Shows
Dr. James Beckett: Sports Card Insights1277 - Hobby Career Inquiries, with Greg Sobocinski, Part 2
Dr. Beckett discusses Greg's potential fit with CommC, the importance of loyalty programs, and the evolving landscape of the sports card industry. They cover key qualities sought by hobby companies, the significance of customer experience, and strategies for leveraging store inventories effectively.
00:44 ComC Loyalty Program Discussion
02:23 Job Application Insights and Advice
04:20 Industry Trends and Collector Experience
08:08 CommC's Market Position and Strategy
09:56 Challenges and Opportunities for Card Shops
2024-09-2314 minDr. James Beckett: Sports Card Insights1273 - Hobby Career Inquiries, with Greg Sobocinski
Dr. Beckett discusses the job market within the sports card industry with Greg Sobocinski. They dive into the importance of having hobby insights, the benefits of consultation roles, and valuable tips for distinguishable resumes and interview strategies. Dr. Beckett emphasizes the value of practical experience, creativity, and specific problem-solving skills over extensive credentials.
00:22 Greg's Application to Com C
01:34 Consultation and Career Advice
02:17 Challenges in the Job Market
02:56 Importance of Hobby Insight
08:01 Diversity and Inclusion in the Industry
10:26 Hiring Philosophy and Personal Stories
2024-09-1314 min
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 31 - Clint Weiler: Fun DungeonTune in to Episode 31 with Clint Weiler of Fun Dungeon. We started this conversation in the dungeon surrounded by the sights and sounds of 80s and 90s arcade games. We chat about Clint’s background in the music, entertainment, and gaming business. It was these endeavors that allow Clint to keep one foot in the now and the other planted firmly in childhood nostalgia. We touch on all things arcade games, nostalgia, and bringing a true third-place alive for people. We talk about how entrepreneurial endeavors can start bit by bit, until they eventually lead to a launch. We al...2024-03-2650 min
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 30 - Raegan Kelly: Better For AllTune in to Episode 30 with Raegan Kelly of Better For All. We touch on Raegan’s background in the film industry and how her side side quest became her main journey. Better For All looks to fill the void in the sustainability industry with a solution to the many problems in the waste management and recycling industry. There are ideals in these arenas, but what happens when things inevitably get off this path? Better For All creates compostable cups that are made out of a bio-plastic. In a sea of people looking at waste management, maybe the age-old compost bi...2024-03-0656 min
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 29 - Tyler Kropp: HydroPower Exterior CleaningTune in to Episode 29 with Tyler Kropp of HydroPower Exterior Cleaning. We hit on his background and entry into the home services industry as well as the story of how he got his first gig. We also dive head first into the process of scaling a business like this with zero outside capital and the concept of heavily using the resources readily available to us. We touch on all the services they offer as well as how new offerings enter the mix and dovetail into current offerings. We chat about the dilemma of a college education, Shark Tank, marketing...2024-01-241h 17
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 28 - Tom Nicholls: "Tom of All Trades"Tune in to Episode 28 with Tom Nicholls, or “Tom of All Trades.” This name is appropriate for a few reasons. Tom is fully employed in terms of receiving a W2 income, but also has several side hustles, which compliment and round out the legs of his proverbial stool. While earning a full time income at Boeing, Tom also has his own remodeling company, does home flipping, and dabbles quite a bit in the market. The list goes on. Our conversation is something that is a huge topic for people. The ability to have a primary income generator and then one...2024-01-061h 48
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 27 - Stephen Tuck: Anglo American ToolsTune in to Episode 27 with Stephen Tuck of Anglo American Tools. Anglo American is a wholesaler in the business of the finest European hand tools. Listen to our chat about his growing up in England and early dreams of becoming a professional soccer player. He learned, however, that he was destined for another path. We dive into him being a second generation business owner and working his way up through the company, by working in various different roles. We talk about international business issues that can arise, wholesaler/distributor relationships, and establishing a business with the principles of hard...2023-11-291h 30
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 26 - Shea Roggio: Soko BagTune in to Episode 26 with Shea Roggio of Soko Bag. This podcast was recorded while sitting in the future home of Soko Bag that is currently covered in dust and tools. We chat about the process behind starting a restaurant. We dive into the importance of market research, dialed-in recipes, and dealing with local government and municipalities. We also chat about the shifting timeline that is invariably involved when dealing with construction projects. Soko Bag is bringing Korean Fried Chicken to Phoenixville as well as the South Korean culture that includes all things beer, chicken, and sports. Calling all...2023-10-251h 34
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 25 - Biba Vernon: Beauty By BibaTune in to Episode 25 with Biba Vernon of Beauty By Biba. Biba has been in the skin therapy and beauty scene for 20+ years. She has worked in salons in New York, Los Angeles, and Philadelphia before embarking on the adventure of starting her own. Hear all about how she made the transition from working for other salons to making her own a reality. Hear all about the lessons she learned in those venues and how they translate to the improved service she now provides. We talk all things business, bloody marys, skin therapy, growth and expansion, and the customer...2023-10-181h 35
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 24 - Gail Warner: Bridge Street ChocolatesTune in to Episode 24 with Gail Warner of Bridge Street Chocolates. Gail is a lifelong lover of chocolate. In fact, she knew she would open a chocolate shop over 30 years ago. In this conversation I had the chance to unwrap some of her wonderful story from its beginnings to the stronghold that it is in the community today. We talk all things business, port-wine, chocolate, truffles, pairings, etc. We talk about the process of making chocolate as well as the process of running a business. We chat about the many hats businesses owners wear and the crucial pivot points...2023-08-161h 07
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 23 - Rob Lawless: Rob's 10k FriendsTune in to Episode 23 with Rob Lawless of Rob’s 10k Friends. Rob has a lot of friends and that number is growing. This is conversation 5698 in Rob’s journey. Originally from Norristown, PA, Rob has always been an outgoing guy, and this project puts him even more at home. We chat about what the project is, the lessons he has learned, some of the most striking conversations, and what he is planning after he reaches his goal. Rob says that the thing he has learned most succinctly is that everyone is just trying to do the best they can...2023-06-301h 51
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 22 - Drew Farnese: Revamp 365Tune in to Episode 22 with Drew Farnese of Revamp 365, a company that purchases real estate properties that have potential to be fixed up and flipped or rented out. Their specialty is in helping sellers that may not be able to sell in traditional ways. We start with a history of Drew’s entrance into the real estate world. We meander through a bunch of real estate topics, touch on marketing, growth, AI, and much more. We also get into a cool conversation about the age old advice of “following your passion” and our thoughts on this. Grab your favorite beverag...2023-05-171h 23
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 21 - Derek "Ducky" Ryan: Keller WilliamsTune in to Episode 21 with Derek “Ducky” Ryan, real estate agent with Keller Williams. We touch on a bunch of topics including building a pipeline of business as a self-employed individual. We discuss the how behind fostering a “bring home what you kill” mentality. We also touch on the idea that sales is overrated and that most people would generally do better by developing the heart of a servant instead. We chat about building out business processes and developing a client service model. He explains the importance of knowing what you know, what you don't know, and knowing the differen2023-05-101h 26
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 20 - Lori Colasanti: The Job Exchange AssociatesTune in to Episode 20 with Lori Colasanti of The Job Exchange Associates, a full-service staffing agency which has been matching businesses with talent for over 25 years. Their specialty is recruiting talent in the fields of accounting, administrative support, customer support, and human resources. We chat about the origin story of how she got into the staffing space and well as how she has adjusted to the market over the years. We touch on the current job economy as well as her outlook on the future. We touch on business scaling, growth, and pivot points. We also talk about technology...2023-04-051h 08
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 19 - Deepa Lal & Laurin Dorman: Stokelan Estate WineryTune in to Episode 19 with Deepa Lal and Laurin Dorman of Stokelan Estate Winery. We chat about the hard work involved in building a business with the understanding that this “struggle” is a good thing. We dive into some of the wines themselves with Laurin Dorman, who is Stokelan’s general manager and coordinator of chaos. Laurin has a background in the beverage industry and is also a sommelier. We touch on all things wine, marketing, business as well as strategy on how to make a statement and give your business that “wow” factor. In other words, how to make the i...2023-03-291h 19
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 18 - Vincent Jacobbi: TogronisTune in to Episode 18 with Vincent Jacobbi of Togronis, a ready-to-drink craft cocktail company that focuses on the Negroni. We talk about Vincent’s background growing up in the restaurant business, his experience in various sales roles over the years, and how his experiences have led to where he is now. We touch on the future of the beverage world, industry trends, and the cute can that is impossible to turn down. "Togronis was conceptualized amidst the global pandemic, when bars and restaurants had to get creative and with looser regulations, started selling drinks to go. Which brought up an...2023-03-0746 min
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 17 - Chuck Garrity: Death of the Fox Brewing CompanyTune in to Episode 17 with Chuck Garrity of Death of the Fox Brewing Company. Death of the Fox is a local brewery, coffee house, and coffee roastery, the first and only one of its kind in the state of NJ. We talk about Chuck’s background in the heathcare industry, the similarities between coffee and beer culture, and the idea of a “third place.” We touch on his life as a home brewer and eventual transition into the beverage industry full-time. Furthermore, we talk about the regulation roadblocks that the NJ ABC has imposed upon NJ breweries and what they a...2023-01-111h 16
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 16 - Jason Shoff: Mill Creek ApiaryTune in to Episode 16 with Jason Shoff of Mill Creek Apiary, a local bee keeping operation and manufacturer of exquisite bee products. We discuss some of the following: What is an apiary? Why is honey a superfood? Why are honey-related products a good business model? We also talk about the feelings associated with the multi-faceted life of a business owner. We touch on how sometimes simplification and paring back is needed before true business growth can happen. We sip on some delicious mead and talk about all of these things and more!2022-11-301h 46
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 15 - Bill Butrymowicz: Seaview BeverageTune in to Episode 15 with Bill Butrymowicz of Seaview Beverage, a beverage distribution company in South Jersey. We talk about his entry into the business started by his dad's entrepreneurial spirit. What started as taking a chance on an up and coming brand, has turned into a great business decision. We talk about the beverage industry as a whole and changes over the years, including the rise in popularity of health-related drinks as opposed to those that are sugar-filled. We discuss how to treat customers and how to make them come back for more. We also touch on the t...2022-11-241h 13
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 14 - Ben Roberts III: Ben's ShineTune in to Episode 14 with Ben Roberts III of Ben's Shine, a shoeshine business. We talk about his upbringing and early entry into the world of business development. We talk about family dynamics and how sometimes things that seem unfair or not beneficial, actually turn out to be in our benefit. We sip on some Grand Marnier and touch on client acquisition in ways that might seem traditionally "un-business-like." We also talk about building a community around a product or service and how relationships and experience will keep clients coming back around.2022-09-211h 44
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 13 - Marc Brookland: SEOLocaleTune in to Episode 13 with Marc Brookland of SEOLocale. We dive into his college career and dissatisfaction with his path at the time. We talk about the topic of luck in business as well as taking advantage of opportunities that present themselves. We explore the world of digital marketing ranging to everything from web design to search engine optimization (SEO) as well as paid ad campaigns and email marketing. We also talk about forming a cohesive strategy and what works best for certain industry segments. We chat about all of this while sipping on some Dogfishhead 60-Minute IPA, one...2022-09-141h 24
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 12 - Anthony Parenti: Omnia Basketball AcademyTune in to Episode 12 with Anthony Parenti of Omnia Basketball Academy. We dive into his early upbringing, career in teaching, and his new venture, Omnia Basketball Academy. We examine the mindset of uncertainty and procrastination of business owners, emphasize the importance of learning from mistakes to create a smoother path going forward, and converse about the importance of courage and encouragement from others in the process of building a movement. We also talk about his vision beyond basketball for Omnia. Always Forward.2022-08-171h 08
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 11 - Rob Romarino: Sentry EquipmentTune in to Episode 11 with Rob Romarino of Sentry Equipment. We dive into his early ventures in the corporate world and his eventual transition into the family business. We take a look at the growth of a multi-faceted distribution, sales, consulting, and service company that serves all parts of the frozen dessert and frozen beverage landscape. They excel in bringing tasty treat equipment to the tri-state area and actively servicing their clients to help them bring the frozen desserts to us.2022-08-101h 09
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 10 - Maranda Burns & Bryan Jones: Peewee's Ice CreamTune in to Episode 10 with Maranda Burns and Bryan Jones of Peewee's Ice Cream. We dive into their backgrounds and their transition from local farmer's markets to opening a scoop shop. We pull back the curtain on the process of making ice cream and what a day in the life looks like for a retail and wholesale business. They specialize in both dairy and non-dairy ice cream, and have perhaps one of the most comprehensive offerings in both categories. Growing a business can sometimes be a rocky road, but it sure is sweet!2022-06-291h 33
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 9 - Jacquie Stilley: BodyLabTune in to Episode 9 with Jacquie Stilley of BodyLab. We dive into her background as an athletic trainer and how that transitioned into the business that she and her husband, Erik, run today. We also talk all types of athletic training tech and touch on the anticipation of hiring your first employees.2022-06-221h 17
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 8 - Lloyd Bashkin: Lloyd Scott & CompanyTune in to Episode 8 with Lloyd Bashkin, CEO of Lloyd Scott & Company. We dive into his successful work as a business consultant-coach helping companies reach their fullest potential. We walk through solutions to the biggest obstacles businesses face as it relates to growth. We explore the process of optimizing the market’s brand perception of your business and the how to adjust as markets inevitably shift over time. We explore Lloyd’s unusual background including his connection to and conversations with the Grateful Dead about joining the band after Jerry Garcia’s passing.2022-06-151h 28
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 7 - Theresa Slater: Empire Interpreting ServiceTune in to Episode 7 with Theresa Slater of Empire Interpreting Service. We dive into her background, how to identify what opportunity looks like, and how to continually innovate. We also talk about "getting over the hump" in regards to starting a business, and then the importance of looking to your employees for business innovation. 2022-05-251h 13
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 6 - John Ochipinti: Liberty Displays & Exhibits + On The Scene, Inc.Tune in to Episode 6 with John Ochipinti of Liberty Display & Exhibits and On The Scene, Inc. We dive into his beginnings of working in the manufacturing field, his dropping out of college, and his movement into opportunities made apparent by his clients. Today, John and his team design, build, and deliver some of the most incredible displays and exhibits for some very recognizable brands.2022-05-181h 16
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 5 - Craig Coccaro: Game On! ArcadeTune in to Episode 5 with Craig Coccaro of Game On! Arcade. We dive into his transition from the corporate world into something more sustainable. We talk about getting back to the basics in deciding which direction to go, hiring processes, and building a team to compliment your skills. 2022-05-111h 22
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 4 - Mike Lees: Lunacy Brewing CompanyIn Episode 4, with Mike Lees of Lunacy Brewing Company, we dive into his craft beer beginnings, the process and adventure of opening and running a craft brewery, and the vision for the brewery going forward. We also talk all things beer and get into some pretty cool projects they have in the works. We also touch on how beer is not just about beer, but also about the people. 2022-05-041h 16
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 3 - Aaron Diamond: Trainwreck DistilleryIn this episode we talk to guest Aaron Diamond in his journey of building Trainwreck, the first legal craft distillery in Burlington County, NJ since prohibition. We also talk about his vision for the future of spirits and craft cocktails.2022-04-271h 25
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 2 - Sean Bell: Multi-Housing DepotIn this episode we talk to guest Sean Bell in his joining the family business and the vision to create the ideal living environment. 2022-04-201h 39
Leverage & BeverageEpisode 1 - Adam Steele: Steele's Signature PoolsIn this episode we talk to guest Adam Steele in his journey from landscaper to luxury pool designer. 2022-04-131h 11
Leverage & BeverageTrailerA podcast about the trials and tribulations of building, growing, and nurturing businesses and hobbies. We will hear stories and talk about the strategy behind the process, all while sipping on some of our favorite beverages. The goal of this podcast is to create leverage and learn about how to get from where you are to where you want to go.2021-12-3104 min