What Big Businesses Can Learn From Startups: A Lesson From "Banana Ball"

Let Me Speak To A Manager

#Business #Ian Mathews and Frank Cava #Frank Cava #Careers #MBA #Entrepreneur #Ian Mathewsp

33:58

On June 25th 2025, in collaboration with Open Folk, we presented our first ever live interview event in Los Angeles. As Open Folk put it: "In These Lines is a live event where three artists each bring one song — not just to perform, but to explore. They sit down with Sofia Loporcaro, host of Before The Chorus, to talk about where the song came from, what it meant to write it, and what it still holds. Then they play it. Just the song, and the truth behind it." Find Open Folk on Instagram: @openfolkla Find Gaby on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0K9pSmFx0kWESA9jqx8aCW?si=Wz4RUP88Qlm_RKs7QTLvWQ On Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/gaby-moreno/472697737 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gaby_moreno/ Find Lily on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p0ksmwMDQlAM24TWKu4Ua?si=Bmdg-uIUTHu-zRUc_dqL3g On Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/lily-kershaw/526884610 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lilykershaw/ Find James on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3u50TPoLvMBXNT1KrLa3iT?si=OoLoq7ZTRZyUiytQcz0FsQ On Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/james-spaite/905076868 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamesspaite/ Subscribe: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://beforethechorus.bio.to/listen⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Sign up for our newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.beforethechorus.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@beforethechoruspodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ & ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@soundslikesofia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ About the podcast: Welcome to Before the Chorus , where we go beyond the sounds of our favourite songs to hear the stories of the artists who wrote them. Before a song is released, a record is produced, or a chorus is written, the musicians that write them think. A lot. They live. A lot. And they feel. A LOT. Hosted by award-winning interviewer Sofia Loporcaro, Before the Chorus explores the genuine human experiences behind the music. Sofia’s deep knowledge of music and personal journey with mental health help her connect with artists on a meaningful level. This is a space where fans connect with artists, and listeners from all walks of life feel seen through the stories that shape the music we love. About the host: Sofia Loporcaro is an award-winning interviewer and radio host who’s spent over 8 years helping musicians share their stories. She’s hosted shows for Amazing Radio, and Transmission Roundhouse. Now on Before the Chorus, she’s had the chance to host guests like Glass Animals, Feist, Madison Cunningham, Mick Jenkins, & Ru Paul's Drag Race winner Shea Couleé. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

about a year ago 54:41

MP3•Episode home

03:05 Staying Relevant in a Changing World

05:56 Innovations in Baseball: The Savannah Bananas

08:54 Lessons from the Savannah Bananas

12:02 Learning from Competitors: The Importance of Humility

14:56 The Impact of Tradition on Major League Baseball

17:52 Major League Baseball's Adaptation and Innovations

28:09 The Evolution of Sports Viewership

30:05 Soccer's Rise and the Importance of Game Duration

32:28 Innovation vs. Tradition in Sports

35:16 The Dangers of 'Not Invented Here' Syndrome

39:01 Overcoming Learned Helplessness in Organizations

40:11 The Importance of Dynamism in Business

44:48 Adapting to Market Changes

52:50 Finding Dynamic Solutions in a Static Environment

152 episodes

Let Me Speak To A Manager

What Big Businesses Can Learn From Startups: A Lesson From "Banana Ball"

Let Me Speak To A Manager

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Chapters

03:05 Staying Relevant in a Changing World

05:56 Innovations in Baseball: The Savannah Bananas

08:54 Lessons from the Savannah Bananas

12:02 Learning from Competitors: The Importance of Humility

14:56 The Impact of Tradition on Major League Baseball

17:52 Major League Baseball's Adaptation and Innovations

28:09 The Evolution of Sports Viewership

30:05 Soccer's Rise and the Importance of Game Duration

32:28 Innovation vs. Tradition in Sports

35:16 The Dangers of 'Not Invented Here' Syndrome

39:01 Overcoming Learned Helplessness in Organizations

40:11 The Importance of Dynamism in Business

44:48 Adapting to Market Changes

52:50 Finding Dynamic Solutions in a Static Environment

152 episodes

#Business #Ian Mathews and Frank Cava #Frank Cava #Careers #MBA #Entrepreneur #Ian Mathewsp

All episodes

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
Will A.I. Kill The Role Of The Middle Manager? 44:05

14 days ago44:05

44:05

Summary Frank and Ian discuss the evolving landscape of employment in the age of AI, focusing on the distinction between generalists and specialists. They explore the impact of AI on job security, the rise of Facebook as a case study in business success, and the importance of technical expertise in navigating the workforce. The conversation emphasizes the need for individuals to acquire skills and adapt to the changing job market, highlighting the potential risks for generalists in a world increasingly driven by specialization. Chapters 01:05 The Impact of AI on Employment 04:02 Advice for Young Professionals 05:51 The Rise of Facebook: A Case Study 10:01 The Role of Proximity in Business Success 13:41 The Winklevoss Twins and the Importance of Technical Skills 17:42 Job Security in the Age of AI 20:02 The Legal Battles of Facebook's Rise 21:29 The Role of Expertise in Business Growth 22:44 Generalists vs. Specialists in Leadership 24:25 The Importance of Technical Knowledge in Management 26:14 The Trade-offs of Middle Management 28:26 AI's Impact on Technical Skills and Knowledge Retention 34:16 The Future of Jobs: Specialists vs. Generalists 38:23 The Value of Trade Skills in an AI World 40:45 Understanding the Cost of Expertise…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
How To Say No Like A Pro (Without Being Offensive) 51:48

21 days ago51:48

51:48

Ian and Frank explore the complexities of saying no in both personal and professional contexts. They share humorous anecdotes, delve into the psychology behind our reluctance to decline requests, and discuss the importance of setting boundaries. The conversation highlights famous examples of individuals who have successfully navigated the art of saying no, emphasizing that it can lead to greater opportunities and personal growth. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences and consider how they can apply these insights to their lives. Chapters 00:00 Debating the utility of the word "balls" 01:56 The Importance of Saying No 05:52 Famous Examples of Saying No 11:52 The Psychology Behind Saying No 17:56 Social Conditioning and Fear of Rejection 20:54 Time Management and Opportunity Cost 22:34 The Power of Time and Task Management 24:48 Sacrifices for Success: The Weekend Grind 28:01 Swinging at Your Pitch: The Importance of Focus 31:21 Knowing When to Delegate: The Balance of Responsibility 33:02 The Dangers of Saying Yes: Managing Expectations 35:54 The Art of Saying No: Setting Boundaries 38:39 Communicating Your Limits: The Importance of Transparency 41:57 Finding Balance: Social Requests vs. Personal Time…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
How To Find And Keep Your Perfect Mentor 1:08:10

5 weeks ago1:08:10

1:08:10

Ian and Frank delve into the significance of mentorship in personal and professional development. They share personal anecdotes about their mentors, discuss the psychology behind mentorship, and explore the dynamics of mentor-mentee relationships. The conversation emphasizes the importance of finding the right mentor, the role of self-interest in mentorship, and the value of follow-up in maintaining these relationships. They also touch on the differences between mentorship and training, and the challenges of seeking mentorship in today's digital age. Chapters 03:37 Navigating Professional Challenges 06:35 The Role of Mentors in Career Development 09:23 Famous Mentorships and Their Impact 12:26 Understanding the Dynamics of Mentorship 15:38 Learning from Both Strengths and Weaknesses 18:51 The Fragility of Mentorship 21:46 Peer Relationships and Mentorship 24:52 The Psychology Behind Mentorship 27:27 Becoming a Mentor Yourself 34:25 The Psychology of Mentorship 39:49 The Power Dynamics in Mentorship 43:59 Identifying Goals for Mentorship 48:52 Building Relationships with Mentors 52:56 Finding the Right Mentor 57:17 Investing in Mentorship…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
What Big Businesses Can Learn From Startups: A Lesson From "Banana Ball" 54:41

6 weeks ago54:41

54:41

Frank and Ian explore the themes of rule-breaking and innovation in business, particularly through the lens of technology and customer engagement. They discuss the importance of staying relevant in a rapidly changing world, using the example of the Savannah Bananas, a baseball team that has successfully reinvented the game to attract a new audience. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by Major League Baseball in adapting to modern viewer preferences and the lessons that can be learned from smaller, more agile companies. In this conversation, Ian Mathews and Frank Cava explore the evolving landscape of sports viewership, the rise of soccer in America, and the importance of innovation in business. They discuss the challenges faced by traditional sports leagues like MLB, the impact of learned helplessness in organizations, and the necessity of being dynamic in response to market changes. The dialogue emphasizes the balance between maintaining core values and adapting to new trends, using examples from various industries to illustrate their points. Chapters 03:05 Staying Relevant in a Changing World 05:56 Innovations in Baseball: The Savannah Bananas 08:54 Lessons from the Savannah Bananas 12:02 Learning from Competitors: The Importance of Humility 14:56 The Impact of Tradition on Major League Baseball 17:52 Major League Baseball's Adaptation and Innovations 28:09 The Evolution of Sports Viewership 30:05 Soccer's Rise and the Importance of Game Duration 32:28 Innovation vs. Tradition in Sports 35:16 The Dangers of 'Not Invented Here' Syndrome 39:01 Overcoming Learned Helplessness in Organizations 40:11 The Importance of Dynamism in Business 44:48 Adapting to Market Changes 52:50 Finding Dynamic Solutions in a Static Environment…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
Why Interest Rates Won't Save The Real Estate Market This Time 52:48

7 weeks ago52:48

52:48

In this conversation, Ian Mathews and Frank Cava discuss the current state of the real estate market, focusing on the impact of rising interest rates, builder strategies, and buyer psychology. They explore market trends, the challenges faced by builders, and the importance of adapting to changing conditions. The discussion also touches on government policies affecting housing affordability and investment strategies for navigating the evolving landscape. Ultimately, they emphasize the need for flexibility and a proactive approach in the real estate industry. Chapters 00:00 The Current State of Real Estate 03:04 Builder Trends and Market Dynamics 06:15 Interest Rates and Market Psychology 09:01 The Impact of Market Sentiment 12:06 Navigating the Real Estate Landscape 14:42 Future Predictions and Market Adjustments 26:28 The Challenges of Young Buyers in Real Estate 27:04 The Rise of Accidental Landlords 29:09 Current Inventory Trends and Market Dynamics 30:26 The Shortage of New Construction 31:55 Lessons from Past Market Downturns 36:22 Government Initiatives for Housing Affordability 38:23 Navigating Regulations and Market Changes 41:37 Embracing the Reality of High Interest Rates 45:17 Strategies for Real Estate Success in a Tough Market…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
The Motley Crue Mindset: Why You Should Lean Into Your Darkest Moments 43:30

8 weeks ago43:30

43:30

Summary In this conversation, Ian and Frank explore various themes surrounding resilience, trauma, and success, using the song 'Kickstart My Heart' by Motley Crue as a focal point. They discuss the importance of personal stories in business, the role of trauma in shaping successful individuals, and the necessity of reinvention in a constantly changing market. The dialogue is filled with humor, personal anecdotes, and insightful reflections on the entrepreneurial journey, making it relatable and inspiring for listeners. Chapters 04:27 Kickstart My Heart: The Story Behind the Song 07:19 Resilience and Adversity: Lessons from Trauma 12:40 The Impact of Trauma on Success 18:38 Overcoming Challenges and Finding Freedom 20:10 Multiple Strategies for Success 21:02 The Power of Personal Connection in Business 22:53 The Importance of Belief in Your Product 24:52 Collaboration and Team Dynamics 27:23 Embracing Vulnerability and Open Communication 31:25 Reinvention and Staying Relevant 35:40 Chasing Goals and Overcoming Doubt SHOW NOTES: "Necessity is the mother of invention." ~Plato "Necessity is the mother of skills." ~Frank Cava…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
Our Final Weekend With Warren Buffett In Omaha 1:34:02

9 weeks ago1:34:02

1:34:02

With the recent news that Warren Buffett is stepping down as CEO, Frank and Ian recount their last trip to see the Oracle of Omaha.

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
5 Career-Killing Mistakes of Shedeur Sanders: How You Can Avoid Overplaying Your Hand 43:34

10 weeks ago43:34

43:34

Ian and Frank explore themes of expectation versus reality, the impact of arrogance in applying for a position, and the importance of humility in both sports and business. The discussion highlights the lessons that can be learned from Sanders' experience during the 2025 NFL Draft process. Chapters 03:28 Shadour Sanders: The Legacy of a Star 06:35 The Impact of NIL and College Football Dynamics 09:25 The Draft Process: Surprises and Speculations 12:14 The Shock of Falling Draft Stock 15:22 Arrogance and Expectations: The Sanders Approach 21:35 Comparing Legacies: Deion vs. Shadour Sanders 23:44 Navigating the Hiring Process 25:10 The Importance of Self-Awareness in Management 27:19 The Dangers of Overconfidence 29:39 Learning from Mistakes and Seeking the Right Advice 32:04 The Role of Humility in Career Success 35:03 Transforming Failures into Opportunities 37:39 The Path to Redemption and Growth…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
How We Landed Shaq For A Celebrity Endorsement 1:00:24

11 weeks ago1:00:24

1:00:24

In this episode, Ian recounts the incredible journey of how his startup, Keep Technologies, secured an endorsement with Shaquille O'Neal. They discuss the preparation leading up to the meeting, the unexpected FaceTime call from Shaq, and the successful product demo that followed. The episode highlights the importance of networking, the excitement of having a celebrity endorsement, and the lessons learned throughout the process. Ultimately, it’s a story of perseverance, strategic risk-taking, and the potential for success in the entrepreneurial world. *This episode was recorded in October of 2023, following a day spent recording a commercial with Shaquille O'Neal. We waited to release the episode to coincide with the advertising campaign.…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
Why do people do the opposite when given advice? The psychology of reactance 59:06

12 weeks ago59:06

59:06

Ian Mathews and Frank Cava explore the psychological concept of reactance, the human need for autonomy, and why giving advice as a manager often backfires. The conversation also touches on marketing failures, such as the Tide Pods incident, and the balance between being a maverick and adhering to societal norms. They discuss the Socratic method as a powerful tool for managers to engage employees during performance appraisals and emphasize the importance of situational leadership in adapting management styles to individual team members. The conversation highlights the need for managers to be aware of their team's dynamics and to use questioning techniques to foster growth and accountability. Chapters 03:13 The Human Condition of Rebellion 06:12 Cultural Reflections: The Breakfast Club 09:14 Understanding Authority and Rebellion 12:10 Psychological Insights: Reactance and Human Needs 14:56 Case Studies: Tide Pods and Marketing Failures 18:08 Mavericks in Society: Balancing Rules and Freedom 28:00 Understanding Reactance in Management 31:59 The Florida Truth Campaign: A Case Study 34:57 The Socratic Method in Management 47:04 Performance Appraisals: A New Approach 55:48 Situational Leadership and Adaptability…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
The Ben Franklin Effect: How to win anyone over (even your biggest enemies) 47:17

13 weeks ago47:17

47:17

Show Notes: "Nut-cutting time" is when extreme, drastic, or decisive action is required; a period, usually near the end of an endeavor, when pressure to succeed is most intense; crunch time. Summary In this conversation, Frank Cava and Ian Mathews explore the dynamics of asking for favors and the psychological principles behind it, particularly the Ben Franklin effect. They discuss how small requests can build relationships, influence, and trust in both personal and professional settings. The conversation highlights the importance of gratitude, follow-up, and genuine communication in fostering connections and achieving success. Takeaways Asking for favors can strengthen relationships. The Ben Franklin effect shows that doing favors increases likability. Small requests can lead to significant influence. Gratitude and follow-up are crucial in favor exchanges. Handwritten notes can make a lasting impression. Social media can amplify the impact of asking for favors. Building influence requires strategic relationship management. Genuine communication fosters trust and collaboration. Navigating professional relationships involves mutual respect. The power of asking for advice can lead to unexpected opportunities. Chapters 00:00 The Godfather: A Family Tradition 19:36 The Ben Franklin Effect in Relationships 24:40 Lessons from Moneyball: Asking for Favors 29:34 Building Relationships Through Favors 34:10 The Power of Handwritten Notes 39:00 Empowering Others in Business 44:01 The Importance of Genuine Requests…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
How far will real estate prices fall in this recession? 48:41

14 weeks ago48:41

48:41

In this conversation, Ian Mathews and Frank Cava discuss the current state of the real estate and stock markets, exploring themes of investment strategies, market dynamics, and external economic factors. They reflect on personal experiences and insights gained from years in the industry, emphasizing the importance of understanding market trends and making informed decisions. The discussion also touches on the impact of interest rates, insurance costs, and the slow nature of real estate transactions, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of the current financial landscape. In this conversation, Ian Mathews and Frank Cava delve into the current state of investment strategies, particularly in real estate and the stock market. They discuss the importance of understanding market dynamics, the impact of FHA loans, and the divergence between luxury and affordable housing markets. The conversation also touches on Warren Buffett's strategic decisions and the significance of maintaining a strong cash position in uncertain economic times. Chapters 00:00 March Madness and Market Jitters 02:47 Navigating Real Estate and Stock Market Dynamics 05:51 Understanding Market Peaks and Trends 09:01 The Impact of External Factors on Real Estate 11:57 The Slow Nature of Real Estate Transactions 15:02 Metrics for Assessing Market Sentiment 17:55 Historical Context and Future Predictions 23:42 The Gamble of Investment Strategies 25:59 Market Dynamics: Winners and Losers 28:28 The Divergence in Housing Markets 32:05 Understanding FHA Loans and Their Impact 36:14 The Current State of the Housing Market 38:52 Warren Buffett's Strategic Moves 44:27 Cash Positioning in Uncertain Times SHOW NOTES: *Frank actually wrote this outline and put more than 3 minutes of preparation into the episode. If you see him on the street, make sure to offer some positive encouragement for his contributions.…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
Trump's Tariff Play: Genius Move or Reckless Mistake? 49:03

15 weeks ago49:03

49:03

Summary Ian and Frank analyze recent market reactions to tariff announcements, the historical context of tariffs in America, and the strategic use of tariffs in economic policy, particularly under the Trump administration. They discuss the strategic motivations behind Trump's policies, particularly in relation to China and economic adjustments. They explore the implications of tariffs, the challenges of national debt, and the potential pain associated with economic reforms. The discussion highlights the uncertainty in the market and the opportunities that arise during disruptive times, emphasizing the importance of understanding economic dynamics and preparing for future challenges. Chapters 00:00 The Story Behind Ben Stein's Role in Ferris Bueller's Day Off 04:15 Understanding Tariffs and Their Impact 08:38 Market Reactions to Recent Tariff Announcements 11:40 The Role of Tariffs in Economic Strategy 18:59 Historical Context of Tariffs in America 23:03 Trump's Strategy: A Game of Power 27:37 Economic Challenges and the Role of Debt 31:06 The Pain of Economic Adjustments 35:45 Navigating Tariffs and Market Disruptions 40:00 Opportunities Amidst Uncertainty…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
What is a Mastermind and why should you join one? 34:51

16 weeks ago34:51

34:51

Summary In this conversation, Ian Mathews and Frank Cava discuss the concept of masterminds, focusing on Frank's journey in creating his own mastermind group. They explore the importance of high-level conversations, the criteria for membership, and the strategies for marketing and customer acquisition. Frank shares insights on building a community of like-minded individuals and the value of curated discussions in fostering growth and learning. The conversation also touches on the challenges and successes of launching the first meeting of the mastermind, emphasizing the importance of quality over quantity in membership. Takeaways Masterminds provide a platform for high-level conversations. Building a community is essential for personal and professional growth. Criteria for membership should focus on greatness and compatibility. Marketing strategies should leverage existing relationships and networks. Creating value in meetings is crucial for member retention. Hiring the right team can enhance the quality of the mastermind. Slow growth with the right people is preferable to rapid expansion. Curated discussions lead to deeper learning and insights. Professional presentation can elevate the perceived value of events. The name and concept of the mastermind should resonate with its purpose.…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
Is this the end of working from home? Jamie Dimon's rant explained 44:24

18 weeks ago44:24

44:24

Summary In this episode of Let Me Speak to a Manager, Ian Mathews and Frank Cava discuss the importance of in-person work, the shift back to office culture, and the role of mentorship in the workplace. They explore the end of entitlement in work culture and the impact of AI on future job security. The conversation is filled with humor, rants, and insights into the evolving work landscape. Chapters: 00:00 The Return of the Podcast 03:25 Rants and Real Estate 06:25 The Importance of In-Person Work 12:25 Mentorship and Learning in the Office 19:23 Corporate Culture and Employee Expectations 22:43 Elon Musk's Remote Work Mandate 25:18 The Culture of Hard Work at Musk's Companies 27:42 Honesty in Company Culture 30:54 The End of Entitlement in the Workforce 33:20 The Shift Back to In-Office Work 35:08 The Reality of Remote Work 37:02 The Journey to Success 39:57 The Impenetrable CEO: Jamie Dimon 41:22 The Future of Work and AI…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
Debating the greatest party anthems of all-time (March Madness edition) 1:34:28

2 years ago1:34:28

1:34:28

We built a bracket of 64 all-time party anthems and decided on a winner. The Criteria: It could be any genre (rock, country, hip-hop, R&B, pop) It could be any kind of party (rager, backyard bbq, wedding, tailgate) **Please note that our list is light on pop music from the past 15 years and highly biased. ***This episode has nothing to do with business, investing, careers, sales/marketing, markets, real estate, or anything remotely intelligent. But it does answer our show's guiding star question, "Is it fun?"…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
How to overcome 16 of the most common sales objections (March Madness edition!) 1:20:36

2 years ago1:20:36

1:20:36

We brought in Indiana's #1 realtor, Jeff Paxson, to help us with the best responses to the most common sales objections. In a March Madness-style bracket, we pit objections against each other, moving on to those that we consider the most difficult to handle. We debate the best responses to "Your fees are too high," "Can you call me back next month," "I had a bad experience with your company before," "Your online reviews are terrible," and more!…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
Is your career stagnating because you fear failure? 39:57

2 years ago39:57

39:57

Behind every inspirational story at the Super Bowl was a long list of personal failures, setbacks, and losses. The top names in the biggest game rose to prominence by building off each failure. In this episode, we look at how failure can be used as a fuel rather than a black mark on your career. "I either win, or I learn. But I never lose." ~Jalen Hurts, quarterback of the Philadelphia Eagles (losers of Super Bowl LVII)…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
Could you handle the pressure of a $13 Million contract? 38:33

2 years ago38:33

38:33

The future looked bright for one highly recruited high school football contract. And then he made history with the largest licensing deal offered to a recruit before signing with the University of Florida. As soon as he took the money, things fell apart. In this episode, we look at the pressure and expectations of landing life-changing money.…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
How Chick-fil-A scales good DNA 37:30

2 years ago37:30

37:30

Chick-fil-A is among the most profitable restaurant chains in history. It routinely ranks #1 in customer service, and individual franchises boast profit margins unfathomable amongst their peers. Frank recently attended a conference with Chick-fil-A Chairman Dan Cathy. This episode summarizes Cathy's masterclass on building a high-performing culture, hiring and retaining great people, and scaling a world-class profit machine.…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
Is it time to be fearful or greedy? 42:20

2 years ago42:20

42:20

"Be fearful when others are greedy, and greedy when others are fearful." ~Warren Buffet (and Frank Cava) The market swung violently from pessimism to "full bull mode" in January. Rates came in, stocks were up, and bidding wars are flaring back up in real estate and trading cards. Is risk back on, or is this economy setting itself up for an even bigger collapse? We break it down from a fundamental perspective. Get your popcorn!…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
When does it make sense to pass on a massive pay increase? 41:34

2 years ago41:34

41:34

In this episode, we look at several high profile examples where individuals passed on life-changing money in the short term to build even more wealth in the future.

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
Why Frank spent $18,000 on a Tony Robbins event 28:28

3 years ago28:28

28:28

Frank is never afraid to pour profits back into investments in himself. In this episode, Frank walks us through his decision to cut a massive check to the success guru, Tony Robbins, and takes us into this week-long Business Mastery course for an inside glance at what it was like to attend.

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
Should You Narrow Your Focus Or Spread Your Bets? 1:14:46

3 years ago1:14:46

1:14:46

Prevailing wisdom extolls the virtues of diversification. Spread your effort and investments so that no venture can bring you down. But how much do you know about anything with so little time invested in each? Look at the richest individuals in history, and you'll find very few who did it by diversifying. Most took big bets on themselves, burned the boats, and pushed all their chips onto the table. We debate the merits of both strategies in this episode.…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
Do You Suffer From Negativity Bias? 1:06:03

3 years ago1:06:03

1:06:03

Negativity bias is a cognitive bias that explains why negative events or feelings typically have a more significant impact on our psychological state than positive events or feelings, even when they are of equal proportion. In this episode, we look at how this bias can help or hurt our decision-making in our careers, investing, and leading people.…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
How To Follow Up After An Interview 24:23

3 years ago24:23

24:23

So you nailed the job interview, congratulations. Now what? We've got you covered in this episode and our conclusion might surprise you.

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
Are we at risk of another debt crisis? 37:45

3 years ago37:45

37:45

Bull markets are like great parties. Everyone has a blast, they go on forever, and no one wants the night to end. The global economy has been raging for a decade and now we're straight into the after-party. But how are we funding this late-night extension? Debt. Lots of debt. With consumer debt now at levels twice as high as the last debt crisis, it feels like we are headed for one hell of a hangover.…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
Why Do People Cheat? 1:07:05

3 years ago1:07:05

1:07:05

Does it feel like more people are cheating? Whether it is chess, walleye fishing tournaments, poker, or CEOs of cryptocurrency exchanges, the news is filled with liars, scammers, and frauds. In this episode, we examine the cheater's mindset and what can be done about it.

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
How We Raised $2,800,000 In A Terrible Market 1:00:35

3 years ago1:00:35

1:00:35

In this episode, we discuss the process of raising private capital for a technology startup in 2022. Frank interviews Ian about the recently closed funding round for Keep, an early-stage tech company focused on car security and monitoring. Ian shares how he chose who to pitch, their concerns, and the unique challenges of doing this during an economic downturn.…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
When will we hit bottom? 53:22

3 years ago53:22

53:22

Crypto crashes, consumer debt hitting record levels, the stock market is crashing, Musk is firing half of Twitter ... are these signs of a bottom, or are we just getting started? Frank and Ian dig into these juicy morsels like they were eating double bacon cheeseburgers.

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
Why do we get bored so easily at work? (and what to do about it) 46:56

52 weeks ago46:56

46:56

Summary The conversation covers various topics, including deep-fried cheese sticks, preventing boredom, Granddad's birthday, the dog track, staying motivated, and the process of writing. The conversation explores the importance of setting goals and chasing after them to find fulfillment and avoid boredom. It emphasizes the need for a North Star goal and breaks it down into actionable steps. The hosts discuss the significance of motivation and how it can be sustained by constantly setting new challenges and finding new reasons to be excited. They also highlight the role of incentives and contests in driving innovation and engagement within a business. The conversation concludes with the idea that choosing something to chase is the key to happiness and personal growth. Chapters 00:00 The Adult Food on Children's Menus 02:38 Granddad's Dedication to the Dog Track 09:27 Finding New Rabbits to Chase 11:19 Staying Motivated: Setting New Goals 16:07 The Process of Writing: Falling in Love with the Grind 29:12 Motivation and Challenges 45:36 Choosing Something to Chase for Happiness and Personal Growth…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
How to change your manager's mind 51:10

1 year ago51:10

51:10

Summary In this conversation, Ian and Frank discuss the topic of changing your manager's mind. They share their personal experiences and insights on navigating the dynamics between managers and employees. They explore why managers often fall in love with their ideas and the challenges of convincing them otherwise. They also discuss the importance of trust, competence, and taking ownership in building a persuasive case. The conversation highlights the need to understand the manager's perspective and the impact of decisions on their roles and responsibilities. The conversation discusses five methods to change the mind of a manager. These methods include bringing new information to the table, explaining the unintended consequences, using facts and data, building a posse of supporters, and changing the environment. The hosts provide examples and insights on how to implement these methods effectively. They emphasize the importance of removing ego and being open-minded to new ideas. The conversation also highlights the significance of storytelling, seeking feedback, and maintaining conviction when persuading a manager. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Experiences 03:02 Managers Falling in Love with Their Own Ideas 06:09 Taking Ownership and Making a Big Impact 08:07 Managers Making Decisions for Frontline Employees 13:20 The Role of Trust and Fear in Persuasion 21:18 Proving Competence and Taking on More Responsibility 23:14 Good Managers Harnessing and Empowering Employees 23:32 Bringing New Information 26:51 Explaining Unintended Consequences 30:08 Using Facts and Data 37:08 Building a Posse 44:42 Changing the Environment…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
How Did Burnout Become Normal? (And How To Push Back) 51:13

1 year ago51:13

51:13

Are you burned out? You're not alone. Burnout feels inevitable in this age. But you don't have to roll over and give up. Frank and Ian outline several steps to help you get your mojo back.

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
How to Stop Procrastinating by Using the “Seinfeld Strategy” 45:10

1 year ago45:10

45:10

Takeaways Consistency and daily practice are key to achieving success in any endeavor. The Seinfeld method, or creating a streak of positive habits, can help build momentum and lead to long-term results. Writing every day can help establish credibility and build a following. Distinguishing between fads and trends is important in setting sustainable goals and habits. Streaks can gamify habits and make them more enjoyable and motivating. Consistency and daily habits are crucial for success in personal and business endeavors. Lead generation and marketing should be daily habits in order to grow a business. Streaks can lead to significant long-term rewards and success. Streaks can also have negative consequences, such as burnout. Starting and maintaining streaks can have a compounding effect over time. Chapters 07:36 Introducing the Seinfeld Method 14:45 The Power of Consistency and Daily Practice 27:31 The Role of Daily Lead Generation and Marketing in Business 34:37 The Uninterrupted Streak of Breathing 43:56 Starting and Maintaining Streaks for Success…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
How to raise $2.5M in private capital 46:50

1 year ago46:50

46:50

In this conversation, Ian and Frank discuss their experiences raising capital for their businesses and investing in different markets. They explore factors influencing a small business owner's decision to seek capital, such as market conditions and personal financial goals. They also delve into the advantages of investing in Richmond, Virginia, including lower costs compared to other markets and the ability to leverage their knowledge and contacts. The conversation highlights two investment structures they have used: a portfolio of single-family homes and the renovation of commercial buildings. Overall, they emphasize the importance of understanding the market and building a solid team when seeking capital and investing in real estate. Frank and Ian discuss their previous real estate deals and their current investment opportunity. They highlight each deal's different structures and returns, emphasizing the importance of having multiple exit strategies and considering market conditions. They also discuss the benefits of private funding over traditional bank loans and the security of investing in real estate-backed bonds. 01:38 The Market in 2024: Hunting for Capital 06:05 Richmond's Market and Potential 08:38 Richmond's Metropolitan Statistical Area 10:31 Considering Other Markets: Fort Lauderdale, California, and DC 13:03 Entering the Richmond Market 14:00 Why Continue Investing in Richmond? 15:42 Challenges of Entering a New Market 20:04 Different Investment Structures: Single-Family Homes and Commercial Buildings 22:56 Structuring the Investments: Portfolio of Single-Family Homes 23:26 Structuring the Investments: Renovation of Commercial Buildings 23:52 Different Deal Structures 30:48 Investing in Identical Assets 35:25 Real Estate-Backed Bonds for Cash Flow 41:08 Private Funding vs. Traditional Bank Loans 44:28 Diversifying Investment Portfolios 45:16 Market Conditions and Team Strength…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
Why is it so hard to start again after taking a break? 38:21

1 year ago38:21

38:21

Frank and Ian discuss the challenges of restarting after taking a break in this conversation. They share personal experiences and insights on overcoming inertia and embracing discomfort when starting something new. They emphasize the importance of commitment, setting goals, finding leverage, and seeking support to hold oneself accountable. They also highlight the benefits of taking breaks to recharge and gain fresh perspectives. They encourage listeners to take control of their decisions and make intentional choices when restarting or pursuing new endeavors. Takeaways: Restarting after a break can be challenging, but it is possible with the right mindset and strategies. Embrace discomfort and lean into the change process to overcome inertia and create new habits. Set specific goals, find leverage, and seek support to hold yourself accountable. Taking breaks can provide opportunities for recharging, gaining fresh perspectives, and avoiding burnout. 00:00 Introduction and Catching Up 02:15 Taking a Break from Podcasting 05:30 The Challenges of Restarting 09:01 The Importance of Commitment and Change 11:08 Embracing Discomfort and Overcoming Inertia 20:32 Setting Goals and Finding Leverage 26:33 The Benefits of Taking Breaks 30:06 Accountability and Recharging 35:37 Seeking Support and Holding Yourself Accountable…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
How to shortcut a turnaround like Coach Deion Sanders 41:50

2 years ago41:50

41:50

Coach "Prime" is disrupting the landscape of college football recruiting. Assuming a roster that won only one game in 2022, Deion Sanders is wasting no time upgrading the roster but at what cost? In this episode, we talk about the pros and cons of building a team versus buying one (along with the short and long-term repercussions).…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
Inside our epic boys trip to Omaha to see Warren Buffett at the 2023 Berkshire Hathaway annual meeting 1:34:02

2 years ago1:34:02

1:34:02

Screw Vegas; real men take boys trips to Omaha! Thinking of going to see Warren and Charlie next year at the biggest investor event of the year? Frank and Ian give you an inside look at what you can expect from travel, accommodations, restaurants, tickets, finding a seat, and of course, where to find a decent casino.…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
Should participation trophies be banned? 52:00

2 years ago52:00

52:00

North Carolina has introduced a bill to eliminate participation trophies. We debate the merits of continuous versus intermittent feedback and how demonizing encouragement for beginners might not be the best answer. When is it appropriate to cheer participation, and when is it hurtful? We look at the parallels of youth sports with managing a corporate team.…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
Are You Too “Busy” To Be Productive? 1:03:11

2 years ago1:03:11

1:03:11

Too many people major in minor things. Anyone who responds with “busy” every time you ask them how they’re doing is likely not a productive asset to their company. Why are people busy? It’s typically an inability to prioritize, a refusal to delegate, and an unwillingness to tackle the hardest tasks. So they fill their day moving paper around and responding to emails while the wealthy focus on a few big things and ruthlessly cut everything out of their schedule. In this episode, we dive into the psychological barriers involved with “busy” people and talk about how you can switch your focus.…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
Our advice to the marketing team at Bud Light 40:25

2 years ago40:25

40:25

Bud Light became the subject of future business school case studies when it alienated a significant portion of its core customer base. By some estimates, the mistake could cost the king of beers up to $5,000,000,000. With one decision, Bud Light handed millions of cases of beer over to Miller Lite and Coors Lite. In this episode, we offer free advice on what Bud Light should do in response to this all-time bomb of a campaign, and we also look at the moves its competitors should focus on.…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
How Do You Know When It Is Time To Fire Someone? 54:07

2 years ago54:07

54:07

Most new managers try to "fix" every poor performer. This is part ego and part naivety that everyone can be "fixed." But these employees suck up your time as a manager and keep you from spending time with your best performers. And when these managers are finally forced to fire their first employee, they rarely look back and think it was too fast. So how do you know when it is time to cut someone loose? We dive into this topic using our personal experiences as managers and executives.…

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
The Ostrich Effect: Do You Suffer From FOFO? 45:47

2 years ago45:47

45:47

The Ostrich Effect explains the peculiar phenomenon where people stick their heads in the sand during lousy times, ignoring troubling information easily accessible to them. Put differently, FOFO (fear of finding out) can be more dangerous than FOMO (fear of missing out).

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
The GROVER Method: How To Connect With Anyone In 5 Minutes 49:29

2 years ago49:29

49:29

Whether you are new to an office, leading a new team, or working in sales, connecting with people is critical. And most people are doing it all wrong. In this episode, we bust out a cheat code to help you build a relationship with anyone in five minutes or less.

Let Me Speak To A Manager

1
Welcome to the next banking crisis (same as the old one?) 1:05:43

2 years ago1:05:43