Shows
Legacy, Unscripted!SE01 E031 - Navigating Co-Ownership Dynamics | Joe CiafardoniIn this episode of Legacy Unscripted, host Russ Katzman speaks with Joe Ciafardoni, co-founder of Palm Golf Company. They discuss the dynamics of co-ownership, the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the transition to full-time entrepreneurship. Joe shares insights on operational challenges, funding strategies, and key lessons learned throughout their entrepreneurial journey. The conversation highlights the importance of collaboration, market opportunities, and the future growth plans for Palm Golf Company.I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Russ and the...2025-07-2436 minLegacy, Unscripted!SE01 E029 - Resilience, Leadership, and Growth Lessons | Zac KauffmanIn this episode of Legacy Unscripted, host Russ Katzman speaks with Zac Kaufman, CEO of Sawyer Paddles and Oars, about the evolution of ownership within the company, the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the subsequent surge in outdoor activities. Zach shares insights on adapting business strategies, the importance of communication, and the lessons learned from navigating through unprecedented times. He emphasizes the need for resilience, the value of saving early, and the significance of clear communication in leadership.I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not m...2025-07-1545 minLegacy, Unscripted!SE01 E029 - Building a Legacy: The iSlide Journey | Justin KittredgeIn this episode of Legacy Unscripted, host Russ Katzman speaks with Justin Kittredge, the President and CEO of iSlide, about his entrepreneurial journey, the importance of company culture, and the challenges of growing a business. Justin shares insights on the significance of support structures, navigating investments, and the emotional connection brands need to establish with consumers. He reflects on the lessons learned over the years and discusses iSlide's growth, innovations, and future plans.We hope you enjoy!The Legacy Unscripted Team#entrepreneurship #businessculture #iSlide #investment #supportstructure #growth #challenges #emotionalconnection #branding #innovation2025-06-2634 minLegacy, Unscripted!SE01 E028 - Navigating the World of Alternative Dispute Resolution | Joseph GeorgeIn this episode of Legacy Unscripted, host Russ Katzman speaks with Joseph George, co-founder of George & George Alternative Dispute Resolution Group. They discuss the significance of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) in resolving conflicts outside of court, the types of clients Joseph works with, and the emotional dynamics involved in mediation. Joseph shares insights on building a business around ADR, the challenges of promoting it to the public, and the role of AI in enhancing mediation processes. He emphasizes the importance of patience, open communication, and the power of a sincere apology in resolving disputes.We hope you...2025-06-2330 minLegacy, Unscripted!SE01 E027 - Building a Brand in the Swimming Industry | John MixIn this episode of Legacy Unscripted, host Russ Katzman speaks with John Mix, CEO and co-founder of FINIS Incorporated, about the journey of building a successful swimming gear company. They discuss the origins of the company name, the transition from a hobby to a full-fledged business, and the importance of education in the swimming industry. John shares insights on navigating challenges, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, and emphasizes the significance of building strong relationships with customers and partners. The conversation highlights key lessons learned over 32 years in business, including the value of patience and working with good people.2025-06-1645 minLegacy, Unscripted!SE01 E026 - SE01 E026 - Game On: Navigating Sports, Business, and Beyond | Jake Schuster | Jake SchusterIn this episode of Legacy Unscripted, host Russ Katzman speaks with Jake Schuster, founder and CEO of Gemini Sports, about the changing landscape of sports and the challenges of building a thriving venture. Jake shares insights from his journey in professional sports, the significance of informed decision-making, and the lessons learned from securing resources and assembling a winning team. The conversation emphasizes the need for adaptability in a rapidly changing market and the crucial importance of focusing on the right people in business. We hope you enjoy!The Legacy Unscripted Team#entrepreneurship #sports #d...2025-06-1237 minLegacy, Unscripted!SE01 E025 - Cultural Sensitivity in Global Sports Expansion | Alexis LeviIn this episode of Legacy Unscripted, host Russ Katzman interviews Alexis Levi, the first African-American woman to own, manage, and serve as CEO of a men's professional basketball team. Alexis shares her journey through sports management, the importance of legacy, and her new venture, Next American Sports Pro, which aims to create opportunities for athletes globally. The conversation delves into themes of reinvention, respect in sports, and the cultural exchange that sports can facilitate. In this conversation, Alexis Levi shares her experiences as a mother navigating the world of sports, emphasizing the importance of balance and understanding in parenting...2025-06-0944 minLegacy, Unscripted!SE01 E024 - Navigating the Rough: Lessons from an Entrepreneur | Gary KruegerIn this episode of Legacy Unscripted, Russ Katzman interviews Gary Krueger, CEO of PG Golf, who shares his journey from professional golfer to entrepreneur. Gary discusses the challenges he faced in transitioning to business, the importance of strategic planning, and how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the golf industry. He also reflects on the evolution of his company, its ownership structure, and the lessons learned throughout his entrepreneurial journey.#entrepreneurship #BMX #productinnovation #athletetransition #businesslessons #cyclingindustry #performanceenhancement #legacy #leadership #sportsbusiness #businesschallenges #productdevelopment #patentprocess #entrepreneurship #marketdynamics #innovation #partnerships #BMXindustry #tariffs #inventorymanagement2025-06-0531 minLegacy, Unscripted!SE01 E023 - From Athlete to Entrepreneur: The Beast Baseball Journey | Bryan ShepherdIn this episode of Legacy Unscripted, host Russ Katzman speaks with Bryan Shepherd, owner of Beast Baseball and a seasoned college coach. They discuss the importance of individualized training in sports, the transition from coaching to entrepreneurship, and the challenges of scaling a personalized coaching business. Bryan shares insights on coaching philosophy, understanding athlete needs, and the evolution of baseball training methods. He also offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of preparation and adaptability in business.We hope you enjoy!The Legacy Unscripted Team2025-06-0336 minLegacy, Unscripted!S01 E22 - The Patent Process: A Product Guy's Perspective | Toby Henderson | Legacy, UnscriptedIn this episode of Legacy Unscripted, host Russ Katzman speaks with Toby Henderson, CEO of SYNDYT, about his journey from being a professional athlete to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the cycling industry. They discuss the importance of innovation in product development, the challenges of transitioning from sports to business, and the lessons learned from past experiences, including the rise and fall of his first product, the Duff Fender. Toby shares insights on balancing passion with business responsibilities and the significance of surrounding oneself with the right team to succeed. In this conversation, the speaker discusses the challenges of...2025-05-2145 minLegacy, Unscripted!S01 E21 - On Culture, Cash, & What No One Tells You About Scaling | Lou Lentine | Legacy, UnscriptedIn this episode of Legacy Unscripted, host Russ Katzman speaks with Lou Lentine, CEO and Founder of Echelon Fitness, about his diverse ventures from the restaurant industry to global fitness. Lou shares insights on scaling a business, maintaining corporate culture across borders, navigating acquisitions, and the challenges of funding in today's market. He also discusses the impact of AI on the fitness industry and the importance of being adaptable in business.Lou's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lou-lentine-6b67736/Echelon Fitness, Lou Lenteni, entrepreneurship, restaurant business, corporate culture, acquisitions, funding strategies, AI in...2025-05-1937 minLegacy, Unscripted!S01 E20 - Building Positive Relationships in Youth Sports | Martin Brown | Legacy, UnscriptedIn this episode of Legacy Unscripted, Russ Katzman interviews Martin Brown, the president and CEO of Steel Sports. The conversation delves into the profound influence of Tommy Lasorda on Steel Sports, emphasizing the importance of building positive relationships in coaching and leadership. Martin shares insights on how to adopt a vision for an organization, especially in the context of leadership transitions, and the significance of authenticity and genuine connection in fostering teamwork and success. In this conversation, Martin discusses the challenges and transformations faced by Steel Sports during the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of building a leadership team with...2025-05-1548 minLegacy, Unscripted!S01 E19 - Mentorship and Growth in the Sports Industry | Lou DePaoli | Legacy, UnscriptedIn this episode of Legacy Unscripted, host Russ Katzman speaks with Lou DePaoli, president of General Sports Worldwide, about the innovative Clubhouse platform designed for career development in the sports industry. They discuss the importance of mentorship, effective marketing strategies for membership growth, and leveraging LinkedIn for career advancement. Lou shares insights on the significance of data in sports management and how to establish a positive culture within sports organizations, emphasizing personal and professional development. In this conversation, Lou DePaoli and Russ Katzman discuss the importance of viewing sports as an entertainment business rather than just a competitive arena...2025-05-1247 minLegacy, Unscripted!S01 E18 - The Importance of Relationships in Entrepreneurship | Shaluka Perera | Legacy, UnscriptedIn this episode of Legacy Unscripted, host Russ Katzman speaks with Shaluka Pereira, CEO of Renovation Cells, about his journey from corporate America to entrepreneurship. Shaluka shares his experiences running a brewery, transitioning to the renovation business, and the challenges of growing a startup. He emphasizes the importance of setting measurable goals, building relationships, and the lessons learned from both running and business. Shaluka also offers valuable advice for young entrepreneurs about taking risks and the significance of networking.Connect with Shaluka on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaluka/#entrepreneurship #businessgrowth #mentorship #sportsbusiness #renovationcells...2025-05-0837 minLegacy, Unscripted!S01 E17 - Resilience and Growth in Entrepreneurship | With Niccolo Posarelli | Legacy, UnscriptedIn this episode of Legacy Unscripted, host Russ Katzman speaks with Niccolo Posarelli, CEO and founder of Front Runner Sports. They discuss the journey of building a sports management company that services athletes, the challenges faced along the way, and the impact of NIL on the sports industry. Niccolo shares insights on resilience, financial stability, and the importance of managing relationships in a competitive environment. In this conversation, Niccolo and Russ explore the complexities of transitioning from college to professional sports, the challenges athletes face in re-identifying themselves post-career, and the importance of building a personal brand. They discuss...2025-04-1642 minLegacy, Unscripted!S01 E16 - The Importance of Accountability in Business | With Gregg Hemphill | Legacy, UnscriptedIn this episode of Legacy Unscripted, host Russ Katzman interviews Gregg Hemphill, CEO of NextBelt LLC. They discuss Gregg's career journey, the importance of accountability in leadership, and the differences between working in large and small companies. Gregg shares insights on managing daily priorities, fostering company culture, and the challenges of work-life balance in a post-pandemic world. He emphasizes the value of in-person interactions and the need for quick decision-making in a small business environment, while also reflecting on lessons learned from unscripted moments in his career. In this conversation, Gregg shares insights on embracing mistakes as learning opportunities...2025-04-1546 minLegacy, Unscripted!S01 E15 - Transforming lives through fitness | With Josh York | Legacy, UnscriptedIn this episode of Legacy Unscripted, host Russ Katzman interviews Josh York, founder and CEO of GYMGUYZ, who shares his journey of transforming lives through fitness. Josh discusses the importance of purpose in business, the unique model of GYMGUYZ, and the significance of creating a strong culture. He reflects on his leadership lessons learned from early challenges, the power of vision and manifestation, and the daily habits that contribute to success. The conversation emphasizes resilience, the hard path to greatness, and the mindset required to overcome obstacles in entrepreneurship.#entrepreneurship #soccer #businessgrowth #mentorship #onesoccernation #sportsbusiness #professionalsoccer #raisingcapital...2025-04-1421 minLegacy, Unscripted!S01 E14 - Balancing Profit and Purpose in Legal Practice | With David Holt | Legacy, UnscriptedDavid Holt is the founder and CEO of Holt Law, a Minnesota and California-licensed firm that helps healthcare entrepreneurs navigate their industry's unique legal challenges.Drawing on extensive experience advising healthcare professionals, medical spa owners, and group home operators, David specializes in regulatory frameworks and liability protection for group homes and licensed residential care settings. His expertise enables clients to grow their businesses with confidence and sustainability.Beyond his legal practice, David is the Founder and CEO of DocuHealth, a platform that makes essential legal documents and training accessible to healthcare professionals.In addition to leading...2025-04-1048 minLegacy, Unscripted!S01 E13 - Discovering the Power of Content Creation | With Victoria Lozano | Legacy, UnscriptedIn this episode of Legacy Unscripted, host Russ Katzman speaks with Victoria Lozano, founder of Blue Seven Content, about her journey in the world of SEO and content writing. They discuss the importance of effective communication, the challenges of using AI in content creation, and the dynamics of partnerships in business. Victoria shares insights on the significance of storytelling for clients, the role of attorneys in communication, and the value of building a personal brand on platforms like LinkedIn. The conversation emphasizes the need for patience and persistence in entrepreneurship, as well as the importance of transparency and team...2025-03-3156 minLegacy, Unscripted!S01 E12 - Using Fear as a Catalyst for Growth | With Mike Pertz Tyler | Legacy, UnscriptedIn this episode of Legacy Unscripted, host Russ Katzman speaks with Mike Pertz, a former soccer player turned entrepreneur. They discuss the challenges athletes face when transitioning to life after sports, the importance of using fear as a guide in entrepreneurship, and the valuable lessons learned from sports that can be applied to business. Mike shares his journey from public safety to starting his own e-commerce business, emphasizing the need for resilience, teamwork, and mentorship in achieving success. In this conversation, Mike Pertz shares his journey from e-commerce to law, emphasizing the importance of coaching and community support in...2025-03-2842 minLegacy, Unscripted!S01 E11 - Building One Soccer Nation: A Vision for the Future | With Kareem Rae | Legacy, UnscriptedIn this episode of Legacy Unscripted, host Russ Katzman speaks with Kareem Rae, CEO and co-founder of One Soccer Nation. They discuss Kareem's journey from a soccer player to an entrepreneur, the challenges he faced in pursuing a professional soccer career, and his vision for creating opportunities for aspiring soccer players through his organization. The conversation highlights the importance of mentorship, the process of raising capital, and the significance of focus and prioritization in entrepreneurship. Kareem shares valuable insights on building a professional soccer club and the future of soccer in the U.S., emphasizing the role of real...2025-03-2557 minLegacy, Unscripted!S01 E10 - Building a Legacy in Sports Consulting | With Tom Pelzer | Legacy, UnscriptedIn this episode of Legacy Unscripted, host Russ Katzman speaks with Tom Pelzer, co-founder of to/be Sports, a consultancy aimed at helping soccer clubs achieve sustainable growth. Tom shares his journey from being a student athlete to an entrepreneur, discussing the challenges and accomplishments faced in their first year of business. The conversation highlights the importance of networking, building connections, and the value of having a clear vision and plan. Tom also offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the need to trust one's instincts and continuously learn.#entrepreneurship #2bsports #businessgrowth #soccer #football #studentathlete #consulting #consulting #pr...2025-03-1741 minLegacy, Unscripted!S01 E09 - The Power of Personal Branding in Business | With Todd Anthony Tyler | Legacy, UnscriptedIn this episode of Legacy Unscripted, host Russ Katzman interviews Todd Anthony Tyler, a fashion photographer and entrepreneur. They discuss Todd's journey from modeling to photography, the importance of personal branding, and the impact of social media on perception. Todd shares insights on navigating the challenges of reality TV, the significance of intent in business, and the lessons learned from past failures. He emphasizes the need for adaptability, strong financial management, and building a supportive team. The conversation concludes with key takeaways for aspiring entrepreneurs. #entrepreneurship #investorrelations #businessgrowth #marketeducation #personaltraining #platformdevelopment #personalbranding #hotelservices #pr #digitalservices #realitytv #modeling #s...2025-03-1445 minLegacy, Unscripted!SE01 E08 - From Trainer to Entrepreneur | With Jason Baker | Legacy, UnscriptedIn this episode of Legacy Unscripted, host Russ Katzman speaks with Jason Baker, founder and CEO of Expond, a marketplace platform for wellness services. They discuss the rise of wellness tourism, the challenges of helping wellness providers find work, and the importance of educating the market about new business models. Jason shares his journey as an entrepreneur, the lessons learned along the way, and the significance of maintaining balance in life and work. The conversation also touches on investor relationships and future expansion plans for Expond.Jason BakerFounder & CEO Expondjbaker@goexpond.com2025-03-1234 minLegacy, Unscripted!SE01 E07 - Building a personal brand in sports management | With Aaron Studwell | Legacy, UnscriptedIn this episode of Legacy Unscripted, host Russ Katzman speaks with Dr. Aaron Studwell, founder of XO Consulting, about his unique journey from atmospheric science to sports management. They discuss the importance of personal branding, the impact of weather forecasting in racing, and the challenges of managing client relationships in the sports industry. Dr. Studwell shares valuable leadership lessons learned from his experiences and emphasizes the significance of networking and communication in building successful partnerships. The conversation also delves into the dynamics of working with young drivers and the role of sponsorship in the racing world. In this conversation...2025-03-1055 minLegacy, Unscripted!SE01 E06 - Building Community: The Power of Golf for Veterans | Jonathan Sessa | Legacy, Unscripted!In this episode of Legacy Unscripted, host Russ Katzman speaks with Jonathan Sessa, CEO and founder of Warrior Golf Academy. They discuss the mission of the academy, which focuses on helping first responders and veterans find community and purpose through golf. Jonathan shares his personal experiences and the therapeutic benefits of golf, emphasizing the importance of connection and mental health. The conversation also touches on the challenges of running a nonprofit and the innovative approaches Jonathan is taking to create opportunities for veterans in the golf industry. In this conversation, Jonathan Sessa discusses the therapeutic benefits of golf for...2025-03-0645 minLegacy, Unscripted!SE01 E05 - Strategic Thinking in Business and Chess | Sudev Rajah | Legacy, Unscripted!In this episode of Legacy Unscripted, host Russ Katzman speaks with Sudev Rajah, the group CEO of Club Ventures, about his journey from India to the United States and the founding of Chess KLUB. Sudev shares how chess has influenced his life and business, the challenges faced in building the Chess KLUB, and how he adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic by pivoting to an online model. He emphasizes the importance of mentorship and coaching in both chess and entrepreneurship, and discusses the strategic decisions behind expanding Chess KLUB through franchising. In this conversation, Sudev Rajah discusses the evolution of...2025-02-2747 minLegacy, Unscripted!SE01 E04 - The Unsung Heroes of Employee Assistance | Julie Fabsik-Swarts | Legacy, Unscripted!In this episode of Legacy Unscripted, host Russ Katzman speaks with Julie Fabsik-Swarts, CEO of the Employee Assistance Professionals Association. They discuss the vital role of Employee Assistance Professionals (EAPs) in supporting mental health in workplaces and sports. Julie shares her extensive background in sports and mental health, the evolution of EAPs, and the challenges faced in both the corporate and athletic worlds. The conversation also touches on the impact of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) on athletes, funding disparities in sports, and the importance of mental health awareness. Julie emphasizes the need for support systems for athletes and employees...2025-02-2036 minLegacy, Unscripted!SE01 E03 - Owning your brand: The importance of IP in business | With Todd Graves | Legacy, Unscripted! PodcastIn this episode of Legacy Unscripted, host Russ Katzmann speaks with Todd Graves, founder of Graves Golf, about his journey in the golf industry, the influence of legendary golfer Moe Norman, and the evolution of golf instruction through digital platforms. Todd shares insights on marketing strategies that led to the success of his instructional video, the importance of engaging with customers in real-time, and the value of accountability in coaching. The conversation highlights the significance of iteration in program development and the benefits of cohort-based learning for both instructors and students. In this conversation, Todd Graves and Russ Katzman...2025-02-131h 02Legacy, Unscripted!SE01 E02 - Entertainment vs. Sports: A new perspective | Cameron Irvine | Legacy, Unscripted!In this episode of Legacy Unscripted, host Russ Katzman speaks with Cameron Irvine, founder of the Simulated Football League (SFL). Cameron shares his journey from sports media to creating a unique football league that combines gaming and community. He discusses the challenges of managing a growing organization, the importance of understanding the entertainment value of sports, and the role of team leaders in maintaining morale. Cameron also talks about the expansion of the SFL into new leagues and the creative opportunities that come with it, emphasizing the need to leverage strengths and adapt to change. In this conversation, Russ...2025-02-0645 minLegacy, Unscripted!SE01 E01 - The Lifestyle of Sports Management | With Aron McGuire | Legacy, Unscripted! PodcastIn this episode of Legacy Unscripted, host Russ Katzman speaks with Aaron Maguire, CEO of USA Bobsled and Skeleton. Aaron shares his unexpected journey from aspiring science teacher to elite athlete and sports administrator. He discusses the importance of life experiences in shaping his career, the transition from athlete to administrator, and the key lessons learned along the way. The conversation delves into goal setting, the significance of taking notes, and the value of adapting to challenges in the sports industry. In this conversation, Aron McGuire discusses the unique structure and challenges of the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic...2025-01-3056 min
Access Your Leadership with Hakim LakhdarPermission to Evolve: Supporting Business Success Through LeadershipRuss Katzman, a Strategist, Coach, Mentor, Author and International Speaker and the Founder and CEO of Progeny Coaching and Consulting LLC, joins Access Your Leadership to talk about how purpose and evolution are two key ingredients for success in leadership and business. Russ shares some of the details on his own journey, starting from his early years in Wisconsin all the way to where he is now as a husband, father and business owner living in the Tampa area. He explains one of his superpowers, which he discovered early on in his career, that allows him to bridge communication...2024-05-2048 min