We’ve got a fun episode of Adventures in Business for you today: Amani and Mandi are answering your questions in this Ask Me Anything episode! They’re sharing it all, from their favorite Thanksgiving foods to their plans for their business in 2025. Read on to learn their wins from 2024, their favorite and most exotic venues, the tech stack they use for podcasting, and Mandi’s advice to anyone who’s been in their industry for a while.
Looking Forward to 2025
Mandi is excited about growing the Adventures in Business YouTube channel, especially after a viral YouTube short from a recent episode with Tracy Judge. She hints at a potential live event, envisioning a variety show-style experience, and maybe even a trade show.
Mandi loves being on a stage and helping people, and believes that interactive experiences draw in bigger audiences. Additionally, Adventures in Business is looking for a new social media manager to manage their LinkedIn and Instagram presence.
Amani foresees refining the podcast's look, and its video and audio quality. He’s looking at pursuing partnerships and sponsors now that the show has hit 100 episodes. 2025 is looking bright as the podcast continues to grow!
2024 Reflections: Amani and Mandi’s Wins
When reflecting on 2024, Mandi shares how much she loves being on stage. Speaking at events and engaging with audiences has been a highlight of the year for her, especially when people share how her advice has impacted their business success. Mandi is also celebrating her healthiest year yet!
Amani adds that his upcoming book release in early 2025 is a major milestone, alongside goals to secure more coaching clients. He’s started a new hobby (pickleball) and keeps up his fitness on his Peloton. Amani also plans to explore two new cities in 2025, though he's open to suggestions.
Favorite Venues and Unexpected Locations
Mandi and Amani also chat about the most unique venues they've worked in. Amani recalls events at the Peterson Automobile Museum and a campground near Santa Barbara, while Mandi shares her experience at a stunning German castle with string quartets, champagne in the garden, and performers in elaborate costumes (very fancy!).
Hotel Commission Disputes and Best Practices
A listener, Hiromi, asked a question about how hotel disputes can impact commission when guests face issues like hot water outages. Mandi explained that the commission should not be affected by hotel maintenance problems. She recommended including a service clause in contracts that says any compensation for hotel issues should come from the hotel’s error budget, not from the commission owed to the booking agent.
Podcasting Tech Stack: Tools of the Trade
Another listener, Dean, asked about the Adventures in Business podcasting tech stack. Here are the tools Amani shared:
OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) for streaming
Libsyn for podcast distribution
Adobe Premiere Pro for video editing
Ableton Live for audio editing
Restream for broadcasting on multiple platforms
Sony a6000 camera and Audio-Technica microphone for video and audio quality
Zoom H6 for audio interface
Slack to coordinate with the podcast production team
Memorable and Exotic Events
When asked about the most exotic or elaborate events they've been involved in, Amani shared stories from his dual role as a DJ and moderator. He DJed the opening reception for the California Charter School Association, and then moderated a panel discussion with 2,000 attendees. Amani also mentioned his involvement in an event with bestselling author Daniel Pink, where he introduced Pink on stage.
Holiday Traditions: The Ceremony of Thorns
Mandi and Amani shared their holiday traditions with their families, and Mandi explained her family’s favorite tradition: the Ceremony of the Thorns.
This happens the night before Thanksgiving, and the family members talk about challenges from the year, the lessons they’ve learned, and let go of what’s no longer serving them.
A Look Back at Lessons Learned
Mandi shared her favorite failure of 2024: a time at the start of the year when she struggled to keep up with client communications (which was very unlike her). This experience taught her the importance of having backup plans and clear communication when she’s unavailable.
Always Give Back
Mandi wrapped up this special episode by sharing one of the greatest things she’s seen leaders do this week: Give back.
It doesn’t have to be money. She says that you can share your time, your skills, or your connections to help someone else get a leg up. If you're going to a conference, you can invite somebody that might not be able to afford the conference and sponsor them. Or maybe you’re a senior position in an industry, and you can give a junior person 30 minutes of your time to help them build their personal brand.
If you're 40 or older and you’ve been in your industry for more than 10 years, Mandi encourages listeners to look for opportunities to give back unconditionally.
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