The Crystal Clear Business’s Podcast

AI isn't coming. It's already here. The question is, are you ready?In this episode of the Crystal Clear Business Podcast, Crystal sits down with Anne Landstrom, founder of Crowne AI, to explore how entrepreneurs can confidently embrace artificial intelligence without feeling overwhelmed. Anne shares why she pivoted from an award-winning photography career into AI education and why she's passionate about helping women over 40 gain the skills needed to thrive in today's rapidly evolving digital world.Together, they discuss practical AI applications using ChatGPT, Sora, and other emerging tools, while also covering critical topics like AI safety, protecting your personal data, voice cloning scams, and responsible AI adoption. Anne demonstrates how AI can increase creativity, improve productivity, automate repetitive tasks, and help entrepreneurs reclaim valuable time. Whether you're completely new to AI or looking to sharpen your existing skills, this conversation provides actionable advice you can implement immediately.

How do you know if your marketing agency is actually helping your business grow?In this episode of the Crystal Clear Business Podcast, Crystal sits down with Andrew Lowen, founder of Next Level Web and Crowdfunding Nerds, to discuss SEO, digital marketing, crowdfunding, and why transparency is the foundation of successful client relationships. Andrew shares how his team has helped businesses improve Google rankings, generate qualified leads, raise millions through crowdfunding campaigns, and build long-term marketing systems based on measurable results instead of empty promises.Throughout the conversation, Andrew explains why every business is its own marketing puzzle and why understanding your ideal customer is more important than trying to reach everyone. He also discusses common red flags when hiring marketing agencies, how to evaluate SEO work, why your website should act as your best salesperson, and how referral marketing through organizations like BNI can accelerate business growth. Whether you're launching your first business or looking to improve your existing marketing strategy, this episode is packed with practical insights you can implement immediately.

Can you build a profitable short-term rental business without owning property?In this episode of the Crystal Clear Business Podcast, Crystal sits down with Quentin Rest to discuss short-term rentals, Airbnb optimization, wealth building, fractional hosting, and how entrepreneurs can create cash flow through alternative real estate models. Quentin shares how his company helps property owners maximize revenue while creating opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs who want to enter the vacation rental space without the massive capital requirements traditionally associated with real estate investing.The conversation explores the evolution of Airbnb, the difference between property management and revenue optimization, and why many people should focus on cash flow before focusing on ownership. Quentin breaks down concepts like fractional hosting, business credit, rental arbitrage, and short-term rental optimization while offering practical guidance for people looking to create additional income streams or transition toward greater financial freedom. If you've ever wanted to get into vacation rentals but assumed you needed a large amount of money to get started, this episode may change how you think about the industry.

What does it really take to build a successful business without losing yourself in the process?In this episode of the Crystal Clear Business Podcast, Crystal sits down with Wes Marshburn of North County Tree for a conversation about entrepreneurship, leadership, networking, work-life balance, and the lessons that only come through failure and experience. Wes shares his journey from working in tree care to becoming a certified arborist and business owner, along with the mindset shifts that helped him grow both personally and professionally.Crystal and Wes explore why entrepreneurship is more than just a job, how vulnerability creates stronger leadership, and why building meaningful relationships matters just as much as building revenue. They also discuss BNI, client trust, burnout, healthy boundaries, mentorship, emotional resilience, and the importance of creating a business that supports your life instead of consuming it. If you are an entrepreneur trying to grow while staying grounded, this episode delivers practical wisdom and honest perspective.

Today on the Crystal Clear Business Podcast, Crystal sits down with Gerald Lacey II to unpack a journey that runs from the Crenshaw district to the University of Hawaiʻi gridiron—and into purpose-driven tech entrepreneurship. Gerald shares how Where We All Meet (WWAM) aims to be an algorithm-free, privacy-first community platform that encourages authentic meetups, led by local ambassadors and VIP Connects to foster high-trust gatherings. He then introduces Dash Ops, a one-hour local delivery network designed to help small businesses compete by keeping dollars circulating in the neighborhood—along with a philanthropic give-back. Beyond products, Gerald talks mindset: pausing before reacting, leaning into your strengths, and giving teens tangible tools through the Junior Visionary workbook. If you’re building community, launching a local marketplace, or looking for a better way to connect IRL, this conversation delivers a playbook for doing it with love, education, and integrity.

What if better sleep, less inflammation, and a calmer nervous system were one gentle treatment away? Suzanne Armstrong (Bodywork by Suzanne) explains how manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) supports recovery, reduces stress, and helps you show up better at work and at home. In this Crystal Clear Business Podcast episode, Crystal talks with Suzanne Armstrong—massage therapist and MLD specialist—about how a head-on motorcycle collision led her to a calling in manual lymphatic drainage and holistic bodywork. Suzanne breaks down what the lymphatic system does, why gentle pressure can move fluid and reduce inflammation, and how MLD may support sinus relief, post-operative recovery, autoimmune conditions (e.g., MS), and nervous-system regulation (great for high-stress founders and those with PTSD). You’ll learn simple posture and driving tweaks for busy entrepreneurs, when to schedule sessions around travel or surgery, and what to expect on your first visit. We also discuss how joining BNI helped her solo practice grow through community, accountability, and referrals—plus tips for service pros who want to build a sustainable, values-first business.