Shows
Traversing EntrepreneurshipWhy Most Entrepreneurs Fail (and How to Avoid It) with Mark OsborneWhat does it really take to build a business that scales and sells itself? In this episode of Traversing Entrepreneurship, Derek Dall'Olmo sits down with Mark Osborne, founder of Modern Revenue Strategies, to explore how systems, strategy, and clarity can turn chaos into predictable growth. Mark shares his evolution from the music industry to marketing technology expert, revealing how entrepreneurs can create structure, consistency, and freedom inside their businesses. You'll learn: 🎵 How Mark's creative roots led to a scalable marketing system 🧩 Why understanding customer needs is the foundation of every succes...
2025-12-1846 min
Traversing EntrepreneurshipThe Journey of Digital Marketing Expert Chris ShihadehThis week, Derek sits down with Chris Shihadeh, CEO of Skylab Digital, who shares his entrepreneurial journey, insights on navigating the competitive Medicare space, and the importance of financial literacy in business. Chris discusses the significance of building a strong team, identifying A, B, and C players in hiring, and empowering employees to solve problems. He emphasizes the role of data in digital marketing, managing cash flow in seasonal businesses, and leveraging debt for growth. The conversation concludes with key takeaways for aspiring entrepreneurs, highlighting the importance of understanding financials and learning to say no to distractions. ...
2025-09-2554 min
Traversing EntrepreneurshipMotivation and Entrepreneurship... What an Epic Journey with Eric StopperIn this episode of Traversing Entrepreneurship, Derek Dall'Olmo interviews Eric Stopper, an e-commerce expert and investor, to explore the highs and lows of entrepreneurship. From his early ventures in nanotechnology to his current success with Profitable, Eric shares candid insights into the challenges and triumphs of building a business. Discover how meditation, self-reflection, and a focus on family have shaped his journey. Key Moments: Eric's transition from nanotechnology to e-commerce and investing. The importance of self-discovery and meditation in entrepreneurship. How Eric balances business with family life. Insights into creating cash-flowing assets and financial freedom. Eri...
2025-09-1158 min
Traversing EntrepreneurshipNavigating Entrepreneurship with Beau EcksteinIn this episode Derek sits down with Beau Eckstein, owner of Business Ownership Coach and Emerge Lending Group. With over 26 years of experience, Beau shares his journey from a struggling student to a successful entrepreneur, offering insights into funding strategies, franchise consulting, and the importance of tax strategies. Discover how Beau's experiences, including a stint on HGTV, have shaped his approach to business and life. Key Topics: Beau's entrepreneurial journey and early challenges The role of SBA loans and franchise consulting in business growth Insights into tax strategies and financial planning The impact of...
2025-08-281h 03
Traversing EntrepreneurshipNavigating Entrepreneurship with Kasim AslamJoin host Derek as he sits down with Kasim Aslam, founder of Solutions 8, to explore the highs and lows of entrepreneurship. Kasim shares his journey from humble beginnings to building a successful Google ad agency, discussing the importance of talent acquisition, the impact of AI on business, and the lessons learned from his failures and successes. Key Takeaways: Kasim's unique approach to hiring and retaining top talent. Insights into the Pareto Principle and its application in business. The role of AI in shaping the future of entrepreneurship. Personal stories of resilience and growth from Kasim's career. Kas...
2025-08-141h 09
Traversing EntrepreneurshipHelping Your Team Dream Bigger with Kate VolmanIn this episode, Derek chats with Kate Volman—CEO, speaker, and big believer in helping people dream bigger. From her early days at the Chamber of Commerce to leading Floyd Consulting, Kate shares what she's learned about people, growth, and the messy (but rewarding) work of leadership. They talk about the real stuff—why most business problems are actually people problems, how leaders can create space for personal dreams at work, and why being creative isn't optional anymore. Whether you lead a team or are part of one, this is the kind of conversation that makes you paus...
2025-07-2447 min
Traversing EntrepreneurshipBuilding a Business That Works for You with Sarah Noel BlockDerek sits down with Sarah Noel Block, the brains behind Tiny Marketing and the Tiny Marketing Club—a go-to resource for indie consultants who want smart, simple marketing that actually drives business (without the overwhelm). They unpack Sarah's journey from the corporate world to building a business on her own terms. You'll hear how she turned a layoff during the recession into a springboard for entrepreneurship, how she ditched the agency grind for a membership model, and why she believes less but better is the future of marketing. This one's packed with real strategies—like Sara...
2025-07-1052 min
Traversing EntrepreneurshipNavigating the Entrepreneurial Journey with Corey MorrisIn this episode of the Traversing Entrepreneurship podcast, Derek Dall'Olmo interviews Corey Morris, founder of Voltage Digital Agency. They discuss Corey's journey from employee to business owner, the intricacies of digital marketing, particularly SEO, and the challenges and strategies involved in business acquisitions. Corey shares insights on leadership, the importance of transparency in negotiations, and how he has personalized his agency's approach to better serve clients. In this conversation, Corey Morris discusses the evolution of his marketing agency, Voltage, emphasizing the importance of niching down to enhance service quality and client relationships. He shares insights on defining s...
2025-06-2650 min
Traversing EntrepreneurshipNavigating the Emotional Rollercoaster of Entrepreneurship with Brian SmithIn this episode of the Traversing Entrepreneurship podcast, host Derek Dall'Olmo sits down with Brian Smith, an entrepreneur who's seen it all—from humble beginnings washing boats and launching a college photography business to navigating the highs and lows of real estate. Brian's story is one of grit, growth, and ultimately, reinvention. Burnout pushed Brian to make a life-altering decision: selling his businesses and stepping back to reassess his purpose. That pivotal moment led him to coaching and founding the Founders Organization, where he now helps fellow entrepreneurs thrive. Brian opens up about the emotional ch...
2025-06-121h 13
Traversing EntrepreneurshipNavigating the Private Credit Landscape: Mike Shum's JourneyIn this episode of Traversing Entrepreneurship, Derek Dall'Olmo sits down with Mike Shum, CEO of Cascade Debt, to unpack his journey from derivatives trader to fintech founder. Mike opens up about the risks, missteps, and breakthroughs that shaped Cascade's rise in the private credit space. They dive into how alternative credit scoring is reshaping lending, what most people get wrong about asset-based finance, and why economic shifts are forcing innovation in fintech. If you're building in the world of money—or thinking about it—this conversation is packed with firsthand insight. Key Moments: 00:00 Intr...
2025-05-2249 min
Traversing EntrepreneurshipFrom Forest Service to Global Visa with Rob LeeThis week on Traversing Entrepreneurship, Derek sits down with Rob Lee, co-founder and CEO of Swiss Passport and Visa Services, a company that expedites passports and obtains visas. Rob and his wife, Lori, started the business 17 years ago after living in Central America and encountering a need for such a service. Initially relying on paid ads, they shifted focus to business partnerships, particularly with Fortune 500 companies in the aviation, legal, and manufacturing sectors. They are now developing a software application to streamline travel document management. Rob emphasizes the importance of adapting to change and leveraging technology to improve efficiency.
2025-05-0858 min
Traversing EntrepreneurshipBuilding an Uncopyable Brand: Marketing Strategies with Steve MillerIn this episode of Traversing Entrepreneurship, Derek Dall'Olmo sits down with Steve Miller, best-selling author and marketing consultant, to discuss the power of differentiation in business. Steve shares his journey from aspiring PGA Tour player to renowned marketing expert and explains why creating an uncopyable brand is essential for long-term success. He highlights the importance of personal branding, the credibility boost of writing a book, and why businesses should focus on understanding their target market—what he calls the "moose." Steve also explores innovation through observation, the dangers of competing on price, and why offline marketing strategies still hold im...
2025-02-271h 05
Traversing EntrepreneurshipZero to One: The Art of Product Development with Nick McEvilyIn this episode of Traversing Entrepreneurship, Derek Dall'Olmo interviews Nick McEvily, head of product at XGen Ai. They dive into Nick's journey from design to product leadership, his experiences with startup successes and failures, and the importance of testing assumptions in product development. Nick discusses how AI is transforming the retail landscape, the significance of user experience in software design, and why fractional product leadership can be a game-changer for early-stage companies. This episode offers valuable insights on decision-making, problem-solving, and the mindset required to navigate the entrepreneurial landscape successfully. Key Moments: 00:00 Introduction to Entrepreneurship and AI
2025-02-1351 min
Traversing EntrepreneurshipThe Future of Entrepreneurship in a Tech-Driven World with Adam FinebergIn this episode of the Traversing Entrepreneurship podcast, Derek Dall'Olmo interviews Matt Theriault, the CEO and founder of Epic Real Estate. Matt shares his journey from the music industry to real estate, highlighting the challenges he faced and the valuable lessons he learned. He discusses creative financing strategies, the importance of finding profitable deals, and how to build wealth through real estate investment. Matt also explains the transition to turnkey real estate investments and how these can simplify the process for investors. Throughout the episode, Matt and Derek cover key aspects of entrepreneurship and real estate, including...
2025-01-301h 01
Traversing EntrepreneurshipThe Power of Networking in Real Estate Investing with Matt TheriaultIn this episode of the Traversing Entrepreneurship podcast, Derek Dall'Olmo interviews Matt Theriault, the CEO and founder of Epic Real Estate. Matt shares his journey from the music industry to real estate, highlighting the challenges he faced and the valuable lessons he learned. He discusses creative financing strategies, the importance of finding profitable deals, and how to build wealth through real estate investment. Matt also explains the transition to turnkey real estate investments and how these can simplify the process for investors. Throughout the episode, Matt and Derek cover key aspects of entrepreneurship and real estate, including...
2025-01-161h 05
Traversing EntrepreneurshipStaying Ahead of the Curve: The Future of Marketing for Advisors featuring Jake WagnerIn this episode of Traversing Entrepreneurship, we are extremely excited to be joined by Jake Wagner, CDMP as he shares proven strategies and insights to help financial professionals attract their ideal clients, deliver exceptional service, and grow a sustainable business. Whether you're a seasoned advisor or just starting out, you'll find actionable tips and real-world examples to take your practice to the next level. Tune in and start optimizing your marketing, operations, and client experience today. This week on Traversing Entrepreneurship: 0:01:55 Jake discusses what motivated him to start his own agency...
2024-12-121h 25
Traversing EntrepreneurshipFrom Engineer to Empowering Coach: Sairan Aqrawi's Remarkable ReinventionIn this episode, we are joined by Sairan Aqrawi as she shares her remarkable journey from Kurdish immigrant to successful business coach and mentor. After initially struggling to adapt to life in the US, Sairan discovered her true calling in coaching and personal development, transitioning from a decades-long engineering career. She emphasizes the importance of clarity, focus, and grit when pursuing entrepreneurial goals, drawing parallels between parenting and leading teams. Sairan's story underscores the value of progress over perfection, and how setbacks can ultimately shape one's path to success. Whether you're a young professional or an experienced entrepreneur, Sairan's...
2024-11-1459 min
Traversing EntrepreneurshipTraversing the Private Equity Landscape: Opportunities and Challenges with Brad ZappEver wonder what it takes to build a successful business from scratch? Join us as we sit down with serial entrepreneur Brad Zapp to get the inside scoop on his journey from wealth management to founding a cutting-edge digital VC firm. You won't want to miss this eye-opening conversation! Brad Zapp is a CFP, was a former founder of an independent Wealth Advisory Firm, sold that, and founded a Digital Venture Capital firm that uses AI to vet opportunities. he is now bringing his private Strategy to the public by registering with the SEC and will be...
2024-10-1057 min
Traversing EntrepreneurshipAn Entrepreneur's Tale of Triumph and Transformation with Christophe DessaigneChristophe Dessaigne joins us to share his entrepreneurial journey, from starting a tech company helping blind people to co-founding the online grocery store Jack B. He talks about the challenges of the online grocery industry and how Jack B is tackling them. Christophe also opens up about his personal growth, dealing with childhood wounds, and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. You do not want to miss this episode! Christophe Dessaigne is a co-founder of JackBe, a disruptive, online-only grocery store model based out of Oklahoma City that aims to serve people and build His Kingdom. Prior to that, Christophe spent...
2024-09-2849 min
Traversing EntrepreneurshipFearless Finances: Empowering Women to Achieve More with Jenna BiancavillaJenna Biancavilla, a multipreneur, joins me in this episode to discuss her journey from pre-med to finance, highlighting her dynamic career shift due to a career assessment. She founded Pearl Capital in 2016, aiming to provide unbiased financial advice. Jenna also launched Savvy, a tech company vetting financial advisors, and an online masterclass, Elevate Your Wealth. She emphasizes the importance of hiring early, delegating tasks, and maintaining a flexible work environment. Jenna advised aspiring entrepreneurs to find their passion, understand their limitations, and have a clear end game. She also stresses the importance of transparency in financial advice and the...
2024-09-101h 17
Traversing EntrepreneurshipStealth Consulting: Guiding Entrepreneurs Through the Chaos with Wesley J. MathewsIn this episode, I sit down with Wes Matthews, the CEO and co-founder of Stealth Consulting. Wes shares his journey from the corporate world to the entrepreneurial realm, and how he's now helping other entrepreneurs succeed through his fractional CMO services. Learn about the power of the EOS system, the importance of finding the right team, and Wes' advice for those looking to start or grow their own business. Â This week on Traversing Entrepreneurship: Â 0:00:06 meet Wes Mathews 0:01:16 Discussing the start of Wes' entrepreneurial journey. 0:02:45 Transitioning out of th...
2024-08-2255 min
Traversing EntrepreneurshipOvercoming Adversity Through Mindfulness and Entrepreneurship with Dr. Allen LomaxDr. Allen Lomax joins Derek to share his personal journey of overcoming struggles and setbacks through mindfulness, empathy, and personal growth. They discuss their experiences in real estate investing, including strategies for raising capital and sourcing properties, and the importance of relationships and validation. They also explore the challenges of providing affordable housing in rapidly growing cities and the rising costs of rent for college students. Through their stories and insights, they emphasize the power of empathy and mindfulness in achieving success and making impactful investments. This week on Traversing Entrepreneurship:
2024-06-2557 min
Traversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 40 - Automating Your Business to Create Growth and Personal Freedom with Matt ClarkDerek Dall'Olmo interviews Matt Clark to discuss his experiences in leveraging AI and automation to build successful B2B marketing businesses. They emphasized the importance of finding the right people to hire and train, and highlighted the need for high-quality clients and the challenges faced by car dealerships in the current market. They also discussed their approaches to scaling sales and lead generation on LinkedIn, and prioritizing freedom and lifestyle in their businesses. Additionally, they discussed the importance of accountability in business, particularly in the context of marketing efforts, and emphasized the need for agencies and clients to work...
2024-06-1148 min
Traversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 39 - Entrepreneurship, Learning Challenges, and Environmental Stewardship with Gerald RosengartenThis episode highlights the career journey of entrepreneur Gerald Rosengarten, from developing leisure suits to real estate projects, with an empire in solar energy. Gerald discusses his experience with dyslexia and efforts to help others with learning disabilities. The discussion provides advice on entrepreneurship, highlighted bureaucratic challenges, and generated action items around advocacy and new product launches. "I went to a men's manufacturer and I was showing the jacket with a woman named Clara Hancock who was the premier writer for menswear daily, which was the main paper, she looked at the jacket and said...
2024-05-281h 02
Traversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 38 - Saying No to Make Room for Yes: Prioritizing Values Over Profits in Business with Josh TraegerIn this episode Josh Traeger joins Derek Dall'Olmo to discuss his experience starting a law practice in Traverse City, Michigan. They share their perspectives on the challenges and rewards of starting a business in a small town, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and personalized service. They also discuss legal standards and procedures in military courts, and the difficulties and rewards of prosecuting child sexual assault cases. Additionally, they touch on the growing trend of individuals in small towns pursuing entrepreneurial careers, and share their insights on ethical dilemmas in business and the legal profession. "If I'm...
2024-05-141h 07
Traversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 37 - Articulating Your Vision: Helping Entrepreneurs Plan for Success with Natasha E DavisNatasha E. Davis, affectionately known as "The Chief Visionary" is the CEO and founder of Impact Branding Consulting, Inc. and the CRM software platform The Profit Enhancer Analysis. Natasha specializes in positioning the daily operations of corporations and government agencies to perform in alignment with the vision of the leader through strategic planning and branding. Her specialty is helping entrepreneurs, companies and government create brands that have a sustainable & profitable impact. She believes that every business owner and leader should Think Big; Build Momentum and Scale Fast. In this episode Derek is joined by Dr. Tonya Robertson...
2024-02-201h 13
Traversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 37 - Articulating Your Vision: Helping Entrepreneurs Plan for Success with Natasha E DavisNatasha E. Davis, affectionately known as “The Chief Visionary” is the CEO and founder of Impact Branding Consulting, Inc. and the CRM software platform The Profit Enhancer Analysis. Natasha specializes in positioning the daily operations of corporations and government agencies to perform in alignment with the vision of the leader through strategic planning and branding. Her specialty is helping entrepreneurs, companies and government create brands that have a sustainable & profitable impact. She believes that every business owner and leader should Think Big; Build Momentum and Scale Fast. In this episode Derek is joined by Natasha E. Davis as s...
2024-02-201h 13
Traversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 36 - Overcoming Entrepreneurial Fears with Dr. Tonya RobertsonDr. Tonya Robertson, the learning and strategy specialist is the Founder and CEO of Focused Training Solutions, a company that is committed to curating instructional learning tools designed to optimize performance in the workplace. Dr. Robertson has worked with numerous C-Suite Executives of well-known companies to create training materials that will guide their team to success and establish good retention among their employees. Alongside working tirelessly to help others be productive in the workplace, Tonya also devotes her time to organizations such as the Association of Talent Development and Dell's Women Entrepreneur Network. She has also received a Doctorate...
2024-01-2355 min
Traversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 35 - From Corporate Job to Land Investor: Nolan Miracle's Unconventional Path to Success Nolan Miracle is the founder and owner of The Property Miracle, LLC, a raw land investment company. Since founding the business in January of 2021, Nolan and his team have acquired nearly 40 properties and have generated hundreds of thousands of dollars in profits. With a national remote business model, they've bought and sold land all over the country from the comforts of their desks. Nolan Miracle joins us to discuss his unconventional path from corporate tech job to founding a successful land investment company, Property Miracle LLC. He details his journey of learning the business through...
2023-11-2848 min
Traversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 34 - Matt Lesser Returns to Discuss the Pillars of Empathy, Empowerment, and Excellence in LeadershipMatt Lesser started his career leading his family's struggling business. It quickly failed, and Matt experienced a suicidal depression. Out of the ashes, a new business emerged and grew from three people to nearly two hundred while experiencing a twenty-fold increase in revenue, before selling to trusted competitors. Matt then served in a C-Suite role in private equity for 12 years, before serving transitional C-Suite roles in banking and commercial uniforms. Matt founded Uniquely Normal, LLC in 2021 to equip leaders to solve their costly people-related challenges by building flourishing organizations on the pillars of Empathy, Empowerment...
2023-11-1450 min
Traversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 33 - Asking the Universe and Taking Action with Martin SalamaFor over a decade Martin Salama, The Architect of The Warrior's L.I.F.E. Code has been helping entrepreneurs shift from worry and lack to abundance and being a L.I.F.E. Warrior! Why spend your time worrying when you can be Living Incredibly Full Everyday! In this episode Martin Salama shares his journey of overcoming bankruptcy and divorce to become a successful life coach and author. He discusses tools like stopping reactions and starting responses, focusing on strengths over weaknesses, and leveraging others' expertise. Martin also provides business advice around emotional intelligence...
2023-10-241h 20
Traversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 32 - Exponential Digital Growth with Michael BeggMichael Begg is the Co-Founder and CEO of AMZ Advisers, a global digital marketing agency with locations in North America, Asia and Europe that provides Amazon services for brands and manufacturers looking to maximize their growth. Services include Amazon SEO, Advertising, Inventory Management, Marketing Strategy and Performance Reporting. This episode features Michael Begg, an expert in e-commerce and digital marketing. He shares his journey from real estate to building a successful Amazon agency, AMZ Advisors. This episode dives into topics such as understanding business motivations, scaling brands on Amazon, and the challenges and strategies involved...
2023-10-1047 min
Traversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 31 - Gospel Roots: A Non-Traditional Approach to Music Education with Marshall WhiteMarshall White, is CEO and founder of Unity Performing Arts Foundation and Director/Life Coach for the Voices of Unity Youth Choir. Marshall has three children Markeyta, Kamia, and Evan White and a stepson Chad Blackmon. He is married to Cynthia White. Mr. White has been shaping and molding young lives for more than 30 years. He is an accomplished musician, music and vocal coach, choral director specializing in teaching the soulful choral singing style and inspiring choir members to reach their ultimate potential by striving for excellence. In today's conversation, Derek sits down with Marshall...
2023-09-261h 20
Traversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 30 - Trading Energy, Words, and Wisdom with Mike ZaccardiMike Zaccardi, CFA, CMT, provides expertise on analyzing investments and writing on personal finance, in addition to occasionally teaching at the University of North Florida. He loves to communicate financial information in a down-to-earth, easy-to-understand way. While he enjoys crunching the numbers and analyzing portfolios, Mike always keeps a focus on what it means for clients. In this episode, Mike Zaccardi shares his unique journey, from breaking into the financial sector to managing power generation during tumultuous times such as the Texas energy snafu. As he dives into his transition from teaching and trading to...
2023-09-1254 min
Traversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 29 - The Return of Matt Hodges! Winning Strategies in a Cutthroat Real Estate MarketMatt Hodges is the Managing Broker and Owner of Kultura Real Estate. With over 16 years of experience, he specializes in residential listings and purchases in the greater Grand Traverse region. Matt is an industry leader, currently serving as a Director on the Michigan Association of Realtors Board of Directors. Matt has also served on Aspire North Realtors Board of Directors, the local association for over 4 years and was honored as board president in 2022. In addition to his work at Kultura Real Estate, Matt is a US Navy veteran who is passionate about helping his community. In this...
2023-08-2238 min
Traversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 28 - Introducing Alex Repo + NIL (Name, Image, Likeness)In this episode we welcome Alex Repo, the newest member of the TreMonte team! Hear Alex's story about how he went from working in a factory, to eventually serving as Derek's caddy and ultimately joining the TreMonte family. We discuss the impact of NIL deals in college, highlighting the newfound opportunities for athletes to monetize their personal brand. We keep the conversation fun and lighthearted while we discuss the varying implications for athletes at different stages of their careers, from highly touted prospects to lesser-known talents. "A lot of athletic departments have boosters, very wealthy people who...
2023-08-0835 min
Traversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 27 - Realtor Success Secrets with Kellie SergentKellie Sergent is a realtor based in Northern Michigan. Before becoming a realtor, Kellie worked in parks and recreation where she found the opportunity to combine three of her passions: people, community, and making an impact. Today, as a realtor for CENTURY 21, Kellie remains passionate about creating community by helping people find their perfect home, dream vacation retreat, or business venture. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Parks and Recreation from Michigan State University and a Master's degree from Central Michigan University. Kellie joins us today to share her passion for the real estate industry...
2023-04-2544 minTraversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 26 - The Five Pillars of Effective Marketing with John SmiddyJohn Smiddy is the founder and a managing partner of LeadPlan Marketing, a firm dedicated to guiding clients toward business success by helping them reach a larger audience. As a marketing consultant, John has helped market and scale over 200 companies in various industries over the past decade. He is the author of STOP Guessing, START Marketing and the creator of the 5 Pillars of Sales Conversions formula at LeadPlan Marketing. He is also the host of The Marketing Fundamentals Podcast and founder of NutraMarketers. John joins us today to share his passion for marketing and outline...
2023-04-1149 minTraversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 25 - Entrepreneurial Empowerment with Matt LesserMatt Lesser joins us to discuss the ups and downs entrepreneurs can face and the importance of resilience and support when navigating the unpredictable world of business. Matt is the Founder/CEO of Uniquely Normal, LLC, which exists to equip leaders to build flourishing organizations through empathy. Prior to launching Uniquely Normal, Matt owned and operated businesses, and served in several C-Suite roles across various industries. Our conversation takes a deep dive into Matt's entrepreneurial journey, detailing the challenges he faced when taking over his family's oil business. From discovering over a million dollars in...
2023-03-281h 03Traversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 24 - Learning and Growing from Success and Failures with Stewart TownsendStewart Townsend is the co-owner and Chief Revenue Officer of Podcast Hawk, a SaaS company created to automatically help people get booked as podcast guests. Stewart is also the founder of Channel as a Service, a consultancy firm that helps businesses accelerate B2B SaaS sales growth through every stage of the channel life-cycle. Before starting his career as an entrepreneur, Stewart worked in several tech and software development companies at varying capacities, including serving as the Director for Channel Development at ZenDesk and working with Oracle's EMEA Business Development & Startup Essentials. He holds a BSC Hons in Business...
2023-03-1454 minTraversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 23 - 401k IRA LimitsA lot of changes have been made to retirement plans in 2022 and 2023. Specifically, changes in rules and regulations have been made in the contribution limits to IRA and 401k. With these new revisions, it's more important than ever for business owners to be educated and empowered to make informed decisions about their retirement savings—ensuring they're maximizing the benefits available to them. In this episode, we discuss the recent changes to the 401K and IRA contribution limits for 2023. We explore how business owners can take advantage of those changes and maximize their retirement savings. We di...
2023-02-2820 minTraversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 22 - Why Businesses FailJoin Derek Dall'Olmo and Melissa Niedzielski on the latest episode of the Traversing Entrepreneurship podcast as they delve into the reasons why businesses fail and provide practical advice to avoid common pitfalls. Discover the importance of market research, self-management, and leadership, as well as the benefits of having a solid business plan in place. They also explore the notion that starting a business doesn't necessarily require a pile of cash, as there are numerous businesses that can be started with little to no capital. Join our hosts as they discuss the interplay between brains and...
2023-02-1418 minTraversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 21 - Personal Insurance and Medicare FAQs with Geoffrey Harris & Traci GeorgeGeoffrey Harris is the Vice President of Medicare Sales at Michigan Planners, a full-service insurance agency specializing in employer group benefits. He graduated from Northern Michigan University with a degree in Business Administration and has been working in the insurance and financial services industry for over 40 years. Before joining Michigan Planners, Geoffrey worked as a financial representative for Northwestern Mutual for over 25 years. He went on to found Harris Insurance Agency and operated it before its merger with Michigan Planners. Traci George is an individual specialist at Michigan Planners and has been with the agency...
2023-01-0353 minTraversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 20 - An Inside Look at the Restaurant Industry with Jeffrey LibmanJeffrey Libman is the General Manager of amical. Located in the heart of downtown Traverse City and overlooking the West Grand Traverse Bay, amical has been offering eclectic European cuisine since 1994. Jeffrey's love for the restaurant industry began when he was 14 working at a hotdog stand in Illinois. He later worked at Maggiano's, where he would manage the restaurant's Virginia and Washington D.C. locations and increase sales by 18.5%. Before moving to Traverse City with his family, Jeffrey worked at a Chicago restaurant group where he regularly served celebrities such as John Cusack and Michael Jordan.
2022-12-061h 08Traversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 19 - The Impact of a Strong Company Culture with Frederic HellerFrederic Heller is the President and owner of Northern Michigan Hospitality Management, a leading operator of destination, tourism, and transient properties. At the age of 25, Frederic became the General Manager of a hotel—he was an owner at 27. Under Frederic's leadership, Northern Michigan Hospitality Management has become a Marriott-approved company with several hotels under its management. Frederic holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Hospitality & Tourism Management from Grand Valley State University. Frederic joins us today to describe his journey as an entrepreneur in the hospitality industry. He explains how he became interested in hospitality an...
2022-11-2238 minTraversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 18 - Assess, Adapt, and Control: COVID ReprisalIn previous episodes of the Traversing Entrepreneurship Podcast, we asked our guests about their experiences with COVID-19—how they navigated it and how they adapted to the situation. At the height of the pandemic, the future was uncertain for business owners, who were without concrete guidance. But, despite the drastically different ways COVID-19 impacted businesses, there are common threads in how our podcast guests successfully navigated it. In this episode, we summarize and discuss COVID-19's impact on our guests' businesses and how they adapted. We reveal the importance of keeping cash in your business and focusing on...
2022-11-0825 minTraversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 17 - Starting a Marketing Business with John SmiddyJohn Smiddy is the Founder and Managing Partner of LeadPlan Marketing, an agency that helps entrepreneurs reach a larger audience so they can be more successful with their business by putting their client's best interests first and making each and everyone a fan for life. John has helped market and scale over 200 companies in various industries over the past 10 years. He is the host of "The Marketing Fundamentals Podcast" and the creator of the "5 Pillars of Sales Conversions" formula used at LeadPlan Marketing. John joins me today to discuss his entrepreneurial journey from a budding...
2022-09-2745 minTraversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 16 - Developing a Resort in Michigan with Mitchell BlueMitchell Blue is a commercial insurance agent and co-developer of Lakemore Resort, a high-quality luxury resort located west of the Arbutus Lake in Michigan. Lakemore Resort opened its phase 1 in the summer of 2020 and has since opened its doors as a year-round weekly rental resort that serves as the perfect home base for guests interested in retreats, wine tours, color tours, downhill skiing, holiday stays, and snowmobiling. Mitchell joins me today to discuss his experience and what he learned from developing a resort during the COVID-19 pandemic. He describes the amenities Lakemore Resort offers and...
2022-09-0640 minTraversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 15 - Designing the World with Mark VanderKlippMark VanderKlipp is an experience and systems designer who has been working in human-centered graphic design for over three decades. He is the Co-founder of The Adjacency—a systems strategy and design consultancy—and the Senior Performance Experience Design Consultant at TiER1 Performance. Mark was also the Founding Partner of Connect_CX and President of Corbin Design, an organization he worked with for more than 20 years. Mark holds a Bachelor's in Fine Arts, Graphic Design from the University of Michigan. Mark joins us today to discuss human-centered graphic design and the role of design in the...
2022-08-2351 minTraversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 14 - The Value of Cultivating Solid Relationships with David HagueDavid Hague is a market owner at Nelligan Associates, an elite consulting firm that helps brokers and consultants navigate ancillary benefits with confidence, expertise, and efficiency. Dave has over 16 years of experience in the group insurance industry, 14 of which he spent at The Hartford as the Senior Regional Account Executive. At The Hartford, Dave earned several accolades—including National Disability Sales Leader and Regional Sales Leader—while being a regular qualifier to the Honors Conference. Dave holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Management from Rochester University. Dave joins me today to discuss how cultivating relationships with...
2022-08-0938 minTraversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 13 - Being a Business Owner and Revenue Generator with Geoffrey HarrisGeoffrey Harris is the Vice President of Medicare Sales at Michigan Planners, a full-service insurance agency specializing in employer group benefits. For over 60 years, Michigan Planners has assisted groups and individual customers with unparalleled service. Geoffrey graduated from Northern Michigan University with a degree in Business Administration. He has been serving in the insurance and financial services industry for over four decades and has been involved in every layer of business ownership from start-up to exit. He worked as a financial representative for Northwestern Mutual for over 25 years before founding Harris Insurance Agency, an insurance firm he founded and...
2022-07-2639 minTraversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 12 - Behind a Successful Private Medical Practice with Dr. James McClellanDr. James McClellan is the Owner and President of Bayside Allergy, a medical practice committed to finding the best treatments for patients' allergy, asthma, and immunology needs. James specializes in the treatment of various disorders involving the immune system, including types of allergies and immunologic diseases. He was board certified by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology and is a member of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. James completed his medical school and training at St. Louis University School of Medicine Hospital and has been practicing medicine in Traverse City since 1999. ...
2022-07-1254 minTraversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 11 - An Inside Look at the TreMonte Brand with Melissa Niedzielski and Bridget ThoresonToday I am joined by Melissa Niedzielski and Bridget Thoreson. Melissa is the Operations Manager of TreMonte Financial Consultants and Accountant at TreMonte Tax Solutions. Bridget is the Operations Administrator at TreMonte Financial Consultants. While we may share an office from Monday to Friday, Melissa and Bridget join me today to discuss the TreMonte brand, our history, and services. We'll take a look at what led me to leave the national firm where I'd been working for twelve years to create TreMonte Financial Consultants back in 2018. You'll hear us describe the...
2022-06-1424 minTraversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 10 - Creating a Community-Driven Business with Adam McQueenAdam McQueen is the Founder and Owner of SkĂĄl Beer Hall, a modern interpretation of the Viking mead hall based in Seattle's Ballard neighborhood. Before founding SkĂĄl Beer Hall, Adam was a customer engagement expert with over 12 years of experience working in brewery and agency settings. He served as the Director of Customer Engagement of Enjoy Beer, the Digital Marketing Director of Harpoon Brewery, and the Director of Media of Digital Influence Group. Adam graduated from the Stephen M. Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan, where he earned his Bachelor's degree in Business. ...
2022-05-2448 minTraversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 9 - Franchise Ownership and Business Valuation with Aaron KricherAaron Kricher is the Founder of ARK Valuation Consultants, a business valuation firm dedicated to providing affordable and customizable business valuations tailored to clients' needs. With over two decades of experience in human resources and finance in the healthcare industry, Aaron is an expert in business valuations for small and medium-sized companies. In 2020, Aaron purchased the Saginaw staffing branch of Interim Healthcare, and currently serves as its President and CEO. Aaron joins us today to discuss franchise ownership and business acquisition. He explains what "company synergy" means and outlines the factors he considers when acquiring or partnering...
2022-05-1042 minTraversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 8 - Navigating the COVID-19 Pandemic as a Tour & Transportation Company with Jeff JoslinJeff Joslin is the Founder and Owner of JJ's Just 1 More Northern Michigan Tour, a tour operator and transportation services company. After receiving his degree in Business Marketing and Management from the University of Tennessee at Martin, Jeff spent seven years in the supply chain industry working for Plastech Engineering and Johnson Controls. In 2010, Jeff returned to North Michigan and worked in the oil and gas industry until 2018. Jeff joins us today to discuss what it takes to run a tour company during the COVID-19 pandemic. He shares his background and discusses the value of being a...
2022-04-2626 minTraversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 7 - What Drives a Successful Jewelry Business with Jeff GuntzvillerJeff Guntzviller is the General Manager of Miner's North Jewelers, a specialized jewelry store in Traverse City, Michigan. Established in 1975 as a rock shop by Wayne and Beth Guntzviller, Miner's North Jewelers is dedicated to providing the ultimate jewelry experience to every customer. Jeff began working full-time after he graduated from Western Michigan University in 2010. He later continued his education at the Gemological Institute of America to become a graduate gemologist. As the store's General Manager, Jeff envisions Miner's North Jewelers as the leading jewelry store and diamond destination in Northern Michigan. Jeff joins us today to...
2022-04-1237 minTraversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 6 - Advocating for Employees and their Wellbeing with Jake KaberleJacob Kaberle is the owner of Burritt's Fresh Markets, the premiere specialty meat market in Traverse City, Michigan. Jake spent several years serving in managerial roles for several businesses, including Boone's Long Lake Inn, where he worked for over 15 years. In 2012, he launched his own IT support company, Kaberle Consulting, where he helped individuals and businesses find solutions to their most simple and complex technology challenges, including Windows and Apple support, Smart TV integration, and developing cloud-based and local support backups. Jake graduated from Michigan State University and currently serves on the Board of North Manitou Light Keepers in...
2022-03-2238 minTraversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 5 - Compensating and Treating Employees Well with Andrea HolcombAndrea Holcomb is the owner and CEO of Extreme Cleaning Solutions, a commercial cleaning company in Traverse City, Michigan. For over 15 years, Andrea and the Extreme Cleaning Solutions team has been dedicated to providing superior services to local businesses of Grand Traverse County and its surrounding areas. The company offers a variety of services and provides bi-weekly cleaning and maintenance. Extreme Cleaning Solutions is licensed, insured, and compliant with MIOSHA safety standards and is a proud member of the Home Builders Association and Builders Exchange of NW Michigan. Andrea joins us today to discuss managing and operating...
2022-03-0829 minTraversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 4 - Marketing & Market Trends in the Real Estate Industry with Matt HodgesMatt Hodges is the Managing Broker and Owner of Kultura Real Estate. With over 16 years of experience, he specializes in residential listings and purchases in the greater Grand Traverse region. Matt is an industry leader, currently serving as a Director on the Michigan Association of Realtors Board of Directors. Matt has also served on Aspire North Realtors Board of Directors, the local association for over 4 years and was honored as board president in 2022. In addition to his work at Kultura Real Estate, Matt is a US Navy veteran who is passionate about helping his community. Matt joins...
2022-02-2244 minTraversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 3 - Building an Exceptional Company Culture with Ron HarrisRon Harris is the Founder and Managing Partner of Harris Group CPAs, a full-service accounting firm dedicated to providing businesses and individuals with quality and innovative accounting, tax, and financial services. Ron completed his degree in Accounting at Central Michigan University and has more than 20 years of experience as a business owner. Together with his team at Harris Group CPAs, Ron believes in supporting their clients' prosperity and peace of mind by expertly managing their financial affairs. Ron joins me today to discuss what makes a successful business. He explains how he pre-qualifies his clients and describes...
2022-02-0832 minTraversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 2 - A Superior Marketing Strategy with Andrew GoreckiDr. Andrew Gorecki is the Founder of the award-winning clinic, Superior Physical Therapy, and the author of The Truth About Lower Back Pain. He is a highly-regarded physical therapist dedicated to helping people who struggle with physical pain and has delivered over 400 speeches and seminars to individuals who live with chronic back pain. In 2018, Superior Physical Therapy was the recipient of the Hagerty Small Business of the Year Award and was named the 2018 Red Hot Best Physical Therapy Clinic. They also won the Simply The Best award in 2020. Andrew joins me today to share his advice on...
2022-01-2532 minTraversing EntrepreneurshipEpisode 1 - Understanding the Promotional and Brand Merchandise Industry with Jake BaldridgeJake Baldridge is the Founder and CEO of The Baldridge Group, a boutique, full-service sales agency that helps innovative brands gain the market share they deserve. Jake served as the Chief Strategy Officer of SunFrog Wholesale for over a decade prior to founding The Baldridge Group. Before his entry into the promotional merchandise industry, Jake worked in institutional finance and hedge funds. He served as a Financial Advisor for Merrill Lynch, the Managing Director of Clear Alpha, and a Senior Analyst for Cole Partners Asset Management. Jake joins me today to discuss how his experience in hedge...
2022-01-1144 min