Are you using AI in a way that actually grows your business?

Ethan King joins Scott Joseph to unpack how AI, automation, and systems thinking can scale your business without adding stress. From his early days starting a college project to building multiple eight-figure brands, Ethan shares actionable frameworks and mindset shifts that empower smart, sustainable growth.

Ethan King is an award-winning entrepreneur, TEDx speaker, and bestselling author, who makes scaling look simple—but only because he’s mastered the systems that make success repeatable.

Join Scott and Ethan as they explore:

(4:17) The Power of Starting Small

* Ethan shares how a college project turned into a real business.

* Why some business owners ignore customer requests.

* Ethan’s Double Your Business in 90 Days book.

(13:11) Turning AI Into Your Marketing Team

* Email automation.

* Using AI to translate customer reviews into marketing language.

* Creating custom GPTs and brand voice training for better output.

(39:03) Making AI Your Publicist

* Turning media queries into brand exposure using AI.

* Why authenticity wins: teach AI to think like you, not replace you.

(54:08) The EAT method

* The EAT method: Eliminate, Automate, Train.

Thanks to Ethan King for being on Business, Bourbon & Cigars.

Learn more about Ethan: https://ethanking.com/

Follow Ethan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethanking.co/

Connect with Ethan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kingethan/

BUSINESS, BOURBON & CIGARS

Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes.

* Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3SN2fHn

* Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49EwtTo

* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MePlusUltraNetwork/

Business, Bourbon & Cigars is the preeminent resource for ambitious leaders who want a backstage pass to the top. Each episode, we sit down with ultra-successful executives and industry leaders who share their insider strategies for growth and success. And of course, we may even sip on some of the finest bourbon and light up our favorite cigars while we chat.

Each week, we bring you in-depth interviews with high-level executives and industry leaders who have a proven track record and in-depth understanding of what it takes to grow a business. They’ll share their no-nonsense approach, the challenges they faced on their journey to the top, and the strategies that helped them overcome obstacles and forge their own path to ultra-success.

ME PLUS ULTRA

Transform your business and redefine your world with Me Plus Ultra virtual masterminds and leadership retreats: https://MePlusUltra.com

Me Plus Ultra is a place where visionary entrepreneurs come together, not just to network, but to forge lasting connections, inspire one another, and grow their businesses with confidence and purpose. With exclusive access to industry-leading knowledge, personalized growth strategies, and high-impact events, we empower you to transcend traditional business barriers. To elevate your business, join our Me Plus Ultra virtual masterminds and leadership retreats to surround yourself with peers who share your drive and passion.

* Me Plus Ultra Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/me_plus_ultra/

* Me Plus Ultra Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MePlusUltra/

* Me Plus Ultra Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1011061052968028/

* Me Plus Ultra X/Twitter: https://x.com/Me_Plus_Ultra/

SCOTT JOSEPH

* Scott Joseph LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ScottJoseph

* Scott Joseph X/Twitter: https://x.com/ScottTJoseph1

*...

What’s the best way to outsell a direct competitor without putting them down?

In this episode, Scott Joseph shares a powerful two-question technique for positioning yourself above direct competitors—without ever going negative. He explains how these questions shift the sales conversation by revealing what matters most to your prospects and where your competitors fall short.

Join Scott as he explores:

(2:56) The Story Behind the Two-Question Technique

* The real power comes from positioning—not objection handling.

* Sales success comes from asking the right questions, not being pushy.

(6:55) The First Question

* Ask: “What are the one or two things that have kept you [i.e. the prospect] loyal to them [i.e. your competitor]?"

(7:40) The Second Question

* Ask: “If there were one or two things they [i.e. your competitor] could improve on, what would they be?”

* Let the prospect feel the pain of staying with their current provider.

(10:28) Test Closing

* Use test closes to reinforce relevance throughout the pitch.

The first three people who go to https://MePlusUltra.com/hotseat will get free access to one of our Me Plus Ultra virtual mastermind hot seats.

BUSINESS, BOURBON & CIGARS

Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes.

* Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3SN2fHn

* Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49EwtTo

* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MePlusUltraNetwork/

Business, Bourbon & Cigars is the preeminent resource for ambitious leaders who want a backstage pass to the top. Each episode, we sit down with ultra-successful executives and industry leaders who share their insider strategies for growth and success. And of course, we may even sip on some of the finest bourbon and light up our favorite cigars while we chat.

Each week, we bring you in-depth interviews with high-level executives and industry leaders who have a proven track record and in-depth understanding of what it takes to grow a business. They’ll share their no-nonsense approach, the challenges they faced on their journey to the top, and the strategies that helped them overcome obstacles and forge their own path to ultra-success.

ME PLUS ULTRA

Transform your business and redefine your world with Me Plus Ultra virtual masterminds and leadership retreats: https://MePlusUltra.com

Me Plus Ultra is a place where visionary entrepreneurs come together, not just to network, but to forge lasting connections, inspire one another, and grow their businesses with confidence and purpose. With exclusive access to industry-leading knowledge, personalized growth strategies, and high-impact events, we empower you to transcend traditional business barriers. To elevate your business, join our Me Plus Ultra virtual masterminds and leadership retreats to surround yourself with peers who share your drive and passion.

* Me Plus Ultra Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/me_plus_ultra/

* Me Plus Ultra Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MePlusUltra/

* Me Plus Ultra Facebook group:...

What leadership framework can help you stay calm under intense pressure?

In this powerful episode, Scott Joseph sits down with Navy SEAL-turned-leadership-coach Errol Doebler to unpack the SMACC decision-making framework. Together, they explore how emotional awareness and structured planning can elevate leadership, whether you're in combat or in the boardroom. From stories of FBI standoffs to business transformations, this conversation delivers actionable insights for leaders at every level.

Join Scott and Errol as they explore:

19:19 – Emotional Awareness

Why some leaders freeze and how emotional validation is the first step to progress.

Real-world examples of indecision and conflict avoidance.

30:30 – SVI Technologies and SMACC

Practical applications of the SMACC model in business settings, including pitches, team meetings, and strategy planning.

47:47 – Culture, Delegation, and Team Autonomy

How to shift your company culture from passivity to initiative.

1:04:00 – Proactivity and Leadership Evolution

A client example of stopping reactive firefighting by improving front-end planning.

Visit https://www.meplusultra.com/bbc50 to get 50% off your ticket to the Business, Bourbon & Cigars Leadership Retreat. (Only for the first five people to sign up.)

Thanks to Errol Doebler for being on Business, Bourbon & Cigars!

Connect with Errol on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/errol-doebler/

Learn more about Errol and Ice Cold Leader: https://icecoldleader.com/

Get Errol’s book: https://icecoldleaderbook.com/

The acronym SMACCC (which is discussed in this episode) stands for the six components of a structured decision-making and planning process derived from Errol’s time as a Navy SEAL and adapted for business leadership. SMACCC stands for:

S — Situation.

M — Mission.

A — Actions.

C — Command.

C — Communication.

C — Contingencies.

BUSINESS, BOURBON & CIGARS

Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes.

* Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3SN2fHn

* Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49EwtTo

* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MePlusUltraNetwork/

Business, Bourbon & Cigars is the preeminent resource for ambitious leaders who want a backstage pass to the top. Each episode, we sit down with ultra-successful executives and industry leaders who share their insider strategies for growth and success. And of course, we may even sip on some of the finest bourbon and light up our favorite cigars while we chat.

Each week, we bring you in-depth interviews with high-level executives and industry leaders who have a proven track record and in-depth understanding of what it takes to grow a business. They’ll share their no-nonsense approach, the challenges they faced on their journey to the top, and the strategies that helped them overcome obstacles and forge their own path to ultra-success.

ME PLUS ULTRA

Transform your business and redefine your world with Me Plus Ultra-virtual masterminds and...

Growth is not about doing more. It's about becoming more. But what if you’re chasing the wrong version of growth?

This episode dives deep into the powerful inner shift that distinguishes top-tier entrepreneurs from the rest. Scott Joseph shares a personal transformation story that redefined how he led his business and life, moving from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset.

Join Scott as he explores:

(3:53) The Illusion of Success

* Scott describes feeling unfulfilled despite outward business success.

* He identifies his past reliance on old business models and fixed mindset.

(7:36) Breaking Through the Old Self

* Scott’s emotional and mindset transformation through coaching.

* Letting go of attachment to traditional sales models opens new possibilities.

(11:46) The Power of Pivots

* Mindset—not market strategy—is the real growth catalyst.

(15:12) The Growth Mindset Playbook

* Four strategies to cultivate a growth mindset: embracing challenges, reframing failure, continuous learning, and surrounding yourself with the right people.

BUSINESS, BOURBON & CIGARS

Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes.

* Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3SN2fHn

* Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49EwtTo

* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MePlusUltraNetwork/

Business, Bourbon & Cigars is the preeminent resource for ambitious leaders who want a backstage pass to the top. Each episode, we sit down with ultra-successful executives and industry leaders who share their insider strategies for growth and success. And of course, we may even sip on some of the finest bourbon and light up our favorite cigars while we chat.

Each week, we bring you in-depth interviews with high-level executives and industry leaders who have a proven track record and in-depth understanding of what it takes to grow a business. They’ll share their no-nonsense approach, the challenges they faced on their journey to the top, and the strategies that helped them overcome obstacles and forge their own path to ultra-success.

ME PLUS ULTRA

Transform your business and redefine your world with Me Plus Ultra virtual masterminds and leadership retreats: https://MePlusUltra.com

Me Plus Ultra is a place where visionary entrepreneurs come together, not just to network, but to forge lasting connections, inspire one another, and grow their businesses with confidence and purpose. With exclusive access to industry-leading knowledge, personalized growth strategies, and high-impact events, we empower you to transcend traditional business barriers. To elevate your business, join our Me Plus Ultra virtual masterminds and leadership retreats to surround yourself with peers who share your drive and passion.

* Me Plus Ultra Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/me_plus_ultra/

* Me Plus Ultra Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MePlusUltra/

* Me Plus Ultra Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1011061052968028/

* Me Plus Ultra X/Twitter:

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 through clarifying questions and honest reflection, he uncovered that fear—not complexity—was holding him back.

Join Scott Joseph in this episode as he explores:

(0:45) Starting from Scratch

* Scott reflects on the pressure of launching a new business.

* Overwhelmed, Scott realized he needed help beyond his experience.

(4:25) Zeroing in on the Core Problem

* His mastermind asked Scott: What’s the one thing that, if solved, would make everything easier?

* The fear of making the wrong decision, not the work itself, was what paralyzed him.

(10:10) Vision, Fear, and Focus

* Clarifying questions helped Scott understand his emotional blocks and fears.

(14:40) Group Accountability

* The group followed up after the session to hold Scott accountable for implementation.

(18:20) Shared Learning, Shared Breakthroughs

* The hot seat experience benefits every member of the group, not just the person in the spotlight.

* Scott encourages listeners to focus on one issue, embrace questions, and lean into group accountability.

BUSINESS, BOURBON & CIGARS

Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes.

* Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3SN2fHn

* Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49EwtTo

* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MePlusUltraNetwork/

Business, Bourbon & Cigars is the preeminent resource for ambitious leaders who want a backstage pass to the top. Each episode, we sit down with ultra-successful executives and industry leaders who share their insider strategies for growth and success. And of course, we may even sip on some of the finest bourbon and light up our favorite cigars while we chat.

Each week, we bring you in-depth interviews with high-level executives and industry leaders who have a proven track record and in-depth understanding of what it takes to grow a business. They’ll share their no-nonsense approach, the challenges they faced on their journey to the top, and the strategies that helped them overcome obstacles and forge their own path to ultra-success.

ME PLUS ULTRA

Transform your business and redefine your world with Me Plus Ultra virtual masterminds and leadership retreats: https://MePlusUltra.com

Me Plus Ultra is a place where visionary entrepreneurs come together, not just to network, but to forge lasting connections, inspire one another, and grow their businesses with confidence and purpose. With exclusive access to industry-leading knowledge, personalized growth strategies, and high-impact events, we empower you to transcend traditional business barriers. To elevate your business, join our Me Plus Ultra virtual masterminds and leadership retreats to surround yourself with peers who share your drive and passion.

* Me Plus Ultra Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/me_plus_ultra/

* Me...

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 Message That Changed Everything

* How a seemingly random LinkedIn message sparked a transformational journey.

(06:07) A New Vision for Business

* When Scott aligned his personal mission with business goals, everything began to shift.

* The creation of Me Plus Ultra.

(07:55) Breaking the Cycle of Burnout

* How entrepreneurs can feel unfulfilled despite outward success.

* Scott’s free “Limitless Growth” ebook is a roadmap for breaking through stagnation: https://meplusultra.com/ebooks/limitless-growth-2/

(09:37) Aligning Personal & Professional Goals

* When aligned, both areas of life fuel each other.

* The SMART goals framework for setting effective, aligned goals.

(13:10) Leading with Mission

* A personal mission grounded in faith and service now drives every business decision Scott makes.

Be sure to download Scott’s Free “Limitless Growth” ebook mentioned in this episode: https://meplusultra.com/ebooks/limitless-growth-2/

BUSINESS, BOURBON & CIGARS

Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes.

* Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3SN2fHn

* Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49EwtTo

* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MePlusUltraNetwork/

* Business, Bourbon & Cigars is the preeminent resource for ambitious leaders who want a backstage pass to the top. Each episode, we sit down with ultra-successful executives and industry leaders who share their insider strategies for growth and success. And of course, we may even sip on some of the finest bourbon and light up our favorite cigars while we chat.

* Each week, we bring you in-depth interviews with high-level executives and industry leaders who have a proven track record and in-depth understanding of what it takes to grow a business. They’ll share their no-nonsense approach, the challenges they faced on their journey to the top, and the strategies that helped them overcome obstacles and forge their own path to ultra-success.

ME PLUS ULTRA

Transform your business and redefine your world with Me Plus Ultra virtual masterminds and leadership retreats: https://MePlusUltra.com

Me Plus Ultra is a place where visionary entrepreneurs come together, not just to network, but to forge lasting connections, inspire one another, and grow their businesses with confidence and purpose. With exclusive access to industry-leading knowledge, personalized growth strategies, and high-impact events, we empower you to transcend traditional business barriers. To elevate your business, join our Me Plus Ultra virtual masterminds and leadership retreats to surround yourself with peers who share your drive and passion.

* Me Plus Ultra...

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-on experience in fixing inefficiencies, optimizing cash flow, and setting businesses up for success.

Join Scott and Michael as they explore:

(03:45) Scaling vs. Growing

* Mike’s background in business scaling.

* Business owners often confuse hiring more people with scaling effectively.

(19:45) Fractional COOs & CFOs

* How a fractional executive can optimize operations without adding full-time costs.

(30:45) Improving Cash Flow

* Understanding business data and trends to make smarter decisions.

(40:45) Navigating Organizational Change

* Getting employee buy-in when implementing operational changes.

* Why embracing outside expertise can accelerate business growth.

Thanks to Michael Straza for being on Business, Bourbon & Cigars.

Connect with Michael on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstraza/

Learn more about Straza Consulting: https://www.consultstraza.com/

Download Scott’s Free “Limitless Growth” ebook mentioned in this episode: https://meplusultra.com/ebooks/limitless-growth-2/

BUSINESS, BOURBON & CIGARS

Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes.

* Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3SN2fHn

* Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49EwtTo

* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MePlusUltraNetwork/

Business, Bourbon & Cigars is the preeminent resource for ambitious leaders who want a backstage pass to the top. Each episode, we sit down with ultra-successful executives and industry leaders who share their insider strategies for growth and success. And of course, we may even sip on some of the finest bourbon and light up our favorite cigars while we chat.

Each week, we bring you in-depth interviews with high-level executives and industry leaders who have a proven track record and in-depth understanding of what it takes to grow a business. They’ll share their no-nonsense approach, the challenges they faced on their journey to the top, and the strategies that helped them overcome obstacles and forge their own path to ultra-success.

ME PLUS ULTRA

Transform your business and redefine your world with Me Plus Ultra virtual masterminds and leadership retreats: https://MePlusUltra.com

Me Plus Ultra is a place where visionary entrepreneurs come together, not just to network, but to forge lasting connections, inspire one another, and grow their businesses with confidence and purpose. With exclusive access to industry-leading knowledge, personalized growth strategies, and high-impact events, we empower you to transcend traditional business

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 he explores:

* The critical importance of self-awareness in leadership and business growth.

* Scott's personal story of resisting, then embracing, a pivotal business model shift.

* How reducing the sales team from 30 to 3 employees led to increased ROI and client satisfaction.

* Practical self-assessment tools like Myers–Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), Big Five Personality Traits, and CliftonStrengths.

* Why bold, data-driven decisions outperform fear-based choices.

* How joining a mastermind group like Me Plus Ultra can accelerate business breakthroughs.

Chapters:

(02:00) Self-Awareness in Leadership

(05:00) Scott and J&L Marketing

(07:45) Resisting Change

(13:30) Tools for Self-Assessment

(16:30) A Self-Awareness Action Plan

(19:45) Me Plus Ultra Masterminds

Resources discussed in this episode:

* Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI): https://www.myersbriggs.org/

* Big Five Personality Traits: https://bigfive-test.com/

* CliftonStrengths (formerly StrengthsFinder) by Gallup: https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/252137/home.aspx

BUSINESS, BOURBON & CIGARS

Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes.

* Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3SN2fHn

* Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49EwtTo

* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MePlusUltraNetwork/podcasts

Business, Bourbon & Cigars is the preeminent resource for ambitious leaders who want a backstage pass to the top. Each episode, we sit down with ultra-successful executives and industry leaders who share their insider strategies for growth and success. And of course, we may even sip on some of the finest bourbon and light up our favorite cigars while we chat.

Each week, we bring you in-depth interviews with high-level executives and industry leaders who have a proven track record and in-depth understanding of what it takes to grow a business. They’ll share their no-nonsense approach, the challenges they faced on their journey to the top, and the strategies that helped them overcome obstacles and forge their own path to ultra-success.

ME PLUS ULTRA

Transform your business and redefine your world with Me Plus Ultra-virtual masterminds and leadership retreats: https://MePlusUltra.com

Me Plus Ultra is a place where visionary entrepreneurs come together, not just to network, but to forge lasting connections, inspire one another, and grow their businesses with confidence and purpose. With exclusive access to industry-leading knowledge,...