Kwedar & Co. Favorites
Whether you’re just getting started, or you’re on the lookout for better ways to do business, here are some tools, apps, books, and courses that we swear by. (And, since we’re a business… some of these links are affiliate links; thanks for your support!)
P.S. if you’d rather simply outsource everything, let’s talk!
Dubsado
We use Dubsado for our CRM, proposals, contracts, payments, forms, and more. Lots of automation options to help you focus on what’s important.
Business Made Simple University
We believe in a lifelong relationship with learning. With BMSU, we have access to an incredible inventory of courses to help you run your business and lead it well. From messaging, marketing, leadership, negotiation, and more, Business Made Simple University is always adding new courses - all for one flat annual fee.
StoryBrand Live Workshop
Do you love StoryBrand? Would you like to spend two days with Don Miller, J.J. Peterson, and other StoryBrand all-stars, while being mentored by a StoryBrand Certified Guide? These regularly-scheduled workshops are a great, inspiring way to refresh your messaging and marketing.
Flodesk
For the most beautiful emails around, check out Flodesk. We love their features and stylish branding so you can showcase great images and great content. Flodesk also has workflows and landing pages.
Canva
Canva is probably one of the greatest small business tools of all time. Create (almost) everything you need for your marketing in this robust web app. Go Pro for extra features.
Otter.ai
Easily get audio recording and transcriptions of in-person conversations or conference calls (Zoom, Google Meet, etc.). Never miss a moment again while furiously taking notes!
PodMatch
Looking to appear on podcasts? PodMatch is a great service that matches podcast hosts with guests. We’ve been using it for years and recommend it to all of our clients interested in guesting opportunities.
Building A StoryBrand
If you’re struggling to communicate in a way customers will listen, pick up Donald Miller’s “Building A StoryBrand”. You’ll never look at stories the same way again.
Mindset
Dr. Dweck’s book “Mindset” will change your life. If you want to achieve your potential and be a better business person, spouse, parent, etc., get your copy today.
Will Guidara’s Unreasonable Hospitality will inspire you to be a better leader and business owner. Having solid processes and delivering what you promised are table stakes - that’s what everyone expects when they do business with you. Unreasonable Hospitality shows you how to wow your team and your clients, again and again.
If Building A StoryBrand provides foundational brand and marketing messaging, They Ask You Answer will give you the playbook to create a inbound marketing engine that will transform the sales of your company.
If you’re tired of linear, incremental growth and are ready for exponential growth, 10X Is Easier Than 2X will get your team thinking and scheming for how to leap forward. PS - the audio version of this book has a podcast feel!
Bird by Bird
Written by the incredible, empathetic, hilarious Anne Lamott, “Bird by Bird” is a must-read for every writer, regardless of level.
Atomic Habits
Feeling overwhelmed? Make small changes to reach your goals. This book and all of Clear’s resources are must-haves for everyone (get his newsletter here).
Getting Things Done
David Allen is the OG King of, well, getting things done. Your mind is meant for creativity, not storage. Grab this book and get ready to get things done!
Soundtracks
This quick read (or listen) is a fantastic how-to on changing the soundtrack of lies we tell and believe about ourselves. Add it to your queue ASAP.
Free to Focus
This book changed how we look at how we spend our time, as well as how and when we delegate. A must-read for anyone wanting to optimize their life!
The 1-Page Marketing Plan
Looking for an easy-to-understand book on marketing with great, actionable advice? This is it!
Hero on a Mission
Feeling like your life could use some more meaning? Check out the latest book from Donald Miller, and learn how you may be holding yourself back.
The Five Dysfunctions of a Team
A must-read for any leader! Really great advice on team dynamics, all told as a compelling fable.
Scaling Up
Verne Harnish is the founder of YPO and EO, and his book Scaling Up is the playbook for EO’s Accelerator program. Worth a read!