Shows
Business BlueprintsEpisode 31: Capturing the Market with Greg SproulIn this episode of Business Blueprints, Justin sits down with Greg Sproul, founder of Captured Listings, to talk about turning a side hustle into a growing real estate media business. Greg shares how he built his company on word of mouth and organic marketing—without traditional advertising. They explore what it takes to scale a seasonal service business, the challenges of hiring, and the nuances of working in both standard and luxury markets. Greg also opens up about the shifting content landscape, viral clips, and why creating value goes beyond just showing up with a camera. 2025-06-181h 23Business BlueprintsEpisode 30 - Hugh RumbaughIn this episode of Business Blueprints, Bryan sits down with Hugh Rumbaugh, a construction entrepreneur who’s built a multi-business portfolio across masonry, roofing, remodeling, insurance, and materials. Hugh shares how he transitioned from working in the field to owning and integrating ten companies under one umbrella. They discuss how to evaluate acquisition opportunities, maintain culture through ownership transitions, and build teams that operate independently. Hugh explains why he prioritizes lean, profitable companies with strong operators—and how he approaches post-sale integration with clarity and empathy. The conversation also touches on cash flow management, marketing ROI...2025-05-281h 26Business BlueprintsEpisode 29 - Justin Escajeda | Escajeda MasonryIn this episode of Business Blueprints, Bryan sits down with Justin Escajeda of Escajeda Masonry to unpack what it takes to grow a construction business without losing control or culture. Justin shares his journey from working in the field to acquiring and overseeing multiple businesses across trades. He talks through the challenges of transitioning out of daily operations, trusting leaders, and maintaining efficiency across companies. The conversation covers how to evaluate a business for acquisition, the importance of post-sale transitions, and why not every deal is worth doing. They also reflect on the state of m...2025-05-141h 14Business BlueprintsEpisode 29 - Tyler Hoberman | First Choice Home ImprovementsIn this episode of Business Blueprints, Bryan is joined by Tyler Hoberman to explore the importance of mastering one business model before expanding into new ventures. They dive into the common trap of chasing multiple income streams too early, sharing personal experiences in real estate and construction that illustrate how a focused approach builds a stronger foundation. Tyler opens up about his own path—starting with home flipping and rentals—and how doubling down on one model led to real growth. The conversation also covers the risks of premature diversification, the role of disciplined systems, and...2025-04-301h 13Business BlueprintsEpisode 28 - Mike Claudio | WinRate ConsultingIn this episode of Business Blueprints, Bryan sits down with Mike Claudio, founder of WinRate Consulting and ZDM Marketing, for a candid conversation on leadership, scaling, and personal growth. Mike shares insights from a full day spent coaching Bryan’s team, emphasizing the importance of evolving leadership alongside business growth. They discuss the challenges of hitting growth plateaus, building effective systems, and the emotional toll of leading through rapid scaling. The episode explores how leaders must transition from doers to strategic guides, the risks of miscommunication with teams, and the necessity of investing in both pe...2025-04-161h 15Business BlueprintsEpisode 27 - Al Farah | Build412In this episode of Business Blueprints, host Bryan Bercik sits down with Al Farah to explore the journey of building a successful contracting business and navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship in the construction industry. Al shares how he got his start in the business, from early experiences in the field to the pivotal moments that led him to establish and grow his own company. The conversation highlights the importance of discipline, strategic decision-making, and building strong relationships to sustain long-term success. The discussion also covers key industry insights, including the role of pricing strategies, managing...2025-03-281h 27Business BlueprintsEpisode 26 - Brian KirchnerIn this episode of Business Blueprints, Bryan sits down with Brian Kirchner from City Life Group to discuss the journey of building a real estate investment and management powerhouse in Pittsburgh. They explore the early days of starting in real estate, the pivotal moments that led to launching City Life, and the strategic decisions that shaped their growth. The conversation delves into the complexities of running a brokerage, investing in properties, and scaling a business while maintaining operational efficiency. Brian shares insights on why they initially pursued a ReMax franchise, the challenges of managing agents, and the...2025-02-261h 49Business BlueprintsEpisode 25 - EJ Pettiford In this episode of Business Blueprints, host Brian welcomes tattoo artist EJ Pettiford, who has been pursuing his lifelong dream of tattooing in the Pittsburgh area for five years. EJ shares his journey, highlighting the various jobs and experiences that led him to finally achieve his goal. He discusses his current position at Crimson Lotus Collective, where he works alongside mentors who have significantly influenced his creative growth in the tattoo industry. The episode reflects on the importance of meaningful conversations and planning, with Brian and EJ reminiscing about their many car rides where they mapped out EJ's path...2025-02-121h 34Business BlueprintsEpisode 24 - Bradley JacobsIn this episode of Business Blueprints, guest Bradely Jacobs joins Bryan to discuss the power of focusing on a single business model before branching out into new ventures. The conversation highlights the pitfalls of “scatterbrain syndrome,” where entrepreneurs attempt to juggle multiple income streams, often at the expense of true mastery and success. Drawing from real-world experiences, the speakers share insights on building a strong foundation by concentrating on one area, such as flipping homes or multifamily properties, before diversifying. They delve into lessons learned about market dynamics, scaling effectively, and avoiding financial strain caused by premature expan...2025-01-221h 30Business BlueprintsEpisode 23 - Jim FredoIn this episode of Business Blueprints, Bryan interviews Jim Fredo from Spring Capital Partners about his transition from corporate America to real estate investing. Jim shares lessons learned from early mistakes and discusses his investment strategies, including conservative financial practices and managing multifamily properties. Bryan and Jim delve into key aspects of property management, from tenant relations to renovations. They discuss the importance of vertical integration, using project management tools like Asana, and maintaining integrity in construction. Bryan also reflects on the challenges of hiring virtual assistants and the significance of local knowledge in Pittsburgh's real estate...2025-01-151h 24Business BlueprintsEpisode 22 - Phil Pagliari In episode 22 of Business Blueprints, Bryan welcomes Phil Pagliari, a multifaceted individual who is a Christian, father, husband, pastor at Valley Remnant Church, designer, and freelancer. The episode dives into Phil's inspiring journey, highlighting the significant transformations he has undergone since high school. Phil shares his experiences, starting from his graduation in 2004, his brief stint at Pittsburgh Technical Institute, and his early ventures from the streets of Denora. Despite a tumultuous start, Phil's story is one of resilience and continuous growth, showcasing his commitment to his mission and the remarkable changes he has embraced over the years. Tune in...2024-12-312h 44Business BlueprintsEpisode 21 - Matt Durbin In this episode of Business Blueprints, Bryan is joined by Matt Durbin from mad.homes to dive into the world of real estate and mortgages. Matt shares his extensive experience in the industry, starting from his beginnings in mortgage in 2005 during the subprime boom. He discusses his transition to Fort Lauderdale, where he launched a mortgage broker business before shifting focus to real estate brokerage. With 30+ agents and nearly 300 transactions a year, the conversation touches on the challenges of managing a growing team and the importance of staying focused on core business goals. The conversation h...2024-12-181h 13Business BlueprintsEpisode 21 - Kevin CrewsIn this episode of Business Blueprints, Bryan sits down with Kevin Crews, founder of Crews Barbecue & Catering, to explore how he transformed his passion for grilling into a thriving business. Starting with just a few grills and a pop-up stand, Kevin grew his operation into a staple at festivals, weddings, and large-scale events, emphasizing the importance of determination, quality, and community support. Kevin dives into the logistics and challenges of the barbecue world, from participating in high-profile events like Rib Fest to managing the operational demands of a large-scale food business. He credits networking with industry professionals...2024-12-041h 12Business BlueprintsEpisode 20 - Arron Groomes 2024-11-201h 53
Business BlueprintsEpisode 19 - Jon MasugaWHEN YOU SEE A PROBLEM IN THE MARKET, TRY AND FIX IT! In this episode Bryan sits down with agent and construction professional Jon Masuga! Hear how the guys met back in 2014 and how flipping brought them together. The guys talk learning the how to’s and why remodeling was the next pivot from flipping. Hear Jon's opinion about why it’s so hard finding the right properties and why people are turned off by lazy flips. Find out what a client avatar even is during this awesome discussion. Lastly, Jon also thinks to be a real esta...2024-11-061h 46
Business BlueprintsEpisode 18 - Travis Kenny & Adam Fincik (Planet Roof)GROWTH IN A BUSINESS STARTS WITH SELF-DEVELOPMENT! In this episode, Bryan sits down with Travis Kenny & Adam Fincik of Planet Roof! Hear the guy's amazing story of how to run a business and still believe in yourself, and to know when it needs to pivot. Being in business together for 9 years they noticed they were not properly running their business. Now the guys are leading from the front with both in sales after restructuring. They dive into a common theme on our show - RELATIONSHIPS ARE EVERYTHING and business coaching is KEY! The guys also gi...2024-10-231h 14
Business BlueprintsEpisode 17 - Dan CostantinoTHE POWER OF EDUCATION In this one, Bryan is joined by a person he has known for a very long time, Daniel Costantino of Achieve Capital Partners! The guys go over some war stories and Dan's most recent nightmare that has now turned out into a great thing. He also explains how he got his start and how a mastermind group changed his life. His biggest piece of advice on how to learn is "Get around the people who do what you want to do". Also who doesn't love hearing some crazy covid business stories?! ...2024-10-091h 18
Business BlueprintsEpisode 16 - DJ FairleyTHE LESSON IN THIS ONE IS GOOD BUSINESS GOES A LONG WAY! In this episode, Bryan sits down with friend DJ Fairley of eXp Realty LLC. The guys go over a lot in this one including their takes on the current market. DJ drops some gems and even gives some of the key pointers to how his business navigates the ever-changing landscape. The guys are both fans of the 75 Hard Challenge and explain why they think it makes you a better business owner. Both Bryan and DJ are in agreeance on the importance of interest ra...2024-09-261h 19
Business BlueprintsEpisode 15 - Kevin O'LaughlinWE ARE BACK AFTER A QUICK SUMMER VACATION! In this episode, Bryan sits down with lender Kevin O'Laughlin of Movement Mortgage. Hear a story of someone who bounced around looking for the right industry and FOUND IT. Kevin originally from NY has worked in loans most of his life. He got into understanding mortgages during his time in Houston Texas. He fully explains why the mortgage industry and specifically things like interest rates have changed so much over the years. He goes into how his line of work has changed and undergone a process of ma...2024-09-091h 07
Business BlueprintsEpisode 14 - Brian GaudianoIn this episode, we sit down with fellow builder and business owner Brian Gaudiano of Omega Building Company. The guys talk about everything from the difference between private and public builds to why you take on bonds. We also hear from Brian about what matters most in his life and how adjustments are KEY when owning a business. When Brian founded Omega he was motivated to build on the core values he holds close in his life. Honesty, integrity, building others up and always doing the right thing. Services they offer Re-purposing and Renovations – Our te...2024-08-201h 13
Business BlueprintsEpisode 13 - Amy HawkinsIn this episode, we talk interiors with Amy Hawkins of HSD Services! Amy was the daughter of a house flipper (BEFORE IT WAS POPULAR), and that's just where her experience began. As we talk in this episode, the term designer is a loose-based term. Some people just hang their hats with their certifications and college degrees, but that is simply not her. Unlike most in her industry, she likes to explain the why, the HOW-TO of it all. Constant communication and consistent work and effort are the name of the game. This, like most of our episodes is FULL...2024-08-051h 09
Business BlueprintsEpisode 12 - Chris MisutkaIn this episode we talk M-O-N-E-Y with Chris Misutka of M&M Holdings. There is some real business gems in here and a pretty amazing walkthrough of the work Bryan and Chris do together regularly! Also, hear the DON'TS when borrowing money from people like Chris. Chris was born and raised in the here Pittsburgh area and after earning a B.A. in accounting from Pennsylvania State University, Chris moved to New York City to start his career on the business side of the music industry. He returned in 2005 to help run his family’s real estate ho...2024-07-221h 07
Business BlueprintsEpisode 11 - Matt SimmonsIn this TREMENDOUS episode, Bryan sits down with Whole Sale Godfather and fellow businessman Matt Simmons of Fifth Avenue Property Group to discuss a plethora of things! Whether you are a small business owner or just have that small pipe dream in the back of your head, this is an interview you won't want to miss. Matt talks about his career and the many different business ventures he has had. Hear why he truly found peace and focus during his year of exploration and also why his wife saved his company. There is to many stories in this one...2024-07-091h 24
Business BlueprintsEpisode 10 - The Office Staff Of Hemlock Homes!In this one, you get to meet the ladies of Hemlock Homes! Bryan is joined by Taylor Campbell, Stephanie Cup and Sara Heisler to discuss their roles at Hemlock and just how much has changed in such a short time. You'll also hear about just how different their roles are and how important each is. You are going to get to hear some funny stories about just how crazy Bryan is and how bad a virtual assistant can be. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! 2024-06-211h 13
Business BlueprintsEpisode 9 - MON MANIA!In this one Bryan talks with friends Tim and Steve about the origins of MON MANIA and how it got started! Mon Mania is a 501c non- profit LLC. originated in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in 2020. Mon Mania events are organized by Volunteers. Barefoot skiers also volunteer their boats and time to raise money for charity. The Mon Mania event is an annual 36 mile barefoot endurance race held by our hosts at the beautiful Green Cove Yacht Club Rt 88, Clarksville, PA. Approximately 10 barefoot water ski teams compete to win the title belt. Festivities are held after the race. Merch is...2024-06-0451 min
Business BlueprintsEpisode 8 - Tim PitschkeIn this one Bryan sits down with friend and fellow business owner Tim Pitschke! Now Tim unlike some others that have been on this show is not in the Homebuilding or Real Estate world. His businesses actually operate almost as two entities. First his company Car Cleen which was started back in 1968 is a chemical manufacturer for car detailing and cleaning products. A few years back he actually took the reigns from his cousin and helped navigate it through covid (WAIT UNTIL YOU HEAR THAT BUSINESS PIVOT!). His second ProTrim PGH is a trusted name in the automotive industry, r...2024-05-201h 28
Business BlueprintsEpisode 7 - Craig MarkleyIn this one Bryan is joined by friend Craig Markley of Rough Diamond and the two talk their extensive friendship and even slight falling out a few years back. They not only talk about WHEN is the right time to grow your business, but they also talk about whether it's the right thing to do! Bryan sprinkles a ton of free game in this one about scaling up and when is the right time to expand your team. We even hear about some fun riding stories where Craig may or may have tried to save t...2024-05-071h 23
Business BlueprintsEpisode 6 - Alex HebertWe have a great one for you! Bryan and Alex have quite the journeys to share, full of personal growth and professional insights. Their discussion about their friendship and how they've learned from past mistakes offer some valuable lessons. Alex also really dives into why the challenges of building in Pittsburgh add an intriguing dimension to working here. This one has TONS of free game in it. Listen wherever you find your podcasts!2024-04-221h 27
Business BlueprintsEpisode 5 - Sarah MadiaWell we are back with another great episode! This time Bryan sits down with Realtor Sarah Madia to discuss her career and her past. The two talk her families business, the covid times (PS TIME TO LEARN A NEW APPROACH) and how going above and beyond for your clients is what will always be remembered! We also even get some advice from Sarah about how to become a better agent. Follow wherever you get your podcasts! 2024-04-091h 03
Business BlueprintsEpisode 4 - Justin LocanteIn this one Bryan sits down with long time friend and health extraordinaire Justin Locante. They dive into a whole lot of stuff including mental and physical health advice. Hear the guys also discuss not only how consistent Justin has been in this sector but how he has looked toward his own future with his personal business growth. Look for his new space to be launching very soon! @justinlocante on all socials if you want to get with a trainer who is truly going to get you right. 2024-03-261h 02
Business BlueprintsEpisode 3 - Steve Penrod (Penrod Construction Inc.)In this one Bryan sits down with friend Steve Penrod to discuss his family business and just HOW they have stay so consistent for so long. The guys dive into what's so different about their companies, but also weirdly enough what's so similar. Competition is great for the industry, however hear them discuss that's not all a kill or be killed out there. There is work for everyone and when we can all stop competing we will be better off. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! 2024-03-1156 min
Business BlueprintsEpisode 2 - DustinBuysHousesIn this one Bryan sits down with friend Dustin Singer to dicusss a plethora of things. The guys reflect on their pasts and the things they had to learn to get to where they are today. Hear some insights into Dustin's business and how his mistakes guide all his future decisions. There is ALOT of free game in this one including a pretty thorough explanation into the BRRRR method. Don't miss out! 2024-03-0151 min
Business BlueprintsEpisode 1 - Hemlock HomesEmbark on a captivating journey with Hemlock Homes as unravel the origin story of our comany and trace our remarkable growth over the past 5 and a half years with my partners Ryan Kennedy and Steven Powell. From humble beginnings to becoming a prominent player in the industry, we share the challenges, triumphs, and pivotal moments that shaped our evolution. Join us as we reflect on our milestones, innovations, and the unwavering committment that propelled Hemlock Homes to where we stand today.2024-02-191h 12
Real Estate Wholesaling SyndicateFrom Hardship to Houses w/ Bryan BercikIn an episode of the Wholesaling Syndicate podcast, host Ky Logue sits down with Bryan Bercik, co-owner of Hemlock Homes, to explore his extraordinary journey from adversity to success. Bercik openly shares his past struggles with drug and alcohol addiction, leading to imprisonment, and the pivotal moment when he chose sobriety, marking the beginning of his 13-year journey of recovery. His entry into the real estate industry around 2012-13 was driven by its high-risk, high-reward nature, echoing his past experiences in extreme sports and sales. Bercik's initial ventures in house flipping eventually evolved into a successful career in new...2023-11-1642 min
Building Great Sales TeamsBryan Bercik: A Legacy of Building MemoriesBryan Bercik is a seasoned CEO with expertise in sales and operations. He is the founder of Hemlock Homes, a new construction and remodeling company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.Under his leadership, Hemlock Homes has achieved remarkable success, scaling from a start-up to a thriving enterprise with a revenue of 9.5M in just four years. Bryan's innovative business strategies and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction have played a significant role in the company's rapid growth and success.Bryan is always open to engaging conversations and is willing to share his experiences and expertise with others...2023-05-0544 min
ODAAT PodcastBe In It For The Long Haul w/ Bryan BercikIn this episode of The ODAAT Podcast...I asked my good friend Bryan Bercick to come on the show to share his story about how he turned his life around.Bryan went from serving time in prison to becoming a successful business owner.Bryan holds nothing back and shares exactly how he got started and how he overcame all of the obstacles along the way.Get Free Tickets to my Biggest Event Yet - https://freewholesalinglive.com/Connect with Ky:www.kylogue.com2023-01-3141 min
The Business, Cars & Cigars PodcastIntegrity is Key With Bryan BercikBryan Bercik knows a thing or two about trial and error, and learning as you go. Not knowing the first thing about real estate, Bryan got into the industry in 2012 as a house flipper. When he bought his first investment, he realized he was in way over his head. He ended up way over budget, missed his timeline by a mile, and made no money. He felt like he had learned a lot though and dove into his second deal, where he made about $90k. The success went straight to his head. Moving his flips from the suburbs to...2022-10-1753 min
The Big Fish Cares PodcastEpisode 6: Benny Fisher & Bryan BercikJoining Benny on today's episode is friend and fellow entrepreneur, Bryan Bercik. Bryan is the co-owner/co-founder of Hemlock Homes, a leading independent home building company in Western, PA. Bryan shares his entrepreneurial journey of building his business, and all of the adversities and success along the way. A great listen for any new business owner embarking on their own journey!2022-03-041h 02
Capital Gains53. From Running the Streets to Building the Streets with Bryan BercikBryan Bercik is the owner of Hemlock Custom Homes in Pennsylvania. He grew up poor and got involved with drugs at a young age. After serving 20 years probation and going to prison numerous times, a RICO charge, and losing millions of dollars in the drug ring, he finally decided to get his life on track. Bryan now runs an $8 million dollar custom home developement business and builds dream homes for his clients. Bryan truly went from running the streets - to building the streets! Tune in for this awesome story!2022-02-0254 min
The Small Business SurgeonBryan Bercik: House Flipping, Getting Help, and Acting on Your PlansToday's guest is someone I've been trying to get on the show for a while now. He started out his career doing landscaping work and he's now the co-founder of Hemlock Homes out in Pittsburgh. He's a member of Apex and he's filled with nuggets of business wisdom. Please welcome to the show, Bryan Bercik! Check out Hemlock Homes in Pittsburgh: https://hemlockhomebuilding.comConnect with Bryan on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bryan.bercik2021-10-0447 min
Living LimitlessBryan Bercik Bryan Bercik has overcome adversity not once by twice being put through the system and being able to come out on top!Check out his Bio below and tell me you CAN'T34 years old I am from Pittsburgh, Pa. I worked for my dad landscaping for 13 years and moved up to crew leader of half the company after a while. Got into flipping houses around the 2013-2014 time frame. Didn’t waste any time and bought 2 houses immediately and learned like how most of us learn by taking action and making mistakes and fixing them alo...2021-08-0741 min