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In this compelling episode, Carrie Richardson interviews Justin Breen, a master connector who spends his days linking some of the world's most brilliant and misunderstood visionaries. Justin delves deep into the world of high EQ and IQ individuals—those rare few who are focused on creating lasting legacies rather than just building empires. Through his unique perspective, Justin shares how he identifies and connects these visionaries, allowing them to amplify their impact on the world.

Whether you're a visionary yourself or someone who wants to better understand the mindset of those who are changing the world, this episode is packed with insights. Justin also discusses the importance of tools like the Kolbe Index and how it helps visionaries understand their strengths and weaknesses, leading to greater alignment and success.

Episode Highlights:

• Connecting Visionaries: How Justin identifies and links some of the world's most misunderstood geniuses.
• Building Legacies vs. Empires: Why true visionaries focus on purpose over profit.
• The Kolbe Index: Understanding how your brain takes action and why it matters.
• Embracing Misunderstanding: The pain and power of being a misunderstood visionary.
• Family and Vision: Justin's reflections on raising children with a visionary mindset.

Notable Quotes:

• "Empires destroy. Legacies build."
• "Visionaries are not afraid of risk—they're not afraid of anything."
• "To be great is to be misunderstood."

Guest Information:

Justin Breen is a visionary connector, author, and entrepreneur dedicated to linking high EQ and IQ individuals who are focused on making a significant impact on the world. He is the founder of the Epic Fit Network, where he creates environments for these rare individuals to connect and collaborate.

Links and Resources Mentioned:

• Kolbe Index: kolbe.com
• Epic Fit Network: TheEpicFit.com
• Justin Breen's Books: Coming soon - "Epic Journey"

Carrie Richardson and Ian Richardson host the WIN Podcast - What's Important Now?

Serial entrepreneurs, life partners and business partners, they have successfully exited from multiple businesses (IT, call center, real estate, marketing) and they help other business owners create their own versions of success.

Ian is certified in Eagle Center For Leadership Making A Difference, Paterson StratOp, and LifePlan.

Carrie has helped create and execute successful outbound sales strategies for over 1200 technology-focused businesses including MSPs, manufacturers, distributors and SaaS firms.

Learn more at www.foxcrowgroup.com

Book time with either of them here: https://randr.consulting/connect

Be a guest on WIN! We host successful entrepreneurs who share advice with other entrepreneurs on how to build, grow or sell a business using examples from their own experience.

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In this episode of "What's Important Now," host Carrie Richardson sits down with Kirk Halpern, the visionary behind Farmers and Fishermen Purveyors. Kirk shares his remarkable journey from practicing law to becoming a major player in the meat and seafood industry. With a passion for supporting small farmers and fishermen, Kirk's latest venture aims to deliver the freshest products while making a positive impact on the community. Tune in to hear about his innovative sourcing strategies, redemption stories, and valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Episode Highlights:

• Kirk's transition from law to the meat and seafood industry
• The growth and success of Buckhead Beef Company and Halpern's Purveyors
• The birth of Farmers and Fishermen Purveyors and its mission
• Innovative sourcing and supply chain strategies for fresh seafood
• Supporting local businesses and redemption stories
• Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and understanding J curves in business

Guest Quotes:

• "I wanted to work and have an impact on small farmers and small fishermen individuals who with love and passion utilize their hands and their heart to grow catch you name it wonderful products and bring them into the marketplace."
• "Adversity reveals character, and my team showed it."
• "Your value is your coachability and your work ethic."

Guest Information:

• Name: Kirk Halpern
• Company: Farmers and Fishermen Purveyors
• Website: Farmers and Fishermen Purveyors
• Social Media: LinkedIn, Instagram

Carrie Richardson and Ian Richardson host the WIN Podcast - What's Important Now?

Serial entrepreneurs, life partners and business partners, they have successfully exited from multiple businesses (IT, call center, real estate, marketing) and they help other business owners create their own versions of success.

Ian is certified in Eagle Center For Leadership Making A Difference, Paterson StratOp, and LifePlan.

Carrie has helped create and execute successful outbound sales strategies for over 1200 technology-focused businesses including MSPs, manufacturers, distributors and SaaS firms.

Learn more at www.foxcrowgroup.com

Book time with either of them here: https://randr.consulting/connect

Be a guest on WIN! We host successful entrepreneurs who share advice with other entrepreneurs on how to build, grow or sell a business using examples from their own experience.

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In this engaging episode of the WIN podcast, host Carrie Richardson sits down with Michelle Accardi, the dynamic CEO of LionGard.

They discuss Michelle's unique approach to leadership, the importance of working in your flow state, and how LionGard is making strides in the cybersecurity industry. Michelle shares insights into the transition of leadership from LionGard’s founder Joe Alapat, the company’s core values, and the significance of urgency in achieving business goals. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on growth, the challenges of running a business, and the exciting upcoming event, RoarCon.

Episode Highlights:

• Michelle Accardi discusses the transition of leadership at LionGard and the impact of founder Joe Alapat’s vision.
• The concept of working in your "10X" or flow state and its importance in business success.
• LionGard's journey to becoming a full-fledged cybersecurity company.
• The introduction of a new core value at LionGard: a sense of urgency.
• Details about RoarCon, LionGard's first major event, and its significance.
• Michelle’s personal insights on growth, leadership, and maintaining a positive mindset.
• The importance of building relationships and networks in the MSP community.

Guest Quotes:

• "If you ask a fish to climb a tree, you're not going to get very far. Put people where their talents are best served." - Michelle Accardi
• "Being in your flow state means doing activities that are easy and fun, bringing out the best in yourself." - Michelle Accardi
• "We’re a cybersecurity company with a cyber risk dashboard that shows cyber posture tied to cyber insurance controls." - Michelle Accardi
• "I love to grow the business. That's what excites me." - Michelle Accardi

Links and Resources Mentioned in the Show:

• LionGard
• RoarCon Event Details
• Keynote Speaker: Eric O'Neill
• Mentioned Companies: Pax8, NTIVA, The Purple Guys, Ergos, Meriplex

Carrie Richardson and Ian Richardson host the WIN Podcast - What's Important Now?

Serial entrepreneurs, life partners and business partners, they have successfully exited from multiple businesses (IT, call center, real estate, marketing) and they help other business owners create their own versions of success.

Ian is certified in Eagle Center For Leadership Making A Difference, Paterson StratOp, and LifePlan.

Carrie has helped create and execute successful outbound sales strategies for over 1200 technology-focused businesses including MSPs, manufacturers, distributors and SaaS firms.

Learn more at www.foxcrowgroup.com

Book time with either of them here: https://randr.consulting/connect

Be a guest on WIN! We host successful entrepreneurs who share advice with other entrepreneurs on how to build, grow or sell a business using examples from their own experience.

Send us a Text Message.

From Sprint to CEO: Rob Senatore’s Journey with Data2Go Wireless

In this episode of the WIN podcast, host Carrie Richardson interviews Rob Senatore, CEO of Data2Go Wireless.

Rob shares his inspiring journey from being a sales rep at Sprint to becoming the CEO of a thriving wireless company. He discusses the pivotal moments, challenges, and lessons learned along the way, offering valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs. Rob emphasizes the importance of adaptability, team building, and strategic planning in achieving business success.

Episode Highlights:

• Early Career at Sprint: Rob's experience as a sales rep and the influence of small business clients.
• Taking the Plunge: The decision to leave Sprint and start his own business with his wife’s support.
• Major Breakthrough: Involvement in New York City's taxi and limo commission technology upgrade.
• Birth of Data2Go Wireless: Developing a software platform to unify multiple wireless carriers.
• Challenges and Lessons: Early struggles with variable charge items and the importance of prepaid billing engines.
• Financial Wisdom: The value of clean books, strategic budgeting, and transitioning from an LLC to a C Corp.
• Leadership and Team Building: Importance of surrounding oneself with a strong team and trusting their expertise.
• Future Growth: Plans for Data2Go Wireless, including new products and strategic partnerships.

Guest Quotes:

• “You have to process the information correctly. But once you process it... you just have to go with it.”
• “Every mistake that you create for yourself or that you have to go through is going to bring you closer to the goal.”
• “The only thing that's for sure is that things will change and that you have to roll with the punches.”

Guest Information:

• Name: Rob Senatore
• Title: CEO of Data2Go Wireless
• Company Website: Data2Go Wireless

Carrie Richardson and Ian Richardson host the WIN Podcast - What's Important Now?

Serial entrepreneurs, life partners and business partners, they have successfully exited from multiple businesses (IT, call center, real estate, marketing) and they help other business owners create their own versions of success.

Ian is certified in Eagle Center For Leadership Making A Difference, Paterson StratOp, and LifePlan.

Carrie has helped create and execute successful outbound sales strategies for over 1200 technology-focused businesses including MSPs, manufacturers, distributors and SaaS firms.

Learn more at www.foxcrowgroup.com

Book time with either of them here: https://randr.consulting/connect

Be a guest on WIN! We host successful entrepreneurs who share advice with other entrepreneurs on how to build, grow or sell a business using examples from their own experience.

Send us a Text Message.

Bridging the Financial Gap: Rodrigo Acuna on Empowering Latino Communities

In this episode, host Carrie Richardson sits down with Rodrigo Acuna, co-founder of IM Financial, to discuss his journey from Mexico City to the United States, and his passion for empowering Latino communities through financial literacy and inclusion.

Rodrigo shares his experiences in investment banking, consulting, and fintech, highlighting the challenges and opportunities in providing financial services to underserved communities. This insightful conversation covers the importance of education, the impact of mentorship, and the innovative strategies Rodrigo and his team are implementing to bridge the financial gap for Latinos.

Episode Highlights

• Rodrigo’s Background: Growing up in Mexico City, studying economics, and early career in investment banking.
• Career Transition: Moving to the US, working for McKinsey, and navigating the challenges of consulting.
• Financial Literacy Initiatives: Rodrigo’s involvement in teaching financial literacy to disenfranchised communities and school children.
• IM Financial’s Mission: Addressing the financial needs of underserved Latino communities through innovative products and partnerships.
• Personal Stories: Rodrigo’s experiences with financial challenges as an immigrant and his passion for teaching and mentoring.
• Future Goals: Plans for launching IM Financial’s marketplace to provide accessible financial services and education.

Guest Information

Rodrigo Acuna

• Position: Co-founder of IM Financial
• LinkedIn: Rodrigo Acuna
• Twitter: @RodrigoAcuna

Links and Resources Mentioned

• IM Financial: im.financial
• McKinsey & Company: mckinsey.com
• NYU Stern School of Business: stern.nyu.edu
• Morgan Stanley: morganstanley.com

Carrie Richardson and Ian Richardson host the WIN Podcast - What's Important Now?

Serial entrepreneurs, life partners and business partners, they have successfully exited from multiple businesses (IT, call center, real estate, marketing) and they help other business owners create their own versions of success.

Ian is certified in Eagle Center For Leadership Making A Difference, Paterson StratOp, and LifePlan.

Carrie has helped create and execute successful outbound sales strategies for over 1200 technology-focused businesses including MSPs, manufacturers, distributors and SaaS firms.

Learn more at www.foxcrowgroup.com

Book time with either of them here: https://randr.consulting/connect

Be a guest on WIN! We host successful entrepreneurs who share advice with other entrepreneurs on how to build, grow or sell a business using examples from their own experience.

Send us a Text Message.

Hi! It's Carrie - and the beginning of this podcast starts really abruptly because Joe and I started chatting immediately and we completely forgot to do the intro.

I want to remind MSPs that Liongard ROARCon is open for registration now!

Ian and I have limited passes to share, so if it's before July 20 2024 and you are the owner of an MSP that would like to attend, reach out to Carrie on Linkedin!

Joe Alapat is WINNING by Hiring a New CEO

In this engaging episode, Joe Alapat, co-founder of Liongard, shares his journey from being the CEO of an MSP to a pivotal role in a growing software firm. Joe discusses the cultural differences among founders from various countries, the challenges and rewards of cybersecurity, and the strategic shift in Liongard’s focus under new leadership.

Episode Highlights:

• Leadership Transitions: Joe reflects on transitioning from CEO to co-founder and the dynamics of reporting to a new CEO in his own company.
• Family and Work Balance: Joe emphasizes the importance of family and how frequent travel impacts personal life.
• Cybersecurity Focus: The conversation delves into the critical aspect of cybersecurity, emphasizing proactive measures over reactive strategies.
• Product Vision: Joe talks about Liongard's product evolution and the importance of focusing on the original vision to drive innovation and customer satisfaction.

Guest Quotes:

• "People mistake my excitement for anger; it's just a South Indian trait to be passionate and love debating." - Joe Alapat
• "If I'm not speaking, should I go? It's important to balance travel with family time." - Joe Alapat
• "Every dollar spent left of boom is more productive than spending it right of boom." - Joe Alapat
• "Liongard is not Joe Alapat. Liongard is its own entity with its own personality." - Joe Alapat

Guest Information: Joe Alapat is the co-founder of Liongard, a software firm specializing in cybersecurity and IT management. With a background as a CEO of an MSP, Joe brings a wealth of knowledge in managing and securing IT environments at scale. He is passionate about product design, user experience, and driving innovation in cybersecurity.

Links and Resources Mentioned:

• Liongard
• Book: "Crossing the Chasm" by Geoffrey A. Moore

Carrie Richardson and Ian Richardson host the WIN Podcast - What's Important Now?

Serial entrepreneurs, life partners and business partners, they have successfully exited from multiple businesses (IT, call center, real estate, marketing) and they help other business owners create their own versions of success.

Ian is certified in Eagle Center For Leadership Making A Difference, Paterson StratOp, and LifePlan.

Carrie has helped create and execute successful outbound sales strategies for over 1200 technology-focused businesses including MSPs, manufacturers, distributors and SaaS firms.

Learn more at www.foxcrowgroup.com

Book time with either of them here: https://randr.consulting/connect

Be a guest on WIN! We host successful entrepreneurs who share advice with other entrepreneurs on how to build, grow or sell a business using examples from their own experience.

Send us a Text Message.

Christopher Vollmond-Carstens, M&A, NTIVA

In this episode of WIN ("What's Important Now?"), host Carrie Richardson dives into the world of mergers and acquisitions (M&As) within the managed service provider (MSP) industry with Christopher Vollmond-Carstens, M&A Director at NTIVA.

Christopher shares invaluable insights on preparing MSPs for acquisition, the importance of cultural alignment, and the key attributes NTIVA looks for in potential acquisitions. Whether you're an MSP owner considering a sale or simply interested in the M&A landscape, this episode offers practical advice and strategic insights.

Episode Highlights:

• Introduction to NTIVA and its M&A strategy
• The concept of "empire builders" in the MSP space
• Key factors that make NTIVA an attractive partner for MSPs
• Essential criteria for MSPs to be considered for acquisition
• Red flags and deal breakers in potential acquisitions
• Preparing your MSP for sale: Short-term and long-term strategies
• The importance of operational maturity and leadership
• Impact of industry specialization on valuation
• Understanding the M&A process timeline and relationship building
• Current trends and future outlook in the MSP M&A space

Notable Quotes:

• Christopher Vollmond-Carstens: "We exist to grow each other. Technology is the accelerator, but people are at the core."
• Carrie Richardson: "You're not looking for a boat with a hole in the bottom of it."
• Christopher Vollmond-Carstens: "This is not a shotgun Hollywood wedding. This is something that should take time to establish and develop."

Guest Information:

Christopher Vollmond-Carstens is the M&A Director at NTIVA. With a strategic focus on expanding NTIVA's market presence through acquisitions, Christopher brings a wealth of experience in navigating the complexities of M&As in the MSP space.

Links and Resources Mentioned:

• NTIVA Website: NTIVA
• Christopher Vollmand-Carstens LinkedIn: Christopher Vollmand-Carstens
• Service Leadership Industry Benchmarking: Service Leadership

#MSPMergers #BusinessGrowth #NTIVA #MergersAndAcquisitions #ExitStrategy #Leadership #OperationalMaturity #IndustrySpecialization #Pod

Carrie Richardson and Ian Richardson host the WIN Podcast - What's Important Now?

Serial entrepreneurs, life partners and business partners, they have successfully exited from multiple businesses (IT, call center, real estate, marketing) and they help other business owners create their own versions of success.

Ian is certified in Eagle Center For Leadership Making A Difference, Paterson StratOp, and LifePlan.

Carrie has helped create and execute successful outbound sales strategies for over 1200 technology-focused businesses including MSPs, manufacturers, distributors and SaaS firms.

Learn more at www.foxcrowgroup.com

Book time with either of them here: https://randr.consulting/connect

Be a guest on WIN! We host successful entrepreneurs who share advice with other entrepreneurs on how to build, grow or sell a business using examples from their own experience.

Send us a Text Message.

David Dulany, Founder of Tenbound

In this episode of the WIN podcast, host Carrie Richardson sits down with David Dulany, the founder of Tenbound, a premier research and advisory firm in the B2B tech space. They discuss the journey of Tenbound, the evolution of sales technology, and the intricacies of building a successful sales development team. From personal anecdotes to professional insights, David shares invaluable advice for entrepreneurs and sales leaders alike. Tune in to discover the latest trends in sales technology and learn how to navigate the ever-changing landscape of B2B sales.

Episode Highlights:

• [00:01:00] - David's journey from running a sales development team at OpenDNS to founding Tenbound.
• [00:02:00] - The importance of finding a niche and the success of MSP-focused strategies.
• [00:03:00] - Overview of Tenbound's mission and services.
• [00:04:00] - The impact of sales technology on business growth.
• [00:06:00] - Legal and ethical considerations in using sales technology.
• [00:10:00] - Challenges and solutions in training SDRs and managing sales teams.
• [00:12:00] - The pros and cons of parallel dialers and other sales tools.
• [00:16:00] - The evolution of cold calling and telemarketing strategies.
• [00:20:00] - Insights into entrepreneurship and the importance of product-market fit.
• [00:24:00] - Predictions for the future of sales technology and practical advice for building a sales team.

Memorable Quotes:

• "Finding product market fit is everything, whether it's product market fit or service." - David Dulany
• "You don't need a hundred different tools, and the way that people manage the technology is problematic." - David Dulany
• "If you're the smartest person in the room, then you're in the wrong room." - David Dulany

Guest Information:

David Dulany is the founder of Tenbound, a research and advisory firm focused on sales development and technology. With a rich background in sales and marketing, David has been instrumental in shaping the B2B tech landscape through innovative strategies and cutting-edge solutions. Connect with David on LinkedIn.

Links and Resources Mentioned:

• Tenbound: Website
• OpenDNS: Website
• Delegate Solutions:

Carrie Richardson and Ian Richardson host the WIN Podcast - What's Important Now?

Serial entrepreneurs, life partners and business partners, they have successfully exited from multiple businesses (IT, call center, real estate, marketing) and they help other business owners create their own versions of success.

Ian is certified in Eagle Center For Leadership Making A Difference, Paterson StratOp, and LifePlan.

Carrie has helped create and execute successful outbound sales strategies for over 1200 technology-focused businesses including MSPs, manufacturers, distributors and SaaS firms.

Learn more at www.foxcrowgroup.com

Book time with either of them here: https://randr.consulting/connect

Be a guest on WIN! We host successful entrepreneurs who share advice with other entrepreneurs on how to build, grow or sell a business using examples from their own experience.