Smashing the Plateau

Smashing the Plateau

Launched in 2014, Smashing the Plateau shares weekly stories, strategies and ideas to help consultants, coaches and small business owners build success as entrepreneurs following long careers as high-achieving employees. We believe you should be able to take control over your career destiny, do what you love, what you’re competent at doing, and get paid what you’re worth, consistently. We are committed to the success of expertise-based businesses. Ready to go even deeper? The Smashing the Plateau Community uses a structured, supportive process to implement the kinds of strategies we discuss in this podcast. It is a community that is built to be a safe, caring place, where inclusive, direct, active and empowering conversations are welcome. If you want to get your consulting, coaching or small business to grow, on your own terms, so that you can deliver great results to your ideal clients, while supporting the lifestyle you want, and you don’t want to do it alone, apply to become a member of the Smashing the Plateau Community. Learn more at https://smashingtheplateau.com. read less
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Episodes

How to Apply Basic Work Design Principles for Organizational Success Featuring Thomas Bertels
Aug 19 2024
How to Apply Basic Work Design Principles for Organizational Success Featuring Thomas Bertels
Thomas Bertels is a management consultant and business transformation expert on a mission to make work more productive, valuable, meaningful, and impactful. He has more than 25 years of experience helping companies across a range of industries, from startups to Fortune 5, transform how work gets done. Thinkers360 has recognized Thomas as a Top 50 Thought Leader on the Future of Work and Design Thinking.Before starting Purpose Works in 2021, Thomas was a founding partner at OXYGY/Valeocon. Earlier in his career, he held leadership roles at Aon Consulting and ABB.Thomas has written several books and numerous articles on work design, process improvement, business transformation, and organizational learning. His latest book is Fixing Work: Designing Jobs Employees Love (Greenleaf Book Group). He is also the host of the Work Matters podcast, where he explores in conversations with thought leaders and executives what leaders can do to fix work.Thomas and I discuss:Thomas’s motivation for writing his latest book Why Thomas chose to write a business fable The process of writing an allegoryDifferences between writing an allegory and a traditional business book The impact Thomas hopes his book will have The connection between the book and Thomas’s business Challenges Thomas foresees for thought leaders today What successful consultants do differently How Thomas would start his consulting business today Basic principles of the work design frameworkThe role of community in achieving professional success Learn more about Thomas Bertels at:Homepage www.purpose.works Book Site www.fixing-work.com Newsletter purposeworks.substack.com Diagnostic www.mymojo.works Podcast https://www.youtube.com/@WorkMatterspodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasbertels/, https://www.linkedin.com/company/purpose-works-consultingThank you to our sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunitySign up now to receive expert strategy tips from our podcast—your success is just a click away!
How to Shift from Self-Employment to Entrepreneurship in the Translation Industry Featuring Jason Willis-Lee
Aug 12 2024
How to Shift from Self-Employment to Entrepreneurship in the Translation Industry Featuring Jason Willis-Lee
Jason Willis-Lee is a popular translator trainer and has given presentations on various business topics aimed at freelance translators and interpreters for ProZ, BP, CIOL, and Training for Translators. He co-founded the Collaborative Networking Translation Project, Medico-legal Translations (www.medicolegaltranslations.com). As a solopreneur, he recently launched a podcast called 'How to Find More Direct Clients,' aimed at early career professional linguists, and he uses his professional expertise to run the 'How to Find More Direct Clients' online course."In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to navigate the evolving landscape of the translation industry and leverage your expertise to build a successful business.Jason and I discuss:What motivated Jason to go soloThe transition from generalist to specialist The difference between being self-employed and entrepreneurialHow Jason stretches himself through entrepreneurship Navigating the challenges in the translation industryThe importance of leveraging AI and technologyThe role of community in business growthPersonal branding and its significance for freelancers Learn more about Jason at https://entrepreneurialtranslator.com/training-for-translators/.Thank you to our sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunityGet exclusive access to expertly curated strategy tips by subscribing now – achieving success is just a click away!
How to Design Effective Business Processes and Focus on Productized Services Featuring Wayne Pelletier
Aug 5 2024
How to Design Effective Business Processes and Focus on Productized Services Featuring Wayne Pelletier
After 25 years as a creative professional, Wayne founded Resonant Pixel Company just three years ago. The business experienced some early rapid growth, but it wasn't the business Wayne wanted. He has since transitioned the company into productized services, helping small businesses leverage the Squarespace platform to go from having an informational brochure-ware website to a transactional growth engine.In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to transition from rapid early growth to a business model that aligns with your values and goals.Wayne and I discuss:How Wayne transitioned from unemployment to starting his business [03:00]Realizing the need to change his initial business model [04:49]Narrowing the focus and shedding off certain technologies [06:00]The importance of building processes and hiring [05:43]How to design effective business processes [09:01]Wayne's approach to hiring and testing new hires [10:48]Examples of unexpected wins in hiring [12:43]The benefits of having a subscription-based revenue model [19:00]Wayne’s ideal client profile [20:00]Future plans and goals for Resonant Pixel Company [21:42]The importance of being part of a community like Smashing the Plateau [22:46]Learn more about Wayne at: https://resonantpixel.co/Thank you to our sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunityUnlock exclusive, succinct strategy insights by subscribing now – mastering your success pathway is just a single click away!
How to Navigate Mid-Sized Business Challenges for Growth Featuring Phillip Brown
Jul 22 2024
How to Navigate Mid-Sized Business Challenges for Growth Featuring Phillip Brown
Phillip Brown is the founder of Blue Pit, Inc., a software consulting firm dedicated to improving business process automation. Throughout his career, Phillip has forged impactful partnerships with renowned organizations, including Disney, Harley Davidson, and NASA, leveraging his expertise to revolutionize their operations. His dedication lies in empowering mid-sized enterprises that grapple with challenges such as over-budget projects, organizational chaos, and high employee turnover. By implementing intuitive processes, Philip helps businesses regain control over their project management, supercharge their return on investment, and cultivate a work environment that attracts and retains top talent.In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn strategies for scaling your business effectively and creating a sustainable and attractive company culture.Phillip and I discuss:The transition from employee to entrepreneurTackling the unique challenges faced by mid-sized businessesThe art of foreseeing potential issues and implementing change managementStrategies for fostering effective communication within teamsThe importance of building a consulting business based on relationshipsLeveraging networking and conferences for business developmentThe role of AI and automation in crafting efficient business processesHow community and communication can propel business successLearn more about Phil at www.bluepit.com.Thank you to our sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunityEnlist now for bespoke access to concentrated strategy wisdom from our podcast authorities – elevate your success journey with just one click!
How to Break Free from Job Titles to Personal Identity Featuring Dr. Mira Brancu
Jul 1 2024
How to Break Free from Job Titles to Personal Identity Featuring Dr. Mira Brancu
Dr. Mira Brancu is a consulting and coaching psychologist specializing in leadership identity development and in building adaptive, cohesive, high-performing teams. She is also an Associate Professor, the author of "The Millennials Guide to Workplace Politics," a "Psychology Today" columnist for the blog series "A New Look at Women’s Leadership," and the host of "The Hard Skills" internet radio show and podcast. Her award-winning social impact firm, Towerscope, focuses on empowering and elevating women in leadership within the education and innovation industries.In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn about the intricacies of leadership and identity, especially the challenges women face in the corporate sphere and the liberating journey of defining your career and leadership path.Dr. Mira and I discuss:The link between job titles and personal identityThe freedom and creativity in starting your own businessThe experience of high achievers leaving the corporate worldThe challenge of separating personal identity from job rolesNavigating leadership ambivalence among high-potential womenDeciding whether to continue on the leadership trackThe impact of societal expectations on career decisionsStrategies for tuning out unhelpful advice from othersAdjusting to a sudden lack of structure after a career changeTips on joining and engaging with communitiesLearn more about Dr. Mira Brancu at http://www.gotowerscope.com/ and join the Tower Scope Leadership Academy for a special offer.Thank you to our sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunityGet exclusive entry to select, streamlined advice from our podcast specialists by subscribing now – a single click can pave your way to success!
How to Create Systems for a Stress-Free and Efficient Business Featuring Ral West
Jun 24 2024
How to Create Systems for a Stress-Free and Efficient Business Featuring Ral West
Ral West, a seasoned professional with over 40 years of experience, is a multifaceted entrepreneur respected in both the tourism industry and multifamily real estate circles. She is recognized for founding successful businesses, authoring courses, and contributing to various boards. She is also a philanthropist and dynamic speaker. Additionally, she is the founder of Ral West: Livin' The Dream and the creator of a course for entrepreneurs titled “Overcome Overwhelm: Create a Smooth Running Business with Less Stress.”In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will discover how to overcome the challenges of entrepreneurship and create a thriving business with less stress. Ral West, a dynamic entrepreneur with over 40 years of extensive experience, joins us to offer her wisdom on navigating the complex journey of business ownership.Ral and I discuss:Why high achievers tend to feel overwhelmed and how to counteract itThe paradox of saying no to increase profitabilityThe critical role of prioritizing and focusing for business successStrategies for matching your passions with a business model that relieves market painHow to leverage your existing network and find mentors when starting a businessThe importance of creating systems to streamline business operationsReal-world examples of systems Ral has implemented in her businessesRal's inspiration for helping other entrepreneurs at this stage of her lifeHow to effectively utilize communities and mentorship when venturing into new territoriesRal’s personal approach to lifelong entrepreneurship and continuous learningLearn more about Ral at https://www.ralwest.com/.Thank you to our sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunitySign up today for privileged entry to expertly curated, succinct strategies from our podcast gurus – your pathway to success is a mere click away!
How to Craft Long-Term Success with Sustainable Career Strategies Featuring Kathy Oneto
Jun 17 2024
How to Craft Long-Term Success with Sustainable Career Strategies Featuring Kathy Oneto
Kathy Oneto is an executive and life-work coach committed to helping individuals find success on their terms in both their professional and personal lives. As the founder of Sustainable Ambition and the host of the Sustainable Ambition Podcast, she guides clients to discover motivation in their careers, construct their future life and work arcs, and manage their efforts towards greater resilience and sustainability. In her diverse portfolio career, Kathy also serves as a strategy executive, aiding organizations in cutting through ambiguity and gaining the clarity needed to progress and take sustainable actions.In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to leave your corporate career and develop a sustainable model that brings fulfillment and success on your own terms.Kathy and I discuss:What inspired Kathy to step out of the corporate world and embrace entrepreneurshipHow her vision of entrepreneurship evolved over time The real meaning of sustainable ambition and how it can be a game-changerKathy's journey of building a sustainable ambitious life Strategies for professionals who want to craft a fulfilling, long-term career The importance of community as a "force multiplier" in your career Learn more about Kathy at Website: http://SustainableAmbition.comSustainable Ambition Podcast: http://SustainableAmbition.com/podcast or https://bit.ly/sustain-podLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kathy-oneto/Thank you to our sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunityUnlock premium insights and strategic wisdom from our top podcast experts – subscribe today for your gateway to success with just one click!
How to Offer Transformative Mentorship as an Entrepreneur Featuring Robbie Hardy
Jun 10 2024
How to Offer Transformative Mentorship as an Entrepreneur Featuring Robbie Hardy
Robbie Hardy knows how to navigate the maze of the entrepreneurial journey—and she wants to help you do the same. She can guide you through the highs and lows, from your first major mistake to your first sale. She understands because she's been there.A New Englander by birth and an "entrepreneurologist" by trade, Robbie Hardy is an author, experienced investor, and entrepreneur with extensive startup and board experience.In this episode of Smashing the Plateau, Robbie Hardy, an adept entrepreneur and mentor, talks about her journey from a disenchanted corporate employee to a successful business founder and a passionate advocate for women's mentorship in business. Dive into Robbie's story to reveal how she found her true calling in the twists and turns of entrepreneurship.Robbie and I discuss:The discomfort that led Robbie to leave the corporate worldLaunching her own business and securing her previous employer as her first clientThe rollercoaster of starting and selling a software companyUtilizing corporate connections to fuel her entrepreneurial venturesRobbie's mission to mentor women and help them find their voiceThe dynamics of effective mentorship and its transformative powerRobbie's advice for corporate refugees seeking to venture into entrepreneurshipLearn more about Robbie at https://www.robbiehardy.com/.Thank you to our sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunityGet your exclusive subscription for direct access to our podcast gurus' streamlined, precise tips on strategy. One click is all it stands between you and mastering your success journey!
How to Optimize Digital Spaces for Remote Work Productivity Featuring Wendy Ellin
Jun 3 2024
How to Optimize Digital Spaces for Remote Work Productivity Featuring Wendy Ellin
Wendy Ellin is a highly sought-after speaker, author, and consultant. Her #1 bestselling book, "Working From Home…How’s That Working For You?" continues to catch the attention of organizations that want to ensure their employees are able to work with less stress and more job satisfaction, no matter where they work. Her insights into having basic foundational organization systems are shared in her presentations with irreverence, humor, and a level of passion that motivates her audience to TAKE IMMEDIATE ACTION!Wendy has helped companies like The Home Depot, JCB, American Cancer Society, Spelman College, Cox Communications, Autotrader, PWC, and many more to ensure their people stay engaged, deliver their best work, and have a life outside of work. She believes that when your people win, everyone wins.Wendy talks about real-life challenges that all busy professionals experience, such as email overload, being on time (or not), reasonable expectations for getting things done, self-defeating behaviors, and much more. It is from Wendy's 20-plus years in the corporate arena, where she drew on her own successes by working smart, not hard, that inspired her to develop Wendy Ellin’s 3P Academy—a toolbox that fuels radical productivity, peak performance, and a renewed sense of peace of mind.In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, we delve into the systems and strategies Wendy has developed to make working from home a stress-free and satisfying experience, which are essential for entrepreneurs and professionals in the current climate.Wendy and I discuss:Her transition from advertising sales to productivity consulting [00:28]What inspired her to write her best selling book [01:48]How to set up a successful work-from-home environment [06:28]Organizing physical and digital workspaces for maximum efficiency [07:12]The importance of systems in productivity (S-Y-S-T-E-M) [08:07]Wendy's life-changing car accident and its impact on her mission [04:58]Using speaking engagements to grow a business and create an impact [04:08]The role of community and sharing in overcoming organizational challenges [12:24]Wendy's approach to dealing with disorganization and stress at work [10:25]Learn more about Wendy at https://linkedin.com/in/wendyellin and www.wendyellin.com.Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Activate your subscription now for privileged access to select, focused strategy advice from our podcast specialists – a single click is all that stands between you and your success!
How to Shape Leadership with Authentic Communication Techniques Featuring Kelly Whitaker
May 27 2024
How to Shape Leadership with Authentic Communication Techniques Featuring Kelly Whitaker
Kelly Whitaker (she/her) is an LA-based communication specialist, speaker, and head of Kelly Convos. Her dynamic and singular approach empowers conflict-averse leaders and individuals to confidently and compassionately conduct difficult conversations in service of personal growth and lasting problem-solving.In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will discover the strategies for successful communication that can transform your leadership and resolve conflicts effectively.Kelly and I discuss:Her altruistic motivations and diverse career path leading up to her current role [00:01:00]The importance of communication skills across different social spheres [00:02:00]Deliberate focus on conflict resolution and the needs it addresses [00:03:31]A methodology for conducting difficult conversations and finding solutions [00:05:01]How recruitment experiences shaped her approach to communication [00:06:39]The decision to transition from employee to entrepreneur [00:08:40]The impact of effective communication on leadership and team dynamics [00:10:19]The value of interpersonal communication in a digital age [00:16:39]Networking and community building to enhance personal and professional growth [00:19:40]Learn more about Kelly at her website www.kellyconvos.com and follow her on Instagram @kellyconvos.Thank you to our sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunityJoin our subscriber list this instant for privileged access to handpicked, concise strategic wisdom from seasoned podcast veterans – your success journey is just one click from unfolding!
How to Master Resilience in Work Transitions from Corporate Leadership to Entrepreneur Featuring Dr. Marie-Helene Pelletier
May 20 2024
How to Master Resilience in Work Transitions from Corporate Leadership to Entrepreneur Featuring Dr. Marie-Helene Pelletier
Throughout her career in business management and psychology, Dr. Pelletier has spearheaded the dialogue on crucial issues of leadership resilience and work performance. Drawing on her extensive background in the corporate, insurance, governance, and public sectors, she brings an international perspective and unique expertise to leadership. She is a practicing leadership psychologist and executive coach with over 20 years of experience and holds a Ph.D. and an MBA from the University of British Columbia. Marie-Helene is a member of the Global Clinical Practice Network of the World Health Organization and a past director on the boards of the Canadian Psychological Association and the International Association of Applied Psychology. She has presented, authored, and co-authored numerous industry and academic publications and has won several academic and industry awards. In 2024, Dr. Pelletier published her award-winning book, "The Resilience Plan: A Strategic Approach to Optimizing Your Work Performance and Mental Health."In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, we explore the critical role of mental resilience when making the leap from corporate life to entrepreneurship.Dr. Marie-Helene and I discuss:What motivates career changes and transitions [00:21]Strategies for successful career transitions [00:56]The influence of mental health in shifting from corporate to business ownership [02:00]Enhancing supply to meet increased demands during transitions [03:26]The significance of relationships and community in building resilience [14:39]How to strategically plan for resilience in business [20:12]Learn more about Marie-Helene at www.theresilienceplan.com and receive the free worksheets: https://drmarie-helene.com/free-resources-sign-up/Thank you to our sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunitySubscribe wherever you listen to podcasts to get direct access to our podcast experts' carefully crafted, concise strategy pointers – your blueprint for success is merely one click from activation!
How to Master Client Attraction and Grow Your Freelance Brand Featuring Amy Posner
May 6 2024
How to Master Client Attraction and Grow Your Freelance Brand Featuring Amy Posner
Amy Posner is a seasoned online entrepreneur and business coach who helps digital creative freelancers build breakthrough businesses.Over her 30-year career, Amy launched six successful businesses and mentored thousands of freelancers to success. She empowers freelancers to grow the business they want by teaching them the skills they need to attract the right clients – in her Complete Breakthrough Freelancer course and as co-host of the Business Badassery podcast.In her free time, you’ll find Amy adventuring around the Pacific Northwest, hiking, gardening, and making a ruckus!In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you’ll discover insider strategies to innovate in your industry and position yourself as a thought leader.Amy and I discuss:The unexpected transition from the fashion industry to entrepreneurship [01:22]The revelation that business ownership is a creative pursuit [02:07]The evolution from business operator to business mentor [03:04]The importance of business skills for digital creatives [04:00]The key concepts and skills needed for freelancers to succeed [08:04]The role of discovery calls in client acquisition [08:30]Crafting compelling proposals and scopes of work [11:13]The significance of client relations and communication [13:31]The distinction between selling to small businesses vs. enterprises [15:58]The value of peer support and community in business success [25:37]Learn more about Amy at https://amyposner.com/podcast.Thank you to our sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunityUnlock premium content by subscribing: tap into expertly curated, to-the-point strategy tips from our podcast veterans – your success journey is a click from commencement!
How to Engineer a Successful Side Hustle Transition Featuring Damien Schreurs
Apr 29 2024
How to Engineer a Successful Side Hustle Transition Featuring Damien Schreurs
Damien Schreurs, a former engineer with 18 years of experience working for a Fortune 500 US company with an R&D facility in Luxembourg, initiated EasyTECH as a side hustle in 2013 to explore entrepreneurship while maintaining a steady income. In September 2016, Damien left his 9-to-5 job to provide Apple training and consultancy services in Luxembourg.In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how Damien transitioned from his corporate career to entrepreneurship, gaining control over his time and dedicating himself to his family and work.Damien and I discuss:The trigger that led to his decision to quit his nine-to-five job [01:09]Why he started his business as a side hustle and his experience with part-time work [01:09]Adjusting his financial goals and saving strategy to facilitate his transition [04:05]The role of patience and impatience in making the move to full-time entrepreneurship [02:53]How community and networking were instrumental in shifting his business from B2C to B2B [14:10]The strategic decisions and personal reflections that guided him to focus on B2B training [16:29]His experience with mentorship and the impact of COVID-19 on his business evolution [18:04]Learn more about Amy at https://macpreneur.com, https://macpreneur.com/smashing, and https://macpreneur.com/youtube.Thank you to our sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunityGet your exclusive subscription today for direct entry to our podcast specialists' streamlined and curated strategy guidance – a click is all that stands between you and your success journey!