In Episode 171 of The Business Development Podcast, Kelly Kennedy addresses community questions from listeners, providing insights on a wide range of business development topics. He answers practical questions about handling communication on LinkedIn, including how to follow up after meetings without being intrusive and strategies for transitioning conversations from LinkedIn to direct communication. He also advises on building confidence and communication skills for non-native English speakers, emphasizing the importance of self-confidence and practice.

Kelly continues by discussing strategies for networking at trade shows and developing a personal brand on LinkedIn, highlighting the shift from corporate to personal posts that share real experiences and value. He encourages small business owners to grow sustainably by carefully timing new hires and expanding into new markets. The episode concludes with advice on understanding business development's role in generating new opportunities and insights on how to become a LinkedIn top voice by consistently providing value and engaging with your audience.

Key Takeaways:

1. Transition LinkedIn conversations to direct communication via email or phone as soon as possible to secure meetings.

2. Simplify meeting setups by sending a Calendly link instead of asking for emails or going through extra steps.

3. If a follow-up is needed after a meeting, check in once per week to maintain momentum without being intrusive.

4. Always end meetings with the question "What are the next steps?" to avoid losing traction.

5. Confidence shines through in communication, especially for non-native speakers—practice and self-belief are key.

6. Use trade shows to gather contact information for later follow-ups, not to make immediate sales.

7. Approach conversations with curiosity—asking about the other person will ease the pressure of networking with strangers.

8. Only hire when you have a long-term need or a project with guaranteed work to mitigate financial risk.

9. Master your local market and community before expanding your business to other cities.

10. A strong personal brand is built by sharing your experiences and values, making you relatable to others on platforms like LinkedIn.

In Episode 170 of The Business Development Podcast, host Kelly Kennedy sits down with Craig Williams, founder of A&M Abatement, to explore the often-overlooked dangers lurking in older homes and buildings: asbestos and hazardous materials. Craig shares his journey from environmental science to entrepreneurship, highlighting how he founded A&M Abatement to fill a critical gap in the industry. He dives into the technical details of asbestos abatement, explains the health risks associated with asbestos exposure, and offers practical advice for homeowners, business owners, and contractors working in buildings constructed before 1985.

Craig also discusses the broader impacts of asbestos, including its history, why it was so commonly used in construction, and what legal obligations exist today for property owners and businesses. The episode sheds light on an important, yet niche, industry while emphasizing the importance of being proactive in identifying and addressing hazardous materials in buildings. This conversation is essential for anyone involved in renovation, construction, or property management, providing valuable insights into maintaining safety and compliance.

Key Takeaways:

1. Asbestos was widely used in buildings up until the 1980s, making it common in older homes and structures.

2. Inhaling asbestos fibers can cause diseases like asbestosis and mesothelioma, often developing decades after exposure.

3. Asbestos becomes hazardous when it's friable, meaning it can crumble and release fibers into the air.

4. Before renovating buildings older than 1985, testing for asbestos is essential to avoid exposure risks.

5. Proper asbestos removal requires trained professionals and specialized equipment to ensure safety.

6. Spraying wate during abatement helps prevent asbestos fibers from becoming airborne by making them heavier.

7. Lead paint in older buildings poses neurological risks, particularly to children, and should be tested before renovation.

8. Asbestos-contaminated materials must be disposed of correctly to prevent exposure to others and environmental harm.

9. Employers must follow health and safety laws to protect workers from asbestos exposure during renovations or demolitions.

10. Hiring environmental consultants ensures proper testing and safety measures before any renovation or demolition work.

In this episode of The Business Development Podcast, host Kelly Kennedy explores the profound impact that overwhelming media consumption can have on both personal and professional growth. He discusses how constant exposure to negative news, social media, and political discourse can lead to a cycle of negativity, draining energy and focus away from essential business and personal development goals. Drawing on his experiences, Kelly shares ten valuable lessons on managing media intake, building a positive mindset, and maintaining focus amidst today's information overload. These lessons cover practical steps like curating social media feeds, celebrating small wins, reframing negative situations, and believing in oneself despite external circumstances.

The episode provides listeners with actionable strategies to regain control over what they consume and how it affects their mindset. Kelly encourages taking deliberate steps to reset media habits and embrace positive, uplifting content and communities. By disconnecting from the noise and focusing on constructive inputs, listeners can improve their mental clarity, enhance their decision-making, and drive business success even in challenging environments. The episode is a guide for anyone looking to escape media overwhelm and unlock their full potential in both their personal and professional lives.

Key Takeaways:

1. Control your media diet by being selective about the content you consume.

2. Take small, positive actions daily to create significant progress over time.

3. Avoid fear-based thinking by distancing yourself from fear-inducing media.

4. Celebrate small wins regularly to maintain motivation and momentum.

5. Surround yourself with positivity by choosing uplifting people and content.

6. Take breaks to reset and refocus away from negative influences.

7. Reframe negative situations to shift your mindset and build resilience.

8. Believe in your ability to succeed regardless of external circumstances.

9. Be mindful of what you share and consume, and ensure it aligns with your goals.

10. Remember you always have a choice to control what you consume and focus on.

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