All About Accountability with Gwen Bortner

All About Accountability with Gwen Bortner

In this episode Alison speaks with Gwen Bortner, founder of Everyday Effectiveness, about accountability and how it supports business results. They discuss her background in consulting across different industries and how that experience shaped her approach to helping entrepreneurs and organizations improve effectiveness. More importantly, they explore how accountability differs from simple task checking. Gwen defines it as an actual conversation that includes reflection and problem solving, rather than just asking whether something was done. They also discuss why accountability can be difficult, including the fact that it often requires uncomfortable questions and honest self-examination. Alison and Gwen look at accountability in the context of client experience and coaching. They talk about whether business processes are truly serving clients or simply making things easier for the business, and how weekly asynchronous written check-ins can help clients see their progress over time. Gwen identifies three elements that make accountability work: consistency, focus, and feedback. They cover the value of narrowing attention to one to three priorities, and discuss how changing questions from “why” to “what” can reduce defensiveness and lead to better problem solving. She also notes the importance of reviewing what has gone right, not only what needs to change, so that effective patterns can be repeated. HIGHLIGHTS: 1:15 Accountability in business 8:01 Client experience through accountability 13:18 When fit matters most 15:46 The three accountability pillars 21:13 Practical accountability tips connect with Gwen: website: https://everydayeffectiveness.com [https://everydayeffectiveness.com] The Business You Really Want: https://www.youtube.com/@EverydayEffectiveness1 [https://www.youtube.com/@EverydayEffectiveness1] SPONSOR: Cellev8 [https://cellev8.com/] Discount code: THEALISONK PODCAST WEBSITE & LINKS: Website [https://thealisonk.com/] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/alison.h.katschkowsky] | Twitter [https://twitter.com/ahkats] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/thealisonk/] JOIN The 360 CLUB [https://thealisonk.com/innovation-avenue-360] GET MY FREE 4 part Pop-up Podcast Series [https://thealisonk.com/the-retreat-id-method] JOIN Borderless Hybrid Innovators FB Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/869889620262089] INNOVATION AVENUE: Fitness and Self-Care Revolution [https://www.facebook.com/groups/743439322342659/]

Recap of The Retreat Industry Forum

Alison reflects on the first Retreat Industry Forum, which was created for retreat leaders after realizing there were few dedicated industry events. She shares how the forum was planned and how much value was placed on in-person connection, better conversations, and follow-up. She also recaps the main themes from the program, including pricing, sustainable retreat positioning, advertising, legal issues, sales, leadership, AI, SEO, and retreat logistics. She shares about her talk on retreat promises, where people buy the specific outcome and identity shift, not just the itinerary. Alison finishes with reflections from attendees and the VIP day, which went deeper on SEO prompts, pricing, and retreat promise work. She closes with her takeaways that the work reflects our own journey, the retreat industry needs more community and structure, and being in the room can create opportunities. HIGHLIGHTS: 1:15 Forum Origins and Big Ideas 4:36 In-Person Changes Everything 6:57 Holding the Vision 9:30 Welcome Reception Begins 11:17 Make Five New Connections 21:55 VIP Dinner Sparks Collaboration 26:51 Three Key Takeaways 28:45 Community and Infrastructure 30:14 Say Yes to the Room mentioned in episode: Sancerre Retreat: https://sl1nk.com/dl0vfwk [https://sl1nk.com/dl0vfwk] SPONSOR: Cellev8 [https://cellev8.com/] Discount code: THEALISONK PODCAST WEBSITE & LINKS: Website [https://thealisonk.com/] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/alison.h.katschkowsky] | Twitter [https://twitter.com/ahkats] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/thealisonk/] JOIN The 360 CLUB [https://thealisonk.com/innovation-avenue-360] GET MY FREE 4 part Pop-up Podcast Series [https://thealisonk.com/the-retreat-id-method] JOIN Borderless Hybrid Innovators FB Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/869889620262089] INNOVATION AVENUE: Fitness and Self-Care Revolution [https://www.facebook.com/groups/743439322342659/]

Podcasting in Your Business with Line Brunet

In this episode, Alison had the pleasure of reconnecting with her producer, Line Brunet, who has been an integral part of Alison's podcasting journey for nearly seven years. Together, they dive into the significance of podcasting in the modern business landscape, discussing how it enhances personal branding and the unique advantages it can bring to any business. The two explore the current state of the podcasting industry, noting its incredible growth, especially since the pandemic. Line highlights how more celebrities have entered the space, further propelling its popularity, yet acknowledges that many still lack a clear understanding of what podcasting is, which is a fresh and evolving medium, with countless untapped opportunities for connection and brand-building. Unlike other platforms that might deliver a more superficial engagement, podcasts allow for deeper audience connections, as listeners invest substantial time engaging with hosts and their content. They also address the long-game mentality required in podcasting. Alison recalls the foundational advice from Line that success doesn’t come overnight and that consistency and promotion are paramount. They discuss the necessity of regularly engaging with your audience, even when you’re not producing new content. Employing strategies to keep listeners informed about past episodes and leveraging platforms to maintain visibility ensures that your podcast remains relevant and continues to grow. As they transition into emerging trends, Line mentions the resurgence of grassroots podcasting and the growing interest in community-focused content. She reveals how podcasters are experimenting with innovative formats, such as live recordings and interactive Q&As, which enhance listener participation and foster a sense of belonging. They acknowledge that while video might be taking over certain spaces, audio still reigns supreme as the preferred medium for accessibility and multitasking. HIGHLIGHTS: 2:13 Meet Line Brunet 3:57 The Rise of Podcasting 4:44 Benefits of Podcasting 8:19 Building a Personal Brand 9:15 Navigating Podcasting Trends 15:23 The Future of Podcasting 22:11 Advice for Aspiring Podcasters connect with Line website: https://www.iamlinebrunet.com [https://www.iamlinebrunet.com] Instagram: @iamlinebrunet Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/linebrunet [https://www.facebook.com/linebrunet] SPONSOR: Cellev8 [https://cellev8.com/] Discount code: THEALISONK PODCAST WEBSITE & LINKS: Website [https://thealisonk.com/] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/alison.h.katschkowsky] | Twitter [https://twitter.com/ahkats] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/thealisonk/] JOIN The 360 CLUB [https://thealisonk.com/innovation-avenue-360] GET MY FREE 4 part Pop-up Podcast Series [https://thealisonk.com/the-retreat-id-method] JOIN Borderless Hybrid Innovators FB Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/869889620262089] INNOVATION AVENUE: Fitness and Self-Care Revolution [https://www.facebook.com/groups/743439322342659/]

From a Mindset to a Brand with Ash Davis

Alison is joined by Ash Davis, a friend and fellow entrepreneur with an inspiring journey that spans multiple industries. They delve into his remarkable transition from a successful corporate career, where he served as a national vice president of operations, to establishing his own brand, FTDS—an impactful mantra that encapsulates a mindset geared towards resilience and focus, essential for success in both personal and professional realms. Ash's narrative begins with his roots in corporate media, where he honed his skills as a writer, producer, and engineer for over two decades. He recounts the pivotal moment when he decided to leave this stable career in 2014 to pursue his passions in real estate, writing, and ultimately, his burgeoning brand. This journey was not without its challenges and his experience illustrates the deep relationship between life events and entrepreneurial evolution. They explore Ash's ventures into writing, to his TED Talk about the significance of letter writing in an age dominated by digital communication. This endeavor was not just about publishing; it served as a foundation for his philosophy that encourages individuals to build meaningful connections through personal expression. As they discuss Ash’s latest initiative with FTDS, he shares insights into the power of branding based on personal philosophy. The mantra serves not only as a clothing line and motivational tool but as a beacon for those looking to cut through the noise of daily distractions. This brand aims to resonate with a diverse audience—from teenagers managing social pressures to professionals navigating career complexities—by offering practical advice on how to prioritize what truly matters. Throughout their conversation, Ash emphasizes the importance of community and mentorship in entrepreneurship. By vocalizing his ambitions and surrounding himself with like-minded individuals, he was able to gain accountability and valuable insights that propelled his brand forward. They also touch upon the role of technology in modern entrepreneurship, particularly how Ash leverages tools like social media and AI to refine his message and engage with his audience. HIGHLIGHTS: 1:15 Introduction to FTDS 7:15 The Evolution of a Brand 16:08 The Power of a Mantra 21:33 Building a Business Plan 28:25 Leveraging Connections for Success 31:27 Embracing Failure and Growth connect with Ash website: https://teamftds.com [https://teamftds.com] A Life Through Letters: https://www.alifethroughletters.com [https://www.alifethroughletters.com] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fckthedumbsht [https://www.instagram.com/fckthedumbsht] SPONSOR: Cellev8 [https://cellev8.com/] Discount code: THEALISONK PODCAST WEBSITE & LINKS: Website [https://thealisonk.com/] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/alison.h.katschkowsky] | Twitter [https://twitter.com/ahkats] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/thealisonk/] JOIN The 360 CLUB [https://thealisonk.com/innovation-avenue-360] GET MY FREE 4 part Pop-up Podcast Series [https://thealisonk.com/the-retreat-id-method] JOIN Borderless Hybrid Innovators FB Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/869889620262089] INNOVATION AVENUE: Fitness and Self-Care Revolution [https://www.facebook.com/groups/743439322342659/]

Thoughts From a Hybrid Practice Model with Jennifer Teplin

In this episode, Alison dives into the unique intersection of self-care and the client experience, particularly in the wellness industry. She's joined by Jennifer Teplin, the CEO and founder of a transformative hybrid therapy practice that balances in-person and virtual services and they explore how this innovative model not only meets clients where they are but also enhances therapeutic outcomes. Jennifer shares her entrepreneurial journey and the creation of Manhattan Wellness, which has grown from a small team to over 30 full-time therapists serving hundreds of clients weekly across several states. They discuss the importance of adaptability in business, notably how the pandemic forced many practices, including Jennifer’s, to pivot to virtual services. This transition led to unforeseen growth and allowed her practice to expand rapidly. As they go deeper into the client experience, Jennifer unveils her “gold standard” framework, designed to ensure that each client interaction is exceptional, efficient, and compassionate. From rapid responses to inquiries to streamlined therapy matching, they explore the proactive measures her practice takes to eliminate friction points. For instance, Jennifer highlights the importance of immediate communication and personalized placement, which has significantly increased client satisfaction rates. The conversation also touches on the work-life balance challenges that come with being an entrepreneur. Jennifer candidly shares her reflections on managing her responsibilities while preparing for her third child and how she strives to maintain self-care amidst the hustle. Her insights into setting boundaries and prioritizing non-negotiables are invaluable for anyone navigating similar pressures in business. Jennifer’s commitment to continuous improvement is evident as she shares her strategies for hiring and training staff, highlighting the importance of nurturing talent within her practice. The innovative approach of bringing in clinical fellows not only serves clients in need of affordable therapy but also allows new therapists to gain meaningful experience and enhance their skills. HIGHLIGHTS: 5:31 The Journey of Hybrid Therapy 11:18 Adapting to the Pandemic 15:16 Balancing In-Person and Virtual Therapy 21:00 Establishing a Gold Standard 24:31 Innovating Through Challenges 29:51 Taking the First Step 32:35 Prioritizing Self-Care as a Business Owner connect with Jennifer Get Therapy Tips: https://manhattanwellness.myflodesk.com/reframe [https://manhattanwellness.myflodesk.com/reframe] Manhattan Wellness: https://manhattanwellness.org [https://manhattanwellness.org] SPONSOR: Cellev8 [https://cellev8.com/] Discount code: THEALISONK PODCAST WEBSITE & LINKS: Website [https://thealisonk.com/] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/alison.h.katschkowsky] | Twitter [https://twitter.com/ahkats] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/thealisonk/] JOIN The 360 CLUB [https://thealisonk.com/innovation-avenue-360] GET MY FREE 4 part Pop-up Podcast Series [https://thealisonk.com/the-retreat-id-method] JOIN Borderless Hybrid Innovators FB Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/869889620262089] INNOVATION AVENUE: Fitness and Self-Care Revolution [https://www.facebook.com/groups/743439322342659/]