Squeeze a Whole Business Book into Your Lunch Break

If you’re running a business, leading a team, or scaling a side hustle, chances are your “books to read” list is growing faster than the actual reading time you have available. But, there are ways around the time it takes to read an entire book.

This modern app, 12min, is a productivity tool that distills the key insights from more than 1,800 bestselling titles into bite-size, 12-minute reads or audio summaries that are designed to fit your schedule. They call them micro-reads.

This isn’t just another summary app. It’s a business resource for leaders who want to sharpen their thinking, strengthen their strategy, and keep pace with new ideas—without carving hours out of their day. Whether you’re revisiting the classics like The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People or exploring the latest in marketing, leadership, or personal development, 12min helps you soak up game-changing lessons while you’re commuting, working out, or waiting for your next meeting.

Each micro book is crafted by real editors—not AI bots—so you get clear, accurate takeaways. Plus, you can access them offline, listen on the go, or send them straight to your Kindle.

You’ll get access to 30 new titles each month, unlimited downloads, and full access to categories like Leadership, Startups, Productivity, Sales, and Psychology. It’s everything you’ve wanted to read, but finally made manageable. That means your reading list evolves with the business world, from new books on AI strategy and remote leadership to emerging insights on personal productivity.

For a one-time payment, you’ll have lifetime access to a resource that makes you a sharper entrepreneur, smarter manager, and more well-rounded thinker.

Don’t miss getting a lifetime of 12min’s Premium Subscription for just $39.99 (reg. $399.90) while you can.

12min Micro Book Library: Lifetime Premium Subscription

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How to Remove or Bury Negative Articles on Google

Building a strong brand means recognizing potential reputation crises and knowing how to handle online articles that misrepresent you or your business. Negative press on Google can erode customer trustand disrupt your operations.

Burying negative search results can be complex, time-consuming and cost a fortune that in the long run will negatively affect the financials of your company or your career. Fortunately, there are branding experts who specialize in removing or burying unfavorable articles from the Google search engine. Whether you’re an individual or a business, it’s important to have a good reputation by removing any negative content as soon as possible.

Related: 5 Tactics to Bury Bad Press and Reclaim Your Brand Reputation

Benefits of deleting negative online articles

The public perception of your brand greatly depends on your ability to know how to remove bad search results. False reviews and misleading articles damage your credibility in many ways. Harmful content can even lower your search rankings when it increases your bounce rates and decreases click-through rates.

This means you’ll have fewer people visiting your site, which can significantly affect purchases and revenue. A lot of customers who may have wanted to do business with you may no longer want to after they read a bad article about your company. And the longer the bad information stays up on the internet, the worse the reputation damage will be.

Reach out to the website to report a breach of its content policies

Many websites enforce strict rules for the content they publish. If you discover an article about your brand that contains false or incorrect information, first review the site’s content policy. If the article appears to violate its rules, you may request its removal by providing proof that the article breaches a specific policy that they have.

Contact the site by providing clear facts why this article breaches the policy, and ask that they update it or remove it completely from the site.

Related: How to Remove Negative Reviews Online and Protect Your Online Reputation

Ask Google to take down the content from the search results

If you reach out to the website administrator and have no luck getting the content taken down, you can always ask Google to remove it for you. Google does a great job of helping users delete negative links that contain false information, fake content, or serious defamation, if the content qualifies for removal. You’ll have to explain your case and provide proof to support it.

Get in touch with the writer directly to discuss the issue

In many cases, contacting the author who wrote a specific piece directly is the most effective approach. Look up the email on the website, craft a nice email and explain what part of the article you believe is unfair or untrue. Make sure to include lots of facts and screenshots to back up your request. The writer might agree to edit or remove the article to maintain accuracy and credibility.

Related: The 5 ‘Cs’ Approach to Conflict Resolution in the Workplace

What does it mean to remove negative online articles?

Suppressing negative online content is much different than having it deleted, but it can still help your brand’s credibility in lots of ways. The search engine suppression process involves a mixture of unique approaches, like adding more positive content to the internet about your company, publishing press releases and optimizing SEO across multiple platforms.

When done strategically, the good content about your brand will take the place of the bad articles in search results.

Search engines often display social media profiles on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter on the first page of results. You should definitely sign up for these services now if you haven’t already. Be sure to utilize your company name consistently across all of your profiles and to fill them out to the fullest.

Related: How to Better Manage Your Brand’s Reputation in the Digital Age

Build new websites focused on branded search terms

Building a new website is another way to suppress negative articles about your brand. The new site should be full of information that praises your company and all of its offerings. Highlighting the strengths in the webpages you publish will boost your credibility and search visibility.

It’s also a good idea to include a page that clearly outlines positive reviews provided by current and former customers. Over time, these pages will rise in their search rankings, suppressing the harmful articles that damage your brand image.

Publish articles on trusted external platforms

Next, you’ll want to create high-quality material on popular websites that have high search rankings. You can do this through contributions, insightful analyses and thought leadership articles. Pick subjects that are relevant to your field, and be sure to mention your company name subtly throughout. Upon publication, these pieces will bolster your brand’s credibility and redirect focus from previous negative mentions.

Build a presence with links

Having a strong brand presence on authoritative websites that have relevant articles to your industry is essential for suppressing negative information about your individual brand or your company. We live in a world where people use Google on a daily basis, and they always research the company before they want to work with it. That’s why links not only help build trust with potential customers but also push down unwanted or harmful search results on Google.

Research keywords that trigger a negative result

Find out what keywords bring up the bad article by Googling your name or company. Once you know which terms lead to the bad content, you can make new pages that employ the same keywords positively. Doing this will result in the new, positive content coming up first in search results by causing the unfavorable information to fall in the rankings.

Final Hours to Get Windows 11 Pro with Copilot for Just $10

If your computer is still running Windows 10, the clock is ticking. Microsoft announced that it is ending support for the beloved OS later this year, meaning it will no longer offer free software updates or security releases. Rather than scramble to upgrade at full price later, get Windows 11 Pro at an all-time low price now.

While you may be able to install Windows 11 Home, the basic version, at no cost, you won’t get remote desktop access, BitLocker device encryption, Hyper-V, or other exclusive features. Besides, at only $9.97, this Windows 11 Pro key can upgrade two compatible PCs (reg. $199). This price is only valid through July 15.

Features designed to support professionals and remote workers

Like many, you may be procrastinating this upgrade because you think you won’t like the new user design, but there’s a lot to love. It’s not too unlike Windows 10, and you’ll have new productivity tools like snap layouts, an improved search function, and widgets to streamline your workdays.

Upgrading to Windows 11 also means you get Copilot, the AI assistant. Powered by a custom version of GPT-4, it’s basically like having the premium version of Open AI living in your PC for generating text, images, code, and answering questions.

Almost instantly after completing your purchase, you’ll receive an email with a download link and activation code to install Windows 11 Pro on up to two PCs, like your work and personal computers. Enjoy software upgrades as long as Microsoft supports this OS.

Why this deal is worth it

Operating systems aren’t just background software—they shape how efficiently (and securely) you work. With Windows 10 sunsetting soon, this Windows 11 Pro deal is a rare chance to modernize your tech stack without the usual price tag. For just $10, you can streamline two machines with pro-grade features typically reserved for business users. It’s also a smart hedge against future compatibility issues, software lockouts, or the rising cost of digital tools. Think of it as preventative maintenance that actually saves you money.

Don’t miss this Windows 11 Pro discount: $9.97 until July 15 at 11:59 p.m. PT (reg. $199). No coupon is needed to get this price.

Microsoft Windows 11 Pro

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101 Small Business Ideas to Match Your Personality, Investment, Skills & Goals

Still stuck asking, “What business should I start?” You’re asking the wrong question.

Most entrepreneurs waste months chasing random business ideas that don’t fit their personality, skills, or lifestyle — then wonder why they burn out or get stuck.

But what if you could flip the script — and use AI to uncover 101 small business ideas that are custom-built for you?

In this video, I’ll show you exactly how to turn AI into your personal business strategist to:

• Unlock 101 personalized, profitable small business ideas tailored to your skills, personality, time, and income goals.

• Identify your top 3 business ideas that align with your values, energy, and long-term vision.

• Use AI-powered scenario modeling to simulate real-world results before you commit — eliminating guesswork and costly mistakes.

• Design a business that fits your life — not the other way around — with a custom 90-day AI game plan that includes your niche, monetization, automation tools, and ideal routine.

By the end, you won’t just have ideas — you’ll have clarity, focus, and a personalized roadmap to build a business that actually works for you.

If you’ve read The Wolf is at The Door or used my AI Starter Kit, you already know: The key to success isn’t random invention — it’s strategic reinvention, powered by AI.

Everything is broken down step-by-step — no tech skills required.

The AI Success Kit is available to download for free, along with a chapter from my new book, The Wolf is at The Door.

5 Things I Wish Someone Had Told Me Before I Became a CEO

From the outside, becoming a CEO can look like reaching the top of the mountain — a final, triumphant chapter after a long climb. But here’s the real story: It’s not the end. It’s a new beginning. One filled with curveballs, late-night worry sessions and more lessons than any business school could ever cram into a syllabus.

As CEO of BELFOR, the world’s largest property restoration company, I’ve had the incredible privilege (and, let’s be honest, the intense pressure) of helping grow our team from 19 people to more than 13,000 across the globe. That journey has taught me a lot — about leadership, about people and about what it really means to carry the weight of the word “CEO.”

So, if you’re stepping into leadership (or dreaming about the day you do), here are five things I wish someone had pulled me aside and told me sooner:

Related: 4 Critical Business Lessons I’ve Learned as a CEO

1. The pressure never lets up — and that’s not a bad thing

When your choices affect others, the pressure doesn’t take a day off. What surprised me most? How personal it gets. Being a leader isn’t just about strategy; it’s about heart. It’s about caring deeply. Sometimes too deeply. DDI reports that one in six leaders feel burned out in 2025. A study from Deloitte found that 41% of executives experience high stress, and 36% are completely exhausted.

Here’s the truth: Pressure comes with the job. And once I stopped trying to dodge it, I learned to carry it like a badge of honor. That pressure builds resilience. It grounds you. It reminds you that your work matters. If you’re looking for comfort, leadership may not be your path. But if you’re looking for meaning? Pressure just might be your compass.

2. The journey is more important than the destination

When I was starting out, I had my eyes locked on the next big goal: the promotion, the win, the title. I was so focused on climbing the ladder that I nearly missed what was happening on the ladder.

Leadership isn’t a finish line. It’s a road trip, complete with pit stops, scenic detours and the occasional flat tire. The best leaders I know aren’t obsessed with arriving; they’re dialed in to the ride. There’s a reason the windshield is wider than the rearview mirror. Sure, we glance back, but we move forward. Every challenge, every small win, every hard lesson shapes who we become.

So, if you’re feeling behind or unsure, remember this: Done is done. Keep growing. Keep moving. Be the CEO of your own life — the Cheerleader, Enthusiast and Optimist who sees potential, even on the tough days.

Related: 3 Reasons Why ‘The Journey Is the Reward’

3. Lead by doing, not just by deciding

I’ll never forget my time on Undercover Boss. Working shoulder-to-shoulder with our team — cleaning, lifting, listening — changed the way I think about leadership. It wasn’t just eye-opening. It was heart-opening.

At BELFOR, we don’t print titles on our business cards. Why? Because when someone needs help, it doesn’t matter what your title is. It matters what you do. Real leadership isn’t about barking orders from a corner office. It’s about showing up. Rolling up your sleeves. Listening twice as much as you talk (there’s a reason we’ve got two ears and one mouth) and leading by example.

A Harvard Business Review study backs this up: Leaders who match actions to words build trust. And I’ll add this — they also build family. Everyone on your team has a story. A struggle. A spark. When you lead with trust, compassion and listening, you light the path for others to lead, too.

4. Trust is your most powerful tool

CEO life can be overwhelming. So, here’s the lifeline: You don’t have to do it alone.

Some of my best decisions started with someone else’s idea. That’s the power of trust. When you believe in your team and show it, you unlock something extraordinary. Delegating isn’t giving up control. It’s sharing belief. It’s letting people know, “I see what you can do. Go for it.”

A culture built on trust creates a ripple effect: more engagement, more ownership, more magic. When your team feels trusted, they rise — not just to the occasion, but beyond it. One person CAN make a difference. Sometimes, that one person is the one you empowered.

Related: Strong Leaders Use These 4 Strategies to Build Trust in Their Workplace

5. Vulnerability isn’t weakness — it’s strength

Somewhere along the line, we picked up this idea that strong leaders are tough, silent, unshakeable. I say this with all my heart: Let that go. The most powerful moments in my career have come when I let down the walls. When I asked for help. When I cried. When I let people see the real Sheldon — flaws, fears and all.

We spend most of our lives at work. If we can’t be ourselves there, where can we? Vulnerability doesn’t make you soft. It makes you human. And humanity is the heartbeat of leadership.

When your team sees that you’re not perfect — but you care deeply, try hard and show up anyway, they feel safe to do the same. That’s where trust begins. That’s where innovation is born. That’s where everybody’s little hero within them comes out.

If I could hop in a time machine and talk to my younger self, stepping into that CEO seat for the first time, I’d say this: “The title doesn’t make you a leader. Your actions do. You’re going to mess up. You’re going to feel overwhelmed. But if you stay rooted in empathy and passion; look at, walk with, feel and live compassion; believe in and trust your people; and keep your eyes on the road ahead … you won’t just grow. You’ll lead with purpose, with passion and with heart.”

Because leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about walking with your team while you guide, follow and truly care for each and every member of the family you’re now honored to be part of. Together.

How to Build a Side Hustle That Stands on Its Own — Without Burning Out

Almost half of the U.S. workforce now juggles a side hustle alongside their day job. But starting one isn’t as simple as it sounds — especially when time and money are tight. The biggest challenge? Figuring out how to build a recognizable brand and generate steady cash flow without sacrificing your sanity.

If you want a side hustle that not only survives but thrives, you need a clear plan that plays to your strengths, solves real problems and grows steadily without overcomplicating things. Here’s a practical step-by-step guide to help you get there.

Related: 50 Side Hustle Ideas to Make Extra Money in 2025

Identify the problems your skills can solve

Your side hustle shouldn’t just be about what you like doing. It has to solve urgent problems that people are actively searching solutions for — and are willing to pay to fix. Start by honestly assessing your talents and how they can help others quickly and efficiently.

For example, if you’re skilled in accounting, don’t try to offer every possible service under the sun. Instead, focus on the three most common financial headaches your ideal customers face — maybe expense tracking, invoicing or monthly reporting. Develop simple, repeatable processes for each that deliver reliable results every time.

The key is to think like your customer: what problems do they want solved fast? What kind of solution would they find clear, trustworthy and easy to use? Focus on delivering exactly that — nothing more, nothing less.

Build a brand that’s simple, trustworthy and self-sustaining

Once you’ve defined your core services, package them clearly. Give each service a straightforward name that sticks in the mind without sounding gimmicky. Then develop a clear promise — a specific guarantee about the results customers can expect.

But remember: your brand is more than a logo or a website. It’s the full experience you provide, from first contact to finished service. That means consistent quality, clear communication and processes designed around your customers’ needs.

Keep your operations simple so your side hustle can run smoothly even when you’re not hands-on every minute. This consistency builds trust and helps your brand stand out as reliable and professional.

Resist the urge to expand too quickly

It’s tempting to chase every opportunity once your side hustle starts gaining traction. But adding new services or clients too fast can stretch your time thin and hurt the quality your customers expect.

Remember, your side hustle’s strength lies in its focus and consistency. Stick to your core services and deliver them exceptionally well. This approach not only protects your time but also creates strong word-of-mouth referrals — your most valuable marketing tool.

Expand only when you have the capacity and systems to maintain the same quality your customers trust.

Related: From Side Gig to 6-Figure Success — How I Built a Thriving Home-Based Business as a Busy Family Man

Stay consistent — that’s how growth happens

Consistency is your most powerful growth strategy. When your processes and results are predictable and dependable, your reputation spreads naturally.

If your workload grows, consider bringing in help — but only if the new team members add clear value or save you significant time. Think virtual assistants, freelancers or part-time help who can plug into your existing model without adding complexity.

Keep refining your core services and customer experience. This steady, consistent growth builds a sustainable side hustle that can one day become a full-time business — but on your terms.

Final thoughts

A side hustle doesn’t have to be overwhelming or chaotic. By focusing on solving real problems with simple, repeatable processes and maintaining a trustworthy, consistent brand, you can build something that lasts.

Avoid the common pitfalls of over-expansion and time overload by keeping your offerings focused and your operations lean. When the time is right, growth will come — and so will profitability.

With the right approach, your side hustle can stand strong, generate steady income, and maybe even become your next big success.

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How to Build Financial Flexibility That Lets You Seize Opportunities That Other Businesses Miss

Most business leaders have a story about a great opportunity that slipped away. Maybe it was an acquisition that fell through or a major client that signed with a competitor instead. Or a promising market expansion that had to be postponed due to “poor timing.”

During the post-mortem, it’s easy to blame sales, marketing or a lack of resources. But often, the core issue isn’t execution — it’s liquidity. Not a lack of capital but a lack of access to it when it matters most.

In today’s environment, timing is everything. The difference between winning and waiting can be measured in hours, not months. And the companies that come out ahead are often the ones whose capital stack can move at the speed of business.

Related: The Hidden Risk That Crashes Startups — Even the Profitable Ones

Liquidity, not just capital, drives growth

Imagine a competitor stumbles, and one of their top clients is suddenly up for grabs. You’re the right fit, and the client is ready to move, but only if you can scale quickly. That could mean hiring new staff, securing inventory or ramping production before the first payment clears.

This is when your capital stack either works for you or gets in your way. Many mid-sized businesses don’t lack capital — they just can’t access it quickly enough to take action.

And while they wait for accounts receivable to clear or a loan approval to be processed, the deal goes to a competitor who’s ready to act now.

Why “cash on hand” is the wrong metric

It’s easy to feel prepared if your cash reserves look healthy. But in fast-moving markets, the real question is this: How quickly can you turn your company’s assets, receivables or credit into usable funds? True financial flexibility isn’t about stockpiling cash — it’s about building a system that keeps money flowing. That includes:

• Reliable credit lines

• Faster payment collection

• Smarter inventory management

• Vendor terms that free up working capital

These are the building blocks of a capital stack that can support growth during good times and periods of uncertainty. Companies with these systems don’t just survive challenging business environments — they thrive in them. They grow their market share, attract new talent and invest in opportunities while competitors struggle to meet payroll.

Related: 4 Ways an Entrepreneur Can Increase Liquidity

When timing beats planning

Even strong companies miss growth opportunities, and it’s not always because their strategy is wrong. Instead, it’s usually because their timing is off. Picture a key customer doubling their order with little warning. The vendor that wins that business might not be the cheapest or the most well-known, but the one that can say “yes” right away and follow through.

The same principle applies during economic downturns. While some companies pull back, others are buying distressed assets, hiring top talent and preparing for the rebound. The edge isn’t in their forecasts but in their ability to move. Speed is often more valuable than size, and the companies that win are often the ones with financial systems built for action.

Inflexible capital doesn’t just slow you down, it also chips away at your growth over time. You may pass on projects with high returns because the cash isn’t available when needed. You may consider taking out a short-term loan with unfavorable terms to meet payroll. Or you may delay hiring because receivables are stuck in limbo.

Individually, these decisions seem small, but collectively, they slow your progress and put unnecessary stress on your team. And while these missed chances don’t show up on a balance sheet, they’re often the reason promising companies fall behind.

How to build a capital stack that can move

Smart operators don’t see capital as something to sit idle — they build systems that allow it to move with the needs of the business. A key piece of that is understanding your cash conversion cycle, which is the time it takes for a dollar spent to return to your account. The shorter and smoother the cycle is, the more responsive your business becomes.

Here are some practical ways to improve it:

• Send invoices quickly and enforce payment terms

• Keep inventory lean without hurting service levels

• Renegotiate supplier terms to match your cash flow

• Secure credit facilities before you need them

Related: 5 Top Financial Tips for Entrepreneurs

It’s not about preparing for a worst-case scenario but being able to act when the best-case scenario shows up unexpectedly.

When your capital system is built for flexibility, your decision-making process changes. You don’t put off action because of delayed payments, and you don’t lose sleep over a tight cash balance. You don’t say “no” to a great opportunity just because your funds are temporarily tied up.

Instead, you move with confidence and negotiate from a place of strength. And your team has the clarity and support to focus on execution, not firefighting. Companies with flexible capital move faster, stay focused and seize opportunities others miss.

The Professional Breakup — How to Oust a Co-founder Legally and Smoothly

Imagine this. Jean and John, who met at a startup incubator, founded a company together. But as they grew, Jean realized that she and John weren’t aligned on many things, including what the company’s future should look like. Neither John’s goals nor his behavior reflected the company’s mission, so Jean ousts John from the business.

Reasons for a co-founder’s departure

There are a number of reasons that a co-founder may want to part ways with another co-founder.

1. Lack of dedication

A startup that wants to scale for a big exit typically requires founders who dedicate long hours for little pay (at least at the beginning). While some founders, like Jean, are willing to do that, some, like John, are not. Jean was willing to put in as many hours as it took to meet her responsibilities. John, on the other hand, arrived late and left early, demonstrating that he wasn’t dedicated to his role — or the company.

2. Difficult to work with

Some founders are simply difficult to work with. They’re not collaborative, they’re closed off to others’ input or they belittle or micromanage their employees. While in the office, John’s attitude was one of superiority. He felt that certain tasks were below him and that others should do the “heavy lifting.” He criticized his employees at every opportunity, lowering morale and eventually pushing a very dedicated, key employee out of the company.

3. Lack of alignment with vision

While a dream team of co-founders might be committed and great as colleagues, they might have different visions about the company’s future. For example, they may disagree on a pivot other founders believe is necessary. Jean wanted to focus on R&D to ensure ongoing innovation, but John was focused on expanding the company. In addition to his behavior, this lack of alignment caused so much tension that Jean started the process of terminating her co-founder.

Related: So Your Co-Founder is Threatening to Quit Unless You Give Them More Equity. What Should You Do?

Legal considerations

In addition to mistakes that can be made during the termination process, there are several legal considerations to keep in mind when co-founders separate.

1. Complying with employment law

Founders are almost always employees by law. When terminating an employee, keep in mind — and meet — the legalities of termination, including filing certain paperwork and notices, and meeting deadlines for paying the final paycheck, for example. When the tension between Jean and John began, Jean documented each instance so she had relevant backup at the time of John’s termination.

2. Is your relationship buttoned up?

Make sure you are not giving an ousted co-founder leverage. Breaking promises or not protecting the company legally in its founding documents on IP assignments or confidentiality obligations means that they now have valuable IP the company needs.

3. Do you have the legal right?

It’s critical to ensure that a co-founder has the legal right to terminate another co-founder. If they do not, they should take the necessary steps to secure those rights; it might not be as simple as telling them they are fired. For example, the company’s bylaws might allow a co-founder to be terminated only if the board votes to do so. The ousting founders need to make sure they can — and do — get board support.

When John’s performance began to decline, Jean consulted with the company’s board to ensure the board was informed from the outset.

More legal considerations: What NOT to do

While there are considerations to make so as not to run into legal issues, there are also considerations for what NOT to do.

1. Don’t think about a separation agreement

A legally binding separation agreement can get you a release of claims, potentially non-disparagement terms and other benefits for the company, including agreements to not sue. Investors will want to see this if at all possible in diligence. It’s worth some money to get this.

As soon as John’s performance started suffering and other employees began complaining about his behavior, Jean consulted an employment attorney to prepare the paperwork necessary for a separation agreement, enabling the process to be completed without worrying about a potential lawsuit.

2. Forget to cut off access to systems

To prevent an ousted co-founder from accessing company information post-termination, ensure that they can no longer access the company’s systems. Disgruntled employees with access to company data can cause major problems.

Once John was officially “out,” all access to company information was cut off; Jean knew that, if given the opportunity, John would have tried to access certain data once he exited the company.

3. Bash the ousted founder to employees, investors and other stakeholders

Sometimes in trying to explain the ousted founder’s departure, founders will resort to speaking negatively about them; this opens the company to defamation liability. It can also reflect badly on the company and the founding terms. Finally, it can lead to the ousted founder becoming more hostile toward the company.

Despite their differences, Jean maintained reasonable levels of professionalism. Although the process was stressful for her, her team and ultimately the company, John’s ouster and the reasons behind it remained within the executive leadership team.

Related: 4 Sane Strategies for Maintaining Healthy Co-Founder Relationships

Ramifications of skirting the law

All of this advice hinges on the remaining founders meeting the requirements to legally terminate a co-founder. When they don’t, there are ramifications.

1. Incurring penalties and legal claims

First, by not complying with employment laws, penalties can be incurred, and legal claims are given to the ousted founder; these can add up. For example, in California, if all wages aren’t paid on the final day of employment, the ousted founder is entitled to a penalty equal to one full day of wages for every day until they are fully paid (up to 30 days).

Jean’s diligence in consulting a startup attorney prepared her for the separation. In addition to the separation agreement, Jean presented John with his final paycheck at the termination meeting.

2. Post-termination negotiations

If you don’t button up your relationship with the founder prior to termination, you will be stuck post-termination negotiating for what you need. At this point, you are unlikely to have much leverage.

3. No separation agreement

If you fail to get a separation agreement, investors may push on you in diligence to get one later; this is often difficult. Also, you may subject the company to claims that would have been released if money was offered as severance at the outset. Note that a founder may sign a separation agreement quickly if it’s offered with a positive message and incentives. The absence of an up-front offer can result in litigation, and demands may increase.

The bottom line

While there are myriad factors that contribute to the ousting of a company founder, it behooves those on the company side to make appropriate preparations to avoid legal troubles.

Ready to break through your revenue ceiling? Join us at Level Up, a conference for ambitious business leaders to unlock new growth opportunities.

Want to Own a Franchise? This 3-Tier Approach Can Help You Choose Wisely.

Here’s a common myth: There is one “right” franchise for aspiring franchise owners. As a franchise consultant who has been in the game for more than eight years, one of the most important things I’ve learned about matching the “right” candidate with the “right” franchise is that there’s no surefire equation for guaranteed success at a specific brand or concept.

Sometimes a candidate that fits a certain brand in every single statistical category will reject a concept outright. Sometimes a candidate who is hellbent on a certain brand simply doesn’t have the necessary criteria to take on the investment. This tricky balancing act is where I come in and find solutions for candidates and I’ve found that it’s one of the most rewarding and compelling parts of my job.

So instead of trying to find the magic unicorn franchise to match an individual, I flip the script. It’s more art than science. I focus on the individual first. I have found that there are three tiers that largely determine successful franchise/franchisee businesses.

Related: Considering franchise ownership? Get started now to find your personalized list of franchises that match your lifestyle, interests and budget.

Tier 1: Hard objectives

Hard objectives are those absolute, no exception, gotta-have-it requirements. The most important one: the franchise owner’s role in the business. Specifically, what will the owner be doing on a day-to-day basis, both at the offset and in the future. Will they be full-time? Part-time? Run day-to-day operations? Hire someone to run day-to-day operations?

The trajectory of this role will weigh heavily on the franchise brand or concept in question. This determines whether the franchisee can be self-employed (solo, professional and client-facing), an owner-operator (meaning the owner will have daily, direct involvement), an executive owner (daily, indirect involvement) or a semi-absentee owner (weekly, indirect involvement). Each of these models will rule out some franchises and include others.

More “hard objective” questions to consider include determining what the prospective franchisee qualifies for financially, which may differ from their actual budget. While financial qualification refers to what a lender or the franchisor believes the franchisee can afford, the budget reflects what the individual is personally willing or able to invest. These two numbers often align but are not always the same.

Additionally, it’s crucial to examine geographical territory availability. A candidate might be an ideal fit for a brand on paper, but if there’s no available territory in their preferred market, the opportunity may not be viable.

Related: Join top CEOs, founders and operators at the Level Up conference to unlock strategies for scaling your business, boosting revenue and building sustainable success.

Tier 2: Intangibles

Now for the “art” versus science. This second layer of criteria breaks into the franchise owner’s characteristics, experience and personality. There are a few important categories within this tier.

Skills and Experience: What is the professional background of the franchise owner? Do they have experience in sales? Accounting? IT? Matching up the skillsets with the role of the owner within that franchise makes a world of difference.

Another intangible is their family situation. What kind of time commitments could take time from the business? Maybe a prospective franchisee has six kids and the weekends are jammed with activities.

Many of the effects of business ownership on life are positive — autonomy, flexibility, financial security, purpose — but it’s important for a business owner to understand that this venture will not replace a traditional 9 to 5. There will be weekend and evening calls, emergencies and urgent needs that demand immediate attention. Your personal and professional lives will intertwine. You will have more flexibility, but also more responsibility.

Current Job Flexibility: Does the role a franchisee is currently in allow for a business call in the middle of the day? I get the question all the time: can I own a franchise and keep my day job? Ultimately, it depends on your day job. There’s no such thing as a truly absentee franchise owner, especially in the beginning. A franchise, like any new business, is a lot of work. Realistically, a franchisee needs to have time flexibility to be able to manage this new business venture.

Related: She Was a Lawyer with No Restaurant Experience. Now, She’s Reviving an Iconic Restaurant Chain.

Tier 3: Esoteric Things

Last on the list are esoteric things that make a surprisingly strong impact on a franchisee’s motivation and ability to get behind a franchise concept or brand. These things include (but are not limited to):

Cultural Fit: How the franchisee feels about the franchisor. Do they agree with their core values and principals? Do their communication styles mesh? You should think of a franchisor as your business partner.

English as a second language: This can be a tricky one. Depending on the business concept, it may be important for a business owner to have fluency, while other businesses do not require this.

“Ick factors.” I’ve worked with a lot of franchisees over the years and sometimes there are simply objections based on “ick factors.” For example, sometimes people just can’t get behind dirty everyday essential businesses, no matter how well that model may fit with their other criteria. (Other frequent push back comes from things like pet care, child care, senior care, etc.)

Typically, I ask people to rank these things to evaluate their experience/skills, interest, and aptitude. From here, I can find franchises that support the areas you may not be as strong in and bolster the areas where you thrive.

At the end of the day, these tiers are not exclusive in determining a franchise fit. However, in my experience, more often than not, these tiers work as a framework to help franchise candidates make well-informed decisions based on realistic and honest reflection about their opportunities.

Remote: Here’s What the ‘One, Big, Beautiful Bill’ Means for the Franchise Industry

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Small Business Credit Is Tightening — Here’s How to Prepare for What’s Ahead

Many small and mid-sized business (SMB) owners entered 2025 with high hopes: a stronger economy, falling interest rates and easier access to credit. But just a few months in, the landscape looks more complicated. New data shows a dip in optimism and a rise in uncertainty among SMBs — alongside signs that banks are starting to tighten lending standards.

If you’re a business owner, now is the time to prepare. Here’s what’s happening — and how to position your company for success in a shifting credit environment.

Related: Thinking of Using a Personal Loan for Your Business? Here’s Everything You Need to Consider.

Optimism is slipping, uncertainty is rising

According to the National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB), the Small Business Optimism Index dropped 2.3 points in January 2025 to 102.8. While still above the long-term average of 98, it’s a notable shift. Even more striking: the NFIB Uncertainty Index jumped 14 points to 100 — its third-highest reading ever.

While one month of data doesn’t signal a crisis, it could indicate that small businesses are hitting unexpected turbulence. The NFIB found fewer owners plan to make capital outlays in the next six months, with numbers falling from 27% in December to 20% in January.

What’s behind the dip in confidence? Inflation and labor quality were tied as the top operational concerns, each cited by 18% of respondents. Meanwhile, only 17% said now is a good time to expand — a three-point drop from the previous month.

For SMBs hoping to borrow in 2025, these trends suggest a more cautious outlook, not just among business owners but among the lenders they rely on.

A new credit squeeze may be forming

The Federal Reserve’s January 2025 Senior Loan Officer Opinion Survey (SLOOS) reveals that banks are beginning to tighten credit standards for small business borrowers, especially those with lower credit scores.

Here’s what the data showed from Q4 2024:

• 14.3% of banks tightened credit standards for SMB loans
• 13.1% increased premiums for higher-risk SMB borrowers
• 11.9% are using more interest rate floors for small business loans

Why the shift? A majority of banks cited a more uncertain economic outlook (68.4%), industry-specific concerns (63.2%), and reduced risk tolerance (55%) as reasons for tightening standards.

In short, banks are seeing what SMBs are feeling — more risk, less clarity and a need to protect their own exposure. For business owners with weaker credit profiles or limited borrowing history, this could translate into fewer options and tougher terms.

How to navigate a tougher lending environment

This might not be a long-term crisis, but smart SMBs are already getting ahead of it. Whether you’re planning a major investment or simply want to preserve access to working capital, now is the time to strengthen your financial position and explore all your financing options.

Here are four ways to prepare:

1. Tighten operations and strengthen your balance sheet.
   Look for ways to boost profitability, cut costs, and improve cash flow. The stronger your financials, the better your chances of qualifying for credit if lending tightens further.

2. Secure financing before you need it.
   It’s better to borrow on your terms, not out of necessity. Maintain your credit lines, build relationships with lenders, and take advantage of favorable conditions while they last.

3. Don’t count on rate cuts.
   As of April 2025, the Fed hasn’t moved to lower rates, and long-term yields remain stubbornly high. If you’re hoping to refinance or secure lower-cost credit, don’t assume it’s just around the corner.

4. Think beyond traditional banks.
   If banks are saying no — or offering unattractive terms — look to non-bank lenders, fintechs, and asset-based financing. These providers may be more flexible and better suited to your business model.

Related: The 7 Different Loans You Can Get as a Business Owner

Final thoughts

There’s no need to panic, but there is a clear need to plan. Credit conditions are shifting. Optimism is softening. And banks are proceeding with caution.

The good news? You can too, without missing growth opportunities. The SMBs that succeed in uncertain times are the ones that stay adaptable, explore diverse financing strategies and act before challenges become urgent.

In my experience, non-bank lenders who understand the realities of running a business offer the kind of flexibility, speed and partnership that help companies thrive, no matter what the economy does next.

4 Keyword Mistakes That Are Killing Your SEO — and What to Do Instead

If your content isn’t showing up on Google, your keyword strategy might be to blame. It’s not that you’re not using keywords — it’s that you’re probably using them wrong.

Keyword optimization is one of the most misunderstood areas of SEO. When done right, it gets your content found by the right people at the right time. When done wrong, it can bury your site under a pile of irrelevant search results. Here are the four most common keyword mistakes — and how to avoid them.

1. Stop keyword stuffing — it hurts both rankings and readability

One of the biggest mistakes in SEO is cramming your target keyword into your content over and over again. It’s an outdated tactic that Google’s algorithm now penalizes. Repeating keywords too often can make your writing feel robotic, repetitive and unpleasant to read — which turns off both readers and search engines.

Instead, aim for natural language and smart keyword placement. Use your primary keyword in the title, first 100 words, one subhead and the meta description. Then support it with synonyms and related phrases that help Google understand your content contextually.

Tip: Focus on writing high-quality, engaging content that actually answers your audience’s questions. Google rewards helpfulness, not repetition.

Related: How AI Is Transforming Keyword Research (and Why You Can’t Afford to Ignore It)

2. Use headings strategically to boost skimmability and SEO

Headings do more than break up your content — they signal to Google what your page is about. But if every H2 is a thinly disguised version of your keyword, it can hurt your rankings and confuse readers.

Here’s a better approach:

• Put your main keyword in the H1 (page title).
• Use H2s to introduce subtopics with related or supporting terms.
• Make sure your headings are useful to human readers, not just search bots.

Think of headings like road signs — they should guide the reader through your content while reinforcing the overall topic to search engines.

3. Optimize for how people actually search

Search behavior has changed. People no longer search using robotic phrases like “pest control service NYC.” Instead, they ask full questions like, “What’s the best way to get rid of roaches in a Brooklyn apartment?”

This shift means Google now ranks based on user intent, not just keywords.

To win search results:

• Use tools like AnswerThePublic to find real questions your audience is typing.
• Match your content to search intent: Are they looking for a quick answer, an in-depth guide, or a product to buy?

Bonus: Intent-based search helps you compete at the local level, where trust and proximity matter more than having the biggest site.

Related: From Zero to Hero — How to Build an SEO Strategy From Scratch

4. Use AI to find long-tail opportunities others miss

Thanks to natural language processing (NLP), AI-powered search engines like Google now understand meaning, not just exact phrases. This opens a powerful opportunity for businesses: target longer, more specific queries that sound like real conversations.

For example, instead of optimizing for “best running shoes,” aim for:
“What running shoes are best for flat feet and knee pain?”

Use tools like Semrush or ChatGPT to:

• Discover trending long-tail phrases
• Analyze top-performing competitor content
• Identify question-based keywords and semantic variations

AI-driven keyword research helps you stay ahead by focusing on what users really want — not just what they type.

Final takeaway

Keywords are still foundational to SEO — but how you use them has evolved. Avoid outdated tactics like stuffing and copy-pasting the same phrase in every heading. Focus instead on understanding search intent, writing for humans, and using AI to find high-value opportunities.

Get those pieces right, and your content won’t just rank — it will resonate.

Starbucks Is Offering Executives $6 Million Performance-Based Stock Grants

Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol has been on a mission to turn around the coffeehouse’s lagging sales through a variety of measures, from dress codes to menu changes. Now, the company is offering executives massive stock grants if they can help make it happen.

The stock grants have a $6 million target value, Bloomberg reports, and are based on performance. In a regulatory filing on Wednesday, Starbucks said the restricted stock units are eligible to vest after the company’s 2027 fiscal year, or in late September 2027.

Related: Starbucks Is Hiring a ‘Global Content Creator’ to Travel, Drink Coffee, and Get Paid Six Figures

Niccol’s wants his “Back to Starbucks” plan enacted “as quickly as possible,” the filing says.

The company is also hiring 3,000 more baristas as part of Niccol’s plan to improve sales after five consecutive quarters of declines. Starbucks reported in May that same-store sales dropped 1% in the first quarter of 2025, falling short of Wall Street expectations.

The awards “include a goal of meaningfully reducing operating expenses to support continued investment in the in-store experience,” the filing says, per Bloomberg.

Related: Starbucks Is Hiring In-Store Human Workers After Replacing People With Machines — and Finding It Didn’t Work

I Take 75 Business Trips a Year — These 10 Tips Save Me Time, Money and Sanity

For the past couple of decades, I’ve traveled 60-75 times a year—mostly for public speaking, client visits and occasionally vacation. My trips are mostly independent and domestic, with Vegas, Orlando and New Orleans topping the list. My goal? Get it done as fast and affordably as possible. Eyes down, earbuds in, mouth shut, mind your own business — especially on business trips.

If you’re a frequent business traveler like me, here are 10 lessons I’ve learned to make travel easier, cheaper and less painful:

1. Lean into loyalty

Even if you only travel a few times a year for business, it’s critical that you join the loyalty program of the airline that most frequents your local airport, as well as one hotel and one rental car brand program. There are some cases where you may pay a little more. There are other cases where you might not get the best flight or location. But you’ll make up for these potential inconveniences by building up points which can then be converted into free rooms, flights and car rentals, and the payback will be greater than what you paid. Some loyalty programs offer other rewards, such as discounts on partner brands, which will save you more.

Also, as your status rises, you’ll get free upgrades, better seating and baggage allowances without fees and — to me, most importantly — special attention like fast re-booking when things go wrong. Lean into these loyalty programs, eat the dog food and over the long term, you’ll benefit both from cost and productivity.

Related: Here’s How Entrepreneurs Can Save on Business Trips

2. Avoid airline and hotel travel cards

Airline and hotel credit cards aren’t worth it. Sure, it can seem enticing when they offer lots of miles upfront for signing up or expedited boarding. But the interest rates and fees on these cards will, over the long term, be higher (in my experience) than those of their competitors. Also, you’re limited to only choosing flights and hotels with that brand, which significantly limits your choice of available flights, and you’ll be blacked out during high-volume periods.

If you’re a business traveler, choose a card that’s tied to an independent travel service. I’ve enjoyed the Citibank Thank You program for years because I accumulate points both for my business and personal cards, am able to combine those cards, and then can convert those points into travel with their agency that books on just about any airline or hotel I choose. Another trick: I’ll stay at Marriott (my preferred hotel loyalty brand), charge everything to the room, including meals and drinks, get points for the hotel and then pay the bill with my Citibank card so I earn points on the card as well — double dipping. Double the benefits.

3. Subscribe to a travel newsletter

There are a few great travel newsletters that you can search and subscribe to (I like The Points Guy), which can help you figure out the best travel and let you know quickly when there are programs or special deals launched. Like grocery coupons, some people go crazy with this stuff, and yes, they do save money (although I’m not sure how much time they’re spending in return for the benefit). Regardless of how much you lean into these services, they’re helpful to keep you aware of potential discounts that, if the timing’s right, can save you money that you weren’t expecting to save.

4. Do not wait in rental car lines

Thank God we don’t live in the days of our parents, when renting a car required sixteen forms of identification and a strip search. Some of the better rental agencies (I like National Car Rental) let loyal users bypass the check-in process, go straight to the garage, jump into a car and then drive away by just showing their driver’s license. And on return, you get out and go. I find this experience to be cost-efficient, productive and frankly, exhilarating. It’s all about time, and I pity those people standing in long lines waiting to be approved to drive.

5. Eat at chains

If you’re not a frequent traveler, eating out can be fun. But for the rest of those who travel many times a month, we need consistency and affordability. So when it comes to food, I generally stick to a chain restaurant. Unless I’m entertaining clients, which I rarely do, I’m happy to get a filet at Outback Steakhouse for $40 that includes fries and a salad rather than paying $125 for the same meal at the local steakhouse. Chain restaurants tend to be reliable, faster and more affordable than other restaurants. Other times, I avoid the $30 hotel burger and get Uber Eats delivered. You want to go local? Find a diner. Or otherwise stick to your hometown.

6. Use expense management apps

I’ve wasted countless hours doing expense reports over the years. But no more. Thanks to great (and inexpensive) expense management applications like Expensify, SAP Concur, Ramp, and Zoho Expense, business travelers can, just by snapping a photo, have their expense time sheets done with minimal involvement, which saves time and mistakes. I’ve got my car rental, airline, hotel and rideshare apps all connected to the service I use, and when I eat out or take a taxi, I upload a quick photo. When my trip is over, my expense report is done for me. If your business has a team of travelers, it’s a great way to manage their expenses and, after integrating the app with your accounting system, save a significant amount of back office time. Thanks AI!

7. Tip generously

Tipping doesn’t save you money. It’s just the right thing to do. Carry some cash and take care of the people who clean your rooms with $10 per day. Give the valet another $10. Never tip below 20% on a restaurant bill. And yes, add an extra buck to the $8 cup of coffee you bought in the casino lobby. It’s not their fault that the price is ridiculously high. And you can afford it. Tip more if you can.

8. Consider taxis for speed

Whenever I arrive at my home airport, I always block and tackle through the masses of people waiting for their rideshare and go straight to the taxi area, where there’s always a line of cabs waiting. I mostly do this in other cities, too. Generally, taxis still cost more than rideshares. And some of them aren’t as comfortable a ride. But it’s all about time, and whatever gets me to my home or my destination faster so I can finish with the travel experience is, to me, worth the added cost.

Related: A Business Owner’s Guide to Maximizing Summer Profits

9. Double down on your security

Don’t be stupid with your data when you travel. Don’t reveal your private work to the guy sitting next to you on your flight. Buy a laptop privacy screen, a piece of plastic that makes it impossible for anyone not directly in front of your screen to see what you’re doing. Make sure you use a VPN service to encrypt your data when on a hotel or airport Wi-Fi.

Better yet, don’t use the hotel or airport Wi-Fi and use your mobile hotspot whenever and wherever you can for the best security. Don’t do any banking or financial transactions when you’re on the road if you can avoid it. Bring an extra battery pack so that you don’t run out of power mid-trip when you need to get work done. And bring three separate power cords in your bag because these things fail (and so do you when you forget one in your room).

10. Roll your clothes

Checking a bag not only incurs extra charges but also extra time at the carousel. To avoid these fees and get on and off the plane (and in and out of the airport) as quickly as possible, my advice is to roll. Yes, roll. Roll as many of your non-wrinkle clothes (socks, underwear, shirts, etc) and align them in your carry-on bag, starting on the outside and working your way in. You’ll be shocked at how much more stuff you can fit in your bag that way. Make use of the hotel iron if needed.

20-plus years of travel. 60-plus separate trips per year. And I’m still not in the higher echelons of the business road warrior. Thank goodness. Regardless, this is what I’ve learned. You’re welcome.

I Built a 7-Figure Business with a Team I Had Never Met – Here’s What I Learned

I built a seven-figure business with a team I had never met in person.

Some may call my journey lucky. Others might credit hard work, consistency or timing. But for me, the answer is clear: I built it on four principles — trust, loyalty, appreciation and proactiveness. These values guided every major decision and helped shape the kind of company I wanted to run.

This isn’t a one-of-a-kind success story. But it is proof that your principles can shape your path. Let’s go back to the beginning.

Related: At Age 23, He Started a Side Hustle While on Welfare. It Led to a 7-Figure Business and a Stay on Richard Branson’s Private Island.

Making the decision to outsource

In 2013, I was deep in the trenches of my managed IT business in Boca Raton, Florida. We were overloaded. No matter how hard my small team worked, we were constantly behind. One project would wrap, and two more would surface.

My team was burned out — and so was I. Hiring more staff seemed like the obvious answer, but we didn’t have the capacity or budget for it. So I started looking elsewhere.

What I found wasn’t in a typical how-to blog or playbook. It was outsourcing — at the time, still relatively new in the small business world. Global IT outsourcing was just gaining traction, with worldwide spending estimated at $937 billion.

But to me, outsourcing offered exactly what we needed:

• Relief for my team
• Operational efficiency
• Scalable growth at a manageable cost

So, armed with research and anchored by my core four, I hired my first outsourced contractor, Charlie.

Building an outsourced team from scratch

I went in with low expectations. I wasn’t sure how time zones or cultural differences would affect the quality of work. But Charlie quickly proved himself, outperforming some of my in-house employees.

Impressed, I asked him if he had friends or family with a similar mindset. One introduction led to another, and before long, my remote team was growing.

If you’re hiring your first remote teammate, start small and think smart. Look for a reputable BPO (business process outsourcing) provider or virtual assistant agency with pre-vetted candidates. Here’s what to evaluate:

• Availability – Will they work during your key business hours?
• Skills – Do they have the technical and soft skills required? (Some providers even help you find specialists like engineers, intake coordinators, or sales reps.)
• Cost – Are their rates competitive for your market and size?
• Scalability – Can they grow with you? Ask for case studies or references.
• Security – Do they offer secure, cloud-based environments and meet standards like ISO, SOC 2, or HIPAA?

Start with a small, low-risk task. Conduct a brief video interview, ask real-world scenario questions, and prioritize communication skills alongside technical ability. Some of your best future hires may come through internal referrals, just like Charlie did for me.

Related: How I Built a 7-Figure Business in Less Than 8 Months by Making This Simple But Powerful Shift

Navigating the inevitable challenges

Outsourcing isn’t a magic wand. You’ll face friction, especially early on. Here’s how to navigate it:

• Over-communicate – Remote teams don’t have the luxury of hallway chats. Be clear, concise and consistent with expectations.
• Acknowledge cultural differences – Respect local holidays, time zones, and work-life balance. Empathy builds loyalty.
• Encourage and implement feedback – Your remote team is your backbone. Ask for their input — and act on it when it improves operations.

Not every hire will be a fit. That’s okay. What matters is your commitment to getting the right people, not just any people.

The core four that built my business

At the heart of all this are the same four values that helped me build a sustainable, remote-first company:

Trust

Start by setting clear expectations. Use tools like Trello, ClickUp, or Asana. Let people own their work early on — don’t micromanage.

That early team of five, built on referrals and trust, became the foundation for what eventually became my company, Remote CoWorker.

Loyalty

It’s built through consistency, feedback and respect. Nearly all of the original team still works with me today, except for one member who sadly passed away.

Appreciation

A thank-you message. A surprise bonus. A Slack shout-out. It doesn’t have to be extravagant — it just has to be genuine.

Proactiveness

Don’t wait for chaos to build systems. Create onboarding documents, training videos and feedback loops before you need them. Invite your team to improve processes — they often see things you don’t.

Culture isn’t written on a wall. It’s modeled by leadership. Every interaction is a chance to reinforce your values.

It’s your turn

Back in 2013, IT outsourcing was a $937 billion market. In 2025, it’s valued at over $1.5 trillion, with projections to nearly double by 2034. If I hadn’t leaned into my core four, I might have missed that opportunity entirely.

If you’re overwhelmed and ready to grow, outsourcing might be your next move. Start with one repetitive task. Document it. Delegate it. Then test, refine, and scale from there.

Use tools like Loom for training, Slack for communication and Notion for documentation. You don’t have to build your team overnight — just start by replacing one seat with someone who’s reliable and aligned with your values.

But remember: results start with expectations. Don’t overload your VA with work you wouldn’t do yourself. Keep the scope realistic and the communication open. That’s how trust forms — and growth follows.

Join top CEOs, founders and operators at the Level Up conference to unlock strategies for scaling your business, boosting revenue and building sustainable success.