In this episode of The Beacon Way Podcast, host Adrienne Wilkerson welcomes James Barry, founder, and CEO of Pluck Superfood Seasonings. James shares his journey from being a professional chef in Hollywood for nearly 20 years to founding Pluck. He explains the initial inspiration behind Pluck, which began with his desire to find nutritious food for his family, particularly organ meats. James elaborates on the challenges he faced, such as starting his business during COVID, the lessons learned from his previous meal delivery service, and the importance of incorporating health and family into his business plan. He discusses the efficacy of Pluck in providing nutrient-dense foods easily and the positive impact it has had on its customers. James also touches on his podcast 'Everyday Ancestral,' the importance of valuing one's journey, and respecting others' progress in their entrepreneurial paths.

Website - https://eatpluck.com/
Amazon- https://www.amazon.com/pluck-organ-meat-seasoning/s?k=pluck+organ+meat+seasoning
Podcast -https://eatpluck.com/everydayancestral/
Company Socials - @eatpluck
Personal Social - chefjamesbarry

00:00 Welcome to the Beacon Way Podcast
00:31 Meet James Barry: From Hollywood Chef to Entrepreneur
00:58 The Birth of Pluck Superfood Seasonings
10:06 Overcoming Challenges and Finding Success
12:26 Balancing Health, Family, and Business
18:19 Launching a Business During COVID
20:58 The Power of Podcasting in Marketing
22:02 The Vulnerability of Entrepreneurship
22:42 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
25:52 The Importance of Honoring Your Experience
30:16 Balancing Growth and Sustainability
36:51 Effective Customer Service Strategies
40:49 Conclusion and Where to Find Us

Welcome to another insightful episode of the Beacon Way Podcast! In this episode, Adrienne is joined by Chris Maliszewski, founder of the Walking Tall Movement. Together, they discuss Chris's journey as a survivor of the tragic Highland Park mass shooting in 2022, how this experience inspired the creation of the Walking Tall Movement, and the challenges of navigating mental health while running a business.

Chris and Adrienne dive deep into topics like vulnerability, the importance of human connection, and the struggles of being an entrepreneur. They explore how trauma can be transformed into a force for good, the challenges of founding a movement, and why it's essential to talk openly about mental health. They also reflect on the power of community, relationships, and small businesses to drive change.

Tune in for a candid conversation on resilience, healing, and making a positive impact in the world.

👉 Links to check out:

• Visit the Walking Tall Movement website: walkingtallmovement.com
• Connect with Chris on LinkedIn: Chris Maliszewski
• Follow Chris on Instagram: @Chris Maliszewski

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and click the notification bell for more inspiring conversations!

Show Notes:

Guest: Chris Maliszewski, Founder of the Walking Tall Movement

Key Topics Discussed:

• Chris's Story: Surviving the Highland Park mass shooting in 2022 and how it led to the creation of the Walking Tall Movement.
• Mental Health and Entrepreneurship: The emotional challenges of starting a new organization and how vulnerability can be a strength for both founders and employees.
• The Importance of Human Connection: How human connection and relationships are key to mental health, small business success, and community impact.
• Turning Trauma Into Purpose: How Chris has used his traumatic experience to fuel positive change and inspire others to share their stories.
• Small Business Ownership: Why small businesses can provide more connection and agility compared to large corporations, and the importance of staying grounded in your mission.

Additional Insights:

• Support Systems: The role of peer support and mentors in navigating the entrepreneurial journey.
• Grief and Recovery: Chris shares his personal journey through grief after losing his job and how that led him to start his own business, Hail Hail Auctions.
• Breaking Barriers: The importance of empowering men, particularly in vulnerable demographics, to openly talk about mental health challenges.

Resources Mentioned:

• Walking Tall Movement: walkingtallmovement.com
• Chris Maliszewski on LinkedIn: Chris Maliszewski
• Hail Hail Auctions: hailhailauctions.com

Tune in and find out how Chris has turned his traumatic experiences into an opportunity for growth, advocacy, and connection.

Navigating Entrepreneurship & Parenthood with Dr. Melvin Varghese | Beacon Way Podcast

Join Adrian Wilkerson on The Beacon Way Podcast as he chats with Dr. Melvin Varghese, a licensed psychologist and founder of the Selling the Couch podcast. Dr. Varghese shares his journey of transitioning from a traditional clinical career to creating a top-rated podcast aimed at helping therapists build online income. They delve into the challenges and dynamics of being a working dad, especially in the context of navigating a premature birth and childcare, and discuss the evolving roles of working parents in today’s society. The conversation also touches on the cultural nuances of caregiving, with Dr. Varghese discussing his plans to offer executive coaching to Indian founders and executives. An inspiring and insightful episode for anyone balancing career and family!

Melvin Varghese, PhD is a licensed psychologist in Philadelphia, PA.

In 2015, Dr. Varghese founded Selling The Couch, a podcast to help therapists move from clinical to online income.

On the podcast, he interviews successful practitioners about how they've built their practices, social media/marketing experts, and shares lessons as he uses our clinical skills to create an online business powered by podcasting + online courses.

The podcast is one of the top Career podcasts in Apple Podcasts, has been downloaded over 1.8 million times, and is heard in over 125 countries.

Dr. Varghese also founded several resources for therapists transitioning from the therapist chair to online income including a podcasting community for therapists that’s supported over 240 therapist podcasters, an online course mastermind for therapists launching their first online course (50+ students), and a mastermind for veteran course creators to find support growing and scaling their course.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
01:37 The Journey to Podcasting Success
02:52 Balancing Parenthood and Career
06:34 Navigating Work-Life Harmony
23:45 Cultural Insights and Executive Coaching
32:30 Conclusion and Future Plans

Welcome to the Beacon Way Podcast! In this episode, we have the incredible Sean and Angie Taylor joining us to discuss niche marketing, business entrepreneurship, their founder's journey, and how their Christian counseling service, Cornerstone, came to be. Discover their inspiring story of overcoming stigma in mental health, navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, and integrating faith with clinical expertise to transform lives. Learn about their struggles, the importance of having an abundance mindset, and how they balance marriage and business. Tune in for an enlightening and uplifting conversation!

00:00 Welcome to the Beacon Way Podcast

00:47 Sean and Angie's Entrepreneurial Journey

03:52 Founding Cornerstone and Overcoming Stigmas

07:46 The Role of Faith in Counseling

12:07 Challenges and Growth in Business

25:36 Balancing Marriage and Business

29:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The Future of Mental Health: Insights from the 2025 State of Mental Health Report

In this episode of The Beacon Way Podcast, Jennifer hosts Brandon and Sanjana to discuss the findings of the 2025 report on mental health insurance and marketing trends. Sanjana, co-founder of Thrizer, and Brandon, owner of BG Copywriter, provide an overview of the report's key insights, including the challenges faced by clinicians with insurance, the growing trend of private pay, and potential innovations to improve the mental health industry's sustainability and accessibility. The conversation also covers the significant frustrations clinicians experience with insurance hurdles, the necessity of better data and stories behind the statistics, and potential improvements for future reports and industry practices.

00:00 Welcome and Introductions

00:56 Overview of Thrizer and the 2025 Report

02:12 Challenges with Insurance in Mental Health

03:24 Insights from the 2025 Report

03:36 Brandon's Perspective and Surprising Findings

07:28 Feedback and Reception of the Report

10:07 Future Directions and Improvements

14:44 Addressing Out of Network Benefits

21:43 Concluding Thoughts and Next Steps

In this episode of The Beacon Way podcast, we're joined by Daniel Sorochkin, the founder and CEO of TakeOne. TakeOne is revolutionizing the way service providers create professional introduction videos, focusing on authenticity and trust in the digital world. Daniel shares insights from his previous venture, Tiny Giraffe Pictures, his transition to TakeOne, and the importance of maintaining customer service excellence. He also discusses overcoming early challenges, leveraging AI, and educating the next generation in an AI-influenced world. Join us as we explore these topics and more with Daniel.

https://www.takeone.video/

00:00 Welcome to the BeaconWay Podcast

00:13 Meet Daniel from TakeOne

00:54 The Story Behind Tiny Giraffe Pictures

03:09 The Birth of TakeOne

05:36 Challenges and Early Days

09:41 Ensuring Authenticity in the AI Era

21:21 Transitioning from Tiny Giraffe to TakeOne

26:02 Evolving as a CEO

28:56 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Join host Jennifer on the Beacon Way Podcast as she converses with Melissa Rosenthal about navigating market pivots, the challenges of being a woman entrepreneur, current market trends, and the impact of AI on marketing and business. Melissa shares her journey from media to B2B SaaS, her experience building Outleaver, and the importance of trusting your gut in career and market shifts. This episode dives into the shifting paradigms of marketing in today's world, the balance between human interaction and AI integration, and the evolving dynamics of business relationships.

 Melissa Rosenthal: linkedin.com/in/melissarosenthal5

Outlever: https://outlever.com/

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

00:27 Guest Introduction: Melissa Rosenthal

01:21 Melissa's Background and Career Journey

02:21 The Concept of Outleaver

04:54 The Importance of Trusting Your Gut

08:01 Challenges and Pivots in Business

14:12 The Role of AI in Marketing

20:32 Women in Leadership and Entrepreneurship

27:31 Conclusion and Parting Words

The Mental Health Business: You Must Do Well – To Do Good

Welcome to the Beacon Way Podcast Executive Series! In this insightful episode, we sit down with Christina Zampitella, owner of a successful mental health and behavioral health practice, to discuss her journey from launching her own practice to building a thriving group practice with the help of Beacon's marketing strategies.

Christina shares her compelling story about the challenges and triumphs of starting a new business during the uncertainties of COVID-19, finding the right marketing partner, and the importance of having a balance between helping people and ensuring financial stability. We dive deep into her experiences of leveraging Beacon's tailored marketing efforts, tracking feedback, and making pivotal decisions to maximize her impact on helping the community.

Discover the transformative power of authenticity, collaboration, and resilience from Christina’s personal anecdotes of overcoming hurdles in both professional and personal life, including her battle with cancer. She touches upon the significant role her podcast has played in expanding her reach and impacting more lives.

This episode is rich with valuable lessons on growth, partnership, and the meaningful pursuit of making a substantial impact in the mental health world. Whether you own a business or are looking for inspiration to fuel your passion, this discussion is not to be missed!

Guest name: Dr. Christina Zampitella, FT

Founder & Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Fellow of Thanatology 

Bio: I'm a thanatologist, which is a psychologist that specializes in trauma, death, loss, and grief. I've worked in mental health for almost 30 years in a variety of settings, working with bereaved individuals as well as people who are processing things like depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and more. I use an individualized approach that takes each persons' mind, body, and spirit into account. I also value diversity and enjoy working with people from all cultures, backgrounds, genders, and religions. I started Center for Grief and Trauma therapy in 2019 after experiencing loss and discovering a passion for thanatology. I realized there was a need for specialist grief and trauma support. Expertise and creativity are at the core of my practice and I lead the team with authenticity, vision, and passion. 

Links: https://www.centerforgrieftherapy.com/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-jU_InSFb-lXZhRkWaDDIw

00:00 Welcome to the Beacon Way Podcast

00:57 Christina's Journey with Beacon

02:00 Navigating Business and Marketing Challenges

03:59 The Impact of Effective Marketing

06:02 Collaboration and Continuous Improvement

10:09 Personal and Professional Growth

19:30 Overcoming Challenges and Building Relationships

28:15 Unexpected Podcast Success

29:18 Embracing Authenticity

30:12 Balancing Personal Disclosure

31:47 The Power of Storytelling

32:57 Navigating Professional Boundaries

35:17 Impact of Authenticity

37:20 Podcasting and Community Building

38:09 Finding Meaning in Loss

39:32 Challenges and Growth

41:43 Rediscovering Purpose

53:05 Advice to My Younger Self

Building Resilience and Disrupting HR with Chrissy Myers | The Beacon Way Podcast

In this episode of The Beacon Way Podcast, host Adrian welcomes Chrissy Myers, CEO of AUI and Clarity HR, and author of 'Reluctantly Resilient'. Chrissy shares her journey of taking over and scaling her family business, starting a new venture, and leading through personal and professional challenges. They discuss the importance of resilience, authenticity in leadership, and navigating the evolving HR landscape. Tune in to hear Chrissy's insights on managing generational businesses, the impact of the pandemic on work environments, and the critical role of peer groups for business leaders.

About Chrissy Myers: 

Chrissy is the author of Reluctantly Resilient and the CEO of AUI and Clarity HR which serve small and medium sized businesses in both for profit and non-profit sectors in the areas of Human Resources and Employee Benefits.  Chrissy describes herself as the chief cheerleader setting direction, steering marketing content, and finding creative ways to disrupt two established business sectors.  Chrissy is also the author of AUI Gives Back & Clarity Cares two community impact programs where employees serve in the community, track their impact and share what they are doing on behalf of their customers.  

Around Akron Chrissy works to leave her community a better place.  She is a graduate of Leadership Ohio, Torchbearers, Leadership Akron, Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses, Sclaerator NEO and Community Leadership Institute.  She has received the 30 for the Future Award from the Greater Akron Chamber and an Achievement on Excellence Award from National Sales and Marketing Executives.  

As an advocate for families struggling with addiction and mental health issues, Chrissy currently serves as Chair for the County of Summit Alcohol, Drug Addiction, and Mental Health Services Board, and is a member of the Board of Directors for the Greater Akron Chamber and Goodwill Industries of Northeast Ohio.  Previously Chrissy has served on the Board or Committees for Jobs for Ohio Graduates, Red Oak Behavioral Health, Community Partnership of Summit County, and Social Venture Partners. 

Chrissy received her bachelor’s in business administration from John Carroll University and her MBA from the University of Akron.  When she is not plotting world domination of the insurance industry or volunteering in the community Chrissy can be found at home with Team Awesome Sauce including Steve, her husband, two kiddos - Maddy & Caleb. 

 Purchase Chrissy’s Book Here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D4RHL17L?ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_4FJ68Q15WSE8XVMMHHCQ&ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_4FJ68Q15WSE8XVMMHHCQ&social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_4FJ68Q15WSE8XVMMHHCQ&bestFormat=true

00:00 Introduction to the Beacon Way Podcast

00:46 Chrissy Myers' Background and Journey

01:57 Generational Business and AUI's History

04:11 Launching Clarity HR

07:07 Navigating HR Challenges During COVID-19

14:54 Resilience and Leadership as a CEO

18:16 Navigating Entrepreneurial Challenges

18:40 The Myth of Perfection in Business

19:25 Authenticity in Leadership

20:08 Balancing Transparency and Leadership

20:56 Building Resilient Teams

23:05 The Reality of Startup Life

24:53 Managing Growth and Transitions

26:41 The Entrepreneurial Mindset

34:32 The Importance of Peer Groups

In this episode of the Beacon Way podcast, host Jennifer is joined by Colin Jeffries to delve into various aspects of marketing within the healthcare and behavioral health sectors. They discuss Colin's podcast, the 'Rethink Marketing Podcast,' which has reached six successful seasons. Colin shares his journey in healthcare marketing, starting from his tenure at an orthopedic sports medicine practice to his current leadership role at BrightView Health. They talk about the transformative influence of telehealth and the evolving marketing strategies in the addiction treatment industry. Colin emphasizes the importance of optimizing conversion rates and collaborating with other providers to enhance the overall industry. They also touch on the impact and ethical considerations of AI in marketing. The episode concludes with insights into Colin's book 'Collecting Jelly Beans' and how to connect with him.

Unmasking the Behavioral Health Crisis: An In-Depth Discussion with TPN Health's Trevor Colhoun

Join your host Jennifer on The Beacon Way Podcast as she chats with Trevor Colhoun from TPN Health Trusted Provider Network. In this episode, they delve into the complexities of the behavioral health market, discussing issues with insurance, matching patients with the right care, and the role of marketing. Trevor shares the foundation and mission of TPN Health, aiming to bring transparency, connectivity, and value to the behavioral health ecosystem. Learn about the current frustrations, the disconnect between providers, insurance companies, and patients, and discover innovative solutions that TPN Health is implementing to drive better outcomes in behavioral health.

From Battle to Balance: A Veteran's Journey Through EMDR and Therapy

Join Jennifer on The Beacon Way Podcast as she delves into an enlightening conversation with Christopher Brown of Peak Psychotherapy. Christopher shares his compelling journey from military service and battling PTSD to becoming a licensed therapist specializing in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). Learn about the profound impact of EMDR on trauma recovery, the science behind its effectiveness, and its connections to ancient healing practices. Additionally, discover how psychedelic-assisted therapy is emerging as a powerful complementary tool in the realm of mental health. Christopher provides a deep dive into these therapeutic modalities and emphasizes the importance of integration and community support in the healing process. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in innovative approaches to mental health and trauma recovery.

Guest Christoper Brown 

linkedin.com/in/cdbrownvet

Websites

• peakpsychotherapy.co (Company)
• growingveterans.org (Company)

Email

chris@peakpsychotherapy.co

https://www.peakpsychotherapy.co/

https://growingveterans.org/

Overcoming Trauma and Thriving in Uncertainty with Johnny Crowder

In this empowering episode of The Beacon Way Podcast, host Jennifer welcomes Johnny Crowder, a mental health advocate, speaker, and founder of Cope Notes. Johnny shares his inspiring journey from a tumultuous childhood and severe mental illness to becoming a beacon of hope and mental wellness. He discusses the challenges and breakthroughs of living authentically, the importance of taking responsibility for one's healing journey, and how Cope Notes delivers daily text messages to foster healthier thoughts. Johnny also opens up about the recent loss of his home to a hurricane and his ongoing efforts to find strength in uncertainty. This episode is filled with profound insights on resilience, anti-fragility, and living a life of true freedom.

Johnny Crowder Contact Info:

linkedin.com/in/johnnycrowder

Websites

• johnnycrowder.com (Personal)
• copenotes.com (Company)

Email

johnny@copenotes.com

In this episode of The Beacon Way Podcast, Adrienne Wilkerson dives deep into LegitScript certification, detailing its importance for healthcare businesses. She explains how it enhances credibility, ensures compliance with industry regulations, and is essential for marketing healthcare services online. Adrienne highlights the rigorous certification process, including application submission, on-site inspections, and ongoing monitoring, to ensure high standards are maintained. The discussion also covers the specific benefits for addiction treatment providers, challenges in obtaining certification, and how to leverage LegitScript in marketing efforts. This comprehensive guide is crucial for any healthcare business looking to elevate its trustworthiness and visibility in the competitive online marketplace.

In this episode of the BeaconWay podcast, Adrienne Wilkerson delves into the impact of AI on content marketing, particularly in the behavioral health sector. Addressing the question of whether AI signifies the end of content marketing or a new frontier, Adrienne explores how AI enhances personalization, streamlines processes, and improves efficiency for behavioral health clinics. Despite these advancements, she emphasizes the importance of human creativity, empathy, and emotional connection in content marketing. Adrienne highlights the increasing accessibility of AI tools, the need for effective prompting, and the critical balance between AI-generated data and human touch to create impactful marketing strategies. Join us to discover how AI can be an asset rather than a threat to content marketing and learn practical tips for integrating AI into your marketing efforts.

Key Points

- Introduction to AI's impact on content marketing with host Adrienne Wilkerson. 

- Examination of whether AI is a threat or an opportunity in content marketing. 

- AI's potential to transform behavioral health clinics' approach to marketing and patient engagement. 

- Benefits of AI: enhancing personalization, streamlining processes, and improving efficiency. 

- Discussion on the importance of humanizing AI-generated content. 

- Accessibility of AI tools for businesses of all sizes, including small practices. 

- Key ways AI improves content marketing: data analysis, trend identification, initial drafts, and automation. 

- The necessity of correct prompting when using AI tools. 

- Shift in consumer behavior: from search engines to AI models for information. 

- The role of AI in automating routine tasks, freeing up time for creativity and strategy. 

- AI's role in enhancing patient engagement through interactive channels like chatbots and personalized emails. 

- Challenges of AI: struggling to replicate empathy and emotional connection. 

- Emphasis on human oversight and customization to ensure effective and appropriate content. 

- Recommendations for balancing human creativity with AI assistance for optimal content marketing.

In this episode of The Beacon Way Podcast, the host welcomes SEO and copywriting expert Krista Walsh. They discuss the complexities and myths around SEO, especially in the context of AI's growing influence. Krista shares insights into effective SEO practices, cautioning against quick-fix methods, and highlights Google's recent updates targeting AI-generated content. They explore the importance of user experience (UX) and clear messaging in converting website visitors, particularly in the mental health sector. Krista also shares her personal journey into SEO, her focus on healthcare and mental health, and practical ways she uses AI to enhance, but not dominate, her content creation. The conversation includes thoughts on content strategies and the beneficial use of LinkedIn for B2B engagement.

Krista Walsh Copywriter Links:

https://kristawalshcopywriter.com/website-agency

https://www.linkedin.com/in/krista-walsh-aa1b8a1a9/

https://www.instagram.com/kristawalshcopywriter/

SEO and AI in Marketing

• SEO remains confusing for many, especially practice owners and marketers unfamiliar with its intricacies.
• AI has added new complexities, often tempting businesses to use it as a quick fix to rank high on Google, similar to outdated "black-hat" SEO tricks.
• Recent Google algorithm updates target AI-generated content to demote low-quality, unhelpful content, reinforcing the need for user-focused, valuable information.

Sustainable SEO Strategies

• SEO should be viewed as a long-term strategy, aiming for steady, quality results instead of quick fixes.
• SEO’s value lies in bringing relevant users to websites, but effective user experience (UX) and compelling content are essential to convert visitors.
• Examples of valuable SEO approaches include optimizing content for clarity, ensuring helpful navigation, and refining titles or headlines to maintain user engagement.

Balanced Use of AI for Content Creation

• Krista outlines her approach to AI:
  • AI is useful for tasks like summarizing studies or rewriting specific sections but not for generating complete or first drafts.
  • Using AI sparingly in editing or research can streamline work while avoiding penalties from Google’s algorithms.
• The ultimate goal remains creating high-quality, user-centered content that AI alone cannot produce effectively.

The Power of Niche SEO and Personal Motivation

• Krista shares her journey into SEO, emphasizing her commitment to healthcare and mental health industries, driven by her personal experience and the desire to make a positive impact.
• Both hosts agree that having a niche and providing value within it attracts ideal clients, fosters credibility, and enables sustained business growth.

LinkedIn and Social Media in Professional Networking

• Krista highlights LinkedIn as a valuable platform for B2B marketing, offering a less video-intensive format compared to other social media platforms.
• The hosts discuss ethical concerns about TikTok, particularly for professionals in sensitive fields like mental health, and the potential risks of providing advice on such platforms.
• Instagram remains effective for targeting specific demographics like teens and parents, especially in contexts like addiction recovery.

Future Goals and Professional Growth

• Krista plans to continue refining her business offerings rather than expanding into new services, aiming for excellence and long-term impact.
• She values simplicity and focuses on producing high-quality, effective solutions tailored to the needs of h

In this episode of The Beacon Way Podcast, CEO Adrienne Wilkerson dives into one of the biggest challenges entrepreneurs face: the transition from founder to CEO. Adrienne shares her personal journey with Beacon Media and Marketing, revealing the key traits and strategies needed to navigate the unique challenges of startup growth and leadership. Are you considering stepping into the CEO role, or maybe debating whether to hand off the reins? This episode is packed with insights on what it takes to lead, grow, and build resilience as a founder.

Chapters:

·  0:00 – Welcome to The Beacon Way Podcast

·  1:15 – The Founder to CEO Transition: A Unique Journey

·  2:45 – Sobering Stats: Why Most Founders Don’t Become CEOs

·  4:30 – The Two Types of Founders

·  7:00 – Key Traits for Successful Founders: Innovation, Flexibility, & Adaptation

· 9:30 – Getting Scrappy: Building with Limited Resources

·  11:15 – Innovation & Creativity: Thriving in a New Market

·  13:00 – Grit & Perseverance: Overcoming Startup Hurdles

·  15:10 – Vision & Passion: The Real Why Behind Founding a Company

·  17:50 – Founder Blind Faith: Embracing Naivety and Belief

·  20:00 – Can a Company Outgrow Its Founder?

·  21:30 – What’s Next? Preview of Part 2 on Transitioning Roles

Key Points:

·The Founder to CEO Transition: Adrienne reflects on the personal and professional journey founders take when stepping into a CEO role, including the challenges and growth involved.

·Statistics on Founder Longevity: Many founders don’t remain CEOs; Adrienne shares insights from a Harvard article, with only 25% of founders leading their companies to IPOs.

·Two Types of Founders:

·Technician Founders: Focus on craft and production, leveraging technical skills and product expertise.

·Visionary Founders: Focus on solving big problems, often driven by a desire to create change.

·Traits of Successful Founders:

·Innovation: Constantly creating new ideas to keep up with or stay ahead of market trends.

·Flexibility: Adapting to shifting demands and unexpected challenges.

·Adaptation: Continually testing, learning, and adjusting in response to market feedback.

·Scrappiness: Adrienne shares the importance of resourcefulness, especially in the early days, like tackling office renovations on a tight budget.

·Importance of Innovation in a New Market: As one of Alaska's first digital agencies, Adrienne explains how Beacon’s creativity, like offering free marketing classes, helped them educate clients and build credibility.

·Grit & Perseverance: Emphasizing resilience, Adrienne notes that startup life comes with many challenges, and perseverance is key to overcoming them.

·Vision & Purpose: For most founders, having a strong "why" is critical to staying committed through difficult times—money alone isn’t the driving force.

·Founder’s Blind Faith: Founders often need a certain level of faith and optimism, believing their vision will succeed despite the odds.

When a Company Outgrows Its Founder: Adrienne introduces the idea that some companies eventually evolve beyond what the founder alone can provide, leading to decisions about leadership transition. 

THE BEACON WAY PODCAST: EPISODE 55

Workaholism and Its Hidden Toll: Recognizing and Rebalancing for Healthier Lives

In this comprehensive episode, host Ken Okonek along with special guest Carmen Paredes, the first Latina vice president at a leading telecom company in Alaska, discuss the multifaceted issue of workaholism and the journey towards preventing burnout. The conversation explores the stark differences between being a hard worker and a workaholic, the role of dopamine, and the personal stories and underlying motivations behind excessive work habits. Key topics include recognizing work addiction early, the impact of upbringing on coping mechanisms, and practical strategies for setting professional boundaries and self-care. The episode also delves into the high costs of burnout on personal and organizational levels, emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and healthy behaviors for leaders, and offers insights into balancing work with personal well-being. Additionally, the speakers elaborate on the global epidemic of workaholism, the serious health risks it encompasses, and the importance of quality time with loved ones and setting boundaries for holistic recovery.

About Our Guest: Carmen Perez

As the visionary behind Exceptional Leadership Solutions, Carmen’s mission is to elevate leaders and organizations maximize return on investment. Her intuitive and intentional leadership techniques are designed to transcend the existing inefficient dynamics in interactions between leaders and employees.
She’s passionate about sharing the leadership principles and actionable skills she refined in over two decades as a successful executive and passionate leader.  These very skills have enabled her to achieve remarkable results, fostering high performing and engaged teams in even the most demanding and challenging environments.
As a Latina leader recipient of the Volunteer Presidential Award, 2X TEDx speaker, award winning keynote speaker and best selling author, Carmen seamlessly integrates a diverse background, including an Engineering degree, an MBA, and a coaching certification accredited through the National Board of Certified Counselors.

Key Points

·  Personal Journeys and Challenges: Stories of becoming high achievers and the struggles of maintaining a balanced life while dealing with work addiction. 

·  Recognizing Workaholism: Insights into identifying the signs of workaholism and its origins as a coping mechanism for emotional neglect. 

·  Impact on Relationships: Exploration of how prioritizing work affects personal relationships and the importance of self-reflection and pruning social circles.

·  Overcoming Burnout: Strategies for recognizing and combating burnout, including setting boundaries, managing energy, and finding mentors. 

·  Achieving Balance: Tips on enjoying leisure time, engaging in self-care, and realizing that external achievements don't equate to lasting happiness.

·  Practical Advice: Discussions on the benefits of managing workplace communications, shifting focus to outcomes over hours worked, and understanding personal peak energy times for better productivity. 

·  Global Perspective: Addressing workaholism as a global issue and sharing strategies for safeguarding against it, including taking quality time off and creating accountability systems. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, this episode offers a comprehensive look at how to achieve a healthier work-life balance and overcome the hustle mentality.

Join us in this insightful episode of The Beacon Way Podcast, where host Jennifer Christensen sits down with Sanjana, Co-Founder of Thrizer. Discover how Thrizer is transforming the therapy landscape by making out-of-network services straightforward and accessible for both therapists and clients. Dive into the origins of Thrizer, the challenges they've overcome, and the innovative solutions they're bringing to the mental health industry.

What you’ll learn:

· Insights into the bootstrap approach, product development phases, and strategic decisions that have shaped Thrizer.

· How Thrizer has achieved growth without venture capital and learn about their unique market approach and customer-centric focus.

·  Valuable insights and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make a significant impact in their industries.

Key Points:

· Inspiration for Thrizer: Personal challenges that led to the founding of Thrizer and its mission to improve the therapy process.

· Mission and Impact: How Thrizer simplifies the out-of-network therapy experience for both therapists and their clients.

· Product Development: Initial stages of building Thrizer, including key decision-making and the bootstrap approach to funding.

· Growth Strategy: How Thrizer has grown organically without venture capital and their customer-centric focus.

· Feedback and Market Response: The positive feedback from therapists and clients and how it has influenced Thrizer’s services.

· Expansion Plans: Future goals for expanding Thrizer’s services into other therapeutic areas beyond mental health.

· Advice for Entrepreneurs: Insights and practical advice for budding entrepreneurs on navigating challenges and enjoying the startup journey.

Join us for an enlightening episode of The Beacon Way Podcast, where host Jennifer Christensen explores the multifaceted journey of Peter House, Founder + CEO of DeepTree – an IT support service in Palmer, Alaska. Jennifer and Peter discuss real-world implications of starting and scaling a business, the critical importance of listening to the market, and how to leverage community and mentorship to propel business growth. Peter shares his personal experiences and the strategic decisions that have defined DeepTree's success, offering listeners a blend of motivational stories and practical advice.

Key Points:

·         Early Insights into IT and Education: Peter discusses his initial foray into the tech world, detailing how financial needs during his education led him to a tech support job.

· The Leap into Entrepreneurship: Exploration of Peter's decision to start his own IT firm after recognizing the limited job opportunities in academia.

· Challenges in Establishing DeepTree: Challenges faced and strategies employed in the initial stages of starting DeepTree, aligning IT services with evolving market demands.

· Adopting a Customer-Centric Business Model: The significance of adapting services to meet customer needs and strategies for building long-term relationships.

· Integrating Cybersecurity in Business Services: Discussion on the growing importance of cybersecurity within IT services and how DeepTree has responded.

· Resilience and Adaptability in Business: How overcoming operational challenges and strategic decisions have played a crucial role in DeepTree’s success.

· Leveraging Market Feedback for Business Adaptation: How DeepTree uses customer and market feedback to refine and adapt business services.

· Strategic Risk Management in IT: Insights into managing risk and uncertainty within the tech sector and the strategic thinking behind DeepTree’s operations.

· Mentorship’s Impact on Business Growth: The role of mentorship and professional communities in supporting Peter’s entrepreneurial journey and business growth.

· Anticipating Future IT Trends: Predictions for technological advancements and preparing businesses to adapt to forthcoming changes in the IT landscape.

· Entrepreneurial Advice for Aspiring Business Owners: Peter shares critical advice on adaptability, vision, and perseverance for success in the competitive IT industry.

Welcome back to The Beacon Way Podcast starring our Executive Team! Join Co-Founders Adrienne Wilkerson and Jennifer Christensen, and Partner, Ken Okonek as they unpack how successful executives harness the power of downtime to enhance their leadership and operational efficiency. Discover strategies from seasoned leaders who prioritize well-being to drive company success. Tune in as we explore the undeniable benefits of integrating rest into a demanding schedule, providing you with actionable insights to transform your approach to work and life balance. 

· Discussion on the scientific and psychological benefits of downtime.

· Insights into how downtime contributes to enhanced decision-making and creativity.

· Adrienne, a CEO, shares her journey towards incorporating downtime into her busy schedule. Specific changes she made and the positive impacts on her leadership and personal satisfaction. The challenges she faced in admitting the need for rest and how she overcame them.

·Jen recounts the health issues that arose from continuous work without breaks. The serious consequences she faced and the wake-up call that led her to prioritize her health. Steps she took to integrate downtime and the improvements in her health and work performance.

· Ken discusses the concept of "selfishness" in the context of self-care and why it is beneficial for the team and the organization as a whole. His views on how personal well-being impacts professional responsibilities and team dynamics. 

· Specific tips and strategies shared by the hosts for integrating downtime into a demanding schedule. Examples of small changes that can lead to significant benefits in both personal well-being and professional efficacy.

We’re back with another episode of The Beacon Way Podcast! In this executive series episode, Co-Founders Adrienne Wilkerson and Jennifer Christensen, and Partner, Ken Okonek delve into the advanced hiring strategies essential for any forward-thinking leader. This discussion provides a roadmap to securing top talent, crucial for a thriving workplace culture. Explore the art of hiring as we dissect practical insights influenced by notable leaders like Steve Jobs and Barbara Corcoran and integrate cutting-edge tools such as the Predictive Index. 

Key Points:

- Introduction to Hiring Excellence: Exploring the transformative approaches and importance of hiring top-tier talent for fostering a thriving workplace culture.

- Leveraging Steve Jobs' Legacy: How adopting Steve Jobs' strategy of hiring A-players at Apple can elevate company performance.

- Recruitment Strategies: Techniques and innovative solutions for attracting and engaging the best candidates in today's competitive job market.

- Automating Candidate Engagement: The impact of implementing automated systems to enhance communication with potential hires.

- Revitalizing Company Culture: Lessons from past mistakes and strategies to overcome a toxic workplace environment.

- Balancing Skills and Culture: Navigating the intersection of professional abilities and cultural fit in hiring decisions.

- Coaching for Peak Performance: How effective coaching can transform good employees into great ones and sustain high performance.

- Using Predictive Index: How this tool helps optimize hiring decisions by aligning candidate profiles with job requirements.

- Skill Matching in Recruitment: Addressing the challenges of aligning specific job roles with the right candidate skills.

- Continuous Improvement in Hiring: Strategies for refining hiring processes based on feedback and practical insights.

- Harnessing Soft Skills: The importance of emotional intelligence and soft skills in complementing technical abilities in the workplace.

Tune in to the second episode in our Executive Series of The Beacon Way Podcast with CEO/Co-Founder, Adrienne Wilkerson, CMO/Co-Founder, Jennifer Christensen, and CRO/Partner, Ken Okonek. Today, they’re talking about the vital role of constructive conflict in building resilient teams and fostering a culture of open communication. Learn from top executives as they share their personal experiences, the challenges they've faced, and the strategies that have transformed their approach to leadership. Whether you're a seasoned leader or aspiring to manage a team, this episode offers valuable insights into turning conflict into a tool for growth and innovation.

Key Points:

·         Introduction to Constructive Conflict: Exploring the fundamental concepts and benefits of engaging in constructive conflict within teams.

·         Overcoming the Fear of Conflict: Strategies for addressing and alleviating common fears associated with conflict in professional settings.

·         The Role of Conflict in Organizational Strength: How conflict, when managed well, contributes to the resilience and growth of an organization.

·         Book Insights: Five Dysfunctions of a Team: Lessons and takeaways from the book that relate to harnessing conflict for team improvement.

·         Implementing Conflict Positively in Team Dynamics: Practical approaches to foster a culture where conflict leads to positive outcomes.

·         Real-Life Examples of Conflict Leading to Innovation: Case studies demonstrating how conflict has driven innovation and improvement.

·         Building Trust Through Healthy Conflict: Techniques for building and maintaining trust through the process of constructive disagreement.

·         Conflict Resolution: Offering practical tips and techniques for resolving disputes effectively.

·         The Importance of Perspective in Conflict Situations: Understanding different viewpoints to enrich the resolution process.

·         How to Encourage Constructive Disagreements: Encouraging team members to engage in healthy debates without damaging relationships.

·         Leadership and Conflict: Guidance for leaders on embracing conflict as a tool for personal and organizational growth.

·         Q&A Session: Addressing common questions and concerns about managing conflict in the workplace.

Join us in this enlightening episode of the Beacon Way Podcast as Adrienne Wilkerson, CEO and Co-Founder of Beacon Media and Marketing, discusses the transformative journey of becoming an entrepreneurial powerhouse. Discover the core values and dynamic strategies that have shaped Beacon's success in the ever-evolving world of digital marketing. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this episode offers valuable insights into cultivating a thriving, innovative company.

Key Points:

·         Entrepreneurial Spirit at Beacon: Adrienne discusses her personal journey and the core values that define Beacon as an entrepreneurial company.

·         Inspirational Insights: A revelation from Dan Sullivan's book that redefined Beacon's approach to entrepreneurship.

·         Learning by Doing: Emphasizing the importance of hands-on experience over theoretical knowledge in digital marketing.

·         Adaptability in Workflows: How Beacon embraces adaptable workflows and results-focused objectives to stay competitive.

·         Flexibility Over Rigidity: The strategic advantage of embracing ambiguity and versatility in a rapidly changing industry.

·         Prioritizing People: Beacon’s commitment to putting people over profit, emphasizing employee well-being and a supportive culture.

·         Valuing Contributions from All: Recognizing and valuing input from team members at all levels to foster innovation.

·         Cultivating Relationships: The importance of building strong, genuine relationships both within the company and with clients.

·         Commitment to Innovation: Rejecting the comfort of the status quo by continuously seeking innovation and embracing change.

·         Knowledge Sharing: Advocating for a culture of openness and transparency in sharing knowledge, benefiting the entire industry.

·         Encouraging an Abundance Mindset: Promoting a culture where knowledge is shared freely, fostering an environment of growth and mutual benefit.

This week, we’re diving deep into the evolving world of AI in marketing with host Jennifer Christensen and special guest Michelle Williams in this engaging episode of The Beacon Way. We unpack the exciting and sometimes daunting aspects of AI, how it's being integrated into marketing strategies today, and what ethical challenges arise. This episode is packed with forward-thinking ideas, practical advice from industry insiders, and a peek into the future of digital marketing. Perfect for marketers, business owners, and anyone intrigued by the intersection of technology and marketing.

Key Points:

·         Introduction to AI in Marketing: Exploring the role and impact of AI technologies in current marketing strategies.

·         Insights from Macon Marketing AI Conference: Key takeaways and lessons from a major AI conference attended by industry leaders.

·         AI Policy Development: How different departments at Beacon are creating specific AI guidelines to streamline their operations.

·         Human Creativity vs. AI Automation: Balancing technological efficiency with the need for human creativity and intuition in content creation.

·         Ethical Use of AI: Discussing the ethical implications and responsibilities of using AI in marketing.

·         Future Predictions for AI: Speculations and expert opinions on the future developments in AI and its effects on marketing practices.

·         AI’s Impact on Jobs and Business Operations: How AI is transforming job roles and business processes within the marketing industry.

·         Interactive Q&A: Addressing audience questions and concerns about implementing AI in marketing strategies.

·         Conclusion: Summarizing the discussion and providing thoughts on responsible AI use in marketing going forward.