In this engaging episode, Ella interviews Mark Steiner, the co-founder and CEO of GigSalad, a platform that connects entertainers with event planners. Mark shares his lifelong passion for the entertainment industry, recounting his journey from aspiring actor to successful entrepreneur. He discusses the inception of GigSalad, which began as a simple directory for entertainers and evolved into a leading marketplace for event services. Mark emphasizes the importance of connecting artists with opportunities, highlighting the diverse categories available on the platform, from musicians to magicians and everything in between.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to GigSalad and Mark Steiner

06:28 The Evolution of GigSalad

12:23 Balancing Technology and Real Life

18:42 Navigating Social Media and News Consumption

24:13 Personal Growth and Sobriety Journey

26:22 The Illusion of Political Knowledge

29:46 Finding Peace in a Chaotic World

30:55 Navigating the AI Landscape

38:24 The Entrepreneurial Journey

45:12 Embracing Creativity and Analytical Thinking

50:13 Pursuing Passion and Lifelong Learning

In this episode, Nikki Barua, a successful entrepreneur and author, discusses the transformative power of AI in entrepreneurship and the importance of lifelong learning. She emphasizes the need for individuals to adapt to the changing job landscape, the concept of agentic AI, and the significance of setting specific goals. Nikki shares insights from her book, 'Beyond Barriers,' and encourages listeners to embrace the journey of personal and professional growth.

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00:00 Introduction to Lifelong Learning and AI

02:45 The Entrepreneurial Landscape and AI

04:46 Navigating Job Displacement and Opportunities with AI

06:56 Understanding Agentic AI and Human Collaboration

10:18 The Future of AI and Its Impact on Society

12:15 Applying AI as Infrastructure for Innovation

12:28 Insights from 'Beyond Barriers' and Personal Growth

19:28 The Journey of Growth and Overcoming Stuckness

21:46 The Importance of Lifelong Learning and Unlearning

In this episode of the Lifelong Learners Collective, host Ella Kidd interviews Joshua Altman, managing director of Beltway Media, about the evolving landscape of legal marketing and communications. Joshua discusses the role of fractional chief communications officers, the importance of strategic communication, and how companies can effectively engage with their stakeholders. He emphasizes the need for businesses to adapt to changes in the market and the significance of integrating behavioral science into public relations strategies. The conversation also touches on the challenges of legal marketing, the importance of repurposing content, and advice for entrepreneurs looking to establish their own communication strategies.

In this episode of the Lifelong Learners Collective, host Ella Kidd speaks with Richard McWhorter, a seasoned wealth management advisor, about navigating the complexities of financial management in today's rapidly changing world. They discuss the impact of technological advancements, generational differences in financial perspectives, and the importance of curiosity and adaptability in wealth management. Richard shares insights on cryptocurrency investing, building multiple income streams, and understanding market dynamics amidst economic uncertainties.

Richard is the Managing Partner at SRM Private Wealth and was recently named to the Forbes 2024 Best-In-State Wealth Advisors List. With over 30 years in the industry, including executive roles at Smith Barney and Merrill Lynch, and $1.8 billion managed for ultra-high-net-worth individuals, athletes, and entertainers, he is a seasoned guide for those facing life’s big transitions. Richard is not just about numbers; he’s passionate about building lasting partnerships, having tough conversations, and helping families align their wealth with their core values.

Perry is a marketing automation specialist who’s been at it since 2002, from launching her first campaigns before most saw value in email, to beta testing HubSpot before it was a household name. Currently the Managing Partner at Duma Marketing, she’s worked with both Fortune 500 giants and rising e-commerce brands, always championing sophisticated automation, clean segmentation, and authentic customer journeys. Her approach blends empathy with rigorous data—the kind of balance your listeners appreciate—and her hands-on methods in CRM, deliverability, and regulatory compliance make her a go-to for complex challenges.

This conversation between Perry and Ella, explores the critical role of marketing automation and AI in processing consumer data and enhancing engagement for businesses, particularly for entrepreneurs and mid-sized companies. It emphasizes the necessity of these tools in creating tailored marketing strategies that resonate with diverse consumer segments.

Learn even more from Perry at www.perrysheraw.com

In this conversation, George Azar discusses the inherent fear surrounding taxes, emphasizing that this fear stems from a lack of understanding. He highlights the complexity of the tax code, which is designed to benefit the ultra wealthy, and the role of lobbying in maintaining this complexity. Azar's insights reveal how the tax system can be intimidating for individuals, particularly those who are not well-versed in its intricacies.

Summary

In this conversation, Neil Twa shares his journey from corporate life to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the e-commerce space. He discusses the importance of branding, the role of data and algorithms in online sales, and how AI is transforming the industry. Neil emphasizes the need for perseverance and ethical practices in business, encouraging listeners to seize opportunities and innovate in their ventures.

As a listener of LifeLong Learners Collective, you can claim a free copy of Neils book at:

https://www.voltagedm.com/freebook

then enter in the code "LIFELONG"

00:00 Introduction to E-commerce and Lifelong Learning

02:26 Neil's Journey: From Corporate to Entrepreneurship

06:27 Building a Brand: The Amazon Experience

09:46 The Importance of Branding and Product Ownership

14:32 Leveraging Data and Algorithms in E-commerce

17:12 The Role of AI in Modern Business

22:07 Navigating Product Life Cycles and Brand Strategy

27:55 Final Thoughts and the Future of E-commerce

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to E-commerce and Lifelong Learning

02:26 Neil's Journey: From Corporate to Entrepreneurship

06:27 Building a Brand: The Amazon Experience

09:46 The Importance of Branding and Product Ownership

14:32 Leveraging Data and Algorithms in E-commerce

17:12 The Role of AI in Modern Business

22:07 Navigating Product Life Cycles and Brand Strategy

27:55 Final Thoughts and the Future of E-commerce

Ian Freeman started his professional life in banking, but it was after some personal reevaluation—facing both challenges and unexpected lessons—that he made the leap into wealth management and insurance. He’s now the founder and lead wealth management advisor for The Freeman Group (part of Western Mutual), and has helped thousands secure their futures since 1987.

Ian’s journey is filled with stories of resilience, ethical leadership, and always putting people before profit—a mindset that’s guided him to sell nearly $2B in life insurance policies. He’s earned every one of his AEP, CASL, ChFC, and CLU designations by making authentic, long-lasting client relationships his highest priority. As an international speaker and author, Ian’s new book Life Beneath the Suit brings together real experiences from the financial world, showing how moments of uncertainty can inspire growth, emotional well-being, and a renewed sense of purpose.