Disrupt, Lead, Conquer: Carl Gould’s Bold Strategies for Growth
Carl Gould is a renowned business strategist and entrepreneur who has significantly impacted leaders and companies worldwide. With over 7,000 business leaders coached across 35+ countries, his direct, no-nonsense approach has transformed how businesses grow and thrive in today’s fast-paced environment.
Gould’s journey began at 18 when he launched his first business. Despite a career-altering injury in his early twenties, he pivoted into coaching, determined to help others avoid the pitfalls he witnessed in the business world.
As the founder of 7 Stage Advisors, Gould has developed a reputation for delivering measurable results, working closely with clients to execute actionable strategies that drive growth. His expertise spans various industries, from tech and manufacturing to finance, making him a sought-after voice in today’s ever-evolving market. Gould’s insights into automation, AI, and leadership challenges continue to shape the future of entrepreneurship.
In this interview, Gould shares his journey, offers invaluable advice for business owners, and highlights the trends shaping industries’ future worldwide.
How did you get started in your career as a business coach?
You’re known for your direct, no-nonsense coaching style. Can you give us some background on what inspired you to become a business coach?
Carl Gould: I’ve always been entrepreneurial, starting my first business at 18. However, an injury at 22 forced me to pivot. During that time, I realized many businesses were failing because they didn’t have the right strategies in place. I couldn’t just sit back and watch that happen, so I began coaching entrepreneurs and leaders to prevent them from falling into the same traps. It’s all about understanding the system, and I’m here to guide them through it.
You’ve coached over 7,000 business leaders in 35+ countries. What’s the secret behind your approach?
Carl Gould: No fluff, just results. Businesses don’t need more theory—they need actionable steps to grow. I developed the “7 Stage Growth Method” based on my experiences across various industries. Each business goes through seven stages, and if you understand where you are, you can figure out the next best move. My focus is on getting leaders to implement strategies and avoid getting bogged down by day-to-day operations.
Your coaching programs attract everyone from solo entrepreneurs to large corporations. What’s the biggest challenge business leaders face today?
Carl Gould: Distraction. With all the noise—social media, competitors, or the economy—leaders struggle to stay focused on what really matters. The biggest challenge is cutting through the clutter and staying laser-focused on executing the core activities that drive growth.
You’ve worked across multiple industries, including tech, manufacturing, and finance. What market trends are you seeing, and how do you help your clients capitalize on them?
Carl Gould: Automation and AI are reshaping industries. Businesses that embrace this shift will have a massive edge over their competitors. I tell my clients to stop fearing change and start leveraging it. Whether it’s in manufacturing, tech, or service industries, automation is the future. We help clients adopt these tools without losing their competitive edge.
Can you share a couple of your top growth hacks?
Carl Gould:
- Review your pricing strategy: 20% of your customers would likely purchase an upgraded suite of products or services if offered. Also, 4% of your clientele, your raving fans, would likely purchase a premium product or service. Give them the opportunity to do so.
- Form joint ventures: Find a company that offers non-competitive services to the same ideal customer. Cross-promote each other’s services to your respective client bases. You’re likely sitting on untapped customer opportunities in your databases.
What are some personal habits, routines, or tools that help you stay focused and efficient in your daily life?
Carl Gould: I hold a pre-meeting with my administrative team first thing in the morning to address any daily issues. This allows them to spend the day working on those issues while freeing my mind to focus on more strategic tasks. Outside of work, I recharge by hiking, biking, golfing, and swimming; anything outdoors helps me clear my mind. I also make sure to stay connected with mentors, follow TED talks, and read about hyper-growth companies. While I don’t get a lot of sleep, around 4 to 6 hours a night, I still find time to enjoy vacations in places like South Africa, the Jersey Shore, or Colorado.
What’s your view on the role of AI and automation in today’s business environment? How should companies position themselves?
Carl Gould: AI and automation are no longer trends—they’re becoming the backbone of efficiency across industries. Companies that embrace these technologies will gain a significant competitive advantage. I advise clients to invest in automation strategically. Don’t fear it—leverage it to cut costs, improve productivity, and free up time for higher-value tasks.
What’s the one piece of advice you give to all your clients, no matter what stage of business they’re in?
Carl Gould: Know your numbers. If you can’t tell me your critical financial numbers off the top of your head, you’re already behind. Every business must know its break-even point, profitability margins, and cash flow at all times. That’s non-negotiable.
Jed Morley, VIP Contributor to WealthDefined and the host of this interview would like to thank Carl Gould for taking the time to do this interview and share his knowledge and experience with our readers.
If you would like to get in touch with Carl Gould or his company, you can do it through his – Linkedin Page
