Business, Bourbon and Cigars
Business Bourbon & Cigars isn’t just another business podcast. It’s where ambitious entrepreneurs come to hear from proven leaders who’ve faced the toughest challenges and found strategies that work. Hosted by Scott Joseph, founder of Me Plus Ultra, each episode offers no-nonsense insights into scaling businesses, refining leadership, and building a life of purpose, backed by real-world examples and actionable advice. Scott’s solo episodes give you the behind-the-scenes strategies he’s used to grow and pivot his businesses, ideas that are also being put into practice by high-performing members of the Me Plus Ultra mastermind group. From mastering self-awareness to transforming business models, Scott shares the tactics that have led to measurable success and personal fulfillment. But it’s not just about Scott’s journey. In our interview episodes, you’ll hear from top entrepreneurs and industry leaders who’ve shaped their own success. Think of it like getting access to the playbooks of those who’ve truly made it, leaders like Claudio Gambin, financial strategist, and Jay Tepley, business transformation expert. These guests don’t just talk theory, they share the practical tools, mindset shifts, and real-life examples that helped them overcome setbacks and scale their businesses. Each episode is designed to give you something you can apply to your own business immediately. Whether you’re at a crossroads, looking to innovate, or want to rethink your leadership approach, you’ll find guidance that cuts through the fluff and addresses real pain points. And while the podcast name Business Bourbon & Cigars might evoke a certain image of success, it’s more than just a theme, it’s about taking the time to savor growth. In business, as in life, we’re all looking for ways to enjoy the journey, to take the time to reflect, and to make better, more intentional decisions. No matter how you choose to unwind, the show’s spirit remains the same: it’s about unlocking growth, both professionally and personally. What can you expect to learn? Practical growth strategies that are actually working today, from high-level business owners and entrepreneurs. Actionable leadership advice for those ready to lead with clarity, accountability, and authenticity. Real-life stories from guests who’ve faced adversity and used it as a springboard for innovation and lasting success. Tangible steps you can implement in your own life and business to elevate your impact, grow your network, and break through the noise. Business Bourbon & Cigars is not for the faint of heart. It’s for those who know that growth isn’t just about doing more, it’s about becoming more. If you’re tired of surface-level advice and want real strategies from people who have walked the path, subscribe now. Why listen to this podcast? Hear specific strategies from experts like Claudio Gambin (who’s helped countless clients master wealth-building strategies) and Jay Tepley (who’s led transformative retreats that have changed the lives of entrepreneurs). Get insights on how to scale smarter, innovate faster, and lead with greater focus and confidence. Walk away from each episode with actionable insights you can immediately apply to your own business. If you’re ready to challenge your thinking, elevate your business, and grow as a leader, Business Bourbon & Cigars is the podcast you’ve been looking for.
Episodes
What is a “virtual hot seat” in a mastermind group?
In this episode, Scott Joseph explores how the virtual hot seat technique, which he used in his mastermind group, helped him launch a new business from scratch. The virtual hot seat process helps business leaders overcome challenges by providing a structured environment for problem-solving and feedback. For Scott, it forced him to focus on one core challenge, and throug...
Are your goals truly aligned with the life you want to live—or are you just checking off boxes? Also, how can you transition from chasing financial success to creating meaningful impact?
Join Scott as he explores:
(01:45) Are You Living the Life You Want?
* Most people treat goal setting like a to-do list instead of a pathway to purpose.
* Real growth comes from aligning personal and professional ambitions.
(03:56) The Mes...
What are the fundamental differences between scaling and growing a business? Also, when is the right time to bring in a fractional COO or CFO?
In this episode, Scott and his guest break down the key differences between scaling and growing, the financial blind spots that business owners often overlook, and how fractional leadership can be a game-changer
Today’s guest is Michael Straza, a fractional COO and CFO who brings hands-o...
How can self-assessment tools transform your leadership approach?
In this episode, Scott Joseph explores the pivotal role of self-awareness and self-assessment in business and leadership growth. Sharing his journey with J&L Marketing, Scott reveals how confronting his blind spots led to dramatic business growth. Tune in to learn practical steps, powerful tools, and actionable insights to unlock your full potential.
Join Scott as ...
What are the biggest barriers to change, and how can you overcome them? How does embracing transformation unlock both personal and professional success?
In this episode, Scott shares his own journey of breaking through stagnation, shifting his mindset, and embracing continuous growth. Listeners will walk away with a simple, actionable framework to adapt to change, build resilience, and achieve lasting success.
Join Scott as he explor...
Is your business ready for a successful exit? If it isn’t, what are the critical steps to prepare your business for a profitable sale?
Today’s guest is Marty Fahncke, a marketing and M&A pro with over 30 years of experience turning small businesses into giants. Known for his billion-dollar strategies and knack for making complex deals look easy, Marty’s here to share his wisdom.
Join Scott and Marty as they explore:&n...
What strategies can you use to differentiate your business from competitors and attract premium clients?
This episode of Business Bourbon & Cigars dives into actionable strategies for attracting high-value clients and growing your business. Host Scott Joseph shares personal stories and insights from his mastermind group, emphasizing the importance of detailed client personas, seamless sales processes, and emotional connections. ...
How does trust directly impact a company’s top and bottom line?
Natalie Doyle Oldfield is a recognized thought leader when it comes to the topic of trust. The founder of Success Through Trust Inc, she is on a mission to make trust the cornerstone of every business.
Join Scott and Natalie as they explore:
* Natalie’s new book, Trusted: The Proven Path to Customer Loyalty and Business Growth.
* Why "trust equity" ...
Why is collaboration between you, your attorney, and your accountant essential for business success?
Matthew Fornaro is a business attorney who knows the entrepreneurial journey firsthand. He helps entrepreneurs succeed with strong legal strategies and practical advice.
Join Scott and Matthew as they explore:
* The importance of creating a written business plan to set a strong foundation.
* How attorneys and accountan...
What are the six key plays for achieving a healthy, profitable business?
Today’s guest is Stewart Ervin, the founder of Bracket Management and a seasoned fractional CFO who loves helping businesses thrive. With a knack for turning chaos into clarity, Stewart has spent his career empowering leaders to grow their companies and create lasting value.
Join Scott and Stewart as they explore:
* What a fractional CFO is and how ...
What steps could you take to start building generational wealth today?
In this episode, Scott talks with a powerhouse real estate investor with over $1 billion in multifamily transactions. Veena Jetti shares her journey of breaking into the male-dominated industry, building generational wealth, and empowering others through her community-focused initiatives.
Today’s guest, Veena Jetti, is a dynamic real estate investor and the ...
How can companies effectively leverage AI to drive digital transformation and enhance client experience?
West Stringfellow is a product and technology visionary with a knack for driving innovation and a track record that includes top roles at Amazon, PayPal, Visa, and Target. He's also the founder of HowDo, a company dedicated to coaching and consulting businesses on how to leverage data and technology for gr...
How can business owners plan and execute a successful business exit?
This episode offers expert insights on planning for a lucrative business exit, including building a strong succession plan, identifying and filling value gaps, and protecting your business during economic downturns. Wayne Zell, a seasoned business transaction expert, shares invaluable advice and real-world examples, emphasizing the importance of starting earl...
How can entrepreneurs use AI and tech-driven platforms to solve real world problems?
Have you ever met a tech startup expert who also dabbles in filmmaking, music, and writing? Meet Jason Sherman, the award-winning filmmaker turned tech entrepreneur who's here to inspire you to embrace innovation and achieve your most audacious goals. Jason is also the CEO of Vengo AI and the Spinnr app.
Join Scott and Jason as they e...
Why do some companies continuously innovate while others struggle to keep up? Also, as an entrepreneur, how can you foster innovation within your business?
Nick Jain, CEO of IdeaScale, is a leading innovator and business leader with a passion for helping organizations build a culture of innovation. With experience working with clients like NASA, Comcast, and Doctors Without Borders, Nick brings a wealth of knowledge to the tab...
As an entrepreneur, are you leaving money on the table?
In this episode, Scott sits down with James D. Wilton to discuss strategies for monetizing products and services. James shares insights on company objectives, pricing models, and the importance of perceived value.
James D. Wilton is a pricing expert and the founder of Monovate. He has over 12 years of experience helping companies implement creative pricing strategies.
<...
What role does a company's culture play in talent acquisition and retention? Also, what strategies can leaders use to build trust in a fast-growing company?
Today’s guest is Jen Thornton, a talent strategy wizard with over 20 years of experience in leadership development and organizational growth. She’s not your typical HR professional; Jennifer has a knack for aligning business goals with the right talent, helping companies thrive ...
How can teaching business and economics to middle schoolers prepare them for real-world challenges?
Today’s guest is John Rock Foster, the founder of Middle School MBA, where he’s revolutionizing the way kids learn about business, economics, and entrepreneurship. With a background in engineering and corporate strategy, he now dedicates his time to empowering young minds through fun, real-world business lessons.
Join Scott and John as...
What are the key steps to transitioning from an operator to an owner in your business? How do you build a team that can run your business without you?
Pete Mohr is a business owner turned coach who’s passionate about helping entrepreneurs break free from the daily grind. He’s the founder of Simplifying Entrepreneurship and has mastered the art of moving from operator to owner.
Join Scott and Pete as they explore:
* Tra...
What are some practical ways entrepreneurs to authentically use Linkedin for business growth?
Colin Hirdman is an expert on growth marketing who has started numerous companies, and now focuses on helping people succeed on LinkedIn.
Join Scott and Colin as they explore:
* Colin talks about starting a company despite having no business background, building software, and embracing a high failure rate.
*...
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