Business Owners Tell All

In this heart-centered and thought-provoking episode, host Jamie Seeker speaks with Ari Drosman, founder and Chief Visionary Officer of Resurface Group, a mental health and addiction treatment organization designed specifically for people who don’t fit into traditional systems—what Ari calls “the outliers.”Ari shares how his path into psychology began unexpectedly, sparked by a powerful moment of connection with a client during his early fieldwork. Over the past two decades, he's developed a fully integrated, life-based approach to healing that blends personal presence, innovation, and flexibility.Together, Jamie and Ari unpack what it means to truly serve misunderstood individuals through tailored, in-home, and deeply relational care. Ari opens up about the clinical and business challenges of building an unconventional model, how he integrates personal life into professional purpose, and what it takes to nurture a connected, healthy team.The episode closes with Ari’s beautifully honest take on what it really takes to be a business owner in a mission-driven space.🧠 Key Discussion Highlights:🔹 Ari’s Unconventional Entry Into Psychology:Initially studied English and Philosophy.Was encouraged by mentors to consider therapy.A transformative moment with a client showed him the power of presence in healing.🔹 What It Means to Serve the “Outliers”:Clients with unique, layered challenges that don’t fit into traditional care models.Includes neurodivergent individuals, high-performing professionals with hidden struggles, and families as the "symptom bearers."🔹 The Resurface Group Model:Offers life-based treatment: care is delivered in the home, workplace, or natural environment.Entirely individualized; no group therapy or standard one-size-fits-all programming.Prioritizes deep integration into the client's real life, including experiential sessions (e.g. surfing, shared meals, etc.).🔹 Challenges of Innovating in Mental Health:Pushback and misunderstanding from traditional clinicians.Navigating limitations of insurance reimbursement.Educating and onboarding clinicians into a new model of care.🔹 Personal Balance & Leadership:Ari candidly shares that balance is a work in progress.His wife is a core collaborator in the Resurface journey.He practices presence over time, focusing on depth rather than quantity.Ari builds a relationship-centered team culture rooted in mutual support, flexibility, and well-being.🔹 Culture at Resurface Group:30-hour full-time workweek for clinicians.Team members create their own schedules.Emphasis on being a healthy person first, so they can effectively help others heal.💬 Powerful Quotes:“The ability to be present with someone’s healing is the most sacred and honorable space for me to be in.”“An outlier is just someone who doesn’t fit—and we built Resurface to treat them like the Goonies we are.”“If I’m not healthy, how can I heal?”“Not having a boss means everybody is my boss.”“I want people to make really wonderful mistakes because they’re trying too hard, not because they’re not trying at all.”🔚 Signature Question – What Does It Take to Be a Business Owner?Ari’s answer:Grit, moral clarity, and an unwavering sense of right and wrong.Commitment to growth and accountability.A love of learning through mistakes and humility in leadership.Knowing that the responsibility of ownership means everyone is your boss.🔗 Connect with Ari Drosman & Resurface Group:🌐 Website: resurfacegroup.com📧 Email: [email protected]💼 LinkedIn: Ari Drosman📘 Facebook: Resurface Group

In this episode, Levi King shares his entrepreneurial journey, the mindset shifts that helped him succeed, and the sacrifices he made along the way. From cold-calling businesses in his 20s to raising $200M in venture capital, Levi opens up about the grit, resilience, and personal growth required to build multiple successful businesses.🔹 Key Themes & Takeaways:1️⃣ The Mindset of an EntrepreneurGrew up in rural Idaho in a strict, traditional environment that discouraged thinking outside the box.Realized early on that he didn’t trust others with his future and needed to forge his own path.Started his first business—an electric sign company—by cold-calling potential customers despite being an introvert.Motivated by fear of poverty early on but later realized that true fulfillment came from impact, not just money.2️⃣ Overcoming Challenges & Personal SacrificesBiggest personal sacrifice? His mental health—spent years prioritizing work over himself.Early in his career, he thrived under stress and thought he was invincible.In his 40s, he started experiencing panic attacks after raising $100M from Goldman Sachs.Lesson learned: You can’t give everything to business, family, and others without taking care of yourself.3️⃣ Evolving Definition of SuccessInitially, success = financial stability & escaping poverty.Later, success became about legacy, impact, and helping others succeed.Nav now serves over 1 million small businesses in the U.S. by helping them navigate financial health and credit.4️⃣ The Pressure of Fundraising & Managing GrowthRaised $200M in venture capital, but the pressure didn’t decrease—it got worse.Thought the most stressful time would be in the early startup phase, but stress actually increased as the stakes got higher.Biggest challenge: Balancing investor expectations, company vision, and personal well-being.5️⃣ What It Really Takes to Succeed"Entrepreneurship means going through hell and back—over and over again."The only guarantee? There will always be challenges—the key is how you respond to them.Grit & resilience are more important than intelligence, money, or connections.Find your deeper "why"—money alone won’t push you through the hardest moments.🔥 Memorable Quotes from Levi King:💬 “I didn’t trust adults with my future. I didn’t believe what they believed about me.”💬 “I thought once I raised $100M, the stress would go away. It got worse.”💬 "You won’t invent a new version of hell—every entrepreneur goes through the same struggles."💬 "If you don’t know what you're willing to go through hell for, you won’t make it."💬 "The only guarantee in building a billion-dollar company is that you'll go to hell and back a hundred times. You don’t know when or how, but it’s coming."💬 "I had to stop giving everything to my company, my family, my marriage, my friends—I had to start giving to myself."💬 "I realized I'm not willing to do just anything for money. I have to be passionate about what I build."💬 "Grit and resilience will make up for a lack of smarts, lack of connections, and lack of money."💬 "At some point, you have to ask yourself: Am I just working to prove people wrong, or am I building something meaningful?"💬 "I used to think success meant never being poor. Now, I know success is about making an impact."💬 "If you're an entrepreneur, you will find out exactly who you are when things go wrong. And they will go wrong."🔍 Actionable Lessons for Entrepreneurs:✅ Know your deeper motivation—success needs to be about more than just money. ✅ Take care of your mental health early—burnout is real, and recovery is harder than prevention. ✅ Expect challenges at every stage—growth doesn’t remove stress; it just changes it. ✅ Never stop learning—Levi credits his success to reading and constantly improving himself. ✅ Stay connected to customers—impact happens through direct relationships, not just financial success.🎤 Closing Notes & Where to Find Levi:Levi King’s story is a powerful example of what it truly takes to succeed in business. His journey from cold-calling in a tiny apartment to leading a major fintech company is a testament to resilience, self-improvement, and a willingness to push through adversity.👥 Where to Connect with Levi: 🔹 Website: Nav.com 🔹 LinkedIn: Levi King 🔹 Articles: Featured in Inc., Entrepreneur, Forbes💡 Final Thought: "Success isn’t about avoiding hardship—it’s about embracing it and pushing through."

In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, host Jamie Seeker sits down with Jeff Wenninger, a retired LAPD lieutenant with over 33 years of experience. Jeff shares his journey from overcoming dyslexia and a speech impediment to becoming a leader in one of the most demanding police forces in the country.Jeff’s path to law enforcement was unexpected—after a negative encounter with police as a college student, he shifted his focus to criminal justice, aiming to create change from within. Over the years, he worked in elite LAPD units, including Metropolitan Division, where he handled dignitary protection for U.S. presidents and celebrities. Later, as a gang enforcement leader, he transformed the way officers were selected and measured, prioritizing integrity, accountability, and real impact over just making arrests.Now, as the Founder & CEO of Law Enforcement Consultants, Jeff helps police departments nationwide improve training, reduce liability, and rebuild public trust. His forthcoming book, On Thin Ice, presents actionable solutions for reimagining policing in the 21st century.Key Takeaways:"It was an obstacle, but not a barrier." – Jeff on overcoming dyslexia and his speech impediment."I never intended on doing 33 years in law enforcement. I was going to do five years, get my PhD, and be a professor of criminal justice." – Jeff on his unexpected career path."Would you want a surgeon who just barely passed? Then why would you want a police officer with the same mindset?" – Jeff on why excellence matters in law enforcement training."36% of officer-involved shootings involve individuals suffering from a mental health crisis. Yet, only 15-18% of departments provide training for it." – Jeff on the need for better police training."More officers die by suicide every year than are killed in the line of duty. We need to take better care of them." – Jeff on officer well-being."Reform implies something is broken. I don’t like that word. It’s about reimagining policing—how can we do it better?" – Jeff on shifting the conversation around law enforcement changes."80% of people will never have a personal interaction with law enforcement. They form their opinions based on what they see in the news. Police need to control that narrative." – Jeff on the importance of public perception."You have to have the courage to be passionate and strive to achieve. Life is bigger than just you." – Jeff’s answer to What It Takes' signature question on success.Episode Notes:📖 Jeff’s Book: On Thin Ice – Pre-order at jeffwenninger.com 🔗 Law Enforcement Consultants: lawenforcementconsultants.com 🔗 Jeff’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jeff-wenninger-4247a854

In this episode, Jamie Seeker sits down with Paul Ladensack, a seasoned architect with over 30 years of experience designing spaces that go beyond function—they tell stories, honor history, and serve communities. As a principal at CCBG Architects, Paul has led a variety of award-winning projects, including cultural, religious, commercial, and residential buildings.Paul shares insights on balancing creativity with functionality, how every building has a DNA, and the importance of listening to clients. He also talks about adaptive reuse—revitalizing historic spaces rather than demolishing them—and the impact that design has on people’s daily lives.The conversation wraps up with his dream project, a Presidential Library, and his advice for business owners: surround yourself with colleagues of shared direction and maintain balance in life.Key Notes & Takeaways:1. Paul’s Journey into ArchitectureGrew up in a creative, artistic family with many influences.Initially thought architecture was only about designing exteriors—later learned the importance of interiors and community impact.Credits his professors for shaping his understanding of design.2. CCBG’s Approach to ArchitectureListening to clients is at the heart of their process.Every project blends history, community identity, and modern functionality.Paul believes architects are storytellers, not just designers.3. Notable Project – Gethsemane Lutheran ChurchPaul was brought in after two previous architects failed to align with the community’s vision.The original plan was to tear down the existing church, but Paul realized its deep meaning to the congregation.Instead, he preserved and repurposed the church, turning it into a lobby while building a new worship space.This project reinforced his belief that architecture should honor history and people’s emotional connection to spaces.4. The Power of Adaptive Reuse"Every building has a DNA." Understanding it makes the project successful.In Phoenix’s Warehouse District, CCBG has repurposed historic buildings multiple times for different clients.The key is working with the structure instead of against it to maintain its integrity and functionality.5. Awards & Peer RecognitionPaul values feedback and criticism from industry peers.Awards are not about personal recognition, but rather a testament to strong client relationships and good design.Younger architects at CCBG enjoy competing and learning from critiques.6. Mentorship & Advice for Aspiring ArchitectsTravel as much as possible to experience different forms of architecture.Listen to professors and mentors—their lessons can shape an entire career.Embrace criticism as a tool for growth, both from professors and colleagues.7. Career Challenges That Shaped HimEarly in his career, he worked on a high-stakes project for the Missouri Botanical Garden.The project started small but quickly became a major focus for conservationists.The experience taught him how to handle pressure and adapt.8. Dream Project – A Presidential LibraryIf given the opportunity, Paul would love to design a Presidential Library.Believes it would be an incredible challenge to capture history, legacy, and national significance in architecture.He encourages listeners to look up past Presidential Libraries for inspiration.9. Signature Question – What It Takes to Be a Business Owner“Seek colleagues of shared direction.” Surrounding yourself with the right people makes work and life more fulfilling.Maintain balance. Overworking leads to burnout, but great design (and business) requires a holistic approach.Architecture is everywhere—it’s something people are born into, live in, and die in, shaping their daily experiences.Memorable Quotes:“Every building has a DNA. If you understand it, the project will go smoothly.”“It’s not about us being architects—it’s about being architects for our clients.”“Good architecture tells a story, not just through design, but through meaning and function.”“Seek colleagues of shared direction. When you grow together, you succeed together.”“Criticism is not a bad thing—it’s a tool for growth.”“The best projects are the ones where we listen, not just to our clients, but to the buildings themselves.”“Architecture is living and breathing within the world—you experience it every single day.”“The best ideas come when we work with a building, not against it.”“Balance is key—you can work yourself crazy, but at the end of the day, you need to enjoy life too.”“If I could design anything, I’d love to create a Presidential Library—capturing the heart and soul of history in architecture.”Final Thoughts & Call to Action:Paul’s deep respect for architecture as both an art and a service to communities shines through in this episode. His commitment to listening, preserving history, and designing with meaning makes him a standout leader in the field.Where to Find Paul:Website: CCBG ArchitectsLinkedIn: Paul LadensackVisit the Studio: If you’re in Downtown Phoenix, stop by for a

In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, host Jamie Seeker interviews award-winning architect Tessa Bradley about her journey in sustainable architecture, Passive House design, and the challenges of being a female business owner in the industry. Tessa shares her philosophy on solving complex problems with simple, efficient design, why Passive House is the future of sustainable living, and how she built her firm in a traditionally male-dominated field. She also dives into the realities of business ownership, leadership, and the importance of thinking like an owner before you become one.Key Takeaways & Notes:1. The Power of Simplicity in ArchitectureTessa emphasizes an integrated design approach—thinking about sustainability, efficiency, and aesthetics from the start rather than applying them later.She believes the best designs solve multiple problems at once in an elegant way.Memorable Quote: “It’s hard to make something simple that solves everything, but I like to win.”2. What Makes Passive House Design Revolutionary?Traditional buildings focus on components, while Passive House considers the building as a whole system.The idea is to "put a big woolly sweater around your house" to minimize energy loss instead of relying on excessive heating and cooling.The biggest barrier to widespread adoption? The construction industry’s slow pace of change due to the complexity of building projects.Memorable Quote: “Building things is really hard. You take an imperfect idea, designed by an imperfect architect, built with imperfect materials, by an imperfect builder… and you hope it works.”3. Breaking Into Architecture & Challenges as a Woman in the FieldTessa grew up watching her father draft building plans, which sparked her interest in architecture.Women remain underrepresented—less than 25% of licensed architects in the U.S. and less than 1% of firm owners are women.Representation matters—Tessa never met a female licensed architect until she was nearly one herself.Memorable Quote: “I didn’t see any women on the path to firm ownership. It was typically white male-owned firms promoting people who looked like them.”4. Growing Artisans Group & Scaling a BusinessMost architecture firms pass down experience through generations, making it hard for outsiders to break in.As a 100% women-owned firm, Artisans Group had to fight harder to win major projects.Success required standing out, proving excellence, and finding the right clients.Memorable Quote: “We had to claw and fight a little harder to win work because we didn’t inherit the benefit of our forefathers’ portfolios.”5. The Reality of Leadership & Business OwnershipBusiness owners must balance long-term vision with daily execution.Leadership can be isolating—mentorship and partnerships are essential.Power shouldn’t be about dominance; it should be about compromise, strategy, and resilience.Memorable Quotes:“Those who crave power probably shouldn’t have it. And those who do, carry more responsibility than is maybe fun.”“Romanticizing leadership is easy. Living it is different.”6. Advice for Aspiring Architects & EntrepreneursAct like an owner before you become one.Be intentional—if you want something, align your actions with your goals.If you don’t act like a leader, you won’t be treated like one.Memorable Quotes:“You don’t get made an owner and then act like one. You act like an owner until you are one.”“Look at what people do, not what they say.”Final Thought:Tessa’s journey is proof that sustainability and great design can go hand in hand. Her story highlights the power of breaking barriers, embracing mentorship, and thinking ahead to create impactful work.Where to Find Tessa & Artisans Group:Website: artisansgroup.comInstagram: @artisansgroupCall to Action:If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who’d love to hear Tessa’s story!

In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, host Jamie Seeker sits down with Kody Landals, a USMC veteran and founder of Reimagine Roofing, to discuss how he’s transforming the roofing and solar industry. Frustrated with unreliable roofing companies while working in solar sales, Kody decided to create a more transparent, efficient, and customer-focused roofing company. In just a few years, he’s scaled Reimagine Roofing to a multi-state operation, offering real-time quotes, no-pressure sales, and innovative digital solutions.Kody shares his biggest challenges, including how the collapse of the solar industry nearly took his company down, and the leadership strategies he used to rebuild and thrive. He also discusses his work with the Roofing and Solar Reform Alliance (RSRA), which helps contractors elevate industry standards through mentorship and collaboration.At the end, Kody answers the signature question and shares the 3 C’s for success: Clarity, Commitment, and Confidence.🚀 Key Takeaways & Notes🏗️ Problems in the Roofing & Solar IndustryMany companies lack structure and are not run like real businesses.Homeowners often get left with no warranty when companies go bankrupt.Poor customer service, outdated sales tactics, and slow quoting processes frustrate customers.🌟 How Reimagine Roofing is Changing the Game✅ 100% Remote Roof Buying: The only roofing company where you can buy a roof over the phone. ✅ No Hard Sales Tactics: Eliminated in-home, high-pressure sales. ✅ Instant, Real-Time Quotes: Uses satellite measurements & AI to generate quotes in 15 minutes or less. ✅ Educational First Approach: Strong YouTube presence to help homeowners make informed decisions.📈 Challenges in Scaling the BusinessBiggest hurdle: Solar sales reps were not roofing experts, leading to miscommunication with homeowners.Solution: Created video sales letters (YouTube videos explaining roofing options).Pivoted from B2B (working with solar companies) to direct-to-consumer when the solar industry began to struggle.💥 The Solar Industry Crash & Business CrisisA major solar company went bankrupt, causing banks to change their lending policies overnight.Multiple solar partners defaulted on payments, leaving Reimagine Roofing financially stranded.Kody immediately called a team-wide meeting and showed them Jocko Willink’s "Good" motivational video to shift their mindset.Rebuilt the business by cutting costs, restructuring, and pivoting to a direct-to-consumer model.🏆 The Roofing and Solar Reform Alliance (RSRA)Over 350 contractors across the U.S., Canada, and even Sweden.Helps contractors run better businesses and provide superior customer experiences.Promotes collaboration over competition to elevate industry standards.📚 Key Business Lessons from KodyAlways be learning: Uses audiobooks & YouTube for daily self-improvement.Build a vision that includes your team’s aspirations.Help others succeed: Mentored multiple employees to start their own roofing companies.🔥 Memorable Quotes from Kody Landals💡 "I learned more in saving the business than building the business."💡 "When you start viewing competitors as collaborators, the world opens up."💡 "The three C’s of success: Clarity, Commitment, Confidence."💡 "You commit 100% to something, and you really have clarity on what that commitment is—you’ll be confident about your actions."💡 "If we can elevate the industry, that becomes the new standard. I’m not competing against other great contractors—I’m competing against those who refuse to improve."💡 "My vision has to be big enough that my team’s vision can live inside of it."💡 "Sales reps were giving homeowners bad information, not because they were dishonest, but because they weren’t roofers—so I made videos to educate homeowners before they even called us."🔥 Signature Question – What Does It Take?Jamie: "Kody, in your experience, what does it take to build a successful business and disrupt an industry?"Kody’s Answer: 👉 The 3 C’s: Clarity, Commitment, ConfidenceClarity – Know what kind of business owner you want to be.Commitment – Go all-in on your vision.Confidence – Comes naturally when clarity and commitment are aligned.📌 Where to Find Kody & Reimagine Roofing🌐 Website: www.reimagineroofing.com 📺 YouTube (Reimagine Roofing): Reimagine Roofing YouTube Channel 🎥 YouTube (Kody’s Leadership Channel): Kody Landals YouTube Channel 🏗️ RSRA (For Roofing & Solar Contractors): www.rsra.org 📞 Phone: 480-90-ROOF🎬 Final Thoughts & Call to Action🚀 If you're a homeowner, check out Reimagine Roofing’s website or YouTube for educational content. 🏗️ If you're a roofing/solar contractor, consider joining the Roofing and Solar Reform Alliance to elevate your business. 🎧 If you enjoyed the episode, subscribe, leave a review, and share it!

In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, Jamie Seeker sits down with Lance Cayko, a multi-talented entrepreneur, architect, professor, podcast host, and co-founder of F9 Productions. Lance shares his journey from growing up on a North Dakota farm to becoming a leader in the architecture and design industry. He dives into how getting laid off pushed him to start his own firm, the importance of discipline and intentionality in business, and how he balances work with his passion projects like fishing and community gardening.Listeners will gain insights into entrepreneurship, time management, leadership, and redefining work-life balance into work-life harmony. Lance also shares his thoughts on hiring, leadership development, and why setting boundaries is the key to success.💡 Key Takeaways & Notes1️⃣ Lance’s Journey into EntrepreneurshipStarted working in construction at 13 after quitting a farming job.Learned about business margins early from his mentor and developed a passion for architecture.Went from construction to architecture after realizing he wanted control over design and execution.Graduated at the top of his class in architecture and moved to Boulder for work.Got laid off during the Great Recession, which fueled his drive to start F9 Productions in 2010.Built his firm by reacting to common industry complaints and focusing on customer service & quality.2️⃣ Overcoming Entrepreneurial ChallengesDrew inspiration from Michael Jordan’s rejection story, using setbacks as motivation.Initially carried anger toward being laid off but transformed it into positive motivation.Developed a strict morning routine to maintain productivity:4:30 AM wake-upHydration, stretching, meditation/prayerCreative work during the “golden hours”Stresses that discipline equals freedom – success comes from being intentional with time.3️⃣ Work-Life Harmony vs. Work-Life BalanceRejects the idea of "work-life balance" – prefers work-life harmony where personal and professional passions intertwine.Uses intentional scheduling to make time for fishing, family, and community work.Says, "I’ve made business deals on the ice while fishing!"Incorporates his architecture firm into his nonprofit work (staff helps design and build for community gardens).4️⃣ Leadership & Company Culture at F9 ProductionsInspired by Steve Jobs’ philosophy: Your best workers should be your leaders.Created an F9 Leadership Group to support newly promoted managers.Leadership training focuses on coaching, problem-solving, and maintaining a feedback loop.Believes in hiring based on shared values, not just skills—skills can be taught, but values must align.5️⃣ Boundaries & Time Management for SuccessSets strict work boundaries at F9: Employees choose between 7-4 or 8-5 schedules (no overtime culture).Many firms in the architecture industry glorify 50-60 hour workweeks—Lance proves success is possible without burnout."Boundaries equal freedom" – structuring work allows for personal pursuits without sacrificing business growth.6️⃣ Signature Question: What Does It Take?Lance’s Answer: "Boundaries, which come with discipline. If you’re intentional with your time, you create freedom. Too many people work unnecessary hours out of habit, not necessity. True success is about working smart, not just working hard."✨ Final Thoughts & Call to ActionLance’s story is a powerful example of turning adversity into opportunity.His emphasis on discipline, intentionality, and leadership development offers valuable lessons for any entrepreneur.Rejecting the outdated workaholic mindset, he proves that success and personal fulfillment can coexist.🔗 Where to Find Lance:Website: F9Productions.comPodcast: Inside the FirmLinkedIn: Lance CaykoYouTube: Fishing with Lance🔊 Listen & Subscribe to What It Takes!If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe, leave a review, and share with a friend!

In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, Laura Wilson, founder of Natural Pilates, shares her incredible journey of immigrating to the U.S. with just $100 and turning her passion for movement into a thriving Pilates business.From discovering Pilates while working in a physical therapy office to building multiple studio locations, launching an online fitness platform, and developing a teacher training program, Laura has navigated the challenges of entrepreneurship with resilience and adaptability.She also takes us behind the scenes of how she pivoted during the pandemic, scaled her business, and what she believes it truly takes to be a successful business owner.📌 Key Takeaways from Laura’s Journey🌍 From Romania to the U.S.: A Dream Turned RealityLaura immigrated to the U.S. in 2002 with just $100 in her pocket.She came through a student work program and was immediately captivated by the opportunities in the U.S.Instead of saving money to send back home, she focused on investing in her education and career.💡 Finding Pilates & Building Natural PilatesWhile working in a physical therapy office in Santa Monica, she discovered Pilates as a rehabilitation tool.A car accident left her with severe neck pain, which led her to explore Pilates further.She became certified in 2005 and opened her first studio in Beverly Hills.Natural Pilates has since expanded to five studio locations across Los Angeles and New York.🚀 Scaling & Innovating in the Fitness IndustryShe blended classical Pilates with athletic performance training, making the practice more accessible and results-driven.Launched Natural Pilates TV, a digital platform offering online workouts.Developed her own teacher training program, which is now nationally accredited.Created a line of Pilates equipment and fitness products to enhance workouts.🔄 Pivoting During the Pandemic & Digital ExpansionAnticipated lockdowns two weeks before they happened and quickly transitioned online.Launched virtual classes within 24 hours of business closures.Provided clients with at-home workout equipment to keep them engaged.Applied for an SBA loan on the first day, which helped keep her staff employed.Used the crisis as an opportunity to build an online fitness empire.💪 What It Takes to Be a Business OwnerConsistency is key – Success doesn’t happen overnight; it requires dedication and perseverance.Adaptability is crucial – Challenges like a pandemic or financial setbacks are inevitable, but quick decision-making and problem-solving make all the difference.Passion fuels the journey – Loving what you do makes even the hardest days worth it.Find solutions, not problems – Instead of dwelling on obstacles, focus on how to overcome them and move forward.Leadership can be lonely – Business owners carry unique responsibilities that employees may not understand, requiring strong mental resilience.💬 Memorable Quotes from Laura Wilson🔥 “I didn’t know what challenges I’d face—I was just ready to go.”🔥 “Unlike other immigrants who saved money to send home, I focused on investing in myself and my career.”🔥 “Most people exercise blindfolded—know why you’re exercising, what your goal is, and how to get there.”🔥 “I don’t want to hear a lot of complaints. Things happen. What’s the solution?”🔥 “Being a business owner can be lonely—people don’t always understand the weight of responsibility.”🔥 “If you love what you do, even the hardest days feel worth it.”📌 Final Thoughts & Call to ActionLaura Wilson’s journey is a powerful testament to resilience, innovation, and passion. From arriving in the U.S. with just $100 to building a nationally recognized Pilates brand, her story proves that success is built on consistency, adaptability, and taking action.🔗 Follow Laura & Natural Pilates:Website: naturalpilates.comInstagram: @naturalpilatesYouTube: Natural PilatesOnline Workouts: naturalpilatestv.com🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs inspiration to chase their dreams!

Dave Benton, founder of Metajive, shares his journey from an accidental entrepreneur to leading a top-tier digital agency working with brands like Nike, Red Bull, and Google. He discusses the challenges of scaling a creative business, the importance of relationships in securing major clients, and the mindset shifts required to sustain long-term success. Through personal setbacks, industry changes, and pivotal moments of reinvention, Dave emphasizes adaptability, accountability, and the willingness to keep moving forward—even when things get tough.Key Takeaways & Notes:1️⃣ Accidental Beginnings → Intentional GrowthDave never intended to start a company; Metajive was initially just a placeholder website for his portfolio.He moved to San Francisco intending to find a job but kept landing contract work, which organically evolved into a business.2️⃣ Overcoming Challenges & Pivotal MomentsMade every mistake in the book but kept pushing forward with the mindset of making “the next right decision.”2008 & 2015 were tough years with major setbacks, including losing Metajive’s largest client, which forced him to rebuild the business.2020 was another major test, losing 75% of revenue in three weeks, but he worked 100-hour weeks to turn things around.📌 Memorable Quote:"Every major transformation in my business started as a crisis. The key was deciding to rebuild, not retreat."3️⃣ The Turning Point: Building Long-Term RelationshipsThe real shift happened when Metajive secured its first long-term retainer client—moving from project-to-project work to sustainable business relationships.Most of Metajive’s biggest clients, including HP, Bank of America, and T-Mobile, came from relationships built years earlier.Lesson: Good work and strong relationships create future opportunities, often when you least expect them.📌 Memorable Quote:"The best clients aren’t found—they’re earned through years of great work and trust."4️⃣ Landing Major Clients: Relationships Over Cold OutreachTwo main paths to working with big brands:Direct networking and outreach (not the route Dave took).Long-term relationship building—working with great people early in your career who later bring you opportunities.Every major deal Metajive has landed came from past relationships rather than cold calls.📌 Memorable Quote:"Big brands don’t just hire agencies—they hire people they trust."5️⃣ Scaling While Maintaining CreativityBalancing business growth with creative integrity is difficult but essential.Key to success: Having a team deeply committed to the craft and strong project management to keep things running smoothly.AI and digital transformation are forcing businesses to rethink how they add value—Metajive constantly adapts to stay ahead.📌 Memorable Quote:"Innovation isn’t about keeping up—it’s about leading the way."6️⃣ Surviving Hard Times & Rebuilding from the Ground Up2015 setback: Lost over 50% of business, down to just Dave, his wife (COO), and one project manager. Considered mergers and job opportunities but ultimately rebuilt from scratch.2020 crash: Lost 75% of revenue, but hard work and persistence led to new opportunities, including a major project for New York Fashion Week, which helped Metajive bounce back.Lesson: Resilience and past relationships played a huge role in surviving difficult times.📌 Memorable Quote:"Every business will hit rock bottom at some point. The ones that survive are the ones willing to rebuild."7️⃣ The Reality of Entrepreneurship: "Be 100% Accountable"Dave’s #1 advice for business owners: Take full accountability—for clients, employees, and every decision.Scaling a business requires trust, delegation, and making tough calls.Business ownership is a journey of constant evolution—success comes from continuously adapting and pushing forward.📌 Final Memorable Quote from Dave Benton:"It takes the willingness to be 100% accountable. You have to accept responsibility for every person in your organization and know that ultimately, it’s your name on the line."

In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, host Jamie Seeker sits down with Brian Samson, founder and CEO of Plugg Technologies, to discuss how nearshore staffing is transforming the hiring landscape. Brian shares his journey from leading talent acquisition at top Silicon Valley startups to relocating to Argentina to build a nearshore team, and ultimately founding multiple companies specializing in Latin American talent.They explore why more U.S. companies are hiring beyond borders, how remote work has reshaped talent acquisition, and what business owners should know about cost, efficiency, and cultural differences when building remote teams. Whether you're a business owner looking to scale or a leader navigating the new world of hiring, this episode is packed with valuable insights.📌 Show NotesBrian’s Journey into Nearshore StaffingFrom the Midwest to leading recruitment for Silicon Valley’s top startupsWhat inspired Brian to start Plugg TechnologiesMoving to Argentina to build a nearshore businessScaling a company from 0 to 80 employees abroad🗣 Memorable Quote: "I didn’t come from a family of entrepreneurs, but I was surrounded by brilliant founders in Silicon Valley and thought, ‘I think I can do this.’ So I jumped in and figured it out along the way."What is Nearshore Staffing?The difference between onshore, offshore, and nearshore hiringWhy Latin America is a rising hub for highly skilled talentCommon misconceptions about hiring internationally🗣 Memorable Quote: "Nearshore isn’t just about cost savings—it’s about finding the right talent, in the right time zones, with the right cultural fit for your business."Cost vs. Quality: The Real Hiring Trade-offsHow nearshore hiring compares to U.S. hiring in cost, quality, and efficiencyWhy businesses should think beyond just cost savings when hiring globallyCultural and time-zone advantages of working with Latin American talent🗣 Memorable Quote: "You can find great talent anywhere, but the real question is: do they fit your business needs, your work culture, and your expectations for collaboration?"The Hiring & Onboarding ProcessBest practices for integrating remote employees into company cultureWhy companies should treat nearshore hires as core team membersThe adaptability and resilience of professionals in Latin AmericaSetting clear expectations to drive success in remote teams🗣 Memorable Quote: "If you treat your nearshore hires as ‘outsourced resources,’ you’re doing it wrong. They are part of your team, and the success of your business depends on how well you integrate them."What It Takes to Succeed as a Business OwnerAdvice for business owners hesitant about hiring internationallyThe importance of starting small and learning from hiring mistakesThe entrepreneurial mindset: Resilience, adaptability, and continuous learningWhy success in business requires taking calculated risks🗣 Memorable Quote: "As an entrepreneur, you’re going to get punched in the face—often. The key is to get back up, learn from it, and keep going."Where to Find Brian SamsonVisit Plugg Technologies at www.plugg.techConnect with Brian via email: [email protected] TakeawaysIf you found value in this episode, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow entrepreneur!Keep pushing forward and keep building what it takes!

In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, host Jamie Seeker sits down with James Leinhardt, the CEO and Chief Sleep Posture Expert at Levitex. James has built a business around improving sleep posture, working with elite athletes, healthcare professionals, and everyday consumers to optimize their rest. He shares how he turned sleep science into a thriving company, the challenges he faced in educating the market, and why sleep posture is critical for performance and well-being.They also dive into James’ entrepreneurial journey, from developing a patented sleep surface to supporting Team GB’s Paralympians and British Cycling. If you're an entrepreneur looking to build a business with impact, this episode is for you!Show Notes:Guest: James Leinhardt, CEO & Chief Sleep Posture Expert at Levitex Episode Title: Sleep Smarter, Lead Stronger: The Science Behind Success Topics Covered: ✅ How James turned sleep science into a successful business ✅ The biggest misconceptions about sleep posture ✅ Working with elite athletes and hospitals to improve recovery ✅ Challenges of educating the market about a new concept ✅ The business of sleep – how to innovate in a niche industry ✅ Lessons from growing a business and overcoming obstacles ✅ What it really takes to be a successful entrepreneur📌 Connect with James Leinhardt & Levitex: 🔗 Website: Levitex 🔗 Instagram: @levitexsleep 🔗 LinkedIn: James LeinhardtMemorable Quotes from James Leinhardt:💡 "Most people think sleep is just about getting enough hours, but how you sleep is just as important as how long you sleep."💡 "I never set out to sell pillows—I set out to educate people on sleep posture, and the business followed."💡 "Elite athletes don’t leave their performance to chance. They optimize everything—including how they sleep."💡 "Entrepreneurship is about solving a problem, not just selling a product. If you focus on impact, the business will come."💡 "If you want to change an industry, you have to educate before you can sell."

On this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, we sit down with Ive Haugeland, founder and principal of Shades of Green Landscape Architecture. Her journey is a powerful story of taking risks, following a passion, and staying true to her values while building a thriving business.Originally from Norway, Ive started her career designing environmentally sensitive landscapes before making the leap to California in 2000. With no roadmap, she built Shades of Green in 2004, blending Scandinavian design principles with modern sustainability.But what does it take to turn a creative vision into a successful business? How do you balance artistry with business strategy while staying authentic? In this episode, Ive shares the challenges, lessons, and defining moments that shaped her entrepreneurial journey.📌 Show NotesWelcome & IntroductionIntroduction to the episode and guestIve’s background: From Norway’s landscapes to California’s gardensHow her love for landscape architecture beganEarly Inspirations & Taking the LeapWhat drew her to environmental designLessons from designing landscapes in NorwayThe bold decision to move to California and start freshFounding Shades of Green: The Reality of EntrepreneurshipThe challenges of launching a business with no roadmapHow she built a name for herself in the industryThe balance between creative passion and business managementSustainability & Staying True to Her ValuesHow Scandinavian design principles influence her workWhy sustainability is more than just a business strategy—it’s a responsibilityNavigating the challenges of implementing sustainable practicesBusiness Growth: Lessons, Challenges & WinsThe biggest hurdles she faced in growing her companyHow she learned to scale a creative businessThe proudest moments and projects that define her successAdvice for Aspiring EntrepreneursThe hardest lesson she learned in businessWhat she wishes she knew before starting her firmHer advice for landscape architects and creatives looking to build their own companySignature Question: What It Takes to SucceedIn your experience, what does it take to be a successful business owner?Outro & Where to Connect with IveFinal thoughts and key takeawaysWhere to find Shades of Green and Ive’s workCall to action: Subscribe, review, and share!💡 Memorable Quotes from Ive Haugeland1️⃣ On Taking the Leap:"I moved across the world with no guarantees—just a passion for design and a belief that I could make it work."2️⃣ On Entrepreneurship:"I didn’t start a business because I wanted to run a business. I started it because I wanted to create something meaningful."3️⃣ On Sustainability:"Sustainability isn’t a feature—it’s a mindset. Every project we take on considers how we can work with nature, not against it."4️⃣ On Challenges:"The hardest part of running a business isn’t finding work—it’s learning how to trust yourself as a leader."5️⃣ On What It Takes to Succeed:"It takes vision, patience, and the ability to adapt. Business isn’t just about talent—it’s about learning and evolving every step of the way."

In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, host Jamie Seeker sits down with Robert Ancill, CEO of The Next Idea Group, to discuss his journey of reinvention from a culinary professional to a global business leader in hospitality and design.Robert shares how he pivoted industries, scaled a business to 24 countries, and oversaw 89+ brand launches and 800+ restaurant openings worldwide. He dives into the challenges of growing a business internationally, the key ingredients for success, and what he’s learned from working with top hospitality brands.Memorable Quotes from Robert Ancill:💡 "Success isn’t just about a great idea—it’s about how well you execute it."💡 "Reinvention isn’t about starting over—it’s about taking what you’ve learned and applying it in new, meaningful ways."💡 "Scaling a business globally means understanding cultures, not just markets."💡 "In business, you either evolve or become irrelevant. There’s no in-between."If you're an entrepreneur, business owner, or someone considering a career pivot, this episode is packed with invaluable insights on reinvention, scaling, and long-term success.📌 Show Notes: "Scaling a Vision: Robert Ancill’s Path to Building an International Brand"👤 Guest: Robert AncillCEO & Chairman, The Next Idea GroupExpert in restaurant consulting, branding, and interior designOver 89 brands launched and 800 restaurant openings in 24 countriesFormer executive with Aroma Café Group, Planet Hollywood, Panera Bread, and HMS HostProvides executive coaching to hospitality and design industry leaders📢 Key Topics Covered:✅ Robert’s journey from culinary arts to global business leadership✅ The moment that led him to pivot from hospitality operations to consulting & design✅ How he built The Next Idea Group and scaled internationally✅ The biggest challenges of growing a business across multiple markets✅ The lessons he’s learned from 800+ restaurant openings✅ Trends shaping the future of restaurant & hospitality design✅ Advice for entrepreneurs looking to pivot industries or scale globally🔥 Key Takeaways:✔️ Reinvention is possible—but requires adaptability, vision, and persistence✔️ Scaling a business internationally demands an understanding of cultural differences and market trends✔️ Execution matters just as much as a great idea✔️ Success in business comes down to strategic planning, relationships, and continuous innovation🎧 Listen & Subscribe:📌 Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | Amazon Music📌 Connect with Robert Ancill:🔗 Website: https://thenextideagroup.com🔗 LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/robertancill📌 Follow What It Takes for more inspiring business stories:🔗 Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook

In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, we sit down with James Bates, the Founder & CEO of AdviNow Medical, a company leveraging AI and augmented reality to transform healthcare. James shares his incredible journey—from leading billion-dollar tech businesses to raising $20 million to build his own game-changing startup.We dive into the realities of scaling a business, the challenges of raising capital, and how James navigated industry pushback to bring innovation to healthcare. He also shares lessons in resilience, leadership, and team-building, giving founders and entrepreneurs a firsthand look at what it really takes to disrupt an industry.💡 Memorable Quotes from James Bates:🔹 “AdviNow allows doctors to be doctors once again.”🔹 “I thought I was resilient before I founded this company—I had no idea what resilience meant.”🔹 “If all you're saying is, ‘this is too hard, it’s taking too long,’ then you just have to ignore it.”🔹 “Technology adoption in healthcare is seen as a risk, not a benefit—and that’s a big problem.”🔹 “If you can tell me why my vision isn’t valid, I want that conversation. But if you’re just telling me to give up, I won’t.”Whether you're an entrepreneur looking to scale, a tech enthusiast interested in AI’s role in healthcare, or someone who loves real startup stories, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.📌 Show Notes🚀 Episode Title:👉 From Startup to Scale: James Bates on Raising $20M & Revolutionizing Healthcare🎧 In This Episode, We Cover:✔️ What inspired James to launch AdviNow Medical✔️ The challenges of raising $20M and convincing investors✔️ How AI and AR are transforming healthcare✔️ The biggest obstacles he faced in scaling his business✔️ The importance of building the right team✔️ Key lessons in resilience, leadership, and overcoming setbacks💡 Memorable Quotes:🔹 “70% of the cost of a medical encounter is the doctor, but 66% of their time is spent on things that have nothing to do with their medical licensure.”🔹 “Healthcare is 20% of the GDP, yet most medical practices don’t make money. That’s a major red flag.”🔹 “If you want to build something big, you need an unwavering vision and relentless pursuit of it.”🔹 “Technology is supposed to make things easier, but in healthcare, outdated systems are holding us back.”🔹 “The biggest challenge isn’t the technology—it’s changing the mindset of an industry stuck in its ways.”🔗 Connect with James & AdviNow Medical:🌐 Website: www.advinow.com📧 Email James: [email protected]📧 General inquiries: [email protected]🔗 LinkedIn: James Bates on LinkedIn📢 Don’t Forget to Subscribe!If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe to What It Takes so you never miss an insightful conversation with amazing entrepreneurs.🎙 Thanks for listening, and we’ll see you next time!

In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, host Jamie Seeker interviews Anne Shadle, co-owner of the award-winning Mayan Cafe in Louisville, Kentucky. Anne shares her entrepreneurial journey, starting with the launch of the Mayan Cafe in 2007 alongside her brother-in-law, Chef Bruce Ucán. Together, they’ve expanded the business into catering services and a food truck concept while staying true to their mission of sustainability and exceptional customer experiences.Anne also discusses her additional ventures—Left Brain Solutions, an operations consulting company, and Lupine Floral Design, a boutique floral business—highlighting her passion for entrepreneurship and innovation. This episode dives into leadership lessons, the challenges and rewards of running multiple businesses, and what it takes to build a lasting legacy in the culinary world.Listeners will gain valuable insights into balancing growth with quality, fostering a strong team culture, and staying motivated in a competitive industry.Notes for Host PreparationKey Themes to Highlight:Sustainability as a core value in business.The balance between innovation and maintaining quality.Leadership lessons from managing operations, HR, marketing, and finances.Scaling a business into new ventures, such as catering and food trucks.Personal motivation behind launching additional businesses.Guest Background Highlights:Co-owner of Mayan Cafe since 2007, known for its sustainability and Mayan-inspired cuisine.Expanded into catering and Mayan Street Food, a food truck concept.Awarded NAWBO's thriving business award (2019) and Business First Family Business Award (2020).Business consultant at Louisville’s Small Business Development Center (2020–2022).Founder of Left Brain Solutions and Lupine Floral Design.Potential Questions for Follow-Up:How did Anne identify the opportunity to expand into catering and food trucks?What advice does she have for maintaining brand consistency during growth?How does Anne approach time management across multiple ventures?Engagement Tips for Anne’s Audience:Share stories that highlight her connection to Louisville and the local community.Dive into lessons from her leadership journey, including any specific challenges.End on a positive, motivational note about the future of Mayan Cafe and her entrepreneurial vision.

In this inspiring episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, we sit down with Puran Bair, an electrical engineer-turned-entrepreneur and meditation expert, to explore his incredible journey. Puran shares how he transitioned from corporate leadership roles to co-founding iamHeart, a business rooted in Heart Rhythm Meditation. We dive into the challenges of merging spirituality with entrepreneurship, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and how leading with heart can transform not just businesses but lives.Listeners will gain insight into the intersection of science and spirituality, the practical applications of heart-centered leadership, and actionable advice for creating purpose-driven businesses.Key Takeaways:Transformation and Courage: Puran’s bold leap from corporate life to creating a spiritually-focused business showcases the power of following one’s passion.Practical Meditation: Heart Rhythm Meditation isn’t just for personal growth—it’s a powerful tool for leaders to enhance performance and decision-making.Lessons for Entrepreneurs: Puran emphasizes the importance of staying aligned with your mission, even when facing doubts or challenges.Balancing Science and Mysticism: By validating spiritual practices through scientific research, Puran bridges the gap between the mystical and the practical.Heart-Centered Leadership: Entrepreneurs can lead with empathy, purpose, and intentionality for long-term impact and success.Episode Notes:Guest Background: Puran’s story includes:A robust academic foundation in electrical engineering and computer science.Years of corporate experience in technology and finance before founding iamHeart.Groundbreaking work in meditation research, including physiological studies on Heart Rhythm Meditation.Themes Explored:The intersection of spirituality and business.Overcoming obstacles as a heart-centered entrepreneur.The impact of meditation on leadership and team performance.Advice for balancing purpose and profitability in entrepreneurship.Links Mentioned:iamHeart Website: iamHeart.orgPuran’s Instagram: @iheartmeditationNotes for Editing:Ensure a smooth transition between Puran’s technical background and spiritual journey.Highlight actionable insights for listeners, especially entrepreneurs.Emphasize Puran’s personal anecdotes to create a relatable and engaging narrative.

This episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All features Dallin Huso, the owner and visionary behind Flamingo Pools, a premier pool maintenance company in Arizona. Dallin shares how he transformed his business into a trusted brand by focusing on customer-first principles, innovative services, and strong team leadership. From the challenges of scaling a service-based business to the importance of streamlining operations, Dallin provides actionable insights for entrepreneurs looking to align their business goals with their life vision.Notes for the EpisodeKey Topics to Highlight:Origins of Flamingo PoolsDallin’s motivation for starting the business and his journey from idea to execution.Customer-Centric ApproachEmphasizing customer relationships and treating them as heroes in their pool ownership journey.Innovative ServicesUnique offerings like mineral treatments and quick-turnaround estimators that set Flamingo Pools apart.Leadership and Team BuildingDallin’s approach to fostering a motivated, aligned, and high-performing team.Navigating ChallengesLessons learned from setbacks and how he overcame obstacles during the business’s growth.Future VisionGoals and exciting projects that showcase what’s next for Flamingo Pools.Takeaways for the Audience:The importance of aligning business strategies with customer needs.How to innovate within a traditional industry to stand out.Leadership tips for building a cohesive team and scaling a service-based business.Practical advice for entrepreneurs on balancing growth with day-to-day operations.

In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, Jamie sits down with Nishchal Banskota, the founder of Nepal Tea Collective, a mission-driven company reshaping the global tea trade. Nishchal shares his journey as a second-generation tea producer, how his family's legacy inspired his mission, and his drive to connect Nepalese tea farmers directly with consumers. We explore the challenges of creating a transparent tea supply chain, the importance of sustainability, and lessons Nishchal learned as a young entrepreneur. From being featured in The New York Times and Forbes to advocating for the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, Nishchal offers practical insights for aspiring business owners.Episode NotesGuest Highlights:Name: Nishchal (Nish) BanskotaTitle: Founder, Nepal Tea CollectiveWebsite: nepalteacollective.comInstagram: @nepalteacollectiveLinkedIn: Nishchal BanskotaKey Topics Covered:Origins of Nepal Tea Collective: Nishchal’s background as a second-generation tea producer and how family inspired his mission.Bridging the Gap: Tackling the disconnect between primary producers and global consumers.Challenges: Overcoming barriers to creating a transparent, tech-enabled tea trade.Sustainability Focus: Aligning Nepal Tea Collective’s practices with UN Sustainable Development Goals.Entrepreneurial Lessons: The importance of persistence, passion, and surrounding yourself with the right team.Global Impact: Reflections on being featured in The New York Times and Forbes.Practical Advice: Key tips for starting a mission-driven business.Memorable Quotes:"Tea is more than just a drink; it’s a way to connect people and cultures.""Transparency isn’t just a business value; it’s a necessity in today’s world.""If you want to make a global impact, start with your local roots."Key Takeaways for Listeners:The importance of aligning your business with a meaningful mission.How sustainability can be a core differentiator in building a brand.The value of storytelling in connecting with consumers.Why resilience and adaptability are critical in entrepreneurship.Call to Action:Visit Nepal Tea Collective’s website to learn more about their teas and mission.Follow their journey on Instagram and LinkedIn for updates and stories.Share this episode with someone who values sustainability and entrepreneurship.

This episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All features Natalie Griffin and Amy Philpott, co-founders of Gerry’s Cafe, a nonprofit cafe that provides employment opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Natalie, a former special education teacher, and Amy, a seasoned business professional, joined forces to address the high unemployment rate within this community. Opened in 2023, Gerry’s Cafe combines a mission-driven purpose with excellent craft food and beverages.The discussion focuses on their journey, from overcoming challenges like grassroots fundraising and pandemic delays to building a supportive community and creating an inclusive workspace. Natalie and Amy emphasize perseverance, collaboration, and the power of a mission-driven vision.NotesKey Themes:Inspiration and Founding StoryNatalie’s special education background highlighted the talents of individuals with disabilities and the stark lack of job opportunities available to them.Amy brought her business expertise, and together they built the nonprofit Brewing Opportunities, later rebranded Gerry’s Cafe in memory of Natalie’s aunt, Geralyn Weimer.Challenges and Perseverance:Major hurdles included legal and nonprofit setup, fundraising, and building community support.The pandemic became a time for strategic planning, board development, and organizational strengthening.Impact:Since opening in August 2023, the cafe has employed 37 adults with disabilities, providing skill development and fostering confidence and joy.Community testimonials reflect how transformative the cafe is for both employees and customers.Balancing Mission and Business:The cafe maintains its nonprofit mission but also strives to run as a successful business.High payroll costs from hiring employees with disabilities are offset by community fundraising and commitment to quality products.Advice for Entrepreneurs:Perseverance: Keep going despite roadblocks.Collaboration: Surround yourself with experts and supportive community members.Patience and Planning: Build your vision methodically, with a realistic timeline and strong foundation.Grit: Success demands resilience and hard work.Memorable Quotes:“If every single person on the earth could walk into Gerry’s Cafe, the world would be a different place.”“That deposit of time [customers give us] will redeposit into their heart and into the community.”Actionable Takeaways:Building a mission-driven business requires persistence, strategic partnerships, and the support of your community.Combining a clear social mission with operational excellence can lead to a greater impact.

In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, we sit down with Adam Povlitz, CEO and President of Anago Cleaning Systems, a leading global commercial cleaning franchise. Adam shares his inspiring journey from the corporate world at IBM to stepping into his family’s business and leading it to international success.We’ll explore what it takes to transition from a corporate career to entrepreneurship, the leadership lessons Adam has learned along the way, and how he scaled Anago into the global powerhouse it is today. Adam also dives into the challenges of growing a competitive franchise, staying innovative, and his role as a thought leader in the industry.If you’re curious about leadership, scaling a franchise, or learning what it takes to thrive as an entrepreneur, this episode is for you.Episode NotesGuest: Adam PovlitzTitle/Role: CEO & President of Anago Cleaning SystemsWebsite: www.anagocleaning.comLinkedIn: Adam PovlitzKey Topics Discussed:Adam’s early career at IBM and the skills he developed there.Why Adam decided to leave the corporate world and join his family’s business.The challenges of transitioning from corporate to CEO and growing into leadership.Key turning points in scaling Anago Cleaning Systems into a global franchise.Adam’s leadership philosophy and how it has evolved over time.Staying competitive and innovative in the commercial cleaning industry.How Adam uses his platform as a thought leader to contribute to Entrepreneur and Forbes.The biggest challenges he’s faced while scaling a franchise.The importance of innovation and vision when building a business.Adam’s best advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and leaders.Takeaways for Listeners:The value of skills learned in the corporate world for entrepreneurial success.How to lead and scale a family business into a global brand.The mindset and strategies needed to compete in a growing market.Lessons on leadership, innovation, and resilience in entrepreneurship.Call to Action:If you’re inspired by Adam’s story, check out Anago Cleaning Systems at www.anagocleaning.com and follow Adam on LinkedIn.

From Cold Calls to Corner Office: Glenn Poulos on Building a Sales Empire and Winning Customer RelationshipsGuest: Glenn PoulosCo-founder of Gap Wireless.Author of Never Sit in the Lobby: 57 Winning Sales Factors to Grow a Business and Build a Career Selling.Sales expert with 40 years of experience in the field, including starting and selling two successful businesses.Key Points Covered in the EpisodeGlenn’s Journey into SalesBegan in 1985 after a government mentor told him he “needed to sell things for a living.”Learned the power of leverage in sales—income is based on performance, not just education.Took the entrepreneurial leap in 1991 after realizing his value and ability to lead his own sales team.The Entrepreneurial Leap and Building BusinessesCo-founded his first business in 1991 after leaving his job.Sold the company after 15 years to a public entity and later started Gap Wireless in 2007.Sold Gap Wireless in 2022 to private equity, marking his second successful exit.Biggest Early Challenges:Paying Yourself: You need a nest egg, low expenses, and/or an understanding partner during the early days.Failure to Launch: People often delay action due to fear; commitment and execution are critical for success.Overcoming fear of failure propels you forward once you take the first step.Core Principles from Never Sit in the Lobby“Never Sit in the Lobby”: Be proactive, be prepared, and never waste opportunities when meeting clients.Always have something in your hand (like a product quote) and something in your mind (a clear purpose).Sales is about “staying in front of the customer” and building trust—even when you don’t win the deal.Adapting to Change in Sales:Technology evolves, but “people buy from people”—face-to-face interactions still close high-value deals.Distinguish between sales (closing deals with clients) and marketing (generating leads). Salespeople need to be in front of customers, not behind desks.Team Leadership and Hiring Salespeople:Hire slowly, fire quickly: If you’re considering letting someone go, you probably should.Compensation drives behavior: Build plans that align with business goals and motivate sales teams.The best recruit you can make is the sales manager—let them build a team that works for them.What It Takes to Succeed in Business:Take the first step—most people fail because they never start.Always do “the next right thing” and operate as though every impression is a first impression.Be a pleasure to do business with—even when you lose a deal—so clients come back or refer you to others.Memorable Quotes from Glenn Poulos“People buy from people. Face-to-face wins the deal most of the time.”“Failure to launch is what holds most people back. Take the leap, and let the fear of failure drive you forward.”“Always have something in your hand and something in your mind when meeting a customer.”“You only get forever to make another impression.”Actionable Takeaways for ListenersEntrepreneurs:Have a financial runway to sustain yourself when starting out.Commit fully—don’t let fear stop you from executing your ideas.Build a business with the mindset of staying relevant and adaptable.Sales Professionals:Focus on customer relationships and always be prepared.Selling is about in-person connection—don’t rely solely on virtual tools.Learn from mentors and replicate their successful habits.Business Leaders:Hire a strong sales manager to build and motivate the team.Create compensation plans that align with your goals and inspire performance.Foster a culture where everyone consistently strives to make a strong impression.How to Connect with Glenn PoulosWebsite: glenpoulos.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/glenn-poulos

In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, host Jamie Seeker sits down with Rhonda Kallman, a pioneering entrepreneur in the beverage industry and co-founder of The Boston Beer Company, to discuss her remarkable journey. Rhonda shares the challenges she faced as one of the first women in the male-dominated alcohol beverage industry, how she helped shape the craft beer revolution, and her transition to founding Boston Harbor Distillery, where she crafts innovative spirits with a rich nod to Boston’s heritage. Rhonda opens up about her resilience in overcoming setbacks, the lessons she’s learned about leadership, and her advice for women looking to break barriers in traditionally male-dominated spaces. This inspiring conversation highlights what it truly takes to succeed in business while staying true to one’s passion and values.Key NotesGuest Highlights:Name: Rhonda KallmanTitle: Founder of Boston Harbor Distillery, co-founder of The Boston Beer Company (maker of Samuel Adams beer).Industry Contributions:Pioneering figure in the craft beer revolution.Recognized as one of the first women to make an impact in the male-dominated beer and spirits industry.Current focus on producing unique craft spirits at Boston Harbor Distillery.Awards/Recognitions:Named among INC Magazine’s “25 Entrepreneurs We Love.”Featured in “Beer Wars” documentary.Recipient of the Maverick Award from Beer Business Daily.Episode Themes:Breaking Barriers: Rhonda shares her experiences as a trailblazer for women in the alcohol beverage industry.The Entrepreneurial Spirit: Insights into her journey co-founding Boston Beer Company and creating Boston Harbor Distillery.Resilience and Leadership: How she navigated setbacks, including her battle with the FDA over caffeinated beer and the challenges of launching during 9/11.Craft and Community: The importance of creating innovative products and connecting them to local history and culture.Empowering Women: Advice for aspiring female leaders on building credibility and success in male-dominated fields.Takeaways:Believe in yourself, even when others doubt you.Entrepreneurship requires resilience and a willingness to pivot when challenges arise.Building something meaningful often comes with personal sacrifices, but it can be deeply fulfilling.Leadership involves empowering others—Rhonda is most proud of the inclusive sales team she built at Boston Beer Company.Success in business often hinges on passion, differentiation, and a unique value proposition.

Episode SummaryTitle: Hydration, Sustainability, and Scaling with Purpose: Ralph Marucci of Hydr8In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, host Jamie Seeker welcomes Ralph Marucci, co-founder and CEO of Hydr8, a company revolutionizing hydration and sustainability in the workplace. Ralph shares his entrepreneurial story, beginning with early lessons in equity, transitioning into the medical sales world, and eventually co-founding Hydr8 in 2017 to tackle single-use plastics and deliver cutting-edge hydration solutions.Ralph discusses how Hydr8 differentiates itself with multi-stage water filtration systems, their commitment to reducing plastic waste, and the innovative Zero Waste Pantry Initiative, which includes sustainable coffee stations, snacks, and eco-friendly disposables. The company is well on its way to achieving its mission to save 1 billion bottles by 2030, with 300 million bottles already eliminated.Throughout the episode, Ralph highlights the importance of strategic partnerships, scaling through strong hires, and balancing work with personal priorities like family. He offers actionable advice for business owners: establish core values, surround yourself with a trusted team, and focus on long-term growth without sacrificing balance.This episode is perfect for entrepreneurs and leaders seeking inspiration to grow a purpose-driven, sustainable business while maintaining their work-life balance.Episode NotesKey Takeaways:Ralph’s Background & Hydr8’s Creation:Started in water systems under a venture capitalist at 22 but learned hard lessons about equity.Gained valuable experience in medical sales (J&J), then co-founded Hydr8 with his best friend to disrupt the bottled water industry.Hydr8 launched in 2017 with a mission to reduce single-use plastics and improve workplace hydration.Hydr8’s Differentiators:Advanced Multi-Stage Filtration: Removes contaminants (lead, arsenic, pharmaceuticals, microplastics) and reintroduces essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium.No Plastic Waste: Provides high-quality water without bottles or 5-gallon jugs.Hydr8 offers flavored, sparkling, and ice water solutions for businesses.Sustainability Commitment:Goal: Save 1 Billion Bottles by 2030; current progress: 300 million bottles saved.Hydr8 provides environmental impact reporting: measures CO₂ reduction, trees saved, and plastic diverted from landfills.Zero Waste Pantry Initiative:Sustainable coffee systems (bean-to-cup, no pods).Compostable disposables (PLA, bamboo, sugarcane-based products).Single-ingredient healthy snacks with compostable wrappers.Bulk snack dispensers to eliminate packaging waste.Pivoting & Scaling the Business:Pandemic Pivot: Developed touchless water systems with a foot pedal, catering to essential workers and hospitals.Strategic hires (like a coffee guru) allowed Hydr8 to expand its product offerings.Grew customer base with major clients like JP Morgan, Kirkland Ellis, and the Brooklyn Nets.Work-Life Balance & Leadership Lessons:Ralph emphasizes the importance of work-life balance, coaching his children’s sports teams to stay grounded.“Success is a marathon, not a sprint”—avoiding burnout is essential for long-term success.Surround yourself with trusted, values-aligned team members to delegate responsibilities effectively and scale the business.Advice for Business Owners:Take the leap and start—even if it feels uncomfortable.Build your company around core values and culture; this sets the foundation for growth.Don’t fear hiring great people, even if it seems costly—strong hires will take your company further, faster.Network strategically with businesses targeting similar markets to drive mutual growth.Quotable Insights:“If water is water to you, I’m not your guy.”“Surround yourself with passionate, values-driven people. That’s how you scale without burnout.”“Success is a marathon, not a sprint. Be intentional about balance.”“Good people are worth the investment—they’ll help you grow and give you the freedom to focus on what matters.”What’s Next for Hydr8:Expanding its geographical footprint across the Northeast and beyond.Continuing to innovate with e-commerce solutions for streamlined ordering.Exploring DIY water solutions for residential markets to meet consumer demand.Maintaining a focus on people over profits, ensuring exceptional service and sustainability.Where to Find Ralph and Hydr8:Website: Hydr8.usLinkedIn: Hydr8Key Themes:Sustainability & InnovationScaling Through People and PartnershipsWork-Life Balance for EntrepreneursLeadership & Core ValuesThis episode delivers actionable advice for entrepreneurs looking to build sustainable businesses, grow strategically, and lead with purpose.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:Rajeev's journey from student to global business leader.How to overcome cultural barriers when managing international teams.The importance of building trust during mergers and acquisitions.Key strategies for scaling businesses from startup to multimillion-dollar revenue.Why mutual respect and clear outcomes are essential in leadership.How to balance passion and purpose in your career.Practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and leaders looking to expand globally.Connect with Rajeev Mudumba:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rajeevmudumbaPodcast: Plan B SuccessWebsite: Cooey HealthQuotes from the Episode:“Treat others the way you’d like to be treated.”“Passions evolve, but purpose becomes clearer as you execute every day.”“It’s not about warm and fuzzy all the time—business is about making tough decisions with respect and integrity.”Action Items for Listeners:Check out Rajeev’s podcast Plan B Success for more leadership insights.Reflect on how you build trust and foster respect in your own teams.Apply Rajeev’s strategies to scale your business or navigate global expansion.Share this episode with a colleague or friend who could benefit from these insights.Subscribe & Review:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to What It Takes and leave a review! Your support helps us bring more incredible stories like Rajeev’s to the show.

What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All– Episode Summary and Show NotesEpisode Title:"From Barista to CEO: Brewing Success with Trevor Corlett"Key Takeaways:The Value of Identity in Business: Trevor explains how discovering his personal and business identity was critical to finding success after two failed ventures.Lessons from Failure: Insights into how setbacks can shape resilience and inform better decision-making.Differentiation in a Crowded Market: How Madcap Coffee stands out in the competitive specialty coffee industry.The Power of Values: Why maintaining core values over 16 years has been pivotal to Madcap’s growth, even during challenging times like the 2008 recession and the pandemic.Practical Advice for Entrepreneurs: Trevor emphasizes the importance of community, feedback, and a passion for continuous improvement in understanding what it takes to succeed.Memorable Quotes:"The more I learned about coffee and the people behind it, the more I realized I wanted to work in this industry for the rest of my life." – Trevor Corlett"Jumping on trends without intentionality blurs the lines of who people think you are as a brand." – Trevor Corlett"The potential for positive impact is directly correlated to how intentionally you grow your company." – Trevor Corlett"What it takes is finding a community to give you honest feedback and having a passion for improvement." – Trevor CorlettResources and Links:Madcap Coffee Website: madcapcoffee.comFollow Madcap Coffee on Social Media:Instagram: @madcapcoffeeFacebook: Madcap CoffeeLinkedIn: Madcap Coffee CompanyConnect with Trevor Corlett:Instagram: @asolublelifeAbout the Guest:Trevor Corlett is the CEO and co-founder of Madcap Coffee, a specialty coffee company known for its exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and commitment to sustainability. With over 25 years of experience in the coffee industry, Trevor has served as Chair of the Barista Guild of America, instructed for the Specialty Coffee Association, and competed in national barista championships. Today, he continues to innovate and lead with purpose, making Madcap Coffee a standout brand in the specialty coffee market.About the Host:Jamie Seeker is the host of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, a podcast dedicated to uncovering the stories of inspiring entrepreneurs and business owners. With a focus on perseverance, lessons learned, and the mindset needed for success, Jamie brings out actionable insights and inspiring tales from each guest.Call to Action:If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All on your favorite podcast platform. Share this episode with a friend who loves coffee or entrepreneurship, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories!

GuestPhil Corbin, President and Founder of Phil Corbin Construction Inc.Topics Covered[0:05] - Introduction to Phil CorbinJamie introduces Phil’s journey from tradesman to entrepreneur, highlighting his resilience and determination.[1:47] - Taking the Leap During a RecessionPhil explains how he was “forced” into entrepreneurship when his previous employer shut down, prompting him to take on any available job, from handyman tasks to small remodels, to support his family.[4:10] - Humility and Opportunity in Hard TimesPhil shares how humbling himself to accept smaller jobs taught him that even tough times hold opportunities for those willing to work hard and adapt.[8:00] - How Phil’s Background Prepared Him for BusinessGrowing up as a preacher’s kid and spending time in the military, Phil learned resilience and the value of perseverance, skills he drew on during tough times in his business.[10:52] - Overcoming First-Year ChallengesPhil discusses key challenges from his first year in business, such as learning how to bid accurately and recognizing his value.[12:30] - Learning on the Fly and Seeking MentorshipWith no formal business training, Phil shares how he actively sought out mentors and businesspeople, approaching them with humility and a willingness to learn from their experience.[15:20] - The Transition from Tradesman to Business OwnerPhil talks about how he gradually shifted his focus from hands-on carpentry to business management, including a symbolic “ceremony” of letting go of his tradesman identity to fully embrace being a business owner.[18:00] - Maintaining Motivation and Avoiding BurnoutPhil reflects on how he avoids burnout through breaks, creative outlets, and spending time with family, which help him reset and return to work with renewed focus.[20:12] - What It Takes to Be a Business OwnerPhil answers the show’s signature question, emphasizing that entrepreneurship requires tenacity, the courage to face failure, and the resilience to keep getting back up.Memorable Quotes“Starting in the Great Recession wasn’t easy, but sometimes necessity pushes you to find out what you’re really capable of.”“You can do more than you think you can, and you're never quite done.”“People are willing to help when you come in with the right attitude, admitting what you don’t know.”“I couldn’t be both a carpenter and a business owner. To make this succeed, I had to commit 100% to being a business owner.”“Tenacity, not being scared to fail, and getting back up when you do—that’s what it takes to be a business owner.”Where to Find Phil CorbinWebsite: Phil Corbin ConstructionInstagram: @philcorbinconstructionFacebook: Phil Corbin Construction Inc.

Guest:Jill HamblenFounder and President, triARC architecture & designSpecializes in healthcare architecture, motivated by personal experiencesIntroverted leader who prioritizes empathy and values in businessTopics Covered:Jill’s Path to PurposeHow her daughter’s NICU experience led Jill to specialize in healthcare designThe role of physical spaces in supporting healing and human connectionFounding triARC architecture & designThe leap from architect to business ownerThe importance of grit and trusting the journey in entrepreneurshipLeadership as an IntrovertJill’s approach to leadership as an introvert in a relationship-driven industryStrategies for building meaningful connections and managing energyValues-Driven Business DecisionsHow Jill’s people-centric values shape her team’s work culture and client relationshipsThe importance of clarity and alignment in building a values-based businessBalancing Functionality and Warmth in Healthcare DesignJill’s “North Star” approach to align client vision with functional and welcoming designsCreating spaces that offer a sense of safety and comfort for patients and staffAdvice for Introverted EntrepreneursInsights on delegating, staying authentic, and leading with a supportive teamBuilding a business that reflects core values for sustainable successMemorable Quotes:“When you have a traumatic experience, it leaves an imprint, and what you choose to do with that imprint is 100% up to you.” – Jill Hamblen“If given a choice between being in a room full of people or being with my family, I’ll choose family every time. That’s where I recharge.” – Jill Hamblen“There are clients who align with our values, and those are the relationships we pursue. We can’t be all things to all people.” – Jill Hamblen“Heart and grit—that’s what it takes to be a business owner.” – Jill HamblenSignature Question:Jamie asks Jill what it takes to be a successful business owner, and Jill responds with “heart and grit”—qualities that have guided her through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.Where to Find Jill:Website: triARC architecture & designInstagram: @triarc_designLinkedIn: Jill Hamblen (LinkedIn handle)

Guest: Rich Kozak, Founder of Rich BrandsMemorable Quotes:“A brand isn’t your perception; it’s the perception in others’ minds.”“To scale, you must evolve both the brand and the perception around it.”“When founders share their vision, things become clearer for everyone involved.”Key Takeaways:The Nature of Brand: Rich defines branding as the perception held by others and explains why that perspective is key.Scaling Beyond Self: Founders can maintain their identity while allowing the brand to take on its own growth path.Ego and Vision: Balancing ego with a shared vision makes scaling more achievable and removes hurdles.Practical Advice: Rich shares strategies like “trusting your gut,” “speaking from the heart,” and his structured 7-step branding approach for impactful results.Resource Links:Rich Brands — Explore Rich’s brand services and download his 7-Step Blueprint for purpose-driven branding.

Key Takeaways:The Entrepreneurial Start:Matt started CapForge after being laid off in 2000, leveraging his background in small business consulting. He had a goal to build something scalable and long-lasting.Pivoting to Bookkeeping:In 2012, Matt realized consulting wasn't scalable for him and identified a gap in the market for affordable, high-quality bookkeeping. This pivot led to the growth of CapForge.Scaling to 85+ Employees:Matt shares how intention and delegation allowed him to scale from a one-person firm to a team of 85 professionals while maintaining high standards of service.Flat-Fee Pricing Model:Matt introduced a flat-fee pricing model to remove the unpredictability and frustration of hourly billing for clients. This innovative approach helped differentiate CapForge from competitors.Entrepreneurial Resilience:Matt stresses the importance of not giving up when faced with challenges, learning how to delegate, and growing a business that can thrive without the owner’s constant involvement.Signature Question – What It Takes:At the end of the day, what it really takes to succeed as an entrepreneur is resilience: not giving up, and building a business that can run without you.Quote Highlights:"I didn’t want to just fill my time with 40 hours of bookkeeping. I wanted to build something bigger." — Matt Remuzzi"If you're going to grow, you need to learn how to delegate and ensure your business can run without you." — Matt RemuzziConnect with Matt Remuzzi & CapForge:Website: capforge.comInstagram: @capforge_bookkeepingFacebook: CapForge BookkeepingLinkedIn: CapForge on LinkedInTwitter: @capforgeFollow Us for More Insights:Instagram: @jamieseekerLinkedIn: Jamie Seeker on LinkedInTune in to future episodes for more stories from entrepreneurs who share the real, raw truths about what it takes to build and sustain a successful business!

Guest:Richard Blank, CEO of Costa Rica’s Call CenterKey Topics Discussed:Richard's unique journey from the U.S. to Costa Rica and how he built a call center from scratchThe challenges and successes of training over 10,000 bilingual telemarketersAdvanced communication strategies, including phonetic micro-expression readingGamification techniques to boost employee motivation and engagementConflict management strategies and the importance of empathy in leadershipPractical advice for business owners on growing steadily, with a focus on soft skills and emotional intelligenceKey Quotes:"It's about perseverance, dedication, and really loving what you do. When you're passionate, the results will follow.""The art of speech and mastering soft skills can turn a simple conversation into a business success story.""You can’t rush growth—it’s about slow, steady progress, making each step count."Resources Mentioned:Costa Rica’s Call Center: www.costaricascallcenter.comLearn more about phonetic micro-expression reading and other advanced communication techniques.Follow Richard Blank:Website: Costa Rica’s Call CenterSocial Media: Search “Costa Rica Pinball Machines” to find Richard’s vintage collection and more.Next Steps:Subscribe to What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All for more interviews with successful business leaders.Connect with Jamie Seeker on social media for the latest updates on the show.

Guest:Nick Jain, CEO of IdeaScaleKey Topics Discussed:IdeaScale’s Growth: How Nick’s leadership scaled IdeaScale into a global innovation platform.AI in Business: Early adoption of AI and how it transformed their operations.Challenges with AI: Problems like outdated code and "hallucination" errors in AI tools.Balancing Leadership & Personal Life: How Nick finds balance through hobbies like poker and running.Key Insights for Business Owners: What it takes to be a business owner today, including hard work and continuous self-improvement.Key Moments:[00:01:00] – Nick discusses how IdeaScale began.[00:02:30] – The moment Nick realized AI’s transformative power.[00:05:50] – Nick shares the balance between AI and human input at IdeaScale.[00:11:30] – The challenges with outdated AI training data.[00:14:20] – Poker as a metaphor for leadership.Quotes:“AI doesn’t replace humans; it makes us more effective at what we do.” – Nick Jain“You need something outside of work to refresh your brain—whether it's poker, running, or something else.” – Nick JainCall to Action:Visit IdeaScale.com to explore their platform, free for organizations under 100 people.Connect with Nick Jain on LinkedIn for further discussions on innovation and leadership.

Key Topics Covered:Inspiration for Growing Healthy SeasonsRobyn’s story of being inspired by a child with autism while lifeguarding, leading her to pursue a career helping children with special needs.Journey from Vision to ActionHow Robyn’s experiences and her desire to fill gaps in the healthcare system led to the creation of Growing Healthy Seasons.Scaling the BusinessRobyn shares the pivotal moment when she realized the need to scale—during her pregnancy—and how this led to hiring her first team members.Maintaining Quality While ScalingRobyn’s commitment to ensuring high-quality care through a structured leadership and mentoring program called the Clinical Excellence Teams.Overcoming ChallengesRobyn discusses the challenges of growing the business, from perfectionism to a tough decision to walk away from a 70% revenue-generating contract due to ethical concerns.The Regulation Foundation ProgramThe development and impact of this program, designed to help both therapists and business professionals enhance their self-regulation skills.Business Leadership and InnovationStrategies for balancing growth with innovation and staying ahead in the field, while staying true to the company’s mission and values.Key Takeaways for Business OwnersRobyn emphasizes the importance of doing the “next right thing” and staying grounded in core values as essential components of long-term business success.Quotes:“It wasn't an either-or. We’re only scaling if we can maintain good quality services.” – Robyn Chu“I just dove deep into my core values... once I figured out the why under the what, it became less painful.”“What does it take to thrive as a business owner? Just doing the next right thing.”Resources Mentioned:Growing Healthy Seasons – WebsiteRegulation Foundation Program – Learn more about the program and its impact on mental health professionals and business leaders.Connect with Robyn Chu:Website: growinghealthyseasons.comInstagram: @growinghealthyseasons

Guest: Karie Cowden, Founder of Connect the Dots PromotionsHost: Jamie SeekerEpisode Overview:In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, Jamie Seeker sits down with Karie Cowden, the founder of Connect the Dots Promotions, a company that merges creativity with social impact through promotional products. Karie shares her inspiring journey from a surprising start in the industry to nearly three decades of running her business, working with major brands like Walmart and Boeing. She talks about the importance of social responsibility, sustainability, and giving back to the community, touching on her involvement in PromoCares and her innovative work with UMOM, a local homeless shelter, where she helped set a Guinness World Record.Key Topics:Karie's Entrepreneurial Journey: How Karie transitioned from an unexpected job in promotional marketing to building her own business.Social Responsibility in Business: The role of sustainability and mindful product choices in promotional marketing.Community Involvement: Karie’s work with PromoCares and local charities, including her unique Guinness World Record event for UMOM.Balancing Growth and Purpose: Insights into how Karie navigates challenges in maintaining profitability while staying committed to social good.Pivoting and Future Goals: Karie discusses recent shifts in her business structure and her new role with Campus Stop, a company in the collegiate space.Memorable Quotes:"We need to leave the world better than we found it." – Karie Cowden on the importance of sustainability in promotional products."Sometimes your competitors are your best allies when it comes to making a real difference." – Karie on working with PromoCares."You're allowed to change your mind, and when you find your purpose, that's where the magic happens." – Karie reflecting on her business pivots.Connect with Karie Cowden:Website: ctdpromotions.comInstagram: @ctdpromotionsFacebook: Connect the Dots PromotionsLinkedIn: Karie Cowden

Guest: Shannon Englert, Founder and Managing Attorney at DYAD Immigration LawSummary:In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, host Jamie Seeker sits down with Shannon Englert, the visionary founder of DYAD Immigration Law. Shannon shares her inspiring journey from working as a translator to becoming a managing attorney, driven by a passion for helping businesses and families navigate the complex world of U.S. immigration law. She opens up about the challenges of running a mission-driven law firm, focusing on sensitive cases like visas for trafficking and domestic violence survivors, and the lessons learned along the way. Shannon's story is one of perseverance, compassion, and commitment to making a difference in the lives of her clients.Key Discussion Points:Journey from Translation to Immigration Law: Shannon explains how her early career as a translator opened her eyes to the needs of immigrants, ultimately leading her to law school and founding DYAD Immigration Law.Connection to Immigration Through Personal Experience: Shannon discusses how her experience as an exchange student in Chile with a visa issue sparked a lifelong passion for immigration law.Handling Emotionally Challenging Cases: Shannon talks about how DYAD helps clients in sensitive situations, such as trafficking and domestic violence survivors, by shifting the narrative from victimhood to empowerment.Challenges in U.S. Immigration Law: The complexities of U.S. immigration law and the emotional and legal hurdles faced by individuals attempting to navigate the system.Building a Mission-Driven Team: Shannon shares how DYAD recruits and retains employees by aligning them with the firm’s core values, ensuring that everyone is committed to the mission of helping others.Memorable Quotes:"I realized that immigration isn't easy. We think it is when we’re born here, but for many, it’s a complex, high-stakes process.""We don't treat our clients as victims—that’s something that happened, but it doesn't define them.""Action and no excuses—it’s what it takes to build a mission-driven business. You have to be willing to fail and learn from it quickly."Actionable Takeaways:Empowerment through Law: Focusing on clients' strengths and helping them overcome challenges through strategic legal support can be life-changing, both emotionally and legally.Aligning Your Team with Your Mission: Surround yourself with employees who share your vision and are committed to the company’s core values.No Excuses, Just Action: Shannon emphasizes that success requires relentless action, even if it means failing and learning along the way.Connect with Shannon Englert:Website: dyadlaw.comInstagram: @dyadlawFacebook: DYAD Immigration LawYouTube: DYAD Immigration LawTikTok: @dyadlawListen Now: [Insert podcast platform link]Tune in to hear Shannon's inspiring story and gain insights into what it takes to build a mission-driven business in one of the most challenging areas of law.

Guest: Hunter Cambon, COO of Page One DigitalSummary:In this episode, Host Jamie Seeker sits down with Hunter Cambon, the Chief Operating Officer at Page One Digital, to explore his unique journey from being an educator to running a successful digital marketing agency. Hunter shares how his skills in problem-solving, leadership, and adaptability, honed in the classroom, translated into scaling Page One Digital alongside his wife and CEO, Kimberly. The discussion dives into the challenges of working as a husband-and-wife team, building scalable systems in digital marketing, and the importance of continuously evaluating strengths to find the right "seat on the bus."Key Discussion Points:Transition from Education to Digital Marketing: Hunter discusses his journey from leading an English department to taking on the COO role at Page One Digital, focusing on his skillset shift from teaching to SEO and digital strategy.Navigating Change and Problem Solving: Hunter shares insights on how his problem-solving abilities as an educator have helped him in business leadership, especially in managing teams and creating efficient systems.Working as a Husband-and-Wife Team: The dynamic of running a business with his wife, Kimberly, and how they navigate the challenges of balancing work and personal life.Continuous Learning and Flexibility: Hunter emphasizes the importance of being adaptable, continuously learning, and remaining open to feedback—whether in a classroom or managing a business.Overcoming Business Challenges: Hunter reveals the hurdles faced while scaling Page One Digital, such as hiring the right people and adapting to industry changes, and how academic experiences prepared him for these challenges.Memorable Quotes:"Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should. Know your role and play to your strengths.""If you’re not doing what the successful people around you are doing, it might be time to start thinking about it.""Flexibility is key—whether you're teaching students or managing a team, you have to meet people where they are."Actionable Takeaways:Always evaluate your strengths and ensure you’re in the right "seat on the bus" when running a business.Don’t be afraid to seek advice from those ahead of you—successful people are often happy to share their insights.Flexibility and openness to change are critical for both personal and business growth.Connect with Hunter Cambon:Website: pageonedigital.comEmail: [email protected] in to learn more about Hunter’s inspiring journey and how he continues to grow Page One Digital by applying lessons learned from his days as an educator!

What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All - Episode 1Host: Jamie SeekerGuests: Andrea Hannibal, Brianna Dalton, Kristin ByersBrought to you by: Seeker SolutionEpisode Summary:In this inaugural episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, Jamie Seeker and her team introduce the podcast, which is designed for business owners and entrepreneurs. Jamie and her team share the vision behind the show, aiming to connect business owners and share real, unfiltered stories about the challenges and successes they face. This episode sets the stage for what’s to come by giving listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the SeekerSolution team, their roles, and what motivated Jamie to create this space for business owners.Key Takeaways:Podcast Vision: Jamie Seeker created What It Takes to combat the sense of isolation many business owners experience. The podcast will feature entrepreneurs and decision-makers who openly share their stories, challenges, and wins to inspire others.Target Audience: Business owners and entrepreneurs with growing teams, particularly those generating around seven figures in annual revenue, and those in transition from solopreneurs to managing larger teams.What Listeners Can Expect: Authentic conversations with business owners about startup journeys, overcoming feelings of overwhelm, navigating company growth, and actionable steps for personal and professional development.Guest Profiles: Entrepreneurs at various stages of business growth—from those beginning to recognize the need for operational changes, to those actively managing transitions, and leaders who have successfully navigated these phases.Notable Quotes:"You’re really not alone. There’s a whole community of business owners that are doing these things every day that are feeling the same things you’re feeling.""Our show is about business owners telling all—the good, the bad, and everything in between. By hearing others’ stories, you might not feel as alone and can learn how to avoid obstacles they’ve already overcome."Connect with SeekerSolution:Visit: seekersolution.comApply to be a Guest: Click the podcast link on the homepage to apply if you’re a business owner who wants to share your journey.Call to Action:If you’re feeling overwhelmed as a business owner, SeekerSolution is here to help. Schedule a call today at seekersolution.com. Don’t forget to subscribe and stay tuned for future episodes with incredible guests sharing valuable insights into their entrepreneurial journeys.

🎉 Welcome to What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All with Jamie Seeker!Get ready to be inspired, motivated, and enlightened by real stories from entrepreneurs who know what it takes to succeed. In this trailer episode, we’re sharing highlights from our first interviews, where our incredible guests open up about their biggest lessons, toughest challenges, and proudest victories.Whether it’s navigating uncertainty, celebrating growth, or finding balance along the way, What It Takes promises to deliver authentic, actionable, and heartfelt conversations to fuel your entrepreneurial journey.🔥 Official launch coming Dec 5! Follow and subscribe now so you won’t miss the first full episode.💡 It’s not just about the destination — it’s about the journey. Let’s find out what it takes!