If you’re curious how podcast interview marketing really works, what drives entrepreneurial success, and why relationships and adaptability matter more than ever, this conversation is a must-listen!

Glenn Harper and Julie Smith sit down with Tom Schwab, the founder and chief evangelist of Interview Valet—a company that’s helping entrepreneurs and thought leaders amplify their message through targeted podcast interviews.

The Entrepreneur’s Mindset: "I know what I want out of life and I'm just saying a job is not going to get me there. I'll work really, really hard, but I want to have more control in my life." - Tom Schwab

In this episode, Tom Schwab shares stories from his diverse journey: growing up in the Midwest, learning lessons in entrepreneurship from his grandfather, caddying at country clubs, and even running nuclear power plants aboard an aircraft carrier after graduating from the Naval Academy. Tom discusses how these experiences shaped his entrepreneurial mindset, how relationships serve as the ultimate currency, and why being psychologically self-employed is vital for team building.

We talk about the origins of Interview Valet, the evolution of marketing through podcasting, and how AI is changing the game—and ask Tom to break down exactly how his company connects clients to their ideal audiences. He also gets personal, highlighting the mentors who’ve impacted his trajectory, the mindset necessary to pivot and grow, and what “retirement” means for a true entrepreneur.

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Here are 3 key takeaways:

• Relationships are the ultimate currency: Tom Schwab credits his grandfather’s example for teaching him the lasting value of genuine connections in business and life.
• Entrepreneurship is an evolution, not a revolution: Whether you’re born with the drive or are shaped by your environment, adaptability and curiosity open new doors and opportunities.
• AI is a tool—amplify your brilliance, not your noise: Embrace technology as an amplifier for your message, but remember that effectiveness still comes down to authentic engagement and adding value.

Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.

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Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year.

An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family.

Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast.

Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree.

Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper

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