Starting a podcast or creating content today can feel easy but also confusing. There are more options and tools than ever before! On this episode of Hustle and Flowchart, I sat down with Jacob Gooden, the guy who makes sure our show sounds and looks good, and who helps all kinds of creators with their podcasts and content. Jacob has years of experience running podcasts, editing content, using smart tools like Descript and Castmagic, and guiding new creators on where to focus.

You don’t need fancy equipment to get started anymore. In our talk, Jacob shared his journey from wanting to be a podcaster for years, sitting on an idea, to finally launching his own podcast. We covered how to figure out your “why,” how to get content ideas out of your head, which tools are the easiest to use, and how staying consistent can help you reach more people.

Whether you’re a solo creator, a business owner, or just someone who wants to try making a show for fun, this episode breaks down what you need to know. We also talked about why you shouldn’t worry about being everywhere, how to scale your workflow, and tips for getting help as your show grows.

Jacob Gooden explained that now is the easiest time ever to be a content creator. Phones in our pockets work as cameras and microphones. Free and cheap apps do what once took expensive studios. But, with so many tools and platforms—TikTok, podcasts, blogs, YouTube, and more—it can make your head spin about where to start.

Key points:

• Use what you have. You don’t need a giant budget to start.
• Try different things, see what sticks, and learn as you go.
• Commit to starting, even if it looks rough (“start ugly” is the motto from Chris Krimitsos).
• Phones work great to record your first episodes or videos.

Before you make your show, get clear about why you want to create and what you’ll talk about. Jacob shared how he sat on a podcast idea for years, thinking about different topics. He didn’t want to make just another “people talking on a couch” show. During COVID, old friends inspired him to finally start a podcast about being homeschooled and how it shaped who he is now.

Takeaways:

• Ask yourself: Why are you making this show? Who should it help or connect with?
• Be honest and specific with your purpose. Jacob's current podcast helps other homeschoolers, parents, and anyone curious about homeschooling.
• Your show’s goal can change over time. Jacob’s podcast got deeper and more meaningful as he produced more episodes.
• It’s normal for your first ideas to change. Keep checking in with yourself about your intentions.

Many people wait too long to start because they worry about not having fancy gear. Jacob and I both think you should just start with what you have and upgrade as you go along.

Important advice:

• A phone is enough to begin recording both audio and video.
• Use free or budget-friendly apps like Riverside.fm, Zoom, or the built-in camera app.
• “Start ugly” and don’t worry about perfection.
• If you want to upgrade, get a better microphone (Jacob likes the Shure MV7) and later a dedicated camera, but the phone is great for most people.

“Just pull the thing that’s in your pocket, your phone, and start figuring out how to use this to make something—that’s what’s incredible,” Jacob said.

Editing can feel hard when you’re new, but with tools like Descript, it gets way easier. Jacob walked through his editing process and shared some tricks:

• Descript lets you edit audio and video like fixing a Word doc. Delete “ums,” filler words, long pauses, or bad takes quickly.
• Recording your show into Descript or...

Hustle & Flowchart is proud to be part of the HubSpot Network.

• Hubspot has launched a whole new suite of AI Tools, check them on the Hubspot.com: https://www.hubspot.com
• Check out other podcasts on the HubSpot Podcast Network: https://www.hubspot.com/podcastnetwork

In this engaging episode of Hustle and Flowchart, host Joe Fier welcomes AI enthusiast Joe Stolte to discuss the transformative impact of AI in business, particularly in lead generation and conversions. Joe Stolte shares insights from his experience as a five-time founder and co-founder of Daily AI. Together, they explore the practical applications of AI, emphasizing the power of automation in nurturing leads and maximizing time efficiency. This episode is packed with actionable strategies for leveraging AI to drive business success.

Topics Discussed:

• AI's Current State and Business Impact: Discussion on how AI's capabilities are rapidly advancing and its role in generating, nurturing, and converting leads.
• Understanding the Lead Lifecycle: Insights on why many businesses struggle with lead generation and how AI can solve these challenges.
• Using AI for 'Speed to Lead': Importance of responding to leads quickly and how AI can automate this process for higher conversion rates.
• Reactivating Dead Leads: Techniques to use AI for contacting past leads and turning them into potential customers.
• Data Enrichment and Ranking: How to utilize AI to enhance and analyze data for better-targeted marketing efforts.
• Daily AI's Automated Email Newsletters: How Daily AI uses machine learning to improve open rates and personalize content.
• Future of Marketing with AI: Predictions about AI-driven personalized marketing and the potential shift away from traditional software interfaces.

Resources Mentioned:

• Try out Daily.ai for yourself and if you're not happy with it, tell them to kick rocks
• VAPI.AI
• DM Joe Stolte and add the word "Time" to your DM for Joe's prompt on optimizing your time

Connect with Us:

Stay connected with us for more insightful episodes:

• Hustle and Flowchart Website
• Follow us on Instagram
• Subscribe on YouTube

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In this podcast episode, Joe Fier and Jon Staenberg explore the emerging landscape of search funds, a transformative and under-the-radar investment opportunity. As they discuss the impact of the "silver tsunami" and technological advancements, Jon highlights the potential for this small business aquisition to drive entrepreneurial growth. Reflecting on lessons from industry giants like Warren Buffett, Jon shares insights from his career journey and emphasizes the importance of constant reinvention to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving business environment.

Jon Staenberg explains that a search fund is a unique investment model where individuals or teams raise capital to search for and acquire a business. This model allows individuals, often fresh out of business school, to purchase companies with strong potential and lead them to growth and success. The concept was initially taught at schools like Stanford and Harvard, and its popularity is spreading across the globe.

Jon highlights the growing trend of baby boomers retiring and the opportunity it presents for buying businesses. Small businesses with established market presence and potential for improvement are ripe for acquisition. This situation creates a "silver tsunami" of opportunities. Search funds target companies within the $2 to $5 million EBITDA range, making them accessible yet highly profitable investments.

Jon shares his journey into creating Agate Hound, his fund that supports search funds. He emphasizes the importance of investing in funds that have a well-thought-out playbook, ensuring systematic success in acquiring and managing businesses. For him, it's crucial to have passionate entrepreneurs, buy the right businesses, and have a strong support network.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) plays a significant role in Jon’s current ventures. AI helps showcase the potential of technology in transforming and running businesses more efficiently. AI can aid in everything from making business processes smoother to offering innovative solutions and creative ideas for business growth.

Jon believes in investing in so-called "boring" businesses, like pool cleaning companies or accounting firms. These businesses might not be flashy, but they provide steady income and reliable returns. Search funds capitalize on these opportunities, bringing fresh energy and modern strategies to well-established enterprises.

Jon remains focused on growing the search fund model, seeing it as a valuable asset for investors seeking solid, long-term growth. He sees his role not just as an investor but as a mentor, helping new business leaders to navigate through acquisitions successfully.

For those interested in the world of search funds, Jon recommends starting with educational resources like the Stanford primer on search funds. Numerous books and podcasts can also provide valuable insights.

• Ask Jon questions 24/7 with his Delphi Clone
• Learn more about Jon's Search Fund Agate Hound Fund
• Grab a bottle of Jon's wine before it's gone at Hand of God Wines
• Shoot Jon an email at jon@agatehound.fund or jon@handofgodwines.com

Hormones play a crucial role in both men's and women's health. I recently had the pleasure of chatting with Dr. Pamela Smith on the Hustle and Flowchart podcast about this important topic, especially focusing on male hormones and how they affect entrepreneurs like us. Dr. Smith shared valuable insights on hormonal balance and its connection to our health, energy, and ability to stay productive in our busy lives. Let's dive into the key points we discussed in the episode.

In this episode, Dr. Pamela Smith sheds light on the importance of hormones for both men and women. Most of us often neglect understanding how vital hormones are in maintaining our memory, preventing diseases, supporting our immune systems, and overall physical and mental well-being. Dr. Smith not only talks about male hormones but also explains the interconnectedness of male and female hormonal health. Alongside hormone replacement for men, she delves into the role of estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, cortisol, and thyroid hormones in the body.

Hormones help us think clearly, feel good, and remain motivated. Aging naturally affects hormone levels, but several factors like the environment, toxins, and stress can disrupt hormonal balance. As Dr. Smith points out, many men in their 30s now have low testosterone levels, which used to be uncommon. This hormonal imbalance influences our physical health, mental clarity, and energy levels.

Though predominantly seen as a female hormone, estrogen is also present and necessary in men. It supports memory, bone structure, and prevents erectile dysfunction. However, Dr. Smith warns that too much estrogen in men can increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. It's crucial for men to maintain estrogen at normal levels, neither too high nor too low.

Progesterone in men supports nerve health and hormone balance. It also helps prevent high levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which can enlarge the prostate and increase heart disease risk. Testosterone is misunderstood as just the sexual interest hormone. Dr. Smith emphasizes that it is essential for energy, muscle mass, lowering cholesterol, and supporting overall mental health.

As we age, hormonal dysfunction increases due to various external factors. The rise of toxins like BPAs and microplastics affects testosterone levels. Julie highlighted surprising statistics: a woman who breaks a hip has a 50% chance of not walking for a year, and a man, 50% chance of dying within a year, underscoring the seriousness of bone health in men which is influenced by hormones.

The power of personalized medicine cannot be overstated. Unlike conventional treatments, personalized medicine precisely targets individual needs for optimal health results. The science Dr. Smith practices tailors for individuals— as evident with hormones, where no two patients receive identical treatments. This approach ensures balance in hormone replacement and nutrition.

Dr. Smith outlines the importance of the thyroid, the "conductor" organ for our entire system. Insulin balance is paramount too. High or low levels are common, but the key markers, like fasting blood sugar and insulin levels, are crucial for preventing diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. The connection between testosterone regulation and insulin balance was also elucidated.

• Website
• Books
• Email Dr. Pamela Smith at faafm63@yahoo.com

Welcome to the Hustle and Flowchart podcast! I'm Joe Fier, and today we talk about how human creators like you are at the heart of AI. We also explore how to use AI to spread your ideas further. Together, let's dive into why your creativity is key in this world filled with AI tools.

AI can't exist without human creators. You and I, we are the ones creating content—books, blogs, videos, and even social media posts. This content builds the foundation for AI tools like Chat GPT and Claude to work. But here's the exciting part—AI helps us be even more creative! So, let's explore how you can make the most of AI in your work.

AI relies on what we create. Our words, ideas, and life perspectives fuel the AI engine. AI's knowledge comes from the data sets we provide. It's crucial to remember that without our creativity, AI wouldn't have anything to work with.

Think of AI like a friend who helps brainstorm and refine your ideas. Tools such as Chat GPT and Claude can help you make entire drafts of new content. This feels like having a creative buddy who's always ready to help. It's not only about creating—AI can also help you grow and connect with more people.

Imagine creating a digital version of yourself with AI. Platforms like Delphi.ai let you do this by emulating your voice and knowledge. This helps you not only create but also scale your work, making it easier to share with others. My experience with Delphi.ai shows how powerful this can become.

Lots of money goes into AI technologies and platforms like OpenAI and Google. But remember, their value comes from us creators! Even if we don't always feel valued, it's important to leverage technology based on our shared knowledge. Doing this helps us reclaim our spot in the value chain.

AI remixes our ideas, but it doesn't innovate from scratch. Humans dream, hope, and connect emotionally. That's what makes us irreplaceable. When we use AI to improve and connect ideas, it helps make our work understandable and relatable to others.

I'm excited by what AI can do, but it's the human connection that matters most. Using AI tools like Chat GPT and Claude allows us to reach people across the globe. It’s about enhancing our ideas to connect in ways that suit everyone. Your creativity leads the way in this AI-driven world.

The future isn't about AI replacing humans. It's about both working together. Embrace what excites you and share your ideas with others. With AI, you have tools to expand your impact. Dive into AI and let’s thrive together. Share your thoughts and experiences on how you're using AI. Exciting times are ahead!

Remember, it's AI and humans, hand-in-hand, making a difference in the world. Until next time, keep creating and exploring new ways to expand your reach!

• Matt Wolfe: How AI Will Transform Your Content Marketing!
• Using AI for Effortless Content Creation with Joe Fier

• What if you could have a FREE personal mentor on-demand?! With Joe's Hustle & Flowchart AI clone, you can tap into the knowledge from over 600 episodes any time! Whether...

This episode of Hustle and Flowchart takes us on an exciting journey with Gregory Shephard, a successful entrepreneur and investor. Gregory shares his experiences from starting and investing in multiple businesses, offering listeners practical advice about the startup world. He discusses his new book, "The Startup Lifecycle," explaining the common missteps founders make and how to avoid them. Gregory is passionate about helping entrepreneurs succeed without skipping essential steps.

Gregory outlines the critical phases of a startup, from envisioning the company's purpose to exiting the business successfully. In these conversations, he mentions compelling statistics, like the fact that almost half of startups fail within their first year. With these insights, Gregory aims to guide founders through early pitfalls that can lead to failure.

Meeting Gregory Shephard again was a pleasure. As a fellow entrepreneur from San Diego, he brings a wealth of knowledge. Having been involved in numerous startups and investments, Gregory offers valuable insights into business growth and sustainability. His enthusiasm for helping founders succeed shines through in his advice and strategies.

Gregory stresses the importance of having a clear vision when starting a business. Without a roadmap, founders can find themselves lost and making rash decisions. He compares this to taking a road trip without a map – you might miss important stops, detours, or gas refuels. Defining your "North Star" helps guide a company through its lifecycle by connecting where you are with where you want to go.

Gregory's book, "The Startup Lifecycle," outlines the stages vital for a startup: Vision, Product, Go-to-Market, Standardization, Optimization, Growth, and Exit. From creating a prototype to commercializing it, Gregory explains the importance of each stage. He emphasizes that standardization, often overlooked, is crucial for maintaining high margins as a startup scales. Gregory introduces concepts like "up and out" and common pitfalls in team management to further illustrate his points.

The conversation covers the "capital trap" where startups overvalue themselves when raising funds. This leads to pressure from investors for returns that might be unrealistic. Founders could face challenges sustaining growth while trying to meet high monetary expectations. Gregory advises achieving profitability early on and maintaining it to avoid these traps. This approach may result in slower growth but fosters sustainability and control.

Gregory shares his personal philosophy on conquering challenges. By venturing on daring quests yearly, he exposes himself to situations he initially thought impossible. Whether wrestling alligators or preparing for a trip to space, Gregory learns persistence and resilience in the face of adversity. These experiences mirror the startup journey, where mental strength plays a significant role in overcoming business obstacles.

• Grab your copy of "The Startup Lifecycle" here
• See the latest from Gregory on his website
• LinkedIn
• Facebook
• Instagram

This episode with Gregory Shephard...

In this gripping episode of Hustle and Flowchart, we delve into the remarkable journey of Eric Jorgenson, the mastermind behind "The Almanac of Naval Ravikant." Eric, now the CEO of Scribe Media, shares an extraordinary tale of revival from chaos, rebuilding trust and redefining how books are crafted and self-made authors are created. If you've ever considered writing a book or are intrigued by pathways to personal and professional transformation, this episode is a goldmine. Buckle up as we explore Eric's world, where opportunities are seized, and traditional publishing norms are shattered, all while drawing inspiration from the wisdom of Naval Ravikant.

Eric Jorgenson serves as CEO of Scribe Media, where he juggles different projects. He admits that managing these tasks is challenging but focuses on synergies rather than distractions. Opportunity well handled, he says, leads to more opportunity.

Scribe Media was co-founded by Tucker Max and Zach Obront. Tucker, a well-known author, originally used his talents to help others navigate the confusing publishing world. Scribe grew rapidly, but when the original founders left, mismanagement led to bankruptcy. Eric, having published his first book with Scribe, found himself caught up in the chaos. He felt a responsibility to save the company that helped him so much.

Eric emphasizes that trust can't be asked for, only earned. The focus for Scribe is now to do stellar work and let that speak for itself. He believes in rebuilding trust by doing what you say you will do, consistently. This isn't about asking for trust, but rather earning it through actions and reliability.

Scribe Media takes the opposite approach of traditional publishing. Unlike big publishers that offer advances and retain most rights and royalties, Scribe charges a flat rate. Authors make the creative decisions, keep all rights, and retain all royalties. This means more royalties for the author in the long run, especially if you sell many books, like David Goggins. Instead of relying on media appearances, books now are sold primarily on platforms like Amazon, highlighting the significance of authors owning their work.

A book can act as a powerful marketing tool. It allows professionals to demonstrate their expertise and connect with potential clients. For instance, Paul Franco used his book to reach a niche audience, leading directly to business opportunities. A well-written book goes beyond mere sales. It offers credibility and establishes authority.

AI can assist in the initial stages of writing but isn't perfect for long-form prose. Scribe helps authors by interviewing them, pulling out stories and key points to capture the book’s essence. While AI can pose as a support tool, Eric believes that human touch is still pivotal for creating truly impactful content. AI offers options like proofreading and brainstorming and can accelerate the drafting process.

Naval's perspectives deeply influence Eric. He appreciates Naval’s view that happiness is a skill rather than just a choice. Eric has adopted these nuggets into his daily life, like appreciating simple moments. However, he also notes areas where he might diverge from Naval, particularly around the responsibilities we hold towards other people's happiness.

Eric has held multiple titles, including author and investor, and has learned to focus on being continuously “in motion.” There’s no finish line, only a state of being content and peaceful amidst activity. He wishes to become better at balancing productivity and peace, aiming for a fulfilling life journey rather than just reaching a destination.

In this episode,

Dr. Alok Trivedi, known as Dr. Rewire, joined me for an insightful conversation that shifted the way we view traditional healthcare and approaches to personal development. His journey from a busy clinic to a unique focus on rewiring the brain emphasizes how our thoughts influence our health, success, and overall well-being. Dr. Trivedi shared inspiring stories, including his personal challenges and how he overcame them by adjusting his mindset and behavioral patterns.

Dr. Trivedi began his career in personal training, physical therapy, and chiropractic school. Although he achieved success, he realized that many of his patients' problems stemmed from their emotions and beliefs. When a recurring patient showed pain relief by simply answering questions about stressors in his life, Dr. Trivedi found his new passion. He transitions from physical treatment to helping clients rewire their brains to address their challenges.

Dr. Trivedi argues that the brain holds the key to controlling physical health. By addressing emotional and mental hurdles, he believes individuals can solve physical pains and achieve personal success. Through his method known as rewiring, Dr. Trivedi shows how changing thought patterns can lead to better health and life situations. One of his clients, an Emmy-winning friend, found renewed success and happiness through Dr. Trivedi's system.

Dr. Trivedi criticizes traditional goal setting, such as SMART goals, for failing to consider the brain's natural processes. He explains that ambitious goals often lead to stress and dissatisfaction. By focusing on smaller, manageable improvements, individuals avoid the neurological rollercoaster of dopamine spikes and crashes. Instead of setting goals that "scare you," Dr. Trivedi promotes sustainable, incremental progress.

Achieving health and well-being requires more than just physical fitness. Dr. Trivedi emphasizes the importance of five pillars: mind, body, diet, sleep, and wealth. Starting with mental clarity and a balanced diet leads to restful sleep and physical health, ultimately culminating in true wealth—both financial and emotional. He stresses the need to manage stress and maintain balance to prevent chronic health issues.

Understanding personal genetics plays a crucial role in optimizing health. Dr. Trivedi offers a Brain DNA test that analyzes an individual's genetic predispositions to various neurotransmitters. This personalized approach helps tailor lifestyle and dietary choices to one's unique genetic code, leading to better health and happiness.

• Links:
• Brain DNA Test
• Dr. Rewire Website
• Dr. Rewire Instagram

Dr. Trivedi advocates for a structured daily routine to ensure a balance between work, personal wellness, and family. Break the day into manageable parts, starting with self-care (mindfulness, exercise), work, family time, and finally, some personal downtime. This routine helps regulate stress levels and keeps the mind focused and calm.

In closing, Dr. Trivedi imparts that rewiring the brain is a viable path to personal transformation, allowing us to control emotions, reduce stress, and lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.

• Dr. Paul Savage: Are You A Toxic...