Today, we discuss the importance of understanding one's 'why' in business and life. For sustainable success, individuals must connect their passions with their work, particularly in fields like web design and e-commerce. We also talk about the significance of authenticity, the emotional connection with clients, and practical techniques like the 'Five Whys' to uncover deeper motivations. Follow the Show! https://www.instagram.com/thestratshow Takeaways -You have to find your why for sustainable success. -Clients want to know how you can help them achieve their dreams. -Authenticity in your passion resonates with clients. -E-commerce success relies on genuine passion for products. -Understanding the client's goals is crucial for effective marketing. -The Five Whys technique helps uncover deeper motivations. -Quality of life is a significant factor in career choices. -You can turn adjacent interests into lucrative careers. -It's important to connect emotionally with clients. -Finding your why can simplify decision-making in life. Chapters 00:00 Finding Your Why in Business 03:02 The Importance of Passion and Authenticity 05:52 E-commerce and the Role of Passion 09:08 The Five Whys Technique 11:56 Quality of Life and Remote Work

Sean takes us through his first-time experience visiting New York City, where the city’s iconic landmarks and chaotic subway system offer both nostalgia and challenges. He breaks down the highs and lows of navigating NYC, shares tips on avoiding tourist traps, and highlights some must-hit food spots. He also talks safety, bucket list planning, and why staying outside Manhattan might be the travel hack you didn’t know you needed. Follow the Show! https://www.instagram.com/thestratshow Takeaways -Navigating New York requires planning due to its size and complexity. -Food options in New York can vary greatly in quality and price. -Safety in New York is generally good, with some exceptions in the subway. -Bucket list experiences should be carefully considered before visiting. -Planning ahead for popular attractions is crucial to avoid disappointment. -Staying outside of Manhattan can be a strategic choice for travelers. -The experience of New York is enhanced by positive energy and attitude. -Future travel plans include discussions about other trips and experiences. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:19 Sean's First Experience in New York City 05:36 Navigating New York: Transportation and Planning 09:53 Experiencing the City: Food and Culture 13:29 Observations of Safety and Crime in NYC 16:54 Bucket List Experiences and Missed Opportunities 22:22 Reflections on the Trip and Future Plans

Lee shares his experience at a Vipassana silent meditation retreat, where tech is off-limits, conversations are nonexistent, and the only thing you’re left with is yourself. We get into fasting, the unexpected community dynamics, and how 10 days of silence can lead to serious personal growth. This episode is all about what happens when you disconnect to reconnect—with yourself and with the world around you. Follow the Show! https://www.instagram.com/thestratshow Takeaways -Vipassana is a form of meditation focused on awareness and body scanning. -The retreat experience includes a strict schedule and noble silence. -Participants often struggle with the absence of technology and social interaction. -Food during the retreat is vegetarian and low in protein, which can be challenging. -Community dynamics can lead to hygiene issues and illness among participants. -The retreat encourages deep self-reflection and clarity of thought. -Disconnecting from technology can reveal compulsive behaviors. -Personal breakthroughs can occur during extended periods of silence and meditation. -The experience highlights the importance of real human connection. -Retreats can be a valuable way to reset and gain perspective on life.

In today's episode, we get into some technical mishaps, the pros and cons of electric cars, and whether they're really saving the planet. Then, we talk about personal growth at a breathwork retreat in Denver, the mental traps of perfectionism, and why waiting for things to be perfect is a waste of time. Follow the Show! https://www.instagram.com/thestratshow Takeaways -Technical difficulties can feel trivial compared to real problems. -Electric cars present both convenience and inconvenience. -The environmental impact of electric cars is complex and often overlooked. -Denver has experienced significant growth, impacting its culture and lifestyle. -Immersive retreats can lead to profound personal growth and transformation. -Breath work can facilitate emotional release and healing. -Different breathing techniques can yield varied emotional and physical responses. -Perfectionism can hinder creativity and progress in business. -Taking action is more important than waiting for perfection. -Building skills and confidence can start with the resources you already have. Chapters 00:00 Intro 02:31 Electric Cars: Convenience vs. Inconvenience 05:41 The Reality of Electric Cars and Environmental Impact 08:18 Experiencing Denver: Growth and Personal Reflections 11:00 Retreat Experience: Immersion and Personal Growth 13:54 Breath Work: A Deep Dive into Emotional Release 16:52 The Power of Breath Work: Personal Experiences 19:41 Perfectionism in Creativity and Business 22:16 The Importance of Taking Action Over Perfection 25:12 Building Skills and Confidence in Creative Pursuits #stratshow

We cover Sean’s combo cleanse and an Uber fiasco in Medellín, then get into why taking time for yourself and detoxing from bad habits matters. We finish up with a no-BS talk about why you need those occasional ‘blowout’ trips to remind yourself why you ditched certain habits. Follow the Show! https://www.instagram.com/thestratshow Takeaways -Traveling can lead to unique experiences and opportunities for personal growth. -Holistic medicine and alternative treatments can offer benefits for physical and mental well-being. -Double-checking details and maintaining clear communication are important when traveling in unfamiliar places. -Having a phone for communication is crucial, especially when traveling with children. Travel experiences can vary greatly depending on the location and personal preferences. -Taking time for oneself and having personal space is important for mental and emotional well-being. -Detoxing from toxic habits and thoughts is necessary for personal growth and development. -Occasional 'blowout' trips can serve as a reminder of the reasons for leaving certain habits behind. Chapters 00:00 Adventures in Travel and Personal Growth 02:47 Exploring Holistic Medicine and Alternative Treatments 08:50 The Importance of Clear Communication While Traveling 17:46 Lessons Learned from a Travel Mishap 23:06 Contrasting Travel Experiences 26:14 The Need for Detoxing from Toxic Habits 32:32 The Benefits of 'Blowout' Trips

In this episode, we get into Sean’s extended stay in Medellín, Colombia—covering everything from safety and cost of living to the real scene behind its nightlife. Sean breaks down the perks of affordable housing, reliable internet, and why the city’s infrastructure blows away the stereotypes. We get into the expat scene, coworking spaces like Selina, and how the Conscious Co-Working community is making waves. Plus, the unfiltered truth about its nightlife and the sex work industry. Follow the Show! https://www.instagram.com/thestratshow Takeaways -Medellin, Colombia is a safe and clean city with well-maintained infrastructure. -The expat community in Medellin is spread out, but efforts are being made to create a centralized community through events and networking. -The Conscious Co-Working community aims to provide a space for collaboration, networking, and personal growth. -Transportation options in Medellin include Uber, taxis, and public transport, and they are affordable and easily accessible. -Living in Medellin is relatively inexpensive, with low costs for transportation, dining, and accommodation. Medellin, Colombia offers affordable housing and a comfortable climate -The city has modern infrastructure and a streamlined payment system -The Selina co-working space provides a convenient and affordable workspace -The internet is reliable and phone plans are cheap -There is a lack of community for digital nomads -Colombians are not very verbal -There is a surplus of apartments due to restrictions on buying property by foreigners -The area of Pueblado has a vibrant nightlife scene and a prominent sex work industry Chapters 00:00 Setting up in Medellin 02:28 Safety, Cleanliness, and Infrastructure 07:04 Transportation in Medellin 11:33 Conscious Co-Working Community 17:28 The Expat Community in Medellin 22:05 Affordable Living in Medellin 23:48 Surplus of Apartments and Vibrant Nightlife in Pueblado 29:28 Restrictions on Residency and Immigration 32:17 Customs and Immigration Process 34:47 Using Wise Card and Currency Exchange 37:34 Sex Work Industry in Medellin 41:16 Language Differences and Communication 44:40 Internet and Phone Services

Today, we discuss everything from battling food poisoning to finding purpose in our work. We share our personal takes on balancing work and life, avoiding burnout, and why staying mentally and physically in check matters. We hit on how remote work can be both a blessing and a curse, depending on how you play it, and how money alone won’t buy happiness. We also get real about being fiscally smart, the risks of overworking, traveling safely, and how drugs and alcohol affect us and society. Follow the Show! https://www.instagram.com/thestratshow Takeaways -Food poisoning can happen at any time, even if you've been in a place for a long time. -Having a purpose and finding fulfillment in work is important for overall well-being. -Work-life balance is crucial to avoid burnout and maintain mental and physical health. -Remote work offers flexibility and the opportunity to create a better quality of life. -Money is not the sole determinant of happiness, and it's important to prioritize experiences and relationships over material possessions. Being fiscally responsible is important for managing money and avoiding financial stress. -Having a flexible work schedule allows for a better work-life balance and the ability to take breaks and relax throughout the day. -Overworking and not taking time off can lead to burnout and unhealthy behaviors. -Traveling to different countries can be safe as long as precautions are taken and common sense is used. -Drugs and alcohol can have detrimental effects on individuals and society, and better support and treatment options are needed. Chapters 00:00 Food Poisoning 01:36 Finding Purpose and Fulfillment in Work 05:23 The Benefits of Remote Work 08:55 Money and Quality of Life 24:57 Work-Life Balance with a Flexible Schedule 25:27 The Dangers of Overworking and Burning Out 29:02 The Benefits of a Job with Time Off 30:07 Travel Safety and Enjoying Different Countries 31:09 Exploring Colombia and Its Climate 32:06 Comparing Safety in Different Countries 33:00 Homelessness and Poverty in Different Countries 37:08 The Impact of Drugs and Alcohol on Individuals and Society

In this episode, brand strategist Cory Simon explains why standing out in a crowded market matters more than ever and how a solid brand strategy is key to making it happen. We also get into managing client expectations, setting boundaries, and why profit-sharing agreements with clients can be a risky bet. Plus, a few personal stories from our travels in Mexico, including some embarrassing public mishaps. Follow the Show! https://www.instagram.com/thestratshow Connect with Cory Simon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cory-simon/ Takeaways -Disabling notifications can improve productivity and focus -Standing out in a crowded market is crucial for success -A branding specialist can help businesses connect with their audience -Client fit is important and setting clear expectations is key -Profit sharing can be a valuable incentive for employees Profit sharing agreements with clients can be risky and require trust and transparency -Traveling in Mexico offers unique experiences, including delicious food and unpredictable weather -Sometimes embarrassing and humorous situations can arise, such as shitting oneself in public Chapters 00:00 Introduction and the Impact of Notifications on Productivity 06:04 The Importance of Standing Out in a Crowded Market 14:04 The Role of a Branding Specialist 27:43 The Value of Profit Sharing 28:34 The Risks of Profit Sharing 34:18 Exploring Mexico 47:54 Embarrassing Stories

We start with Sean’s New York recap and our upcoming travel plans. Then, we’re joined by Kristie Sullivan from Executive Remote Worker. Her company sets up business professionals with done-for-you workations, so you don’t have to sacrifice paychecks or burn through your PTO. We get into the rise of workations, the perks, and the bullshit fears that hold people back. The concept of an executive remote worker (ERW) is to provide guidance and support for remote workers who want to travel and work in new locations. Follow Kristie: https://www.instagram.com/kristieds Visit the ERW website for details on upcoming events: https://executiveremoteworker.com/ Follow the Show! https://www.instagram.com/thestratshow Takeaways -Sean recently visited New York and shares his experience of exploring the city. -Executive Remote Worker specializes in workations and coordinated travel events for remote workers. -Workations allow people to travel, work, and immerse themselves in local culture. -Many people are starting to embrace the idea of remote work and workations, but some are held back by fear and uncertainty. -Executive Remote Worker takes care of all the logistics and provides a safe and organized experience for remote workers. -Workations offer a unique opportunity to combine work and travel, allowing people to see the world while still being productive. The fear of losing their job is a major concern for remote workers when it comes to traveling. -Many remote workers in the US are hesitant to travel outside the country due to the distance and unknowns. -The concept of an executive remote worker (ERW) provides guidance and support for remote workers who want to travel and work in new locations. -Common worries for remote workers include Wi-Fi availability and the ability to stay focused in beautiful locations. -Planning and time management are key to maintaining work-life balance while on a workation. Chapters 00:00 Exploring New York and Detroit 01:14 The Rise of Workations 01:36 Planning and Coordinating Workations 02:36 The Benefits and Challenges of Remote Work and Travel 20:09 Overcoming the Fear of Losing a Job 21:00 The Importance of a Support System 21:45 Navigating Misconceptions and Obstacles 22:44 Workations: Balancing Work and Leisure 27:36 Corporate Workations: Team-Building Experiences

Today is all about the tough reality of freelancing—dealing with nightmare clients. We break down the importance of setting boundaries, demanding respect, and why your contract counts. Showcasing our own failures, we discuss why balancing client demands with your own sanity is priority 1. If a client’s pushing too far, cut ties and move on—no refunds, no second chances. Follow the Show! https://www.instagram.com/thestratshow (More links to come…) Chapters 00:00 Awkward Medical Appointments and Personal Experiences 05:02 Navigating Difficult Clients in Freelance Business 24:57 The Power of Setting Boundaries 32:28 Letting Go: Opening Doors to Better Clients 39:35 The Value of Time Management 43:42 TSS - Youtube Outro 2.mp4 Takeaways: Dealing with difficult clients is a common experience in the freelance world. Clients who try to negotiate a lower price upfront often end up being the most difficult to work with. Setting boundaries and clearly defining deliverables in a contract can help manage client expectations. Respecting clients and maintaining professionalism, even in challenging situations, is crucial. It's important to strike a balance between accommodating clients and protecting oneself from abusive or unreasonable behavior. Set clear boundaries and expectations with clients, and include them in the contract. Communicate any additional costs for work outside the scope of the contract. Establish communication schedules and response times to manage client expectations. Prioritize self-care and don't let difficult clients negatively impact your mindset and productivity. Know when to walk away from a difficult client and focus on attracting better clients. Refunds may not be feasible in service-based industries where time and effort have already been invested.