In this episode of The Flywheel Effect, hosts Brent Sonnek-Schmelz and Matt Bernath dive into the importance of mindset and systems in business growth. Matt shares his transformative experience climbing Mount Whitney, pushing through physical and mental barriers, and discovering new personal limits. His journey becomes a fitting analogy for business owners looking to scale—highlighting the value of preparation, persistence, and adaptability.

The discussion then shifts to the differences between being a dreamer and a doer. Matt challenges the common misconception that business owners who keep their heads down and work tirelessly are true doers. Instead, he argues that real progress comes from investing in systems, leadership, and accountability—ensuring the business can function without constant personal involvement. Brent adds that many entrepreneurs struggle with delegation, often abdicating responsibility instead of creating sustainable processes.

The episode concludes with a conversation on the power of challenging perspectives. Brent and Matt emphasize the importance of surrounding yourself with people who push you to think critically and avoid confirmation bias. They explore how self-awareness, feedback, and open conversations shape strong leaders. Whether in business or personal growth, the key takeaway is clear: success is about intentional action, not just ambition.


Host-at-a-Glance
💡 Name: Brent Sonnek-Schmelz and Matt Bernath


Key Insights

The Difference Between Dreamers and Doers

Many business owners dream of building a company that runs without them, but few take the necessary steps to make it happen. Matt Bernath and Brent Sonnek-Schmelz break down the critical distinction between those who simply have a vision and those who actively work toward it. They discuss how success isn’t just about putting in hours—it’s about setting up systems, developing leadership skills, and making strategic decisions that enable long-term growth. Many entrepreneurs get caught up in daily tasks, mistaking busyness for progress, when in reality, they need to step back and build repeatable processes that allow them to scale. Matt explains that real progress happens when leaders invest in personal development, track key performance indicators (KPIs), and focus on making their business independent of them. By shifting from a task-oriented mindset to a strategic one, business owners can create sustainable growth and freedom.


Delegation vs. Abdication: The Leadership Trap

One of the biggest challenges for business owners is learning how to delegate effectively. Brent and Matt discuss the difference between true delegation and abdication—handing off responsibility without accountability. Many entrepreneurs attempt to step back but fail to establish clear expectations, leading to confusion, inefficiency, and frustration. Delegation isn’t just about assigning tasks; it requires setting up the right processes, defining measurable goals, and tracking progress through KPIs. Without these elements, business owners risk losing control rather than gaining freedom. The conversation also highlights a common misconception among leaders: expecting employees to operate at the same level of efficiency and expertise as the owner. Instead, Matt emphasizes that if employees can execute at 80% of an owner’s capability, that’s a major win. By putting accountability structures in place, leaders can ensure tasks get done without micromanaging—allowing them to truly work on their business rather than being stuck in it.


The Power of Feedback and Constructive Challenge

Growth doesn’t happen in an echo chamber. Brent and Matt discuss why many business owners struggle to accept feedback and how surrounding yourself with people who challenge your ideas is key to leveling up. They highlight the human tendency to seek validation rather than pushback, which