In The Trenches with Tom Morkes provides behind-the-scenes look into the life and work of entrepreneurs, writers, artists, warriors, and leaders.
Episodes
Tuesday Sep 10, 2024
Tuesday Sep 10, 2024
Robert Ordway grew up in a small mill town on the fringe of Gary, Indiana. He had a typical blue-collar upbringing, but all that changed when he turned 13 and his dad was diagnosed with ALS. Robert learned that adversity can come unannounced, and often, we need to prepare to handle those challenges. His worldview has been shaped by lessons from his dad, who stressed the importance of developing personal agency and possessing skin in the game in all aspects of life.
He has over 15 years of experience in public policy, civil service, and private sector work. In his free time, Robert designs custom clothing, competes in powerlifting, enjoys cycling/bikepacking, and studies the history of Northwest Indiana as it relates to Big Steel, labor unions, race relations, organized crime, prohibition, Christianity, and southern migration. He is currently writing his first book, “Millrat: A Memoir About ALS, Adversity, and the American Dream”.
In today’s episode, we dive deep into the inspiring journey of Robert Ordway, a senior policy advisor for a US senator, and owner of the image consulting company, Rusted Oak. Join us as we explore Robert's multifaceted career in Washington, DC, his advocacy for Northwest Indiana, and the long-term efforts behind his upcoming book.
In this broadcast, Robert Ordway and I talk about:
[00:00:00] Introduction to Robert Ordway - his backstory and overcoming adversity
[00:08:14] How discoveries in his personal life led Robert to jump into entrepreneurial waters
[00:10:46] Finding clarity through dealing with family history
[00:19:13] Topics that drove Robert to start writing his memoir
[00:28:26] Robert’s path into the field of politics
[00:32:05] From menswear to DC
[00:40:25] Future endeavors - writing, fundraising and more
[00:46:26] Where to get in touch with Robert Ordway and sign up for updates on his book
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Monday May 13, 2024
Monday May 13, 2024
Ridgely Goldsboro is an author, personal growth expert and a prolific founder who has initiated 45 companies. He is also a sought-after speaker and trainer who conducts fifty-plus seminars annually, as well as the creator of TSTN's Modest to Millions series, which chronicles the principles of prosperity and wealth creation according to highly successful self-made individuals.
In this episode, Ridgely discusses his experiences with navigating the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, pushing the boundaries of innovation and partnership, and leveraging AI as a game changer in today's digital landscape.
In this broadcast, Ridgely Goldsborough and I talk about:
[00:00:00] Introduction to Ridgely Goldsborough - starting 45 companies
[00:08:12] How he finds the right partners to build up his business ideas
[00:12:58] What are some of Ridgely’s biggest wins
[00:19:57] How Ridgely managed to write 20 books and his writing process looks like
[00:22:41] What are some ways to get the best possible output out of AI
[00:26:30] Which AI software is Ridgely’s partner developing and how they use it in their business
[00:28:36] Thoughts on different AI developments happening currently and their potential benefits
[00:32:59] How Ridgely chooses his clients
[00:35:17] What does he primarily use AI for when working with his clients
[00:36:18] Where to get in touch with Ridgely Goldsborough and receive a free marketing tool
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How You Can Support In The Trenches
Did you enjoy today's broadcast of In The Trenches? Please click here to leave an honest rating and review on iTunes. Your review helps me spread the word of this podcast, which allows me to line up amazing guests and continue to produce this podcast ad-free. Thanks so much in advance for your support.
Monday Apr 29, 2024
Monday Apr 29, 2024
Ryan Robinson is a veteran blogger and the brains behind the innovative AI-driven content creation tool, RightBlogger. Twelve years ago, Ryan started his blogging journey with a college assignment and has since evolved into a trusted expert in the realms of freelancing and content marketing, teaching 500,000+ monthly readers of his blog how to start their own and grow a profitable side business.
Today, Ryan will share insights into his creative process, the transition from freelancing to creating valuable tools for other creators, and the challenges and triumphs of building a business around his passion. Plus, he'll delve into the evolving landscape of AI in content creation and how he's adapting to maintain a personal touch through technology.
In this broadcast, Ryan Robinson and I talk about:
[00:00:00] Introduction to Ryan Robinson and the start and evolution of his blogging journey
[00:11:03] How he started his business “RightBlogger” while diving into the world of AI tools
[00:15:27] From inception to a successful business - how Ryan developed, marketed, and grew RightBlogger
[00:20:32] Why he offers free tools on his website instead of putting them behind a paywall
[00:22:36] What are some ways Ryan brings traffic to his website and how he generates revenue
[00:27:46] Thoughts on YouTube, reinventing yourself, and starting new creative projects
[00:36:39] How to make the most out of using AI in content creation
[00:41:35] What sets RightBlogger apart from other AI content generation tools
[00:42:53] Ryan’s thoughts on the future and advancement of AI
[00:45:17] Who can benefit from using RightBlogger
[00:48:30] Where to find and connect with Ryan Robinson
Relevant Link:
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How You Can Support In The Trenches
Did you enjoy today's broadcast of In The Trenches? Please click here to leave an honest rating and review on iTunes. Your review helps me spread the word of this podcast, which allows me to line up amazing guests and continue to produce this podcast ad-free. Thanks so much in advance for your support.
Monday Apr 15, 2024
Monday Apr 15, 2024
Damon Burton is a remarkable figure who, nearly two decades ago, outsmarted a billion-dollar company by outranking their website on Google. This victory was just the beginning for Damon, who went on to author a best-selling SEO book and establish “SEO National”, an international search engine marketing firm that boasts clients like NBA teams and businesses featured on Inc 5000 and Shark Tank.
In today's episode, we talk about dealing with the challenges of rapid growth and evolving team dynamics, as Damon unveils how to maintain quality and intentionality in an age where AI threatens to over-simplify the complexities of SEO.
In this broadcast, Damon Burton and I talk about:
[00:00:00] Introduction to Damon Burton, the start of his entrepreneurial journey
[00:07:08] Benefits and risks with Damon’s slow and steady approach to building and growing his business
[00:11:20] How detailed documentation and SOPs can simplify the hiring process, and what questions Damon uses in the hiring process
[00:14:30] What the transition from design to SEO looked like, and an interesting story that helped prompt that change
[00:20:13] What Damon’s day-to-day with his agency looks like now, and how he hired people for critical roles to be able to lessen his own workload
[00:28:36] How to maintain quality control while giving more autonomy to employees
[00:32:30] Damon’s thoughts on the role of AI and where it can be integrated in regards to SEO
[00:39:49] Damon’s plans for the future with even more freedom and quality family time
[00:43:32] Where to get in touch with Damon Burton and how to get his free book about SEO
Relevant Links:
Get the Latest Broadcasts of In The Trenches on Your Favorite Podcast Platform:
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How You Can Support In The Trenches
Did you enjoy today's broadcast of In The Trenches? Please click here to leave an honest rating and review on iTunes. Your review helps me spread the word of this podcast, which allows me to line up amazing guests and continue to produce this podcast ad-free. Thanks so much in advance for your support.
Monday Apr 01, 2024
Monday Apr 01, 2024
Danny Flood is a vibrant individual whose life experience spans a range of diverse chapters, all encapsulating an adventurous spirit and a penchant for non-traditional living. About eight years ago, you would have found him in the bustling city of Bangkok, living a life many only dream of. A pioneer in the realm of location independence, Flood was immersing himself in the digital nomad lifestyle, long before it gained mainstream recognition.
As a young man, Danny was no stranger to structure and discipline, having served in the military – an experience that shaped him in many ways. Following his service, he sought to expand his horizons and attended the Art Institute, where he earned a degree in advertising. This conventional path, which typically leads to a corporate career, didn’t quite align with Danny's ambitions.
Facing what he called a quarter-life depression, Flood was confronted with the daunting prospect of 40 years tethered to an office desk, a future that seemed an ill fit for his free spirit. It was this period of introspection that propelled him to break free from the expected and carve a path outside the constraints of a 9-to-5 job. In the time since our last conversation with Danny, his unwavering zeal for living on his own terms is still apparent. Danny Flood remains a true embodiment of the adventurous soul, an inspiration to those looking to live life unconstrained by geographical or societal expectations.
In this episode, we will unpack the toolkit of modern entrepreneurs. Today's conversation spans the gamut from automating social media engagement to validating business ideas using organic methods. Plus, if you're quick, there might just be a discount code waiting for those eager to sign up for Danny's membership—reach out, and you might snag that opportunity!
In this broadcast, Danny Flood and I talk about (timestamps):
[00:00:00] Introduction to Danny Flood, his beginnings, and how he got into growth hacking
[00:04:19] Danny’s experience with growth hacking on Appsumo
[00:08:40] How he launched a co-living space for remote workers and entrepreneurs in Greece
[00:12:00] What tools he used to recreate a similar retreat in Nepal and market it to reach as many people as possible
[00:15:12] How he uses Facebook groups as free marketing for efficient lead generation
[00:18:10] Benefits of traveling and working remotely
[00:24:09] Danny’s tips for travel hacking and saving money while traveling
[00:27:35] How he used AI to build out a site for digital nomads
[00:32:01] How to use AI to create more freedom in work and life
[00:39:32] Danny’s recommendations playing with AI and building useful knowledge and skill
[00:42:39] Where to get in touch with Danny Flood and his gift for listeners of In the Trenches
Relevant Links:
Get the Latest Broadcasts of In The Trenches on Your Favorite Podcast Platform:
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How You Can Support In The Trenches
Did you enjoy today's broadcast of In The Trenches? Please click here to leave an honest rating and review on iTunes. Your review helps me spread the word of this podcast, which allows me to line up amazing guests and continue to produce this podcast ad-free. Thanks so much in advance for your support.
Monday Jan 29, 2024
Monday Jan 29, 2024
Noah Kagan is the founder of AppSumo, dubbed the premier software deal site for solopreneurs, and 8 other million-dollar businesses. He is an entrepreneur with a keen eye for unique business angles and the innate ability to transform the ordinary into extraordinary revenue streams. In his book “Million Dollar Weekend”, Kagan brought to light the company's behind-the-scenes strategies.
These insightful revelations cemented Kagan's reputation as an innovative storyteller in the digital marketplace. His approach is laced with a no-nonsense attitude, challenging others to look within and extract their unique selling points.
Noah's story exemplifies how, with the right perspective, even the commonplace elements of a business can be repackaged into bestsellers, encouraging entrepreneurs to reexamine the overlooked facets of their operations for hidden gems of opportunity.
In this broadcast, Noah Kagan and I talk about (timestamps):
[00:00:00] Introduction to Noah Kagan and his book “Million Dollar Weekend”
[00:03:37] Thoughts on dealing with self-doubt and finding pride in your work.
[00:06:20] How he has implemented his “Now not How” approach in his own company, as well as used it to help others find success in their business ventures.
[00:10:42] Noah’s advice to entrepreneurs who are unsure where to focus their energy.
[00:16:50] How to create excitement in your business by making boring tasks interesting.
[00:18:31] Advice on not letting incomplete projects weigh you down and living the life you want to live.
[00:20:17] How small and achievable goals lead to successful outcomes.
Relevant Links:
Get the Latest Broadcasts of In The Trenches on Your Favorite Podcast Platform:
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How You Can Support In The Trenches
Did you enjoy today's broadcast of In The Trenches? Please click here to leave an honest rating and review on iTunes. Your review helps me spread the word of this podcast, which allows me to line up amazing guests and continue to produce this podcast ad-free. Thanks so much in advance for your support.
Monday Jan 22, 2024
Monday Jan 22, 2024
Robbie Samuels is an accomplished networking expert who has dedicated over a decade to teaching people the art of networking at conferences and events. After years of balancing his day job with speaking engagements, Robbie took the bold step of quitting his job to focus on networking full-time. This led him to create his own podcast, "On the Schmooze," which he has been hosting since its launch in 2016.
In 2017, Robbie released his first book, which focused on networking events and became a valuable resource for professionals seeking to build meaningful connections. His expertise and contributions didn't stop there - Robbie ran a successful group coaching program, authored articles for Harvard Business Review, and was even invited to give a TEDx talk.
Everything seemed to be falling into place for Robbie, however, just two months after his TEDx talk was published in January 2020, the pandemic struck, and the world shifted. Suddenly, networking became a challenge as everyone found themselves confined to their homes.
Despite the unforeseen circumstances, Robbie's passion for networking remained unwavering. He adapted to the new virtual landscape and continued to share his insights and strategies online, helping individuals navigate the world of remote networking. Robbie's story is a testament to his resilience and determination to empower others, proving that even in the face of adversity, networking remains a crucial skill for personal and professional growth.
In this broadcast, Robbie Samuels and I talk about (timestamps):
[00:00:00] Introduction to Robbie Samuels
[00:02:33] How he got to the belief that 10k a month is easy to earn, and how he is helping other people to achieve the same.
[00:08:29] Benefits of learning new things and teaching others while being only a few steps ahead.
[00:13:05] How to quickly adapt and experiment through unpredictable situations to align with the needs of clients.
[00:17:22] Discussing AI tools and their potential for value.
[00:19:47] How to generate interest and convert it into sustained following and deeper connections.
[00:29:01] Why embracing online engagement in small niches can lead to new ideas and opportunities.
[00:32:45] Robbie’s tips for leading Zoom calls and increasing engagement.
[00:37:09] Discussing online and in-person event planning - what are some mistakes people make and how Robbie helps solve them.
[00:46:33] Where to get in touch with Robbie Samuels.
Relevant Links:
Get the Latest Broadcasts of In The Trenches on Your Favorite Podcast Platform:
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How You Can Support In The Trenches
Did you enjoy today's broadcast of In The Trenches? Please click here to leave an honest rating and review on iTunes. Your review helps me spread the word of this
Monday Jan 15, 2024
Monday Jan 15, 2024
Jane Duncan Rogers is an accomplished author, entrepreneur, and award-winning Life and Death coach. She is passionate about creating a world where dying, death, and grief are considered a natural, normal, and nourishing part of the conversation, with end-of-life plans becoming as commonplace as birth plans.
In today's conversation, we dive into Jane's journey from a self-published book to a thriving 6-figure business. We explore her experiences in the longevity space, her personal memoir, "Gifted by Grief," and the birth of her company, Before I Go Solutions. Jane shares her insights on end of life planning, the importance of leaving a legacy, and the training she offers for individuals interested in becoming end of life plan facilitators.
I hope you enjoy today's conversation, and if you do, please share this interview with others, and leave a review on iTunes, Spotify, or wherever else you're listening to this.
[00:00:00] Introduction to Jane Duncan Rogers and the story of how she wrote and published her book “Gifted by Grief”.
[00:03:58] How her passion project educating people on end of life planning became her company “Before I Go Solutions”.
[00:08:04] On developing her legacy through courses, facilitator training, workbooks etc.
[00:11:12] Who is Jane’s clientele and how she defined the market for her business?
[00:16:03] Jane talks about what the End of Life Program is like and some of the unexpected planning and decision-making people might not know about.
[00:21:21] Jane talks about the future of the end of life market, as well as her plans for the future, both in business and writing.
[00:25:57] Where to get in touch with Jane Duncan Rogers - to learn more, get her books or work with her.
Relevant Links:
Get the Latest Broadcasts of In The Trenches on Your Favorite Podcast Platform:
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How You Can Support In The Trenches
Did you enjoy today's broadcast of In The Trenches? Please click here to leave an honest rating and review on iTunes. Your review helps me spread the word of this podcast, which allows me to line up amazing guests and continue to produce this podcast ad-free. Thanks so much in advance for your support.
Wednesday Aug 16, 2023
Wednesday Aug 16, 2023
Nicholas Todd Bullock (NT Bullock) is the founder of Sequential Pictures. He is a filmmaker who discovered his passion for creating videos long before the advent of YouTube. In the mid-90s, he got hold of his father's camcorder and fell in love with capturing moments on camera. Despite the limitations of the time, like the absence of editing software like Final Cut Pro or access to free training and tutorials (again -- this was pre-YouTube), Bullock persevered. He worked multiple jobs to save up for a computer and a video capture card, recorded tons of skits and short films with his friends, and eventually published his work online -- and went viral with one of his first parodies published on youtube: "STAR WARS: A Lost Hope".
Since then, he's filmed and produced dozens of short films, parodies, and skits, as well as feature films.
In today's conversation, Todd shares his 'origin story', how he got started in film, what inspired him to create and publish these skits and parodies, what the reception has been, including the ups and downs of being a creator in a world that tends to hammer those who are inventive (including, in my words, YouTube's crazy and unfair copyright "standards", shadowbanning, and more).
We also talk about Todd's recent near-death experience (including multiple trips to the ER, 17 days in the hospital, and losing weight till he weighed only 89 pounds), how this has impacted his career, and how he's rebounding (including what's coming next from him).
As an aside, if you feel compelled to support Todd, you can find a gofundme for his health challenges here, and hopefully, I've inspired him to set up a Patreon account, which may be live in the near future.
I hope you enjoy today's conversation, and if you do, please share this interview with others, and leave a review on iTunes, Spotify, or wherever else you're listening to this.
In this broadcast, NT Bullock and I talk about (timestamps):
[00:00:00] Intro to the filmmaker NT Bullock
[00:08:39] NT Bullock's journey, early online success, and learning process.
[00:17:17] How learning and adapting online facilitates the creative process.
[00:20:57] The challenges with measuring or projecting the time to complete a project (and why NT Bullock focuses on "getting the job done" instead of hitting specific 'metrics')
[00:27:35] The early days, the struggle to monetize content, and how he found success.
[00:39:33] How NT Bullock got started with paid film gigs (including car commercials), how he financed his movies, and why he prefers making shorts over feature length films.
[00:46:32] Why NT Bullock doesn't use Pateon (but should!)
[00:53:06] YouTube's unfair copyright policies and why they limit revenue and visibility.
[00:57:58] The challenges of making and selling creative projects (or the pain of commercializing art)
[01:11:41] Redubs, the Dune film, and what inspires NT Bullock's art.
[01:15:43] Health struggles, his near-death experience, business setbacks, and the uncertain future.
[01:24:03] Wrap up and what's coming next
Monday Sep 20, 2021
Monday Sep 20, 2021
Justin Brooks is the founder of Adskills.com, the world's largest online school for digital advertising. His company teaches advertisers how to install proven campaign frameworks and training the next generation of media buyers and connecting them with great clients or jobs.
Today, we’re gonna dive into his experiments and forays into “pay what you want” pricing, what he loves about it, what has worked well, and also what hasn’t.
In this broadcast, Justin and I talk about:
- Justin’s company AdSkills and how long he’s been in the business of selling courses
- What payment model he prefers to use when delivering his services
- Justin’s foray into “pay what you want” pricing
- How the “pay what you want” pricing model surpassed “free plus shipping” in a split test and what happened when he introduced “bump selling”
- Some of his other findings from the split test experiments
- How he utilized “pay what you want” to boost sales and draw in customers at a coffee shop meetup
- What is Justin’s philosophy behind which product to offer as “pay what you want”
- “Pay what you want” as a way to acquire great testimonials and happy customers
- Ways to incentivize a higher contribution when using a “pay what you want” model
- How “pay what you want” changed Justin’s life and business
- Some things he wishes he knew before he started using this pricing model and the biggest surprises he encountered while using it
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How You Can Support In The Trenches
Did you enjoy today's broadcast of In The Trenches? Please click here to leave an honest rating and review on iTunes. Your review helps me spread the word of this podcast, which allows me to line up amazing guests and continue to produce this podcast ad-free. Thanks so much in advance for your support.
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