Making Your Business Run Like Clockwork With M. Michalowicz

070 Making Your Business Run Like Clockwork With Mike Michalowicz

In this episode, I sit down with Mike Michalowicz whose book Profit First changed the way I see money in my business, how I look at profits, and how I pay myself. Mike talks about his new book Clockwork, his mission to serve underdog entrepreneurs, why he had to scrap three years of work and start over, and his goal of eradicating entrepreneurial poverty.

We also dive into the common thread between all businesses that make them efficient, why you must pay yourself first, how your relationship with your business is similar to that of conjoined twins, and what would change in your business after implementing the Clockwork methodology.

This was an awesome discussion with Mike I hope you enjoy. Now let’s jump right in and get to the straight talk!

More...

The Queen Bee Role is the critical heart of the business. We need to protect it. We need to strengthen it and as we protect it and strengthen it, the whole chain strengthens. ~ Mike MichalowiczClick To Tweet

What You'll Discover In This Episode:

The Necessity Of Your Business Being Able To Run Itself In Your Absence
How A Digital Disconnect May Be Just What Your Business Needs
How Serving Your Business’ QBR Role Can Turn Your Business Around
Why You Need To Start Planning Your Exit Strategy Now
So Much More!

Important Resources & Links From This Episode:

Clockwork.life

Clockwork

Profit First

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

About The Guest:

Mike is the author of Profit First, Surge, The Pumpkin Plan, and his newest release Clockwork. By his 35th birthday, Mike had founded and sold two companies - one to private equity and another to a Fortune 500. Today he is running his third multi-million dollar venture, Profit First Professionals.

Mike is a former small business columnist for The Wall Street Journal and the former business makeover specialist on MSNBC. Over the years, Mike has traveled the globe speaking with thousands of entrepreneurs and is here today to share the best of what he has learned.

Thanks For Tuning In!

There are so many great podcasts out there and you chose to listen to Productivity Straight Talk today. I sincerely appreciate you tuning in! I hope you received some valuable tips or strategies on how you can take consistent, massive, focused action in your business and life!

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please share it by using the social media buttons found at the top or bottom of this page.

Also, please consider taking a minute to rate the podcast and leave an honest review on iTunes.

Lastly, if you want to be updated whenever an episode goes live, don’t forget to subscribe to Productivity Straight Talk on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Google Play, iHeart Radio or tunein.

Until next time, have a productive day!

Leave a Reply:

Demire's Episode was superb!!!
August 10, 2018 by Ozzie0809 from Philippines
I highly recommend listening to Demir's episode of Lifehack Bootcamp!!!!
Such an incredible podcast!
August 8, 2018 by harleemai from United States
Amber is so personable and makes hard hitting, important topics so easy to follow. I especially loved her recent interview with Demir Bentley - such an interesting episode!
Love it!
August 8, 2018 by magraldo from United States
Great podcast! Loved the Demir Bentley episode, so inspiring!
Actionable & inspiring
August 5, 2018 by ccgoenka from United States
Listened to the episdode with Demir Bentley and absolutely loved it! Amber is a fab host and she brings in the best guests.
Incredibly insightful!
August 5, 2018 by Demirucb from United States
I love how Amber interviews - she guides the conversation but it never feels stale. And her personal observations are always on point! Definitely a must for someone looking to stay sharp with their productivity.
Best productivity podcast
July 20, 2018 by drkatem from Australia
I listen to a number of productivity podcasts but this is by far the best - lots of very practical ideas and tips to take away and use.
Immediate impact!
July 19, 2018 by Kjm2629 from United States
As my business grows I know I need to find a new approach to be more efficient and effective with my time — but I wasn’t sure where to start. I’m so thankful I heard about this podcast. Every single episode I’ve listened to so far has helped me get on the right track to make the most of the time I have each day. After just a few weeks I am already so much more productive using the tools and structure Amber provides.
So Much Valuable Information!
July 17, 2018 by Deanna Gillingham from United States
I love this podcast. I keep finding so much to take action on that I need to stop what I'm doing while listening and take notes. This is more like a course than a podcast. I get useful gems in each episode which really surprised me. As someone who has been working on productivity for years I thought I heard it all, lol!
Productivity Hacks Galore
July 17, 2018 by Karen Briscoe, Author from United States
Achieve a higher level of success in business and life! Amber De La Garza is a true Productivity Specialist! Karen Briscoe, author and podcast host "5 Minute Success"
How to Improve Personal Productivity and Time
July 17, 2018 by CKingLasVegas from United States
Amber as always hits it out of the park. Her topics apply to anyone no matter what they do in life for a career or for that matter just in your daily life. She's passioniate on her topics and passoiniate about motivating others to become the best they can be! Truly an amazing Podcast! Share her thoughts with your friends and family they will be blown away!!
Impactful, Actionable Advice
July 16, 2018 by Angie TB from United States
I LOVE the Productivity Straight Talk podcast and all of the expertise Amber brings to it! It is one of my favorite shows because I walk away from every episode with something I can DO in my business to move it forward. Amber offers the perfect balance of a kick in the pants with a large dose of encouragement and support!
Excellent!
July 12, 2018 by L Gilpatrick from United States
I’ve been listening to Amber’s podcast for four months and her approach to productivity has had a tremendous impact on my work activity. I listen to her podcasts almost daily to get my mindset fixed on productivity as I drive to work. I recommend this for anyone who is ready to take responsibility for their success. She helps you identify mindset changes and habit changes to get your business in motion.
Worth Every Star!
June 18, 2018 by Graysonip from United States
So grateful I found this podcast. Full of excellent content. I’m immediately implementing Amber’s advice in my law practice. Thank you!
Great actionnable tips
June 15, 2018 by Smilesupersam from France
What I love about Amber’s podcast, is the actionnable strategies and tips, you identify immediately with the content and find ways you can apply them to your struggle. Also, I’m a fan of the way she delivers her speech ^^
Energizing, thoughtful & rewarding!
June 13, 2018 by hgreig from United States
What a great find! I personally have been seeking to become less stressed and more productive in my life. Amber's ability to bring thoughtful content in each episode, which relates to many aspects of my work load, is refreshing. I look forward to her energy, honesty and constant striving for tools to make this busy world a more productive place!
Amber is flat out AMAZING!
May 24, 2018 by Valorie Davidson from United States
As a business owner, there are a lot of moving parts. The cliche of ‘cannot see the forest for the trees’ has been applicable for myself and my business . Amber is extremely skilled at helping you step back and look at how you can make your business more efficient and your life more balanced. Her knowledge and years of experience will not only help you move your business forward but also a great resource for personal development.
Straight forward and no nonsense.
May 4, 2018 by WARREN RAY from United States
Amazed at the practical and useful info I was able to pull from just the first few episodes. Subscribed straight away!
Fantastic podcast
April 11, 2018 by Maxi star from Australia
Thanks for a great weekly podcast. Got my tax done in a day after procrastinating for weeks.
A smart and sophisticated podcast
March 7, 2018 by fitJaime from United States
Straight to the point without sugar coating. Every episode has me rethinking how I do business and how I spend my time. A must listen -- this podcast has become my Monday afternoon commute ritual. Keep up the great content Amber!
Top Podcast for Business Owners!
March 2, 2018 by Casey Jade Photo from United States
This podcast is top on my list for a few reasons. Amber is a Las Vegas local which means a lot to me, because she interviews a lot of entrepreneurs in my community and I can learn more about what is going on in my city. Secondarily, her podcast is all about productivity and interviewing business professionals on their productivity habits. Best of all, at the end of each podcast she encourages you to take action on the information you received. She doesn't do this just for you to listen as say "Oh, yes that sounds nice." She wants you to succeed and be more productive in your business. As business owners, we all take in as much information as we can, but most of us lack on the follow through of implementing and taking action. After listening to Amber's productivity tips, you will want to rush to your workspace and start taking immediate changes. Amber switches the format from interviews with productive industry professionals to solo podcasts where she gives you tips and tricks to succeed in everyday business. She is clear, concise, and has a slight sarcastic tone, which engages me and keeps me excited for each week's episode.
A real specialist!
February 8, 2018 by drmaggiedominguez from United States
Amber’s podcast is wonderful! I have been teaching college level time management, critical thinking, and productivity for 15 years and I learn something new from Amber’s podcast each time I listen. Either she reminds me of critical content that we always need to remember or a new way to implement something. I highly recommend this podcast to all!
Productivity Hacks Galore
January 19, 2018 by Karen Briscoe, Author from United States
Achieve a higher level of success in business and life! Amber De La Garza is a true Productivity Specialist!
Fun and informative
November 26, 2017 by CarolMorganCox from United States
Amber is the real deal - smart, fun, and knowledgeable. Her podcast episodes are always full of actionable insights and stories to learn from.
So inspiring!
November 20, 2017 by Dewpoint Communications from United States
I love this podcast! Amber has forgotten more about productivity than I’ll ever know, and I get so much new, useful info out of every episode that I can apply right away to help me grow my business. Thank you, Amber!
Productivity Hacks Galore
November 7, 2017 by Mega Agent and Author from United States
Achieve a higher level of success in business and life! Amber De La Garza is a true Productivity Specialist
So much insight!
November 1, 2017 by SheConnex-Shelli Warren from Canada
You'll simply not believe this is a NEW podcast. Amber's style feels so seasoned, so easy, and so insightful as she shares tips, tactics, trends, & technology to help you be a productive biz owner. You'll want to hit the replay and take notes!
Myths debunked and clear strategies given!
October 24, 2017 by LaraCurrie from United States
I look forward to Amber’s podcast each week. As a scattered ENFP entrepreneur I appreciate her diving into all the various aspects of productive, and the myths around any one “right way” to be productive. Great podcast.
Transaction Coordinator
October 23, 2017 by J Keech - TransactionPlace One from United States
Time is our greatest value in both our personal and professional lives. Yet time is not a commodity we can trade. When it's gone, it's gone. The information, training and support coming out of The Productivity Spcialist is incredible! My entire day is focused on promoting a real estate agents need to stay in a sales mode, rather than operations. Amber's topics, hints and routines provide me with the ammunition to keep my agents accountable and highly productive.
An amazing podcast for entrepreneurs!
October 6, 2017 by OrganizedFix from United States
Amber has put together such a great show! Every episode is packed full of practical advice that you can put into action right away!
Just right
September 29, 2017 by Zweeit gammey from United States
Amber has a mind for productivity and understands all of our unproductive ways and cluttered businesses. Her podcasts are brief and powerful nuggets of information that help me make tweaks to my business for the better. Thanks Amber!
I love this show! Practical tips on taking action & getting productive
September 26, 2017 by HollyEW from United Kingdom
I love Amber's super practical tips on productivity. I also love that she urges listeners to take action at the end of every episode. She's got great tips and a great personality, and I highly recommend this show. Entertaining and educational!
Insightful and valuable podcast
September 19, 2017 by Mr work smarter from United States
Loving the episodes. Always learning something new. Looking forward to future episodes.
Recommend!
August 29, 2017 by Erica Mandy from United States
Super helpful show to keep you on track! Love the actionable tips and the friendly conversation. Motivating and pleasant to listen to. Thanks Amber!
Straight Shooting Advice
August 24, 2017 by Courtney Townley from United States
Amber has a very refreshing approach to helping entreprenuers navigate challenges with productivity. She is a great speaker, teacher and fire starter for those who are seeking to take back control over their business and life. Highly recommended.
Love this!
August 24, 2017 by kkrimitsos from United States
This is such a helpful show! Thanks for sharing this Amber!
This one stands out from among the rest
August 24, 2017 by Ikkibu77 from United States
With direct content and relatable and easy to apply wisdom.
Love it
August 6, 2017 by RJeezy2324 from United States
Browsing on what to do or watch on business success, I see all these covers, and here I see this chick with just sarcasm all over her face, so of course I must see what she's all about. So I glance through her list of episodes, I have to say, I don't swear, which is why episode 11 caught my eye. I love that Amber keeps it real, and it's so true! Planning and not letting one task slowly lap over another sneaks up on you. I'll be starting from episode one to see what else she has in store. ??
New view on productivity
August 2, 2017 by NVIsela from United States
It is refreshing to hear her break down what she think improves productivity. Not jut a quick fix but a mindset shift for long term results. I can't wait to keep learning from her.
Overwhelmed entrepreneurs
August 2, 2017 by VLopezNV1 from United States
I stumbled upon this podcast and I am so happy I did. I have implemented what Amber shared in her time blocking episode and found it to be so helpful. I have tried time blocking so many times but this time I feel it is working much better. This is an excellent podcast for overwhelmed entrepreneurs!
A Great Addition to the Productivity Podcast Space
July 31, 2017 by ErikJFisher - BTTDL from United States
Not everyone learns the same way, and there is no one size fits all approach to productivity. This show is a welcome addition to the existing realm of productivity podcasts!
Practical Passionate Productivity
July 10, 2017 by T_Adams from United States
It is obvious Amber is passionate about helping entrepreneurs pursue and succesfully fulfill their dreams. She takes information we may have already heard or would seem common sense and explains it with a motivational spin in a way that makes you think. Amber is relatable, has an edge, and is easy to understand and follow, keeping your attention. She delivers useful information in a practical way to help anyone become more productive.
I always learn something
July 10, 2017 by kullistener from United States
I love listening to Amber's podcasts... She is a straight shooter with a sense of humor and a quick wit. Her tips and info always hit home with me. Sometimes it's like she is in my head and knows just what I need to hear.
Stuff I can use right away
July 3, 2017 by Eayjbfukmvdddh from United States
Amber's show is short and sweet and it gives me easy ideas for boosting my productivity that I can implement immediately and easily.
Can't wait to hear more!!
June 29, 2017 by Alwaysgrow from United States
As a busy entrepreneur I don't often take time for podcasts especially when they often feel monotonous, but Amber's podcast not only caught my ear, but kept me coming back to hear more! She has new and valuable insight for all of us entrepreneurs! Plus her delivery shows that shes a really passionate bada** & has a lot of things we need to hear! Well done Amber, I'll be back soon <3
Implementing Amber's advice has helped me increase my productivity ten-fold!
June 28, 2017 by Family Health 360 from United States
Want to be more productive in your business and personal life? Then Amber's Productivity Straight Talk podcast is a "must subscribe to" on your podcast play list. Implementing Amber's practical and specific productivity advice has increased productivity ten-fold. Amber's podcast is fun and refreshing to listen to. Her balance in rotating between interviewing experts and her individual episodes is a great format! She has an amazing ability to highlight what has made others productive and then brings it home to help you understand how you can do that too. In Amber's individual episodes, she shares her productivity advice with authority and real-life experiences. The best part of the Produtivity Straight Talk podcast is that Amber gives you actionable steps to increasing your productivity in your own business and personal life that really work!
Straight (and Sassy) Biz Advice
June 27, 2017 by Lexinic from United States
Amber's podcast packs so much punch. She's already snagged some great guests - and has great rapport with them. Her tips are actionable, relevant and effective, and her voice is incredibly appealing. I highly recommend.
Great Content!!
June 27, 2017 by Traci Human from United States
Great content on Productivity Straight Talk! I feel like Amber is speaking directly to ME!!
Tackling Your Goals With Tactical Precision
June 27, 2017 by 2GetJohn from United States
There are many people who can offer tips on improving productivity. But, Amber De La Garza goes beyond just sharing tips and connects with her listeners to help them think and act productively. It is the productivity version of the adage, "Teach a person to fish." Listen in and you will be fed great information and techniques. Connect and become a regular and learn to be the person who can find your own solutions, your own growth and yes, your most productive self. Slow down to go fast. Don't get it? Listen and you will.
Makes Being Productive Fun and Easy
June 26, 2017 by MarkSASmith from United States
Amber's interesting insights and thoughtful guests make it easy to be the best person you can be, not just for your job, but for you. Energetic, irreverent, practical, and fun this quick and easy listen deserves a spot on your podcast list.
Great Podcast for Entrepreneurs and Business Owners
June 26, 2017 by Jano444 from United States
Amber is passionate about and an expert on this topic! This podcast is on my regular listening schedule because it is packed with actionable tips and strategies to maximize productivity and your time. The episodes include her best coaching & consulting advice to interviews with other experts and thought leaders. Highly recommend it!
The Real Deal for Productivity!
June 26, 2017 by Rawvibing from United States
This is definitely an informative and easy to listen to Podcast. This show isn't simply motivational speaches to inspire, there are some solid actionable lessons that you can pull from the content that will help you make the right changes in your business to be more successful. Knolwedge is NOT power until it is applied. SO BE PRODUCTIVE AND APPLY THIS KNOWLEDGE!!!
Highly recommended!
June 22, 2017 by Jeff Civillico from United States
Amber has a fresh honesty to her that makes her podcast very enjoyable to listen to. She obviously knows her subject very well, and shares her knowledge in a raw, vulnerable, and authentic way I found very refreshing. Great value, higly recommended!
Practical information delivered efficiently!
June 21, 2017 by Ms5tylZ from United States
This podcaster blew me away with her no nonsense approach and abundance of downright useful information. I was able to implement several of her techniques into my daily routine. Impressed with her passionate and genuine delivery. Lastly, as a content creator myself, I can appreciate the attention to detail and effort that went into the production and execution of such a high quality audio product. Great info and easy to listen to, subscribed!
This is a MUST LISTEN for anyone wanting to improve their business!
June 21, 2017 by Lindsey Butler from United States
I am so glad that Amber has now produced her own podcast!! I can share this information with my real estate network, friends, family and even clients as Amber has done an incredible job offering content that is direct, straight-to-the-point and will impower and improve YOUR life today!
Powerful and Sound Advice On Increasing Productivity
June 21, 2017 by Danny Phee in Las Vegas from United States
An amazing display of productivity in action! Great for real estate agents and small business owners who want to really take it to the next level!
Straight Up Productivity!
June 21, 2017 by nvsnapp from United States
I'm super-impressed with what Amber brings to the productivity space! She comes strong with high energy, practical advice and a passion to help people get productive on purpose. So excited to see where she takes this high-quality, high-production value podcast. -Nick Snapp, Host of The Make it Snappy Productivity Show
A True Business Rock Star.
June 7, 2017 by "Marvelless" Mark Kamp from United States
Beauty and the Beast. Amber is fierce in her approach with no BS. Just like a rockstar her content is original,useful, and entertaining. They say we learn from our mistakes but I would rather learn from other people's mistakes. Or learn from experts like Amber or the professionals she interviews. Bring it on.
Amber Rocks!
June 6, 2017 by Darren LaCroix from United States
She tells it like it is. She help clean up my business in a day. No BS, pure value. Isn't that what we want as business owners. Im careful who I listen to. I listen to Amber.
Well orgainized and thoughtful
June 4, 2017 by Mermaids4 from United States
Amber defines productivity by investing your best time into your best activities. This show is packed full of useful tips to make sure that happens. Give it a listen!
What Great Information!
June 1, 2017 by MrGlennMeier from United States
I've listened to several episodes of productivity straight talk and I can't wait for more! It feels like I'm sitting with friends talking about ideas to improve our businesses. There's no agenda being pushed beyond giving the listener real world actionable tips that they can use to really make a difference in their lives. Amber's delivery is fun, engaging, and most of all practical! I have nothing but appreciation for her and all of her guests for taking their time to put this great information out there.
Fresh and exciting with passion in her voice
May 28, 2017 by Lilburtlj from United States
Amber delivers a wonderful podcast with a fresh look at entrepreneurship, and you can hear it in her voice. I love the rotating format of delivering tips and tricks from her personal experience and sharing experiences from other entrepreneurs. Her excitement resonates in her voice and you can tell this isn't for profit but from passion. This passion project can and will help any and all young people who are looking for ways to fuel their desire to be their own boss. I love that she debunks the myths of business and nurtures all people who are looking to grow their business and brand. As a person who has read many books on business and taken many seminars, I love that she goes against the status quo and shows you ways that even when you don't fit the 9-5 mold, you can be equally productive if you put your energy and effort in the proper channels. I look forward to the podcasts to come!!
A treat for entrepreneurs
May 25, 2017 by KDizz80 from United States
I've listened to three PST episodes so far. Unlike a few other "productivity" podcasts I've listened to, this one is geared toward entrepreneurs and is loaded with tips I can implement immediately to grow my biz. It didn't push products down my throat that could potentially improve my productivity. The host has a refreshing stance on productivity I hadn't heard before. She sounds knowledgable and like she genuinely wants to help entrepreneurs get ahead.

070 | Making Your Business Run Like Clockwork With Mike Michalowicz