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Jean Moncrieff

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The Freedom Experience with Jean Moncrieff
The Freedom Experience with Jean Moncrieff#62 The Truth About Work, Burnout, and Success | Meghan French Dunbar“Success” isn’t always what it seems — especially when the cost is burnout, misalignment, and a broken workplace culture. Meghan French Dunbar is an entrepreneur, speaker, and author of This Isn’t Working: How Working Women Can Overcome Stress, Guilt, and Overload to Find True Success. As the co-founder and former CEO of Conscious Company Magazine, Meghan interviewed over 1,000 of the world’s most values-driven business leaders, only to find herself facing the very burnout she was trying to solve. In this episode, Meghan and Jean unpack the systemic causes of burnout and why it’s not an indiv...
2025-09-0749 minThe Evolution Partners
The Evolution PartnersE65 | Small Giants community with Jean MoncrieffPutting people at the centre of business is the hallmark of the Small Giants community – leaders who choose to be great instead of big. Jean Moncrieff, who stepped into the role of community head in 2025, shares how values-driven leadership transformed his own business and why it continues to shape a global network of purpose-led entrepreneurs.  A longtime member turned coach, Jean discusses the origin of Small Giants, the importance of community, and how businesses are embracing alternative ownership models like ESOPs and employee ownership trusts. He explains the power of vulnerability, the impact of intentional leadership, and how...
2025-08-3143 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposePaul Spiegelman: From Small Giants to Kintsugi VillageThis is a very special episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast. For the first time, longtime host Paul Spiegelman takes the guest seat as he officially passes the torch to new host, Jean Moncrieff. Paul reflects on his transition from leading the Small Giants Community to launching Kintsugi Village, a nonprofit in Detroit dedicated to community, relationships, and innovative education. He and Jean discuss why relationships are everything in business and life, what it means to prepare the next generation of leaders, and how impact is best measured through stories, not just numbers. Together...
2025-08-1954 minIndependence by Design™
Independence by Design™#450: Jean Moncrieff | Letting Go, Leading with Values, and Building a Company That LastsWhat does it actually mean to build a company that lasts? Watch on YouTube Not just one that grows. Not just one that sells. But one that thrives beyond the founder—because it was built with values at the core.  In this episode, I’m joined by Jean Moncrieff, an entrepreneur, coach, and the new leader of the Small Giants Community, for a conversation about identity, legacy, and the tension every owner eventually faces: when and how to let go.  We unpack the deeper reason Small Giants exists: to support leaders who wan...
2025-07-171h 13The Freedom Experience with Jean Moncrieff
The Freedom Experience with Jean MoncrieffEpisode 37: Mastering the Business Exit Journey with Bruce EckfeldtIn this episode of The Freedom Experience, Jean Moncrieff speaks with Bruce Eckfeldt, a seasoned entrepreneur, coach, and expert in agile development and strategic growth. Bruce shares his unconventional journey from architecture to founding a successful agile software development company and the valuable lessons he learned along the way. This conversation dives deep into the critical elements of scaling a business, preparing for an exit, and overcoming the personal challenges that often accompany these transitions. Bruce offers actionable insights into aligning business goals with personal values, building a sellable business, and navigating life after an exit. Whether...
2025-01-1255 minThe Freedom Experience with Jean Moncrieff
The Freedom Experience with Jean MoncrieffEpisode 35 - Breaking Free from the CEO Doom Loop: Purpose, Leadership, and MomentumIn this solo episode of The Freedom Experience®, host Jean Moncrieff reflects on key insights from past conversations and shares strategies for business owners to regain momentum as the new year approaches. Jean delves into three critical areas: escaping the CEO Doom Loop, the transformative power of purpose, and building high-performing leadership teams. With actionable advice and real-world examples, this episode equips entrepreneurs to break free from stagnation and lead their businesses with clarity and intention. 🎥 Watch this episode on YouTube, and don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE! Key Topics Covered: CEO Doom Loop: How...
2024-12-2941 minIndependence by Design™
Independence by Design™#419: From Hustle to Freedom: How to Build a Business That Runs Without You with Jean MoncrieffWhat happens when the business you thought would set you free starts to feel like a prison? In this episode of Independence by Design™, I sit down with Jean Moncreiff, a seasoned entrepreneur turned coach, to unpack the hard lessons he learned scaling businesses, juggling cash flow nightmares, and realizing he was building a job, not independence. Watch on YouTube Jean’s story is packed with insights for owner-operators who feel stuck in the daily grind, questioning if all the hustle is worth it. We dive into his pivotal realization that revenue growth alone doesn...
2024-12-121h 08The Freedom Experience with Jean Moncrieff
The Freedom Experience with Jean MoncrieffEpisode 32 - How I Turned Chaos into a $10 Million Success Story with Carl SaundersIn this episode of The Freedom Experience, I sit down with Carl Saunders, the founder of VORUM, a pioneer in prosthetic and orthotic technology. Carl shares his journey from bootstrapping his business to scaling it into a global impact player. We discuss the lessons he learned from navigating growth plateaus, the importance of purpose-driven leadership, and how adopting systems like Metronomics transformed his business. Our conversation also touches on the decision to sell the company, the impact of distraction on business, and the necessity of building a strong sales team. Ultimately, Carl emphasizes the importance of growth and the wi...
2024-12-081h 09Tip Top - Grow Up Your Business With Metronomics
Tip Top - Grow Up Your Business With MetronomicsUnlocking Intentional Growth: A Guide for Business Owners with Jean Moncrieff Tip Top - Grow Up Your Business with Metronomics, hosted by Shannon Susko, welcomes Jean Moncrieff for an inspiring conversation about entrepreneurship and intentional business growth. In this episode, Jean dives into the highs and lows of building a business, sharing insights on leadership, team dynamics, and learning from failures. The conversation covers essential topics every entrepreneur faces, from navigating change and fostering trust to leveraging AI in business coaching. Jean also offers advice on exit strategies and setting future goals that drive long-term growth. Tune in for valuable insights from industry experts! Full episode here: https://youtu.be...
2024-10-2839 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeJean Pitzo: Building a Culture of Conscious IntelligenceOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman speaks with Jean Pitzo, CEO of Ace Metal Crafts, a stainless steel fabrication company. Jean is also a mentor in the Small Giants Sounding Board program.   In the 1980s, Jean’s entrepreneurial father bought a metal fabricating business. And even though her brothers had no interest in joining the family business, Jean leapt at the opportunity to work with her father. Six years later, Jean and her sister, Mary, bought the company. It continues to have that family business spirit, as Jean’s daugh...
2024-01-0746 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeLauren Adams: Financials with HeartOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman speaks with Lauren Adams, the Director of Operations at the Center for Financial Planning, a privately held wealth management firm. Lauren has always had a strong work ethic that combines with a passion for working towards a greater good. Even as she pursued education, and then a career, in financials, she wasn’t interested in the large public firms and the Wall Street culture. Rather, she focused on finding a work environment that fit her mission of working towards a greater purpose. And in the tw...
2023-01-2940 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeTaylor Vanden Hoek: Problem-Solving Through ArtOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman speaks with Taylor Vanden Hoek, a delivery lead at Atomic Object, a custom software consultancy. Along with one of her colleagues, Taylor is currently working towards opening and managing Atomic Object’s fourth office, which will be located in Raleigh, NC.  From a young age, Taylor had a love for art, largely thanks to her dad’s own passion for creativity. But it wasn’t until her senior year in high school, when she enrolled in a graphic design program at a tech center, when she rea...
2022-10-1642 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeDevyn Bachman: On the Road AgainOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman speaks with Devyn Bachman, Vice President of Research at John Burns Real Estate Consulting.  Devyn grew up surrounded by the entrepreneurial spirit. While her parents ran a 20-seat hair salon in Colorado, Devyn grew to love the idea of creating something on your own, but also to respect the relentless hard work that it takes to make a business a success.  Devyn was the first in her family to attend college, and, for the majority of her academic career, was also a dancer on...
2022-09-2736 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeLauren Eckhardt: ”You don’t have to be a celebrity to share your life journey.”On this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman speaks with Lauren Eckhardt, founder and CEO of Burning Soul Collective.  Lauren grew up in rural Missouri with plenty of space to let her imagination roam. She took a detour from her creativity in college, and began her career in Human Resources roles. And while she enjoyed certain aspects of HR, like identifying and celebrating individual’s strengths, her priorities shifted after the birth of her first child, and she knew she wanted to do something different. After a scary bout of covid in...
2022-08-2151 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeAaron Montgomery: Making Car Dealerships FunOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman speaks with Aaron Montgomery, the CEO of Montgomery Development Group, Co-Founder of CarLotz and author of Suspend Your Disbelief: Short Stories That Are Long On Wisdom.  Aaron grew up in Detroit, raised by his mother, as well as her large family. From them, he learned the value of education and stories, and even got a lifelong, prophecy-filling nickname: Mr. President. After going to a private high school thanks to a scholarship, and eventually Harvard Business School, Aaron recognizes that he’s benefited from exp...
2022-07-1147 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeHai Nguyen: The Amateur AficionadoOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman speaks with Hai Nguyen, Co-Founder and Head of Product at Text-Em-All, an automated call and text company.  For a man with such a calm, even presence, Hai’s life began with a lot of turbulence. When he was very young, and with the fall of Saigon, he and his family fled Vietnam. It was a dangerous journey to get to America, and one that took longer than anticipated, but fortunately, he and his family made it safely to Pennsylvania. While he only remembers the journey thr...
2022-06-1953 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeMassimo Backus: Finding Integrity Through VulnerabilityOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman speaks with Massimo Backus, Chief Coaching Officer of Massimo Backus Leadership.    Massimo’s path to leadership was not a straightforward one, and was heavily influenced by his struggles with dyslexia growing up. As he says, “that challenge both motivated me and put a chip on my shoulder.”   Despite having a supportive family, he felt “othered” in school, and so, understandably, his relationship with academia was fraught with resistance. After entering and then dropping out of college, he picked up several jobs...
2022-05-2251 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeValerie Webster: Learning Through the Ups and DownsOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Valerie Webster, President of HealthWorks, a Cincinnati based health and well-being company.    When Valerie first stepped into the role of president in a new company, she took it upon herself to meet with every employee for a one-to-one conversation within the first 30 days. For her, trust is one of the most important aspects of being a good leader and building a successful team.   Even though Valerie is still fairly new to her current position, she’s had a lon...
2022-04-2438 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeEric Rieger: Unpacking the PastOn this episode of the Growing With Purpose podcast, Paul Spiegelman talks to Eric Rieger, founder and CEO of WEBIT Services, a people-focused IT strategy, service, and support company based in Naperville, IL.    After working for other software companies with poor culture, Eric decided to take matters into his own hands and start his own company. 25 years later, WEBIT Services is a Better Business Bureau accredited company, and has made it onto the Inc. Best Workplaces list.   “There’s harmony and vision and unity with the leadership team, which then translates down to...
2022-03-2045 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeAndy Fowler: The Accidental EntrepreneurOn this episode of the Growing With Purpose podcast, Paul Spiegelman talks with Andy Fowler, CEO of Nutshell, an all-in-one CRM and email marketing platform based in Ann Arbor, MI.   “My trajectory in life was never to start a business, or even to lead a business,” says Andy. “I was always motivated by my own curiosity and making things, that’s what always made me tick.” This curiosity for learning was instilled in Andy at an early age. He was homeschooled by his mother all the way through high school, which gave him the flexibility to really di...
2022-02-2053 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeKate McCrea: The Sweet Side of LeadershipOn this episode of the Growing With Purpose podcast, Paul Spiegelman talks with Kate McCrea, CEO and “Chief Caramel Visionary” of McCrea’s, a quality candy confectioner. Kate is also a longstanding member of the Small Giants Community.  At a glance, Kate’s road may be a very windy one. From being an avid dancer as a child, to training as a scientist and living in places like remote Alaska to conduct fieldwork, to now being at the helm of a rapidly growing candy company, Kate has worn a lot of hats in her life. But to her, thes...
2022-01-3041 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeAngela Barbash: Empowerment Through Financial LiteracyOn this episode of the Growing With Purpose podcast, Paul Spiegelman talks with Angela Barbash, CEO of Revalue Investing, a values-based investment advisory firm.  She is also a current participant in the Small Giants Leadership Academy as well as a recipient of our inaugural LIFT scholarship. For Angela, all roads lead to making an impact. Growing up, she observed how her separated parents both struggled financially to navigate a society that didn’t allow them access to resources or knowledge. This, along with her love for math and the stories from her activist grandmother, Maria Elena Lucas, set...
2021-10-2746 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeMel Gravely: Reframing How We Think and Talk About RaceOn this episode of the Growing With Purpose podcast, Paul Spiegelman talks with Mel Gravely, majority owner and CEO of TriVersity Construction. He is also the author of nine books, including his most recent, Dear White Friend. As a self-proclaimed product of Affirmative Action, from an early age Mel understood not only that his presence as a black man in professional settings was met with negative perceptions, but also that the intentionality of inclusion offered him opportunities that the systems in this country would not have naturally led to. After a successful career at IBM, earning his...
2021-09-2756 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeConni Reed: From ”Un” to FunOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Conni Reed, founder and CEO of Consuela. Starting with a computer science degree, Conni had a steady career in the corporate tech world. But she was feeling uninspired, unhappy, and, in her own words, “I was pretty much just un.” After a self-proclaimed “early mid-life crisis at 35,” she left her job to start her own business. What began as making one-of-a-kind art in her garage has grown into a multi-million dollar company selling joyously colorful handbags, as well as the mission “make today ridiculous...
2021-08-2347 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeDrew Patrick: The Company Is Yours NowOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Drew Patrick, owner and CEO of Skidmore Studio in Detroit, Michigan. In March 2020, Drew also founded Michigan Fields, an online specialty market that delivers the best of Michigan food and beverage directly to Metro Detroit homes.   Drew's story is one of passion, resilience, and a feeling that all entrepreneurs can identify with: shit happens. On this episode, Paul sits down with Drew to delve into his winding road into entrepreneurship, which culminated in him becoming the owner of Skidmore Studio under the worst of all...
2021-07-1848 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeLeslie DeMent & Sabrina White: Dodgeball, Friendship, and Shonda RhimesOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Sabrina White, Head of People & Customer Experience at Text-Em-All, and Leslie DeMent, Managing Director at Tailwind. Sabrina and Leslie are graduates of the Small Giants Leadership Academy who found lifelong friendship in one another and with the other leaders in their class.   On this episode, Paul sits down with Sabrina and Leslie to dive into what makes their friendship so special. Sabrina and Leslie were in the same class of the Small Giants Leadership Academy, but they didn't really get to know one another un...
2021-06-1446 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeTorey Carter-Conneen: Our Work ContinuesOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Torey Carter-Conneen, CEO of the The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) and a graduate of the Small Giants Leadership Academy, to talk about his leadership journey, his experiences as a Black leader, and his perspective on the important role business can play in our nation's fight for racial justice. Like all of us, Torey and his colleagues at ASLA were deeply impacted by the murder of George Floyd last summer. "The 8 minutes and 46 seconds murder of George Floyd brought ASLA — and the wor...
2021-05-161h 06The Freedom Experience with Jean Moncrieff
The Freedom Experience with Jean MoncrieffWhy we procrastinate and how to beat it as you scale your businessProcrastination has plagued us since the dawn of time. In this episode, I share some insights on understanding why we procrastinate and tips for taming your procrastination demons. If you enjoy this episode and it inspired you in some way, I’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Take a screenshot of you listening on your device, post it to your Instagram Stories and tag me Jean, https://www.instagram.com/jean.moncrieff/ (@jean.moncrieff). To get my FREE Business Exit Strategy Guide, click https://jeanmoncrieff.kartra.com/page/exit-guide (here) right now! Haven’t left a re...
2021-05-1229 minThe Freedom Experience with Jean Moncrieff
The Freedom Experience with Jean MoncrieffHow Marketing Is Key To Your Exit StrategyWhen it comes time to sell your company, marketing will play a bigger role than you might suspect. In this episode, I share how marketing is key to your exit strategy and how it demonstrates the potential for scale to an acquirer. If you enjoy this episode and it inspired you in some way, I’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Take a screenshot of you listening on your device, post it to your Instagram Stories and tag me Jean, https://www.instagram.com/jean.moncrieff/ (@jean.moncrieff). To get my FREE Business Exit Strategy Gu...
2021-05-0521 minThe Freedom Experience with Jean Moncrieff
The Freedom Experience with Jean MoncrieffWhat To Think About When You Think About ExitingHaruki Murakami writes, “Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional”. If you aren’t careful, suffering can lead you to a premature exit. In this episode I reflect on some of the thoughts I’ve had since selling my business, and why you should conduct some thought experiments before selling too. If you enjoy this episode and it inspired you in some way, I’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Take a screenshot of you listening on your device, post it to your Instagram Stories and tag me Jean, https://www.instagram.com/jean.moncrieff/ (@jean.moncrieff...
2021-04-2815 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeColin Quinn: Every Leader Needs a Sounding BoardOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Colin Quinn, Founder/Co-Director at Be Positive in Edinburgh, Scotland. Be Positive is an IT services company that provides consulting, staffing, and training in the area of business analysis. Colin's role at Be Positive is the head of vision and strategy. Away from work, Colin is the Director of the Glasgow City Football Club, Glasgow's most successful women's football team. Colin's relationship with host Paul Spiegelman is a special one: the two are paired together in the Small Giants Sounding Board, a...
2021-04-2546 minThe Freedom Experience with Jean Moncrieff
The Freedom Experience with Jean MoncrieffYour Unique Ability Is Your Differentiator, And Your Company’s TooWith so many “me too” businesses out there, finding your ‘uniqueness’, has never been more important. It’s essential for building a sustainable competitive advantage and the foundation of a great business. In this episode, I share four simple frameworks to help you create some uniqueness in your business. If you enjoy this episode and it inspired you in some way, I’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Take a screenshot of you listening on your device, post it to your Instagram Stories and tag me Jean, https://www.instagram.com/jean.moncrieff/ (@jean.moncrieff). To get my FR...
2021-04-2126 minThe Freedom Experience with Jean Moncrieff
The Freedom Experience with Jean MoncrieffShould I use a broker to sell my business or go it alone?So, if you are thinking about selling your business. You’ve seen the websites for the big, national brokers, but you’ve also heard some horror stories from friends about their experiences. The right broker can make selling a business less painless, but you need to choose wisely… If you enjoy this episode and it inspired you in some way, I’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Take a screenshot of you listening on your device, post it to your Instagram Stories and tag me Jean, https://www.instagram.com/jean.moncrieff/ (@jean.moncrieff). To get m...
2021-04-1416 minThe Freedom Experience with Jean Moncrieff
The Freedom Experience with Jean MoncrieffStop Putting The Lead Generation Cart Before The Strategy HorseMost business owners I talk to recognize that the future of their business depends on a clear strategy, but equally, most of them can’t see the forest for the trees. In this episode, I share five ideas for simplifying your business and putting together a plan, so you can get back to the business of creating a lead generation system that consistently attracts your ideal client. If you enjoy this episode and it inspired you in some way, I’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Take a screenshot of you listening on your device, post...
2021-04-0714 minThe Freedom Experience with Jean Moncrieff
The Freedom Experience with Jean MoncrieffHow To Build A Sustainable Competitive AdvantageBuilding a sustainable competitive advantage for your business gives you a killer advantage in your chosen industry. In this episode, I talk about where most business owners get stuck and share techniques you can use to hone your competitive advantage...now and well into the future. If you enjoy this episode and it inspired you in some way, I’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Take a screenshot of you listening on your device, post it to your Instagram Stories and tag me Jean, https://www.instagram.com/jean.moncrieff/ (@jean.moncrieff). To get my...
2021-03-3121 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeBonus Mailbag with Mackey McNeill: How to Thrive, Not Just Survive This YearOn this bonus mailbag episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman answers listener questions all about small business finances with special guest Mackey McNeill, CPA, PFS, and Founder and CEO of the private business financial coaching firm, MACKEY. If the events of the last year taught us anything, it's that unexpected things happen and as business leaders, we need to be prepared for them. Right now, many leaders in the Small Giants Community are facing more questions than answers, especially when it comes to the economy and financial planning. That's why we’re...
2021-03-2845 minThe Freedom Experience with Jean Moncrieff
The Freedom Experience with Jean MoncrieffI Can't Rely On My People To Run My Business...What Should I Do?Any advice on how to make sure my business continues to run while I'm away? Sure, build a systems-dependent business. In this episode, I share a 7-step approach to building systems and implementing them in your business. If you enjoy this episode and it inspired you in some way, I’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Take a screenshot of you listening on your device, post it to your Instagram Stories and tag me Jean, https://www.instagram.com/jean.moncrieff/ (@jean.moncrieff). To get my FREE Business Exit Strategy Guide, click https://je...
2021-03-2417 minThe Freedom Experience with Jean Moncrieff
The Freedom Experience with Jean MoncrieffFour Strategies For Building Value In Your BusinessSo today's episode is about four magic strategies that can change everything in your business. I call them the CORE-4 (not very creative, I know). Anyway, these are four strategies you can focus on to increase your freedom and the value of your business.  If you enjoy this episode and it inspired you in some way, I’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Take a screenshot of you listening on your device, post it to your Instagram Stories and tag me Jean, https://www.instagram.com/jean.moncrieff/ (@jean.moncrieff). To get my FR...
2021-03-1714 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeJim Hume: The Harsh Wake-Up Call That Changed EverythingOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Jim Hume, Owner and Principal of Phire Group, a research and brand strategy firm in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Under Jim's leadership, Phire Group delivers complete research and brand strategy along with creative and comprehensive digital and traditional capabilities to uncover a brand’s full potential. Jim founded Phire Group when he was just twenty-six years old, and over the years Jim has done a complete 180 on his approach to leadership, business and life. After he was blindsided ten years ago by a multi...
2021-03-1452 minThe Freedom Experience with Jean Moncrieff
The Freedom Experience with Jean MoncrieffIn this episode, I tackle the question: How do you avoid an earnout. I was talking to the owner of an online gaming business the other day and one of his big concerns was: when we sell, how long will I have to work for the new owner, and how much of the deal value will get tied up in the earnout? In this episode, I answer those questions.In this episode, I tackle the question: How do you avoid an earnout. I was talking to the owner of an online gaming business the other day and one of his big concerns was: when we sell, how long will I have to work for the new owner, and how much of the deal value will get tied up in the earnout? In this episode, I answer those questions. If you enjoy this episode and it inspired you in some way, I’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Take a screenshot of you listening on yo...
2021-03-1012 minThe Freedom Experience with Jean Moncrieff
The Freedom Experience with Jean MoncrieffHow To Go From Owner to CEOHow do I go from owner-operator to CEO? How do I go from a one-man show to owning a company with a team capable of running the business without me? How do I transition from an adolescent business to a mature business? That's the question I answer in this week's episode. Hint: it begins with a plan... If you enjoy this episode and it inspired you in some way, I’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Take a screenshot of you listening on your device, post it to your Instagram Stories and tag me Je...
2021-03-0314 minThe Freedom Experience with Jean Moncrieff
The Freedom Experience with Jean MoncrieffHow To Build A Successful Leadership TeamBuilding a strong leadership team is one of the most important things you can do to drive up the value of your business. One of the biggest fears buyers have when buying a business is that they will effectively end up buying you. To remove yourself from the business, you need to build a leadership team that can run your business at an operational level and systematise your business as much as possible. If you enjoy this episode and it inspired you in some way, I’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Take a screenshot of...
2021-02-2415 minThe Freedom Experience with Jean Moncrieff
The Freedom Experience with Jean MoncrieffThe One Thing They Don't Teach You In Business SchoolYour relationship with your business plays a critical role in the value of your company. However, nurturing a positive relationship is not something they teach in business schools...or many other places for that matter. In this episode, I share the importance of having a positive, loving relationship with your business — particularly when you're at the end of your tether and feel like sailing off into the sunset. If you enjoy this episode and it inspired you in some way, I’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway. Take a screenshot of you listening on your devi...
2021-02-1716 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeKhalilah "KO" Olokunola: From the Block to the BoardroomOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Khalilah Olokunola, Chief People Officer at Tru Colors, a for-profit start up brewery owned & operated by active gang members with a social mission to unify and decrease gang violence across the country. KO was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. She spent much of her teens active on the streets of Brooklyn and Troy, New York with what many view as the cities’ most notorious street gangs — Bloods, Crips and Folks. She eventually faced the consequences of her activities and lost her name for...
2021-02-1446 minThe Freedom Experience with Jean Moncrieff
The Freedom Experience with Jean MoncrieffThe 1-Hour WorkweekWhat would have to be in place so that if you only have one hour a week to speak to someone in your business, in that hour you’re able to uncover enough about the business to know what’s working and what’s not working—and what’s needed to fix it and get it done through someone other than yourself?
2021-02-0915 minThe Freedom Experience with Jean Moncrieff
The Freedom Experience with Jean MoncrieffWhy Chasing Revenue Doesn't Increase Business Value (And What Does)Want to increase your business value? Well, there's gold hidden in your intangible assets. Most of us equate increasing business value with making more sales. But more deals into a rickety business is a recipe for disaster — especially if you're fighting fires on all fronts. In this episode, I'll show you where the gold lies... and help you create a healthier, more valuable business.
2021-02-0312 minThe Freedom Experience with Jean Moncrieff
The Freedom Experience with Jean MoncrieffDealing With Business Exit OverwhelmSwitching gears from chasing revenue to creating a valuable business can feel overwhelming. A positive mindset goes a long way to helping you cope with the overwhelm associated with preparing your business for an exit event. In this episode, I share some tips on dealing with overwhelm.
2021-01-2613 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeAri Weinzweig: While the World Gets Louder, Humility Can Quietly HelpOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Ari Weinzweig, co-founder of the Zingerman's community of businesses.  The Small Giants movement began in 2003 when author Bo Burlingham wrote an article for Inc. magazine dubbing Zingerman’s The Coolest Small Company in America. The idea to start a community for like-minded, purpose-driven business leaders took root from there, when a group of leaders gathered at Zingerman's deli to try its famous corned beef sandwiches and to see for themselves what made this small company so special.  In this conversation, hear Zinger...
2021-01-1749 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeJay Wilkinson: Fired as CEO of Your Own CompanyNote: This interview was recorded at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020. On this encore episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Jay Wilkinson, founder and CEO of Firespring, an inside-out marketing agency and Nebraska's first B Corp. Firespring is also a 2020 Forbes Small Giant. With a team of more than 200 employees, Jay spends most of his time working on the culture at Firespring and helping leaders in other companies become purpose-driven. But in the early 2000s, Jay experienced a pivotal moment in his life and career when...
2020-12-1354 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeBo Burlingham: What Makes a Company Great?On this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Bo Burlingham, author of the Small Giants book among many others, former executive editor of Inc. Magazine, a Forbes contributor, and co-founder of the Small Giants Community. When Bo Burlingham published Small Giants: Companies That Choose to Be Great Instead of Big, he didn't know he was starting a movement. In the years since, entrepreneurs around the world and from across industries have picked up the Small Giants book and had a lightbulb moment. Even more, these entrepreneurs felt a sense...
2020-11-071h 10Growing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeDelcie Bean: On a Mission to Make I.T. FunOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Delcie Bean, CEO of Paragus Strategic IT. Delcie Bean started the company that became Paragus when he was only 13 years old. Although he didn't flourish in the traditional school environment, he found great success in entrepreneurship at an incredibly young age. By his high school years, Delcie's business required an office space and employees of its own to meet client demand. Today, Paragus has become one of the most successful, fastest-growing IT firms in the region and was named a 2020 Forbes S...
2020-10-0848 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeElizabeth Glasbrenner: Can a Leader Care Too Much?On this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Elizabeth Glasbrenner, co-founder and President/CEO of Smiley Technologies, Inc. Smiley Technologies, Inc. (STI), is a group of entrepreneurial, service-centric software developers and support staff in Central Arkansas, with business practices and traditions that recall those who ushered in the first big wave of bank technology innovation a half century ago. Smiley Technologies is also a 2020 Forbes Small Giant: Best Small Companies in America. Although Elizabeth co-founded the business with her brother seventeen years ago, she never envisioned herself as CEO. A...
2020-09-1839 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeTravis Slisher Interviews Paul Spiegelman: Take Care of the Person In Front of YouOn a very special episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, the tables are turned and host Paul Spiegelman is in the hot seat. Small Giants Leadership Academy graduate Travis Slisher interviews Paul about his life journey and shares with Paul the impact of the Small Giants Scholarship Fund, which allowed him to embark on a journey to grow as a leader. Travis has a story that many emerging leaders can identify with: he believes in a different, more purposeful style of leadership but he often feels isolated in his beliefs. Where could he find...
2020-08-2851 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeLisa Wise: Empathy Is My EngineOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Lisa Wise, who leads Flock DC, a family of service companies with an innovative approach to real estate management and preservation.   Over the last 25 years, Lisa Wise’s professional experiences have all been anchored in empowering individuals as consumers, building stronger communities, and creating forward-thinking businesses. Growing up surrounded by love but short on resources, Lisa began seeking security by building businesses from a young age, starting with her first enterprise, The Sherlock Holmes Detective Agency in her parents' backyard toolshed.
2020-08-0346 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeJay Wilkinson: Leading with the Heart FirstNote: This interview was recorded at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020. On this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Jay Wilkinson, founder and CEO of Firespring, an inside-out marketing agency and Nebraska's first B Corp. Firespring is also a 2020 Forbes Small Giant. With a team of more than 200 employees, Jay spends most of his time working on the culture at Firespring and helping leaders in other companies become purpose-driven. But in the early 2000s, Jay experienced a pivotal moment in his life and career when he...
2020-07-1954 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeEmily Tetto: Tap Into Your Inner JourneyNote: This interview was recorded prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. On this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Emily Tetto, Vice President of Talent and Culture at Acceleration Partners. Emily is also a Small Giants Leadership Academy facilitator, lending her expertise on how to hire and onboard top talent to emerging purpose-driven leaders. Early in her career, Emily worked in event planning and management, but she's always had a passion for people. As she moved into talent development, Emily realized that company culture is an event in itself: it's...
2020-06-0745 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeJonathan Keyser: You Don't Have to Be Ruthless to WinNote: This episode was recorded in 2019, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States.    Jonathan Keyser is the founder and thought leader behind Keyser, the largest occupier services commercial real estate brokerage firm in Arizona. Through sheer determination and focus on selfless service, Jonathan is disrupting the commercial real estate (CRE) industry, and beyond.   A best-selling author, media contributor, and strong supporter of the Conscious Capitalism movement, Jonathan is here today to share his journey, mission, and selfless service approach to business. In his book and on this episode, You Don’t Have to be Ruthless to Win, Jonathan share...
2020-05-2942 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeBlair Kellison: Be Inspired to Be Like YouOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Blair Kellison, CEO of Traditional Medicinals, a mission-driven, organic and fair trade wellness tea company based in Sonoma County, California. Blair Kellison made the best decision in 1995 by taking a 70 percent pay cut to leave the corporate world and take a job at a mission-driven, vegetarian tea company. As a four-time non-founder CEO, Blair has a reputation for being able to go into companies and transition them from a traditional, command-and-control style of leadership to a collaborative, values-driven team approach. At...
2020-05-1745 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeCrisis Response: Take the Fear Out of the Workplace with Jack StackOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Jack Stack, Founder, President and CEO of SRC Holdings Corporation and a pioneer of the leadership model known as open-book management. The coronavirus pandemic has ushered in a new wave of fear and uncertainty: about our own health and the health of our loved ones, our safety, and our economic security. For entrepreneurs and business owners, there's tremendous pressure to make the right decisions to navigate this crisis successfully. In this candid conversation, Jack and Paul draw on their personal wisdom as purpose-driven...
2020-03-2951 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeTom Walter: "Change, Or We're Leaving"On this re-broadcast of the inaugural episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Tom Walter, serial entrepreneur and founder of Tasty Catering.  Tom is a founding member of the Small Giants Community and has served as a Small Giants Leadership Academy facilitator to share his expertise with emerging leaders in the Small Giants Community. Throughout his life, Tom was a painfully shy, introverted person. He never wanted to be a leader, but he found himself thrust into the role time and time again. Despite his best efforts to remain #2, Tom became an ent...
2020-02-1048 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeRaman Chadha: Smarter, Healthier LeadersOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Raman Chadha, founder of the Junto Institute. Raman is a Small Giants Leadership Academy facilitator who shares his expertise on emotional intelligence training with emerging leaders in the Small Giants Community. Most of us know that emotional intelligence is an important skill in leadership — but is it a skill that can be learned? Raman Chadha's life work is dedicated to answering that very question. Raman was the founding director of DePaul University’s entrepreneurship center where he was also on faculty. Today, Raman is th...
2020-01-1345 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeAdam Witty: Why Should Entrepreneurs Write Books?Adam Witty is the founder and chief executive officer of Advantage|ForbesBooks. Adam has built Advantage Media Group, The Business Growth Company™, into one of the largest business book publishers in America, serving over 1,000 Members in 40 U.S. states and 13 countries. Most recently, Advantage has partnered with Forbes to create ForbesBooks, the first book-publishing imprint for the global media company.  In this episode, hear Adam talk with host Paul Spiegelman about how he fell into the world of publishing and why he believes that all entrepreneurs should write books. Plus, hear Adam's perspective on how companies can grow...
2020-01-0248 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeBryan Papé: A Legacy of GenerosityA life or death ski accident dramatically changed Bryan Papé's perspective on life at the young age of 20. That moment created a ripple in his life that encouraged him to create his first business, the lifestyle products brand MiiR. It’s taken Bryan near and far: from Boise, Idaho to Buchanan, Liberia, where he’s been inspired by the joy and resiliency of those he has met. In this episode, hear the compelling story of Bryan's accident and what it taught him, and the mission-driven lifestyle brand it inspired. Plus, learn Bryan's approach to corporate philanthropy and his a...
2019-12-1943 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeDan Sachs: If Company Culture Pays, Why Doesn't Everybody Do It?On this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Dan Sachs, a professor at DePaul University Kellstadt School of Business, where he teaches classes on Restaurant Entrepreneurship and Service Leadership. Dan is also the founder and owner of the BIN36 restaurant and wine brand. Recently, Dan published his first book, The Million Dollar Greeting: Today’s Best Practices for Profit, Customer Retention, and a Happy Workplace. Dan Sachs started out with a push broom on the factory floor of his dad's manufacturing business. Not long after, he started working at Union Square Ca...
2019-12-0938 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeChris Stakich: Walk in the Direction of Your PassionOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Chris Stakich, CEO and Chairman of the Board at Rustic Pathways. Chris is also Co-Founder and Chairman of the Board for Thinking Beyond Borders, the global leader in gap year programs. After graduating from Harvard University with a degree in economics, Chris felt compelled to get out into the real world and make an impact. In 2002, he abandoned his previous plans to start a career on Wall Street and instead took a job at Rustic Pathways, a global leader in community service travel f...
2019-11-1144 minThe Freedom Experience with Jean Moncrieff
The Freedom Experience with Jean Moncrieff5 Signs your business is too dependent on youDo you feel like you’re being held captive by your business? Maybe you feel like you need to be at the centre of every decision, or that every customer wants to deal with you directly, or that you're the only salesperson in the business. Then this episode is for YOU! I’ll talk you through five signs that you might be at the centre of a 'hub & spoke' business model. And how to go from being at the centre of every decision to leading an empowered team of people.
2019-11-0800 minThe Freedom Experience with Jean Moncrieff
The Freedom Experience with Jean MoncrieffReasons your business needs a subscription modelIf you’re looking for ways to increase the value of your largest asset, then this episode is for YOU! Learn six reasons why a subscription model can add value to your business.
2019-10-3116 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeSteve Palmer: Our Growth Is the Story of Our PeopleOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Steve Palmer, Managing Partner of Indigo Road Hospitality Group. The Indigo Road Hospitality Group operates more than 20 restaurants across the Southeast region of the United States, and in 2019 it was named one of Forbes' 25 best small companies in America. Palmer's career in hospitality began at the age of 13, when he washed dishes at a local Chinese restaurant. From there, he climbed the ranks and worked in several other restaurants and positions — which led to a problem all too common in hospitality: substance abuse. Aft...
2019-10-0738 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeCamille Nicita: Overnight OwnerWhen Gongos' beloved founder, John Gongos, passed away suddenly in 2012, Camille became the new owner literally overnight. Having joined in the launch of Gongos Research in 1991, Camille's s forward-leaning posture is establishing a new north for the company. Staying true to the company’s core competencies while nurturing new talent, Camille operates under the belief that people realize their full potential when put in the right seats. Her grounding vision is to foster a culture where innovation, transparency, and vibrancy shape a company fit for the future. Nobody can be prepared for loss, but Camille's leadership and comp...
2019-09-1641 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeTy Hagler: Changing the CurrentOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Ty Hagler, founder and Principal of the industrial design firm, Trig.  As a teenager volunteering at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia, Ty was exposed to the sport of flatwater kayaking for the first time. That was the start of what became a decade-long career: Ty eventually grew into a world-class kayaker and was even an Olympic hopeful in 2004. But there comes a time when every athlete must retire, and when Ty hung up his paddle, he decided to return to earlier passions that he'd...
2019-08-1246 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeWilliam Vanderbloemen: Create Your Own PartyOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with William Vanderbloemen, founder and CEO of the Vanderbloemen Search Group. After more than 15 years of ministry experience as a Senior Pastor, William Vanderbloemen came up with the idea to bring the best practices of executive search to faith-based organizations. Prior to his founding Vanderbloemen, William studied executive search under a mentor with over 25 years of executive search at the highest level. Realizing that many churches struggled to find and retain leadership, he brought the idea to his faith community and challenged them to do thi...
2019-07-0849 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeKornel Grygo: From Delivery Driver to CEOOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Kornel Grygo, the newly-named CEO of Tasty Catering.  Kornel Grygo grew up in Poland until he moved to the United States at the age of ten. His childhood was defined by working hard and taking responsibility, two traits that would serve him well as he climbed the ranks at Tasty Catering. Kornel originally came to Tasty Catering as a front-line employee over a decade ago, working as a brand ambassador and a delivery driver. Kornel was a perfect match for Tasty's values-based, high-performing culture and th...
2019-06-0341 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeCourtney Kingston: Don't Bet the FarmOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Courtney Kingston, founder of Kingston Family Vineyards in Casablanca Valley, Chile.  Growing up, Courtney Kingston's imagination was constantly captured by her family's 100-year-old cattle ranch in Chile. In the early 1900s, her great grandfather settled on the land, and five generations of Kingstons have since grown up on the farm. Eager to make her own mark on the family legacy, Courtney wrote a business plan to plant a vineyard in the far western hills of the family farm. They planted their first grapevines in 199...
2019-05-0642 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeSusan Leger Ferraro: The Time, Attention, and Practice of CultureOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Susan Leger Ferraro, a social entrepreneur and the founder of a family of transformational organizations with global impact. Susan started her first business at age 17, when she boldly went against her parents' wishes and started her own company instead of attending college. For years, Susan had known that her life's purpose was to develop human capacity and share love, particularly for children and families in at-risk communities. Fresh out of high school, she started Susan's Playpen and became the youngest licensed daycare provider in Massach...
2019-04-0847 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeKris Maynard: I'm Here to Tell You We Sold the CompanyOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Kris Maynard, co-founder and CEO of Essential Ingredients. For twenty-three years, Kris Maynard has been at the helm of Essential Ingredients, building it into one of the most successful Small Giants companies around. With $114 million in revenue, 84 employees, and more growth around the corner, it's no wonder Essential Ingredients was named one of 2017's Forbes Small Giants. And although Essential Ingredients is in the chemical business, Kris truly believes that they don't sell chemicals — they sell relationships. So why did Kris walk into a ro...
2019-03-1141 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeRob Everts: Worker-Owned and Changing the WorldOn this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Rob Everts, Co-Executive Director of Equal Exchange, a worker-owned cooperative and online marketplace for fair trade goods. Equal Exchange is the oldest and largest fair-trade coffee company in the U.S. and one of the most successful worker-owned cooperatives in the country. Driven by its core principle of people over profit, the co-op has over 120 worker-owners, each with an equal stake — and an equal vote — in the business. From open-book management to an energizing core purpose, Equal Exchange has established itself as one of the most insp...
2019-02-1150 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeAnisa Telwar Kaicker: Can Leaders Change?On this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Anisa Telwar Kaicker, CEO and Founder of Anisa International, a global leader in cosmetic brush design and manufacturing.  Anisa started her company in 1992 at a time when men held most leadership positions in the cosmetics industry. In fact, Anisa International is the only female-owned brush manufacturer in the world. For fifteen years, Anisa worked hard to prove herself and hold her own in a male-dominated industry — and that meant taking a tough approach to leadership. But as the company took off, Anisa realized that sh...
2019-01-1438 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeDan Kenary: Core Values, ESOPs, and Craft BeerWhat do core values, employee ownership, and craft beer have in common?  Today on the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Dan Kenary, CEO and Co-Founder of Harpoon Brewery, a Boston-based craft brewery. Harpoon Brewery was founded in 1986 on a strong foundation of values and mission. Today, Harpoon Brewery is a shining example of a Small Giant — the company has nearly $60 million in revenue and is employee-owned through an ESOP (employee stock ownership program). For Dan, it all comes down to embracing a principles-first approach that puts people at the center of the business. As Harpoo...
2018-12-1050 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeElizabeth Colón: Turn Your Fear Into FuelSince she was a child, Elizabeth Colón has been the voice of the voiceless.  Today on the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Elizabeth Colón, President & CEO of Metaphrasis, a comprehensive interpreting and translation company. Elizabeth grew up in a Spanish-speaking home with five siblings, two of whom had hearing issues. From an early age, Elizabeth was tasked with adult responsibilities, like translating medical information for her parents and speaking up for her siblings. Today, Elizabeth has transformed her early challenges into a business dedicated to providing high-quality translation services that incorporate the cult...
2018-11-2843 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeMegan Driscoll: Do It for Your DaughtersMegan Driscoll believes that all people are equal and worthy — and she has the business practices to back it up.  Today on the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Megan Driscoll, CEO and Founder of PharmaLogics Recruiting, a Boston-based global recruiting firm exclusively focused in life sciences. Megan's career as an entrepreneur is defined by hard work, innovation, and bold decisions that showcase her strong values. Megan is a staunch supporter of female leadership in business and an advocate for wage transparency and equality. Her mission-driven firm is a prime example of the power of busin...
2018-11-1448 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeMike Draper: You Can't Fake AuthenticityThere's no way to fake authenticity. If you really love your business and care about it, people will naturally gravitate to you. After over a decade of building his t-shirt company, Michael Draper knows firsthand that it takes hard work every day to build a truly great business. Today on the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Michael Draper, Founder and Owner of RAYGUN, a clothing store headquartered in downtown Des Moines, Iowa. What started as Michael selling t-shirts on the streets of his college campus has grown into a $4 million business with 70 employees and...
2018-10-2557 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeTracy Dahlin: Confidence and CompetenceTracy Dahlin is a self-described "bull in a china shop" and a rumored "occasional pain in the ass." She's also a passionate, purpose-driven business leader. Today on the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Tracy Dahlin, Owner and President of Iron River Construction, a women-owned, full-service Minneapolis contractor and remodeler. Although Tracy is a licensed contractor, insurance inspector and roof inspector, she frequently deals with looks of disbelief when a woman shows up on the construction site. Still, Tracy leveraged her confident leadership and competence in the industry to build a successful, fast-growing company bui...
2018-10-1140 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeLester Thornhill: The Answer Is Around the CornerIt doesn't happen often, but it happened to Lester Thornhill: his CEO took him out to dinner and asked Lester to leave his role as IT Director and take over as Chief Executive Officer. Today on the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Lester Thornhill, President and CEO of Life's Abundance, a company that provides healthy products for people, pets, and the planet. Although he comes from an IT background, Lester has leveraged his unique perspective to build a people-driven culture that isn't tethered to traditional workplace practices. Not only is Life's Abundance an ESO...
2018-09-1340 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeDavid Bolotsky: The Hard Way Is the Only Enduring WayUncommonGoods is an award-winning company, most recently winning the 2018 Forbes Small Giants award. But UncommonGoods doesn't do it for the awards — their culture is driven by their core values and using business as a force for good, even when no one is watching. Today on the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with David Bolotsky, Founder and CEO of UncommonGoods, an online marketplace for designs and products by independent makers. David leads the company with a focus on long-term sustainability for the company, its employees, and the environment. A certified B Corp, UncommonGoods is leading the cha...
2018-08-0742 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeMichael Spinosa: From Corporate Culture to Open CultureCan a high-ranking corporate leader make the switch to purpose-driven leadership? Michael Spinosa, CEO of Unleashed Technologies, hit the reset button on his career to pursue building his own business as a way to escape his unfulfilling career in the corporate world. Today on the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Michael Spinosa, CEO of Unleashed Technologies, an award-winning design and development firm in Columbia, Maryland. Though Michael started out in the corporate world and found great success, he felt a pull to build a business with purpose. As he attempted to transition out of...
2018-07-2542 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeEllyn Davidson: How Leaders Survive TragedyWhen a leader is struck by personal tragedy, how do you persevere? Ellyn Davidson was diagnosed with breast cancer as a rising leader at her agency and with three kids at home. Today, she is President of Brogan & Partners and a mentor to women facing their own diagnoses.  Today on the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Ellyn Davidson, President of Brogan & Partners, a full-service marketing and advertising agency in Birmingham, Michigan. Ellyn's business card hasn't changed for 24 years — she was hired as an intern at the company and worked her way up the ladder through a...
2018-07-1245 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeHoward Spector: Is It Too Late to Find Your True Calling?How late is too late to find your true calling? If you ask Howard Spector, every step we take is a lesson learned and valuable in its own way. Today on the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Howard Spector, Co-Founder and CEO of SimplePractice, a software company serving health and wellness professionals. Howard is something of a late bloomer — he's held many jobs in his life, and for a long time he felt disconnected from his true self. But when Howard decided to go back to school to become a psychotherapist, he uncovered a passion for peo...
2018-06-2736 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeBetsy Pepine: The Best Lessons Are Learned the Hard WayIf there's one thing that Betsy Pepine knows to be true, it's that all good things come from lessons learned the hard way. But you wouldn't know it from looking at Pepine Realty today — Betsy's award-winning real estate firm has grown to three locations all while maintaining a people-first culture.  Today on the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Besty Pepine, Broker-Owner of Pepine Realty. When Betsy first started Pepine Realty in 2010, she didn't think much about culture. After she lost a valued employee to a competitor with a great culture, Betsy committed to buildin...
2018-06-1240 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeZawadi Bryant: Your Team Is Your Best Leading IndicatorAfter building a successful career in engineering and manufacturing, Zawadi Bryant was surprised when her friend, Dr. Anastasia Gentles, approached her about starting an after-hours, pediatric urgent care center — where Zawadi would be the Chief Executive Officer. Today on the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Zawadi Bryant, CEO of NightLight Pediatric Urgent Care. In 2007, Zawadi left the engineering world to tackle a new challenge: high-quality, convenient pediatric care for when other pediatric offices are closed. As Zawadi stepped into her new role as a leader, she became a student of her own experiences. She lo...
2018-05-2335 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeShawn Askinosie: Can Chocolate Change the World?By many measures, Askinosie Chocolate is a small company — they work in small, artisan batches, they focus on developing their 17 employees, and they're not afraid to hit the breaks and decelerate in order to achieve goals other than growth for growth's sake. But the impact of Askinosie Chocolate is anything but small.  Today on the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman talks with Askinosie Chocolate founder and CEO, Shawn Askinosie. Shawn started Askinosie Chocolate in 2006 after leaving a successful career as a criminal defense lawyer. Shawn is the only chocolate maker to work directly with cocoa far...
2018-05-1054 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeWebb Weiman: What's Left on Your Bucket List?When tragedies touch our lives, we're left to either sink or swim. Webb Weiman, Founder and Executive Director of Jump!, used his personal tragedies as inspiration to start a non-profit organization that helps seniors achieve what's left on their bucket list. Today on the Growing with Purpose podcast, Paul Spiegelman interviews longtime family friend and inspiring leader, Webb Weiman. After building a successful career in Hollywood, Webb made the bold decision to leave the industry and start his own non-profit organization. Inspired by his family legacy, Webb started Jump! to help seniors achieve their dreams. Today, Jump! works...
2018-04-2541 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeAnese Cavanaugh: How You Show Up in the WorldAs a leader, how are you showing up in the world? Today on the Growing with Purpose podcast, Paul Spiegelman interviews Anese Cavanaugh, Creator of the IEP Method® (Intentional Energetic Presence) and author of Contagious Culture: Show Up, Set the Tone, and Intentionally Create an Organization That Thrives. Anese's simple yet impactful methodology taps into the intention, energy, and presence that is key to leadership and organizational success. For 20 years, Anese has been working in the trenches to help leaders unlock their creativity and build incredible company cultures. In this episode, Anese and Paul dig into her early experiences in lead...
2018-04-1251 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeEpisode 17: Jon DwoskinJon Dwoskin, executive coach and Founder & CEO of the Jon Dwoskin Experience, has faced several life-altering challenges. From being diagnosed with dyslexia in his early 30s to surviving testicular cancer, Jon realized early on that life is short and decided to follow his dreams. Jon's passion for helping others began when he was just 18 years old and his father gave him Brian Tracy’s audiotape series called The Psychology of Success. Ever since, Jon knew deep down that he wanted to help others grow, but it wasn't until he faced his own mortality that he decided to chase...
2018-03-2945 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeEpisode 16: Larry JonesLarry Jones, President and CEO of Pot O' Gold Coffee Service was just seventeen-years-old when he had the idea to get into the office coffee supply business with his family. As a high schooler with no driver's license, Larry would walk on foot to sales meetings, carrying with him a coffee machine in a bag. After graduating, Larry continued helping his family run the business until he decided to try another path: crab fishing. For 12 years, Larry spent most of his time crab fishing in Alaska, saving up money to help grow the business. Through hard work and ...
2018-03-0842 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeEpisode 15: Max SpielbergAfter becoming a father, Max Spielberg, Co-Founder and President of Genexa Health, embarked on a search for safe and organic medicines for his family, but couldn't find any. So, he made it his personal mission to create healthier, organic medicine for families like his, and co-founded Genexa in 2014. Despite the many doctors and manufacturers who said it wasn't possible, they stuck to their vision and kept moving forward. Through remarkable persistence and plenty of risks, the company went to commerce in 2016 and achieved amazing success. On today's episode, Max shares how they took the business from a home-office operation to a...
2018-02-2247 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeEpisode 14: Matthew RosenbergIn just five years, Matthew Rosenberg, CEO & Founder of M-Rad Design Studio, has made impressive strides in implementing his vision of reconceptualizing the architecture industry. As he worked to build an innovative, people-focused company, he's taken big risks and learned valuable lessons along the way, from a team overhaul early in the business to learning which clients are — and are not  — a good fit. Through it all, Matthew has prioritized investing in his team and positively contributing to the architectural industry. This episode, Matthew engages in a transparent, authentic conversation about the evolution of his unique business. 
2018-02-0844 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeEpisode 13: Joe CirulliFor Joe Cirulli, Owner of Gainesville Health & Fitness Center, leadership comes down to finding what you're passionate about and giving it your all. Though his company is now a Forbes Small Giant, Joe's journey has included hardships and lessons learned, from early childhood lessons on the fragility of health to how he finally uncovered what was truly important to him — inspiring people to become their best. This episode, Joe engages in a genuine, authentic conversation about the time and effort he's invested in building a business that makes the world a better place.
2018-01-2553 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeEpisode 12: Kathy SteeleLooking back on her life, Kathy Steele, Founder & CEO of Red Caffeine, has earned her stripes as a purpose-driven leader and an entrepreneur. She first ventured into entrepreneurship after quitting a full-time job, a single mother with less than a month's rent in her bank account. But she was determined to build a great business and deliver on her vision. This episode, Kathy shares the invaluable lessons she learned from a business divorce, brushing off early failures, and leading by serving.
2018-01-1950 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeEpisode 11: Chris McKeeToday on the Growing With Purpose podcast, Paul Spiegelman interviews Chris McKee, Founder & Managing Partner of Venturity. Looking back on his life, Chris never imagined himself becoming an entrepreneur. In fact, his dream growing up was to become an accountant and sit in a cubicle doing reconciliations. What changed? This episode, Chris shares the invaluable lessons he learned while fishing with his grandfather, how he unlearned his authoritative leadership style, and his journey to becoming a purpose-driven leader.
2017-12-1456 minGrowing with Purpose
Growing with PurposeEpisode 10. Anne HedToday on the Growing with Purpose podcast, Paul Spiegelman interviews Forbes Small Giant, Anne Hed, Co-Founder and CEO of HED Cycling Products Inc. Anne's story is both a business and a love story. It begins with Anne as a young and broke college student with a desire to win the IRONMAN World Championship in Hawaii. Per her friend's suggestion, she finds herself at a small bike shop in Minneapolis, where she asks the barefoot, shirtless, greasy owner, Steve Hed, for $100 and a bike to enter the triathlon. And that's just the beginning...
2017-11-0850 min