Michael Nelson

Small Farmer. Free Speech Absolutist. Small Business Owner. Occasionally funny.

[Michael Nelson @5tmichael]

A conversation changed Todd Bailey's business forever when a client told him to raise his prices. If you're a creative professional or a fractional operator, this lesson on value and business growth is worth a listen.

Listen to the full episode now!

https://t.co/WGVo7xyAFK

[Michael Nelson @5tmichael]

Assuming their top performer should train every new employee is an expensive hiring mistake. Bill Tansey Jr. explains why choosing the right trainer can improve onboarding and help employees become productive faster.

Listen to the full episode now!

https://t.co/HEZLA8UjXq

[Michael Nelson @5tmichael]

Discover how modern AAC devices are replacing restrictive methods to unlock language for non-verbal students. Learn how this shift in technology provides non-speaking individuals with access to functional communication.

Listen to the full episode now!

https://t.co/3ByV9L9rEM

[Michael Nelson @5tmichael]

Most fractional COO engagements don’t fail because of strategy. They fail from unclear ownership once execution starts.

This week’s newsletter breaks down where things go wrong—and what has to be true for these engagements to work.

Read it here!

https://t.co/s1pQ6aQinx

[Michael Nelson @5tmichael]

Pitching a $1,000 hourly rate can scare clients away, but pitching a $96,000 fixed-bid project with a rapid ROI gets an immediate "yes." Here's why switching your pricing model to fixed engagements is the ultimate strategy.

Listen to the full episode now

https://t.co/FwmRZVi9bN

[Michael Nelson @5tmichael]

🚀 The first issue of The Fractional Operator is live.

Insights for fractional COOs, CFOs, CMOs, consultants, and agency owners on AI, client delivery, growth, and scaling a fractional practice.

https://t.co/39BjxQAHp5

[Michael Nelson @5tmichael]

Discover how the Ballston Spa Farmers' Market attracted thousands of visitors after introducing their highly successful Peach Fest. Market Manager Steve Miraglia shares the secret to helping new local businesses thrive.

Listen to the full episode now!

https://t.co/uQmQXD76t2

[Michael Nelson @5tmichael]

The number of fractional operators continues to rise, creating new growth opportunities. In this debut episode of The Fractional Operator, I explore how the best fractional leaders are building very successful businesses.

Listen to the full episode now!

https://t.co/rF6gUV2mRl

[Michael Nelson @5tmichael]

At AstroWatt Electric, Tom Jameson believes taking care of your team goes beyond paychecks—every employee has access to confidential mental health support. Employee wellness can help build a thriving trades business!

Listen to the full episode now!

https://t.co/4XuJQDypxB

[Michael Nelson @5tmichael]

Denver Whetten explains why the construction companies that develop the most leaders ultimately win in today’s competitive trades industry. Leadership development helped scale his business and strengthen the company culture.

Listen to the episode now!

https://t.co/kbk6ev4nka

[Michael Nelson @5tmichael]

@Kshi_nippon @GGunthorp They do the same thing all over here in the US.

[Michael Nelson @5tmichael]

If you are constantly saying you can't find good employees, it is time to stop making excuses and build an recruiting effort like the team at @BrodyPhvac. Watch how taking active control allows you to scale your company.

Listen to the full episode now!

https://t.co/8KqBBRk45k

[Michael Nelson @5tmichael]

SSLLC Plumbing founder Scott Sypniewski quit his job and got offered $7.2M in work the same day. Here’s how extreme ownership and leadership helped turn that opportunity into a $25M+ plumbing company.

Listen to the full episode now!

https://t.co/v8MmaOMgV2

[Michael Nelson @5tmichael]

Most business owners waste time fixing symptoms instead of identifying the real problem. Bill Tansey Jr says, if you don’t clearly define the issue first, every solution you try after is just guesswork—and usually a waste.

Listen to the full episode now!

https://t.co/DhwBmiKPgu

[Michael Nelson @5tmichael]

James Bruchac tells the story of building a fire from scratch before lunch was even over, proving these skills are very real and very useful. At Ndakinna, moments like this are what make survival training come alive.

Listen to the full episode now!

https://t.co/xI2hzGgCVz

[Michael Nelson @5tmichael]

Your very first clients are likely already in your contacts app, so stop overcomplicating your startup marketing and simply pick up the phone. A quick check-in with your personal network is a zero-cost way to get the word out.

Listen to the episode now!

https://t.co/sttPW6fFPT

[Michael Nelson @5tmichael]

Jay Ingleston reminds us that you don’t have to pretend to be strong for anyone. His words cut through the noise with a simple truth that more people need to hear.

Listen to the full episode of the Buying Local podcast now!

https://t.co/RepV0i9NO0

[Michael Nelson @5tmichael]

Sarah Patrie breaks down one of the biggest misconceptions in the trades: you’re not supposed to have all the answers, especially early on. She shares how growth really comes from asking questions and learning in real time.

Listen to the full episode now

https://t.co/epx9o3Itly

[Michael Nelson @5tmichael]

Codey Gandy breaks down the big misconception in business: leadership is not about titles or authority, it is about influence. If you think being in charge makes you a leader, this perspective might change your mind.

Listen to the full episode now!

https://t.co/TFxuUNYLno

[Michael Nelson @5tmichael]

Bethanie Lawrence shares one of the most unique aspects of the @WorldKidsMuseum, a collection of over 8,000 pieces of art created by children from around the world.

Listen to the full episode, out now!

https://t.co/xbKjapU9Lz