Shows
On the FlywheelThe Power of Customer Experience in BusinessSummary
In this conversation, Ash Gomez, founder of Digital Twinners and co-founder of Orion Sky Studios, shares his journey from a sales career to running successful media companies. He emphasizes the importance of customer experience, building a strong team, and leveraging technology to enhance business operations. Ash discusses the impact of AI on the creative industry, lead generation strategies, and the significance of networking and partnerships. He also reflects on handling customer feedback and the diverse projects undertaken by Orion Sky Studios, concluding with insights on business philosophy and mindset.
Takeaways
Ash Gomez transitioned...
2025-12-1442 minOn the FlywheelSystems, Structure, and Surviving GrowthSummary
In this episode, I sit down with consultant Jon Rickards to talk through his unique path—from the Navy’s nuclear program to decades in the wine industry—and how all of that led him into helping small and micro-businesses bring order to their chaos. Jon shares what most business owners struggle with, why understanding your numbers matters so much, and how he’s helping his wife build a community-focused salon business.
Takeaways
Non-linear paths create powerful skill sets.
Exposure broadens character and capability.
Small business owners often lack business foundations.
Understanding your numbers...
2025-11-3043 minOn the FlywheelInside the World of Modern RecruitingSummary
In this episode, I sit down with Adrian Gould, Practice Director at Robert Half, for a conversation about career pivots, productivity, and the evolving world of accounting and finance consulting. Adrian shares how he went from managing rental car branches to overseeing more than 60 active projects at once, and we dive into trends shaping the labor market today—from AI’s growing influence to why companies are running leaner than ever.
Takeaways
Career trajectories don’t need to be linear
Project-based staffing is on the rise
Time-blocking is Adrian’s productivity superpower
AI is resha...
2025-11-2344 minOn the FlywheelStarting Small, Scaling SmartSummary
In this conversation, John Rushworth from Spark Plug Marketing shares his journey from startups to establishing a successful digital marketing agency. He discusses the importance of helping small businesses succeed, common mistakes they make in digital marketing, and how to maximize their online presence.
Takeaways
John's family has a long history in farming and marketing.
He started Spark Plug Marketing to help small businesses succeed.
Common mistakes include underutilizing assets like email lists and social media.
Clients typically see returns within three months of working with Spark Plug Marketing.
Maintaining an active online...
2025-11-0239 minOn the FlywheelThe Power of Peer Networks in BusinessSummary
In this conversation, Bill Vick, a Vistage Chair, discusses the importance of peer networks for business leaders, the role of accountability in driving growth, and the challenges faced by business owners today. He emphasizes the value of strategic planning, community connection, and the impact of AI on the business landscape. Vick shares insights on how Vistage helps members navigate these challenges and highlights the importance of caring for employees and fostering a supportive business environment.
Takeaways
Vistage is the largest peer network in the world.
Isolation is a common challenge for CEOs.
Accountability...
2025-10-0538 min
Dare to Be Great, Dare to Be You Hosted by Shawn LangwellJonathan Mahrt, Founder, Flywheel Consulting
How to Increase Efficiency for Small Family Businesses
Join me and Consultant, Jonathan Mahrt for an Open Conversation About Making Meaningful Upgrades to Systems, Processes, Operations
About Jonathan:
Jonathan Mahrt is the founder of Flywheel Consulting, a boutique business consulting firm focused on digital transformation and business process improvement. Growing up and working on his family’s farm, Jonathan learned the value of hard work, creative problem solving, and doing the right things the right way.
He leverages 14 years of real world business, operations, IT, and automation experience to hel...
2025-10-0238 minOn the FlywheelFamily First, Business SecondSummary
In this engaging conversation, Kathleen Stafford shares her diverse career journey, from her early days at Wells Fargo to her experiences in the restaurant business and her current role as a realtor. She reflects on the importance of family, the challenges of navigating career changes, and the lessons learned along the way. The discussion emphasizes the value of hard work, independence, and the impact of personal experiences on shaping one's life path.
Takeaways
We are the sum of our experiences and the roads we've taken.
It's never too late to start over and...
2025-09-2146 minOn the FlywheelAll it Takes is 10 Seconds of BoldnessSummary
In this engaging conversation, Sean Langwell shares his journey from a corporate career in sales and marketing to becoming an author and confidence coach. He discusses the importance of maintaining a beginner's mindset, the process of writing and self-publishing his books, and introduces his five-step method for building confidence and overcoming fear. The conversation emphasizes the significance of taking bold actions, the value of accountability, and the necessity of introspection in personal and professional growth.
Topics
Introduction to Sean Langwell and His Journey 00:00
The Journey to Becoming an Author 04:29
2025-08-2445 minOn the FlywheelWhy People Buy You, Not Your ProductSummary
In this episode of On the Flywheel, I chat with Ed Troxell about how to build confidence on camera and keep business simple. Ed shares his journey from tech and education to coaching others on showing up authentically through video. We talk about mindset, overcoming fear, and why connection matters more than perfection. If you’re ready to be seen, heard, and paid—this one’s for you.
Topics
From Education to Entrepreneurship 00:00:56
Helping People Show Up on Video 00:09:32
Mindset, Fear & The Confidence Gap 00:16:49
Business Simplicity & System...
2025-08-1046 minOn the FlywheelSelling with Heart, Leading by ExampleSummary
Michele LeSage has spent four decades helping organizations—from construction firms to Lucasfilm—turn branded merchandise into memorable, referral-generating experiences. In this conversation, she shares how creativity beats catalogs, why “sales without compassion” fails, and the routines and networks that keep her business moving. We also cover practical promo strategy (like why sticky-note cubes are sneaky-powerful), succession planning, work-life rhythms, and the happiness mindset she’d put on a billboard.
Topics
Michele’s Journey Into Promotions 00:00:53
Creativity, Client Care, and Cookies 00:05:53
Staying Consistent and Leading by Example 00:08:19
The Value...
2025-07-2843 minOn the FlywheelWork-Life IntegrationSUMMARY
In this episode, I talk with Allan Jaffe, VP of Technology at Top Speed Data, about his 40+ year career in telecom and tech. We cover what it means to be a technology advisor, how his team helps businesses solve problems without extra cost, and why cybersecurity is more important than ever. Allan also shares thoughts on work-life balance, daily routines, and how perspective and kindness go a long way in business and life.
A Career Built on Adaptability & Relationships 00:00:48
Allan shares his journey from earning an economics degree at UC Davis to building...
2025-07-1340 minOn the FlywheelThe It, We, and I of LeadershipSUMMARY
In this episode, I sit down with Russ Powell of Russ Powell Consulting to explore what it really takes to be an effective leader and team builder. Russ shares the winding path that led him from psychology and teaching to instructional design, the U.S. Coast Guard, and eventually into leadership development. We talk about why most people don’t think systemically, the value of simplicity in coaching, and how habits like journaling, poetry, and reflection can power real transformation. Russ also shares his daily poem, practical frameworks for teams, and what makes his coaching style un...
2025-06-2944 minOn the FlywheelSelling, Growing, and Moving*SUMMARY*
In this episode, I chat with Jeff Arnold from the Armstrong Company about his unique path through retail sales, tech, cannabis consulting, and eventually landing in the world of professional moving. Jeff opens up about lessons learned from early jobs, why he keeps gravitating toward sales, and how becoming a dad reshaped his priorities. We dive into the wild economics of cannabis, what it’s like selling complex moving services, and why building trust and relationships matters more than any sales tactic.
*TOPICS*
*Jeff’s Background* 00:00:38
Starting in retail at RadioShack and...
2025-06-1654 minOn the FlywheelSuccess is built on trust*SUMMARY*
In this episode, I sit down with Brynn Wilson, an estate planning attorney. Brynn walks us through her unique journey into law, starting as a high school receptionist at a law firm, and how she found her passion in estate planning. We talk about what it really means to be a partner at a law firm, the emotional challenges of estate litigation, and the nuances of helping families navigate end-of-life decisions. She also opens up about her personal routines, how she maintains momentum in her career, and the importance of self-awareness and positivity in building a...
2025-06-0240 minOn the FlywheelAll About PeopleSummary
In this episode, I sit down with Jessica Hart of Jessica Hart Consulting to explore the world of HR for small and medium-sized businesses. Jessica shares insights on the most common HR pitfalls, what drives her passion for human resources, and how she navigates the constantly changing legal landscape—especially in California. She also opens up about launching her own consulting practice, juggling family life, and the power of networking in building a business.
Topics
Jessica’s Background
Growing up in Petaluma, CA
Early experiences that sparked her interest in HR
Working in HR a...
2025-02-1741 minOn the FlywheelWhy Financial Literacy in Business MattersSummary
In this episode, I chat with Roxanne Alban, owner of Applied Financial Services, Inc., to explore the critical financial challenges businesses face and how to overcome them. Roxanne shares her journey from working in a domestic violence organization to becoming an entrepreneur helping nonprofits and businesses streamline their financial processes. She also provides actionable advice for business owners to gain control over their finances and highlights the importance of trust, understanding, and teamwork in her approach to financial management.
Topics
Roxanne’s Journey to Entrepreneurship
Common Financial Pitfalls
Empowering Clients
Building a Resilient Fi...
2024-12-2334 minOn the FlywheelTurning Passion into ProfitSummary
This week I'm thrilled to share my conversation with Cynthia Riggs of the Biz Diva. Cynthia’s entrepreneurial journey is nothing short of inspiring. From an unexpected start at a flea market to building a multi-million dollar clothing line, Cynthia shares the lessons and challenges she faced, particularly in creating high-quality, stylish clothing for plus-size women when such options were scarce. Her story is a testament to passion, resilience, and the power of niche markets. Today, Cynthia runs the Biz Diva, helping women build successful seven-figure businesses. This episode is packed with practical advice and insights on...
2024-07-2245 minOn the FlywheelThe value of hard work in creative successSummary
On Episode 7 of On the Flywheel we have an exciting guest, Barry Bierman of Lockstone Media. We dive into Barry's fascinating journey from his roots in Saskatchewan to founding his own video production company. Barry shares his unique path, from working on oil rigs to yachts, and eventually becoming a self-taught director of photography. Tune in to hear how he navigated these diverse experiences and built his career in media production.
In this episode, Barry and I discuss the importance of practical experience over formal education, the value of hard work, and how personal...
2024-07-1544 minOn the FlywheelHow to build a foundation for successSummary
In this episode, I sit down with Ryan Larrabure from Larrabure Construction and Design. Ryan shares his inspiring journey from starting as a painter in Petaluma to running a successful construction business. We delve into the importance of finding the right people, offering opportunities for growth, and the challenges of managing a small business. Ryan's passion for design and his unique approach to business management shine through as we discuss the ups and downs of the construction industry.
Topics
Ryan’s early days: From painting to accounting, and finally starting his own business
Re...
2024-07-0142 minOn the FlywheelThink about the problem and ask good questionsSummary
In this episode, I sit down with Ramsay Brown, a Commercial Relationship Manager at a local community bank. We dive into Ramsay's fascinating career journey, from his MBA days to his current role where he thrives on helping businesses secure the financing they need to grow. Ramsay shares valuable insights into the banking industry's unique aspects, the importance of relationship management, and the delicate balance between work and personal life. Don't miss out on this engaging conversation packed with practical advice and personal anecdotes.
Topics
Introduction to Ramsay Brown and his role at...
2024-06-0341 minOn the FlywheelDetails are the differenceIn this episode, I chat with Kyle Masterpole, the founder of The Bay Fitness. Kyle shares his journey from working at Dairy Queen in high school to becoming a strength and conditioning coach for college athletes and ultimately starting his own mobile fitness business. We discuss the unique aspects of his business, the importance of detailed observation and personalized training, and how he maintains a work-life balance. Join us as we delve into the world of mobile fitness and learn from Kyle's experiences and insights.
Links & Resources:
Kyle Mastropole - The Bay Fitness
Jonathan Mahrt...
2024-05-2035 minOn the FlywheelWhy the quality of your network mattersWelcome back to On the Flywheel! In episode 3, we dive into an engaging conversation with Matthew Larrabure, who shares his unique journey from running a hot dog cart in college to becoming a successful financial advisor. Matthew recounts his early entrepreneurial ventures, the importance of setting clear goals, and the impact of surrounding yourself with good people. He also provides insights into managing work-life balance, the role of continuous learning, and his quirky coffee routine. This episode is packed with practical advice and personal stories that will inspire anyone looking to find their path to success.
Links
2024-05-1346 minOn the FlywheelHow building processes creates a foundation for successShow Notes
On the Flywheel is a weekly podcast hosted by Jonathan Mahrt of Flywheel Consulting where each week we talk to entrepreneurs and professionals about the practical things they do to build and maintain momentum in their personal and professional lives.
In episode 2 of On the Flywheel, we sit down with guest Stephen McNeil, EVP of Strategic Partners & Programs at TRUE Network Advisors. He brings us on his unusual career journey from helping run his family’s insurance business to helping sell the company to a larger firm, and finally his experience then working fo...
2024-05-0542 minOn the FlywheelWhy selling is about relationships, not transactionsEpisode Notes
On the Flywheel is a podcast hosted by Jonathan Mahrt of Flywheel Consulting where we talk to entrepreneurs and professionals about the practical things they do to keep and build momentum in their personal and professional lives.
On episode 001, we talk to Dan Ancheta, President of Sequence Mortgage. Join us as Dan shares his journey from entrepreneurial ventures like owning a CrossFit gym to leading a growing mortgage business. Learn how he streamlines complex processes, creates repeatable business systems, and uses technology to enhance user experiences in the mortgage industry. Most importantly, we...
2024-04-2739 min
Marin - Sonoma Shop Local! Podcast011 - Flywheel Consulting, PetalumaJonathan Mahrt, Owner of Flywheel Consulting, joins the podcast to talk about his mission to speed up daily processes for local businesses. His old school "hand shake agreement" from growing up helping manage his family farm brings about his small town feel with BIG savings he allows his clients to make by implementing the latest technologies to make their company growth a more streamlined process. To learn more about Flywheel Consulting visit flywheelconsulting.co
2024-04-2627 min