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In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge sits down with Steve Lucas, CEO of Boomi and author of Digital Impact: The Human Element of AI-Driven Transformation. Steve shares his deep insights into the intersection of technology and humanity, emphasizing how leaders can navigate AI-driven transformation while keeping the human element at the center. This conversation offers practical guidance for business leaders who want to embrace AI, simplify complexity, and create meaningful change in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

The conversation opens on a personal note as Steve describes his love for cars, particularly his project of restoring a 2001 Acura Integra with his son. This hands-on project, alongside his passion for gardening, illustrates Steve’s belief in reconnecting with tangible, real-world experiences—especially in a time when technology can sometimes feel overwhelming. For Steve, working on cars or nurturing a garden isn’t just a hobby; it's a way to stay grounded, strengthen family bonds, and maintain mental health amid the nonstop pace of digital life.

This theme of balancing technology with humanity is central to Steve’s new book, Digital Impact. He stresses that digital transformation should simplify life, not make it more complicated. Too often, the promise of productivity from new tools leads to frustration instead. Organizations must address digital fragmentation—where too many disconnected apps and systems make it harder to work effectively. Steve advocates for a human-first approach, where technology genuinely serves people, not the other way around.

Steve also shares real-world examples that reinforce this idea, from the Australian Red Cross scaling critical services during a crisis, to connected technologies improving diabetes care. These stories illustrate how thoughtful integration and responsible use of AI can produce transformative, life-saving outcomes. Leaders who invest in robust infrastructure and prioritize the human experience in AI adoption will not only future-proof their organizations but also create lasting, positive impact in their communities.

Steve Lucas is a seasoned executive with nearly 30 years of experience in enterprise software leadership. As the CEO of Boomi, he drives the company’s mission to connect the world through innovative technology. Prior to Boomi, Steve served as CEO of Marketo and iCIMS, and held senior executive roles at Adobe, SAP, Salesforce, and BusinessObjects. His leadership experience spans sales, marketing, and product innovation. Beyond his professional achievements, Steve is a passionate advocate for Type 1 diabetes research and serves on the boards of the American Diabetes Association and the Children’s Diabetes Foundation. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business from the University of Colorado and is a published author.

Published by Wiley, Digital Impact provides a clear, actionable roadmap for business...

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In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge welcomes Michelle Gruening, personal growth coach, keynote speaker, and author of Stop Doomscrolling. Michelle shares her inspiring journey—from working with Walt Disney World to climbing Mount Kilimanjaro—and how she now helps entrepreneurs break through limitations and achieve radical clarity. Together, Josh and Michelle dive into the importance of defining success on your own terms, combating imposter syndrome, and taking intentional action for personal and professional fulfillment.

Michelle Gruening’s mission through MG Coaching is to help first-time entrepreneurs and driven professionals realize that professional success doesn’t always equal personal fulfillment. Having spent over 20 years in leadership and customer service roles across industries—from Disney’s FairyTale Weddings to international art museums to building global customer success teams—Michelle learned firsthand how societal expectations can lead people away from their true passions. Today, she empowers her clients to define success for themselves and encourages them to create goals that align with their authentic desires, not someone else's definition of achievement.

One powerful theme Michelle shares in this episode is the concept of breaking free from “comfort zone paralysis.” She encourages individuals to identify the red flags in their life and business—especially when those red flags are internal. By fostering a growth mindset, Michelle teaches clients how to move past fear, perfectionism, and limiting beliefs. Her approach combines tough love coaching with the encouragement needed to take bold steps toward transformation. As she explains, whether it’s climbing literal mountains like Kilimanjaro or metaphorical ones like launching a new business, success requires commitment, self-awareness, and radical ownership of your choices.

Michelle’s recent passion project, Stop Doomscrolling, perfectly complements her coaching philosophy. The activity book is designed to help people curb the unhealthy habit of endless social media scrolling and instead engage in activities that foster real-world joy and connection. Through mindfulness exercises, journaling prompts, puzzles, and creative outlets, Michelle provides tools that encourage readers to be more present, more intentional, and more fulfilled.

Michelle Gruening is a personal growth coach, keynote speaker, and author dedicated to helping first-time entrepreneurs and professionals achieve radical clarity in life and business. After two decades in customer service and leadership at companies like Walt Disney World and international art institutions, Michelle left behind the status quo to pursue a life defined by purpose. Within a year, she summited Mount Kilimanjaro, authored Stop Doomscrolling, and launched MG Coaching. Michelle inspires audiences and clients alike to rewrite their own stories—one bold step at a time—by embracing a growth mindset, making intentional choices, and letting go of toxic environments.

MG Coaching helps first-time entrepreneurs and ambitious professionals create radical clarity in life and business. Through tough love coaching, mastermind groups, and personal growth resources like Stop Doomscrolling, Michelle Gruening provides the tools and support needed to break free from comfort zones, identify self-imposed...

2165 - Sarah Rowan

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In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge sits down with Jenny Benbrook, founder and CEO of Powerhouse Consulting Group. Jenny brings her expertise in software consulting for the trades industry to the conversation, highlighting how contractors can embrace technology to streamline operations and stay competitive. She also shares her journey of balancing family life and entrepreneurship, and offers insights on empowering women in traditionally male-dominated industries.

Jenny explains that while industries like HVAC, plumbing, electrical work, and exterior services such as roofing and siding have historically been slower to adopt digital technologies, the last decade has seen major shifts. Contractors today are increasingly recognizing the benefits of field service management (FSM) software, which consolidates functions like scheduling, inventory management, financial tracking, and dispatching into one cohesive system. Jenny emphasizes that adopting FSM software is no longer optional but essential for businesses that want to thrive in a competitive market.

At Powerhouse Consulting Group, Jenny and her team act as third-party intermediaries to guide businesses through the technology adoption process. They help contractors understand the intricacies of software implementation, identify potential roadblocks, and ensure the selected solutions align with the business’s unique needs. Having external experts manage this process relieves much of the burden for contractors and ensures that digital transformation efforts actually lead to improved efficiency and profitability.

Beyond technology, Jenny also touches on the growing number of women stepping into leadership roles within the trades industry. Trade organizations are offering programs that support women’s professional growth, helping them develop confidence and technical expertise. Jenny believes that women bring a unique combination of emotional intelligence and strategic thinking that strengthens businesses across the sector, and she encourages more women to claim their seat at the table.

Jenny Benbrook is the founder and CEO of Powerhouse Consulting Group, a firm specializing in software consulting services for the trades industry. With a strong background in helping contractors modernize their operations, Jenny’s mission is to empower businesses to navigate the complexities of digital transformation successfully. She is also passionate about promoting leadership opportunities for women in the trades and balancing her career with raising her family.

Powerhouse Consulting Group provides software consulting services tailored to the needs of home and exterior service contractors. The firm specializes in guiding companies through the adoption of field service management technology, offering ongoing support to ensure successful implementation. Their team bridges the gap between software providers and businesses, delivering customized strategies that drive operational efficiency and sustainable growth.

• Powerhouse Consulting Group Website
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2163 - Pete Neubig

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In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge engages in a dynamic conversation with Amanda Northcutt, founder and CEO of Level Up Creators. Amanda shares her expertise in helping coaches, consultants, and creators build businesses with stable, recurring revenue streams. This episode provides invaluable insights for anyone looking to establish a sustainable income model and grow their business in a way that doesn’t burn them out.

Amanda Northcutt is deeply passionate about helping subject matter experts—especially those in coaching, consulting, and the creator space—build businesses that rely on predictable, recurring revenue. Through her company, Level Up Creators, Amanda works with experienced coaches and consultants to help them scale by focusing on long-term client relationships and high-ticket services, rather than one-off engagements. This approach to business ensures entrepreneurs can focus on sustainability and stability instead of constantly chasing the next client.

At the core of Level Up Creators' methodology is the MRA (Monthly Recurring Revenue) Method, which helps clients generate a steady income stream through high-value, high-touch offerings. Additionally, Amanda’s MRA Accelerator program is designed to help clients achieve multi-five-figure monthly recurring revenue within just seven months. These programs emphasize building long-term relationships with clients, providing continuous value, and setting up systems that allow for predictable business growth.

Amanda's focus on long-term client relationships instead of short-term profits helps business owners reduce the stress associated with inconsistent income and promotes growth that lasts. This approach is not only about financial stability but also about creating a more fulfilling and sustainable business model.

Amanda Northcutt is a seasoned entrepreneur and the founder of Level Up Creators, where she helps coaches, consultants, and creators build businesses with recurring revenue streams. With 22 years of experience in consulting, start-ups, and marketing strategy, Amanda is a key figure in teaching others how to achieve sustainable wealth and business success. She also co-hosts The Level Up Creators Podcast, where she shares insights on business strategies and growth.

Level Up Creators is committed to empowering coaches, consultants, and creators to build long-term, recurring revenue. Their services include the Level Up Creator School, MRA Accelerator, and personalized coaching to help entrepreneurs scale their businesses while maintaining high-touch engagement with their clients. Their mission is to make recurring revenue accessible to creators and experts at all stages of business development.

• Level Up Creators Website
• Amanda Northcutt’s LinkedIn Profile
• Level Up Creator School...

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In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge sits down with Keren Eldad, an executive coach, professional speaker, and author of the book Gilded: Breaking Free from the Cage of Ambition, Perfectionism, and the Relentless Pursuit of More. Keren shares profound insights on the pressures faced by high achievers, societal expectations that often lead to feelings of entrapment, and the importance of prioritizing happiness and well-being over constant work and external success markers. The conversation serves as a roadmap for anyone looking to break free from the cycle of ambition and perfectionism to live a more fulfilling and joyful life.

Keren Eldad, also known as "Coach Keren," has dedicated her career to helping high achievers break free from the cycles of ambition, perfectionism, and the relentless pursuit of "more." Her clients include Olympic athletes, politicians, Hollywood stars, supermodels, Special Forces operatives, and serial entrepreneurs. Additionally, global organizations like Estée Lauder, J.P. Morgan, and Nike trust her expertise.

Her coaching approach focuses on identifying the self-imposed cages many high achievers find themselves in, where success is pursued relentlessly at the cost of happiness and fulfillment. Keren teaches that true success lies not in the relentless pursuit of more but in creating balance, realigning goals, and finding joy in the present. She emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, helping clients regularly assess their motivations and desires to determine whether they are aligned with their true selves or simply driven by societal pressures.

Keren’s book Gilded presents a 12-step program inspired by Alcoholics Anonymous, designed to guide individuals toward a more fulfilling existence. The book challenges the notion that success must come at the expense of happiness, offering readers a structured approach to reclaim their well-being and live a life that honors their true values.

Keren Eldad, known as "Coach Keren," is a renowned executive coach, speaker, and author of Gilded. Recognized as a Top Ten Executive Coach by the International Coaching Federation (ICF), Real Leaders Magazine, and Goop, Keren has made a significant impact on the coaching world. She works with high achievers globally, helping them overcome perfectionism and create more meaningful, balanced lives.

Keren’s clients range from Hollywood celebrities and Olympic athletes to leaders in major corporations like Estée Lauder, J.P. Morgan, and Nike. As a former C-suite executive with experience in 17 countries across four continents, Keren coaches in English, Spanish, Hebrew, and French. She also reaches a global audience through her TEDx talks, which have garnered half a million views.

Keren resides in Austin, Texas, with her husband, Ryan, and their many beloved pets.

*Keren Eldad’s book, Gilded: Breaking Free from the Cage of Ambition, Perfectionism, and the Relentless Pursuit of More, offers a transformative approach to helping individuals break free from the chains of relentless ambition and the pursuit of perfection. The 12-step program, inspired by the principles of Alcoholics Anonymous, guides readers toward achieving a balanced and fulfilling life by aligning their actions with their deeper, more authentic values. Gilded challenges the belief that success must be sacrificed at the cost of happiness and shows how true fulfillment comes from living authentically,...

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In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge sits down with Steve Smith, the founder and Business & Executive Coach of GrowthSource Coaching. Together, they dive into insightful discussions on personal growth, leadership, and how coaching can help entrepreneurs and business leaders thrive, especially in challenging times. Steve shares his expertise in leadership development and how it plays a pivotal role in achieving long-term success.

Steve Smith’s journey into coaching was marked by his willingness to embrace change and adapt. After spending 30 years in the consumer products industry, including stints with well-known companies like General Mills and Carter Wallace, Steve made a bold decision to transition into coaching. This shift wasn’t just a career move—it was a commitment to lifelong learning and personal growth. He shares that even with years of experience under his belt, he had to reframe his mindset to pursue something entirely new.

His story is a powerful reminder that embracing new challenges can unlock new levels of potential, no matter where you are in your career. Steve speaks about the critical role persistence plays in personal development. Whether it’s learning a new skill or shifting your professional focus, staying committed to continuous growth is a theme Steve lives by. As he learned from his own experiences, pushing past the discomfort of change can lead to deeper fulfillment and success.

Steve also reflects on the importance of coaching, explaining that business leaders often face challenges that can feel isolating. However, having the right guidance and support—whether from a coach or mentor—can significantly enhance clarity and performance. This rings especially true for entrepreneurs, who may be juggling multiple roles and responsibilities while trying to scale their businesses.

Steve Smith is a seasoned Business & Executive Coach and the founder of GrowthSource Coaching. With over 30 years of experience in consumer products manufacturing, including stints at top companies like General Mills and Carter Wallace, Steve transitioned into coaching in 2008 to help business owners, executives, and entrepreneurs realize their full potential. He has successfully worked with over 950 clients across various industries, helping them enhance their leadership and strategic thinking.

GrowthSource Coaching specializes in coaching business owners, executives, and leadership teams to unlock their potential and achieve long-term success. With a focus on personalized strategies, Steve and his team help clients navigate the challenges of leadership, business growth, and personal development.

• GrowthSource Coaching Website
• Steve Smith’s LinkedIn Profile
• Steve’s Podcast: The Business Wingmen

• Embrace...