Develpreneur: Become a Better Developer and Entrepreneur

Welcome back to our podcast series! In this episode, Navigating Software Development Challenges, we continue our journey through Season 21, dedicated to empowering developers with essential skills and insights. Whether you're a seasoned coder or just starting, we're here to help you navigate the complex world of software development.

Over the years, we've witnessed the evolution of our focus from a broad spectrum to a more refined approach. Our goal is to assist developers in honing their craft, addressing common challenges, and, ultimately, delivering high-quality solutions to their clients.

In today's discussion, Michel and Rob delve into the art of problem-solving in the realm of software consulting. It's not uncommon for clients to find themselves in tricky situations, often due to factors like vendor lock-in or technology sprawl. As consultants and technologists, our task is to guide them out of these predicaments and set them on a path to sustainable success.

Navigating Software Development Challenges

One prevalent issue we've encountered is the tendency for companies, particularly non-technical ones, to rush into technology solutions without proper research or planning. This approach often leads to short-term fixes that fail to scale or maintain over time. Instead, we advocate for a more strategic approach, considering factors like the client's needs, budget, and long-term goals.

A case study shared during the podcast highlights the importance of thorough assessment and strategic intervention. In this scenario, Rob's company has a client who had been using a poorly maintained system built by a side hustle developer, resulting in numerous technical challenges and inefficiencies. By conducting a comprehensive analysis and implementing targeted solutions, we were able to revamp the system, streamline processes, and enhance overall functionality.

Leave The Code In A Better Place

Central to our approach is the concept of leaving code and processes in a better state than we found them. Whether it's fixing bugs, optimizing performance, or implementing best practices, our goal is to deliver tangible improvements that drive long-term value for our clients. Moreover, effective communication and documentation ensure a smooth transition and empower clients to manage their systems effectively.

As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of software development, it's essential to remain adaptable and innovative. By embracing agile methodologies, continuous improvement, and collaborative problem-solving, we can overcome challenges and deliver exceptional results for our clients.

In closing, we invite you to join us on this journey of growth and learning. Whether you're a developer, consultant, or technology enthusiast, there's always something new to discover and explore. Together, let's elevate the standards of software development and make a positive impact on the world.

Thank you for tuning in, and until next time, happy coding!

Additional Resources

• What Goes Into Building Software

• The Importance of Writing Readable Code

• Coder or Developer Learning to Solve Problems

• Master Agile, Scrum, Sprints, and The Software Development Life Cycle

Welcome to Building Better Developers, your go-to destination for continual professional and personal improvement. In our debut YouTube episode (Season 21 podcast), hosts Rob and Michael reveal the inner workings of their weekly discussions. Including invaluable experiences and the lessons they learn while tackling challenges in their respective businesses. Today, they're offering an exclusive peek into their entrepreneurial journey experiences and unveiling strategies for a successful business launch.

First, we open the discussion with Michael, formerly at the helm of Meloche Consulting, who has recently made a move to launch a new company, Envision QA. This company has a niche focus on quality assurance audits and assessments. Rob and Michael discuss what it takes to start a business. Including defining a niche, establishing a brand, and setting up a business entity. Priceless insights for budding entrepreneurs.

Strategies for a Successful Business Launch

1. Start with an idea.

2. Do some market research.

3. Design Logo and branding.

4. Register your company.

5. Register a Domain.

6. Setup a Website.

7. Get a company email.

Pay Attention to Your Brand.

Next, they explore the critical realm of branding and logo design, drawing from their experiences with platforms like 99designs. They underscore the significance of crafting a brand identity that resonates across various mediums, ensuring maximum visibility and consistency. Rob also gave an example of what can happen when your branding color look good on paper, but when they are put to use on PDF or a websote they appeared much differenterently. Therefore, it is always a good idea to pay attention to how your brand comes together, test it on different media, and get some friends to help give you feedback.

Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the importance of perpetual learning and adaptability in the fast-paced landscape of technology and entrepreneurship. By encouraging you to explore their array of resources. These include our comprehensive video series, "Launch an Internet Business," and our courses available on develpreneur.com

Online Resources:

• Small Businesses Self-Employed
• School Develpreneur
• Launch an Internet Business
• YouTube Channel and Videos

In summary, we provide practical insights, relatable anecdotes, and a treasure trove of strategies for a successful business launch. With our unwavering commitment to growth and improvement, we are dedicated to empowering you on your journey to success in the tech industry.

We continue our discussion with Christian Espinosa and turn to learning from your first business as you build another. We also talk about security and the cyber world, but his points on team-building and lessons learned are of a larger value. His experience is not unique, but the detail he provides helps us end the season on a deeply informative note.

Start New While Learning From Your First Business

We all make mistakes. Christian looked closely at his when he decided to create a new business. He also reviewed what he did right and used that as a foundation. These are invaluable areas to ensure we are learning from our first business as we start a second. Experience is the perfect teacher, and few business owners get to start with that level of experience.

About Christian

Christian Espinosa, a renowned thought leader, is most known as the bestselling author of "The Smartest Person in the Room," which explores the limitations of seeking validation through achievement and the desire to be the brightest intellect in any room.

With a deep desire to inspire others to harness their innate wisdom, overcome perceived barriers, and summon the courage to tread new paths, Christian authored his latest book, "The In-Between: Life in the Micro." This book chronicles his remarkable transformation—from a "me against the world" mindset. One that was cultivated during his tumultuous upbringing. Into his evolution as a compassionate global citizen committed to uplifting humanity.

A dynamic entrepreneur, Christian built and successfully sold Alpine Security, a cybersecurity business. He founded and currently leads Blue Goat Cyber (https://bluegoatcyber.com/). He also has an array of professional and personal development certifications. His expertise extends beyond the confines of the corporate world: he's a white hat hacker, a captivating keynote speaker, a wise real estate investor, and a connoisseur of heavy metal music and fiery cuisines.

He’s also spent time in the Mexican jungle with Mayan Shamans, is a C-License skydiver, and is a PADI divemaster. Whatever Christian tries, he tends to master. Beyond his impactful professional pursuits, Christian's zest for life knows no bounds. An adventurer at heart, he fearlessly leaps from planes and balloons, conquers towering peaks, explores the globe, imparts wisdom in outdoor wilderness survival, and even takes on the rigorous challenges of Ironman triathlons. Having completed an impressive 24 Ironman triathlons and scaled two of the renowned Seven Summits, Christian Espinosa epitomizes the spirit of transformative leadership and unyielding exploration.

Learn More

Learn more about Christian at :https://christianespinosa.com/

.Purchase one of his books, available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08T6QK6FN https://www.amazon.com/Between-Life-Micro-Christian-Espinosa-ebook/dp/B0CP8RYV55

or take his course: https://programs.christianespinosa.com/the-secure-methodology

We start a new conversation and explore what being the smartest person in the room is like. While that may seem arrogant or sarcastic, it is not. However, the focus is more on what it is like to think differently and set the most intelligent person as our goal. There are specific challenges when people make that the focus, such as we often see in a room of engineers.

Challenges For The Smartest Person In The Room

While the goal is lofty, there are also many downsides to focusing on the smartest or best. Often, a lone wolf or "me against the world" attitude hinders or blocks teamwork. That also can be highly limiting even to the individual. The most outstanding star athlete still needs their team; the most prominent stars are often the best team-mates. Those truisms work for intellectual pursuits as well as physical ones.

About Christian

Christian Espinosa, a renowned thought leader, is most known as the bestselling author of "The Smartest Person in the Room," which explores the limitations of seeking validation through achievement and the desire to be the brightest intellect in any room.

With a deep desire to inspire others to harness their innate wisdom, overcome perceived barriers, and summon the courage to tread new paths, Christian authored his latest book, "The In-Between: Life in the Micro." This book chronicles his remarkable transformation—from a "me against the world" mindset. One that was cultivated during his tumultuous upbringing. Into his evolution as a compassionate global citizen committed to uplifting humanity.

A dynamic entrepreneur, Christian built and successfully sold Alpine Security, a cybersecurity business. He founded and currently leads Blue Goat Cyber (https://bluegoatcyber.com/). He also has an array of professional and personal development certifications. His expertise extends beyond the confines of the corporate world: he's a white hat hacker, a captivating keynote speaker, a wise real estate investor, and a connoisseur of heavy metal music and fiery cuisines.

He’s also spent time in the Mexican jungle with Mayan Shamans, is a C-License skydiver, and is a PADI divemaster. Whatever Christian tries, he tends to master. Beyond his impactful professional pursuits, Christian's zest for life knows no bounds. An adventurer at heart, he fearlessly leaps from planes and balloons, conquers towering peaks, explores the globe, imparts wisdom in outdoor wilderness survival, and even takes on the rigorous challenges of Ironman triathlons. Having completed an impressive 24 Ironman triathlons and scaled two of the renowned Seven Summits, Christian Espinosa epitomizes the spirit of transformative leadership and unyielding exploration.

Learn More

Learn more about Christian at :https://christianespinosa.com/

.Purchase one of his books, available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08T6QK6FN https://www.amazon.com/Between-Life-Micro-Christian-Espinosa-ebook/dp/B0CP8RYV55

or take his course: https://programs.christianespinosa.com/the-secure-methodology

We continue and conclude our conversation with Tyler Ward, focusing on cybersecurity best practices and where organizations fall short. He does an excellent job of focusing on the problem and suggesting a solution rather than an approach that can result in finger-pointing.

Prepare For Cybersecurity Best Practices

The best part about Tyler's recommendations is that they make complete sense. We should all automatically assume that one of the cybersecurity best practices is education. Solving a problem will always be challenging when you lack the tools or an understanding of them. He walks us through a better definition of the problem, and then the solution smoothly and logically follows from there.

About Tyler

Ty Ward is a published author and seasoned cybersecurity professional with over 15 years of experience in the field. Ty is a former U.S. Air Force and also a former U.S. Intelligence Agency member. He has responded to hundreds of real-world data breaches and cyber-attacks, performed hundreds of penetration tests against organizations, and served as a chief information security officer for many companies both nationally and internationally. He holds multiple university degrees and many professional certifications, including the CISSP, GCIH, and others.

Ty is also the Founder of the NightLight Foundation, an anti-child exploitation and trafficking not-for-profit organization.

Learn More

The Nightlight Foundation Our Mission To provide resources to children and their families who have been affected by sexual assault and trauma.

Website: https://www.nightlight-foundation.org/

Published Book: https://a.co/d/ipWJj2G

Our new conversation focuses on how we can improve security awareness as Tyler Ward shares the mistake that launched his career. He starts with a cautionary tale and walks us through his progression into security and eventually into consulting.

Use Experience To Improve Security Awareness

While Tyler's story is a good one to teach us a lesson, there are many others. Hacks and security breaches are becoming a common occurrence. We can all do a better job of securing our systems and organizations. However, we also need to improve security awareness across our organization and families to help combat these risks at the source.

About Tyler

Ty Ward is a published author and seasoned cybersecurity professional with over 15 years of experience in the field. Ty is a former U.S. Air Force and also a former U.S. Intelligence Agency member. He has responded to hundreds of real-world data breaches and cyber-attacks, performed hundreds of penetration tests against organizations, and served as a chief information security officer for many companies both nationally and internationally. He holds multiple university degrees and many professional certifications, including the CISSP, GCIH, and others.

Ty is also the Founder of the NightLight Foundation, an anti-child exploitation and trafficking not-for-profit organization.

Learn More

The Nightlight Foundation Our Mission To provide resources to children and their families who have been affected by sexual assault and trauma.

Website: https://www.nightlight-foundation.org/

Published Book: https://a.co/d/ipWJj2G

Our conversation with attorney Richard Gearhart continues and moves from trademarks to an introduction to the software patent process. I find this is often an intimidating concept for us as developers. We know the value of a patent, yet we feel the process is too complicated or difficult.

An Overview Of The Patent Process

The whole process of deciding to apply for a patent and what is even possible is often a mystery. Richard helps us get a better idea of what it will look like should we take this path. He also gives us good reason for doing so in some cases. His story-telling approach keeps this educational episode entertaining as well as highly informative.

About Richard

Richard Gearhart, Esq. is a radio show host, TV network expert guest, nationally syndicated radio show host, and an attorney (founder of Gearhart Law). Richard speaks on a variety of intellectual property and business topics.

He has worked with Larry Namer - founder of E! Entertainment TV; former WWE wrestler Brimstone; the Sopranos actor Kevin Interdonato; and celebrity dentist Dr. Bill Dorfman. That's not all. He has also worked with TV shopping network celeb Victoria Wieck; Dave Noll - creator of the TV show Chopped; world-renowned relationship strategist Dr. Gilda Carle, Terry Joes - founder of Kayak and Travelocity and more.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career in law, Richard has presented to numerous attorneys. He has presented to Fortune 50 companies and at top colleges and universities. Richard also spoke alongside New Jersey Supreme Court Chief Justice Stuart Rabner at the New Jersey State Bar Association Business Law Symposium. Richard is the co-host of "Passage to Profit – Road to Entrepreneurship", along with his wife Elizabeth. It is a nationally syndicated iHeart Radio show. He covers entrepreneurism and innovation, broadcasting from the studios of WOR710 in New York City. Richard and Elizabeth interview various entrepreneurs, company founders, inventors, startups, experts, and celebrities from various industries. They do this to gain insight from multiple perspectives. Thus, each show presents listeners with real-life experiences from diverse guests. It provides valuable advice and unique perspectives on the Road to Entrepreneurship. Passage to Profit (www.passagetoprofitshow.com) also airs weekly on 25 radio stations nationwide on the Radio America Network.

Richard is an award-winning attorney and built Gearhart Law (www.gearhartlaw.com), an international law firm, to help entrepreneurs protect themselves and their intellectual property around the world with their patents, trademarks, and copyrights. Richard has been recognized as one of “The Best of the Best”- ROI New Jersey Lawyers. Likewise, the firm was listed twice in Inc. Magazine's list of fastest-growing companies and routinely works with scientists from elite universities and institutions. In addition, Richard has represented three clients who have successfully landed on the hit TV show Shark Tank.

He is registered to practice at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and admitted to practice in the state of New Jersey.

Check out his practice at https://www.richardgearhartesq.com/

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We start a new conversation with attorney Richard Gearhart about copyright and trademarks and how we need to be aware of them. This is an area of software development I often hear discussed but without any good answers. Our discussion provides the legal answers we look for.

Software Copyright And Trademarks Are Important

We all bump up against legal issues at times including copyright and trademarks. Therefore, we need to have a good foundation of knowledge. Otherwise, we can spend a lot of time and money on a solution that is not legally viable. Richard provides an excellent overview of this area of software products and services to give us that foundation.

About Richard

Richard Gearhart, Esq. is a radio show host, TV network expert guest, nationally syndicated radio show host, and an attorney (founder of Gearhart Law). Richard speaks on a variety of intellectual property and business topics.

He has worked with Larry Namer - founder of E! Entertainment TV; former WWE wrestler Brimstone; the Sopranos actor Kevin Interdonato; and celebrity dentist Dr. Bill Dorfman. That's not all. He has also worked with TV shopping network celeb Victoria Wieck; Dave Noll - creator of the TV show Chopped; world-renowned relationship strategist Dr. Gilda Carle, Terry Joes - founder of Kayak and Travelocity and more.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career in law, Richard has presented to numerous attorneys. He has presented to Fortune 50 companies and at top colleges and universities. Richard also spoke alongside New Jersey Supreme Court Chief Justice Stuart Rabner at the New Jersey State Bar Association Business Law Symposium. Richard is the co-host of "Passage to Profit – Road to Entrepreneurship", along with his wife Elizabeth. It is a nationally syndicated iHeart Radio show. He covers entrepreneurism and innovation, broadcasting from the studios of WOR710 in New York City. Richard and Elizabeth interview various entrepreneurs, company founders, inventors, startups, experts, and celebrities from various industries. They do this to gain insight from multiple perspectives. Thus, each show presents listeners with real-life experiences from diverse guests. It provides valuable advice and unique perspectives on the Road to Entrepreneurship. Passage to Profit (www.passagetoprofitshow.com) also airs weekly on 25 radio stations nationwide on the Radio America Network.

Richard is an award-winning attorney and built Gearhart Law (www.gearhartlaw.com), an international law firm, to help entrepreneurs protect themselves and their intellectual property around the world with their patents, trademarks, and copyrights. Richard has been recognized as one of “The Best of the Best”- ROI New Jersey Lawyers. Likewise, the firm was listed twice in Inc. Magazine's list of fastest-growing companies and routinely works with scientists from elite universities and institutions. In addition, Richard has represented three clients who have successfully landed on the hit TV show Shark Tank.

He is registered to practice at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and admitted to practice in the state of New Jersey.

Check out his practice at https://www.richardgearhartesq.com/

.

We continue our interview with Samuel Drauschak and discuss how to improve data capture during our processes so we can measure them. We need metrics to assist us in assessing the value of any process and provide a measure of changes. That allows us to score our changes as good or bad and the level of impact they have.

It Starts With A Need To Improve Data Capture

There are many similarities across processes. However, we need to find common ground to compare and contrast them. That begins with a need to improve data capture as we execute each step. This is a focus on science and objective measures rather than eyeballing our way through the assessments.

About Sam

Sam Drauschak is the Co-founder and Chief Process Scientist at Truvle, whose mission is to assist businesses. They accomplish this by reducing wasteful activity through innovative tools, software, and expert content. With over a decade of experience in management consulting, Sam has worked with a broad range of companies. Thus, he has helped financial services, resources, legal services, media, and digital services organizations to simplify and improve their operations using business science fundamentals. Furthermore, he is the author of "Becoming A Conscious Business." This book explores the efficiency of biological systems and how to apply them to modern businesses.

Leading his team at Truvle, Sam helps organizations achieve maximum efficiency in business processes and energy flow. Likewise, he has also developed the Truvle Mapping Language (TML), a universal process mapping language adopted as the standard for multiple large enterprises globally.

Sam has been a featured speaker at IIBA and Columbia University, sharing his experience in process consulting. He was also proudly featured in the Top 100 Magazine and recognized for his exceptional contributions to process mapping language.

Sam's expertise spans process improvement, cost reduction, operational redesign, and more, working with global firms and Silicon Valley clients. He holds an MBA from the University of Richmond, a B.A. from the University of Virginia, and certifications in Lean, Six Sigma, Change Management, and Project Management.

Learn More

Check out his company at https://www.truvle.com/

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This interview with Truvle's Samuel Drauschak explores the science of processes and how to leverage that to improve ours. Our discussion takes us into process science and how we can gain a better view of the steps we take. Every process is different. However, there are similarities that Sam's work and company have noticed in an attempt to help us improve no matter the process.

There Is A Science Of Processes

The science of processes may be something you have not considered. It was a little different for me as we looked into the similarities in creating processes and how to use those to find templates and better ways to create them. There are also common mistakes we make that can be avoided by considering the key aspects of any good process.

About Sam

Sam Drauschak is the Co-founder and Chief Process Scientist at Truvle, whose mission is to assist businesses. They accomplish this by reducing wasteful activity through innovative tools, software, and expert content. With over a decade of experience in management consulting, Sam has worked with a broad range of companies. Thus, he has helped financial services, resources, legal services, media, and digital services organizations to simplify and improve their operations using business science fundamentals. Furthermore, he is the author of "Becoming A Conscious Business." This book explores the efficiency of biological systems and how to apply them to modern businesses.

Leading his team at Truvle, Sam helps organizations achieve maximum efficiency in business processes and energy flow. Likewise, he has also developed the Truvle Mapping Language (TML), a universal process mapping language adopted as the standard for multiple large enterprises globally.

Sam has been a featured speaker at IIBA and Columbia University, sharing his experience in process consulting. He was also proudly featured in the Top 100 Magazine and recognized for his exceptional contributions to process mapping language.

Sam's expertise spans process improvement, cost reduction, operational redesign, and more, working with global firms and Silicon Valley clients. He holds an MBA from the University of Richmond, a B.A. from the University of Virginia, and certifications in Lean, Six Sigma, Change Management, and Project Management.

Learn More

Check out his company at https://www.truvle.com/

.

We continue our interview with Donna Dube and focus on her power hour approach to simplify and improve productivity. This approach is an essential step for success for a CEO or anyone else who has a schedule that often blocks them from planning. There is a limit to how long we can go in a fire-fighting mode of reacting all the time. We need to be able to step back and do some planning. That is where she helps us make the most of our time.

Work Smarter To Simplify And Improve Productivity

For many of us the reactive mode we assume is self-inflicted. We take on too much and set everything we see as a top priority. That makes it impossible to delegate or even take a thoughtful approach to what we do next. At some point we must learn how to at least take a triage approach if not push things off our plate that are not critical. Fortunately, it rarely is that bad. We are not in a world on fire. Instead, we have a lot of wants and those block us from delegating and focusing on the needs. Donna guides us through separating out what we truly need to focus on.

About Donna

Donna is a certified Director of Operations, business growth strategist, and host of the CEO Amplify podcast.  She works with established online service-based business owners who are ready to make a bigger impact and maximize their profit. She is passionate about helping business owners work smarter, not harder. That helps them escape the hustle and grind culture and go from stressed out to confident CEO. 

With several years of experience in project planning and strategic growth planning with 6- & 7-figure businesses, she has seen the momentum that can happen in a business when the CEO leverages their time, talent, and tactics.

Amplify Yourself

Learn More At: https://ceoamplify.ca/powerhour

Unlock the CEO's secret to working smarter, not harder, with a weekly CEO power hour! This comprehensive toolkit will empower you to maximize profits, optimize operations, and make impactful decisions that drive long-term success. Get ready to harness the momentum of the CEO Power Hour and take charge of your business destiny!

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We start the new year with a look at moving forward from our past mistakes. There is value in a retrospective and learning from mistakes. However, we can then drop those past burdens. There is no need to keep returning to them or have too much fear of repeating them. Our goal is to learn and advance, not get mired down in the past.

Moving Forward Requires Change

There is no phrase more indicative of being tied to the past than "We have always done it that way." This phrase tells the listener that you are happy where you are and have no desire to move from that position. Nevertheless, the world moves on, and businesses continue moving forward. Technology makes that advance even more apparent as systems come and go. The applications and systems you relied on even ten years ago likely no longer exist outside of museums or businesses trapped in the past.

Look For New Solutions

We can get caught in the trap of focusing too much on change and thus never finding enough consistency to be productive. However, that is an easy trap to avoid. We must set aside some time once or twice a year to pick our heads up and look around. Ask yourself if your tools are still doing the job properly, and do some research in case a better solution is available.

Useful Articles And Episodes

Change and moving forward from past solutions are lessons many of our guests have learned. Here are a few examples.

Starting a consulting business from scratch

Start a Developer career

Grow Your Passion Into A Business

We start a discussion with Donna Dube of the CEO Amplify podcast and how to be a better CEO whether you are a company of 1 or 1000. It is easy to get lost in all we need to do as a CEO or even as an entrepreneur. Donna talks to us about ways to be better by avoiding common pitfalls.

Your Company Deserves A Better CEO

Every company deserves a leader that is focused on the things that help it grow. That focus must include the things that really matter, and then the lesser things should be delegated. We want to put each task on the plate of the person best suited to handle it. That is where the best leaders show their value. They find a way to get everything done without doing it themselves. We become better when we focus on the tasks that we do best.

About Donna

Donna is a certified Director of Operations, business growth strategist, and host of the CEO Amplify podcast.  She works with established online service-based business owners who are ready to make a bigger impact and maximize their profit. She is passionate about helping business owners work smarter, not harder. That helps them escape the hustle and grind culture and go from stressed out to confident CEO. 

With several years of experience in project planning and strategic growth planning with 6- & 7-figure businesses, she has seen the momentum that can happen in a business when the CEO leverages their time, talent, and tactics.

Amplify Yourself

Learn More At: https://ceoamplify.ca/powerhour

Unlock the CEO's secret to working smarter, not harder, with a weekly CEO power hour! This comprehensive toolkit will empower you to maximize profits, optimize operations, and make impactful decisions that drive long-term success. Get ready to harness the momentum of the CEO Power Hour and take charge of your business destiny!

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Artificial intelligence is a hot topic recently and we take this special focus episode to look at how we can leverage AI. There are some very popular ways to use this new tool that have to do with content generation. However, there are so many fuzzy logic problems out there to solve it seems that is a logical focus for better gains.

Think Out Of The Box To Leverage AI

A new technology provides us with a ew way to solve problems. That opens the door to productivity gains but, more importantly, there will be new areas to explore. We may have a solution that has always required manual intervention that now can be automated. There is a whole world of possibilities when we look for solutions that were never automated before. Those areas are where the most incredible advances in technology have come from.

Limit Your Variables

We can leverage AI in many ways. However, it is still new and can be a wild card for our solutions. Rather than double-down on the risk and challenges by using this new approach to solve a new problem, limit the variables. Use AI to tackle an existing problem in a new way. The productivity and efficiency gains might be game-changing.

Useful Articles And Episodes

Here are some AI discussions that might help jumpstart your new product or service.

Better AI Prompts

Gen Z Traits

Use Cases For AI

Our interview with Chris Barkhurst concludes with how he has built a company you would work for in a heartbeat. It is one he would want to work for. There are benefits that make the company one that forces a work-life balance. However, they also make sure they get the job done. He has created a perfect example of how healthy and happy employees can do more in less time.

Why Build A Company You Would Work For?

There are many reasons to set this goal. Chris found his motivation in talking to his father. We can lose sight of the important things in life as a business grows. Thus, it is best to build a company you would work for from the very start. That is when you can set the rules and build habits that will carry that goal through the life of the company.

About Chris

Chris Barkhurst is not your everyday CEO; he is a visionary leader and innovator at the helm of BBCE, Inc. He is driving ventures that testify to his diverse interests and forward-thinking approach. With a keen eye for technological potential, Chris ventured into the AI landscape, founding Barky AI. This groundbreaking initiative launched an app that paved the way for AI communication. It was ahead of the curve in making its presence a year before the advent of ChatGPT.

Under Chris’s leadership, Barky AI refocused on B2B engagements and diverse products, projecting a robust turnover exceeding $19 million this year. Chris’s innovative journey continued with establishing Benson-Lloyd Card Grading, a venture revolutionizing security standards in card grading. With an AI-driven, counterfeit-proof system, it has set benchmarks that exceed even those of the U.S. Mint, amassing impressive revenues since its inception.

His Next Big Venture

What sets Chris and his ventures apart is the organic growth and buzz they’ve achieved without reliance on extensive marketing or social media presence. BBCE, Inc. thrives on its reputation, creating a natural buzz and accumulating a dedicated following eager for the company’s next move. Chris’s podcast appearances have historically sparked excitement and engagement, reflecting the impactful resonance of his story and BBCE, Inc.’s story. The industry is abuzz with anticipation as Chris gears up to tease a new product. His story continues to inspire and intrigue, embodying a journey of innovation, perseverance, and success. In the world of Chris Barkhurst and BBCE, Inc., the next chapter is always around the corner, and it promises to be as engaging and revolutionary as the last.

Learn More at: HTTP://www.barkyai.com

This is the website listeners can visit on their phones to download the app, learn more, or send Chris' team a message.

One of the things we have seen through many interviews is the idea of success through perseverance. It is more than not quitting; it is driving forward. Obstacles are a part of life, and we can either let them stop us or find a way through them. It is an over-simplification to focus on not quitting. We also can not succeed by simply treading water.

We All Stumble But Can Find Success Through Perseverance

Every success story seems to have numerous setbacks that have to be addressed. In fact, taking a step backward seems like a regular occurrence as we grow. We have to balance that with two or more steps forward after we regress. Those who succeed share that view of a step back as a sort of preparation for growth rather than some loss or negative. The step backward does not count as a true setback if we can work through it and advance. It's sort of like taking a step back to go around an obstacle rather than beating our heads against it.

Set Your Course

Pick your path, choose your goals, and march. You can assume that there will be challenges and times that you can quit. However, you will not fail if you keep striving and driving forward. Persevere!

Useful Articles And Episodes

We all can use some motivation, and here are some past episodes that can help.

Personal Motivators And Drivers - Find The Right Approach

Self Care For High Performers - Shaunna Lee

Side Hustle Success Through Perseverance

Our interview with Chris Barkhurst is one of those that everyone needs to hear as it delves into use cases for AI. This field has so much buzz and conjecture that it can be overwhelming. However, Chris breaks it down so that you can understand where his companies apply this new technology.

New And Unique Use Cases For AI

It should not surprise us that some incredible use cases for AI go beyond the content creation we often hear about. Chris shares some niche yet fascinating areas where AI can make a difference. They range from the almost scary voice on the other end of a support call to the game-changing evaluation of baseball collector cards. The broad range of solutions he mentions means we will surely see this industry explode in the years to come.

About Chris

Chris Barkhurst is not your everyday CEO; he is a visionary leader and innovator at the helm of BBCE, Inc. He is driving ventures that testify to his diverse interests and forward-thinking approach. With a keen eye for technological potential, Chris ventured into the AI landscape, founding Barky AI. This groundbreaking initiative launched an app that paved the way for AI communication. It was ahead of the curve in making its presence a year before the advent of ChatGPT.

Under Chris’s leadership, Barky AI refocused on B2B engagements and diverse products, projecting a robust turnover exceeding $19 million this year. Chris’s innovative journey continued with establishing Benson-Lloyd Card Grading, a venture revolutionizing security standards in card grading. With an AI-driven, counterfeit-proof system, it has set benchmarks that exceed even those of the U.S. Mint, amassing impressive revenues since its inception.

His Next Big Venture

What sets Chris and his ventures apart is the organic growth and buzz they’ve achieved without reliance on extensive marketing or social media presence. BBCE, Inc. thrives on its reputation, creating a natural buzz and accumulating a dedicated following eager for the company’s next move. Chris’s podcast appearances have historically sparked excitement and engagement, reflecting the impactful resonance of his story and BBCE, Inc.’s story. The industry is abuzz with anticipation as Chris gears up to tease a new product. His story continues to inspire and intrigue, embodying a journey of innovation, perseverance, and success. In the world of Chris Barkhurst and BBCE, Inc., the next chapter is always around the corner, and it promises to be as engaging and revolutionary as the last.

Learn More at: HTTP://www.barkyai.com

This is the website listeners can visit on their phones to download the app, learn more, or send Chris' team a message.

The start of a new year can be the best time for cleaning your task list. Nothing says a fresh start like an entire new year ahead. However, we need to make sure we complete those year end tasks that can easily be forgotten. Some things on our to do list are too important to forget, but maintenance and accounting tasks can be glossed over. That can cause problems big and small.

Cleaning Your Task List Items From Last Year

An oil change is an example of those tasks that we can push off to another day or week. It will not make much difference for a short time, but if we forget it can cause major problems. There are many business tasks like this. They range from process activities like catching up documentation to preemptive tasks like testing fire alarm batteries and doing software audits. These are the things we do that can be overlooked because they do not immediately cause us pain. On the other hand, they can be crippling over time.

Clear The Decks

Get those tasks caught up before they get lost in the busyness of the near year. Then you will be set up for executing your plans for the year ahead. You have a nice long runway of twelve months ahead to execute and make this you best year yet.

Useful Articles And Episodes

If you need any motivation or fresh ideas as you get to work after the holidays then here are some past interviews and articles.

Use High Energy Time To Improve Productivity

Productivity Habits To Start Your Day Right

Side Hustle Ideas

We wrap up our Bryan Clayton interview with his stories and suggestions for building and vetting your team. He has built up an organization by overcoming a lot of obstacles. Those may seem unique to his company. However, there are a lot of common problems faced that he has addressed to build a trusted community of resources.

Learn From Others For Building and Vetting Your Team

Running a business can seem like a simple task. You find customers, sell products or services, and build a team. However, that is rarely the case. Bryan shares the trials any organization faces and how he researched ways to handle them. He even looked at the competition and walked a mile in the shoes of reliable and unreliable workers. There is a lot to gain from this episode, so buckle up and get ready to take notes.

About Bryan

Bryan Clayton is an entrepreneur, author, and speaker. He has built a successful career through hard work, perseverance, and innovation. He is the co-founder and CEO of GreenPal, an online platform that connects homeowners with local lawn care professionals. Under Bryan's leadership, GreenPal has grown into a multi-million dollar company with over 200,000 active users. Furthermore, it has been featured in publications like Forbes, Inc. and Entrepreneur.

Before starting GreenPal, Bryan founded Peachtree Inc., a landscaping company he grew to become one of the largest in Tennessee, with over $10 million in annual revenue. LUSA Holdings, a national company, eventually acquired Peachtree.

Bryan has also been recognized for his leadership and entrepreneurial spirit. That has come from organizations like the Nashville Business Journal, which named him one of its "40 under 40" honorees. Bryan's entrepreneurial journey is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and a willingness to take risks. He is passionate about helping others succeed and continually seeks ways to give back to his community.

Learn More at: https://www.yourgreenpal.com/

If you're a homeowner or property manager looking for reliable and affordable lawn care services, then you need to check out GreenPal. With just a few clicks, you can easily find and book lawn care professionals in your area who have been vetted and approved by GreenPal. Plus, with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can rest assured that you'll get top-notch service every time. So, whether you're looking for weekly lawn mowing, seasonal yard clean-up, or even tree trimming, GreenPal has got you covered. Head to their website now to learn more and start booking your lawn care services today. Your lawn will thank you for it!

We can leverage some times of the year to create longer vacations and mini-retirement experiences. There are fixed holidays and slow times that can provide a foundation for our time off, and then we tack on a day here and a day there. Likewise, we can work partial days and get things done. That can free up our days to get more things done we enjoy.

You Have Earned Longer Vacations And Mini-Retirement Stretches

Your side hustles and long days should be for more than just getting the job done. There must be a "why" that you look forward to. Some of that may be free time. Some may be time with family. Whatever your reason for working, it helps to take some time for yourself along the way. Embrace even the little periods off to walk away and recharge. You will thank yourself for it.

Embrace The Holidays

You can use the slower time of the year to catch up and prepare to launch into the next year. On the other hand, you can use this time to rest and reflect. In either case, we want to wish you and yours Happy Holidays from all of us at Develpreneur and Building Better Developers.

Useful Articles And Episodes

We have covered the cost of burnout and how to avoid it more than a few times. Check out some of these to help you use your time wisely and avoid burnout.

Detecting And Beating Burnout - Victor Manzo

Three Signs Of Burnout

Detecting And Avoiding Burnout