View From The Top

"You’re not controlling enough. I don’t mean controlling other people–I mean controlling yourself.” We confront the tension between strength and vulnerability, revealing how finding our identity can pave the way to more fulfilling relationships. If you want to be a better man who takes control of his life in a way that helps others, this episode is for you. Key Takeaways: Is it bad to be an alpha male? Is it bad to NOT be an alpha male?Where fulfillment and success divideHow telling the truth can change your relationships and your businessDo you always need to be accomplishing something?Explore the delicate dance between control and surrender in leadership from a Christian perspective. Wally and I dissect the societal myths surrounding alpha males, contrasting them with faith-based interpretations that value humility and a servant's heart. By sharing our personal journeys, we shed light on the struggle of seeking external validation versus finding genuine fulfillment. With the support of the ISI Brotherhood, we highlight how a community can be a catalyst for transformation, encouraging alpha males to address confidence issues and break free from self-sabotaging habits.Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://isibrotherhood.com/communityWhat Do I Want Challenge: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/whatdoiwantchallengeConnect with Big A and Wally:View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.comThe ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletterBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

What if success doesn't make you happy? There is an often unspoken challenge of feeling bored and unfulfilled despite achieving your entrepreneurial dreams. Through personal stories and insights from Mark Nichols, a seasoned Chick-fil-A owner-operator with over 33 years under his belt, we explore what to do with boredom and burnout.Key Takeaways:How do you get the best payoffs while bored?How do you move forward when you're bored? The path to get successful and boredWays to get out of the boredom mindset“When you obtain that goal you've been working towards for years, that doesn’t scratch the itch like you thought it was going to.” If you're successful and thought you'd be happy by now, here what these guys in their sixties with years of experience have to say about pursuing happiness and finding real fulfillment in your life. Through candid conversations, we emphasize that taking a step back to adjust your "why" is not only okay but essential for achieving long-term fulfillment. Learn how to use breaks as a tool for gaining clarity and rejuvenating your passion for both work and life.Connect with Mark Nichols by joining the ISI Community:Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://isibrotherhood.com/communityConnect with Big A and Wally:View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.comThe ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletterBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

“We’re all just one bad decision away from ruining our lives.” What has led you down this path, and where do you go from here? As entrepreneurs and business owners, there is a level of disconnection that we have with our wives because oftentimes they don't get our business or what we're going through. They don't understand us... et cetera, et cetera, right? The lies and excuses get us to a point of no return. If you're about to have an affair or are in the thick of one now, this episode will help you discover what pitfalls to watch out for and how to move forward. We discuss everything from emotional intimacy to sexual frustrations and how if we're not proactive, we will make a bad decision that was never intended in the first place. Key Takeaways:Good intentions, safeguards, and bad decisions3 core problems and how to prevent themIf you're deep in pornographyHow to protect the sanctity of your marriageMarriage is a journey filled with love, endless learning, and even temptations. We share candid stories of what happened in our own marriages to push us to record an episode like this. Whether it’s about learning to express personal needs or the subtle ways temptation sneaks in, we aim to reassure and guide you through the complexities of sustaining a strong marriage.Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://isibrotherhood.com/communityConnect with Big A and Wally:View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.comThe ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletterBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

What if your distractions are sabotaging your closest relationships? Open your eyes to the hidden costs of the digital age with Derek Champagne, who joins us to discuss the urgent issue of loneliness and the power of meaningful human connections. Derek brings a fresh perspective with engaging stories and powerful metaphors, challenging us to rethink our approach to abundance and sharing in our daily lives.What distractions are doing to our bodies and relationshipsAre you emotionally unavailable for your family? Why fixing isolation is a LEADERSHIP conversationHow men of faith can strive for an abundant life There is an alarming rise of loneliness especially among young adults, and its severe health implications are enough for us as leaders to bring human connection back. Listen in to hear how we can have a role in breaking isolation. By prioritizing relationships and removing unnecessary interruptions, you can create a life filled with success and significance. Join us as we uncover the courage required to break free from the digital chains and craft a masterpiece of meaningful connections in your life.Resources:3 Amigos Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=trMOanQQIJ8Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://isibrotherhood.com/communityLinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/groupThe ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletterConnect with Derek Champagne:Derek's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theartistevolution/Connect with Big A and Wally:Website: https://isibrotherhood.comBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

There is an abundance of mastermind groups out there–which one is right for YOU? Today we're discussing how to tap into a powerhouse of knowledge and support to transform your business journey. We'll unravel the various decisions you must make before choosing the ideal mastermind group for you. We kick off with personal tales of our own initial skepticism about mastermind groups, revealing how vulnerability and transparency can become unexpected allies in your success story. Listen as we explore the criteria for selecting the most fitting peer advisory group, whether you're seeking a business-centric circle, a holistic growth experience, or a balance of both. Key Takeaways:Foundational criteria of different types of mastermindsQuestions to ask yourself when choosing a mastermind groupTypes and categories of masterminds and peer advisory groupsDownloadable guide with categorized groups, links, and moreNavigating the business landscape alone can feel like being adrift in uncharted waters. Reflecting on our own experiences, we’ve faced the challenges of entrepreneurship without mentorship, missing out on the invaluable guidance that peer advisory groups provide. Listen as we dissect the overwhelming plethora of options out there and arm you with the tools to make decisions that will enhance accountability and drive your progress forward.Mastermind Group Guide: https://isibrotherhood.com/whichoneIron Sharpens Iron Community: https://isibrotherhood.com/communityConnect with Big A and Wally:View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.comThe ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletterBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

"Without vision, the people perish." Ever wonder why some businesses end up flushed down the drain? We discuss how to avoid the most common traps entrepreneurs find themselves in that often lead to dead-end companies with no way to scale or grow. We lay out the ways of maintaining a consistent vision and a direction in your business and how that lays the groundwork for passionate and talented employees that keep the business running smoothly. If you're ready to change these 3 things, your company will flourish. Learn how to keep your team aligned and motivated, ensuring everyone is clear about the destination and the route to get there.Key Takeaways:Watch out for these traps that lead to a failed businessHow to delegate to your team wisely What's a Chief Reminding Officer? #1 Reason you're not going to scale your businessThrough examples like Chick-fil-A's success, we highlight why identifying where your time is best spent can amplify your impact. Discover how understanding your customers and adapting to market trends can significantly elevate your business, keeping you relevant in today’s ever-evolving marketplace. Tune in for a treasure trove of insights to help you minimize the risk of failing.Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://isibrotherhood.com/communityLinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/groupResources:"Traction" by Gino Wickman"The E-Myth Revisited" by Michael GerberConnect with Big A and Wally:View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.comThe ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletterBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

Should you turn your hobby into a business? Jim Cockrum joins us on today's episode to give us a fresh, Biblical perspective on whether or not you should follow your passion–and his countercultural answer will probably surprise you! Jim is convinced that the key to business success is explicitly much easier than you think, although it might ruffle some feathers. Hint: It's not about whether your passionate about your business or not. Key Takeaways:Why you're asking the wrong questionHow to decide on turning your hobby into a business or notRethink the role of passion in your professional lifeThe PROVEN way to find fulfillment and success in businessJoin us for an enlightening session as we explore a countercultural way of doing business with our guest, Jim Cockrum, who wrote Silent Sales Machine 9.0. He provides a wealth of wisdom on navigating this transformative journey from hobby to business (or not?) in order to be successful. Our conversation boldly questions conventional ways of creating a business idea, proposing that true fulfillment in business emerges from a much different angle than the world comes at it. Through compelling stories and real-life examples, we share how passion often follows one key idea which Jim reveals in today's episode.In the final chapter of our discussion, we challenge you to rethink the role of passion in your professional lives. Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://isibrotherhood.com/communityLinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/groupConnect with Jim Cockrum:Jim's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimcockrum/Jim's Free Business Owners Community: https://silentjim.comSilent Sales Machine 9.0 Book: https://www.amazon.com/Silent-Sales-Machine-9-0-Cockrum/dp/0692516603Connect with Big A and Wally:View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.comThe ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletterBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

"Most people are looking to cut–how can we make just a little money? It's all about the bottom line." Are you running yourself into the ground every day to make things work? Most business guys are working overtime to make the extra dollar and 10x their financial situation by the end of the year. Some are overworked just to make ends meet. How can these guys 10x their lives? How did Big A succeed in having several successful businesses by the age of 50? Today's episode is all about making the most of your life–and how to do it when you're in the trenches. Key Takeaways:The paradox of rest and growth3 ways that seem counterintuitive to making your life betterDoes less really equal more? How and why should we value rest when we're already burned out?These counterintuitive strategies aren’t just business tips; they’re life-changing methods to enhance personal satisfaction and family life. We challenge the conventional 10X growth mindset, urging you to aim for holistic improvement as a businessman, husband, and father.By prioritizing what truly matters and minimizing distractions, you can achieve a deeper impact. Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://isibrotherhood.com/communityLinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/groupConnect with Big A and Wally:View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.comThe ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletterBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

"You’re okay to go bankrupt for the sake of helping somebody?" For Tony, our mystery operations manager, the answer is, unfortunately, yes. Tony is waging war against himself in this episode of THE FORGE. His employees aren't showing up for work, his "compassion" is running the show, and his customers are suffering for it.How can he fire people he wants to help? Isn't compassion worth the cost of quality control? Him and the business he works for is in a cycle of indecision and conflict avoidance because Tony desires to help guys in rough situations and provide them with a job... but what happens when these guys don't show up? Key Takeaways:The tragic cost of avoiding conflictHow to fire people that don't align with your valuesWhy your business' mission is critical to everyone's successWhat compassion REALLY looks like for employees who don't show upWe tackle the complexities of aligning personal preferences and skills with job responsibilities, especially within family-owned businesses. This episode is packed with practical advice on decision-making, personal growth, and the power of open communication, all aiming to help you overcome procrastination and conflict avoidance to achieve a fulfilling and balanced life.Join the Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://isibrotherhood.com/communityConnect with Anthony Witt: witthouse.com or anthonywitt.comAnthony Witt is a professional licensed counselor and a business owner with a deep understanding of how entrepreneurship impacts personal health and those around them. Having bought, sold, and started multiple businesses, he has gained valuableexperience at the intersection of personal health and business. His belief that "a healthy business owner creates a healthy business" underscores his approach to helping entrepreneurs thrive.Connect with Bret Barnhart:Barnhartexcavating.comBret’s Calendar LinkBret’s LinkedinBret Barnhart, Jr. is the fourth generation in his family to start his own excavation company. He began Bret Barnhart Excavating (BBE) in 2002 with $1,500, a single backhoe and truck, and a trailer. Since then, BBE has grown to an entire fleet of heavy machinery and trucks, averages just under 20 employees, and grosses $4mil annually. Being specialized, along with having a personal mentor and joining a mastermind, has helped shape not only Bret's company but also himself as well. Bret and his wife Crystal have been married for 16 years and have two children, Cole and Adelyn.Connect with Big A and Wally:View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/What Do I Want Challenge: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/whatdoiwantchallenge

Do you have what it takes to be a solopreneur? Distractions in this day and age can derail your progress more than ever, and if you aren't practicing the right traits, you'll soon get burned out. So how do you do maintain a successful business as a solopreneur?If you've ever wondered what is truly necessary to make it successfully as a solopreneur, take it from two guys who scaled their companies from the ground up to multi-million dollar companies: these four must-have traits need to be at the top of your list.Key Takeaways:Why businesses are much harder to maintain than ever before4 must-have traits solopreneurs possess in order to succeedHow to maintain self discipline in your daily lifeGrow a successful business that scales with these main tipsDrawing wisdom from our mastermind group, we highlight the value of setting boundaries and prioritizing family time. Sometimes, stepping back to take care of your health and relationships can actually propel you forward faster. We'll also show you how a strong support network can keep you on track and help maintain your focus.Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://isibrotherhood.com/communityLinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/groupConnect with Big A and Wally:View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.comThe ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletterBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

“If you want time and freedom, you have to lead others to get there.” Seth Buechley joins us to define the crux of business failure and crappy leadership. There is truth that you can faster alone, but you can go farther together. Today we talk about practical positives to delegating and how to delegate WELL. We need to create systems and processes, define specific Key Result Areas for our employees, and cultivate a mindset that serves the success of everyone. We cannot scale without empowering our people well. How do successful businesses scale? Long term benefits of entrusting tasks to capable team membersHow to implement KRAs wellRecipes for burnout and failureDiscover how effective delegation can prevent burnout and transform your business from merely surviving to truly thriving. For solopreneurs and small business owners, we address the tricky balance between managing revenue growth and navigating the risks of hiring and delegation, sharing personal strategies and anecdotes for transitioning to effective leadership and management.Finally, we delve into building a business that operates independently of its founder. Drawing on principles from John Warrillow's "Built to Sell," we discuss structuring your business with the potential for future sale in mind, even if selling isn't your immediate goal. Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/communityLinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/groupConnect with Seth Buechley:Seth's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-buechley/Seth Buechley is a serial entrepreneur and business founder who has achieved several multi-million dollar exits. He is the host of the Business Done Right Podcast, which seeks to help faith-driven entrepreneurs build valuable businesses. His book, "Ambition: Leading with Gratitude," was written as a leadership manifesto to help driven people understand why they struggle to find satisfaction and what they can do about it.Connect with Big A and Wally:View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climbBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

Do you know how to celebrate? On our 100th episode, we share transformative stories about significant financial windfalls that taught us the power of celebration. Discover why celebrating your wins, big or small, can skyrocket your motivation and satisfaction in both business and personal life. Raised to remain humble and private, we initially found it challenging to share our successes openly. However, joining communities like Iron Sharpens Iron (ISI) helped us embrace a culture of celebration and transparency that spurred on us to true success. Key Takeaways:The best spaces to share your wins in business–and how it's hard to findWhy it's important to celebrate your wins in businessIdeas and tips on how to celebrate wellThe profound influence of giving back through personal gesturesWe delve into how supportive environments can uplift each other, making it easier to share even smaller, meaningful victories. Reflecting on cultural norms and personal upbringing, we discuss how shifting our mindset about celebration can positively impact our overall happiness.From repairing strained relationships to achieving business milestones, celebrating wins isn't just about the big moments. We explore practical ways to commemorate your successes and promote a generous attitude of giving back through personal gestures and charitable contributions.Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/communityLinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/groupConnect with Big A and Wally:View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climbBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

"You've been selling to the kitchen table, and you need to be selling to the board room." When the real estate market came to a grinding halt during the COVID-19 pandemic, Bobby, a seasoned real estate developer, faced unprecedented challenges. Listen to his raw and emotional recount of navigating through financial turmoil, making tough decisions like laying off a lot of his staff, and the immense weight of responsibility he felt for his employees and their families. Bobby's story isn't just about a business struggle; it's a heartfelt journey of resilience and leadership in the face of adversity.Key Takeaways:How COVID-19 took hotel occupancy from 80% to less than 10% and what Bobby did about itThe best way to approach a "Black Swan" business catastropheHow do you build relationships with the right market segment of investors? Bobby needs to go BIG on selling to larger investors than he's ever sold to beforeDespite exhausting initial investor funds, Bobby underscores the importance of maintaining momentum and refining strategies to attract private equity investors. He shares the significance of building a robust investor base and the challenges of transitioning from small to larger investors, all while staying true to mission-driven goals.Get valuable insights on the delicate balance between mission and profit, the art of crafting a compelling elevator pitch, and the nuances of investor relations in this episode of THE FORGE. Join the Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/communityConnect with Anthony Witt: witthouse.com or anthonywitt.comAnthony Witt is a professional licensed counselor and a business owner with a deep understanding of how entrepreneurship impacts personal health and those around them. Having bought, sold, and started multiple businesses, he has gained valuableexperience at the intersection of personal health and business. His belief that "a healthy business owner creates a healthy business" underscores his approach to helping entrepreneurs thrive.Connect with Bret Barnhart:Barnhartexcavating.comBret’s Calendar LinkBret’s LinkedinBret Barnhart, Jr. is the fourth generation in his family to start his own excavation company. He began Bret Barnhart Excavating (BBE) in 2002 with $1,500, a single backhoe and truck, and a trailer. Since then, BBE has grown to an entire fleet of heavy machinery and trucks, averages just under 20 employees, and grosses $4mil annually. Being specialized, along with having a personal mentor and joining a mastermind, has helped shape not only Bret's company but also himself as well. Bret and his wife Crystal have been married for 16 years and have two children, Cole and Adelyn.Connect with Big A and Wally:View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/What Do I Want Challenge: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/whatdoiwantchallenge

"Work to find the truth." Do you ever harbor bitterness or apathy toward your wife for not giving support in building your business? Is she often more afraid for the future when discussing business ventures? Big A and Wally recount times in both their lives when their wives didn't want anything to do with the business–and how they got through those seasons. Big A confesses a frustrating disagreement with Robin that left him unable to focus on his business, while Wally explains how Sonia's last-minute stress before his travels affected his crucial client meetings. We dig deep into how personal growth and faith journeys shape our experiences, highlighting the importance of acknowledging the unseen efforts of our spouses. Whether your partner is a homemaker or a career individual, their role is indispensable. Key Takeaways:What happens when we don't prioritize our wife above our businessRealistic conversations to have with your wifeWhat your wife really wants from you when you're running a businessThe crucial role boundaries play for an entrepreneur's wifeJoin us as we turn the tables and reveal how your marital strife may be the hidden culprit behind those off days at work. We underscore why cultivating a strong, supportive relationship at home could be the ultimate productivity hack for your business success.Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/communityLinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/groupConnect with Big A and Wally:View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climbBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

"If you’re facing financial problems, relationship problems, starting your business… what do you do to simplify your life?" Charlie Cichetti shares his transformative, chaotic journey from a tech start up to a successful business exit. How did he simplify his life from starting his business to selling it? Key Takeaways:How do you get rid of the fear that if you don't follow the next fad, you'll lose your customers? How do you let go of opportunities when you're too busy to do everything? Charlie's crucial decisions that lead to starting a business in 2008 and then trying to sell it in 2023When is the right time to sell your business? Charlie opens up about his battles with cash flow issues and toxic partnerships, sharing how mentors and the Iron Sharpens Iron (ISI) community provided crucial support. He teaches us about resilience and the power of staying focused on our unique paths amidst FOMO.Our discussion wraps up with insights into creating financial security, setting clear boundaries, and building a leadership team that shares your company's vision. Don't miss this episode filled with practical strategies for achieving entrepreneurial success and personal growth!Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/communityLinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/groupConnect with Charlie Cichetti:Green Building Matters Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-green-building-matters-podcast-with-charlie-cichetti/id1346854349 Charlie's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charliecichetti/Charlie advocates for LEED and the green building movement to thousands of people monthly as they tune in to listen to his weekly podcast, Green Building Matters. Charlie Cichetti is truly a green social entrepreneur who is motivated by elevating people and the industry to be the best they can be!Connect with Big A and Wally:View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climbBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

"It’s not too late going forward, just focus on what’s ahead of you, not what’s behind you." Guys think about four things: sex, finances, time, and relationships. We're skipping over sex today to discuss HOW to think about the other 3 on the list to become a successful man who adds significance and value to the world around him. Hear firsthand how regular conversations and planning with your wife can reduce stress, foster harmony, and reveal unexpected opportunities for more time for what matters.Key Takeaways:What turning to a vice will do for youWhat do we do with our anxieties? How to move forward from past mistakesHow to manage your time wellWe reflect on the early, challenging days of starting a business, and the powerful role of faith and community support. A heartwarming story of family prayer and an anonymous act of generosity highlights the importance of prioritizing relationships and time. We delve into strategies for balancing personal time, nurturing relationships, and achieving both success and significance. Tune in for actionable insights and join our ISI Iron Sharpens Iron community for ongoing support and engagement.Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/communityLinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/groupConnect with Big A and Wally:View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climbBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/Episode 50: Is a Sexless Marriage Really a Marriage?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/view-from-the-top/id1649249589?i=1000628482116

How can we effectively sift through well-meaning advice to find what truly aligns with God's will for us?Through shared personal experiences, we highlight the necessity of being open and vulnerable to receive quality guidance. Your trainer at the gym might not need to be a believer to advise you on something, but should your trusted advisors be believers? And what if you don't want advice at all and would rather just figure it out yourself?Key Takeaways:Criteria for advisors vs. trusted advisorsShould you take advice from nonbelievers? Do your core values really make sense for real life? Are you going to the right people to help keep you accountable?This episode dives deep into the practicalities of seeking spiritual guidance, emphasizing reliance on God over mere human advice. But how do we know when our advisors are giving us biblical advice? Join the Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/communityConnect with Anthony Witt: witthouse.com or anthonywitt.comAnthony Witt is a professional licensed counselor and a business owner with a deep understanding of how entrepreneurship impacts personal health and those around them. Having bought, sold, and started multiple businesses, he has gained valuableexperience at the intersection of personal health and business. His belief that "a healthy business owner creates a healthy business" underscores his approach to helping entrepreneurs thrive.Connect with Bret Barnhart:Barnhartexcavating.comBret’s Calendar LinkBret’s LinkedinBret Barnhart, Jr. is the fourth generation in his family to start his own excavation company. He began Bret Barnhart Excavating (BBE) in 2002 with $1,500, a single backhoe and truck, and a trailer. Since then, BBE has grown to an entire fleet of heavy machinery and trucks, averages just under 20 employees, and grosses $4mil annually. Being specialized, along with having a personal mentor and joining a mastermind, has helped shape not only Bret's company but also himself as well. Bret and his wife Crystal have been married for 16 years and have two children, Cole and Adelyn.Connect with Big A and Wally:View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/What Do I Want Challenge: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/whatdoiwantchallenge

"If I don’t have the right resources and the right people around me, I tend to start making decisions that are outside the scope of my knowledge base… that gets really risky." There's always a chance you might get stuck, no matter where you are in your business. You can get stuck when you're starting off, you can get stuck with team members that just won't move the needle, and you can get stuck when you've arrived at the view from the top.What do we do when we don't know what to do next? Big A and Wally both expose their own difficulties when trudging through unknown waters of their business and how they were able to keep moving forward. Key Takeaways: 3 reasons you're stuck and how to get unstuckHow do you deal with fear of failure? Could this be holding you back? What Harry Potter has to do with businessHow risk plays a part in moving forward with business decisionsThis episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiring stories to help you conquer your business growth challenges.Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/communityLinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/groupConnect with Big A and Wally:View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climbBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

"The numbers tell the story of where you've been, where you are, and where you wanna go.” How do you define "success" in your own life? Are you looking to break even, pay yourself, or reach that million dollar mark annually? Are these what truly defines "business success"? Defining success for yourself is key to building a business that works for you, your team, and your customers. What if redefining success could completely transform your life? Learn the four benchmarks we created that define success for our lives on today's episode. Key Takeaways: Don't get distracted by everythingIs profitability the only benchmark to define success? How can you stay profitable? The two factors to customer satisfactionHear why knowing your numbers and having accountability partners can make or break your business, especially if you're a financial advisor or CPA. We emphasize the critical role of customer satisfaction and product quality, both of which directly influence your business's reputation and employee retention. By openly addressing financial issues and always striving for customer satisfaction, you'll build a solid foundation for long-term success.Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/communityLinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/groupLocal Roundtable Events: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/isiroundtableConnect with Big A and Wally:View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climbBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

Optimist vs. Pessimist vs. Realist: the game is on. “You’re not going to change who you are at your core, but... you can train your brain to create new habits.” Are you an optimist, pessimist, or a realist? Why does this matter in business, and how can it help be a better leader? You'll hear opposing viewpoints today as Big A and Wally discuss the differences and strengths of optimists, realists, and pessimists. Does one "win" over the other? We discuss the importance of blending different perspectives—whether you're a galvanizer or deeply analytical—to make more informed and balanced decisions as a leader in business. Key Takeaways: How to leverage the strengths and weaknesses you haveHow does stress play into your core leanings?Optimist vs. Pessimist vs. Realist.... is there a clear winner?Big A is an optimist, Wally is a realist–so it's going down on today's episodeOur conversation shifts gears as we dissect the balance between optimism, pessimism, and realism. We delve into how being analytical can sometimes be mistaken for pessimism and explore the strengths each outlook brings, particularly in professional and personal settings. Whether you're fostering optimism in your family or balancing realism and positivity in your business, we offer actionable advice to create a supportive environment for your company culture. Join us for a deep dive into the power of perspective and the nuanced interplay between optimism and pessimism.Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/communityLinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/groupLocal Roundtable Events: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/isiroundtableConnect with Big A and Wally:View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climbBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/