brands through strategy, systems, and storytelling.   Tiffany’s passion for supporting solopreneurs shines through in her belief that branding is about identity, not just imagery. She teaches that it begins with self-awareness, clear communication, and systems that turn vision into a consistent client experience.   She recounts how an early trademark dispute necessitated a rebranding effort, which proved to be a crucial catalyst for gaining clearer direction and a more defined mission.   Tiffany combines her creative branding expertise with a strong affinity for systems and structure, helping clients scale their businesses with clarity and integrity, without compromising their core values.   Furthermore, her “Know, Communicate, and Be” framework helps clients align every part of their brand with their purpose, attract like-minded customers, and build teams that

Josh Cary is a speaker, podcast host, and business coach who helps entrepreneurs shed the masks they wear and step fully into their authentic selves.    As the founder of The Hidden Entrepreneur Podcast, Josh draws from his powerful journey, having spent over 40 years hiding behind fear and seeking approval, to teach others how to overcome self-doubt, embrace vulnerability, and lead with purpose.    Josh committed to daily self-improvement, starting small with habits like waking up earlier, meditating, and prioritizing purposeful action.   Josh emphasizes the importance of aligning your actions with your long-term legacy and encourages others to define how they want to be remembered.    Website: Hidden Entrepreneur  LinkedIn: Josh Cary   Previous Episode: iam318-podcast-host-and-business-coach-teaches-entrepreneurs-to-embrace-fear   Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's

Gresham Harkless shares a powerful and personal update centered around his 38th birthday, using the day as a moment of introspection and realignment.   He recalls being on a podcast at 11:38 AM, the exact time he was born, which he felt was perfectly on brand and symbolic of his purpose-driven journey.    A standout moment from his birthday was the hydro float therapy session, where the calm, weightless experience in saltwater offered a clear reminder that sometimes progress comes not from effort, but from learning to release and trust the flow.   Gresham reflects on how entrepreneurs often carry the weight of constant decision-making, leadership responsibilities, and personal obligations, and how experiences like floating remind him that release can lead to greater clarity and peace.    Additionally, Gresham expresses excitement for the future, believing that the seeds he planted are beginning to grow and that through consistent action and spiritual trust, transformation is already underway.   Blue Star

Gresham Harkless shares that his routine has been disrupted by a new late-night work schedule and the demands of parenting, which have cut into his mornings and limited his time and energy.   Despite the challenges, he's encouraged by progress with a standout candidate who is actively engaging and requesting introductions to more franchise concepts.    Gresham recognizes the importance of follow-up not just with candidates but also with franchise Zores, emphasizing the need for strong communication throughout the process to prevent leads from falling through the cracks.   Gresham remains optimistic and focused on refining his systems, nurturing strong leads, and adapting his workflow to maintain momentum during this season of change. Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: https://bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: http://bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - http://franch

Gresham Harkless reflects on reaching day 195 of his franchise broker journey, expressing disbelief at how quickly time has passed and how much he’s learned.    Despite his 11 years of experience in digital marketing, he admits that breaking into the franchise space has required a different mindset.   Initially, Gresham focuses on generating a high volume of leads, as advised early on, and he now realizes that lead quality is far more important.   He's now recognizing the need to lean into his strengths in content creation and storytelling to differentiate himself in a crowded, highly competitive market dominated by lead portals and big-budget advertisers.   Gresham aims to reposition himself by combining his marketing background with brokerage in a more aligned, value-driven way.   Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: https://bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: http://bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise C

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless shares a deeply introspective reflection on a recent transformative experience he had during a float therapy session, which unexpectedly brought him a strong sense of spiritual and emotional release.    He talks about a powerful feeling of release, both mentally and physically, as if he had been carrying an invisible weight for years and was finally able to set it down.   Gresham recognizes that the moment fit naturally into his broader journey of personal growth and health, especially considering past difficulties with things like blood sugar regulation and the burden of striving for perfection in his decisions.   He emphasizes how entrepreneurs, including himself, often strive to control every detail, but moments like this serve as a reminder that surrender and acceptance can be just as powerful.    Furthermore, he’s reflecting on what the experience taught him and looking for ways to bring those lessons into his daily life and work, focusing on releasing the pressu

Jody Glidden is a seasoned tech entrepreneur and current CEO of Postilize, an AI-powered platform focused on helping professionals deepen and scale meaningful business relationships.   Jody shares his journey as a lifelong technologist and serial entrepreneur, having built five startups over the past 30 years, including Introhive, a global AI company valued at nearly $500 million.   He explains how his passion for both technology and human connection led him to create Postilize, which helps users remember important details about their network and engage more authentically, even as their relationships scale.   Jody emphasizes the importance of solving your problems, executing quickly on timely innovations, and staying within your domain of expertise.   He also shares hard-won advice about securing expert legal counsel during exits and major financings.   Website: Postilize LinkedIn: Jody Glidden   Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organiza

Steffany Boldrini is a seasoned entrepreneur, investor, and podcast host with a passion for building wealth through commercial real estate.    Originally from Brazil, Steffany discusses how her exposure to startups and angel investing led her to discover the superior risk-adjusted returns of commercial real estate, especially with guidance from a seasoned mentor.   She founded Monte Carlo Real Estate Investing and launched the Commercial Real Estate Investing from A to Z podcast to fill the educational gap in the commercial real estate space and to build a meaningful network.   Steffany highlights the power of being well-organized, staying connected, and generously supporting others.    She also emphasizes the importance of learning to ask for help, a skill she honed through personal growth programs like Landmark.    Website: Monte Carlo Real Estate Investments  LinkedIn: Steffany Boldrini   Previous Episode: iam317-commercial-reals-estate-investor-and-podcast-host-helps-client-navigate-real-estate   Check

Rasheedah Thomas is the principal and co-founder of RC Communications, a Washington, D.C. based strategic communications firm specializing in media coaching, branding, crisis communication, and public affairs.   Rasheedah brings over a decade of experience helping organizations, from local governments and nonprofits to international leaders, refine their messaging and navigate complex public narratives.   She is especially passionate about supporting women leaders and entrepreneurs in building authentic, impactful brands.    Rasheedah is also a sought-after media commentator on U.S. and global issues, a proud native of South Carolina, and an alumna of Howard University.   Rasheedah highlights how RC Communications stands out through its hands-on, high-touch approach with clients ranging from municipal governments and nonprofits to international heads of state.   She emphasizes the importance of media coaching rooted in real-world experience, the power of self-care for sustainability as a business owner, and t

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless reflects on the unexpected difficulty of gaining traction and closing his first sale. Despite consistent effort and staying committed, he admits that the process has been tougher and slower than anticipated.   He shares his experience with a promising candidate who has likely ghosted him, an example of the hesitation he’s noticing more frequently in today’s uncertain economic climate.   Gresham acknowledges that while the market plays a role, it's on him to adapt and adjust rather than make excuses.   He highlights the importance of focusing more on sales, reducing operational distractions, and leaning into higher-performing lead sources like FTD.   Gresham is recalibrating his approach with a mindset of resilience, experimentation, and self-awareness, looking for focused, strategic shifts that will help him turn persistence into progress.   Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: https://bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is

Gresham Harkless reflects on reaching day 193 of his franchise broker journey, expressing a mix of disbelief at how far he's come and a sense that he's still at the beginning.   He shares the challenges of juggling multiple responsibilities, especially the operational struggles with his main venture, Blue Star, where getting the team to perform without his constant involvement has been difficult.   He emphasizes the importance of systems like the EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System), acknowledging that real change takes time, the right people, and cultural alignment.   Gresham also acknowledges that he's running the brokerage on a part-time basis and may need to shift toward a more pragmatic and strategic model, much like a part-time real estate agent.   He highlights the need for pivoting rather than giving up, accepting the struggles as opportunities to build resilience.   In addition, Gresham’s faith gives him strength, guiding him to grow through challenges and stay adaptable, honest, and hopeful as he

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless shares an update on his progress, challenges, and realizations. After connecting with classmates, he realizes that while they’re each on unique paths, they share similar uncertainties.   Gresham expresses a growing sense that he needs to shift directions, choosing what feels true to him rather than following the traditional or expected route.   Gresham also emphasizes the importance of being intentional, setting plans in advance, following up consistently, and refining his outreach. Despite the frustrations, he remains committed to improving his approach and continuing the journey with a clearer sense of direction. Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: https://bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: http://bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - http://franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with

Gresham Harkless reflects on his 190-day journey as a franchise broker, expresses his frustration for initially straying from the path he instinctively knew was right, and leans into content creation and digital storytelling.   After investing in Google Ads with underwhelming results, he’s considering pausing them to reallocate resources toward more authentic and impactful efforts, like publishing educational content on franchising.   Gresham realizes that his true superpower lies in creating meaningful content that positions him as a knowledgeable authority.   He recognizes a significant gap in the franchising industry for quality content and expert-led digital marketing, and now feels compelled to fill that void. Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: https://bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: http://bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - http://franchiseceo.co Check

Dennis Schooley is the Founder and co-CEO of Schooley Mitchell, North America’s largest independent cost reduction consulting firm.    With a background as a Chartered Accountant, Dennis has over 25 years of experience helping businesses reduce expenses and improve profitability.   Schooley Mitchell has grown into a powerful franchise network of over 320 offices, serving more than 32,000 clients and saving businesses over $1 billion.   Dennis explains that franchisees don’t need to be experts in cost analysis, as Schooley Mitchell provides centralized support through a large team of specialized analysts.   He emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning, reading regularly, and leading with both passion and compassion.   Dennis also discusses their growing sustainability efforts, including planting thousands of trees for every new client and franchisee.   Additionally, he reflects on the meaningful impact of empowering business owners and creating opportunities for long-term success.   Website: Schooley Mitc

Chandler Walker is a visionary business leader with high emotional intelligence and a rare mix of strategic and technology, marketing, sales, and expertise, combined with a true talent for devising and applying new ideas and innovation to propel companies to build competitive advantages.   Chandler shares his entrepreneurial journey and the mission behind his two impactful ventures: Stone Age Fuel and Culture of Care.   Chandler realized the importance of customer connection and business autonomy, but also discovered he didn’t want a career rooted in hard labor.   Chandler emphasizes the importance of his "Five Pillars of Optimal Wellness", mental health, social health, nutrition/gut health, fitness, and sleep, as a framework for true, sustainable well-being.   Website: Culture of Care  LinkedIn: Chandler Walker  Facebook: Chandler – Culture of Care   Previous Episode: https://iamceo.co/iam310-business-leader-helps-clients-build-wealth-social-and-mental-health/   Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our p

Mike Newman is the CEO of Returnity Innovations, the pioneer in the elimination of single-use shipping packaging.   With over 20 years of experience at the intersection of sustainability and supply chain, Mike brings a deep understanding of how to drive real-world impact through practical, scalable innovation.   After directing the Sierras Club's political operations in 20 states, he received his MBA from the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan.   As Sales and Marketing Executive Vice President for ReCellular, he built e-waste programs for Verizon, AT&T, Walmart, Best Buy, and more, saving millions of used cell phones from landfills.   Mike has been featured on the Today Show, The New York Times, NPR, and many more, including the I AM CEO podcast.   He explains that true innovation means making reusable packaging just as practical and cost-effective as traditional materials, so companies and consumers can adopt it with minimal disruption.   Mike also discusses the importance of transpare

Gresham Harkless discusses the value of doing things differently, such as moving in the opposite direction of the crowd, to uncover unique opportunities.    Gresham shares his realization that relying solely on methods like Google Ads may not be the most effective strategy, and he aims to explore alternative approaches that align more closely with his strengths.    Additionally, Gresham highlights the significance of self-awareness, encouraging entrepreneurs to recognize and embrace their unique abilities to achieve success.   Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: https://bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: http://bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - http://franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy her

Gresham Harkless expresses his emotional and mental fatigue as he navigates the long ramp-up period, now around day 185, without yet closing his first candidate.   He discusses the importance of timing and financing in matching candidates with business opportunities, noting that even when there's interest, external factors can delay progress.   Gresham emphasizes his belief in "moving before you're ready," acknowledging that this mindset has propelled him forward, even without tangible results yet.   Despite challenges, including a rainy day disrupting his routine and emotional exhaustion from the process, Gresham remains hopeful and committed, recognizing that persistence and preparation will pay off once the first deal is finalized. Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: https://bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: http://bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - http://franc

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless explores into the challenges of franchise brokerage, particularly the extended sales cycles and the emotional aspects of entrepreneurship.    He emphasizes that while immediate feedback is scarce, signs like presentations, brand communications, and candidate interactions indicate movement.    Gresham also highlights the importance of recognizing small victories and staying persistent, even when outcomes are not immediately clear.    Through his experiences, Gresham has recognized that his strengths lie in lead generation and content creation, rather than managing the full sales cycle.   Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: https://bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: http://bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - http://franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level u

Gresham Harkless shares the challenges he faces in maintaining focus as increasing daily distractions and obligations make it more difficult to keep moving toward his goals.   He highlights the exhaustion that comes from constantly juggling priorities — family, business, leadership, and how that often leads people to choose more stable paths like traditional jobs.   Gresham reflects on the difficulty of committing to new opportunities, especially when results aren’t guaranteed, and how it requires a leap of faith.    Gresham emphasizes the value of getting just 1% better each day and embracing the long game, recognizing that real success comes through steady effort, adaptation, and an honest acknowledgment of life’s challenges. Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: https://bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: http://bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - http://franchiseceo