Smart Business Revolution | Turn Relationships into Revenues | Networking | More Clients | Relationship Advice

Jason Patel is the CEO and Co-founder of Open Forge AI, a platform of AI agents that automates the entire workflow for AI search marketing, helping businesses get discovered on platforms like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Perplexity. Under his leadership, Open Forge AI has emerged as a leading innovator, achieving profitability, rapid customer growth, and over 45,000 YouTube subscribers in four months — outpacing many venture-backed competitors. Jason is known for his practical insights on AI search, democratized online visibility, and how businesses can compete as AI-driven discovery reshapes marketing. In this episode… As AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Perplexity reshape how people search and discover companies, many entrepreneurs are rethinking their SEO strategies." What does it really take to get found — and stay competitive in this shifting environment? Jason Patel, an AI search marketing entrepreneur and technology founder, shares hard-earned lessons from navigating this transition firsthand. Jason originally set out to support underserved students, but early setbacks prompted him to refine his strategy, which ultimately led to rapid growth and a successful exit through SEO. As AI began transforming search behavior, he pivoted once again — this time building a platform that learns each client's business and dynamically improves visibility across AI search tools, emphasizing adaptability and long-term results. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Jason Patel, CEO and Co-founder of Open Forge AI, about mastering AI-first search visibility and future-proof marketing. Jason breaks down how businesses can move beyond traditional SEO, gain traction on emerging AI platforms, and capitalize on early-mover advantage. They also discuss customer-led product development, platform risks, and AI's broader impact on jobs and economic opportunity.

Roland Ligtenberg is the Co-founder and SVP of Growth & Innovation at Housecall Pro, a leading vertical SaaS platform that empowers home service professionals to manage and grow their businesses more efficiently. Under Roland's leadership, Housecall Pro has scaled to serve over 100,000 home service professionals, powering tens of billions of dollars in gross merchandise volume, and pioneering the use of AI team members to streamline operations for its customers. In this episode… What if the people keeping our homes running could grow their businesses without burning out on paperwork and missed calls? And what if AI wasn't about replacing jobs, but about giving small, hands-on entrepreneurs a real edge in a world that keeps demanding more from them? According to Roland Ligtenberg, a longtime builder of technology for real-world problems, the answer lies in using AI as a set of practical teammates rather than shiny experiments. He believes blue collar business owners shouldn't have to choose between doing the work they love and managing the back office chaos that comes with growth. When AI can answer phones, track finances, and surface insights the same way a seasoned assistant would, it frees owners to focus on jobs, customers, and building wealth that lasts. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Roland Ligtenberg, Co-founder and SVP of Growth & Innovation at Housecall Pro, about harnessing AI to empower blue collar entrepreneurs. They discuss how AI "team members" help home service businesses handle more demand, why mobile-first software was critical for trades, and how technology can remove hiring bottlenecks. Roland also gives advice on building a mission-driven company that stays meaningful as it scales.

John Corcoran is a recovering attorney, an author, and a former White House writer and speechwriter to the Governor of California. Throughout his career, John has worked in Hollywood, the heart of Silicon Valley, and run his boutique law firm in the San Francisco Bay Area, catering to small business owners and entrepreneurs. Since 2012, John has been the host of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast, where he has interviewed hundreds of CEOs, founders, authors, and entrepreneurs, including Peter Diamandis, Adam Grant, Gary Vaynerchuk, and Marie Forleo. John is also the Co-founder of Rise25, a company that connects B2B businesses with their ideal clients, referral partners, and strategic partners. They help their clients generate ROI through their done-for-you podcast service. In this episode… Many professionals struggle to stand out online and build the relationships that fuel business growth, often feeling overwhelmed or plagued by impostor syndrome as they step into thought leadership. With countless tools and platforms competing for attention, it's hard to know where to focus. How can you overcome self-doubt, use modern tools effectively, and build meaningful B2B connections? John Corcoran, a seasoned entrepreneur and relationship-building expert, faced these challenges directly by applying clear frameworks, smart technology, and a people-first mindset. Drawing on resources like Winnie Hart's The Daily Thought Leader, John shares how consistent, practical content can build credibility and quiet self-doubt. He also explains how AI note-taking tools and intentional email welcome sequences helped him boost productivity, nurture prospects, and turn casual interest into lasting professional relationships. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as Chad Franzen of Rise25 interviews John Corcoran about leveraging thought leadership and technology to build real B2B relationships. They discuss overcoming impostor syndrome, leveraging AI note-taking tools, and creating an effective email welcome series that nurtures leads and opens doors to new partnerships.

Josh Levine is the Co-Founder and Chief Revenue Officer of Color More Lines, a boutique e-commerce consulting firm that helps brands accelerate growth on Amazon and Walmart by providing a white-glove, performance-based service. Under Josh's leadership, Color More Lines has scaled brands to impressive growth, leveraging a team of experienced e-commerce experts and helping clients navigate the world's leading retail platforms. With a diverse background spanning government, technology, and entertainment, Josh has held roles at Microsoft and Disney. He is known for his growth strategy expertise and dynamic career journey, which includes working at the White House before launching successful tech ventures. He is also the Managing Partner at Growth Avenue, an advisory firm helping entrepreneurial CEOs scale smarter, exit faster, and win defining moments. In this episode… Many professionals want to build meaningful relationships with influential leaders, but figuring out how to break through can feel overwhelming. When your career spans politics, global tech companies, and entrepreneurship, the stakes — and the lessons —mrise even higher. What does it actually take to turn unexpected challenges into long-term success and lasting connections? Josh Levine, an expert in e-commerce growth and strategic partnerships, learned this firsthand. Early experiences — from being kicked out of a baseball card convention at 13 to navigating fast-paced work in the Clinton White House — taught Josh how adaptability and genuine rapport open doors. Josh later drove major initiatives at Disney and Microsoft, including negotiating the first Google–Microsoft collaboration, before weathering the unpredictable world of Silicon Valley startups. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Josh Levine, Co-Founder and Chief Revenue Officer of Color More Lines, about forging meaningful industry connections. Josh also discusses navigating major career pivots, lessons from high-pressure roles, and how curiosity fuels innovation in a rapidly changing landscape.

Jodi Daniels is the Founder and CEO of Red Clover Advisors, a boutique data privacy consultancy and one of the few certified Women's Business Enterprises focused solely on privacy. She is a Certified Informational Privacy Professional (CIPP/US) with over 20 years of experience helping a range of businesses — from solopreneurs to multinational companies — in privacy, marketing, strategy, and finance roles. She has worked with numerous companies throughout her corporate career, including Deloitte, The Home Depot, Cox Enterprises, Bank of America, and many more. Jodi is also a national keynote speaker, a member of the Forbes Business Council, and co-host of the She Said Privacy/He Said Security podcast. In this episode… AI is moving faster than most businesses can keep up, and the rush to adopt new tools often hides the very real risks lurking underneath. Companies are plugging sensitive data into platforms they barely understand, assuming privacy will simply take care of itself. But what happens when the tools meant to make our lives easier open the door to entirely new vulnerabilities? According to Jodi Daniels, a longtime authority on digital privacy, the risks aren't theoretical — they're already happening. She explains that privacy challenges usually emerge when companies collect or use data in ways people never expected. Jodi emphasizes that the real issue isn't just technology; it's whether companies are thoughtful about how data is collected, shared, and protected. Her core message is clear: in an AI-driven world, responsible data practices aren't optional — they're a competitive and ethical necessity. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast, as John Corcoran interviews Jodi Daniels, Founder and CEO of Red Clover Advisors, to discuss managing privacy risks in the age of AI. They talk about the evolution of data regulation, how businesses can avoid common privacy missteps, and what companies should know before using AI tools. Jodi also provides insights on evaluating software vendors and protecting sensitive information.

Emanuel Rose is the CEO of Strategic eMarketing, which helps B2B companies in IT services, SaaS, and financial services generate high-quality leads through innovative marketing strategies. With over 25 years of experience as an author, speaker, and B2B marketing strategist, Emanuel is widely recognized for his work integrating AI and automation into marketing. He explores these innovations on his podcast, Marketing in the Age of AI. In this episode… Some business eras evolve; others hit like a tidal shift — and AI-driven marketing sits squarely in the latter. Tools are advancing faster than teams can adapt, leaving many torn between excitement and overwhelm. How do you cut through the noise and navigate these rapid industry changes? According to Emanuel Rose, a veteran B2B marketing strategist and early adopter of AI in real-world marketing workflows, the path forward starts with practicality, not panic. He believes the biggest opportunity right now isn't flashy automation or massive content output — winning back time by offloading the mundane tasks that bog teams down. Emanuel explains how AI personalizes outreach, from analyzing a prospect's online presence to spotting natural conversation openings. He compares this period to the rise of social media in the early 2010s: a disruptive force that rewards those who stay one chapter ahead. For Emanuel, the real advantage goes to businesses that use AI responsibly — not those chasing trends. In this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast, host John Corcoran is joined by Emanuel Rose, the CEO of Strategic eMarketing, to discuss how AI is reshaping modern marketing. They explore why personalization at scale is finally within reach, how to avoid the common missteps companies make with AI-driven outreach, and what generative search means for the future of SEO. Emanuel also shares his approach to blending automation with authentic human connection.

Matt Sharrers is the Managing Partner of ETJ Advisory and Founder of ETJ Life, a private, invitation-only community that supports CEOs backed by private equity in navigating leadership transitions and building fulfilling lives. As the former CEO of SBI, Matt helped scale the company and guided it through multiple successful exits, while his current ventures draw on decades of executive leadership and board advisory experience. A former professional hockey player who represented Canada at the national level, Matt is passionate about helping both elite athletes and business leaders achieve their highest potential. His work and recent book, The Second CEO, focus on the unique challenges and opportunities faced by CEOs in high-pressure, private-equity-backed environments. In this episode… The path to reinvention is rarely linear, especially when shifting from elite athletics to corporate leadership and then to entrepreneurship. Many high performers struggle to release old identities while stepping into roles that demand new skills, new mindsets, and deeper purpose. What does it really take to navigate such dramatic transitions, and how can you redefine success without losing yourself? Matt Sharrers, an expert in executive leadership and CEO advisory, shares how he progressed from professional hockey to corporate sales and ultimately to building a respected advisory practice and CEO community. Matt explains how shedding his athletic identity taught him resilience, why stepping in after a charismatic founder required deliberate, disciplined leadership, and how professionalizing a fast-growing organization prepared him for future transitions. Through stories and lessons learned, Matt demonstrates that reinvention thrives on ongoing reflection, courage, and an unwavering commitment to meaningful impact. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Matt Sharrers, Managing Partner of ETJ Advisory and Founder of ETJ Life, about navigating major career reinventions. Matt shares insights on scaling as a second CEO, building communities for high achievers, and designing a life anchored in purpose.

Jennifer McPherson is the President of Chickenango Marketing Solutions. The company specializes in public outreach and marketing for government agencies, and branding, design, and proposal writing for the AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) sector. Jennifer started her company at age 46 after gaining 27 years of experience in the AEC industry, and she is now launching Chickenango University, an educational program aimed at enhancing marketing and business development skills in the AEC space. In this episode… It is easy to take public infrastructure for granted — until a new project appears in your neighborhood and suddenly changes your daily rhythm. People want to understand what is happening, why it matters, and how it affects their lives, yet updates are often buried in technical language or arrive far too late. How can agencies and contractors communicate these massive, complex projects in a way that builds trust rather than frustration? According to Jennifer McPherson, a veteran communicator in the infrastructure world, the answer starts with meeting people where they are — literally. She explains that effective engagement hinges on clear, human conversation rather than engineering jargon. Instead of expecting residents to attend formal meetings, her team shows up in the places where real life happens: ice cream shops, street festivals, school events, even sidewalks along busy corridors. These moments create space for honest feedback, especially when tensions run high. And when people feel heard, Jennifer says, they become more open to the bigger picture and the long-term benefits behind the disruption. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Jennifer McPherson, President of Chickenango Marketing Solutions, to discuss how to build trust and engagement through public infrastructure communication. They explore the shift from traditional public meetings to creative pop-up outreach, how to translate engineering language into something the public can actually understand, and why active listening matters more than polished messaging.

Jason Barnard is the CEO of Kalicube, a digital marketing agency specializing in brand SERP optimization and knowledge panel management to help individuals and companies control how they appear in search and AI-powered results. Often referred to as "The Brand SERP Guy," Jason has helped clients secure and enhance their Google knowledge panels, and Kalicube's methodologies have established the company as a world leader in digital brand intelligence. With a background that includes working with major brands like Disney and Samsung, Jason is passionate about teaching others how to become verified authorities in their niche as search engines and AI evolve. In this episode… It's a strange feeling when you Google your own name and the results don't quite match the person you've built yourself to be. Maybe it points to outdated bios, a random YouTube interview, or — worse yet — someone else entirely. In a world where AI tools rely heavily on what they find online, how do you take control of that digital first impression? According to Jason Barnard, a leading authority on digital brand identity and entity optimization, you start by helping machines understand exactly who you are. He explains that most people assume knowledge panels are reserved for celebrities or people with massive public followings, but he's seen even team members with only a few social profiles earn them. Jason breaks the process down to something almost mechanical: choose your "entity home," structure your facts clearly, create consistency across the web, and let the machines do the rest. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Jason Barnard, CEO of Kalicube, to discuss how to create your Google Knowledge Panel. You'll learn why your "entity home" matters, how to structure facts so AI understands them, and what to update across your online profiles before Google can fully verify you. Jason also shares practical steps for overcoming name collisions and improving how AI presents you online.

John Corcoran is a recovering attorney, an author, and a former White House writer and speechwriter to the Governor of California. Throughout his career, John has worked in Hollywood, the heart of Silicon Valley, and run his boutique law firm in the San Francisco Bay Area, catering to small business owners and entrepreneurs. Since 2012, John has been the host of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast, where he has interviewed hundreds of CEOs, founders, authors, and entrepreneurs, including Peter Diamandis, Adam Grant, Gary Vaynerchuk, and Marie Forleo. John is also the Co-founder of Rise25, a company that connects B2B businesses with their ideal clients, referral partners, and strategic partners. They help their clients generate ROI through their done-for-you podcast service. In this episode… Podcasting continues to evolve, and not always in ways creators expect. One minute, the industry is celebrating growth, and the next, it is wrestling with algorithms, labeling rules, and shifting listener habits. With so many moving parts, how do hosts stay ahead without overthinking every episode? According to John Corcoran, a longtime leader in the podcasting space, the answer starts with understanding how small details can shape the listener experience. When asked about the issues podcasters should pay attention to, he points to something as simple as explicit-language labeling and how easily it can trip up creators. John explains that platforms often flag episodes automatically, sometimes even when no one has actually used a swear word, which means podcasters spend more time worrying about symbols than strategy. He also highlights how tools like accurate speech-to-text technology can transform productivity and consistency, especially when injury or busy seasons complicate content creation. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as Chad Franzen of Rise25 interviews John Corcoran to discuss the biggest issues impacting podcasts today. You will hear why explicit ratings matter more than most hosts realize, how speech-to-text tools can double your productivity, and what separates authentic B2B podcasts from forgettable ones. John also provides insights on using podcasting as a strategic tool to build relationships and grow your business.

Tracey Felicidade Jones is the CEO and Founder of Trace Brand Building, a global branding and marketing agency with operations in South Africa and the United States that helps businesses build memorable, iconic brands. With over 20 years of experience in FMCG and pharma, Tracey's leadership has earned her company an impressive client list, including international brands like Dr. Oetker and Novartis, and results such as helping clients achieve Guinness World Records. Tracey's journey from growing up in South Africa during and after apartheid to relocating and successfully expanding her business in the US gives her a unique, resilient perspective on brand-building and entrepreneurship. In this episode… What does it really take to rebuild your life and business from the ground up? For some, reinvention is a branding exercise. For others, it's survival. How do you start over in a new country, in a new market, and still manage to build something stronger than before? For Tracey Felicidade Jones, the answer begins with grit and perspective. A lifelong entrepreneur who has faced everything from rolling blackouts to armed hijackings in South Africa, Tracey believes that true brand reinvention mirrors personal resilience. Drawing on her background in dietetics, global marketing, and storytelling, she built a business rooted in authenticity — helping companies rediscover their identity through archetypes and emotional connection. After relocating to Colorado, she reimagined her agency to fit the American market, proving that adaptability and heart can turn disruption into growth. Her story is a reminder that great brands, like great people, thrive by staying true to their essence while boldly embracing change. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Tracey Felicidade Jones, CEO and Founder of Trace Brand Building, to discuss how she reinvented her global agency after moving from South Africa to the US. Tracey also shares her vision for the future of creative leadership and the importance of staying authentic in a rapidly changing world.

Jerry Colonna is the CEO and Co-founder of Reboot.io, an executive coaching and leadership development firm dedicated to helping leaders grow through the practice of radical self-inquiry. A former venture capitalist, Jerry is a renowned executive coach and the author of two acclaimed books, Reboot: Leadership and the Art of Growing Up and Reunion: Leadership and the Longing to Belong. Known for his candid storytelling and exploration of personal and generational challenges, Jerry draws on his experiences as an immigrant, entrepreneur, and leader to help others uncover unconscious patterns and build authentic connections. In this episode… What if the beliefs, fears, and resilience that shape our lives today are not just personal traits, but echoes from generations past? Understanding how ancestors faced change, poverty, and struggles with belonging can transform the way we lead and live. Could reconnecting with our family history reveal where — and to whom — we truly belong? Jerry Colonna, a renowned executive coach and author, tackles these profound questions by tracing his family's immigrant journey and exploring how generational experiences inform our sense of self. Using stories of his entrepreneurial grandfather and the hardships his own parents faced, Jerry reveals how both inspiration and trauma cascade through generations, influencing our choices, leadership styles, and even our capacity for resilience. He shares his personal quest to bridge the disconnections in his own lineage — including a revelatory trip to Ireland to reclaim lost roots, demonstrating how true self-understanding only comes when we look beyond ourselves to our collective past. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Jerry Colonna, CEO and Co-founder of Reboot.io, about the legacy of generational trauma, belonging, and leadership. Jerry shares candid reflections on family resilience, the illusion of self-reinvention, and how embracing your roots can strengthen both heart and leadership.

Chris Perkins is the President of Model B, an independent growth marketing agency that leverages a unique blend of internal and external talent to deliver innovative solutions for clients. Under Chris' leadership, Model B has built a network of over 60 vetted agency partners worldwide and achieved significant momentum, helping brands achieve superior marketing results through a flexible, collaborative model. Chris brings decades of experience from top agencies like Ogilvy, Hal Riney, and Publicis, and was the first CMO of Brand USA, where he led a $200 million global tourism campaign delivering a 20:1 ROI. In this episode… The traditional agency model is crumbling under the weight of modern work. With teams scattered across time zones and top talent opting for freelance freedom, agencies are being forced to rethink what it means to deliver value. How do you build world-class campaigns when your best people might never meet in person? According to Chris Perkins, the answer lies in embracing flexibility instead of fighting it. Drawing from decades of experience at global agencies like Ogilvy, Hal Riney, and Publicis, Chris believes the future of marketing depends on blending small, highly focused internal teams with curated networks of external experts. His Partner Collective approach allows agencies to scale up or down instantly while maintaining top-tier quality — something that traditional hierarchies struggle to achieve. By pairing management consulting principles with this cloud-based collaboration model, Chris argues that agencies can finally align talent, technology, and client needs in a way that works for the modern era. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Chris Perkins, President of Model B, to discuss how agencies can evolve for a world of remote work and on-demand talent. They talk about what Chris learned from the heyday of big ad firms, how Model B's Partner Collective bridges global expertise, and why smaller, focused teams often outperform large ones. Chris also shares insights on designing agency systems that thrive in the post-office world.

Cameron Heffernan is the Founder of Beyond Borders Marketing, an agency that helps overseas-based B2B companies and their US subsidiaries expand and succeed in the American market. He has built and led a seven-figure marketing agency, worked across three continents, and guided international clients to double their US sales and achieve substantial EBITDA growth through targeted market strategies. Cameron's global perspective is shaped by living and working in the US, Europe, and Africa, and he is now at the forefront of leveraging AI to create more effective and scalable marketing solutions. In this episode… What happens when the world of marketing collides with rapid advancements in AI technology? With shifts in how companies reach their audiences and a landscape that changes almost weekly, business leaders must adapt or risk being left behind. How are some entrepreneurs transforming these challenges into opportunities for growth? Cameron Heffernan, a global marketing strategist and founder of a seven-figure agency, mastered that challenge by fusing his international experience with AI-powered innovation. Having lived and worked across three continents, Cameron learned how to navigate diverse markets and help overseas B2B brands thrive in the US. He saw early signs that marketing was becoming commoditized and pivoted fast — developing interactive digital tools and AI-driven engagement systems that helped clients double sales and dramatically boost profitability. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Cameron Heffernan, Founder of Beyond Borders Marketing, about leveraging AI and global expertise to revolutionize international marketing. Cameron shares how he built a resilient agency through global experience and technological foresight, why specialization beats generalization in crowded markets, and how AI tools can amplify — rather than replace — human connection.

John Corcoran is a recovering attorney, an author, and a former White House writer and speechwriter to the Governor of California. Throughout his career, John has worked in Hollywood, the heart of Silicon Valley, and ran his boutique law firm in the San Francisco Bay Area, catering to small business owners and entrepreneurs. Since 2012, John has been the host of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast, where he has interviewed hundreds of CEOs, founders, authors, and entrepreneurs, including Peter Diamandis, Adam Grant, Gary Vaynerchuk, and Marie Forleo. John is also the Co-founder of Rise25, a company that connects B2B businesses with their ideal clients, referral partners, and strategic partners. They help their clients generate ROI through their done-for-you podcast service. In this episode… In an era where technology evolves faster than ever, how can business leaders use these innovations to stand out and grow their influence? From AI-driven tools to thought leadership platforms, the modern podcasting landscape is changing rapidly. But what does it take to leverage these tools effectively without losing the human touch that makes great conversations and ideas resonate? According to John Corcoran, a seasoned podcast host and entrepreneur, the key lies in embracing technology as a partner rather than an enemy. He explains that tools like AI and code assistants can enhance creativity and efficiency — helping creators produce better writing, build websites faster, and bring new ideas to life with less friction. John highlights how AI can democratize communication, empowering more people to share their voices clearly and professionally. He also points to thought leaders and podcasters who skillfully align their content with their brand message, turning each episode into both a meaningful dialogue and a strategic relationship-building opportunity. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as Chad Franzen of Rise25 interviews John Corcoran to discuss how technology and thought leadership intersect in podcasting. They explore the smart use of AI in content creation, the rise of no-code tools for entrepreneurs, and lessons from influential podcasters who shaped the industry. John also shares how aligning podcast themes with business goals creates authentic, lasting connections.

Ed O'Keefe is the CEO of EOK Media, a company that helps experts and entrepreneurs sell masterminds, coaching programs, and premium-priced offers through strategic marketing and messaging. Ed has founded multiple seven- and eight-figure businesses — including a supplement brand that generated nearly $30 million in its best year and was among the first to introduce large-scale, condition-specific lead generation to the dental industry. He is also the creator of Offer Wingman, author of Time Collapsing: Time, Speed, Money, Power, and Meaning, and a father of seven. Drawing on his experience growing up as one of thirteen siblings on the South Side of Chicago, Ed channels his background into his passion for entrepreneurship. In this episode… In a world where trust is harder to earn and attention is constantly divided, standing out as a true expert or entrepreneur can feel impossible. With so many competing voices and growing doubt about what's genuine, how can you build real authority that drives results? Is there a smarter way to skip the slow grind and earn trust fast in the digital age? Ed O'Keefe, a serial entrepreneur and high performance strategist, figured it out by combining personal growth, strategic modeling, and direct response marketing to accelerate business success — for himself and clients. Growing up in a big, entrepreneurial family, Ed learned early how to seek mentors, license proven systems, and model top performers to leap ahead — even in industries he knew little about. He breaks down his Leapfrog Theory for getting ahead of the market, and how using interviews and authentic digital content can create entire ecosystems of trust. Ed explains why today's buyers need multiple touchpoints before they act, and why video-based personal branding is now essential for standing out in an AI-saturated world. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Ed O'Keefe, CEO of EOK Media, about building trust and authority in an AI-driven world. Ed shares how he helps experts and entrepreneurs grow faster through personal branding, modeling success, and using content strategically.

Dr. Craig Kaplan is the Founder and CEO of iQ Company, a leading consulting firm specializing in the ethical and safe development of advanced AI and Superintelligent systems. With over 20 years at the helm, Dr. Kaplan has published a book, numerous patents, and ten whitepapers on Safe Superintelligence. His former company, PredictWallStreet, earned top recognition for outperforming major financial institutions like NASDAQ and TD Ameritrade. In this episode… As artificial intelligence continues to evolve at lightning speed, the world is grappling with a pivotal question: can we build systems powerful enough to change the world without losing control of them? What would it take to design smarter, safer, and more transparent AI that humanity can truly trust? According to Dr. Craig Kaplan, a pioneering figure in AI and collective intelligence systems, the key lies in prevention and design. He emphasizes that most of today's AI models function as "black boxes," where even their creators can't fully explain how decisions are made — a recipe for unpredictable behavior. Dr. Kaplan argues that the industry must focus on embedding safety at the design phase, not patching it afterward. Drawing from decades in AI and software quality, he highlights how systems designed with human oversight, transparency, and collective intelligence can be both safer and more profitable, ensuring accountability while maintaining innovation's momentum. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Dr. Craig Kaplan, Founder and CEO of iQ Company, about designing safer and more transparent AI systems. They explore the flaws in current AI training, the promise of collective intelligence, and the urgent need for ethical frameworks. Dr. Kaplan also shares why smarter design (not slower development) is the path to both safety and progress.

Shannon Swift is the CEO and Founder of Swift HR Solutions, a consulting firm that provides strategic HR and talent solutions to early-stage and growth-stage companies with a focus on startup and emerging sectors. For over 20 years, Swift HR Solutions has partnered with hundreds of clients, including Zillow, thriving as a primarily referral-based business with minimal marketing. Passionate about building strong foundations for startups, Shannon excels in fast-paced environments and brings a unique perspective shaped by her early years growing up in national parks. In this episode… Some businesses thrive without spending a dime on advertising or marketing. They attract every client through word of mouth, with reputation alone driving steady growth and opportunity. What does it take to build a self-sustaining referral engine that delivers year after year? Shannon Swift shares the secrets behind her firm's 100% referral-based business model, tackling the challenges of sustainable growth without conventional marketing. Drawing on her early HR experiences with startups and high-growth companies, Shannon reveals how she deliberately cultivated authentic relationships, focused on service, and consistently prioritized helping others, whether through volunteering, board leadership, or simply being generous with advice. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Shannon Swift, Founder and CEO of Swift HR Solutions, about building a thriving, 100% referral-based business in the HR consulting space. Shannon shares how her early years in national parks inspired a spirit of service, what it takes to earn lasting trust in business relationships, and how technology and remote work have reshaped her industry.

Adam Pontrelli is a Professional EOS Implementer at Apex Coaching, where he helps entrepreneurial leadership teams use the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) to gain clarity, accountability, and growth in their businesses. A retired serial entrepreneur and Founder of AP World Marketing, Adam built a company that developed strategic partnerships with major retailers such as Costco, Walmart, Target, and Amazon. Under his leadership, the firm achieved sustained double- and triple-digit growth, ultimately leading to a successful nine-figure client exit. In this episode… For many business owners, the challenge isn’t just building success — it’s sustaining it without burning out. How do you rebuild after major setbacks and design a business that fuels both growth and fulfillment? According to Adam Pontrelli, a retired serial entrepreneur turned business coach, the key lies in embracing structure and self-awareness. He explains that true freedom as an entrepreneur doesn’t come from constant hustle but from clarity — understanding your strengths, aligning with the right people, and creating systems that let you step back while your business runs smoothly. Drawing from his own experience of being “kicked out of the nest” twice, Adam highlights how perseverance, peer support, and frameworks like EOS can transform chaos into confidence. His story shows that sustainable success often begins when leaders learn to let go. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Adam Pontrelli, Professional EOS Implementer at Apex Coaching, to discuss overcoming entrepreneurial setbacks and building sustainable success. They explore lessons from family business failures, finding purpose through adversity, and the game-changing power of EOS. Adam also shares how peer communities like EO shaped his leadership journey.

Yuko Tsuchida is the Founder of Hito, LLC, a Newport Beach–based tax consulting firm specializing in strategic tax planning, credits, and incentives for multinational corporations. With over 15 years of experience, Yuko has helped clients, including Fortune 500 companies, save millions of dollars by navigating complex tax credits and exemptions. She brings a global perspective to her work, having studied and worked in the US, Spain, and South Africa. Yuko is also an advocate for solo motherhood by choice, openly sharing her personal journey to inspire and support others considering a similar path. In this episode… Building a business in a foreign country is never easy — but what if you also choose to become a solo parent along the way? Many professionals dream of creating a fulfilling life on their own terms, yet cultural expectations, financial pressures, and fear of judgment can make those dreams feel out of reach. How do you pursue both entrepreneurship and motherhood when neither path comes with a clear roadmap? Yuko Tsuchida, a solo mom and entrepreneur, demonstrates how resilience and self-trust can rewrite even the toughest stories. After immigrating to the US, she built a niche tax consulting firm helping small and midsize companies claim valuable credits and incentives. But her biggest leap came outside business — choosing to become a mother by choice. Yuko candidly shares how she navigated adoption as a non-citizen, found unexpected support from her traditional Japanese family, and learned to balance leadership with parenting. Her journey reveals that success isn’t about following convention but staying true to your values. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Yuko Tsuchida, Founder of Hito LLC, about forging her own path as an entrepreneur and solo mom by choice. Yuko talks about building a business across cultures, making bold life decisions with confidence, and finding community in unexpected places. She also shares lessons on resilience, redefining success, and embracing the freedom that comes from authenticity.