The Confident Entrepreneur With Jennifer Ann Johnson
Jennifer Ann Johnson
195 episodes
3 days ago
Want a business that lasts longer than the latest trend? In this episode, we sit down with seasoned CEO and board chair Theo Etzel to unpack what truly drives sustainable growth: people-first leadership, ethical compensation, living SOPs, and technology that supports—rather than complicates—the work. Theo shares how prioritizing employees, customers, and partners builds a flywheel of trust, referrals, and retention. We explore culture as your operating system (not just a poster), how to align...
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Want a business that lasts longer than the latest trend? In this episode, we sit down with seasoned CEO and board chair Theo Etzel to unpack what truly drives sustainable growth: people-first leadership, ethical compensation, living SOPs, and technology that supports—rather than complicates—the work. Theo shares how prioritizing employees, customers, and partners builds a flywheel of trust, referrals, and retention. We explore culture as your operating system (not just a poster), how to align...
Want a business that lasts longer than the latest trend? In this episode, we sit down with seasoned CEO and board chair Theo Etzel to unpack what truly drives sustainable growth: people-first leadership, ethical compensation, living SOPs, and technology that supports—rather than complicates—the work. Theo shares how prioritizing employees, customers, and partners builds a flywheel of trust, referrals, and retention. We explore culture as your operating system (not just a poster), how to align...
Growth doesn’t have to mean burnout or losing your business identity. In this episode, Joe Nugent of Joe the Home Pro shares how building on values like relentless service, clear communication, and rigorous systems helped him scale from side hustle to multi-market brand—without sacrificing quality. We unpack his four pillars—service, ethics, communication, and community—and how they show up in real practices like hiring for fit, fast client response, and simplifying complex topics. Joe dives ...
Growth gets easier when your business stops operating in a vacuum and starts investing in the community it serves. In this episode, I break down how doing good becomes a strategic engine for brand trust, stronger networks, energized teams, and meaningful innovation, without stretching your budget or bandwidth. I walk you through the four pillars of community-driven growth: building a values-based brand, expanding your network through smart partnerships, boosting team morale with purpose, and ...
What do you do when a competitor opens nearby, or your invoices pile up and cash flow stalls? This week’s guest, Cotrenia Hood, CEO of Steel Bleu, brings clarity to the chaos with a step-by-step plan for scaling sustainably—without losing your sanity. With a background spanning Fortune 500 business development, chamber leadership, and her Women of Steel network, Cotrenia helps founders turn pressure into progress. She walks us through rethinking competition as a learning opportunity, tighteni...
Branding has already changed—today’s winners lead with trust, clarity, and a human voice. In this episode, branding coach Samantha McGinley breaks down the shift from logo-first to identity-led brands built for a social-first world. We dive into defining your ideal customer, using psychology in design, and building a brand that’s authentic and intentional. Samantha also reveals common traps—from creating content for yourself instead of your audience to rushing into personal branding—and how t...
Relationships aren’t a side quest in business—they’re the main storyline. In this episode, we explore why meaningful connections are the true growth engine behind loyalty, opportunity, and fulfillment. Forget surface-level networking. We’re talking about how to build deep trust through habits like authenticity, consistency, empathy, and mutual benefit. You’ll learn what actually works: active listening that makes people feel seen, thoughtful follow-ups that leave an impression (yes, including...
What really happens when a business tries to scale? Whether I'm doubling, tripling, or aiming for 10x growth, I’ve learned that scaling isn’t just about increasing numbers—it’s about transforming how the entire business operates. In this episode, I’m sharing the difference between simple growth and true scaling—where revenue grows faster than costs—and what it really takes to get there. From building a solid foundation and streamlining operations to hiring ahead and protecting company culture...
Struggling to grow your business but can’t afford pricey consultants? Discover a powerful, often-overlooked resource: the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at FGCU. Regional Director Dorian Zwierewicz explains how this taxpayer-funded program offers completely free, expert support for entrepreneurs at every stage. Founded in 1976 to fill a gap for small businesses—who create half of U.S. jobs—the SBDC provides confidential guidance on business planning, funding, marketing, and more. Th...
Feeling stuck on the entrepreneurial hamster wheel? In this episode, I break down the critical difference between working in your business versus on it—and why this mindset shift is key to breaking through your growth ceiling. Like many passionate business owners, I know what it’s like to wear all the hats—handling every task from client calls to coffee runs. But that level of hands-on hustle eventually becomes a bottleneck. If your business depends entirely on your time and energy, it can on...
Ever felt like a fraud despite your achievements? That quiet fear that you’ve fooled everyone into thinking you’re more capable than you are? That’s imposter syndrome—and you’re far from alone. Meet Roxy Nicolussi, founder of the Big Bold Company. Her life shifted with one “accidental bold move”—a misunderstanding in a job interview turned her into a six-figure business owner overnight. More than just a financial leap, it changed how she saw herself. Roxy’s journey highlights how women often ...
"It’s not what you know, it’s who you know." This timeless truth is more relevant than ever in today’s business world. While your expertise and experience are important, it’s often your relationships that drive growth, opportunity, and confidence. In this episode, I dive into the power of authentic networking—not the surface-level kind, but the meaningful connections that lead to real collaboration, support, and visibility. You’ll learn why networking is more than just collecting contacts—it...
Could authorship be the missing piece in your growth strategy? If you're struggling to stand out or want to showcase your expertise in a powerful way, writing a book might be the business tool you've overlooked. Publishing expert April O'Leary reveals how a book is far more than a personal milestone—it’s a gateway to speaking gigs, media features, and high-value clients. Think of it as “the coffee date” for your brand: a friendly, non-salesy way to build trust and credibility. Worried about t...
Why do some entrepreneurs leap ahead while others struggle for years? The answer may be simpler than you think—mentorship. From Mark Zuckerberg and Steve Jobs to Oprah Winfrey and Maya Angelou, many leaders credit mentors for helping them bypass pitfalls, gain fresh perspectives, and unlock opportunities they never knew existed. A great mentor offers more than advice—they share hard-won wisdom, open doors, and believe in your potential before you fully believe in yourself. Finding the right m...
What if your personal evolution is the key to business success? Meet Kareen Walsh, the "business healer" who helps entrepreneurs grow by aligning inner work with strategy. Kareen invites us to see business not as identity, but as a vehicle to build the life we want. Her EVOLVE method—Evaluate, Visualize, Own, Leverage, Validate, Exit—guides leaders through intentional, sustainable growth rooted in clarity and self-awareness. She also shares advice for navigating comparison, turning envy into ...
What keeps entrepreneurs up at night? Legal risks. Instead of a defense attorney, we bring you Chris Roberts—a top consumer litigator who files lawsuits against businesses. He shares what actually triggers legal action and how to avoid costly mistakes. From surprising penalties tied to telemarketing laws to real-world stories like helping a client win $225K after being trapped in a predatory loan, Roberts offers insider advice on preventing lawsuits. Learn how to protect your business with sm...
What happens when a law school hopeful ends up leading a roofing company? Meet Hannah Vogel, who pivoted during the pandemic into the male-dominated construction industry—without any prior experience. From knocking on doors to facing blatant sexism, Hannah shares how confidence became her superpower. She reveals how women bring fresh strengths to trades—like marketing, organization, and client relationships—and makes a bold case for rethinking what success looks like in blue-collar careers. H...
Ready to turn your LinkedIn profile into a powerful business driver? Whether you're just starting out or leading a growing brand, LinkedIn offers game-changing opportunities for visibility, networking, and lead generation. Your profile isn’t just a resume—it’s your digital handshake. A pro headshot, compelling headline, and story-driven "About" section can significantly boost engagement. Strategic keyword use also enhances your discoverability. With 700M+ users, LinkedIn is a goldmine for rel...
Leading your business can be isolating—when there’s no one to share your thoughts with, it’s easy to feel alone at the top. Dr. Elizabeth Stroot, founder of Core Wellness and Physical Therapy, joins us to explore the power of building an entrepreneurial tribe. With over 20 years in health and fitness, Elizabeth highlights how true sisterhood supports both wellbeing and success. She distinguishes between networking and tribe-building—where your tribe is a space of safety and authenticity, not ...
Why do some entrepreneurs soar while others stall, even with the same skills and opportunities? It often comes down to one powerful factor: their business circle. In this episode, I dive into how the people around you shape your mindset, fuel your growth, and influence your success. You'll learn who to surround yourself with—from mentors and peers to visionaries and challengers—and how to build a network that elevates you. Ready to evaluate your circle and make the shift that could change eve...
Professional speaking could be the growth catalyst your business needs. Taking the stage—live or virtual—builds authority and forges deeper connections than digital marketing alone. When you speak, you're not just sharing knowledge; you're positioning yourself as a trusted expert. Like Gary Vaynerchuk, who built influence through impactful talks, you can leverage speaking to showcase your unique voice. Start by identifying your niche and seek out panels, webinars, or local business events to ...
The Confident Entrepreneur With Jennifer Ann Johnson
Want a business that lasts longer than the latest trend? In this episode, we sit down with seasoned CEO and board chair Theo Etzel to unpack what truly drives sustainable growth: people-first leadership, ethical compensation, living SOPs, and technology that supports—rather than complicates—the work. Theo shares how prioritizing employees, customers, and partners builds a flywheel of trust, referrals, and retention. We explore culture as your operating system (not just a poster), how to align...
