Special Ops with Emma Rainville

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-poteet-43098ba

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

How to Unplug as a Founder: Let Your Business Run While on Vacation Aug 26, 2025

You didn’t build a business — you built a job.

If stepping away from your company causes chaos, you haven’t built a business — you’ve built yourself a glorified job. In this episode, Emma Rainville breaks down the systems, mindset, and ruthless leadership decisions required to create a business that actually runs without you. She shares how she turned a vacation disaster into a team transformation — and how that shift now allows her to unplug for a month without worrying the place will burn.

This is the tactical blueprint for founder freedom, from someone who’s done the hard reset and rebuilt smarter.

We cover:

The 6–8 week “no CEO” stress test for your business
How Emma rebuilt her team to be self-reliant after vacation burnout
The exact delegation system that lets her disappear without fear
Why letting your team make mistakes is your highest leverage play
Her formula for unplugging 65+ days a year without slowing growth

Timestamps

(0:00) You didn’t build a business. You built a job.

(1:30) Dream vacation gone wrong: when your team can’t function

(3:45) The hard truth: fire fast, delegate faster

(6:10) The psychology behind letting your team fail

(8:00) The system that lets her take a month off

(10:15) The anti–9 to 5 mindset: why Emma works 300+ days a year

(11:55) Visionary Vault: free guide to turning your business from trap to freedom

Ready to stop being your business’s bottleneck? Grab the 5-step guide to building systems that set you free — now inside the Visionary Vault. It’s free. No fluff. No pitch. Just tactical execution tools.

Explore Free Resources inside the Visionary Vault:

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

Is Your Cookie Banner a Legal Trap? Here’s How to Fix It Before the FTC Does Aug 22, 2025

If your cookie banner has one-click "accept" but a buried opt-out, you're not compliant — you're exposed.

In this high-risk episode of Marketing on Trial, Emma Rainville and FTC attorney Ryan Poteet break down the real legal stakes behind cookie banners — and why most marketers are still getting it wrong. As Google confirms its Privacy Sandbox rollout by 2026 and California’s regulators sharpen enforcement, your tracking stack and banner design could be liabilities waiting to be litigated.

We dissect the FTC’s position on “dark patterns,” California’s symmetry-of-choice mandate, and the massive fines already hitting brands using deceptive consent flows. Plus: what OneTrust-style consent tracking tools must now include, and how to fix noncompliant legacy funnels before they become class action bait.

We cover:

What “symmetry of choice” actually requires in 2025 (2:01)
How to audit your cookie banners against FTC and CPRA design rules (4:10)
Back-end tools for consent tracking: what’s defensible vs. noncompliant (7:26)
The truth about placing cookies before consent (10:34)
The real legal consequences: AG action, FTC scrutiny, and class-action risk (11:55)
Final checklist to make your funnel cookie-compliant now (12:50)

(0:00) Introduction: Cookie-based marketing is collapsing

(2:01) Why consent isn’t just a checkbox

(4:10) Designing legally safe cookie banners: California’s standard

(7:26) Consent tracking tools (OneTrust and alternatives)

(10:34) Illegal placements: when are cookies actually set?

(11:55) Consequences: six-figure fines and class actions

(12:50) Audit checklist & Visionary Vault toolkit

Grab your Cookie-less Compliance Toolkit inside the Visionary Vault to fix your tracking flows before regulators fix them for you. Free, instant access. No upsells — just defense.

Explore Free Resources at the Visionary Vault:

Get in Touch with Ryan Poteet:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-poteet-43098ba

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

Texas Just Changed SMS Rules and It’s Wild! — Here's what you need to know Aug 19, 2025

If you're texting Texas residents, you may already be breaking the law — and the state’s not playing around.

In this Special Ops mini-episode, Emma Rainville breaks down Texas’s new SMS marketing regulations hitting on September 1st, and what they mean for founders, media buyers, and ops teams. From curfews to compliance filings, this is not a law to take lightly — especially in a state with serious enforcement teeth. You’ll learn exactly what you must do to avoid five-figure fines (and yes, it starts with a $10K bond).

Rainville outlines the new classification of SMS as telemarketing under Texas law (SB 140), the required Secretary of State registration, and strict curfew hours. If you're a direct response brand or own an e-commerce operation with Texas leads, this 4-minute update could save you a major compliance headache. Get ahead — not penalized.

We cover:

Why SMS is now considered telemarketing under Texas law
How to register with the Secretary of State (+ what it costs)
Required $10,000 surety bond breakdown
When you’re legally barred from texting Texas phones
What happens if you don’t comply — and why curfews matter
Where to grab a done-for-you SOP for full compliance

Timestamps

(0:00) The new Texas SMS law: Who it applies to
(0:45) Required registration + bond overview
(1:20) Legal SMS curfew hours explained
(2:05) Risks of noncompliance in Texas
(3:00) Where to get the free SOP inside the Visionary Vault
(4:15) Final warning: Texas isn’t messing around

⚠️ Don’t get caught unprepared. Get your free “Texas SMS Compliance SOP” in the Visionary Vault to follow every step. Stay legal. Stay scalable.

Explore Free Resources inside the Visionary Vault:

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

DraftKings Promo Lands $3M Fine (Could Yours Be Next?) Aug 15, 2025

What if your next big promo landed you in court?

This week, Emma Rainville and compliance attorney Ryan Poteet break down DraftKings’ $3 million marketing settlement—and the deceptive bonus offer that triggered it. From “risk-free bets” to 30-day guarantees, we unpack how one headline promo became a regulatory minefield and what marketers must do to avoid similar fallout.

Whether you’re running affiliate banners, SaaS free trials, or limited-time bonuses, this episode is your tactical guide to staying compliant without killing conversions. We cover legal definitions of deception, why “clear and conspicuous” means more than fine print, and how affiliate behavior could make you liable—even if you didn’t approve the ad.

We cover:

The DraftKings settlement: deceptive by omission vs outright lie
Why “free” and “risk-free” are legal red flags (even with fine print)
FTC rules on disclaimer proximity (and why footers won’t cut it)
State AGs, class actions, and affiliate banners under scrutiny
A tactical checklist for legally bulletproof bonus offers

Timestamps:

(0:00) DraftKings: what happened and why $3M was paid
(1:27) “Risk-free” ≠ risk-free: why terms must match the claim
(3:12) What counts as “clear and conspicuous” in ad copy
(5:06) Affiliate networks, UI banners, and who’s responsible
(7:14) Class actions vs AG enforcement: the bigger threat
(9:29) Tactical checklist: fix your offer stack, disclaimers, and funnels
(12:05) Final verdict: one promo, skipped truths, $3M gone

Download the playbook:

Get our Bonus Marketing Compliance Template—tested language, visual placement cues, and funnel audit steps—in the Visionary Vault at www.specialopspodcast.com.

Explore Free Resources at the Visionary Vault:

Get in Touch with Ryan Poteet:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-poteet-43098ba

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

ChatGPT 5 Is Here! Here’s How I Trained It to Run My Business… and my Life! Aug 12, 2025

“I trained ChatGPT 5 to think like me—and run my business.”

In this episode of Special Ops, Emma Rainville pulls back the curtain on her real-life workflow with “Lester,” her custom-trained ChatGPT 5 assistant. From late-night discovery of the new release to hands-on testing of its upgraded features, Emma shows exactly how she’s using thinking mode, agent mode, and memory control to get faster, sharper, and more personalized results.

You’ll hear the real differences between ChatGPT 4 and 5, how to decide when to turn memory on or off, and the tactical ways Emma uses projects vs custom GPTs to keep her business operations running without chaos. Plus, she reveals how she automates full email sequences, uses trigger words to “switch hats,” and even compares Grok AI and Gemini for different use cases. If you’re an entrepreneur looking to turn AI into your most efficient team member, this is your blueprint.

We cover:

ChatGPT 5 features vs ChatGPT 4 (thinking mode, multimodal input)
When to use memory on vs memory off
Projects vs custom GPTs: which to use when
Setting up prompts and trigger words for fast context switching
Using agent mode to automate full workflows
Comparing ChatGPT, Grok AI, and Gemini for entrepreneurs

Timestamps:

(0:00) Intro and why ChatGPT 5 had Emma up all night

(1:32) Key differences between ChatGPT 5 and ChatGPT 4

(3:08) Thinking mode vs non-thinking mode

(4:42) Projects vs custom GPTs

(6:10) Memory feature: on, off, and tactical use

(8:03) Trigger words and role-switching with AI

(9:55) Building a multi-role AI assistant

(12:10) Automating 21-day email sequences with agent mode

(14:05) Grok AI, Gemini AI, and where they fit

(16:20) Final thoughts and Visionary Vault invite

Access the free Visionary Vault to grab your AI Workflow Playbook, including prompt templates, automation tips, and a ChatGPT setup checklist → www.specialopspodcast.com

Explore Free Resources inside the Visionary Vault:

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

Your AI Ads Might Be Illegal (Here's What You Need to Know) Aug 08, 2025

Before you hit “publish” on that AI-generated ad, the FTC and state regulators may already be looking for you.

Hosts Emma Rainville and FTC compliance attorney Ryan Poteet strip the shine off AI hype and reveal the legal risks marketers are hitting every day. From AI-generated testimonials to synthetic brand ambassadors in lab coats, what feels like a shortcut can become a subpoena if you ignore disclosure rules.

We break down where the FTC, state attorneys general, and even California’s privacy regulators are focusing their fire — and how you can scale with AI without stepping into a legal minefield. This isn’t about fearing technology. It’s about building campaigns that are bulletproof under the harshest regulatory spotlight.

We cover:

- FTC’s stance on AI-generated content in ads

- Disclosure requirements for synthetic faces and voices

- How state AGs are outpacing federal regulators

- When using AI crosses into unlicensed legal or professional advice

- Legal do’s and don’ts for AI testimonials and avatars

- California rules that set the national compliance bar

Timestamps:

(0:00) The biggest AI-driven threat to marketers’ livelihoods

(3:42) AI copywriting vs. FTC truth-in-advertising rules

(8:15) Synthetic media and disclosure obligations

(13:09) The NASM “AI coach” scenario — where you cross the line

(17:54) AI testimonials: ethical vs. deceptive transformations

(21:46) Why California compliance may be your safest bet

(24:58) How to monitor fast-changing AI marketing laws

Protect your campaigns before the regulators come knocking. Download the free AI Compliance Kit inside the Visionary Vault at specialopspodcast.com and get the checklists, disclosure templates, and workflows to scale safely.

Explore Free Resources at the Visionary Vault:

https://specialopspodcast.com/visionary-vault

Get in Touch with Ryan Poteet:

Website: https://www.grsm.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-poteet-43098ba

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

Website: https://specialopspodcast.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

Are Non-Compete Clauses Dead? Here's How You Can Protect Your Business Aug 05, 2025

If you're relying on a non-compete to protect your business, you're already behind.

In this episode, Emma Rainveille and Ryan Poteet expose the non-compete myth that many entrepreneurs still cling to—and why most of these clauses are now legally worthless. With the FTC’s proposed ban thrown into legal chaos and state-by-state rules changing fast, the truth is clear: non-competes aren't your safety net anymore.

This episode covers what is enforceable, how to legally protect your agency or team, and what employers still get wrong about trade secrets, non-solicits, and exits. Whether you're scaling, exiting, or just hiring your first key player, this is essential listening.

We cover:

Why your non-compete clause probably won’t hold up (and what to use instead)
When non-solicits are enforceable—and when they’re disguised non-competes
The FTC’s April 2024 ban and August reversal: what’s actually enforceable now
Legal ways to protect your agency, offer, IP, and team without “shackling” people
The only time a non-compete has real teeth: post-exit restrictions for founders
How to build contracts that protect your data, clients, and code legally

Timestamps:

(0:00) You had them sign a non-compete... but it probably won't protect you
(1:42) The FTC ban on non-competes: what happened in April and August 2024
(3:21) Why state law still governs enforceability—and where the patchwork stands
(5:00) Confidentiality, trade secrets, and what actually protects your IP
(7:08) Non-solicitation clauses and client protections in 2025
(9:04) What still works in court vs what will get tossed
(11:12) Post-exit restrictions that hold more weight
(12:58) Final thoughts and what to do next

Download the legal playbook that goes with this episode in the Visionary Vault — visit www.specialopspodcast.com to access our full archive of free frameworks, templates, and legal resources.

Explore Free Resources at the Visionary Vault:

Get in Touch with Ryan Poteet:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-poteet-43098ba

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

How to Protect Your Brand Legally Before Someone Steals It Aug 01, 2025

Most online business owners believe that buying a domain or designing a logo means their brand is protected. But in the eyes of the law, you don’t own your brand unless your IP is registered—and you’re actively policing it. In this episode of Marketing on Trial, Emma Rainville and FTC attorney Ryan Poteet break down how your most valuable business asset—your brand—is vulnerable to infringement if you skip key legal steps.

From domain myths to copyright blind spots to cease-and-desist strategies, this episode is a tactical walk-through of what really counts as brand protection in 2025. If you're building with exit in mind—or want to prevent expensive brand theft—start here.

We cover:

Why domain ownership ≠ trademark protection
The one legal move that makes or breaks an IP case
What “policing your IP” actually means
When to register: timing your trademarks and copyrights
Common myths that leave founders exposed

Timestamps:

(0:00) Why your brand might not be legally yours

(0:40) What qualifies as intellectual property

(1:25) The truth about domains and trademarks

(2:10) Registering trademarks and copyrights the right way

(3:00) What “policing your IP” actually involves

(4:10) The importance of timing in IP protection

(5:15) How to work with IP attorneys

(6:30) Cease and desist, Schedule A cases, and brand enforcement tools

(7:40) Recap: Own your identity before someone else does

Get the free IP Protection Manual now inside the Visionary Vault: www.specialopspodcast.com

Own your identity. Guard your assets. Scale with confidence.

Explore Free Resources at the Visionary Vault:

Get in Touch with Ryan Poteet:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-poteet-43098ba

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

Click to Cancel is Here! The FTC’s New Rule That Could Make Your Subscription Illegal Jul 29, 2025

Your “cancel anytime” could get you canceled. The FTC’s new Click-to-Cancel rule changes everything for subscription marketers.

Emma Rainville and Ryan Poteet break down the FTC’s new Click-to-Cancel mandate and what it means for businesses running continuity, membership, or auto-ship models. This rule doesn’t just tweak existing guidance—it forces businesses to make cancellation as easy as sign-up. If your funnel isn’t compliant, you're opening yourself up to lawsuits, fines, and consumer backlash.

Whether you’re a DTC brand, SaaS company, or marketer running continuity offers—this is your compliance wake-up call.

Policy update (July 16): The DOJ moved the implementation date once again. Stick around until the very end to get updated and how to stay compliant.

We cover:

What the FTC now considers a deceptive cancellation process
Where and how your “Cancel Subscription” button needs to appear
The new standard for clear and conspicuous disclosure
How Apple and other brands are setting the compliance bar
Real examples of what not to do (like mail-in cancellation gimmicks)

Timestamps:

(00:52) Why Click-to-Cancel is a legal minefield
(03:28) What qualifies as “unavoidable” disclosure
(06:44) Where your cancel link must live on your site
(09:10) Why marketing “fairy dust” won’t save you from the FTC
(12:33) The end of shady cancellation gimmicks (like snail-mail guarantees)
(15:21) What your cancellation flow needs to look like now
(18:19) Real risks: class actions, fines, and lost trust

Sign up to our Visionary Vault and download our free Click-to-Cancel Compliance Checklist at specialopspodcast.com. Stay ready. Stay Compliant!

Explore Free Resources at the Visionary Vault:

Get in Touch with Ryan Poteet:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-poteet-43098ba

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

How to Respond to FTC Civil Investigative Demand (You Only Have 14 Days!) Jul 26, 2025

Receiving a Civil Investigative Demand from the FTC isn’t a lawsuit… but it might be worse if you don’t act fast.

In this episode of Marketing on Trial, Emma Rainville and compliance attorney Ryan Poteet break down the moment that sends shivers down any marketer’s spine: getting served a CID. From understanding what it actually means, to responding strategically within the tight 14-day timeline, this is a tactical walk-through of what happens, what not to do, and how to avoid turning an investigation into a full-blown lawsuit.

You’ll learn why panicking is the worst move, why legal hold procedures need to be immediate, and why old playbooks like “shut down the LLC” won’t save you anymore. Ryan also outlines the importance of meet-and-confer deadlines, rolling productions, and what the FTC is really looking for when they knock.

We cover:

What an FTC CID really is — and how it differs from a lawsuit
Why 14 days is your most critical countdown
What “legal hold” means operationally (Google Drive, Slack, deleted calls)
Why direct response playbooks won’t protect you anymore
The dangers of ignoring preservation duties — even for contractors
What it means if your CID moves into a full investigation
How to work with the FTC without escalating the issue

Timestamps:

(0:00) What is a Civil Investigative Demand?

(1:34) “Don’t panic” is legal advice

(3:10) Who gets a CID — targets vs third-party providers

(5:22) The 14-day clock and why you must respond with counsel

(8:04) Meet-and-confer and motion to quash tactics

(10:47) Legal hold: what to preserve and how

(14:20) Contractor drives, Slack messages, and customer service calls

(16:50) Confidentiality vs operational notification

(19:15) You can’t hide behind LLCs anymore

(22:00) What happens after you submit the documents

(25:03) CID vs litigation: which is the better outcome?

(27:11) Best case timeline: 2 years

(28:45) The real reason to take CIDs seriously

CTA:

Get our free CID Emergency Kit — designed with legal checklists and data preservation workflows to protect your business from day one. It’s in the Visionary Vault. Compliance isn’t optional, and silence isn’t a strategy.

Explore Free Resources at the Visionary Vault:

Get in Touch with Ryan Poteet:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-poteet-43098ba

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

Fake Stars, Real Lawsuits: How Review Hijacking Can Kill Your Brand Jul 18, 2025

In this episode of Marketing on Trial, Emma Rainville and Ryan Poteet of Gordon Reese break down a legal time bomb hiding on your product pages: fake reviews. Whether it’s gifted products, “helpful” testimonial swaps, or syndicating five-star feedback across SKUs, the FTC’s new rule under 16 CFR Part 465 draws a hard line. And enforcement is heating up.

We dissect the difference between a review and a testimonial, expose review hijacking tactics that are now legally risky, and give you a review sourcing process you can actually defend. If your product relies on stars to convert — don’t miss this.

We cover:

What counts as deceptive under the FTC’s new fake review rule
Why incentivized reviews = legal testimonials (and what that means)
The difference between curating vs. suppressing UGC (yes, it matters)
Disclosure placement: what “clear and conspicuous” really looks like
A 4-part compliant review sourcing framework you can implement today

Timestamps:

(0:00) Fake stars can earn you a real lawsuit
(2:20) Why incentivized = testimonial, not review
(5:45) What’s legal vs. illegal on Amazon, Shopify, and your own site
(10:10) How to safely disclose material connections (FTC-style)
(14:05) Review hijacking examples that will get you flagged
(20:00) Building a compliant review sourcing process
(25:45) How long do you need to keep review records?

Download the Get Compliant Review Guide free in the Visionary Vault — everything you need to audit your reviews and stay lawsuit-proof.

Explore Free Resources at the Visionary Vault:

Get in Touch with Ryan Poteet:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-poteet-43098ba

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

What’s keeping you from your 10-year vision? It might be your execution plan Jul 15, 2025

In this tactical episode, Emma Rainville breaks down the WAVE Framework, a four-part strategic system built to help visionary entrepreneurs realign their personal life goals with high-growth business objectives.

With the year’s halfway point in full view, this session delivers a no-fluff reset on how to plan intentionally, stay focused, uphold your values, and actually execute what you said you would.

Emma walks you through the real-world application of WAVE (Written Vision, Absolute Focus, Values-Driven Future, Execution Plan), offering examples from her companies like Shockwave, Aftershock, and Seismic Wave.

This isn’t just theory. It’s how her businesses run. Get inside her “breaker” methodology, learn why gratitude is a KPI, and why growth without a team development strategy is a recipe for burnout and regret.

We cover:

How to create a 10-year written vision you’ll actually commit to
What to check at the 6-month mark to stay operationally aligned
The difference between goals and commitments—and why that matters
Weekly team rituals that move the needle
How to develop your team without losing focus on execution

Timestamps:

(0:00) Why entrepreneurs build businesses that block personal goals

(2:15) The WAVE framework overview

(4:10) Written Vision: What does your life look like in 2035?

(9:30) One-year commitments vs annual goals

(12:05) Absolute Focus: Staying true to your 2025 strategy

(17:45) Values-Driven Future: Hiring for alignment, not duplication

(23:15) Execution: How to break commitments into quarterly and weekly goals

(30:20) What a “breaker” meeting looks like and why it matters

(36:55) Growing your team while growing your business

Sign up now for the Visionary Vault at specialopspodcast.com to grab your free WAVE playbook and unlock more frameworks used by 7-figure operators.

Explore Free Resources inside the Visionary Vault:

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

Marketing Mistakes That Trigger FTC Investigations (and How to Avoid Them) Jul 11, 2025

Discover why "everyone else is doing it" could cost you millions—and how to navigate the FTC’s aggressive stance on marketing compliance.

In this highlight episode, Emma Rainville and Ryan Poteet of Gordon Reese break down dangerous misconceptions about marketing regulations, influencer disclosures, and subscription billing practices, highlighting hidden risks that marketers frequently overlook.

Sign up to the Visionary Vault for every roadmap, tools, and resources that we drop in every episode. FOR FEE! https://specialopspodcast.com/visionary-vault

(07:20) Why common marketing practices might still land you in serious legal trouble.

(13:45) The critical elements of clear disclosures that protect against FTC enforcement.

(22:30) Real-world examples of compliant influencer promotions (and costly mistakes).

(29:55) Why truthful claims can still be considered deceptive.

(35:15) The "grandma test": a simple method to gauge your marketing’s legality.

Explore Free Resources at the Visionary Vault:

Get in Touch with Ryan Poteet:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-poteet-43098ba

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

Why People Buy: It’s Not Price, It’s Energy Jul 08, 2025

What is the real cost of indecision? This highlight episode breaks down risk, ops, and the rise of experiential buying.

In this Special Ops highlight drop, Emma pulls the sharpest insights from two elite operators: Perry Belcher and Jason Fladlien. Together they dissect the collapse of recorded information, rising decision fatigue, and how AI, trust, and fulfillment are reshaping the sales and ops playbook.

Buying a car can be tricky, from car care to car insurance, but it doesn't have to be. It's the same with business success, this is why we make these episode to pull the curtain on what it really takes to make a thriving business, whether it's care sales, concert tickets or digital products. You name it, and we unravel the game.

We everyone enjoyed these recent highlight episode installments.Watch out for new episodes coming soon!

As always, we invite you to sign up to our Visionary Vault—where you can download all the tools and books, and hacks that will help you scale your business. All for free! https://specialopspodcast.com/visiona...

We Cover:

(00:00) Why Recorded Info is Valueless — Perry opens by comparing recorded content to rotting bananas, explaining the experience premium.

(02:18) Decision Fatigue and Influencer Trust — How too many choices drive consumers to follow authoritative voices who simplify decisions.

(04:57) Concerts vs Digital Content — People pay $600 to watch a dot on a stadium stage and what that reveals about belonging and experience economics.

(08:03) Why Risk Reversal Must Include Energy — Perry details why most marketers over-index on money-back guarantees while ignoring energy risk.

(10:12) Conditional Coaching Offers — A breakdown of how layered unlocks protect margin while rewarding engaged customers.

(14:09) Fladlien on Fulfillment Risk — Jason emphasizes that risk reversal only works if operations can deliver the promise.

(16:45) The Marketing-Ops Handoff — When ops fails to support the pitch, the whole funnel crumbles, here’s how to prevent it.

(19:00) Future-Proof Offers in the AI Age — What Belcher and Fladlien are investing in now to hedge against commoditized info products.

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

Why Money Is Like Oxygen And You Never Noticed! Jul 01, 2025

You can have the perfect strategy, but if you screw up the timing, or your ego gets in the way, you’ll blow the entire thing!

In this highlights episode of Special Ops, Emma brings together some of the sharpest founder insights on liquidity, decision-making, and the dangerous mindset shifts that sabotage scale. From chasing an inflated valuation to deploying cash too early, this conversation unpacks what happens after the exit or when you miss the window entirely.

You’ll hear real talk on M&A strategy, wealth psychology, and why $3–5M is the only money you really need. Plus, the behavioral patterns that creep in once you feel unstoppable and how to avoid becoming your own liability.

Remember to go sign up to our Visionary Vault—where you can download all the tools and books, and hacks that will help you scale your business. All for free! https://specialopspodcast.com/visionary-vault

(0:00) The $65M temptation vs. cashing out too late

(1:48) “Forever money”: how $3–5M can buy peace, not jets

(3:22) Why fearlessness after exit makes you sharper—but also dangerous

(5:09) The biggest mistake: deploying capital before you’re ready

(6:44) Non-renewable money vs. renewable wealth: the latte test

(8:15) Liquidity as leverage: the day a $10M opportunity needed $1M—fast

(9:58) Founder ego, overconfidence, and the psychological blind spot

(11:30) Functional chaos: the wealthy founder with a broken internal world

(13:00) Market research through empathy: Nick’s method acting approach

(14:45) Messaging transformation: how inside-out clarity drove real scale

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

Can You Say That in an Ad? Limited-Time Lies, Testimonial Traps, and the Real FTC Rules | Marketing on Trial Jun 27, 2025

Limited-time offers. Income claims. Celebrity testimonials. What if everything your funnel is built on is legally shaky—and you don’t even know it?

In this special highlights edition of Marketing on Trial, hosts Emma Rainville and Ryan Poteet compile the most impactful moments from recent episodes—bringing together the sharpest insights on deceptive marketing practices, legal blind spots, and the FTC's evolving standards for 2025.

Whether it’s the real meaning behind “limited-time only,” what makes a testimonial compliant, or how AI and automation are changing enforcement, this episode distills the no-BS legal strategies every marketer should know. It’s fast-paced, tactical, and packed with the kind of clarity that keeps your business safe as you scale.

Sign up to the Visionary Vault for every roadmap, tools, and resources that we drop in every episode. FOR FEE! https://specialopspodcast.com/visionary-vault

(0:00) Can something literally true still be deceptive?

(1:32) What the FTC considers “reasonable consumer understanding”

(3:18) Why “limited-time only” offers might land you in legal trouble

(5:40) Creative bonuses, rotating product designs, and compliant urgency

(7:05) MyPillow, repeat sales, and the problem with false discounts

(8:30) How FTC regulation and enforcement has evolved over the last decade

(10:01) Income, health, and testimonial claims: what the FTC wants in 2025

(12:14) What “typical results” really means and how to prove it

(14:10) Deregulation myths, RFK hype, and why compliance still matters

(15:30) How AI is reshaping enforcement and why no funnel is invisible

Explore Free Resources at the Visionary Vault:

Get in Touch with Ryan Poteet:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-poteet-43098ba

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

What Losing $5M to a Comma Taught Me About Contracts, Liquidity, and Copy That Converts Jun 24, 2025

What happens when hard-won marketing wisdom meets the cold realities of legal fine print? These next few weeks were bringing you highlights from the best episodes of Special Ops. Today, Emma brings together two of her favorite minds—Kasim Aslam and Nick Verge—for a rapid-fire download of strategy, survival, and straight-up founder honesty.

From Kasim’s battle-tested M&A experience (and how a single comma almost cost someone $5 million), to Nick’s take on micro-commitments, psychology-driven copy, and preparing your audience before the pitch, this episode is a masterclass in what really matters when you're building something worth buying—or protecting.

You’ll hear how liquidity creates leverage, why “Forrest Gump-ing” through legal negotiations can be your best move, and what entrepreneurs get wrong about both their exit and their ads. No fluff, no ego—just tactical insight from leaders who’ve been in the arena.

(0:00) The $5M comma: how contracts and semantics can make or break your deal

(1:43) Why most M&A attorneys aren’t qualified—and what to ask before you hire one

(3:15) The “Forrest Gump” strategy for negotiating with legal and private equity teams

(4:56) Liquidity as leverage: why cash on hand beats assets after an exit

(6:28) How to protect yourself post-exit from opportunists and bad investments

(7:49) Renewable vs. non-renewable money—and how to never spend your principal

(9:15) Buying a $10M business for $1M: the power of being ready

(10:40) Copywriting strategy: the “Want ___?” formula and emotion-based hooks

(12:05) Using data and customer research to write high-converting VSLs

(13:28) Micro-commitments and building momentum in your sales messaging

(14:42) Identity framing, open loops, and writing with psychological clarity

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

Special Ops Spinoff! Marketing on Trial – Season Teaser Jun 20, 2025

From the creators of the Special Ops Podcast comes a brand-new spinoff series that marketers can’t afford to ignore.

Marketing on Trial is where hard-hitting marketing strategies meet real legal accountability. Co-hosted by the wizard of ops herself, Emma Rainville and Ryan Poteet of Gordon Reese, this show pulls back the curtain on the marketing tactics that could get you sued—and how to fix them before they do.

Watch the previous episodes and find out why they're making this a regular show, who it's for, and what’s at stake if you ignore the fine print.

Because marketing isn't just creative... it’s regulated.

🔍 Episodes drop weekly. Subscribe and tap the bell so you don’t miss what could save your brand.

🔗 Sign up and explore Free Resources at the Visionary Vault:

https://specialopspodcast.com/visionary-vault

Get in Touch with Ryan Poteet:

Website: https://www.grsm.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-poteet-43098ba

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

Website: https://specialopspodcast.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

The Psychology Behind Pricing and Value Stack to Maximize Your Sales Jun 17, 2025

You’re probably leaving money on the table because of your pricing and you don’t even know it.

There are significant psychological and strategic principles behind effective pricing and value stacking. In today’s episode of Special Ops, host Emma Rainville teams up with Richard and Saka to break down how setting the right price point and building compelling value stacks can transform your product, your sales, and ultimately your revenue.

From the importance of understanding customer lifetime value to the nuances of psychological pricing, they cover it all with practical examples and actionable insights. This episode is your ultimate guide to mastering pricing strategies because it’s not enough to know your numbers, it’s how you understand those numbers, and today you’ll hear it straight from the team who’s seen it all, and done it all.

As always, stick around until the end where we drop a free tool inside the Visionary Vault so you implement these game-changing tactics today. https://specialopspodcast.com/visionary-vault

(00:13) Diving into Pricing Strategies

(01:20) Understanding Customer Acquisition Costs

(03:15) The Importance of Value Stacking

(07:46) Psychology of Pricing

(10:54) Global Perspectives on Pricing

(12:30) Understanding Customer Lifetime Value (CLTV)

(13:14) The Importance of Tracking Affiliate Sales

(14:11) Analyzing Traffic Sources and Their Impact

(15:32) Value Stacks: Maximizing Perceived Value

(17:00) Challenges and Value Stacks: A Deeper Dive

(19:41) Creating Effective Bonuses

(25:13) Final Thoughts and Resources

Explore Free Resources inside the Visionary Vault:

Get in Touch with the Shockwave team:

Richard: richard@shockwavesolutionsllc.com

Saka: saka@shockwavesolutionsllc.com

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

How the FTC is Using AI To Target Marketers Faster Than Ever | Marketing on Trial Jun 13, 2025

Can AI reshape regulatory enforcement in the supplement industry? Emma Rainville and Ryan Poteet of Gordon Reese dive deep into how automation tools may revolutionize how the FTC and FDA monitor marketing claims, labeling, and deceptive advertising.

They tackle the misconception that the current administration's stance will lead to deregulation, warning that every action today may have future consequences as AI tools streamline regulatory oversight. A quick must-listen for founders and marketers, not just in the supplement space, but for every marketer who wants to stay compliant.

This episode is packed with strategic insights to future-proof your compliance strategy in the age of faster, easier AI crackdown. Download the featured playbook inside the Visionary Vault for a roadmap to staying compliant in 2025 and beyond. https://specialopspodcast.com/visionary-vault

(00:00) Introduction to AI in Marketing

(00:46) CNN Health and Supplement Regulations

(01:48) Breaking Down RFK's Policy Shift

(02:04) Impact on FDA Enforcement

(02:07) Future Proofing Your Compliance Strategy

(03:10) Discussion on Regulatory Changes

(06:26) The Role of AI in Enforcement

(09:34) Final Thoughts and Compliance Guide

Explore Free Resources at the Visionary Vault:

Get in Touch with Ryan Poteet:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-poteet-43098ba

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

How to Build Bulletproof Marketing Ops with Saka Jun 10, 2025

Is your marketing execution as strong as your strategy?

In this episode of the Special Ops podcast, Emma Rainville pulls back the curtain on the unsung hero of her company's success—Saka, the Director of Marketing Operations. Broadcasting from a studio in London with her team, Emma delves into how marketing operations are the backbone of effective execution.

Saka, hailing from Mauritius, shares his experience-driven insights on turning vision into action through strategic project management. Learn the critical steps to avoid dropping the balls on your operations, how to manage cross-functional teams, and maintain high efficiency with tools like ClickUp and Slack.

Emma and Saka also discuss the importance of understanding the technical language of various team members to seamlessly orchestrate complex projects. Download the featured playbook inside the Visionary Vault to find your own 'Saka' and transform your marketing operations. https://specialopspodcast.com/visionary-vault

(00:00) Introduction and Special Guest Announcement

(00:28) Meet Saka: The Marketing Operations Maestro

(00:50) The Secret Behind Seamless Marketing Execution

(04:00) Saka's Journey and Expertise

(09:29) Project Management and Team Coordination

(16:45) Automation and Systematization

(24:55) Conclusion and Free Resource Announcement

Explore Free Resources at the Visionary Vault:

Get in Touch with the Shockwave team:

Website: https://www.shockwavesolutionsllc.com/

Saka: saka@shockwavesolutionsllc.com

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

The FTC’s Next Target: Are Direct Response Advertisers About to Get Wrecked? | Marketing on Trial Jun 06, 2025

Are your direct response marketing tactics compliant with the FTC's latest standards? As the Federal Trade Commission tightens its grip on mainstream performance marketers, many strategies that have scaled brands to millions could soon be ruled as deceptive.

In this hard-hitting episode of Marketing on Trial, Ryan Poteet of Gordon Reese and Emma dissect these changes, offering a no-holds-barred look at what's about to change in 2025. Learn how to navigate new regulations on income, health claims, and testimonials, and discover actionable steps to keep your marketing both effective and lawful.

This one is a must watch if you are in the direct response marketing space. Feeling unsure? Make sure to stick around until the end and download the direct response AD Compliance guide inside the Visionary Vault. Stay ahead or risk getting wrecked!

(00:00) Introduction to FTC's Evolution

(00:45) Welcome to Marketing on Trial

(01:04) FTC's Focus on Mainstream Marketers

(01:57) Understanding FTC Regulations Over the Years

(05:18) Income, Health, and Testimonial Claims

(09:45) The Importance of Evidence and Surveys

(14:40) Urgency, Scarcity, and Compliance

(16:13) Managing Influencers and Affiliates

(23:17) Operational Parameters for Compliance

(30:07) Closing Remarks and Resources

Explore Free Resources at the Visionary Vault:

Get in Touch with Ryan Poteet:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-poteet-43098ba

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

The Decision Room: Mastering High-Stake Choices for Operations Excellence Jun 03, 2025

How do high-level business operations make critical decisions quickly and effectively?

This week on the Special Ops podcast, Emma is joined by her ever-reliable Operations duo, Richard and Saka. They’ve gathered together in London for an in-depth discussion about decision-making in high-pressure scenarios.

They share their personal processes for rapidly evaluating choices, weighing outcomes, and leveraging team expertise. From marketing dilemmas to operational crises, they delve into the importance of practice, tangible planning, and using downtime to prepare for future challenges.

If you want tactical insights on empowering your team to make great decisions and avoiding costly mistakes, don't miss this episode. Download the featured playbook inside the Visionary Vault to start implementing these strategies today.

(00:00) Introduction and Welcome

(00:09) Team Building in London

(00:24) The Decision Room: An Overview

(00:44) Importance of Quick Decision Making

(01:23) Decision Making Process Explained

(01:35) Real-Life Decision Making Examples

(02:22) Individual Decision Making Approaches

(07:31) Leveraging Experience and Testing

(09:55) The Value of Networking and Masterminds

(13:10) Parameters for Decision Making

(18:53) Encouraging Decision Making in Teams

(20:45) Conclusion and Call to Action

Explore Free Resources at the Visionary Vault:

Get in Touch with the Shockwave team:

Richard: richard@shockwavesolutionsllc.com

Saka: saka@shockwavesolutionsllc.com

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

Deceptive Marketing or Smart Advertising? Where the Law Draws the Line | Marketing on Trial May 30, 2025

Can your clever marketing copy land you in legal trouble? In today's episode, Emma Rainville and FTC compliance attorney Ryan Poteet explore the fine line between persuasive advertising and deceptive marketing.

Learn how one sentence in your copy could be the difference between scaling to seven figures and facing a multi million-dollar fine.

The discussion covers the FTC's definition of deceptive advertising, examples of risky marketing tactics, and how to craft compliant but compelling copy.

Don't miss their free Smart Ad Compliance Checklist - download it from the Visionary Vault to ensure your marketing stays effective and legal. Tune in for no-BS insights on staying compliant while scaling your business.

(00:00) Introduction to Deceptive Marketing

(00:40) Understanding FTC Compliance

(01:02) Meet the Hosts

(02:13) Defining Deceptive Advertising

(04:07) Examples of Risky Marketing Tactics

(05:40) Creating Scarcity and Urgency

(08:20) The Power of Guarantees

(09:25) Handling Testimonials and Reviews

(21:51) Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up

Explore Free Resources at the Visionary Vault:

Get in Touch with Ryan Poteet:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-poteet-43098ba

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

Funnel Quality Checks You Should Do Before AND After Launching May 27, 2025

When launching funnels, we tend to obsess over what the customer sees. But what they don’t see is the background, where things break, lawsuits start, or revenue quietly disappears. In this episode, I’m sitting down with Richard, Shockwave’s Chief Marketing Officer and the guy who double-checks every switch behind every campaign before it goes live. We’ll unpack the overlooked world of funnel infrastructure: policies, payment flows, affiliate setups, legal compliance, and QA protocols that most marketers ignore—until it’s too late. We aren’t talking about just fixing problems. It’s about designing launches to work under pressure. If you’re scaling a funnel and you’re not thinking like an operator, this conversation will change how you build from here on out.

If you haven’t already, sign up for the Visionary Vault! So you can download dozens of free tools and the featured QA checklist and transform how you build your funnels from! https://specialopspodcast.com/visionary-vault

(00:00) Intro and Team Building in London

(00:54) The Importance of Funnel Infrastructure

(02:26) Common Funnel Mistakes

(03:42) QA Best Practices

(06:42) Testing Across Devices and Browsers

(08:22) Legal Compliance and Policies

(13:13) Post-Checkout Processes

(19:11) The Role of Customer Service in QA

(20:39) Conclusion and Call to Action

Explore Free Resources at the Visionary Vault:

Get in Touch with the Shockwave team:

Richard: richard@shockwavesolutionsllc.com

Saka: saka@shockwavesolutionsllc.com

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

Most Influencer Marketing Is Breaking the Law (Here’s Why) | Marketing on Trial May 23, 2025

Is your influencer marketing compliant with FTC regulations? In this tactical episode, Emma Rainville and Ryan Poteet of Gordon Reese dissect the critical compliance missteps that could be putting your brand at risk. Discover how to navigate the FTC's Trade Regulation Rule on consumer reviews, endorsements, and testimonials, while integrating effective strategies to ensure your influencer partnerships are transparent and legally sound. With real-world examples and actionable steps, they unveil a straightforward path to aligning your influencer marketing with legal standards. Don’t miss out on the Influencer Compliance Checklist, available in the Visionary Vault—your definitive guide to flawless compliance.

Download the featured playbook inside the Visionary Vault to level up your influencer marketing game. https://specialopspodcast.com/visionary-vault

(00:00) Introduction to Influencer Marketing Compliance

(00:36) Understanding FTC Regulations

(01:59) Examples of Influencer Marketing Scenarios

(03:10) Best Practices for Influencer Partnerships

(04:47) Ensuring Proper Disclosures

(11:04) Final Thoughts and Conclusion

Explore Free Resources at the Visionary Vault:

Get in Touch with Ryan Poteet:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-poteet-43098ba

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

Special London Episode! Shockwave’s Secret to Ops Excellence with Global Teams May 20, 2025

In this special episode of Special Ops, Emma sits down with Richard and Saka in London to discuss the operational strategies that have propelled Shockwave's international success. They delve into the intricacies of team building, communication, and the importance of purposely slowing down to speed up and avoid costly mistakes. How deliberate can operational planning be, coupled with understanding individual team dynamics, and how can it all lead to seamless collaboration and higher productivity. Check out actionable insights and strategies to help you manage your own global teams more effectively.

The team reveals how proactive communication and an innovative meeting structure allow Shockwave to operate smoothly across the pond and oceans!

Be sure to stick around at the end to catch the featured playbook inside the Visionary Vault now to elevate your team operations. https://specialopspodcast.com/visionary-vault

(00:00) Meet the Team: Richard and Saka

(00:50) Building International Teams

(03:37) Daily Operations and Communication

(07:11) Personal Connections and Team Bonding

(09:25) Saka's Role and Contributions

(12:10) Effective Communication in Teams

(13:00) Managing Workload and Stress

(14:37) Adapting Communication Styles

(17:35) Challenges with International Teams

(18:22) Avoiding Micromanagement

(26:10) Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans

Explore Free Resources at the Visionary Vault:

Get in Touch with the Shockwave team:

Richard: richard@shockwavesolutionsllc.com

Saka: saka@shockwavesolutionsllc.com

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

Your Marketing Might Be ILLEGAL and Here’s What the FTC Won’t Tell You | Marketing on Trial May 16, 2025

The Special Ops Podcast is launching a new spinoff show! Join host Emma Rainville opposite Ryan Poteet from Gordon Reese as they delve into FTC compliance for direct response marketers, online sellers, and e-commerce brands.

Deceptive advertising has cost businesses over $5 billion in recent years, and many marketers don't even know they're at risk. In this debut episode of 'Marketing On Trial,' they discuss common misconceptions about compliance, the magnitude of FTC fines for deceptive advertising, and how to avoid being the next target.

Discover the most common misconceptions around FTC regulations, actionable insights on avoiding fines, and strategic steps to audit your marketing for legal risks. From misleading claims to false urgency tactics, we break down what you need to know to keep your business safe.

Be sure to grab yourself a copy of the free FTC Compliance Checklist available at the Special Ops Podcast website and subscribe for more expert insights to protect and scale your business. https://specialopspodcast.com/visionary-vault

(00:00) Introduction to FTC Fines and Compliance

(00:10) Common Misconceptions in Marketing Compliance

(00:44) Welcome to Marketing On Trial

(01:22) Understanding FTC Consumer Protection Laws

(04:28) Subscription Billing Compliance

(06:55) Deceptive Advertising and Misleading Claims

(08:16) Proving Claims with Evidence

(13:11) Risk Tolerance in Marketing

(16:09) Leveraging Survey Data for Marketing Claims

(16:42) Legal Considerations for Health Products

(17:45) Weight Loss Supplements and GLP-1 Activators

(18:37) False Urgency in Marketing

(21:13) Effective and Legal Urgency Tactics

(24:53) Pricing Strategies and Legal Pitfalls

(32:13) Conclusion and Action Steps

Get in Touch with Ryan Poteet:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-poteet-43098ba

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

The Final Showdown: Marketing vs Ops, Who is REALLY Slowing You Down? May 13, 2025

If you’ve been following this 3-part arc with Yara, you know we’ve been hammering home the same critical idea from every angle: Ops and Marketing must align, or you bleed money.

In today’s final conversation, we dive into the cultural and leadership side of the problem— including some painful lessons around toxic teams and the communication breakdowns that plague scaling businesses.

This is the final episode in our deep dive with Yara Golden on the great divide between Marketing and Ops. You’ve heard the strategy. You’ve heard the process. Today, we tackle the cultural minefields, personality clashes, and the one hire Emma regrets the most. If you’ve ever kept someone too long or felt your team was more of a sorority house than a business, this is the episode for you.

Plus, if you missed the last two episodes with Yara, then this third episode of the three-part series is the perfect catch-up. If you’d love to have her back in future episodes, let us know in the comments below!

Finally, remember to stick around at the very end so you can download the featured Marketing and Ops alignment Blueprint inside the Visionary Vault.

(00:00) Introduction

(00:13) The Marketing vs. Operations Dilemma

(00:46) Guest Introduction: Yara Golden

(01:44) The Hidden Costs of Misalignment

(03:56) The Importance of Process and Strategy

(05:25) Building Team Trust and Communication

(07:20) Personality Types and Team Dynamics

(14:45) Vulnerability and Commitment in Teams

(17:43) Podcast Performance Concerns

(18:10) Building a Team of Leaders

(19:47) Firing and Letting Go

(23:51) Positive Departures and Growth

(26:02) Aligning Marketing and Operations

(27:51) Creative Meetings and Notes

(32:29) Conclusion and Resources

Explore Free Resources at the Visionary Vault:

Get in Touch with Yara Golden:

Website: https://yaragolden.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yaragolden

Instagram: https://instagram.com/yara.golden

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

Why People Say NO (And How to Flip That Into a YES Instantly) May 06, 2025

What if the real reason people say “no” to your offer has nothing to do with your product, but how you're presenting it? Nick Verge, copywriting and marketing psychology expert, is back, and today we’re unpacking why customers hesitate even when they need what you’re selling.

Nick walks us through the psychology of objections, showing how a “no” is often just a disguised “not yet.” We dive into how to disarm resistance using copy that speaks directly to your customer’s fears, identity, and future vision. From micro commitments and open loops to empathy-driven persuasion and smart future pacing, you’ll learn how to flip doubt into decisive action—without being pushy or manipulative.

If you’re tired of guesswork and want to finally understand what drives buying behavior, this one is for you. Tune in to learn how to rewrite your copy, retarget smarter, and make your offer resonate like never before. And don’t forget to grab our free Psychological Sales Trigger Cheat Sheet from our Visionary Vault.

In This Episode:

-Meet copywriting expert Nick Verge

-How to flip a “no” into a “yes”

-Why using user-generated content alone kills credibility

-Copywriting persuasion tricks that convert

-The “want” formula for ads to hook emotions fast

-The power of micro commitments and how to set them up

-Pain sandwich: Ron Lynch’s technique

-How to implement identity-based selling

-5 steps to overcoming buyer resistance

-Creating testimonials and urgency with real scarcity

-How to use future pacing to lock in sales

-The importance of testing your sales funnel

-Why extensive research is critical

-How to contact Nick and access his copywriting guide

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

Download Nick Verge’s Copywriting Guide: https://www.nickverge.com/gigadoc

Listen to the Previous Episode with Nick: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ppDQPtVAPx0

Explore Free Resources at the Visionary Vault:

Get in Touch with Nick Verge:

Website: https://www.nickverge.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-verge-196731150/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicholasverge/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNVD21

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast?sub_confirmation=1

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

The podcast was produced by Top 10 Podcasts https://top10podcasts.com/start

The Slow Quiet Bleed Killing Your Business: How to Fix It Fast | Yara Golden Apr 29, 2025

Are your marketing and operations teams speaking different languages? If your marketing team is constantly over-promising while your operations team struggles to deliver, you may be facing a hidden problem that could cost your business big. The disconnect between these two departments creates inefficiency and quietly undermines your efforts to scale your business.

In this episode, Yara Golden returns to discuss how marketing and operations can align to drive business success. We examine how marketing tends to operate in a creative, idea-driven environment, while the operations team excels in execution and tangible results. Understanding this difference is key to bridging the gap and ensuring that both teams are working toward the same goals.

If you’re ready to align your teams and start scaling without chaos, make sure to grab our free Marketing and Ops Alignment playbook in the Visionary Vault. Don’t let disjointed teams hold you back—take action now!

In This Episode:

-Introduction to the marketing vs operations conflict

-Why marketing and operations seem to speak different languages

-Bridging the gap between brainstorming and execution

-The WAVE system: commitments vs. goals

-The importance of transparency and cadence

-The role of masterminds and continuous learning for growth

-Why adopting a growth mindset is crucial for marketers

-How to handle conflicts between ops and marketers

-Effective leadership strategies for conflict resolution

-The role of company culture in fostering team alignment

-The importance of clear communication and constructive feedback

-Key takeaways and how to connect with Yara Golden

Explore Free Resources at the Visionary Vault:

Get in Touch with Yara Golden:

Website: https://yaragolden.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yaragolden

Instagram: https://instagram.com/yara.golden

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast?sub_confirmation=1

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

The podcast was produced by Top 10 Podcasts https://top10podcasts.com/start

Stop Undervaluing Your Business: Smart Pricing Strategies with Robin Waite Apr 22, 2025

Are you charging less than you’re worth? In today’s episode, I’m hosting Robin Waite, an author, business coach, and the founder of Fearless Business, to discuss the importance of pricing for your business success. Robin breaks down the mistakes most entrepreneurs make when setting prices and how those errors can significantly hurt their profitability.

You’ll learn how to avoid underpricing your services and why understanding your business’s financials is key to building a sustainable and profitable business. Robin also highlights why customer retention is just as important as acquisition when it comes to boosting your bottom line.

If you’re still on the fence about raising your prices, Robin’s expert advice will give you the confidence to take action today. Don’t forget to grab a signed copy of his book, Take Your Shot (https://www.fearless.biz/), for more practical business strategies that will transform the way you think about product pricing and profitability.

In This Episode:

- Common pricing mistakes that businesses make

- Customer retention strategies for better profit margins

- How to overcome the impostor syndrome and increase prices

- Pricing strategies for services versus products

- Actionable steps to boost profitability and growth

- Using incremental price increases for business growth

Apply for a Signed Copy of Robin’s book, Take Your Shot - How to Grow Your Business, Attract More Clients and Make More Money: https://www.fearless.biz/

Explore Free Resources at the Visionary Vault:

Get in Touch with Robin Waite:

Website: https://www.fearless.biz/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robinmwaite/

LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/robinmwaite

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

https://top10podcasts.com/start

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast?sub_confirmation=1

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

The podcast was produced by Top 10 Podcasts

How Direct Response Marketers Can Launch Challenges to Increase Profits and Reduce Chaos Apr 15, 2025

Are you pouring money and effort into marketing challenges that just aren't converting? Your challenge structure could be the real problem. I’m joined by Mikhail Kuznetsov, an expert in high-ticket offers and challenge marketing. He reveals the hidden operational mistakes that may be quietly sabotaging your sales.

Mikhail explains how to use strategic pre-challenge tactics and precise communication systems to drive massive conversion rates. He shares the exact cadence formula for successful challenges and demonstrates how orchestrating perfect harmony between marketing, ops, and customer support creates a winning pitch.

Want to double your high-ticket offer conversions and maximize your profits? Tune in now and grab our free Seven-Figure Challenge Blueprint (https://specialopspodcast.com/visionary-vault) to start creating high-converting challenges for your business.

In This Episode:

-What makes a successful high-ticket challenge?

-Why collaboration and communication across teams are critical

-The importance of analyzing metrics and feedback

-How to plan for conversions and ROI

-The operational cadence of a successful challenge

-Pricing strategy for challenges

-Structuring upsells and VIP offers

-Creating a winning pitch

-Positioning and presenting an offer effectively

-How to use bonuses to close sales

-How post-challenge follow-up helps to build relationships

-How to create a downsell to increase conversions

-Conclusion and how to interact with Mikhail

Get in Touch with Mikhail Kuznetsov:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mvkbiz/

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast?sub_confirmation=1

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

Why Leaders Make Millions While Managers Stay Stuck—The Secret to Earning More Apr 08, 2025

Are your teams just getting by or thriving under true leadership? Today, I sit down with leadership expert Andy Neillie to discuss why leadership always trumps management. Andy, who has spent years working with teams around the world, shares invaluable insights on transforming managers into high-performing leaders.

We explore different leadership styles, discuss the importance of being kind versus nice, and how to handle tough conversations without damaging trust.

Andy's years of experience, along with the strategies he’s developed, will help you improve your leadership skills while fostering an environment of trust and growth. Tune in now if you’re ready to stop managing and start leading. Be sure to subscribe to our Visionary Vault for expert strategies on building high-performing teams and impactful leadership.

In This Episode:

- The difference between leadership and management

- Why managers struggle to transition into leadership

- How a manager's lack of leadership impacts the team

- Common leadership traits that demoralize employees

- The importance of trust in leadership

- Balancing empathy and accountability in leadership

- Creating a feedback-friendly environment

- Framework for high-impact leadership conversations

- Foundational skills for aspiring leaders

- How leadership vision unifies teams and drives performance

- Addressing high turnover and its impact on leadership

- How leaders can prevent burnout in teams

- Recommendations for top leadership books and resources

Resources Mentioned In the Episode:

The Four Leadership Necessities Resource: https://neillieleadershipgroup.com/resources/leader-resources/

The Top 20 Leadership Books Blog: https://neillieleadershipgroup.com/the-top-20-leadership-books-for-2024-plus-two-essential-bonus-reads/

What Got You Here Won't Get You There By Marshall Goldsmith: https://a.co/d/eHxzVLH

Atomic Habits By James Clear: https://a.co/d/0zxoKQg

The Discipline of Market Leaders by Michael Treacy: https://a.co/d/68h0xxA

The Leadership Challenge by James Kouzes and Barry Posner: https://a.co/d/h8K8But

Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell: https://a.co/d/7yTQZL6

Explore Free Resources at the Visionary Vault:

Get in Touch with Andy Neillie:

Website: https://neillieleadershipgroup.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andyneillieconsulting/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyneillie

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

https://top10podcasts.com/start

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast?sub_confirmation=1

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

The podcast was produced by Top 10 Podcasts

You’re Losing Customers Because of This One Psychological Mistake (Fix It Now) Apr 01, 2025

Are you struggling with low conversions despite having a great product? Your messaging—not your offer—could be the real problem. In today’s episode, marketing psychology expert Nick Verge reveals the hidden psychological mistake that’s quietly costing you sales and how fixing it could double your revenue overnight.

Nick breaks down how top brands use deep psychological triggers to connect with customers on a subconscious level, driving massive action. He dives into the complexity of consumer psychology and demonstrates how you can craft messages that truly resonate with your audience, beyond just selling a product.

Want to optimize your offers and maximize your sales? Tune in now and grab our free Psychological Triggers Cheat Sheet to start applying these powerful insights today!

In This Episode:

- Introduction to marketing psychology

- Sample case study: transforming a tanked offer

- Research process: getting inside the customer's head

- The power of messaging: the inside-out method

- The role of emotions in marketing

- Mechanisms and quiz funnels that trigger emotions

- Why selling emotions first instead of logic works

- Four steps to improve your marketing message strategy

- The power of research and direct customer interactions

- Testing and optimizing offers for conversion rate optimization

- The importance of team collaboration in copywriting

- Closing thoughts and contact information

Get in Touch with Nick Verge:

Website: https://www.nickverge.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNVD21

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicholasverge/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-verge-196731150

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast?sub_confirmation=1

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

Why Your Marketing and Ops Team Are Near Blows: The Secret to Getting Them Into a High-Performing Team Mar 25, 2025

Hiring the right people isn’t just about finding someone smart or a great team player. It’s about putting the right person in the right role. Too many businesses make the critical mistake of mixing creatives and operators, expecting them to thrive without a proper structure. That often leads to chaos.

So today, I sit down with messaging and leadership expert Yara Golden to unpack why marketing and operations teams often find themselves at odds and, more importantly, how to fix it. We dive into real-world examples of misalignment and how a lack of clear roles and expectations can lead to frustration.

We also explore how to set up iteration loops that allow creatives the freedom to experiment while giving operators the structure they need to keep projects on track. When these teams learn to work together, businesses don’t just grow—they scale with precision and efficiency.

Don’t let the wrong hires or poor management decisions hold your business back. Listen to the conversation and then download our free High-Performance Hiring Blueprint inside our Visionary Vault. The insights will help you hire and manage your team the right way—so you can scale faster and with less stress.

In This Episode:

- Common hiring mistakes business owners make

- A personal example of misalignment in business

- How creatives struggle with operational roles

- The role of operators in structuring creative ideas

- Setting up iteration loops for marketing and operations

- The importance of clear expectations in teamwork

- Why strategy is the foundation of successful execution

- Fixing toxic relationships between creatives and operators

- How to access the free hiring blueprint resource

Get in Touch with Yara Golden:

Website: https://yaragolden.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yaragolden

Instagram: https://instagram.com/yara.golden

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast?sub_confirmation=1

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

The Business Freedom Formula: How to Build Self-Managing Teams That Scale Mar 18, 2025

Too many entrepreneurs start a business for freedom, only to find themselves stuck in endless work, unable to step away without everything falling apart. If that sounds familiar, this episode is for you. I sit down with James P. Friel, business consultant and CEO of FG Ventures, to break down how to build self-managed teams.

James shares the exact Business Freedom Formula that transformed his career and helped countless entrepreneurs scale their businesses while working less. We dive into the power of delegation, systemization, and agile leadership, so you can build a team that runs smoothly—even when you're not there.

If you’ve ever struggled with trusting your team, letting go of control, or making sure the right decisions are made without you, James’ delegation framework will help you free up your time while scaling your business. So, hit play and then visit our Visionary Vault for exclusive resources on this and much more!

In This Episode:

- James' journey from corporate to entrepreneurship

- The concept of a self-managed team

- Challenges when transitioning to a self-managed team

- Why failing to delegate will cost you

- The four levels of the DADD delegation framework

- The role of trust in delegation and how to build it

- Strategies for effective project management

- Evaluating team fit

- How to transition decision-making effectively

- Personal success stories

- Key takeaways and recommendations

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

James Friel’s Article, This 3-Word Mantra Will Make Your Job Easier and Less Stressful: https://www.entrepreneur.com/living/this-3-word-mantra-will-make-your-job-easier-and-less/343679

Jack Welch’s Book, Winning: The Ultimate Business How-To Book: https://a.co/d/0dmixQx

Annie Duke’s Book, Quit: The Power of Knowing When to Walk Away: https://a.co/d/8kWjpp0

Will Storr’s Book, The Status Game: On Human Life and How to Play It: https://a.co/d/eVuORkt

Get in Touch with James P. Friel:

Website: https://jamespfriel.com/

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamespfriel/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/james_p_friel/

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast?sub_confirmation=1

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

Your Retention Sucks! Fix It With Custom Experiences That Skyrocket Your Revenue Mar 11, 2025

Most businesses obsess over customer acquisition but neglect what happens next. If you think a sale is the finish line, you’re leaving money on the table. Today, I am chatting with Mark Stern, founder of Custom Box Agency, to explore how strategic experience design can transform your onboarding, improve retention, and turn customers into loyal advocates.

Mark shares his journey from corporate consulting to entrepreneurship and why a broken onboarding experience inspired him to launch his company. He reveals the psychology behind customer engagement, how to gamify the onboarding process, and why a blend of digital and physical experiences can create a powerful connection with your audience.

If you’re ready to stop losing customers and start creating retention-driven experiences, listen to this insightful conversation and then head over to Custom Box Agency to book a free consultation with Mark’s team.

In this Episode:

- Why onboarding is critical for customer retention

- Mark Stern's journey and business evolution

- How poor onboarding impacts retention and churn rates

- The benefits of blending physical and digital experiences

- Health supplement company's retention strategy

- Travel blogger retention tactics

- Association newsletter ideas

- How to design a strategic customer experience

- Key metrics for evaluating onboarding success

Get in Touch with Mark Stern:

Website: https://customboxagency.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marustern

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marksternofficial/

Get in Touch with Emma Rainville:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast?sub_confirmation=1

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_rainville512/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

Stop the Bleeding and Take Back Your Cash Mar 04, 2025

Are you managing your business costs effectively? Mastering cost management could be the key to driving your company's profitability. So, in today’s episode, we guide you through a tactical approach that turns every dollar into a stepping stone for growth.

You’ll discover how strategic financial analysis can transform the way you manage cash flow. We will unpack the challenges of balancing expenses with growth, offering actionable insights on how to budget, renegotiate contracts, and eliminate wasteful costs.

You’ll also learn why cost accounting isn’t just about tracking dollars in and out but about ensuring every investment returns multiple times over. Tune in now for an actionable guide to mastering cost management, and visit our Visionary Vault for additional resources and action guides to simplify your financial planning process.

In this Episode:

- Introduction to cost management

- Understanding cost management and financial planning

- Why businesses need "proper" financials

- Actionable steps for cost management

- Final thoughts and free resources on cost management

Get in Touch with Us:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast?sub_confirmation=1

Instagram:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

LinkedIn:

How to Convert 100x More Leads (Using This 5-Minute Rule) Feb 25, 2025

If your competitors are answering the phone faster than you, they’re taking your business! Studies show that responding to a lead within five minutes makes them 100 times more likely to convert—yet most businesses take hours if not days.

In this episode, we dive into lead response mastery, showing you how to optimize your sales process, engage potential customers immediately, and ensure you’re the first (and best) option they choose.

We’ll walk you through key strategies, from leveraging automation and AI to hiring low-cost offshore team members who can engage leads in real time. Whether it’s abandoned carts, booked calls, or live chat, you’ll learn how to refine every touchpoint in your customer journey for maximum conversions.

Don’t let slow response times cost you revenue. Listen in and then grab our Lead Response Time Mastery Guide in the members’ portal —implement our proven tactics and watch your business grow!

In this Episode:

- Introduction to lead response mastery

- Key metrics for lead response time

- Customer service and sales metrics

- Sales automation and tools for lead response

- Optimizing the customer experience

- Action steps for improving lead response

- How to access the lead response resources

Get in Touch with Us:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast?sub_confirmation=1

Instagram:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

LinkedIn:

Pinpoint The MOST Profitable Customers By Fixing THIS Feb 18, 2025

Bad data leads to bad decisions—period. If you’re not tracking the right numbers (or worse, not tracking them at all), you’re flying blind and burning money in the process. In today’s episode, we share just a systematic approach to tracking the right data and making moves based on what actually works.

We get into why most businesses measure CLTV the wrong way and how the order in which customers see your products directly impacts how much they spend. We talk about email marketing and share practical strategies, such as offering incentives and intentional engagement for customer retention.

If you’re still relying on gut instinct instead of clear, data-driven insights, you’re wasting time, money, and opportunities. Listen to the full episode and then grab our Data Quality Mastery Guide to start scaling your business on purpose.

In this Episode:

- The importance of data quality

- The power of data insights

- Understanding Customer Lifetime Value (CLTV)

- Optimizing customer journeys to increase lifetime value

- Mastering split testing to boost ROI

- How to optimize membership retention

- Effective email marketing strategies

- Leveraging data for better marketing

- Free resources for data analysis

Get in Touch with Us:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast?sub_confirmation=1

Instagram:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

LinkedIn:

He Built a Billion Dollar Video Production Company in a Year! Feb 11, 2025

What does it take to go from having no systems to running a thriving agency in a year? We sit down with Chris Encarnacion to uncover his incredible journey. A year ago, Chris was just figuring out the basics. Today, he's running multiple VSL productions across cities with a strong team that has transformed his business—and his life.

From brutal work hours to building a dream team and saying no to misaligned clients, Chris shares how he went from burnout to mastery. Chris explains the value of relentless hustle and learning from failure, but here’s the twist—hard work alone won’t scale you.

He reveals how shifting focus from talent to values helped him build a team he trusts and why having clear systems, SOPs, and KPIs became his agency’s game-changer. If you’re a business owner struggling to scale or a leader stuck doing all the things, this conversation is for you.

Plus, Chris is offering a free VSL audit for our listeners. Head over to https://specialopspodcast.com/ to grab this opportunity and level up your video content today!

In this Episode:

- Chris Encarnacion's journey to success

- Building a strong team

- From survival mode to a clear vision

- Finding the right clients

- Scaling with systems and leadership

- Why the speed of implementation is critical

- Being able to say ‘no’ when it's not a fit

Explore Free Resources at the Visionary Vault:

Connect with Chris Encarnacion:

Website:https://chris78744.wixsite.com/vsl-adz-3

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-encarnacion-347179134

Get in Touch with Us:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast?sub_confirmation=1

Instagram:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

LinkedIn:

Merchant Accounts Simplified: Avoid Fees, Reduce Risks, and Scale Easily Feb 04, 2025

If you've ever struggled with navigating payment processing, reducing fees, or avoiding pitfalls like chargebacks or frozen funds, this conversation is a must-listen. We're sharing hard-earned insights and proven strategies to help you keep your merchant accounts healthy and your profits flowing.

We break down the essentials every business owner needs to know about merchant accounts and share tips for preparing your business to handle growth without scaring off your payment processors.

You'll learn how to communicate effectively with brokers and processors to prevent surprises and stay ahead of the game. Plus, we dig into the numbers that matter most—keeping your chargebacks and refund rates in check while avoiding red flags.

Whether you're just starting out or scaling rapidly, understanding the nuances of merchant accounts can be the difference between smooth sailing and unexpected financial setbacks. Tune in for actionable insights to optimize your accounts and protect your business’s bottom line.

YouTube Timestamps

- What is a merchant account?

- When to transition to a dedicated merchant account

- How to apply for a merchant account

- Managing merchant accounts when scaling

- Best practices for healthy merchant accounts

- Why consistency and business updates matter to merchants

- How to access resources on merchant account management

Get Exclusive Resources on Merchant Accounts Management:

Get in Touch with Us:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast?sub_confirmation=1

Instagram:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

LinkedIn:

Health Optimization: Could a Simple Mineral Test Save Your Life? Jan 28, 2025

Are you living optimally? What if the key to reaching your peak performance lies in something as simple as minerals? Barton Scott, a chemical engineer and founder of Upgraded Formulas, joins us to share his compelling journey from personal tragedy to pioneering breakthroughs in health optimization.

You’ll hear the pivotal story of how a preventable loss reshaped his mission and led to a revolutionary approach to wellness—one that focuses on actionable steps, accurate testing, and building sustainable health from the inside out.

Barton explains how mineral deficiencies are often the hidden culprits behind many chronic or severe health issues. You’ll discover why traditional blood tests aren’t enough, why tissue testing is a game-changer, and how identifying and addressing your unique deficiencies can radically improve your energy, focus, and overall quality of life.

Ready to reclaim your energy and vitality? Join the conversation now for practical steps and the tools you need to live life optimally.

In this episode:

- Introducing Barton Scott

- The importance of minerals in health

- Testing and understanding your body functions

- Challenges with the traditional healthcare system

- Upgraded Formulas’ philosophy of health and wellness

- Conclusion and action steps

Get in Touch with Barton Scott:

Website:https://www.upgradedformulas.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/askbarton/?hl=en

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/1bartonscott

Get in Touch with Us:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast?sub_confirmation=1

Instagram:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

LinkedIn:

Inflation-Proofing Your Business: Strategies for Resilience Jan 21, 2025

Since February 2020, consumer prices have surged by an unprecedented 21.2%—a sharp contrast to the 18.9% increase over the entire decade from 2010 to 2019. Today, we’ll focus on this spike in inflation, its financial strain on your business, and the urgent need for strategies to protect profitability amidst rising costs.

We’ll cover seven essential strategies for inflation-proofing your business and explore practical ways to protect your margins without losing customers. We'll also discuss the value of optimizing your supply chain and why AI can be your best friend in streamlining operations.

Plus, we’ll share the inspiring example of Campbell’s Soup, a brand that’s thrived through multiple economic downturns, showing you how smart marketing can make all the difference.

Don’t forget to check out our free resource guide in the Visionary Vault to get even more tips on safeguarding your business in these challenging times.

Episode Highlights:

- Strategy #1: Understand how inflation impacts your business

- Strategy #2: Adjust pricing without losing customers

- Strategy #3: Improve operational efficiency and profit margins

- Strategy #4: Optimize your supply chain for cost savings

- Strategy #5: Focus on marketing that builds long-term value

- Strategy #6: Cutting unnecessary costs without losing quality

- Strategy #7: Building long-term customer loyalty through engagement

- Recap: 7 key strategies to inflation-proof your business

Explore Free Resources at the Visionary Vault:

Get in Touch with Us:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast?sub_confirmation=1

Instagram:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

LinkedIn:

New FTC & FDA Laws Could Harm Your Business in 2025 Jan 14, 2025

Are you prepared for the regulatory shifts in 2025? Ryan Poteet of Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani joins today’s episode to break down the upcoming FTC and FDA changes that every advertiser and e-commerce entrepreneur needs to know.

Ryan shares his invaluable insights as a partner at one of the nation’s leading advertising and e-commerce law firms. From subscription billing transparency to truth-in-advertising mandates, we discuss the rules that could save your business from hefty fines or legal battles.

And that’s not all—Ryan also reveals insider tips on monitoring affiliate claims, performing compliance audits, and implementing website terms and conditions to protect your business from adverse legal issues.

But it’s not just about avoiding penalties—it’s about staying competitive. Tune in to discover how to stay ahead of the curve and adapt your business model to comply with the changes.

In this episode:

- Introducing Ryan Poteet

- Upcoming FTC and FDA changes in 2025

- Key FTC regulations for advertisers

- Proactive steps for advertisers to comply with regulations

- Predictions for 2025 with the new administration

- Upcoming FDA changes? Telehealth and Telemedicine

- FDA violations and call centers

- Future of some popular weight loss supplements and drugs

- Importance of website terms and conditions

Get in Touch with Ryan Poteet:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-poteet-43098ba

Get in Touch with Us:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast?sub_confirmation=1

Instagram:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

LinkedIn:

Targeting the Right Audience in E-commerce: Proven Strategies to Maximize ROI Jan 07, 2025

Many marketers may spend heavily on advertising but fail to identify the audience that will bring them the highest ROI. Consequently, businesses end up spending more to serve low-value customers, making scaling difficult. Eliminating the wrong customers can prevent losses and increase profitability.

In this week’s episode, we explore the critical importance of targeting the right audience for your e-commerce business and discuss how to build a detailed customer avatar by understanding the emotional and social needs of your best customers.

You’ll learn how to refine your marketing strategies, identify high-value customers, and create multiple audience segments based on different product mechanisms.

Whether you’re offering products or services, tune in to this episode for practical tips on maximizing your e-commerce campaigns and ensuring you're reaching the right audience!

Episode Highlights:

- The importance of refining your target audience based on customer lifetime value (CLTV)

- Strategies for expanding your product to new audiences using different mechanisms

- Why you should create an anti-avatar

- The risks of selling to the wrong customers

- How to build a community around your product to gain deeper audience insights

- Actionable steps for optimizing customer targeting

Explore Free Resources at the Visionary Vault:

Get in Touch with Us:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast?sub_confirmation=1

Instagram:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

LinkedIn:

How Risk Reversal Can Boost Your Sales Success with Jason Fladlien Dec 31, 2024

Many marketers focus only on their product's benefits and ignore the risks that potential customers consider, including money, time, and energy. By reducing these risks, marketers can build trust and make offers more appealing, which increases conversions.

The quarter-billion-dollar webinar man, Jason Fladlien, joins us today as we explore risk reversal in marketing. He introduces innovative ways to mitigate risks, explaining how even capping potential outcomes can build trust and drive conversions.

Jason explains how he operationalizes risk reversal through practical strategies like conditional coaching, offering you an insider look at turning bold promises into reality. His approach to creating and scaling offers ensures that businesses over-deliver while keeping risks low.

Tune in to learn how you can transform your marketing, reduce customer hesitation, and build unbeatable offers that keep clients coming back for more.

Episode Highlights:

- The three key risks every customer considers and how to address each

- Why energy risk is often the biggest hurdle in sales and how to tackle it

- The concept of conditional coaching and how it enhances customer commitment

- Jason's method for creating "fantasy offers" and scaling them to reality

- Practical steps to blend operations and sales for seamless delivery and trust-building

Get in Touch with Us:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@specialopspodcast?sub_confirmation=1

Instagram:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmarainvilleoperationsguru

LinkedIn:

The WAVE System: A Strategic Plan That ACTUALLY Works Dec 24, 2024

Strategic planning doesn’t have to be overwhelming or reactive. In today’s episode, I’m walking you through the WAVE System—a proven method to help you achieve clarity, align your team, and crush your 2025 goals.

You’ll learn how to craft a 10-year vision that aligns with your life, turn goals into actionable commitments, and stay focused on what matters most. We’ll explore how to build a values-driven team and execute a clear plan to achieve tangible results—all while avoiding common entrepreneurial pitfalls.

Tune in now, and let’s build the roadmap that will take your business to the next level. Don’t forget to grab your WAVE System Checklist from the Visionary Vault.

Episode Highlights:

- How a structured plan can create a competitive edge for your business

- How to use the WAVE System to align business operations for success

- Steps to writing a 10-year vision that aligns your personal and professional life

- Why commitments guarantee progress and how to define them for your business

- Avoiding distractions and sticking to your business's core purpose

- How to create an avatar for your team and define non-negotiable traits

- Business execution plan essentials and common mistakes to avoid

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The podcast was produced by Top 10 Podcasts https://top10podcasts.com/start

End-of-Year Budget Evaluation for Faster Growth in 2025 Dec 17, 2024

Year-end budget evaluations are an instrumental tool for achieving sustainable growth and financial stability. In today’s episode, I provide a step-by-step guide to financial evaluations, including patterns in revenue streams and expenses. I also highlight the need to calculate ROI for major expenses to ensure resources are allocated to activities that drive maximum returns.

You’ll learn how to set SMART financial goals for 2025 and discover strategies for creating monthly budget monitoring systems. I share common pitfalls to avoid, such as ignoring small recurring expenses and failing to adjust budgets based on real-world outcomes.

Join the conversation now for actionable budgeting advice and resources, including a free budget evaluation checklist and a planning toolkit to help you take control of your business finances and make 2025 the best year yet.

Episode Highlights:

- Why year-end budget evaluations are crucial for sustainable growth

- How to review 2024 financials to identify overspending

- Calculating the ROI of major expenses and investments

- The SMART financial goal framework for 2025

- Simple tips for cutting costs and reallocating funds strategically

- How to adapt budgets to external factors

- How to align budgets with operational and marketing strategies

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The podcast was produced by Top 10 Podcasts https://top10podcasts.com/start

Holiday Bonus vs Performance Bonus: What Really Works? Dec 10, 2024

Bonuses are more than extra cash; they reflect how much a company values and motivates its team members. Today, we explore bonus structures and their impact on team morale, loyalty, and productivity. From holiday bonuses as gestures of goodwill to performance bonuses tied to measurable achievements, we explore how different types of rewards drive results.

You’ll learn about performance-based bonuses that motivate employees to deliver results consistently and how end-of-year bonuses can foster a sense of belonging.

We highlight strategies for hybrid bonus models and why effective communication and transparency are critical to maintaining trust and clarity in any bonus system.

Join us for this insightful discussion and valuable strategies to design a bonus structure that aligns with your company’s goals and employee expectations. Don’t forget to visit our Visionary Vault for free resources to help you implement these ideas!

Episode Highlights:

- Why bonuses matter for employee morale and loyalty

- The pros and cons of holiday and performance bonuses

- Why performance-based rewards drive results

- Costly bonus mistakes every business should avoid

- Effective strategies for hybrid bonus models

- The importance of clear communication and transparency

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The podcast was produced by Top 10 Podcasts https://top10podcasts.com/start

Profit Boosting Strategies For Visionary Entrepreneurs Dec 03, 2024

Profit margins are essential KPIs because they reveal a business's financial health. By optimizing profit margins, businesses improve cash flow, make informed financial decisions, and ensure sustainable growth. Today, we’re diving into profit-boosting strategies that every visionary entrepreneur should know.

We’ll break down how understanding and improving profit margins is essential to business success, with a focus on knowing where each dollar is spent. You'll gain insights into analyzing KPIs, streamlining tech stacks, and cutting redundant software costs that can quietly eat into profits.

We’ll explore how customer service can transform into a revenue-generating powerhouse with smart retention strategies while efficient fulfillment and inventory control prevent costly errors. We also discuss the power of data in scaling your business and understanding customer lifetime value.

Join us for impactful strategies that will help you scale your business. Also, check out our membership area for a "Profit Health Quiz" that helps identify areas of financial weakness, a manual on reading profit and loss (P&L) statements, and guidance on understanding balance sheets.

Episode Highlights:

- Understanding and improving profit margins for business success

- Analyzing KPIs to track financial health and identify issues

- Streamlining tech stacks and cutting redundant software expenses

- How to transform customer service into a revenue-generating department

- Enhancing fulfillment processes and inventory control to prevent costly errors

- Leveraging data for better decision-making and business growth

- Recognizing customer lifetime value for effective resource allocation

- Optimizing labor with efficient processes to avoid unnecessary hires

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The podcast was produced by Top 10 Podcasts https://top10podcasts.com/start

Why Your 7-Figure Business Is Stuck (And How to Fix It) Nov 26, 2024

Many entrepreneurs feel stuck after reaching the seven-figure milestone in their business. Hitting that milestone is a huge accomplishment, but we know staying stuck at a plateau isn’t uncommon. The good news is you can break through to the next level of growth if you know the pitfalls to avoid.

In today’s episode, we’ll explore the common mistakes that entrepreneurs make that cause their successful businesses to stagnate. We will also highlight how people development and effective communication channels support your growing business.

Ready to break through your business plateau? Listen now for actionable steps on how to scale a business beyond seven figures. Remember to visit our Visionary Fault for exclusive tools to fuel your growth.

Episode Highlights:

- Why a lack of foundational framework keeps seven-figure businesses stuck

- The role of operational frameworks in creating consistency and efficiency

- How founders often become the bottleneck and limit business growth

- Why trust and delegation are essential to scaling beyond seven figures

- How to access free tools and resources to implement growth strategies successfully

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The podcast was produced by Top 10 Podcasts https://top10podcasts.com/start

How to Fire Yourself As a CEO (Step by Step) Nov 19, 2024

Today, we tackle a bold move that every entrepreneur should consider: firing yourself as the CEO. Many founders unknowingly become the bottleneck in their own businesses, stalling growth and exhausting themselves in the process. By trying to handle every decision, from marketing to product development, you may be limiting your company’s potential.

We’ll explore why letting go of control is the key to true growth, how you can begin delegating responsibilities effectively, and the importance of building a strong operations team. We also share real-world examples of businesses that turned their performance around after making this critical shift.

Tune in to learn how transitioning to a strategic leadership role can free up your time, increase shareholder value, and boost business growth.

Be sure to visit our Visionary Vault for useful resources like our Entrepreneur's Guide on how to fire yourself as CEO and scale your business to new heights.

Episode Highlights:

- The dangers of becoming the bottleneck in your business

- How to build an effective operations team and hire a strong COO.

- How to effectively transition into a strategic leadership role

- Practical steps to delegate and build trust with your team

Explore Free Resources at the Visionary Vault:

Get in touch with Perry Belcher:

Website: https://perrybelcher.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perry.belcher

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The Key to Thriving Business Partnerships: Clear Roles, Communication, and Trust Nov 12, 2024

Business partnerships often fail because of unclear roles and unspoken expectations. Without defined responsibilities, tension and misunderstandings build up quickly. Today, we’ll explore how clear communication and role definition can save your partnership from falling apart and set the stage for long-term success.

We will outline the essentials of building successful business partnerships and discuss the common pitfalls that lead many partnerships to fail.

With real-life examples and insights from partnerships that both thrived and faltered, this episode equips you with the tools to prepare for a lasting business relationship. Plus, don’t miss the actionable steps and free guide on navigating business partnership agreements both operationally and legally.

Episode Highlights:

- Why clear roles and expectations are crucial for avoiding conflicts

- The role of regular communication in keeping partners aligned

- How constructive conflict and criticism helps the partnership grow

- Lessons from real-life partnerships on making difficult decisions and planning for exits

- How to access free resources for setting up successful business partnerships

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Direct Response Marketing is Dying: What You Need To Know with Perry Belcher Nov 12, 2024

We sat down with legendary marketer Perry Belcher, also known as the "godfather of marketing," to discuss why direct response marketing appears to be dwindling. Perry shares profound insights on the evolution of direct response marketing, highlighting its challenges in today’s information-saturated world.

Our conversation also touches on the psychological barriers that prevent people from acting on readily available information.

Perry anticipates future trends, like the growing importance of influencer marketing, AI integration with robotics, and the impact of an aging population (silver tsunami).

Tune in to gain exclusive insights into the future of direct response marketing, trend-hunting, and why, as Perry says, timing is everything.

Episode Highlights:

- The evolution and state of direct response marketing

- How fear of failure leads to inaction

- Confidence vs. competence in business success

- Why live, interactive experiences are thriving

- Perry’s top investment picks

- The rise of influencers and how they help audiences overcome decision fatigue

- Perry’s perspective on charismatic leaders

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Get in touch with Perry Belcher:

Website: https://perrybelcher.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perry.belcher

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Selling Your Business? Avoid These Costly Exit Mistakes and Pitfalls with Kasim Aslam Nov 12, 2024

Many business owners underestimate the complexities of exit deals and make mistakes that lead to reduced sale value, unfavorable terms, and financial challenges post-exit. We sit down with Kasim Aslam, founder and CEO of Solutions 8, to unpack the hard truths behind selling a business.

We dig into asset purchase agreements, where Kasim emphasizes getting all important details in plain language within the contract. We also talk about the intense due diligence process that buyers use to exhaust sellers.

Time and again, entrepreneurs underestimate the importance of specialized legal counsel. You’ll learn how the right mergers and acquisitions (M&A) attorney helps you sidestep legal pitfalls that could cost millions.

If you are considering an exit, this episode offers invaluable insights to avoid common pitfalls and build a lasting legacy. Tune in to discover why terms often matter more than the price and the critical importance of maintaining liquidity post-exit.

Episode Highlights:

- Why understanding all the terms in an asset purchase agreement (APA) is critical

- The risks of trusting personal relationships over contract terms

- Why specialized M&A lawyers are essential for navigating exit deals

- Why terms of the deal matter more than the price offered

- The importance of maintaining liquidity post-sale

- How the "renewable money” principle works

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Get in Touch with Kasim Aslam:

Website: https://kasimaslam.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kasimaslam/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kasimaslam

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Election Year of Chaos: How Political Campaigns Will Disrupt Your Ad Spend Nov 01, 2024

Political ad spending is set to skyrocket to $2.64 billion this election year, a 28% increase from the previous election cycle. As businesses struggle to compete for attention in a media landscape flooded with campaign ads, how can you protect your social media ROI and stay ahead?

Today, we explore the impact that political campaigns have on your marketing budget. We offer actionable strategies to help you navigate this season’s ad spend challenges and optimize your marketing efforts.

You’ll learn how to leverage your own channels, create high-quality content, and navigate the political noise without picking sides. Stay tuned until the end for a free downloadable checklist designed to safeguard your marketing budget from political and economic turbulence.

Episode Highlights:

- How increased competition for media placements affects businesses

- Why ad fatigue and audience exhaustion are risks

- How staying neutral in Facebook ads can benefit your business

- How to leverage your own channels to keep your brand visible

- Why producing high-quality, polished content matters

- How sharing positive and unifying stories connects with your audience

- How to protect your ad spend during election season

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