Summary

In this episode, Ryan and Mike interview Jonathan Stark, a consultant and author, who shares his journey from software development to coaching on value-based pricing. They discuss the pitfalls of hourly billing, the importance of understanding value, and the significance of the 'why' conversation in client interactions. Jonathan emphasizes the need for a shift in perspective from self-interest to client satisfaction, and he outlines effective pricing strategies, including the use of guarantees to mitigate risk. The conversation also touches on establishing authority in one's field and the benefits of narrowing focus to become a recognized expert.

Takeaways

• Jonathan Stark transitioned from software development to coaching on pricing.
• Hourly billing can lead to misaligned incentives and poor client outcomes.
• Value-based pricing focuses on the client's perceived value rather than costs.
• The 'why' conversation helps uncover client motivations and needs.
• Setting prices based on value can lead to better profitability.
• Offering guarantees can alleviate client concerns about quality and service.
• Establishing authority in a niche can lead to higher pricing and demand.
• Narrowing focus helps in becoming a recognized expert in a field.
• Proposals should offer multiple pricing tiers to maximize client options.
• Understanding customer satisfaction is key to long-term business success.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jonathan Stark

02:56 The Shift from Hourly Billing to Value-Based Pricing

09:31 Understanding Value-Based Pricing

12:56 The Importance of the 'Why' Conversation

18:47 Negotiating Prices and Payment Terms

25:39 Shifting Perspective: From Self to Client

30:42 Creating Customer Satisfaction

38:57 Proposals and Pricing Strategies

47:49 Guarantees and Risk Mitigation

59:52 Establishing Authority in Your Field

Credits:

Hosted by Ryan Roghaar and Michael Smith

Produced by Ryan Roghaar

Theme music: "Perfect Day" by OPM

The Eggs Podcast Spotify playlist:

bit.ly/eggstunes

The Plugs:

The Show: eggscast.com

@eggshow on X and Instagram

On iTunes: itun.es/i6dX3pCOn

Stitcher: bit.ly/eggs_on_stitcher

Also available on Google Play Music!

Mike "DJ Ontic":

Shows and info: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠djontic.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

@djontic on twitter

Ryan Roghaar:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠rogha.ar

Summary

In this episode, we explore the journey of Caleb Mellas, a senior software engineer and tech lead at Olo Inc. Caleb shares his transition from landscaping to software engineering, the challenges of freelancing, and the impact of imposter syndrome on his career. He discusses his experiences at Wisely, the acquisition by Olo, and his recent shift into engineering management. Throughout the conversation, Caleb emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, building a strong professional network, and the value of soft skills in advancing one's career.

Takeaways

• Imposter syndrome can be a sign of growth.
• Starting as a landscaper, Caleb found his passion in tech.
• Freelancing taught him valuable lessons about income stability.
• Transitioning to full-time work brought new challenges.
• Building a strong network is crucial for career growth.
• Continuous learning is essential in the tech industry.
• The acquisition of Wisely led to new opportunities at Olo.
• Engineering management requires a different skill set than coding.
• Soft skills are vital for career advancement.
• Sharing experiences on LinkedIn can help others in their careers.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Caleb Mellis and His Journey

03:00 Transitioning from Landscaping to Software Engineering

05:55 Freelancing and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

09:07 Navigating the Feast and Famine Cycle in Freelancing

12:05 From Freelance to Full-Time: The Shift in Mindset

14:59 Learning New Technologies and Overcoming Challenges

17:52 The Importance of Consistent Learning and Growth

21:12 Interviewing Strategies and Standing Out in the Tech Industry

24:39 Going Above and Beyond in Job Applications

27:15 The Importance of Relationship Development in Interviews

29:09 Navigating Early Career Challenges

32:41 Innovative Solutions in Restaurant Technology

35:01 Developing a Growth Mindset

37:31 Experiencing Company Acquisition

40:28 Transitioning from Engineer to Manager

44:51 Balancing Technical Skills and Leadership

47:16 Building a Professional Network on LinkedIn

Credits:

Hosted by Ryan Roghaar

Produced by Ryan Roghaar

Theme music: "Perfect Day" by OPM

The Eggs Podcast Spotify playlist:

bit.ly/eggstunes

The Plugs:

The Show: eggscast.com

@eggshow on X and Instagram

On iTunes: itun.es/i6dX3pCOn

Stitcher: bit.ly/eggs_on_stitcher

Also available on Google Play Music!

Mike "DJ Ontic":

Shows and info: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠djontic.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

@djontic on twitter

Ryan Roghaar:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠rogha.ar

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Peter Murphy Lewis shares his entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the importance of human connection, the role of AI in marketing, and the value of authenticity in building relationships. He discusses the challenges faced by businesses today and offers actionable strategies for small business growth, highlighting the significance of attention and the effective use of data. The dialogue also explores cultural insights gained from Peter's experiences in Latin America, reinforcing the idea that personal connections are vital in a tech-driven world.

Takeaways

• Peter's journey reflects the uncertainty many entrepreneurs face.
• Success often comes from being comfortable with being wrong.
• AI can enhance creativity but should not replace human insight.
• Building relationships is key to business success.
• Cultural experiences can shape personal and professional growth.
• Authenticity in marketing fosters true connections with customers.
• Attention is the most valuable currency in marketing today.
• Data should be used wisely to inform business strategies.
• Brick-and-mortar businesses have unique opportunities with AI.
• The future of marketing lies in perspective and human touch.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Peter Murphy Lewis and His Journey

03:05 The Uncertain Path of Entrepreneurship

05:51 Navigating AI in Creative Industries

08:46 The Importance of Human Connection

11:57 Cultural Insights from Latin America

15:10 Building Relationships in Business

17:55 Challenges in Business Strategy

22:02 Navigating Data in Marketing Strategies

25:03 The Role of AI in Marketing Execution

30:04 Human Insight vs. AI Automation

35:18 Identifying Opportunities in Brick and Mortar

37:35 Strategies for Growing Small Businesses

Links from the show:

strategicpete.com

Credits:

Hosted by Ryan Roghaar

Produced by Ryan Roghaar

Theme music: "Perfect Day" by OPM

The Eggs Podcast Spotify playlist:

bit.ly/eggstunes

The Plugs:

The Show: eggscast.com

@eggshow on X and Instagram

On iTunes: itun.es/i6dX3pCOn

Stitcher: bit.ly/eggs_on_stitcher

Also available on Google Play Music!

Mike "DJ Ontic":

Shows and info: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠djontic.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

@djontic on twitter

Ryan Roghaar:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠rogha.ar