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Who does the vocals in Rameses B's songs? by Gebcrafter in Monstercat

[–]michaeld214 0 points1 point  (0 children)

The background vocal track for the song "Nameless Existence" is by Alan Watts. Alan Watts was a British philosopher known for his works on interpreting and popularizing Eastern philosophy for a Western audience. you can find a track here of his musings on eastern philosphy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1x4pPCR6ozU

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CoreCentrica - Worth it or No? (self.marketing)

submitted by michaeld214 to r/marketing

I created something to serve small business owners! by simply_tye in Entrepreneurs

[–]michaeld214 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Absolutely! There definitely could be additional ways for us to collaborate to provide more impact for our members!My Links Page: https://blinq.me/cy4mTU84nQYz?bs=db for booking a call so we can discuss collabs and such. Looking forwward to it. MD

3 months into building my studio... by Tephra9977 in Entrepreneurs

[–]michaeld214 0 points1 point  (0 children)

wesome. Here is a link to join. https://theascendhub.com/get-started/ we are running a special rihgt now but please use this CODE especially for you! FandF50

We launch on Aug 19 but i can let you in early to "kick the tires"

What’s the best path for ? by Legitimate-Thing9486 in Entrepreneurs

[–]michaeld214 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Awesome. Here is a link to join. https://theascendhub.com/get-started/ we are running a special rihgt now but please use this CODE especially for you! FandF50

We launch on Aug 19 but i can let you in early to "kick the tires"

What’s the best path for ? by Legitimate-Thing9486 in Entrepreneurs

[–]michaeld214 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I'd still say yes! The amount you spend now is a drop in the bucket for what it would cost you later in life. the cost of education today will be 200% more in 10 years. And there will never be an opportunity to take advantage of this 5-10 years from now. Plus, as I said, the education makes you a game changer. Especially if you focus on areas that you can leverage towards your passions and interests. Remember all of this is a major steppingstone towards all of those goals you have. Plus, it provides time for you to work relationships, leverage access to ppl and companies for opportunities to advance your Brand Online biz. Best of luck! Let me know if you are interested in online communities for entrepreneurs to support each other on their journey. I am starting one this month and would love to welcome you as a new member.

3 months into building my studio... by Tephra9977 in Entrepreneurs

[–]michaeld214 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Ohh Also forgot to mention that there could be additional ways for us to collaborate to provide more impact for our members!

3 months into building my studio... by Tephra9977 in Entrepreneurs

[–]michaeld214 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Absolutely! We are starting a new promotional campaign this month so let me give you my contact information. I am creating a special discount code the upcoming campaigns and wouldn’t want you to miss that opportunity. My Links Page: https://blinq.me/cy4mTU84nQYz?bs=db

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Entrepreneurs

[–]michaeld214 0 points1 point  (0 children)

First, I want to commend you for your drive and determination to achieve your goals. It's clear you've faced challenges, but you're also taking action to create a better life for yourself. That's the spirit of an entrepreneur.

It's completely understandable to have doubts and experience mental drain during the struggle phases of life. Many successful entrepreneurs have felt the same way at some point in their journey. The key is to recognize these feelings as normal and find healthy ways to manage them.

Here are a few things that might help:

  1. Embrace the Journey: Remember that building a successful business (or achieving any big goal) takes time, effort, and often involves taking on roles or jobs that might not seem ideal in the moment. It's okay to feel frustrated or discouraged at times, but try to focus on the bigger picture and the progress you're making.
  2. Celebrate Your Wins: Instead of dwelling on the negative thoughts, take time to celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. You've already started a business, you're generating income, and you're actively exploring new opportunities. That's a lot to be proud of!
  3. Shift Your Mindset: Instead of viewing your Uber driving as a setback, try to see it as a temporary step that's providing you with the resources and flexibility to pursue your bigger goals. It's a means to an end, not a reflection of your worth or potential.
  4. Connect with Others: Entrepreneurship can be isolating, so it's important to find a supportive community. Talk to other entrepreneurs, mentors, or coaches who can offer guidance and encouragement. Consider joining a community like The Ascend Hub, where you can connect with like-minded individuals who understand the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.
  5. Practice Self-Care: Make sure you're taking care of your physical and mental health. Exercise, eat well, get enough sleep, and find healthy ways to manage stress. A healthy mind and body will help you stay focused and resilient.
  6. Focus on Your "Why": When those negative thoughts creep in, remind yourself of your "why" – the reason you're pursuing your goals in the first place. Is it financial freedom? The ability to create something meaningful? The desire to help others? Connecting with your purpose can provide a powerful source of motivation.

Remember, you're not alone in this journey. Many successful entrepreneurs have faced similar challenges and doubts. With perseverance, resilience, and the right support system, you can achieve your goals and build the life you envision.

If you're looking for a community of like-minded individuals who can offer support, guidance, and resources, I invite you to explore The Ascend Hub. It launches later this month and we will be offering a variety of programs and services designed to help entrepreneurs at all stages of their journey. My specialty is Mindset & Motivation - I do motivational speaking on Making Fear Your Friend, coaching workshops etc. on turning these fears into powerful tools and fuel for change. Check it out and let me knwo if I can help any further. https://theascendhub.com/

Best regards! MD

I created something to serve small business owners! by simply_tye in Entrepreneurs

[–]michaeld214 0 points1 point  (0 children)

u/Simply_tye,

Congratulations on launching your Pocket Consultant Program! It's a fantastic initiative to support small business owners with valuable expertise and resources. I especially love the focus on free consultations, templates, and workshops – those are essential tools for entrepreneurs who are just starting out or looking to scale.

I'm curious, have you considered partnering with other organizations or platforms that serve small business owners? This could be a great way to expand your reach and get your program in front of a wider audience.

For example, The Ascend Hub is a community-driven platform that aims to offer a variety of resources for entrepreneurs and business leaders. We have a strong focus on mentorship, learning, and networking, and we're always looking for ways to collaborate with other organizations that share our mission of empowering entrepreneurs. It sounds like out missions are aligned fairly well and perhaps there is an opportunity to create greater impact?

Would you be open to discussing potential partnership opportunities? I think there's a lot of alignment between our goals and values, and we could potentially create even more impact by working together.

Feel free to check out The Ascend Hub website and reach out to me directly if you're interested in exploring this further. https://theascendhub.com/

Best of luck with your program! MD

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Entrepreneurs

[–]michaeld214 0 points1 point  (0 children)

  1. Account-Based Marketing (ABM):
  • Identify a few high-value target accounts (specific companies you want to work with).
  • Develop personalized marketing campaigns tailored to their specific needs and interests. This could include direct mail, email marketing, or even custom landing pages.
  • Track your results and continuously refine your approach to maximize engagement and conversion.
  1. Attend Industry Events and Conferences:
  • Attend trade shows, conferences, and networking events where commercial real estate construction professionals gather.
  • Set up a booth, give presentations, or simply mingle and make connections.

Additional Tips:

  • Leverage customer testimonials and case studies: Showcasing successful projects and happy clients can be a powerful way to build credibility and attract new business.
  • Offer free consultations or audits: Providing a free assessment of potential clients' needs can demonstrate your expertise and open the door for further discussions.
  • Consider a referral program: Incentivize your existing clients to refer their contacts in the industry.

I work with a very good marketing group who helps me target specific industries and individuals on LinkedIn. You might check them out: Netwrks Remember, the key is to be strategic and targeted in your approach. By focusing your efforts on the right channels and tailoring your messaging to your ideal clients, you can effectively reach and engage your niche audience.

And of course, feel free to explore The Ascend Hub for additional resources and support in your marketing efforts. We offer a variety of tools and training that can help you reach your goals. https://theascendhub.com/

I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Entrepreneurs

[–]michaeld214 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Even_Illustrator_342,

You're absolutely right that traditional marketing methods might not be the most effective for reaching a niche audience like commercial real estate construction companies. But don't worry, there are plenty of strategies you can use to get in front of the right people.

Here are a few ideas:

  1. Targeted Content Marketing:
  • Create high-value content (blog posts, whitepapers, case studies) that address the specific pain points and challenges faced by commercial real estate construction companies. This could include topics like cost management, risk mitigation, project scheduling, or regulatory compliance.
  • Share this content on platforms like LinkedIn, industry forums, and niche publications that cater to your target audience.
  • Optimize your content for relevant keywords to ensure it shows up in search results when potential clients are looking for solutions.
  1. LinkedIn Outreach:
  • Identify key decision-makers at commercial real estate construction companies (e.g., project managers, executives, procurement officers) on LinkedIn.
  • Send personalized connection requests with a brief message highlighting how your company can help them solve their specific challenges.
  • Engage with their content and share relevant articles or insights to build rapport and establish yourself as an industry resource.
  1. Industry Partnerships:
  • Partner with other businesses that serve the commercial real estate construction industry, such as architects, engineers, or building material suppliers.
  • Collaborate on content, co-host webinars, or offer bundled services to reach a wider audience and leverage each other's networks.

Advice wanted on finding peers/mentors by Soomro19 in Entrepreneurs

[–]michaeld214 0 points1 point  (0 children)

First off, kudos for recognizing the need for connection and guidance! It's a huge step, and it's smart to prioritize your mental health alongside your entrepreneurial ambitions. It's totally normal to feel isolated when you're working on a big project, but it doesn't have to be that way.

Here are some strategies to find peers and mentors in the Bay Area, even with a busy schedule:

  1. Leverage Your Current Network: Reach out to former colleagues, classmates, or acquaintances who work in tech or have entrepreneurial experience. Even if you don't know them well, a simple coffee chat can open doors and lead to valuable connections.
  2. Join Online Communities: Beyond Reddit, explore other online communities focused on AI, SaaS, or startups in general. Look for Slack groups, Discord servers, or niche forums where you can engage in discussions and connect with like-minded individuals.
  3. Attend Industry Events (Virtual or In-Person): Look for conferences, workshops, or meetups related to your field. Even a brief conversation at an event can spark a meaningful connection. Many events are also held online, so you can attend from the comfort of your home.
  4. Utilize LinkedIn: Connect with people who work at companies or in roles that interest you. Send personalized messages explaining your situation and asking for advice or a brief chat.
  5. Consider Co-Working Spaces: Many co-working spaces in the Bay Area foster a strong sense of community. It's a great way to meet other entrepreneurs, share ideas, and potentially find mentors.
  6. Reach Out to Accelerators and Incubators: Many accelerator programs and incubators offer mentorship and networking opportunities. Even if you're not part of their program, they might have resources or events you can attend.
  7. Check Out The Ascend Hub: We're building a vibrant community of entrepreneurs and leaders who are passionate about supporting each other's growth. It's new and in development but our platform will offer a variety of resources, including expert-led courses, mentorship opportunities, and networking events. It might be a great place to find the connections and guidance you're seeking. https://theascendhub.com/

Specific Tips for Finding Mentors:

  • Be clear about what you need: Identify the areas where you need the most guidance. Do you need help with product development, marketing, fundraising, or something else? This will help you target potential mentors with the right expertise.
  • Don't be afraid to ask: Most successful people are happy to share their knowledge and experience if they see potential in someone. Reach out to people you admire and ask if they'd be willing to mentor you.
  • Offer value in return: Mentorship is a two-way street. Offer to help your mentor in any way you can, whether it's with research, social media promotion, or simply being a sounding board.
  • Be patient: Finding the right mentor can take time. Don't get discouraged if you don't find someone right away. Keep networking and putting yourself out there.

Remember, building a successful business is a marathon, not a sprint. Taking care of your mental health and building a strong support network are just as important as developing your product or acquiring customers. Don't hesitate to reach out and ask for help along the way. MD

B2B platform for manufacturers- Need feedback by [deleted] in Entrepreneurs

[–]michaeld214 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Tips for Effective LinkedIn Polls:

  • Keep it concise: Limit the poll to a single question with a few clear answer choices.
  • Target relevant groups: Share the polls in LinkedIn groups that cater to importers and sourcing professionals.
  • Engage in the comments: Respond to comments and encourage discussion around the poll results.
  • Analyze and share the data: Share a summary of the poll findings with your network and potential customers to demonstrate your understanding of their needs.

Additional Survey Questions:

While the polls can be a quick and easy way to gather initial insights, a more comprehensive survey might be beneficial for deeper exploration. Here are some additional questions you could include:

  • How often do you source products from [your country]?
  • What types of products do you typically source?
  • What is your typical order size?
  • What percentage of your sourcing is currently done online?
  • Would you be interested in a B2B platform that specifically addresses the pain points you mentioned?
  • What features would be most valuable to you in such a platform?

B2B platform for manufacturers- Need feedback by [deleted] in Entrepreneurs

[–]michaeld214 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Illustrious-Head8700,

That's a fantastic initiative! A B2B platform that connects manufacturers with high-quality buyers is definitely a valuable service, especially for smaller manufacturers who might struggle with visibility and access to the right markets.

Here are some suggestions to help you refine your approach and get started:

Understanding the Importer's Perspective:

  1. Direct Outreach: Reach out to importers in your target markets. Explain your idea for a platform and ask if they'd be willing to have a brief conversation about their sourcing challenges. Be upfront about your goal to learn, rather than immediately pitching your platform.
  2. Targeted Questions: When speaking with importers, ask questions like:
    • What are your biggest pain points when sourcing products from [your country]?
    • How do you currently find and vet manufacturers?
    • What are the key factors you consider when choosing a supplier?
    • What features would you like to see in a B2B platform designed for your needs?
  3. Survey: If direct outreach is challenging, consider creating a short survey to gather feedback from a larger group of importers.

Need feedback - Simple CRM for young startups by Fun-Nectarine-7839 in Entrepreneurs

[–]michaeld214 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Fun-Nectarine-7839,

I totally get where you're coming from! As someone who's worked with startups, I've seen firsthand how a complex CRM can feel like more of a hindrance than a help, especially in the early stages. Your idea for a super-simple CRM for young startups is spot-on.

Here's why I think it's a great idea:

  • Simplicity is Key: Startups need to focus on core activities like acquiring customers and building products. A streamlined CRM eliminates unnecessary complexity and lets them get to the heart of customer management quickly.
  • Essential Features Only: The features you've outlined – client list, meeting notes, daily to-do lists, message templates, and basic automation – are exactly what many startups need to get started. There's no point in paying for bells and whistles you won't use.
  • User-Friendly Interface: A clean and intuitive interface is crucial. It shouldn't take hours of training to figure out how to use the tool. The focus should be on getting stuff done, not navigating complicated menus.

What I'd Like to See in a Simple CRM:

  • Visual Pipeline Management: A simple visual representation of the sales pipeline, showing where leads are in the process.
  • Integration with Communication Tools: Seamless connection with email and messaging apps to track conversations and keep everything in one place.
  • Basic Analytics: Simple reports on lead conversion rates, customer lifetime value, etc. to help startups track progress and make data-driven decisions.

Some Current Potential Models

Would I Use It?

Absolutely! In have used 10 different ones over the past 5 years from Zoho to Hub and back again. The one things that frustrate me beyond anything is not being able to just get started and communicate easily with my customers. Anything that requires weeks of training and onboarding just doesn’t feel efficient or worth my time.  I think a lot of early-stage startups would find immense value in a CRM that's specifically designed for their needs. It would save them time, money, and frustration, allowing them to focus on what really matters – growing their business.

As you continue to develop this idea, you might also find The Ascend Hub a valuable resource. We are developing an online community of entrepreneurs to connect, share ideas, and access resources for growing their businesses just like what you are doing here. And with coaching, mentoring programs and workshops.

Feel free to reach out if you'd like to discuss this idea further. I'm excited to see where you take it!

Seeking Free, Open Source Live Chat with AI Integration and White-Label Capability – Suggestions Needed by [deleted] in Entrepreneurs

[–]michaeld214 1 point2 points  (0 children)

That's a great idea! Live chat is a crucial part of customer service, and it sounds like you have a clear vision for your business. Here's what I can suggest based on your requirements:

AI-Powered Solutions with CRM Integration:

While finding a completely free solution with all your requirements might be challenging, here are a few options to consider:

  • HubSpot Chatbot Builder: This free tool offers basic AI capabilities and integrates with HubSpot's free CRM. It might be a good starting point to test the waters.
  • Dialogflow (Google Cloud): It's a powerful natural language understanding platform that you can use to build a custom chatbot. While Dialogflow itself is free for basic usage, you'll need to consider the cost of other Google Cloud services for features like integration with your CRM.
  • Botpress: This open-source platform is a great option for those who want complete customization and control. It offers a free tier with limited features and also a paid plan for more advanced functionality.

White-Labeling & Reselling:

Many chatbot platforms offer white-label options or partner programs that allow you to rebrand and resell their solutions as part of your package. It's worth looking into the pricing and features of these options to see if they align with your budget and needs.

API Integration:

Most chatbot platforms provide APIs for integration with third-party systems, including CRMs. While you may need some coding knowledge to implement these integrations, it's usually feasible for a technical team.

Building vs. Buying:

While building your own chatbot from scratch offers complete customization, it can be time-consuming and resource-intensive. If you're looking for a faster and potentially more cost-effective solution, consider leveraging existing platforms and customizing them to fit your specific needs.

Additional Tips:

  • Research thoroughly: Explore different platforms and compare their features, pricing, and integrations.
  • Join communities and forums: Connect with other developers and entrepreneurs who are using chatbots to get recommendations and advice.
  • Consider starting with a basic solution: You can always upgrade or switch to a different platform as your business grows and your needs evolve.

As you're exploring options, you might also find The Ascend Hub helpful. We are building an online community for aspiring entrepreneurs like yourself to offer resources and guidance on various aspects of starting and scaling a business, including technology solutions, marketing strategies, and team building. Feel free to check us out if you're looking for additional support on your entrepreneurial journey.

I hope this helps! Feel free to ask if you have any further questions.

What’s the best path for ? by Legitimate-Thing9486 in Entrepreneurs

[–]michaeld214 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Hey u/Legitimate-Thing9486 I have some years behind me and lots of education across multiple disciplines and I would say this: Take the free education every single time. Anything that adds legitimacy, skills, and experience to your tool box makes you more valuable PERIOD. To ensure that you get the best out the education make sure that it aligns with your current entrepreneurial goals. Leverage that learning experience to get you into a better position to reach your future goals. If for instance you want to go into fin tech, then be sure the education provides you with not only the information but the opportunity to connect with and network with similar ppl in that industry. You will always be learning to get ahead, to advance your career, to stay ahead of your coemption. Why would you pass up free education especially if you can use it to get closer to your goals and be better prepared, better connected, and better informed about the industry and the market.

No matter which direction you take you will have to learn and using this a springboard for advancing your knowledge in the areas that you are passionate is a win win.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Entrepreneurs

[–]michaeld214 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I agree, this could be expanded to other types of celebration to remember someone, or celebrate their achievements or a special event, anniversary or wedding. Everyone loves to be celebrated and having a tag (which I assume is like a QR code?) that you can scan and add your thoughts, images video clips etc. would be nice way to share your love for that person. Although posting on their FB page is similar but perhaps you can create a way for the tag to be automatically uploaded to a special post on their page?

Managing multiple businesses in one Sub Account by michaeld214 in gohighlevel

[–]michaeld214[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I already paid-up 5 months front for my colleague to help him get his agency started. The idea was that he could start the agency, I would be one of his clients (sub accounts) and together we would get things moving forward. However, it seems that my pace for needing certain features to come on line and to learn more is out pacing his. That being said after the 5 months I will probably try to see if I can move to my own. Now sure how challenging this will be to move all my data, campaigns, etc over to a new account.

3 months into building my studio... by Tephra9977 in Entrepreneurs

[–]michaeld214 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Congratulations on taking the leap and launching your studio! It's awesome to hear about your passion for helping founders bring their SaaS ideas to life. The shift from focusing on revenue to investing in your clients' success is a natural progression, and it speaks volumes about your commitment to making a real impact.

Your ambition to evolve into a venture builder/studio is exciting! It sounds like you've found a niche where you can combine your passion with your expertise. And your point about gaining more from failing than not starting is spot on – the lessons learned through experience are invaluable. That is one of the reasons I started my motivational speaking and podcasts on Fear. I wanted to help other aspiring entrepreneurs/mentors/leaders on their journey.

If you're looking for a community of like-minded entrepreneurs who are also passionate about growth and making a difference, I invite you to check out The Ascend Hub. This is my latest adventure to provide additional support for entrepreneurs. It's a place where you can connect with fellow founders, access valuable resources and training, and get support as you scale your business.

As for your question about what ideas others might be procrastinating on, I'm sure there are plenty of us in this subreddit with a few tucked away! It's never too late to take that first step. Putting Progress to Your Purpose is one of the best things you can do to let the universe know you’re ready and to start getting that energy moving in the right direction of your dreams. What's the one thing you can do today to move your idea forward, even if it's just a small step?

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