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In this special episode, Gresham dives into the practical challenges he’s facing, particularly around lead generation. After receiving a modest lead pack from his franchising organization, he realized that buying leads alone isn’t delivering the results he wants. He’s now weighing two options: partnering with a low‑cost program that offers SEO‑optimized content and running minimal‑budget Facebook ads, or taking a DIY approach to create and execute the strategy himself using the resources and team he already has. He feels torn between learning from an external expert and maintaining full control over the execution. Finally, he outlines his strategic plan to consolidate traffic and leads across multiple domains. Because some of his sites already rank well, he proposes creating a sub‑domain on the strongest site, publishing SEO‑focused content there, and funneling the resulting leads back to his broker business under a broader “umbrella” brand.  Blue Star Franchise: bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise In

Blue Star Franchise: bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - 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 here: cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this episode, Gresh shares the evolution of his franchise‑building process, noting that it took roughly a year to clarify his target market and strategy. Initially, he aimed at individuals who had been laid off, but he soon realized the more lucrative audience comprises employed professionals who are silently considering additional revenue streams. He explains the financing paradox: without a steady job, securing SBA loans is tough, yet a layoff eliminates the income needed to fund a new business. Consequently, he refines his outreach to those on the brink of layoffs or actively seeking semi‑passive franchise opportunities that can coexist with a full‑time job or another venture. After a brief dip in momentum over the past three months, he recommits to a new pivot, emphasizing daily progress, continual prospecting, and creativity in securing funding.  Blue Star Franchise: bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to s

In this episode, we have Dave Glaser, a two‑decade pedigree in enterprise payments—from early work at CyberSource, through senior roles at WorldPay and MasterCard. Dave modernizes the decades‑old banking network and makes bank‑account payments feel as seamless as credit‑card transactions online. His focus is narrowly honed on account‑to‑account flows, supporting both “pay‑ins” (receivables) and “pay‑outs” (payables) through a digital wallet that sits between the two, enabling businesses to move money internally before routing it to external bank accounts.  Dave stresses that effective leadership starts with trust, especially vulnerability‑based trust that allows teams to admit mistakes, learn, and move forward quickly.  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 here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podc

In this episode, we have Aliza Sherman, a pioneering web entrepreneur and author, a global women‑focused health brand that clears up the confusion surrounding cannabis and CBD. After discovering that much of the industry’s information was wrong, she turned a digital‑marketing prospect into a mission to educate women. Ellementa runs live events, webinars, and film screenings in over 60 North‑American cities while also serving as a “bridge” that connects reputable cannabis brands with these informed consumers, emphasizing product testing, ethics and women‑centered messaging. Aliza advises balancing business drive with personal wellbeing, relationships and staying true to one’s authentic identity.  Website: www.ellementa.com LinkedIn: alizasherman  Previous Episode: iam375-web-pioneer-and-author-behind-a-global-womens-health-company 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 FRE

In this episode, we have Maria Rapetskaya founder of Undefined Creative, which now boasts a nine‑year track record and a small, fully remote team of four dedicated staff. Undefined Creative specializes in motion‑graphics and end‑to‑end creative production. The firm handles everything from initial scripting and branding to sound mixing, shoot organization, and final delivery. Over time, the agency has secured high‑profile clients like A&E Networks, NHL, NBC Universal, and the United Nations, expanding from traditional TV show graphics to a broad mix of digital and event work. Maria’s “secret sauce” is rooted in a lifestyle‑first philosophy: she built the company to support a relaxed, healthy work life, emphasizing low overhead, remote work, and self‑driven employees who can thrive without constant supervision.  Website: www.undefinedcreative.com www.defineyourpath.co Previous Episode: iam374-founder-leads-media-production-agency-with-a-focus-on-motion-graphics Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our pr

In this episode, Gresham reflects on the steep learning curve of his one‑year franchise‑broker program, now 276 days in, noting that the experience has been far tougher than expected. He describes how competing priorities, imposter syndrome, and a lack of closed deals have forced him to reassess his focus.  Using a vivid gym metaphor (pushing a weighted sled), Gresham illustrates the temptation to “look up” and over‑analyze versus staying “head‑down” and grinding. He underscores that business success requires a clear why, vision, and the willingness to recalibrate goals, strategies, and revenue streams. Though the franchise venture hasn’t yet yielded fruit, he remains committed to building an ecosystem of multiple income sources—digital marketing, affiliate programs, and “CEO hacks”—and promises to keep the audience updated with fresh goals and actionable moves.  Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: https://bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for

In this episode, Gresham delves into the mindset behind his venture, using the mantra “finish the fight”—a phrase he recalled from a training‑camp T‑shirt—to illustrate the relentless mental battle entrepreneurs face. He describes how doubts, funding challenges, and personal hardships (including the loss of his beloved dog) can sap motivation, yet stress the importance of staying locked‑in, persisting through monotony, and using emotional drivers as long‑term fuel rather than short‑term fixes. This perspective underscores that entrepreneurship is as much about emotional resilience as it is about business tactics. He emphasizes his goal of carving out a new pathway rather than simply riding a stream of pre‑packaged leads, and he sees disruption and uncertainty as opportunities to innovate.  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 Franchi

In this episode, Gresh emphasizes the importance of staying true to one’s unique vision while continuously “building”. He explores the frustration of low leaderboard rankings, the feeling of being “mid‑tier” among roughly a hundred brokers, and the broader challenge of navigating early‑stage struggles.  Despite the setbacks, he frames these hurdles as learning opportunities, stressing the need to adjust strategies, sharpen mental resilience, and keep pushing forward toward the goal of becoming a million‑dollar broker. 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 here: http://cbna

In this episode, Gresh believes that sharing the highs and lows of starting any business can help aspiring founders see the real‑world path, not just polished success stories. He also shares a daily gratitude journal practice he’s kept for four years, citing a Maya Angelou quote—“you may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated”—and reflecting on Michael Jordan’s pivot from basketball to baseball as an illustration of having to relearn fundamentals and stay resilient when new ventures don’t immediately take off. The core of Gresh's message is about mindset. He admits that recent years have left his mental sharpness dulled, so he now prioritizes “sharpening his mind” through deliberate learning, reframing, and focusing on the process rather than the outcome. He stresses that challenges on his “broker journey” are part of growth, urging listeners—especially builders and creators—to keep running their own unique race, stay committed to personal development, and reach out for further support or update

In this episode, we have Mickie Kennedy, founder of eReleases, who turned a creative‑writing degree and a grueling wait‑staff job into a 25‑year PR career that helps small businesses get national media coverage without the huge budgets of big brands. He learned early that raw data alone doesn’t attract journalists; stories need a hook and context. By building a Rolodex of ~10,000 journalists and partnering with PR Newswire for high‑volume, discounted distribution, he provides an affordable alternative to costly newswire services. Kennedy’s key growth hack is a “survey‑and‑trade‑association” tactic: commission niche industry surveys, get trade groups to distribute them, and issue press releases that spotlight surprising findings. The resulting resource pages earn dozens of editorial links, boost SEO, and turn thin‑content sites into recognized thought‑leaders. He stresses targeting the right journalists, avoiding generic email blasts, and using contrarian angles to stand out—plus trusting hires, avoiding micro

In this episode, we have Adam Goodcoff, a fourth‑year medical student who transformed his early struggles with imposter syndrome into a thriving online brand called The Med Life. Focusing on a blend of study tips, travel hacks, and lifestyle content that showcases how medical professionals can enjoy life beyond the hospital or classroom. Adam’s growth strategy hinged on two core ideas: relentless work ethic (“hustle, grind, stay humble”) and personal connection with his audience. Looking ahead, he plans to broaden The Med Life’s reach to include other health‑care fields such as nursing, dentistry, and physical therapy, collaborating with experts to create tailored content. Website: www.seethemedlife.com Instagram: seethemedlife YouTube: UCN6oXnDhu4nfACa8J-MN-Zw Previous Episode: iam369-medical-student-develops-content-to-showcase-lives-of-medical-providers   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

In this episode, we have Erica N. Reed, a psychotherapist, corporate trainer, and adjunct professor, uses her clinical expertise to help leaders and employees “lead from within.” After leaving a toxic agency job and launching a private practice fifteen years ago, she eventually reframed herself as a CEO and began pairing individual wellness work with organizational training. Her mission is to improve employee satisfaction and mental health, arguing that when people feel valued and emotionally safe, they become more productive and stay longer with the company. She emphasizes that true leadership isn’t just about skills or credentials, but about emotional intelligence and the human element of business. Website: www.ericanreed.com Free Offer – managestressatwork LinkedIn – ericanreedlcswc Facebook Group – SelfCareforSuperwomen Previous Episode: iam367-psychotherapist-teaches-organizations-to-optimize-strengths-of-employees Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to le

In this special episode, Gresham shares about the power of a consistent morning routine, which he dubs his “star time.” He recounts how walking his late dog created a disciplined start to his day, fostering focus and productivity. By pairing this ritual with mental conditioning—such as listening to Myron Golden on turning stress into opportunity—he frames everyday struggles as blessings that strengthen character and drive future success. He emphasizes that simply showing up, whether for a workout or a business task, is often the hardest yet most transformative part of growth. Throughout the episode, Gresham maintains an upbeat, motivational tone, urging fellow builders to keep pursuing their unique visions. He acknowledges setbacks but remains confident that perseverance will lead to a breakthrough, noting that he’s already reached day 270 of his franchise‑broker journey.  Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: https://bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising

In this episode, Gresham reflects on his own experience of being laid off, admitting that if he’d known about franchising sooner—and had the capital—he might have taken a different route. This personal revelation has led him to pivot toward a B2C focus aimed at helping people who have been laid off find new opportunities. Gresh candidly discusses the challenges of juggling multiple responsibilities—running a new franchise brokerage, caring for a baby, and managing fatigue—while emphasizing that there’s never a “perfect” time to start a business. He stresses the importance of leaning on a supportive team and maintaining relentless effort, noting that progress only happens when you keep pushing.  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 News

Gresham Harkless shares his personal story: a string of layoffs in his early 20s left him frustrated, embarrassed, and feeling undervalued after years of broken promises and unstable jobs. Those setbacks rekindled an entrepreneurial itch he’d had since childhood—selling chips on the playground and taking sales gigs in college. After twelve years of running a six‑figure digital‑marketing firm and interviewing over 1,600 CEOs, he realized the key to resilience is finding the right franchise, not just any business. Today, through Blue Star Franchise, Gresham acts as a matchmaker, offering hundreds of vetted franchise opportunities across 30+ industries—from food and fitness to virtual and home‑based models. He invites anyone who’s been laid off or is at a career crossroads to book a free, no‑pressure conversation at bluestarfranchise.com, reminding listeners they have far more options than they think. Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: https://bluestarfranchise.com

In this special episode, Gresham then shifts to a personal story that led to his current drive: being laid off after years of “purpose‑filled” work running sports camps for young children in Northern Virginia. Despite his dedication—early arrivals, late stays, driving across the region, and filling in whenever needed—he felt discarded, which forced him to confront the deeper frustration of never being given a real chance to build his own business. That painful turning point ignited a long‑standing entrepreneurial spark. Gresham recalls early side‑hustles—selling potato chips on a playground, publishing a family newsletter, and taking sales jobs solely to learn how to launch something of his own. Now, with the layoff acting as a catalyst, he’s committed to turning his vision into reality. 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

Ram Krishnan, a seasoned technology executive with a background in systems engineering from UVA, GE leadership, and several SaaS ventures, joined Valant (valant.io) in 2020 to steer the company through its next growth phase.  His team built a “system of record” that serves as the base operating platform for medical practices—handling everything from patient intake, appointment scheduling, and payment collection to clinical documentation, claim submission, and follow‑up care—essentially automating the entire patient lifecycle and positioning the software as the practice’s essential OS. His leadership philosophy is anchored by two recurring nuggets: Peter Drucker’s maxim that “culture beats strategy for lunch,” and a relentless focus on the core problem being solved, whether in hiring, process design, or technology investments, echoing lean‑startup principles. Website: www.valant.io LinkedIn: ramkrishnan Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organi

In this episode, we have Jason Resnick, the founder of rezzz.com, who has been running a solo web‑development firm since 2010 while also coaching, mentoring, and selling digital products to help “feasters” – developers and designers who want to build recurring revenue and enjoy a life of time‑freedom. Jason explains that his primary motivation is to be present for his family, and after the birth of his first child he realized his deeper purpose: to guide other creators toward the same balance of financial stability and personal freedom. He leverages his own experience—recurring client work, community building, and two podcasts (“Live in the Feast” and “Ask Res”)—to offer templates, strategies, and personal lessons that cut through the overwhelm of today’s information‑heavy market. Jason’s coaching focuses on narrowing an ideal‑client profile, identifying red‑flags, and providing actionable templates that shorten the learning curve for his students. He emphasizes that a CEO’s role is fundamentally about servin

In this episode, we have Dr. Michelle Deering, the founder and CEO of Curative Connections, a consulting firm dedicated to strengthening mother‑daughter relationships. Curative Connections offers a blend of motivational speaking, workshops, group sessions, and one‑on‑one consultations—particularly for athletic families—aimed at helping mothers and daughters find clarity, calm, and intentional connection. Michelle’s “secret sauce” lies in her deep focus on helping moms become steady within themselves, addressing underlying wounds rather than merely applying surface‑level tactics common in many self‑help books. She emphasizes starting each day with quiet, mindful presence to foster self‑awareness—an approach she believes is essential for anyone who wants to give their best while staying centered.  Website: www.CurativeConnections.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/SportPsychologyDoctor Previous Episode: iam365-ceo-offers-mother-daughter-relationship-consultation-and-speaking-services Check out our CEO Hack Buzz News