Business & Bytes Podcast

"Our goal is to keep jobs that are there, and that helps in the communities I'm working with, because we're bringing outside money that comes into the community. They buy things like food and lodging and those things, and, and leave their money there to go to shops and buy things, et cetera, and then they leave. But they help those jobs and businesses stay in business."
 
Welcome to EP10 of the Business and Bytes Podcast, where today's episode features an enriching discussion with George Sharp from the Thurston EDC.
 
We're set to explore the dual narrative of George's life as a community builder and economic driver for small towns, as well as his personal tale of resilience and positivity in the face of a challenging kidney health journey. George Sharp utilizes his extensive experience in entrepreneurship and economic development to revitalize communities, orchestrating events and initiatives that not only showcase the charm of small towns but also stimulate local business growth.
 
Despite his own health obstacles, including navigating the intricacies of dialysis and the kidney transplant list, George maintains a powerful positive mental attitude that inspires all those around him. In addition to George's story, we will also discuss key learnings from our recent conference attendance, including the "profit first" approach and cybersecurity tips vital for today's businesses.
 
Join hosts John Hansman and Emelio Mejia for a moving and motivational episode that merges profound personal insight with actionable business wisdom.
 
Support the show by subscribing to our Facebook Account: https://www.facebook.com/businessandbytes
 
Timestamps for your reference:
00:00 Entrepreneurial high schooler switches to college briefly.04:35 Prank calls caused loss of $45,000.09:06 Monthly meetings to discuss community development efforts.12:48 Tonano arts market helped artisans during COVID.14:20 32 artisans create huge success in downtown.18:09 Online training and coaching program for businesses.22:27 Get local economic development counseling to grow.25:44 Advocate for businesses, engage with local chamber.29:11 Praising positive mindset and resilience in adversity.31:54 Adopted plant-based diet, delayed dialysis for 2.5 years.34:50 Patient gets transplant call for donor kidney.39:04 Gratitude, positive attitude despite challenges, love for life.42:32 Belief in purpose, inspiring others through journey.43:24 Friend's daughter credits George for medical decision.48:55 Reenergized by talk, excited to see speaker.50:04 Garrett Gunderson's talk expanded my wealth perspective.54:02 Planning changes in strategy and personal growth.57:04 "Be cautious and check before clicking links.
 
You can reach George at gsharp@thurstonedc.com.

"The smart way, it really doesn't require you to, you know, start with so much money. So I started. I bought a 97 astro van, right? I didn't know if that thing was going to turn on the next day. I bought all my equipment new, you know, but I was like, you know what? I need to start this way and work my way up. You know, a lot of guys, they think that they have to, like, show or portray this image of, like, they're, like, super successful, you know, and clients, they're not really looking at that, at least. What, from what I've experienced, you know, as long as you're a person that says, hey, I'm gonna be there at this time, and you show up at that time, you actually say what you're gonna do. Clients are gonna be there whether you drive a 97 astro van or, you know, 2023, you know, all decked out, you know, Van."
 
Welcome to the Business and Bytes Podcast, where we delve into the heart of entrepreneurship and digital innovation. In this episode, Emelio Mejia reconnects with an old friend and guest, Jesus De Lardilles, to discuss the highs and lows of being a solopreneur.
 
Jesus shares his transformative journey from the banking industry to establishing Miami Premium Enterprise, offering insights into the shift from corporate to the autonomy of running one's own business. We'll cover critical topics like cybersecurity, the digital footprint of businesses, and the crucial aspects of fostering a robust company culture.
 
Our conversation will touch upon the significance of perseverance, highlighted by a nod to Calvin Coolidge's thoughts on persistence, and the balance between financial prudence and business expansion. As Jesus recounts his experiences with burnout, client interactions, and strategic shifts in his business model, listeners will gain valuable lessons on resilience, the importance of a well-defined business purpose, and the strategies that can drive a business's success.
 
Tune in to EP09: Jesus De Lardilles | The Solopreneur Story for a dose of inspiration and practical advice for any business journey.
 
Support the show by subscribing to our Facebook Account: https://www.facebook.com/businessandbytes
 
Timestamps for your reference:
00:00 Podcast host thanks guest and discusses interview.04:11 Banking experience impacted service transition to entrepreneurship.08:44 Start small, clients care about reliability.13:00 Rebooted business with new mindset and guidance.14:48 Coaches help gain competitive edge in business.19:49 Prioritized clients, growth through quality over quantity.21:00 Social media crucial for business growth and trust.25:19 People losing trust over petty theft experiences.27:30 Company success: pay employees well, create good culture.31:58 Entrepreneurship offers confidence to pivot industries.35:52 Building trust with clients through personal engagement.39:04 Entrepreneur shares importance of having a big "why".42:28 Surround yourself with the right people, succeed.44:32 Miami Premium Enterprise provides comprehensive vehicle detailing.48:59 Thoroughly monitoring email system is crucial.51:17 Book about hacking, client gave info away.54:09 Security breach detected, but minimal data compromised.57:49 Exciting digital marketing plans for Facebook content.

"I mean, that's really my main purpose is growing the business, you know, for people that I work with, because just as a business owner myself, I started this, and I know how much work it takes to keep up with it."
 
Welcome back to the Business and Bytes Podcast! I'm your host John Hansman, joined by the ever-insightful Emelio Mejia. In today's episode, EP08, we're excited to dive deep with Rachael Harrpersad, a seasoned virtual assistant all the way from sunny Florida, to explore how having a virtual assistant can help propel your business to new heights. Rachael will unpack the virtues of confidentiality agreements, the art of using effective communication to streamline your operations, and the nuances of virtual assistance when it comes to dealing with tasks like social media management.
This episode isn't just about getting help; it's about integrating a virtual teammate who brings loyalty and a personalized touch to the job—touching on the differences between local and foreign virtual assistants, and how geographical reach and cultural understanding are pivotal in serving your audience.
We'll also switch gears to discuss a hot topic in the tech world: cybersecurity. The recent AnyDesk security breach serves as our case study to underscore why robust security measures are paramount for services catering to businesses. Plus, we'll share details on CloudStrike's involvement and AnyDesk's response to the incident. 
So whether you’re looking to scale your business with a VA, safeguard your data against cyber threats, or just stay ahead of industry trends, you're in the right place. Stay tuned as we offer you a mix of professional insights, practical tips, and crucial updates here on Business and Bytes. Let's get started!
 
Support the show by subscribing to our Facebook Account: https://www.facebook.com/businessandbytes
 
Timestamps for your reference:
00:00 Diverse services offered, willing to learn new skills.05:48 Offering social media and scheduling services for business growth.08:36 Offshore assistants lack personal and business connection.11:27 VA works with various businesses, consider expertise, confidentiality.14:47 Protect yourself with confidentiality agreements when hiring.19:00 Clear instructions and communication are essential.23:18 Flexible availability for potential client scheduling needs.25:50 Vas offer diverse services and connections.28:48 AI should complement, not replace virtual assistants.31:06 Using paid version for graphics, challenges with text.37:15 AnyDesk is a major player in various markets.39:24 "Scammer Payback on YouTube exposes real scams."43:02 Prepare for and recover from cyber attacks.44:40 Tokens created on end user's device for security.49:49 Excited to be here. Thanks for watching.50:51 Wishing all a good day!
 

"Because I think there's this myth, especially in small business. Well, I've got a McAfee on all my computers, so I'm great. Or I have. Okay, passwords. I don't use the same password over and over again, so I'm great. Or no one's going to remember my 123456 password, or, you know, all of those things, or this stuff just doesn't happen to small businesses, so I'm good."
 
In this insightful episode of the Business and Bytes Podcast, co-hosts John Hansman and Emelio Mejia delve into the essential topic of creating a strong cybersecurity culture to protect businesses of all sizes.
 
The episode, titled "EP07 - Guarding Your Business: Creating a Strong Cyber Security Culture," opens with a cautionary tale from Emelio about a hacking incident that serves as a stark reminder of our digital vulnerabilities. Emelio generously offers listeners a free chapter from his book on cybersecurity awareness, emphasizing the importance of knowledge and vigilance.
 
The co-hosts discuss the necessity of continuous training to combat the ever-evolving threat landscape, underscoring the challenges leaders face in prioritizing cybersecurity within larger organizations. Sharing anecdotes, including a client’s compromised social media and shopping accounts, the hosts stress the importance of using password managers and following security protocols.
 
They draw parallels between cybersecurity measures and car safety features, advocating for a multifaceted approach to risk mitigation. The episode also highlights the exciting lineup of upcoming guests, ranging from tax professionals to digital marketing experts.
 
Listeners are encouraged to follow the Business and Bytes page for live-stream updates and to contribute to the podcast’s growth by leaving reviews on platforms, especially Apple. With an emphasis on engaging training methods, such as gamification and regular briefings, John and Emelio discuss strategies to instill a robust cybersecurity culture that extends beyond mere compliance and effectively shields businesses from potential threats.
 
Support the show by subscribing to our Facebook Account: https://www.facebook.com/businessandbytes
 
Timestamps for your reference:
00:00 Focus on creating a cyber safe culture.07:23 Encouraging cultural growth and long-term information retention.09:05 Agreed on client's training plan for team.13:57 Fostering positive workplace culture and behavior change.15:02 Weekly trainings help employees make informed decisions.19:01 Regular training crucial due to evolving threats.21:56 Leadership influences employee attitude and behavior.27:29 Improving efficiency, balancing security and convenience.30:48 Mitigate risk by taking necessary precautions.32:45 Promotion of book and cybersecurity awareness training.38:25 CPA for taxes, VA benefits, entrepreneur and marketing.39:10 Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn for updates.

"Create a database. So, meaning creating this database of contact information where you're collecting phone numbers, email addresses, business cards, you're getting people's info so that you can continue to nurture that relationship. Doesn't matter what type of business you're in. If you have a website, have some type of form there where you can capture info."
 
Welcome back to Business and Bytes, where your hosts John Hansman, Lindsey Badillo, and Emelio Mejia come together to discuss the electrifying world of marketing and business growth. In this episode, "EP06 - Lindsey Badillo - Marketing Coach | How to Supercharge your Marketing," we delve into the journey of a business from its initial traction to the pivotal stage of predictability, where informed decisions shape the future.
 
Cybersecurity stands at the forefront of the IT services conversation – a crucial aspect of today's business operations that cannot be overlooked. Lindsey shares her transformation from educator to marketing maestro, offering insights on empowering business owners and igniting a drive to succeed. We also share invaluable networking strategies, debunk myths of instant marketing results, and tease upcoming topics chosen by you, our audience.
 
Make sure to join the dialogue and enrich your marketing savvy in our Facebook group, "Market Like a Millionaire." This episode is packed with wisdom to fuel your entrepreneurial journey and expand your business horizons.
 
Get set for an episode brimming with insights and inspiration here on Business and Bytes!
 
Support the show by subscribing to our Facebook Account: https://www.facebook.com/businessandbytes
 
Timestamps for your reference:
00:00 Increasing marketing efforts, appreciating Lindsey's contributions.04:01 Life experiences lead to entrepreneurial spirit in business.09:26 Entrepreneur works on business in Starbucks, sees success.11:48 Encouraging children to explore entrepreneurship and independence.16:25 Addressing personal mindset for business ownership success.18:41 Recognizing flaws, navigating ego, and delegating effectively.21:17 Chris and I did a workshop in New Jersey to help business owners increase revenue.26:03 Maximizing marketing to sales activity through data capture.27:25 Setting up coffee chat for potential connections.32:28 B and I promotes givers gain principle.34:25 Instant results through paycheck, business requires traction.37:36 Mental and spiritual self-care essential for success.42:45 Find expertise, own it, scale, delegate, orchestrate.43:23 Life presents evolving challenges, including work-life balance.48:33 It company must prioritize cybersecurity for themselves.51:32 IT companies should prioritize cybersecurity discussions.54:57 Excited about passionate guests discussing business strategies.56:38 Promote podcast on various platforms and social media.
 

"I believe that cyber security training really needs to be a cultural shift in businesses. And it needs to be something that's done not just once a year, but maybe have, like, the security training we use has a once a year longer format program, and then it has micro trainings throughout the year."
 
Welcome to Episode 5 of the Business and Bytes Podcast, "Why is Cyber Security Training so important?" with your hosts Emelio Mejia and John Hansman. Today we unpack the critical necessity of cybersecurity training in the modern business world.
 
As the threat landscape evolves with tactics like deepfake technology and phishing scams, we delve into why a once-a-year training seminar is simply not enough. It's about fostering a corporate culture that not only prioritizes cybersecurity from the top down but implements continuous, engaging, and effective educational strategies.
 
We'll also highlight the significant consequences of a cybersecurity breach and compare them to the minimal investment in regular employee training. From management buy-in to using gamification, we leave no stone unturned, emphasizing the role of employee education alongside robust cybersecurity software.
 
Join us as we explore this pressing topic, and don't forget to follow us for future episodes where you'll hear from various experts, learn about business success stories, and gain insights into growing your business securely in the digital age.
 
 
Support the show by subscribing to our Facebook Account: https://www.facebook.com/businessandbytes
 
Timestamps for your reference:
00:00 Author of cybersecurity chapter in IT book.04:49 Owners need to lead by example in security.09:08 Pushing without management buy-in, using gamification.13:25 Need management support for team-wide compliance effort.14:40 Encourage ownership to overcome pushback and unify.19:13 Online security and diligence are essential.23:45 Human nature to ignore problems until necessary.25:36 Wife at bank stops scam with questions.28:15 AI improves language proficiency for non-native speakers.31:59 Cybersecurity awareness important for work and home.35:57 Seeking business entrepreneurs for valuable podcast interviews.37:42 Stay tuned for upcoming guest schedules. Follow us!
 
 

"You need to know how to do the job as much as that person needs to. And that's... that's kind of a thing with a recruiter, is you've got to know. You've got to talk the lingo, you know, that kind of stuff that this person's going to do."
 
Welcome back to the Business and Bytes Podcast! I'm your host John Hansman, joined by my co-host Emelio Mejia, and today is a special day as we're releasing our latest episode available now on Apple Podcasts, and coming soon to Spotify and Amazon. We've got a jam-packed episode for you this Monday morning. Please, don't forget to leave us your reviews as they help us reach more ears and support more small and medium-sized businesses!
In this episode, EP04, we're excited to welcome Nick Crider from Insight Staffing Group to dive deep into the art of finding the right talent for your business, especially in sectors like mining and heavy industry. We'll unpack the challenges of hiring in a competitive job market, the benefits of working with recruiters, and the key strategies to avoid getting overwhelmed by job applications.
We also touch on the cultural shifts in work environments and the ever-pressing issue of cybersecurity, sharing anecdotes on the quirky side of job interviews and hiring. With an emphasis on creating a security-focused culture, we'll share why 95% of cybersecurity breaches are human-caused and the significance of continuous training to mitigate this risk. So, make sure your MFA is tight and your passwords updated as we get ready to navigate the intricacies of business, staffing, and staying cyber-secure in this thrilling new episode of Business and Bytes. Let's get started!
 
Support the show by subscribing to our Facebook Account: https://www.facebook.com/businessandbytes
 
Timestamps for your reference:
00:00 Peers discuss people not showing up to work.04:23 Recruiter emphasizes tools, market relevance, and engagement.09:45 Hiring process ensures fit, experience, and screening.13:49 Indeed's testing offers valuable, but not definitive, insight.14:30 "Know the job and the person doing it."20:28 Interviews should be a fun, open conversation.23:45 Transition to work from home became normal.25:10 Does personality matter in job performance?29:06 Recruiters help with interview preparation and guidance.33:03 Education crucial for small business cybersecurity culture.35:22 Advocates continuous security training and team involvement.40:23 Third-party vendor compromised, jeopardizing Xfinity's data.44:40 Weekly tips for 2024 to protect businesses.46:34 Seeking reviews to support podcast growth. Protecting businesses.48:26 Successful show four, see you again soon!
 
Contact Nick Crider - https://www.insightstaffinggroup.com/ | nick.crider@insightstaffinggroup.com
 

"Let's be reasonable. But if we missed it, we have a conversation about, hey, what happened? What can we do to kind of avoid that? Because that's the best thing we got going for us, is that responsiveness, that care, that attention, that conscientiousness."
 
Welcome back to the Business and Bytes Podcast! I'm your host John Hansman, alongside my co-host Emelio Mejia. Today, in Episode 3, we'll be diving deep into the art of hiring and creating a thriving work culture with our special guest, Kevin Hayward, a seasoned State Farm agency owner from Lacey, Washington.
Kevin has been mastering the craft of building a strong team for over a decade, and he's here to share his structured assessment process that prioritizes motivation and urgency in candidates. We'll unpack his meticulous interview strategies — from the initial handshake to the follow-up call with references — and discuss how these methods contribute to his impressive track record of hiring reliable individuals.
Emelio will shed light on his innovative post-hiring techniques, while I'll be probing into how Kevin fosters a proactive and engaged team culture. We'll explore how Kevin's hands-on approach has empowered his employees not just to excel in their roles but also to prepare them for future success – highlighting a case where a former employee was inspired to open her own State Farm office.
Plus, stay tuned as we navigate through the aftermath of a significant data breach and reinforce the importance of cybersecurity in your business. It's a jam-packed episode filled with enriching discussions and takeaways designed to elevate your entrepreneurial journey.
So whether you're looking to refine your hiring process, boost your work culture, or just fishing for some expert tips on employee development and cyber protection, you've landed at the right place.
Let's get started on Episode 3 of the Business and Bytes Podcast, with Kevin Hayward – where every byte of business knowledge counts. Don't forget to follow us on Facebook for the latest updates and episodes! Let's roll!
 
Support the show by subscribing to our Facebook Account: https://www.facebook.com/businessandbytes
 
Timestamps for your reference:
00:00 Friend Kevin, trusted insurance agent, business journey.05:44 Grateful for success despite challenges and turnover.08:13 Failed hiring process, learning from past mistakes.12:40 Using Zoom for interview provides better insight.15:57 Thorough interview process focuses on important details.17:54 Pre-hiring process: video responses and self-presentation.22:47 Encouraging accountability, support and empowerment in leadership.24:21 Balancing friendliness and professionalism in customer service.29:17 Young employee shows grit, joins family business.31:54 Encouraging ambition and growth in office staff.34:52 Learning process shows dedication and character assessment.37:46 Creating culture for employees and customers' satisfaction.42:58 Cyber attackers are improving phishing attacks.47:01 Seeking audience engagement and guest recommendations.48:16 Excited for it, see you next week!
 
To Contact Kevin -(360) 459-2277/ https://www.laceywainsurance.com/