Shows
Lazy LeverageWhy Your AI and Automation Projects Keep Failing (And How to Actually Make Them Work) | Lazy Leverage #66Jon sits down with Brian Wilson, a retired Marine Corps Major who now heads Sagan's Knowledge and Automation group, to break down why most business owners are terrible at implementing AI and automation (and it's not for the reasons you might think).
Right off the bat, Brian gives us a reality check: most people creating content about AI and automation have never actually turned wrenches in a real business. They're content experts, not practitioners. He shares stories from live training sessions where it takes 23 minutes just to get someone to admit what their actual problem is, because...2025-07-2443 minLazy LeverageThe Reality of Small Business Litigation: Defense, Offense, and Everything In Between | Lazy Leverage #65Jon and Peter tackle one of the most stressful parts of running a business that nobody talks about: getting sued. Or threatened with lawsuits. Or dealing with angry lawyers sending nasty letters demanding ridiculous amounts of money.
It happens to almost every business owner, but nobody shares war stories because of shame, legal settlements with gag clauses, and the general awkwardness of admitting you're in legal hot water. Jon and Peter break that silence with practical advice from the trenches.
They cover how to tell the difference between someone who's actually dangerous (rich people who...2025-07-221h 07Lazy LeverageDon’t Just Solve the Problem - Solve It Forever | Lazy Leverage #64Peter unpacks what he learned from taking a full month off (his fourth annual sabbatical) including what worked, what didn’t, and how stepping back clarified his relationship with work, team leadership, and systems.
Spoiler: nothing broke. The business ran just fine. And that’s the point.
Jon and Peter dive into how structured time off isn’t just a luxury - it’s a leadership test. It exposes whether your team and systems are truly ready to stand without you. But it also creates clarity: Over time, through his yearly retreats, Peter rediscovered the joy of m...2025-07-1747 minLazy LeverageLooking Beyond VAs: Building Leaders, Not Just Task-Doers | Lazy Leverage #63Hiring a VA is easy. Turning them into a leader? That’s where most founders stall out. Jon and Binsi unpack how to stop recycling task-doers and start developing talent, explaining why reframing roles is the first step toward long-term leverage.
Jon breaks down the difference between delegation and development, while Binsi - Sagan’s newly minted managing director - shares firsthand what it looks like to grow from an assistant role into real leadership.
Together, they walk through the cultural, structural, and emotional shifts that separate low-autonomy task-doers from high-impact operators. They explore why titl...2025-07-0334 minLazy LeverageArchitecting Work: The Blueprint for Scale, Sanity, and Leverage | Lazy Leverage #62Jon and Peter explore a deceptively simple but powerful concept: architecting how work gets done. Inspired by Profit Coach and shaped through years of trial and error, it’s more than systems and tools - it’s about intentionally designing workflows that enable scale, accountability, and freedom.
They start by defining what “done” looks like, then dive into tools like swimlane diagrams, task maps, and online forms - essential for hiring, training, delegation, and AI. Leverage doesn’t begin with tech - it starts with basics, like removing your phone number from the website so work flows through sy...2025-06-1942 minLazy LeverageThe 4-Level System That Lets You Take a Month Off Every Year | Lazy Leverage #61While a ton of business owners today are chasing the next AI hack or automation craze, Jon and Peter return to a foundational truth: leverage isn’t a tactic - it’s a philosophy.
Today they’re talking about “Matt’s Hierarchy of Leverage,” a napkin-sketch turned mental model that redefines how small business owners should think about time, talent, and tools. Rather than obsessing over AI for AI’s sake, they explore leverage as a quiet system of compounding returns: replacing complexity with clarity, chaos with delegation, and brute effort with thoughtful structure.
At its core, the...2025-05-2855 minLazy LeverageTrust at Scale: How Content Compounds When You Do It Right | Lazy Leverage #60In a time where brands everywhere churn out content for clout, Jon and Peter make the case that there is power in focusing on niche over noise.
They talk about the difference between running a media business—one dependent on clicks, views, and CPMs—and running a business powered by media. The latter isn’t chasing virality. It’s using content to build trust at scale, with the right audience. A single engaged viewer—one potential customer who finds real value—can be more powerful than 50 million passive scrolls.
This mindset reframes media from a vanity metri...2025-05-2248 minLazy LeverageThe Hidden Power of Low Leverage (And How to Use It Strategically) | Lazy Leverage #59In an age obsessed with scale, speed, and leverage, it’s easy to forget that the best long-term advantage might come from doing the exact opposite.
Call it the "Low Leverage Advantage."
When you're early in your career—or launching something new—there’s a strong case for diving into the work yourself. Not delegating. Not automating. Just doing. Need to onboard a new sales team? Write the first 20 cold DMs yourself. Building a new ops process? Sit next to the team member buried in outdated workflows and fix it together.
Why? Because high lev...2025-05-1658 minLazy LeverageWhy Your Business Problems Are Actually Leadership Problems (And How to Fix Them) | Lazy Leverage #58Most small business owners think leadership is instinctual—something you figure out once you’re “in charge”. But if your managers act like friends, choke on tough conversations, or drown their teams in bureaucracy—you've got a leadership gap that’s preventing you from taking your company to the next level..
Today, Jon and Peter break down why leadership is taught, not caught. Their message is simple: great companies don't just promote top performers and hope for the best. They train leaders the moment they’re knighted into management—and they make the expectations painfully clear.
It’s not enou...2025-05-0544 minLazy LeverageWhy “Just Slack Me” Doesn’t Work Globally (and What to Do Instead) | Lazy Leverage #57Most business owners don’t think they have a “culture problem.” But if your team misses deadlines, seems afraid to speak up, or quits without notice—you’ve got one.
This isn’t a vibes issue. It’s a systemic one. Today Jon sits down with Sagan’s Head of Product, Binsi Das, to break down the hidden culture traps that derail global teams.
Here’s what’s happening: you’ve built a company with an egalitarian mindset—flat structure, open feedback loops, lots of autonomy. But half your team comes from hierarchical, low-context cultures. In many of these countri...2025-04-2544 minLazy LeverageWhy Notebook LM Might Be the Sleeper AI Tool of the Year | Lazy Leverage #56Google quietly dropped an AI tool that could replace half your tech stack.
Its name? NotebookLM.
Think ChatGPT, but with deep integration into your documents and a smarter memory. You can feed it PDFs, YouTube transcripts, Google Docs, or even random web pages. From there, it becomes like a supercharged research assistant that not only remembers what you’ve uploaded but cites it like a pro.
Sure, there are a couple of downsides: as of now, sharing is limited to people on the same Google Workspace, and there’s no API. But the upsi...2025-04-1844 minLazy LeverageStop Using AI to Make Horses Faster: Design for the Future Now | Lazy Leverage #55AI isn’t here to replace your team—it’s here to give them time back. Join Jon and Peter as they explore how the right interfaces and integrations can supercharge productivity across your org!
Jon kicks things off by sharing his vision: every new client should get a completely customized front end tailored to their needs—think “cars, not faster horses.”
He and Peter riff on the challenge of AI adoption at the ground level—how time-starved teams struggle to learn new tools—and the importance of delivering point solutions that are simple, embedded, and immediately...2025-04-1046 minLazy LeverageHow Lovable Can Save You Hundreds of Hours on Your Web Development | Lazy Leverage #54Imagine having a fully-functional website or landing page created in seconds, simply by transcribing your thoughts, turning it into a prompt, then hitting Enter.
Oh, and you don’t have to spend a cent to make it happen.
Now stop imagining. Enter Lovable, your “superhuman AI full stack engineer”.
Today, Jon gives us a brief, yet life-changing overview of Lovable as he helps Peter build a custom CRM in real time.
Jon walks us through just a few of the outputs that Lovable can make possible, from mortgage calculators to hiking trail ap...2025-04-0355 minLazy LeverageIdentifying Business Constraints: The Strategic Framework Behind Landy Leads | Lazy Leverage #53Ever wonder what happens when an entrepreneur stops trying to do everything and finds the right vehicle? Brandon Parker was juggling multiple businesses when he met Jon two years ago. Now he's running a team of 40+ and crushing it with Landy Leads. In this conversation, they break down exactly HOW that transformation happened. You'll learn why constraint-based thinking is the key to rapid growth, how to leverage global talent effectively, and the power of systems like Airtable for scaling operations. Plus, discover the "make errors visible" approach to building better processes and why your current tech stack might be...2025-03-2652 minLazy LeverageRebuilding a Business with AI and Global Talent | Lazy Leverage #52From Northern Ireland to navigating a PE buyback, Cathryn Lavery brings her raw, unfiltered take on building businesses in 2025. Join Jon as they geek out over AI tools, debate the death of the traditional EA role, and reveal why 'smart, hungry, coachable' beats experience every time. Plus, learn why your $85k/year US marketer might be in trouble (and what to do about it). Pure value, zero BS.
TIMESTAMPS
(00:39) Introduction and Guest Welcome
(01:20) AI in Personal & Professional Life
(06:50) Voice Technology and Content Creation
(10:35) Buying Back the Business
(13:28...2025-03-1851 minLazy LeverageWhen to Cancel Projects and Refocus Your Team | Lazy Leverage #51 What happens when you tell your entire executive team that all their projects are cancelled? Jon Matzner did exactly that, and the results were shocking. In this episode, Jon and Peter Lohmann dive deep into the art of extreme focus, why most businesses are working on the wrong things, and how to identify what actually moves the needle. Plus: fascinating insights on the Toyota Way, why some fires need to burn, and the infamous jazz cup jacket story you didn't know you needed to hear.
Timestamps
(00:31) Introduction
(01:20) Focusing on Constraints
(03:33) The Importance of Prioritizing Ta...2025-03-1144 minLazy LeverageRethinking Business Communities: What Makes Them Work in 2025 | Lazy Leverage #50Want to know what's really happening in the world of B2B communities? Jon and Peter pull back the curtain on how they're building multi-million dollar business communities that are making traditional trade associations obsolete. They reveal their strategy for using AI to circumvent legacy software, share insider tips on community building, and discuss how to use capital to accelerate growth. Warning: This episode might make traditional SaaS companies uncomfortable.
Timestamps
(00:00) Welcome to Lazy Leverage
(02:27) Discussing AI in Business
(04:33) Challenges with traditional SaaS
(09:36) Innovative Solutions for Data Management
(11:26) The Future of Vertical...2025-03-041h 03Lazy LeverageContent, Consulting, and Franchising: A Discussion with Patrick | Lazy Leverage #49In this candid conversation, Patrick (formerly known as Franchise Wolf) opens up about his evolution from anonymous content creator to co-founder of Frandawgs. Learn why he initially hid his identity, how he grew his audience through strategic storytelling, and the unexpected lessons he learned about monetization in the B2B space. A masterclass in pivoting from pure content creation to building a real business.
Follow Patrick on X or FranDawgs.com
TIMESTAMPS
(00:25) Introduction and Background
(06:22) Launching Frandawgs: The New Vision
(10:20) Content Strategy Deep Dive
(19:00) The YouTube Opportunity
(27:25) The Journey from HV...2025-02-2746 minLazy LeverageWhy Your Best Hire Might Know Nothing About Your Industry | Lazy Leverage #48Ever hired someone with 'perfect experience' only to watch them fail? Justin Brown, Director of Operations at Zen Windows, shares how they transformed their hiring process by focusing on three key attributes instead of industry experience. Learn how they turned a guy with zero window knowledge into their Installation Manager superstar in just 7 days, and why their global talent strategy is crushing traditional hiring methods.
Timestamps
(00:26) Introduction to Justin Brown and Zen Windows
(01:39) The "Smart, Hungry, Coachable" Hiring Philosophy
(06:36) Fast Hiring vs. Slow Hiring Debate
(11:06) Success Stories with Global Talent
(16:01) Building...2025-02-2129 minLazy LeverageThe Daily Brief Method: Adapting White House Systems for Business | Lazy Leverage #47Ever wonder how the President stays on top of everything? Jon and Peter break down how to adapt presidential-style daily briefs for your business, plus share raw insights from their recent entrepreneur retreat. From brand building to managing global teams, they reveal what actually works (and what doesn't) in running a growing company.
Timestamps
(00:31) Welcome
(02:28) Customizing The Executive Brief
(12:49) The One-Number Management Philosophy
(17:17) Hiring for Specific Roles
(21:03) The "Death Zone" in Business
(24:30) The Power of Branding in Business
(29:19) Challenges and Reflections of Entrepreneurs
(40:30) Chat GPT Integration Tips
(46:35) Wrap Up2025-02-1447 minLazy LeverageOrganization Without Perfection: A Practical Look at GTD | Lazy Leverage #46This is a follow-up conversation from episodes #38 and #39.
Stop drowning in your inbox and start taking control of your workflow. Jon and Neel tear down the myths around GTD and show you exactly how they implement it in their multi-million dollar businesses. They reveal their personal systems for managing everything from quick tasks to complex projects, and share why the traditional approach to productivity is killing your success. Whether you're running a global team or just trying to get your shit together, this conversation will completely change how you think about organization.
TIMESTAMPS
(00:20) Introduction...2025-02-0454 minLazy LeverageThe Power of Operational Efficiency in Modern Business | Lazy Leverage #45Think disrupting real estate is impossible? Amanda Orson, founder of Galleon, explains how being an outsider gives her the edge to challenge a 112-year-old industry. From military school lessons to ancient philosophy, discover how unconventional thinking drives innovation. Jon and Amanda dive deep into operational efficiency, the future of AI, and why most businesses miss obvious opportunities for transformation. Plus, get book recommendations that have shaped their entrepreneurial journeys and learn why sometimes the best qualification is having no industry experience at all.
Timestamps
(0:00) Welcome and Introduction
(02:38) Military Background and Business Philosophy
(07:00) The...2025-01-3050 minLazy LeverageThe Role of Context in Remote Team Performance | Lazy Leverage #44Ever wonder why some businesses seem to run like clockwork while others are constantly putting out fires? Jon and Peter break down the real reason - it's not what you think. From customer avatars to remote team management, they share battle-tested strategies that actually work in the real world. Plus, they reveal a game-changing approach to building context in remote teams that could revolutionize how you run your business.
TIMESTAMPS
(00:31) Show intro
(02:03) Defining the sweet spot: Between startup and Fortune 50
(03:30) Property management challenges
(07:09) Trade-offs in business structures
(24:50) Breaking down context buildi...2025-01-281h 08Lazy LeverageHow This Youth Soccer Franchise Owner (Soccer Shots) Unlocked Global Talent | Lazy Leverage #43Discover how a Buffalo-based youth soccer program is revolutionizing their operations with global talent. Jon breaks down the journey from local to global teams, sharing practical strategies for elevating your senior staff while maintaining quality. Learn the 'Gordon Ramsay method' of letting your best people focus on high-value work.
Timestamps
(0:22) Introduction to Mark and Soccer Shots background
(6:33) Overview of global talent responsibilities
(9:00) Discussion of global talent cost savings
(11:55) Strategies for recruitment coordination
(17:32) The "bang the gong" recruitment strategy
(35:40) The journey of business systemization
(37:23) Discussion of starting new v...2025-01-2348 minLazy LeverageBuilding an Efficient DSO Through Global Talent with Dr. Dave Ensley | Lazy Leverage #42"We can't find enough dentists" is the cry echoing across the industry - but Dr. Dave Ensley's group is crushing it with a revolutionary approach to talent. In this episode, discover how his DSO grew to $70M by reimagining traditional roles, leveraging global talent, and embracing automation. Dave breaks down exactly how they built successful teams in Mexico, Pakistan, and the Philippines, reveals the costly mistakes most practices make with global hiring, and shares his blueprint for creating a sustainable dental business. Plus, learn why paying more could actually be the key to solving your hiring challenges.
2025-01-1757 minLazy LeverageLeading Global Teams: Context Over Control | Lazy Leverage #41Think remote teams can't be as effective as in-office ones? Think again. Jon and Peter break down the counterintuitive strategies that have helped them build world-class remote teams, including the game-changing '10/80/10 framework' and why context matters more than control. Plus, they reveal the innovative ways they're using AI and rotational assignments to create unstoppable remote cultures. Whether you're managing one remote employee or fifty, this episode will transform how you think about remote leadership.
Timestamps:
(00:40) Show format and authenticity in podcasting
(03:48) Media leverage and content creation
(10:35) The 10/80/10 framework for content...2025-01-1559 minLazy LeverageFinding Balance: A Year-End Reflection | Lazy Leverage #40What happens when you strip everything away except your top two priorities? Jon opens up about his year of extreme focus, sharing both the wins and uncomfortable sacrifices. Then, he and Peter geek out about the digital power tools revolutionizing business operations, including their secret weapons for automation and productivity. Whether you're struggling with work-life balance or hunting for tech solutions to scale your business, this raw and practical discussion delivers the insights you won't hear anywhere else.
Timestamps
(00:33) New Year kickoff
(02:30) Dan Gable's influence on prioritization
(04:00) The cost of extreme focus
(08:50...2025-01-0951 minLazy LeverageThe Surprising Truth About Why Your To-Do List Isn't Working (And How to Fix It) [Part 2] | Lazy Leverage #39This is part 2 of a 2 part episode. Check out part 1 first!
Ever wonder how top entrepreneurs manage dozens of projects without losing their minds? In this deep-dive episode, Jon Matzner reveals his secret weapon: the Getting Things Done (GTD) methodology. Watch as he transforms a chaotic email inbox into a streamlined system that actually works. Whether you're drowning in tasks or just tired of forgetting important details, this conversation will revolutionize how you think about productivity.
Timestamps
(0:26) Introduction
(0:39) Next Actions (To-Do) vs. Projects
(06:21) Creating Actionable Next Steps
(08:55) Building Your Mas...2025-01-0242 min
Peter Lohmann's PodcastThe Season 4 Finale with Jon MatznerIn this episode, I am joined by Jon Matzner. We discuss our new podcast, called Lazy Leverage!
We discuss:
(00:00:00) - Intro
(00:01:08) - Updates and announcements
(00:03:28) - Introducing Lazy Leverage
(00:06:55) - Twitter/X
(00:20:31) - The Email disagreement
(00:28:37) -Tool Recommendations
Building your own yacht article: https://mailchi.mp/e2d02a4dcc8a/creating-your-own-yacht
Listen to the Lazy Leverage Podcast
PLAUD.ai
Learn more & connect with me here:
Crane, the private community for property management...2024-12-3033 minLazy LeverageThe Surprising Truth About Why Your To-Do List Isn't Working (And How to Fix It) [Part 1] | Lazy Leverage #38From email overwhelm to project mastery - this episode is your roadmap to stress-free productivity. Join Jon Matzner as he breaks down the exact system he uses to manage multiple businesses while maintaining his sanity. You'll discover why your mind isn't for storing ideas, how to build a system you can trust, and the shocking truth about why your current to-do list is holding you back. This isn't just another productivity hack - it's a complete paradigm shift in how you manage your work and life.
Timestamps
(00:26) Introduction
(03:15) GTD Philosophy
(04:45) The Importance of Having a...2024-12-2648 minLazy LeverageThis Ex-MLB Player's Secret to Running his Thriving Koala Insulation Franchise (Without Being Trapped By It) | Lazy Leverage #37Meet Brandon Beachy, former Atlanta Braves pitcher turned successful business owner, who transformed his Koala Insulation franchise using global talent. Learn how he went from struggling with basic business operations to running a streamlined company by leveraging remote teams in Argentina and Colombia. Brandon shares practical insights on transitioning from professional sports to entrepreneurship, and how finding the right support system allowed him to build a business that serves his life, not the other way around.
Timestamps
(00:26) Introduction and Baseball Background
(02:16) The Decision to Leave Professional Sports
(09:34) Why Koala Insulation? Choosing th...2024-12-1855 minLazy LeverageWhy Your Service Business Needs Manufacturing Principles (And How to Apply Them) | Lazy Leverage #36Sagan's Head of Operations Hugo shares how manufacturing principles can revolutionize remote work, why trust trumps experience in global teams, and how to empower (not just delegate to) your international workforce. Learn how he transitioned from traditional manufacturing to leading a 50-person global team in just 50 days.
Timestamps
(00:22) Introduction and Hugo's background
(01:25) Hugo's passion for lean manufacturing
(04:36] Operational excellence as differentiation
(08:40) Quality control in service vs manufacturing
(11:25) Leading team transitions and respecting history
(12:58) Building trust in remote teams
(15:47) Documentation and communication practices
(17:49) Rapid integration of new leaders...2024-12-1131 minLazy LeverageThe Boy Who Cried Deadline | Lazy Leverage #35When a key team member leaves, should you take it personally? Jon and Peter explore opposing views on employee loyalty, deadline management, and what it really means to build a sustainable business in today's environment.
Timestamps
(00:34) Welcome and Show Introduction
(01:05) Key Team Member Departure Discussion
(04:06) Small Business Backup Systems
(09:14) Remote Work Possibilities
(13:11) Managing Employee Departures
(21:53) The Deadline Discussion
(27:20) EOS and Priority Management
(31:00) Calendar Management Strategies
(37:34) Business Competition Philosophy
(40:18) YouTube Channel Recommendations
St...2024-12-0444 minLazy LeverageStop Writing SOPs Before You Hire (and Other Uncomfortable Truths) | Lazy Leverage #34This is the raw, unfiltered conversation about what actually works in property management. Jon and Peter share their biggest revelations about leadership, systems, and why being 'fair' to all clients might be your biggest mistake. Plus: The uncomfortable truth about why your top clients keep leaving (and what to do about it).
Timestamps
(00:00) Introduction and recent wins
(02:00) Debunking the "you need an audience" myth
(06:07) New approach to SOPs and documentation
(11:40) Developing people vs. developing processes
(00:19:22) Management dynamics
(00:28:45) Premium service tiers discussion
(32:00) C...2024-11-2755 minLazy LeverageStop Trading Time for Money: A Consultant's Guide to True Leverage | Lazy Leverage #33Sick of trading hours for dollars in your consulting business? You're not alone. Join Jon Matzner and Dan Kirner as they rip apart the traditional consulting model and show you exactly how to build real leverage. Through real-world examples and zero-fluff strategies, they reveal how to spot golden opportunities in your market, transform your services into products, and scale without losing your mind. Whether you're just starting out or looking to break through your current ceiling, this episode is your blueprint for consulting that actually scales.
Timestamps:
(00:00) Welcome and Dan's Background
(00:32) From Time-for-Money t...2024-11-1934 minLazy LeverageThe Hidden Truth About Your Email Problem (And Why It's Not About Email) | Lazy Leverage #32Ever wonder why your inbox feels like a never-ending game of whack-a-mole? Join Peter Lohmann and Jon Matzner as they expose why email overload is actually a symptom of deeper business issues. Through candid conversation and real-world examples, they demolish common productivity myths and reveal their battle-tested system for taking control of your communication. From the controversial truth about quick response times to the game-changing difference between tasks and projects, this episode delivers actionable insights that will transform how you work. Whether you're drowning in notifications or just tired of email running your life, this is the wake-up call...2024-11-1456 minLazy LeverageStop Having Your Best People Do Everything: A Guide to Work Design | Lazy Leverage #31Jon Matzner and Peter Lohmann break down the art and science of 'architecting the way work gets done' - a crucial skill for any business owner looking to scale. From handling employee resistance to identifying bottlenecks, learn how to design work systems that unlock growth while keeping your best people happy. Plus: sneaky tips for spotting AI responses in hiring, and game-changing iPhone features you didn't know existed.
Timestamps
(00:00) Intro and casual catch-up
(04:15) Understanding "architecting the way work gets done"
(11:40) The Henry Ford approach to work design
(15:45) Why...2024-11-0834 minLazy LeverageHow to Hire Global Talent Like a Pro with Anna Doshlygina | Lazy Leverage #30Ever wonder what happens when you mix Moscow State economics, Oklahoma middle school, and global talent acquisition? Meet Anna, Sagan's secret weapon in member success. In this no-BS conversation, she breaks down why some businesses crush it with global talent while others barely scratch the surface. From navigating cultural bridges to building trust-based partnerships, Anna shares the unfiltered truth about what makes global hiring work. Whether you're a startup founder or running a PE firm, this episode is packed with actionable insights that'll transform how you think about global talent integration.
Timestamps
(00:00) M...2024-11-0633 minLazy LeverageBreaking Free from the MORE MORE MORE Trap | Lazy Leverage #29Ever wonder how top performers actually work less while achieving more? In this episode, Jon Matzner and Peter Lohmann dive deep into the counterintuitive world of 'lazy leverage,' where working at 80% effort yields better results than grinding at 100%. From project management approaches using Slack to the power of seasonal thinking in business, they share battle-tested strategies for maximizing output while minimizing stress. Plus, discover why your best ideas might come while sitting in a hot tub (seriously). Whether you're a CEO looking to work smarter or a team leader seeking better systems, this episode is your blueprint for...2024-10-3153 min
Lazy LeverageThe Four Data Systems: A Framework for Scaling Team Communication | Lazy Leverage #28In this episode of Lazy Leverage, Jon and Binsi tackle the universal challenge of scaling team communication beyond the 30-person mark. They break down their revolutionary "four data types" framework - database, reference, ad-hoc, and project-based communication - while exploring how to effectively leverage tools like Slack, Airtable, and Notion. Through practical demonstrations and real-world examples, they show how to transform chaotic communication into streamlined project management, complete with insights on their preferred GTD-inspired workflow and an innovative approach to KPI-based team organization.
Timestamps
(00:00) Introduction and Greetings
(01:28) Consolidating Information2024-10-2432 min
Lazy LeverageHiring Hacks Unlocked: Debunking Recruitment Myths with Sofia Bravo | Lazy Leverage #27In this insightful and candid episode, Jon Matzner teams up with Sofia Bravo, Sagan's Head of Recruitment, to dissect and debunk common hiring pitfalls. They explore why traditional job titles and strict budgets might be holding companies back, emphasizing the power of clear role descriptions and the right attitude over rigid experience. Expect real talk about the recruitment process, from the importance of responsive hiring practices to innovative strategies that ensure top candidates don't fall through the cracks. And stay tuned for some fun discussions about potential off-sites in
Mexico!(00:00) Introduction
(01:10) Sophia's Background...2024-10-2220 min
Lazy LeverageThe Hustler’s Handbook: Scaling, Sales, and Street-Smart Tactics with John Kelly | Lazy Leverage #26Get ready to dive into the real-talk playbook of entrepreneurship and scaling your business with Lazy Leverage! In this episode, we kick it with Jon Matzner and John Kelly to talk about nailing customer acquisition and converting leads in the power washing game. We’ll spill the secrets on remote sales hires, building a killer team from scratch, and sidestepping the common traps in hiring. Learn to streamline your operations, sharpen your sales structures, and deliver pricing presentations like a pro. Plus, get raw wisdom from Mike Costigan on showing up on time, reading body language, and mastering the do...2024-10-1752 min
Lazy LeverageLeverage Like a Pro: From AI Tools to Client Hustle | Lazy Leverage #25Welcome back to Lazy Leverage!
In this episode, Peter and Jon break down how to maximize your personal and professional life with killer strategies and AI tools. They dive into leveraging teams and systems to handle life's hiccups, boost productivity with Whisper Flow and Audio Diary, and even how limited-time offers can skyrocket your sales. Get the lowdown on engaging clients, personalized outreach, and maintaining exclusivity while expanding your community. Learn from real-life scenarios and high-value tactic, that can help you crush your goals and scale up smartly.
Through...2024-10-1527 minPeter Lohmann's PodcastThe Value of Pushing Work Down with Jon MatznerIn this special episode, I am joined by Jon Matzner, Cofounder of Sagan Passport
We discuss:
(00:00:00) - Intro
(00:01:43) - Jon’s background and career
(00:03:12) - Jon’s barbell strategy for talent
(00:08:00) - Matzner’s Hierarchy of how work gets done
(00:14:12) - What have you learned about delegating from reading about the Marine Corps?
(00:21:10) Sponsor: Property Meld
(00:22:59) - Career learnings
(00:38:32) - Investing approaches
(00:41:11) - Sponsor: Second Nature
(00:43:01) - What are the companies with the best global talent...2024-07-311h 04
Lazy LeverageBeyond Selling: Elevating Business Success with Insights | Lazy Leverage #24Want to learn about cold calling and prospecting?
Johnny Costigan has been a sales trainer for 20 years, and has worked with sales teams at Google, Amazon, Dropbox, SAP, Dropbox, and many others.
Example - how he describes sales:
- Got a problem?
- Got money?
- Want to solve it?
If you are at all interested in professionalizing sales and filling your funnel (like me) there is so much more within this conversation, and Johnny's experience...
Through our conversation, you'll discover:
00:00 Introduction to Johnny Costigan and His Sales Philosophy
01:09...2024-04-301h 24
Lazy LeverageNavigating Global Talent: A Journey in Business Expansion | Lazy Leverage #23Wes owns the number 1 and number 3 largest Fast Signs locations in the 750 unit network.
150 local employees.
0 global talent when I met him - now has 17+.
He's become a friend, and we've hired a ton of global talent together.
Smart, crazy person - @wes_kauffman
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Starting with our collaborative efforts in systemizing business processes, we explore Wes's experience in growing Fast Signs franchises across various locations.
From building a team of nearly 17 global members to enhancing operational efficiency and competitiveness, we delve into the strategic utilization of global talent in...2024-04-0122 min
Lazy LeverageThe Retreat Diaries: Unplugging to Connect | Lazy Leverage #22Peter and I talk about:
1) How he planned, structured, and implemented his mini "think week"
2) What we are both afraid of when creating more content
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In this episode of Lazy Leverage, Peter and I dive into the enriching practice of the annual solo retreat, a concept inspired by Bill Gates' Think Week. It's a time dedicated to relaxation, reflection, planning, and diving deep into books, all while stepping back from the relentless grip of technology. We explore the powerful strategy of creating a 'do not do' list, drawing inspiration from Warren Buffet to master...2024-03-2243 min
Lazy LeverageFrom Operations to Ownership: Scaling Franchise Empires | Lazy Leverage #21Ben has like 700 people working for him across 10+ locations.
He is sharp as .
We talk about the evolving role of leaders, building leverage, and life as an entrepreneur.
Through our conversation, you'll discover:
00:00 Meet Ben: The Multi-Unit Franchisee Juggling Big Brands
01:26 Exploring the Challenges of Scaling and Efficiency in Franchising
03:01 The Delicate Balance of Delegation, Automation, and Personal Involvement
17:12 Navigating the Complexities of Email Overload and Operational Challenges
03:34 Envisioning the Ideal Operational Model and Personal Involvement
32:29 Navigating Maintenance and...2024-03-1955 min
Lazy LeverageDigital Hustle: Mastering Marketing with Jon & Mike | Lazy Leverage #20Mike has taught me more about REAL entrepreneurship than anyone other than my Dad.
Mike and I have worked together for almost 7 years, and talk pretty much every day.
He's "never had a real job since he was 18", has had multiple exits, has tried to retire twice but got bored, and is a great friend and mentor.
He has created a new retargeting service, that I am customer of, and has been crushing for us.
Full disclosure - If anyone signs up off my twitter, he has to send me a Lou malnati's Pizza - so I am just...2024-03-1441 min
Lazy LeverageApplying Military-Style Debrief & Leadership Tactics to Business | Lazy Leverage #19In this episode, Christian and I dive into the nuanced world of military-style debriefing and its transformative application in business leadership and operations.
Christian truly stands out in the digital landscape for his insights and experience.
Our discussion extends beyond the mere act of debriefing, touching upon stress management, the essence of communication in critical situations, and the overarching impact of military discipline on commercial success. We dissect the debrief mindset, a crucial learning tool in the military for enhancing future actions and operational efficiency, advocating for its adoption...2024-02-1450 min
Lazy LeverageDesigning Life, Building Confidence, and Starting a Business | Lazy Leverage #18Join Peter and me in a thought-provoking conversation where we delve into the intricacies of designing a fulfilling life, building unwavering confidence, and embarking on the entrepreneurial journey.
As career entrepreneurs who cherish significant time off, we explore the concept of "micro audiences" and the impact they have on our ventures. We share insights on the essence of setting clear goals, the value of self-reflection, and the critical nature of experiencing an apprenticeship period for hands-on learning.
Furthermore, we discuss the strategic approach of starting with low-commitment franchises to...2024-02-1434 min
Lazy LeverageDecoding Talent Management: Recognizing Red Flags in Global Teams | Lazy Leverage #17In this episode, we tackle the complex dynamics of global team management, addressing the pivotal question many leaders face: "Is your global team failing you, or are you failing them?"
With extensive experience in hiring, we dive into identifying the top red flags for both American and global talent, aiming to discern the root causes behind a team's underperformance. From responsiveness and proactiveness to the deeper nuances of cultural fit and communication barriers, we explore how to effectively manage and nurture global talent for optimum performance.
Through our conversation...2024-02-1432 min
Lazy LeverageBuilding Strong and Successful Business Partnerships | Lazy Leverage #16Join me in a compelling dialogue with Peter Lohmann (@pslohmann) as we explore the intricacies and hurdles involved in crafting and sustaining robust business partnerships. Our discussion is rooted in the belief that the foundation of a successful partnership lies in clear communication, mutual respect, and shared goals. We delve into the necessity of formalizing agreements to address potential challenges proactively, the dynamics of unequal partnerships, and the evolution of partnership roles over time to preserve clarity and trust.
Through our conversation, you'll discover:
00:00 - Kicking off with an overview of why...2024-02-0523 min
Lazy LeverageBuilding Business Leverage | Lazy Leverage #15In this episode, I connect with Peter Lohmann (@pslohmann), a significant figure in the SMB space known for his deep insights and influential presence. Our discussions on small and medium business (SMB) issues have always been enriching, prompting us to record our latest conversation for a broader audience. We dive into the concept of building business leverage, discussing everything from the nuances of high-leverage work to the practicalities of hiring and employee management across various business sizes.
Through our conversation, you'll discover:
00:00 - Reconnecting and setting the scene for our discussion on...2024-02-0541 min
Lazy LeverageDigital Operations | Lazy Leverage #14Join me in a fascinating conversation with Michael Greenberg (@gentoftech), a brilliant mind and frequent collaborator who often experiences the spontaneous "Jon treatment" — impromptu Zoom calls to dissect various business concepts. This time, we hit the record button on one of our dynamic discussions, covering the expansive terrain of digital operations and automation. We delve into how the digital operations toolkit, encompassing AI, automation, and the strategic use of global talent, is revolutionizing business practices from the core.
Through our conversation, you'll discover:
00:00 - Kicking off with an introduction of my guest, Mi...2024-02-0545 min
Lazy LeverageUpwork for Lead Enrichment: A Beginners Guide | Lazy Leverage #13In this episode, I sit down with Shawn Gorham (@shawngorham) to navigate the complexities of using Upwork for the first time, specifically aimed at enriching a probate attorney contact list.
Shawn sought advice on leveraging Upwork to access a global talent pool for compiling and enhancing a significant dataset. Our conversation unveils the strategic use of Upwork to connect with skilled freelancers from South Asia, utilizing tools like LinkedIn Navigator and Apollo for lead enrichment. We delve into the nuances of crafting effective job postings, the importance of setting crystal-clear expectations, and the strategy...2024-02-0510 min
Lazy LeverageStaying Organized: Part Two | Lazy Leverage #12In the second installment of our "Staying Organized" series, I continue the conversation with my colleague Binsi (@BinsiDevadasan) on the complex topic of managing the chaos of digital communication. After capturing everything down, the next big question we tackle is: what do we do with all that information? This episode dives into our strategies (and yes, our disagreements!) for processing and organizing the influx of emails, Slack messages, texts, calls, and DMs to maintain efficiency within a global team.
Through our conversation, you'll discover:
00:00 - Diving back into the quest for global team organization, setting...2024-02-0533 min
Lazy LeverageStaying Organized: Part One | Lazy Leverage #11In this episode, I team up with my Chief of Staff, Binsi (@BinsiDevadasan), who has been an integral part of my journey for the past 7 years. As our team expands globally, we've begun to document our "best practices" to onboard and share with new talents. Our first discussion centers on mastering organization through the effective management of inboxes, a crucial skill in today's interconnected work environment.
Through our conversation, you'll discover:
00:00 - Introduction to the art of staying organized, especially when managing a diverse, global team.
00:00 - Discussing the pivotal...2024-02-0524 min
Lazy LeverageBuilding High-Performance Sales Culture | Lazy Leverage #10Dive into an insightful conversation with Kiwi Rene (@thekiwicowboy), whose sales achievements are nothing short of legendary, having converted over 50% of his appointments into sales.
In this episode, we explore the art and science behind identifying exceptional sales talent and cultivating a dynamic sales culture that not only aims for targets but consistently surpasses them. From the front lines of sales to the strategic planning behind successful team building, Kiwi Rene shares his comprehensive insights into creating an environment that fosters competition, growth, and success.
Through our conversation, you'll...2024-02-0517 min
Lazy LeverageWriting Stuff Down: How to Change Your Business | Lazy Leverage #9Join Brian and me as we explore the impact of leadership, adaptation, and the artful approach to business, drawing from Brian's experiences in the Marine Corps. We discuss the critical role of documentation, the innovative Team Wiki, and how effective communication is key to a thriving business environment.
Through our conversation, you'll discover:
00:00 Introduction and Reunion with Brian
00:10 Reminiscing Old Times and Lessons from CrossFit
00:44 The Beauty of Wikis and Immersion Systems
01:15 Transition from Marine Corps to Civilian Life
01:29 The Birth of Team Wiki2024-02-0551 min
Lazy LeverageOutput Thinking: Buckets (Part 3) | Lazy Leverage #8In part three of my insightful conversation with @BetterCeo, we dive into the final installment of our discussion celebrating the launch of his new book, "Output Thinking." The conversation takes an unexpected turn right from the start, as I find myself disagreeing with Jon within the first 30 seconds. Our focus on the 'buckets'—essential outcomes for any organization—reveals profound insights into aligning business strategies with the owner's ultimate goals.
Through our conversation, you'll discover:
00:00 - We begin with an introduction and a light-hearted disagreement on the concept of 'buckets' in business.
00:00 - Expl...2024-02-0534 min
Lazy LeverageOutput Thinking: Systems (Part 2) | Lazy Leverage #7In this episode, John (@BetterCeo) and I continue our enlightening conversation on the transformative power of "thinking in systems" within your business. We delve into the untapped potential lying dormant in many companies, discussing how encouraging employees to adopt an owner's mindset can lead to significant improvements in efficiency and growth.
This chat is particularly special as we celebrate the launch of John's new book, "Output Thinking," which is currently available for pre-order. Join us as we explore the practical steps to systemizing your business, drawing examples from a diverse range of sectors, including...2024-02-0532 min
Lazy LeverageOutput Thinking: Outputs (Part 1) | Lazy Leverage #6Checkout my newsletter!
John and I discuss the essential ideas from his new book about Output Thinking.
He explains that many obstacles in business, particularly barriers to scaling, often stem from a lack of clarity about expectations.
The role of employees, he argues, is not merely to do work, but to produce outputs.
This requires a shift from traditional org chart thinking to a more systematic view, where the emphasis is on the results or outputs of each role.
However...2024-01-1636 min
Lazy LeverageGiving Feedback to Global Talent | Lazy Leverage #5Binsi and I discuss the importance of effective feedback in any work relationship, focusing on a method they refer to as 'Stop, Start, Continue'.
We suggest asking feedback on what one should stop doing, start doing, and continue doing.
Various practical situations were discussed including how to handle challenges of disorganized workflows, lack of one-on-one feedback, and dealing with unexpected calls or tasks.
The discussion also stressed the importance of fostering an environment where employees feel comfortable making mistakes and learning from them, as...2024-01-1618 min
Lazy LeveragePeter Hires an Assistant (Part 4) | Lazy Leverage #4Subscribe to my free newsletter!
Peter and I talk about maximizing the productivity of remote assistants.
The conversation explored the concept of speed to tasking, which focuses on reducing the friction between wanting a task done and getting it to the assistant in an organized manner.
They also stressed the importance of using structured instructions and communication for task delegation.
They introduced a military-style five-paragraph format for giving instructions and discussed the role of AI in refining thoughts. The...2024-01-1628 min
Lazy LeveragePeter Hires an Assistant (Part 3) | Lazy Leverage #3Subscribe to my free newsletter!
Peter and I discuss our experiences with hiring remote talent. Peter details his recent experience of hiring a personal assistant from the Philippines, and the successful onboarding process he followed, influenced by my advice and experience.
We emphasize the importance of clear instructions, creating an environment for trust and success, setting realistic expectations from the outset and the willingness of the new hire to learn and adapt.
We discuss various tools and software helpful in remote setups, and stress the...2024-01-1619 min
Lazy LeveragePeter Hires an Assistant (Part 2) | Lazy Leverage #2Subscribe to my free newsletter!
Peter and I explore the effective methods to source candidates, with a primary focus on the Philippines, while also shedding light on hiring from different parts of the globe depending on the job role.
We discuss the importance of using a system like JotForm or a basic ATS to stay organized when handling numerous candidates is highlighted.
An emphasis is placed on the need to hire full time rather than part time due to cost-effectiveness while considering the candidate's Engl...2024-01-0718 min
Lazy LeveragePeter Hires an Assistant (Part 1) | Lazy Leverage #1Subscribe to my free newsletter!
Peter and I discuss the nuances of offloading tasks to an offshore assistant.
We outline the importance of considering the areas where time is consumed the most, such as scheduling, email management, data collection for KPI, and basic design tasks through platforms like Canva.
Our conversation offers practical examples and turns theoretical concepts about needing an assistant into tangible tasks that an offshore hire could handle.
We also highlight how reducing even tiny friction poin...2024-01-0717 min
Peter Lohmann's PodcastBIG Announcement - Special Midseason Episode with Jon MatznerSpecial Episode of the Owner Occupied podcast with Peter Lohmann & special guest Jon Matzner. In this episode we discuss:
(00:00) - Intro
(01:47) - Jon’s background and career
(03:17) - How are you utilizing Notion in your work?
(06:06) - Expanding the Garage Upgrade business
(11:09) - The 3 parts of value for people entering the world of Property Management
(22:44) - When starting or buying a PM company, what is something that people think is important, that your experience tells you people can skip entirely?
(25:31) - What’s something you’re doi...2022-11-0248 min