In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge sits down with Kathleen Lucente, Founder and CEO of Red Fan Communications, to explore how B2B companies can build lasting authority and credibility in the AI-driven digital landscape. Kathleen shares her expertise in modern PR, brand storytelling, and thought leadership, offering a roadmap for high-growth companies to adapt to the era of zero-click searches and AI-powered visibility.

Kathleen explains that traditional SEO strategies are no longer enough. With nearly 60% of Google searches ending without a click, brands must now focus on being discoverable through AI summaries, thought leadership, and digital authority—not just website traffic. She introduces her “Revenue Bridge” framework, built around three pillars: authority, credibility, and reputation. Authority opens doors, credibility converts, and reputation sustains long-term growth.

To stand out in this new environment, Kathleen encourages businesses to refresh their brand narratives, ensuring they reflect what truly differentiates them in the market. She emphasizes multi-channel storytelling and the importance of developing multiple internal thought leaders who can each represent distinct aspects of a company’s expertise. The goal isn’t just visibility—it’s being referenced, quoted, and trusted by both humans and AI systems alike.

Finally, she underscores that thought leadership is now a direct revenue driver. By educating your audience, securing media coverage, and engaging authentically online, companies can strengthen their digital footprint and boost conversions. Kathleen’s message is clear: in the AI era, influence happens before the click. B2B leaders must build public credibility that algorithms and audiences alike can recognize and trust.

Kathleen Lucente is the Founder and CEO of Red Fan Communications, a strategic communications firm based in Austin, Texas. With over two decades of experience, she has helped startups and Fortune 500 companies alike transform their PR and marketing strategies. Her firm specializes in brand narrative development, executive thought leadership, and communications strategies that drive measurable business growth.

Red Fan Communications is a full-service strategic communications agency that helps high-growth B2B companies stand out in crowded markets. The firm partners with clients to elevate authority, strengthen reputation, and connect PR efforts directly to revenue. Through storytelling, content strategy, and media relations, Red Fan ensures brands remain relevant, discoverable, and influential in the AI-powered age.

• Red Fan Communications Website
• Kathleen Lucente LinkedIn

• 60% of searches now end without a click—visibility requires AI optimization.
• Kathleen’s “Revenue Bridge” framework: authority, credibility, and reputation.
• How to refresh your brand narrative to attract modern B2B buyers.
• Why thought leadership drives both awareness and revenue.
• Practical steps to build multi-channel visibility and executive trust.

Kathleen Lucente’s insights reveal that building authority today means adapting to the invisible influence of AI. By...

In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge sits down with Andrew Hartman, Founder and CEO of Time Boss, to explore a transformative approach to productivity. Andrew challenges the traditional hustle mindset, advocating instead for sustainable focus, intentional time management, and a “time-as-cash” philosophy. Their discussion reveals how leaders can achieve meaningful results by aligning energy, setting boundaries, and working smarter—not harder.

Andrew explains that productivity isn’t about staying busy—it’s about getting the right things done. He encourages founders and executives to treat time like a limited resource, allocating it intentionally toward high-impact work. By setting a weekly “time budget,” business leaders can prioritize key results, prevent burnout, and maintain clarity around what truly matters.

He also highlights the importance of sustainability over short-term sprints. Hustle can drive short bursts of progress, but without recovery, it leads to exhaustion. Instead, Andrew recommends anchoring to a steady baseline of work hours and recharging regularly to stay consistent. He reminds leaders that “boundaries aren’t restrictive—they’re empowering.” The discipline of protecting your time actually frees you to focus more deeply on creative and strategic work.

Lastly, Andrew emphasizes the power of working in your zone of genius—the tasks that energize you and align with your strengths. Delegating draining work and using simple, familiar tools for time management (like a calendar or to-do list) can dramatically boost both productivity and satisfaction. True efficiency, he says, comes not from shiny new apps, but from consistent habits and clear priorities.

Andrew Hartman is the Founder and CEO of Time Boss, a productivity training company that helps entrepreneurs and executives design intentional, sustainable schedules for success. With years of experience coaching business owners, Andrew has developed frameworks like “time-as-cash” and “intentional time budgeting” to help clients achieve more by doing less—without burnout.

Time Boss is a coaching and training platform dedicated to helping professionals reclaim their time and focus on meaningful results. Through masterclasses, workshops, and personalized consulting, Time Boss equips individuals and teams to set clear priorities, align their energy with their goals, and create balance between work and life.

• Time Boss Website
• Andrew Hartman LinkedIn Profile

• Why productivity is about results, not busyness
• How to apply the “time-as-cash” framework for better boundaries
• Creating a weekly time budget for focus and clarity
• Working in your “zone of genius” to maximize energy and impact
• Why sustainable habits outperform constant hustle

Andrew Hartman’s insights remind us that success isn’t built on endless work—it’s built on intention, focus, and balance. By treating time as your most valuable currency, setting boundaries, and operating in your strengths, you can create both sustainable productivity and a fulfilling lifestyle.

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In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge speaks with Bill Rice, founder of Bill Rice Strategy Group and Kaleidico. Bill shares his expertise in B2B marketing, lead generation, and the evolving role of AI in shaping how businesses attract and convert clients. Drawing from decades of experience in fintech, mortgage lending, and legal industries, Bill offers actionable insights for executives and agencies looking to thrive in a rapidly changing digital landscape.

Bill explains that B2B marketing has evolved beyond traditional methods like cold outreach and Google Ads. Today’s success depends on creating digital surface area—the online footprint of content, profiles, and engagement that helps AI and algorithms recognize your expertise. He emphasizes that consistent, clear messaging across blogs, websites, and social platforms allows both search engines and large language models (like ChatGPT) to identify and recommend your brand as an authority.

A key part of Bill’s strategy is leveraging LinkedIn for executive visibility. He encourages business leaders to post regularly, engage thoughtfully, and use the platform as a stage for thought leadership. Sharing authentic stories, insights, and industry perspectives humanizes your brand while establishing credibility. This kind of visibility not only attracts potential clients but also builds trust and familiarity long before the sales conversation begins.

Bill also discusses how AI and large language models are reshaping the buyer’s journey. AI-driven referrals are becoming more influential than traditional SEO, as they provide context-aware recommendations tailored to user needs. He advises business owners to ensure their digital content is well-structured, easy to interpret, and consistently reinforces their niche expertise. By combining thoughtful content creation, AI awareness, and genuine personal branding, companies can build scalable, first-party lead generation systems that produce sustainable results.

Bill Rice is the Founder of Bill Rice Strategy Group and Kaleidico, two leading agencies specializing in B2B marketing and lead generation. With over 20 years of experience across finance, law, and senior living sectors, Bill helps executives and organizations develop first-party lead systems, optimize digital presence, and harness AI for measurable business growth. He is also the creator of The Executive Brief, a weekly newsletter featuring actionable insights for leaders navigating the intersection of marketing and technology.

Bill Rice Strategy Group is a marketing consultancy that helps businesses build first-party lead generation systems through strategy, content creation, and AI-driven insights. With a focus on long-term growth and client ownership of marketing assets, the firm empowers organizations to elevate their brand authority, generate consistent leads, and adapt to the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

• Bill Rice Strategy Group
• Bill Rice LinkedIn Profile
• The Executive Brief Newsletter

• How AI is reshaping B2B lead generation and client discovery
• Why digital surface area boosts visibility and credibility
• The power of LinkedIn for executive thought leadership
• Building sustainable, first-party lead...

In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge interviews Kara Duffy, CEO and Founder of KDCC International, who helps entrepreneurs and business owners realign their work with their passions and strengths. Kara shares how reconnecting with what you love can reignite purpose, boost profitability, and prevent burnout. Through her experience coaching creative leaders and building businesses, she offers clear, actionable steps to simplify operations, find your “zone of genius,” and create a company that feels as good as it performs.

Kara believes that success starts with alignment—when your business reflects your purpose and energizes you daily. She explains that many entrepreneurs drift from their passion over time, taking on clients or projects that drain creativity and joy. Her “lemonade stand” philosophy encourages founders to strip back to what they do best and build from that foundation. By focusing on a single core offering, simplifying operations, and delegating distractions, business owners can regain clarity, increase profitability, and rediscover fulfillment in their work.

Operating in your “zone of genius,” Kara says, means spending most of your time on high-value, joyful activities. She urges leaders to delegate or eliminate everything outside that zone and to audit weekly tasks for alignment. Through this lens, even niche businesses—like boutique creatives or specialists serving small, passionate audiences—can thrive when they stay authentic and focused. When clarity replaces clutter, it becomes easier to attract dream clients who align with your mission and values.

Kara also emphasizes that business is a lifestyle, not just a job. She encourages entrepreneurs to design companies that support their personal rhythms and long-term well-being. Whether it’s taking “mini holidays” to recharge or fostering genuine client relationships, the goal is to create a sustainable balance. Her signature mantra—“Stop Selling, Start Sharing”—captures her belief that authenticity and generosity are the true engines of business growth. When you lead with purpose and share what you love, success follows naturally.

Kara Duffy is the CEO and Founder of KDCC International, a business coaching and consulting firm dedicated to helping entrepreneurs and creative leaders build businesses that are both profitable and purposeful. With extensive experience guiding founders through growth and realignment, Kara helps clients simplify, scale, and reconnect with their mission. She is also the author of Stop Selling, Start Sharing, a guide to authentic, purpose-driven business.

KDCC International empowers entrepreneurs and teams to build high-impact, passion-driven businesses through strategic coaching, workshops, and consulting. From clarity and culture to profitability and purpose, KDCC helps leaders align their operations with their vision—creating companies that thrive from the inside out.

• KDCC International
• Kara Duffy LinkedIn Profile

• How to simplify your business using the “lemonade stand” approach
• Why working in your “zone of genius” leads to sustainable success
• How to declutter your business like the KonMari Method
• Turning your business into a lifestyle you love
• Building authentic connections through sharing, not selling

As Kara Duffy reminds us, business success isn’t just about growth—it’s about alignment. When your...

As your business scales, the financial landscape becomes increasingly complex. Many founders find themselves overwhelmed by cash flow management, forecasting, and financial decision-making—realizing their passion alone isn’t enough to sustain growth. In this episode, host Josh Elledge interviews Laresa McIntyre, fractional CFO and Founder of Rockbridge CFO, who shares her insights on when to bring in a fractional CFO, how to prepare for that step, and how doing so can transform your business operations and confidence.

Laresa explains that a fractional CFO is a part-time financial executive who provides strategic planning, forecasting, and financial insight—without the cost of a full-time hire. Businesses typically benefit when revenue reaches the $1M–$2M mark or when decision-making starts to rely too heavily on gut instinct instead of data. She highlights clear signs that a company is ready for financial leadership: outgrowing basic tools like QuickBooks, feeling uncertain about profitability, or needing clarity around cash flow and personnel costs.

A fractional CFO doesn’t just manage numbers—they partner with founders to bring order, foresight, and peace of mind. Laresa shares how implementing more detailed financial reporting and proactive cash flow forecasting helps business owners understand where their money is going, where it should go next, and how to allocate it efficiently. This support allows leaders to step back from financial stress and focus on strategy, growth, and innovation instead.

For founders still below seven figures, Laresa recommends starting early by setting up robust accounting systems and forecasting tools. Preparation ensures a fractional CFO can deliver maximum value once engaged. By building these systems in advance, founders avoid reactive decisions and gain clarity on how each financial move impacts long-term scalability.

Laresa McIntyre is the Founder and Fractional CFO at Rockbridge CFO, where she helps businesses gain financial clarity, improve profitability, and scale strategically. With years of experience supporting founders and executive teams, she specializes in transforming financial chaos into actionable growth strategies.

Rockbridge CFO provides strategic financial leadership for growing companies through fractional CFO services. The firm focuses on forecasting, profitability analysis, and cash flow management—empowering business owners to make confident, data-driven decisions without the expense of a full-time CFO.

• Rockbridge CFO
• Laresa McIntyre LinkedIn Profile

• Signs your business is ready for a fractional CFO
• How financial forecasting improves decision-making
• Common gaps in accounting systems for scaling companies
• The emotional and strategic benefits of CFO partnership
• How to prepare your financial foundation before reaching seven figures

Hiring a fractional CFO isn’t just about managing your finances—it’s about reclaiming your time, focus, and confidence as a leader. As Laresa McIntyre explains, the right time to bring in a CFO is when you’re ready to grow with clarity and strategy instead of stress and guesswork. Whether your business is at $500K or $5M, proactive financial leadership can set the foundation for sustainable, scalable success.

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Small and medium-sized business owners are facing unprecedented challenges in 2025, from rapid legal changes to AI-driven disruption. In a recent episode, Josh Elledge sat down with Adam Williams, author and Co-founder of Pennywise Tax Strategies, to explore actionable strategies for SMB founders navigating complex tax, legal, and operational environments. Adam shared insights on proactive tax planning, leveraging expert advisors, and adapting to technological changes to help businesses thrive in an increasingly dynamic landscape.

Adam emphasizes that reactive tax preparation is no longer sufficient for SMBs looking to maximize profits and future-proof their businesses. Forward-thinking strategies like auditing profit and loss statements, employing family members, leveraging the Augusta Rule, choosing the right business entity, and utilizing cost segregation can save businesses significant money while maintaining compliance. He also highlights the importance of ongoing education and expert advisors, ensuring owners can confidently navigate new laws, AI integration, and changing economic conditions.

Proactive planning goes beyond minimizing taxes—it’s about optimizing operations and leveraging every available advantage. SMB owners can use these strategies to automate processes, structure their teams effectively, and ensure every deduction, credit, or exemption is captured. Adam’s guidance demonstrates how combining thoughtful planning with expert support allows businesses to remain agile, profitable, and competitive in 2025 and beyond.

Entrepreneurs who implement these strategies not only reduce risk but also position their businesses for sustainable growth. From cost-saving opportunities to AI-driven efficiency improvements, the insights Adam shared provide a clear roadmap for SMB founders seeking long-term success. By taking a proactive approach, business owners can reclaim control over their finances, optimize operations, and confidently scale their enterprises.

Adam Williams is the Co-founder of Pennywise Tax Strategies and a seasoned author focused on actionable tax and business advice for small and medium-sized enterprises. With deep expertise in tax planning, business law, and strategic consulting, Adam empowers SMB owners to make informed decisions that maximize profits and minimize risk.

Pennywise Tax Strategies helps small and medium businesses implement proactive tax planning, optimize deductions, and leverage financial strategies to grow efficiently. Their team specializes in forward-looking solutions that combine expert knowledge with practical, actionable tactics for entrepreneurs navigating a rapidly evolving business environment.

• Pennywise Tax Strategies
• Adam Williams LinkedIn

• How SMBs can navigate complex tax and legal changes in 2025
• Strategies for proactive tax planning and financial optimization
• Leveraging expert advisors and mastering profit and loss statements
• Tips for employing family members, leveraging the Augusta Rule, and entity selection
• Insights on cost segregation and maximizing deductions for SMBs

The 2025 SMB environment demands proactive planning, strategic partnerships, and a keen understanding of tax and operational opportunities. Adam Williams’ insights provide a roadmap for entrepreneurs seeking to thrive amid uncertainty by optimizing finances, leveraging expert guidance, and positioning...

Entrepreneurship often requires both discipline and strategic vision, and few embody that combination like Gary MacDermid—a Navy veteran turned successful business acquirer, investor, and author. In a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge sat down with Gary to discuss his journey from military service to civilian business leadership, offering actionable strategies for veterans and entrepreneurs alike. This post distills key insights from the conversation, focusing on growth through acquisition, creative financing, and the importance of intentional goal-setting.

Gary emphasizes that acquiring businesses—rather than relying solely on organic growth—can rapidly scale revenue, talent, and operational capacity. By identifying complementary businesses and overlaying high-value services, entrepreneurs can unlock immediate opportunities and enhance client value. Creative financing options, such as seller financing, SBA loans, and private investors, make acquisitions accessible even without deep upfront capital, allowing business owners to pursue strategic growth without overextending resources.

Veterans, in particular, benefit from leveraging military discipline and intentional goal-setting, which Gary details in his book Set Your Own Goals or Someone Else Will. He recommends defining clear milestones, breaking down actionable steps, and seeking mentorship or peer accountability to navigate complex business decisions effectively. Beyond acquisition strategies, Gary stresses the importance of cultural integration and communication to ensure smooth transitions for both clients and staff, ensuring that growth is sustainable rather than just rapid.

For all entrepreneurs, Gary underscores the value of overlaying high-ticket services on acquired businesses, continuously learning from new markets, and integrating processes that drive efficiency. Whether transitioning from military service or expanding an existing business, the principles of acquisition, strategic financing, and clear goal-setting serve as powerful levers to accelerate success.

Gary MacDermid is a Navy veteran, investor, business acquirer, and author of Set Your Own Goals or Someone Else Will. He leverages his military experience and entrepreneurial expertise to help veterans, career changers, and business leaders strategically grow and scale their businesses.

Gary specializes in growth through acquisition, creative financing, and advisory services that empower entrepreneurs to expand efficiently while maintaining operational and cultural integrity. His methods help businesses unlock hidden value and pursue strategic opportunities with confidence.

• Gary MacDermid Website: https://garymacdermid.com
• Book: Set Your Own Goals or Someone Else Will

• Gary’s journey from Navy service to entrepreneurship
• Benefits of growth through acquisition over organic growth
• Step-by-step approach to buying and integrating a business
• Creative financing strategies: seller financing, SBA loans, private investors
• Overlaying high-ticket services to maximize revenue
• Intentional goal-setting framework for veterans and career changers

Gary MacDermid’s insights demonstrate that disciplined strategy, smart acquisition, and intentional goal-setting are essential tools for accelerating growth. By leveraging military experience, creative financing, and high-value service overlays, entrepreneurs and veterans alike can unlock...

In the rapidly evolving world of social media marketing, staying ahead of platform trends, AI tools, and audience expectations is critical. In a recent podcast episode, Josh Elledge interviewed Madison Hollimon, CEO and Founder of Mad Marketing House, who shared her expertise in content creation, paid advertising, and user-generated content (UGC) strategies. This post breaks down key insights and actionable tips for businesses looking to optimize their social media campaigns and maximize engagement in 2024.

Madison emphasizes that effective social media marketing requires blending creativity with data-driven strategy. By leveraging authentic UGC, businesses can increase engagement and build trust, while paid advertising helps amplify reach and drive conversions. Combining AI tools with human oversight ensures campaigns are optimized efficiently without losing the personal touch that resonates with audiences.

She also highlights the differences between B2B and B2C advertising, explaining that B2B campaigns require precise targeting on platforms like LinkedIn, while B2C campaigns rely on broad reach across Meta and TikTok. Madison stresses that paid advertising is most effective when aligned with strategic goals, proper budgeting, and ongoing monitoring, emphasizing that quick wins come from smart investments rather than guesswork.

Finally, Madison encourages brands to embrace authenticity and storytelling while adopting AI and automation cautiously. Keeping content relatable and visually appealing ensures campaigns stand out amid algorithm changes and evolving consumer behavior. Businesses that blend technology with creativity are positioned to achieve higher ROI and long-term brand loyalty.

Madison Hollimon is the CEO and Founder of Mad Marketing House, a full-service social media marketing agency specializing in content creation, paid advertising, and strategic campaigns for both B2B and B2C brands. With a focus on combining creativity, strategy, and data, Madison helps businesses scale their social presence and engage audiences effectively.

Mad Marketing House is a creative agency that helps businesses craft authentic content and implement high-performing social media campaigns. Leveraging UGC, AI tools, and strategic paid advertising, the agency works with entrepreneurs, product-based businesses, and personal brands to maximize engagement, conversions, and ROI.

• Mad Marketing House Website
• Madison Hollimon LinkedIn
• Instagram: @madmarketinghouse

• The importance of authentic user-generated content for engagement and trust.
• How AI and automation can optimize campaigns without replacing human oversight.
• Strategic differences between B2B and B2C social media advertising.
• Tips for paid ad budgeting, targeting, and monitoring to maximize ROI.
• Future trends in social media marketing and content strategy.

Social media marketing in 2024 demands a balance of creativity, strategy, and technological savvy. Madison Hollimon’s insights highlight how brands can leverage UGC, paid advertising, and AI tools to drive engagement and achieve measurable results while staying authentic and audience-focused.

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