In this podcast episode, Dan Calandro delves into his background and upbringing in finance, tracing their interest in the stock market and financial intricacies back to college. Motivated by a desire to assist middle-class individuals facing financial challenges, they explore the complexity of the financial system and highlight the general lack of knowledge among the public. Dan shares strategies for combating inflation and securing retirement savings are discussed, emphasising the importance of understanding the financial system to maintain personal freedom. {You can hear the full episode on Thursday, May 16th}

Chirene Hughes joins us to delve into their journey from corporate America to entrepreneurship, a transition marked by personal tragedies and the closure of their agency. Motivated by the need to provide for their child and the lack of job opportunities in their small town, Chirene bravely embarked on the path of entrepreneurship despite facing emotional turmoil and financial uncertainty. Chirene shares valuable insights into time management strategies and the challenges of balancing personal and professional life while starting a business. Chirene explores the evolution of the SEO industry and offers advice for entering the digital marketing field, stressing the importance of understanding storytelling and branding. Reflecting on their journey, the speaker shares valuable advice for their younger self and provides an overview of their book, "The Seven Figure Freelancer," and the Freelance Training Academy program, underscoring the significance of mentorship and community in freelancing. Highlights:{04:00} Motivational factors behind entrepreneurship{12:30} The importance of words{17:30} Know your target audience{20:30} The difference between good and bad stories{31:00} Reflections and advice for a younger selfChirene Hughes bio:Chirene Hughes is a dynamic force in the world of marketing and storytelling. Hailing from a small town in South Africa, Chirene is the founder and principal of two Red Crows brand storytelling agencies. With a passion for crafting compelling narratives, Chirene and her team produce an impressive volume of 100,000 words per month, specializing in strategic wording for email marketing, lead nurturing, social media, SEO articles, and social selling. Through their expertise in storytelling, Chirene helps businesses increase their revenues by driving sales through captivating narratives. With a knack for creativity and a love for making things up, Chirene and her team excel at assisting clients in optimizing their blogs, social networking, and overall web traffic. From marketing strategy to copywriting and word wrangling, Chirene navigates the complexities of content creation with finesse, ensuring her client's success in the digital landscape. Through her dedication and expertise, Chirene brings a wallop of happiness to many lips as she continues to shape the future of brand storytelling and marketing strategy.Connect with Chirene:Website: https://www.tworedcrows.co.za Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chirene-hughes

Chirene Hughes joins us to delve into their journey from corporate America to entrepreneurship, a transition marked by personal tragedies and the closure of their agency. Motivated by the need to provide for their child and the lack of job opportunities in their small town, Chirene bravely embarked on the path of entrepreneurship despite facing emotional turmoil and financial uncertainty. Chirene shares valuable insights into time management strategies and the challenges of balancing personal and professional life while starting a business. {You can hear the full episode on May 9th}

In this podcast episode, Michael Fleischner shares their journey from a corporate career to entrepreneurship, highlighting the motivational factors that led to taking the risk of leaving corporate America. Michael discusses time management strategies for juggling multiple responsibilities and offers effective strategies for businesses to reach a larger audience, emphasizing the importance of avoiding common marketing mistakes. Michael reflects on lessons learned in the SEO industry and the challenges of balancing growth with new opportunities. He provides valuable advice for individuals aspiring to enter the digital marketing industry and discusses the role of the Internet in achieving financial freedom and the American dream. Highlights:{03:20} Introduction and personal background of the speaker{09:10} Transition from corporate America to entrepreneurship{12:00} Effective strategies for businesses to reach a larger audience{14:15} Common mistakes companies make when marketing online{16:15} Lessons learned and evolution in the SEO industry{22:30} Advice for individuals wanting to enter the digital marketing industry{25:30} The role of the Internet in achieving financial freedom and the American dream{333:20} Overview of the speaker's book "The Seven Figure Freelancer" and the Freelance Training Academy programMichael Fleischner bio:Michael Fleischner is the Founder & CEO of Big Fin SEO, helping companies look great online through search engine optimization, reputation management, employer branding, and digital strategy. He is an entrepreneur, author, marketing executive, and speaker with 20 years of real-world experience. Michael is the former President of the American Marketing Association of New Jersey and has appeared on the TODAY Show, ABC World News, and other major media. Michael offers advice and management across marketing disciplines, including marketing strategy, automation, digital marketing, brand development, social media, demand generation, search engine optimization, and various marketing practices.Michael graduated from Rutgers College Business School with a marketing degree in 1993. Two years later, he received his master’s in integrated marketing communications from Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism. He then worked in a strategic marketing role for the United States Gypsum Corporation (USG). He later teamed up with the former owner of Evelyn Wood Reading Dynamics to sell programs to students and universities.Michael has held various marketing leadership roles and developed websites, SEO training programs, and internet marketing products. He is also the author of SEO Made Simple, a top-selling search engine optimization guide, Blogging Made Simple, Local Marketing Made Simple, and Public Speaking Made Simple. Connect with Michael:Website: https://bigfinseo.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fleischner IG: https://www.instagram.com/bigfinseo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bigfinseo

In this podcast episode, Michael Fleischner shares their journey from a corporate career to entrepreneurship, highlighting the motivational factors that led to taking the risk of leaving corporate America. Michael discusses time management strategies for juggling multiple responsibilities and offers effective strategies for businesses to reach a larger audience, emphasizing the importance of avoiding common marketing mistakes. Michael reflects on lessons learned in the SEO industry and the challenges of balancing growth with new opportunities. He provides valuable advice for individuals aspiring to enter the digital marketing industry and discusses the role of the Internet in achieving financial freedom and the American dream. {You can hear the full episode on Thursday May 2nd}

In this insightful podcast episode featuring guest Tina Greenbaum, listeners are taken on a journey through Tina's career evolution, from her teaching roots to her current roles as a licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist. She focuses on creating innovative programs like "Tennis to the Max" and "Mastery Under Pressure" to cater to different industries and clientele. Amid personal challenges like divorce and relocation, Tina shares her unwavering commitment to personal growth and pursuing her potential. Tina advocates a holistic success model incorporating skills, strategy, and mindset. She focuses on overcoming limiting beliefs and embracing personal growth. Through discussions on mindfulness, unconscious bias, and data-driven decision-making, listeners gain insights into developing self-awareness, managing challenges, and achieving peak performance in personal and professional endeavors.Highlights:{02:30} Career Evolution{10:30} Biggest lesson learned{14:30} Leadership Traits of People Under Pressure{17:45} Ego Management{22:00} Overcome Roadblocks{28:30} Pursuit of Happiness{36:15} Embrace the inner enemyTina Greenbaum bio:Tina is the founder and CEO of Mastery Under Pressure, LLC, a management coaching program for high-performing executives who must refine and master their interpersonal and inter-departmental skills to excel individually and empower their teams and associates. Tina is also the author of the book Mastery Under Pressure. Additionally, she works with athletes, artists, speakers, and other high achievers who want to be skillful at performing under pressure.Connect with Tina:Website: https://masteryunderpressure.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tinagreenbaum TEDx: https://www.ted.com/talks/tina_greenbaum_befriend_your_inner_enemy

In this insightful podcast episode featuring guest Tina Greenbaum, listeners are taken on a journey through Tina's career evolution, from her teaching roots to her current roles as a licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist. She focuses on creating innovative programs like "Tennis to the Max" and "Mastery Under Pressure" to cater to different industries and clientele. Amid personal challenges like divorce and relocation, Tina shares her unwavering commitment to personal growth and pursuing her potential. Tina advocates a holistic success model incorporating skills, strategy, and mindset. She focuses on overcoming limiting beliefs and embracing personal growth. Through discussions on mindfulness, unconscious bias, and data-driven decision-making, listeners gain insights into developing self-awareness, managing challenges, and achieving peak performance in personal and professional endeavors.{You can hear the full episode on Thursday April 25th}

Sye White shares his remarkable journey from humble beginnings. As he transitions from restaurant management to pursuing his dream of transforming a family homestead into a resort, Sye reflects on the deep-rooted connection to Montana, drawing inspiration from his family's homesteading legacy and Native American heritage. Sye delves into real estate education, offering valuable insights into building equity and developing a portfolio through self-education and strategic investment approaches like dollar-cost averaging. Through engaging anecdotes and lessons learned from the restaurant business, Sye provides practical advice for first-time homebuyers and navigating the ever-evolving real estate market. Sye's personal stories and inspirational narratives serve as a beacon of motivation. They illustrate the transformative power of perseverance, education, and community involvement in achieving one's entrepreneurial aspirations and making a meaningful impact in both business and society.Highlights:{02:00} Career Journey{07:35} Small Town Spirit{11:35} Real Estate Education{29:00} Historical Perspectives on Real Estate Crashes{35:00} Personal Stories and Inspirational NarrativeSye White bio:Sye is a real estate professional from Helena, Mt, who has also helped open several successful restaurants, bars, and hotels. He has received three international awards for the beverage programs he developed and helped Shine a cultural light in his city. He's passionate about nightlife and financial markets investing in real estate and greatly understands these subjects.Connect with Sye:Website: https://syewhite.sites.c21.homes Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sye-white-016960233Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/syewhitesells

Sye White shares his remarkable journey from humble beginnings. As he transitions from restaurant management to pursuing his dream of transforming a family homestead into a resort, Sye reflects on the deep-rooted connection to Montana, drawing inspiration from his family's homesteading legacy and Native American heritage. Sye delves into real estate education, offering valuable insights into building equity and developing a portfolio through self-education and strategic investment approaches like dollar-cost averaging. Through engaging anecdotes and lessons learned from the restaurant business, Sye provides practical advice for first-time homebuyers and navigating the ever-evolving real estate market. Sye's personal stories and inspirational narratives serve as a beacon of motivation. They illustrate the transformative power of perseverance, education, and community involvement in achieving one's entrepreneurial aspirations and making a meaningful impact in both business and society.{You can hear the full episode on Thursday April 18th}

In this insightful podcast episode featuring guest Andrea Bell, listeners are taken on a journey through Andrea's early interest in business, which stemmed from a young age and led her to pursue a career in accounting due to its flexibility and alignment with her passion for helping businesses manage taxes and finances. Andrea shares valuable insights into tax-saving strategies for businesses and individuals, including the significance of real estate investments for long-term wealth building. Andrea addresses common misconceptions about tax planning and emphasizes the importance of proactive strategies for financial success at all income levels. Additionally, Andrea discusses the vital role of good bookkeeping in avoiding tax surprises and financial difficulties, drawing from her experiences of balancing business and family life. The episode offers practical advice on overcoming the challenges entrepreneurs face. It encourages listeners to pursue entrepreneurial dreams by building confidence, seeking mentorship, and embracing strategic planning for time and financial freedom. Andrea also shares valuable tips for aspiring accountants and entrepreneurs looking to start their accounting firms, emphasizing the importance of education, mentorship, and niche services. Andrea inspires listeners to embrace their unique paths to success and avoid comparison, focusing on incremental progress and staying true to personal aspirations.Highlights:{02:15} Early Interest in Business{04:30} Journey into Accounting{06:20} Tax Strategies for Success{09:00} Tax Strategies for Different Income Levels{15:00} Balancing Business and Family{22:10} Overcoming Challenges{27:45} Pursuing the American DreamAndrea Bell bio:Andrea Bell is the founder and CEO of Profitability, a full-service accounting firm dedicated to helping businesses scale and grow while achieving time and financial freedom. With over 20 years of experience in accounting, Andrea has assisted hundreds of businesses in scaling effectively and saving millions of dollars in taxes. Her passion for entrepreneurship led her to establish Thrive, a women's business community that supports female entrepreneurs in elevating their businesses to new heights while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.As a fun-loving mom of three beautiful children and a devoted wife, Andrea easily balances her roles as a foodie, DIY enthusiast, and business owner. In addition to her expertise in accounting, Andrea is a seasoned consultant, coach, author, and speaker. She is committed to empowering forward-thinking business owners to supercharge their businesses and achieve unprecedented profits. If you're ready to take your business to the next level and enjoy the fruits of your labor, Andrea and the team at Profitability are here to help you succeed.Connect with Andrea:Website: https://profitabilityco.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-bell-10b86987

In this insightful podcast episode featuring guest Andrea Bell, listeners are taken on a journey through Andrea's early interest in business, which stemmed from a young age and led her to pursue a career in accounting due to its flexibility and alignment with her passion for helping businesses manage taxes and finances. Andrea shares valuable insights into tax-saving strategies for businesses and individuals, including the significance of real estate investments for long-term wealth building. Andrea addresses common misconceptions about tax planning and emphasizes the importance of proactive strategies for financial success at all income levels. Additionally, Andrea discusses the vital role of good bookkeeping in avoiding tax surprises and financial difficulties, drawing from her experiences of balancing business and family life. The episode offers practical advice on overcoming the challenges entrepreneurs face. It encourages listeners to pursue entrepreneurial dreams by building confidence, seeking mentorship, and embracing strategic planning for time and financial freedom. Andrea also shares valuable tips for aspiring accountants and entrepreneurs looking to start their accounting firms, emphasizing the importance of education, mentorship, and niche services. Andrea inspires listeners to embrace their unique paths to success and avoid comparison, focusing on incremental progress and staying true to personal aspirations.{You can hear the full episode on Thursday April 11th}

In today’s episode, Catherine Kontos, founder of RetreatBoss, shares her journey of founding and growing her renowned retreat planning company. From her early motivations to her greatest lessons learned, Catherine offers valuable insights into the transformative power of retreats. She delves into her own experiences and offers advice for those seeking more confidence and battling pessimistic mindsets. Throughout the conversation, Catherine's passion for helping others create unforgettable and life-changing experiences shines through, showcasing RetreatBoss as a beacon of excellence in the retreat industry.Highlights:{03:20} Catherine’s journey{09:00} Catherin’s motivation{13:00} Greatest lessons learned.{15:30} Advice for people who need more confidence.{22:00} The pessimist mindset{34:45} The battle of the mindCatherine Kontos bio:Catherine Kontos is the founder of RetreatBoss, a renowned retreat planning company. With a steadfast belief in the transformative power of retreats, Catherine launched RetreatBoss in 2012 with the vision of guiding clients through unforgettable and life-changing experiences. Over the past decade, RetreatBoss has facilitated thousands of guests on memorable and transformative journeys. Today, Catherine's company is recognized as an award-winning leader in the retreat industry, serving as a go-to reference for the retreat community.Connect with Catherine:Website: https://retreatboss.com https://catherinekontos.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherine-kontos-60955662

In today’s episode, Catherine Kontos, founder of RetreatBoss, shares her journey of founding and growing her renowned retreat planning company. From her early motivations to her greatest lessons learned, Catherine offers valuable insights into the transformative power of retreats. She delves into her own experiences and offers advice for those seeking more confidence and battling pessimistic mindsets. Throughout the conversation, Catherine's passion for helping others create unforgettable and life-changing experiences shines through, showcasing RetreatBoss as a beacon of excellence in the retreat industry. {You can hear the full episode on Thursday, April 4th}

Amanda Johnson joins us for this captivating podcast episode. As the CEO and founder of True to Intention and the visionary behind Saved by Story Publishing, Amanda draws on her 20 years of experience to explore the profound impact of storytelling on trauma resolution and human connection. Amanda shares insights on leveraging stories for maximum impact, unraveling the power of narrative medicine. Delve into the compelling narrative of the American Dream as Amanda, also known as the story alchemist, empowers a generation to challenge disempowerment with curiosity and love. With a unique blend of facilitation, storytelling, and strategic guidance, Amanda partners with emerging leaders to become unwavering change agents in their families, communities, and industries.  Highlights:{02:45} Amanda’s journey{11:45} We use stories to resolve our trauma and connect with people.{20:30} How to make your story have maximum impact.{26:45} The Story of the American Dream Amanda Johnson bio:Amanda is the CEO and founder of True to Intention, and Co. is the founder of Saved by Story Publishing. After 20 years of facilitating transformative experiences through story and literacy writing and narrative medicine, Amanda Johnson, a.k.a. the story article, is determined to empower a generation that challenges disempowerment with curiosity and love. as a speaker.She is a facilitator, storyteller, strategist, guide, and Ally. She partners with emerging leaders to become uncompromising agents of change—their families, communities, and industries. Through her two businesses, true to intention and say by the story, she midwives, paradigm, changing brands, content, and more thought leaders and storytellers into the world with story, healing quests, and message manifesting retreats from inspiration to impact. She and her team helped inspire souls, dissolve lives, and reorganize their sacred material. True to the intention with every piece of content they craft. Connect with Amanda:Website: https://savedbystory.house https://truetointention.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandajohnson4

Amanda Johnson joins us for this captivating podcast episode. As the CEO and founder of True to Intention and the visionary behind Saved by Story Publishing, Amanda draws on her 20 years of experience to explore the profound impact of storytelling on trauma resolution and human connection. Amanda shares insights on leveraging stories for maximum impact, unraveling the power of narrative medicine. Delve into the compelling narrative of the American Dream as Amanda, also known as the story alchemist, empowers a generation to challenge disempowerment with curiosity and love. With a unique blend of facilitation, storytelling, and strategic guidance, Amanda partners with emerging leaders to become unwavering change agents in their families, communities, and industries. {You can hear the full episode Thursday March 28th}

Dive into the world of sales and entrepreneurship with Brian McDonald in this engaging podcast episode. With over 23 years of experience in new revenue growth, Brian shares insights from his journey, emphasizing the importance of a client-centric sales strategy. Join the conversation as Brian dispels misconceptions about sales, stressing the need to understand customers' wants for effective business growth. Brian, a partner at Purpose Growth, a coaching and consulting firm, specializes in helping entrepreneurs build sales systems that predictably boost revenue. Uncover the secrets to success as Brian discusses the right mindset and addresses the fear of success. Highlights:{03:10} Brian's journey{06:15} Misconceptions about sales{11:30} You need to know what your customers want.{16:00} Increasing revenue.{19:00} Marketing vs. making a better product.[29:30} Getting the right mindset.{32:30} The fear of successBryan McDonald bio:Brian has spent his 23-plus-year career in new revenue growth and focused on a client-centric sales strategy that created a track record for success by serving instead of selling people, graduating from Penn State University in 2001.Brian went into sales in a corporate position and quickly realized that the roles he could be entrepreneurial in were the ones he wanted and built. He's a partner at Purpose Growth, a coaching and consulting firm that serves entrepreneurs with ambitious yearly or multi-year revenue goals.He helps entrepreneurs build sales systems that predictably grow revenue, as well as communication practices and strategies that are superior to traditional sales tactics or practices. He has served entrepreneurs by helping them go from as little as AS75K in revenue to $1,000,000 plus in 6 to 18 months, using the strategies, tactics, mindsets, and frameworks he and his partners have put together. Brian also helps run an economic development nonprofit called the Fox Valley Entrepreneurship Center. As the board president, the FVC serves business owners in the Fox Valley region of Chicago that are past. Startup base and need to accelerate.They're focused on growing the revenue of businesses and adding jobs and opportunities in the communities that businesses are in.Connect with Brian:Website: https://www.onpurposegrowth.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mcdonaldbryan

Dive into the world of sales and entrepreneurship with Brian McDonald in this engaging podcast episode. With over 23 years of experience in new revenue growth, Brian shares insights from his journey, emphasizing the importance of a client-centric sales strategy. Join the conversation as Brian dispels misconceptions about sales, stressing the need to understand customers' wants for effective business growth. Brian, a partner at Purpose Growth, a coaching and consulting firm, specializes in helping entrepreneurs build sales systems that predictably boost revenue. Uncover the secrets to success as Brian discusses the right mindset and addresses the fear of success. {You can hear the full Episode on Thursday, March 21st}

Haseena, a seasoned author, trainer, speaker, and certified coach, shares her remarkable 30-year journey in leadership and management. Discover the driving forces behind Haseena's motivation and her profound insights into finding one's purpose. With Faith, Hope, and Spirit LLC, her business dedicated to helping others turn dreams into reality, Haseena provides valuable advice for those seeking their purpose. She emphasizes the impact of faith on one's inner voice. Haseena delves into her most significant life lessons and offers heartfelt advice to her younger self. As the founder and executive director of Ava's Pathways, a nonprofit supporting women facing life's adversities, Haseena's wisdom shines through in her commitment to empowering others. Tune in for a soul-nourishing conversation on growth, development, communication, leadership, and the pursuit of happiness.Highlights:{03:00} Haseena’s Journey{06:00} What motivates Haseena?{08:15} Advice for others who want to find their purpose.{20:00} How faith influences your inner voice.{24:45} Biggest lesson learned.{31:30} Advice for your younger self{38:15} Pursuing HappinessHaseena Shaheed-Jackson bio:Haseena is an author, trainer, speaker, and certified coach. She has spent 30 years in positions of leadership and management, where she developed the skill of helping others make the invisible visible and turn their dreams into real-world possibilities through her business—Faith, Hope, and Spirit LLC. Haseena offers training, coaching, and speaking in growth, development, communication, and leadership. She's also the founder and executive director of Ava's Pathways, which is a nonprofit organization for women supporting women who face traumas and adversities of life. She also authored three books: Created to Soar, Messages from the Spirit, and Reflections. She says we should not allow anyone or anything to place us in a corner to be forgotten and cause us to believe we are insignificant.Connect with Haseena:Website: https://hsjackson.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haseena-shaheed-jackson-273b9325/overlay/contact-info

Haseena, a seasoned author, trainer, speaker, and certified coach, shares her remarkable 30-year journey in leadership and management. Discover the driving forces behind Haseena's motivation and her profound insights into finding one's purpose. With Faith, Hope, and Spirit LLC, her business dedicated to helping others turn dreams into reality, Haseena provides valuable advice for those seeking their purpose. She emphasizes the impact of faith on one's inner voice. Haseena delves into her most significant life lessons and offers heartfelt advice to her younger self. As the founder and executive director of Ava's Pathways, a nonprofit supporting women facing life's adversities, Haseena's wisdom shines through in her commitment to empowering others. Tune in for a soul-nourishing conversation on growth, development, communication, leadership, and the pursuit of happiness.{You can hear the full episode on March 14th}

Kim Stuck, the founder and CEO of ALLAY Consulting, joins us for a riveting exploration of the cannabis industry and the American Dream in this eye-opening podcast episode. Kim takes listeners through her experiences, drawing on her role as the nation's first cannabis and hemp specialist for a major metropolitan public health authority in Denver. Dispelling myths and revealing truths about the cannabis industry, she shares invaluable lessons learned from the green rush in Colorado. She delves into the intricate business dynamics of the cannabis world. As a compliance strategy expert, Kim addresses the challenges businesses face in navigating evolving regulations and safety mandates. The episode unfolds with Kim offering insightful advice for those venturing into the cannabis realm. With her unique background, including certifications as a Quality Auditor and Professional in Food Safety and active involvement in industry advisory boards, Kim brings a wealth of expertise to this illuminating conversation about the intersection of cannabis, compliance, and the pursuit of the American Dream.Highlights:{03:15} Kim’s journey{06:30} Myths and truths about the Cannabis industry{10:30} Lessons learned from the green rush of Colorado{14:00} The Business of Cannabis{20:45} The biggest challenge{22:30} Advice for people entering the Cannabis world{29:30} The American Dream and the Green RushKim Stuck bio:Kim is the founder and CEO of ALLAY Consulting, a compliance strategy and services provider serving the hemp, cannabis, and psychedelic industries nationwide. She brings a regulator's keen eye and wide-reaching knowledge of evolving compliance and safety mandates to support tightly regulated businesses. Kim Stuck previously held a pioneering role as the nation's first cannabis and hemp specialist for a major metropolitan public health authority during her tenure with the City of Denver, home to hundreds of cannabis businesses. She worked as an investigator, covering cultivation, manufacturing, and retail. Their duties included facility inspections, conducting investigations into improper pesticide use and worker safety, trading regulations, instituting recalls, and public outreach. She holds numerous certifications, such as Certified Quality Auditor and Certified Professional in Food Safety. In addition to serving on several industry advisory boards, she's a TEDx speaker and a South by Southwest Speaker, and she has been a member of ASTM International's Cannabis Standards Committee since its 2017 inception. And she's also the vice chair of the GMP Standards Subcommittee. Connect with Kim:Website: https://allayconsulting.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-stuck-cp-fs-cqa-420a257a