Shows
Built to FinishSell Anywhere: How to Conquer Rejection and Find Your Purpose | Donnie TuttleDonnie Tuttle, a passionate coach, author of "Sell Anywhere," and professor at the School of Professional Design, shares his transformative journey of relearning sales while living a nomadic life with his family, moving from one Airbnb to another for over two years. He discusses how to move from "the grind to working from your design" by infusing sales with genuine curiosity, joy, and purpose. Donnie explains how he overcame the sting of rejection by adopting an alter ego—the "Joyful Farmer"—and focusing on ulterior motives like having fun and making someone's day better. The conversation explores the importance of a...2025-08-0648 min
Built to FinishFinish Lines & Bottom Lines: A Conversation on Sobriety, Triathlons, and Family Business | Adam HillAdam Hill, a professional EOS implementer, international keynote speaker, and CEO of the nine-figure family business, Hill Brothers Chemical Company, shares his incredible journey from a decade-long struggle with alcoholism and anxiety to becoming a world-championship qualifying Ironman triathlete. He details the turning point that led him to sobriety in 2012 and how the principles of community and mentorship in Alcoholics Anonymous became a blueprint for his success in endurance sports and business. Adam explains how he applied the same resilience and systematic approach to revitalize his century-old family company, implementing the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) to overcome a period...2025-07-3044 min
Built to FinishThe Rainmaker Trap: Why Promoting Your Top Salesperson Can Stall Growth | William BellWilliam Bell, Chief Sales Officer at Chief Outsiders and Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Accelerate Consulting, discusses the critical strategies for successfully selling a business. He shares his expert advice for founders, covering everything from maximizing valuation to navigating the intense due diligence process. Discover the common "tricks" sellers attempt, such as manipulating pipelines with non-binding letters of intent, and why honesty is always the best policy to avoid derailing a deal. William and Steven also share their personal experiences as members of the CEO Project, highlighting how an advisory board of peers can help leaders brainstorm solutions...2025-07-2339 min
Built to FinishBeyond the Game: Joanna Lohman on Authenticity and ResilienceJoanna Lohman is a globally recognized keynote speaker, sports diplomat, mental performance coach, and a former professional soccer player for the Washington Spirit. Joanna shares her powerful journey from the pitch to the podium, offering insights into her transition from elite athlete to transformational speaker and coach.Joanna dives deep into the pursuit of potential, the power of authenticity, and the dangers of early sports specialization for kids. She reflects on the mentors and meaningful moments that shaped her path, while challenging conventional definitions of success by championing process over outcome and values over...2025-07-1632 min
Built to FinishThe Art of the Deal: Kelly Stratton's Insights on M&AWhat does it take, not just financially, but emotionally and strategically, to sell the company you built from the ground up?Kelly Stratton, President and Founder of Quire, a cloud-based platform transforming technical report writing. As a seasoned environmental engineer and advocate for Agile development, Kelly shares her journey through the successful sale of her company and the lessons learned along the way.She emphasizes the value of assembling a specialized M&A team—accountants, legal advisors, and investment bankers—who can guide founders through complex decisions. Initially skeptical of p...2025-07-0940 min
Built to FinishKnow Your Number: A Masterclass in Exit Strategy - James HallIn this episode of Built To Finish, host Steven sits down with James Hall, CEO of Enate, to explore his impressive track record in the advanced technology sector and his strategic approach to successful business exits. James takes us through his entrepreneurial journey—starting with the founding of Gen Four in 2012, its acquisition by Accenture in 2017, and his current leadership role at Innate.He dives into the critical components of building a business with a clear exit in mind, including the importance of knowing your business model, identifying your target buyers, and setting a de...2025-07-0240 min
Built to FinishThe Learn-It-All Leader: How Good Decisions Equal Success | Damon LembiDamon Lembi, a two-time bestselling author, podcast host, and the founder and CEO of Learnit, shares his perspective on leadership and decision-making. He discusses the central concept from his book, "The Learn It All Leader," which contrasts "learn-it-alls" who are humble and open to new ideas, with "know-it-alls" who are stuck in their ways. A key decision highlighted in his career was the acquisition of a local competitor right before COVID, a move that proved to be highly successful.The conversation also explores common decision-making pitfalls for leaders, such as making rash, emotional choices...2025-06-2536 min
Built to FinishOvercoming the Impossible: Cystic Fibrosis, Pro Football, and Beyond with NFL Vet Mike PawlawskiFormer professional football player and inspirational figure Mike Pawlawski shares his journey from overcoming cystic fibrosis to becoming a world champion quarterback. Mike discusses his success in building companies, his work as a TV producer and broadcaster, and his role as a keynote speaker and high-performance coach. He emphasizes the importance of persistence, adaptation, and the interplay between psychology and physiology in achieving greatness. Mike also recounts a harrowing encounter with a grizzly bear during the filming of an outdoor documentary. He concludes by offering actionable advice for setting and achieving audacious goals and describes how anyone can train...2025-06-1851 min
Built to FinishThe Human-AI Workforce: Armando Viteri on the Future of ProductivityIs your business truly ready for the AI revolution, or will it be left behind?In this episode of Built To Finish, we sit down with Armando Viteri, a seasoned executive with over 25 years in enterprise computing and a co-founder of multiple successful companies. Join us as Armando unpacks the profound ways Artificial Intelligence is reshaping the landscape for software companies and businesses at large.Discover how AI is revolutionizing internal processes, supercharging productivity, and catalyzing a fundamental cultural shift within organizations. Armando shares his compelling prediction about the...2025-06-1148 min
Built to FinishWith Intention: Jon Giganti on Aligning Purpose and PerformanceJon Giganti, a seasoned sales professional, former division one collegiate athlete, and author of the USA Today bestseller 'With Intention.' John shares his journey of writing the book, rooted in his early experiences with motivational literature and his struggles with performance in sports and sales. He discusses the concept of living with intentionality, overcoming obstacles, and managing 'intention deficit disorder,' a term introduced by Dr. Russell Barkley. The conversation also covers productivity strategies, the importance of building trust within teams, and John's recent leap from corporate America to entrepreneurship. John now focuses on coaching, speaking, and developing...2025-06-0440 min
The CEO Project PodcastScaling Everest: Powerful Insights on the Journey to the Top How should climbers prepare financially for the significant costs of climbing Everest? Steven Pivnik, an ambitious mountaineer currently on an expedition with Alpenglow Expeditions, is striving to summit Mount Everest, aiming to join the elite "8000 meter club." Having conquered Kilimanjaro and faced the challenges of Denali, Pivnik brings a wealth of experience to his Everest endeavor, underscoring the importance of meticulous preparation and acclimatization, facilitated by tools like hypoxico tents. His perspective on the ascent highlights the dual priorities of safety and summit success, favoring the north side of Everest for its relative safety from avalanches and rockfall. With a...2025-06-0226 min
Built to FinishCode Blue to Bottom Line: Balancing the ER and Entrepreneurship | Mike CettaReady to scale your business and make a real impact? Discover how a healthcare leader built a massive company and is now disrupting medical technology!Michael Cetta, a physician and entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience in emergency medicine, shares his journey from leading MEP, an emergency medicine group that grew to 10 locations and 300 clinicians, to merging with US Acute Care Solutions. He discusses the strategies used during the exit process, the importance of partner alignment, and the balance between clinical practice and business leadership. Michael also reveals creative, al...2025-05-2834 min
Built to FinishFrom Base Camp to Summit: Everest Adventure Q&A with Steven PivnikWhat’s it really like to record a podcast from Mount Everest Base Camp in Tibet, China? 🏔️Join Steven Pivnik, host of the Built to Finish Podcast, as he takes you behind the scenes of his mountaineering journey—answering YOUR questions from 17,000 feet up!In this high-altitude episode, Steven reveals:✔️ His future adventure goals and climbing bucket list✔️ The latest gear upgrades and how he packs for Everest✔️ Acclimatization strategies that actually work✔️ What it’s like working with guiding companies✔️ The physical + mental training need...2025-05-2123 min
Built to FinishThe Climb and the Challenge: Louise McEvoy's Adventure on Everest and BeyondLouise McEvoy, a motivational speaker, Everest Summitter, and the Vice President of US Channel Sales at Trend Micro, shares her inspiring 20-year journey to summiting Mount Everest, detailing the challenges, rigorous training, and mountaineering experiences that shaped her path. She also discusses the importance of preparedness and the risks associated with high-altitude climbing, including close encounters with avalanches and witnessing fatalities. Shifting to her professional role, Louise explains the critical landscape of cybersecurity, advising on how organizations and individuals can protect themselves from increasing threats. She touches upon the relevance of the 'Blue Ocean S...2025-05-1441 min
Built to FinishFirst Woman to Climb the World’s Second-Highest Summits | Jenn DrummondJenn Drummond, a world record holder for being the first female to climb the second-highest summits on each of the seven continents, including K2. Jenn is also an international speaker, author of 'Break Proof,' host of the 'Seek Your Summit' podcast, and the founder of Clearwater Wealth Management. She shares her experiences of surviving a near-fatal car accident, which reshaped her perspective on fear and personal limitations, prompting her pursuit of monumental goals. Jenn discusses key moments like dealing with illness during her K2 ascent, the challenges and triumphs of her four-year journey t...2025-05-0736 min
Built to FinishAI Readiness and Global Business Transformation - Lee Coulter - Built to Finish - Episode # 022Lee Coulter, the Global Head of Transformation at Chazey Partners, shares his extensive experience in leading enterprise transformations and exiting startups. Lee's discussion provides a deep dive into strategies for company exits, focusing on cap table cleanup, maintaining detailed documentation, and the significance of having a coach during the process. He also addresses the challenges posed by poorly documented equity agreements, emphasizing the necessity of transparency and regular 'closing book' practices for potential successful exits. Lee highlights the importance of restructuring management teams to align with company growth phases and why founders should often transition from their CEO roles...2025-04-3049 min
Built to FinishThe Final Lap: Turning Your Life’s Work Into a Legacy | Marcus WagnerWhat are the key ingredients of a successful business exit?Marcus Wagner, financial expert and advisor, shares invaluable insights on positioning a business for long-term growth, making it attractive for acquisition, and executing a seamless exit strategy. He breaks down the importance of building sustainable revenue streams, hiring top-tier leadership ahead of time, and staying ahead with proactive due diligence. He also provides expert guidance for entrepreneurs looking to maximize their company’s value while avoiding common pitfalls in acquisitions. Additionally, the discussion dives into the crucial role of cultural alignment in post-sale integration and how it...2025-04-2340 min
Built to FinishThe Art of Branding: Elevate Your Business - Sienna Roman - Built to Finish - Episode # 020What truly makes a brand unforgettable—its visuals, its message, or the emotions it evokes?Sienna Roman is an award-winning business owner and designer and co-host of the podcast Process Makes Purpose. She discusses what makes a strong brand, the importance of consistency, and the elements that contribute to a compelling brand. Sienna shares her views on the strategic nature of branding and the impact of visual representation. She provides examples of successful and unsuccessful rebrands by major companies like Walmart and Jaguar. She also offers advice for startups on building authentic brands and han...2025-04-1636 min
Built to FinishFrom the Skies to SpaceX and Ironman Success - Scott Poteet - Built to Finish - Episode # 019Scott 'Kid' Poteet, a former combat fighter pilot turned astronaut shares his inspiring journey from struggling with motion sickness and fear of heights as a child to becoming a fighter pilot and eventually fulfilling his dream of flying on SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket. He also discusses his passion for endurance sports, having completed 16 Ironman triathlons, including the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii. Scott details his unique educational path through an outdoor education program, the intense training required for space missions, and the pioneering work he is involved in with SpaceX's Polaris missions. He emphasizes t...2025-04-0951 min
Built to FinishOpen Banking and Beyond: Kieron James on Innovation and Leadership - Built to Finish - Episode # 018Curious about scaling a tech startup, planning an exit strategy, managing remote teams, and growing a business?Kieron James is a seasoned entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience in launching and scaling successful tech startups. Kieron shares valuable insights on exit strategies, emphasizing the importance of planning for an exit from day one and keeping organized records for a smooth due diligence process. The conversation also covers the challenges of evolving leadership teams as companies grow, as well as the differences between remote work and traditional office environments.Kieron...2025-04-0231 min
Built to FinishThe Strategic Advantage of Knowing Your Business - Frank Gazzillo - Built to Finish - Episode # 017As a CEO, how important is it to have a deep, comprehensive understanding of every aspect of your business, and how does that impact decision-making?Frank Gazzillo, a serial entrepreneur and CEO of Accurate Neuromonitoring, discusses his journey from chiropractor to successful business owner, having built and scaled multiple companies. Frank shares his experience selling his business to a private equity firm, emphasizing the importance of transparency, preparation, and a deep understanding of your business. He also highlights the value of working with investment bankers during the sales process, as well as the complexities...2025-03-2636 min
Built to FinishCharting a Course from Boardroom to Big Screen - Nick Wilkinson - Built to Finish - Episode # 016How can leadership, strategy, and adaptability shape both business transformations and film production?Nick Wilkinson, President of SNL Film and expert CEO discusses his career, transitioning from leading IT and private equity firms to a CEO role in a private company. Nick shares valuable insights on managing company transformations, navigating the sales process, and leading teams effectively. He also touches on his pivot to the entertainment industry, where he writes and produces films like Death on the Brandywine. The conversation emphasizes the similarities between building a company and producing films, particularly in terms of...2025-03-1951 min
Big Freakin' ChangeFrom the Boardroom to New Summits | Ep. 005 w/ Steven PivnikIn this episode of the Big Freaking Change Podcast, host Cara Moeller-Poppitt interviews Steven Pivnik, an accomplished entrepreneur and endurance athlete. They discuss Steven's journey in writing his book 'Built to Finish', the parallels between entrepreneurship and endurance sports, and the mindset required to overcome challenges. Steven shares insights on the importance of setting goals, seeking mentorship, and the courage to make significant changes in life and business. The conversation emphasizes the value of perseverance, the ripple effect of personal growth, and the necessity of surrounding oneself with supportive individuals.Steven’s Links:...2025-03-1931 min
Built to FinishBooks, Business, and Balance - Nick Hutchison - Built to Finish - Episode # 015How can entrepreneurs and authors balance the demands of business growth and personal development while maintaining focus and productivity?Nick Hutchison, founder and CEO of the rapidly growing seven-figure marketing agency BookThinkers, joins host Steven Pivnick. Nick, also the host of the top-rated podcast BookThinkers: Life-Changing Books, shares his insights into combining entrepreneurship with personal growth. He discusses his experiences with SMART goals, overcoming business failures (including a failed app development), and his journey as a new triathlete and father. Nick also reveals the current services BookThinkers offers, such as short-form video production, podcast booking, and social...2025-03-1239 min
Built to FinishNavigating Global Expansion - Mark Garland - Built to Finish - Episode # 014What are the key strategies for navigating global market expansion and company acquisitions? Mark Garland, shares his extensive experience in global market expansion and supply chain solutions. Mark discusses his leadership roles at companies such as 4R Systems, Capgemini, and Accenture, highlighting the strategic decisions and challenges he faced. He explains the process of navigating a company sale during the COVID-19 pandemic, offering insights on maintaining operational focus, the value of good advisors, and the importance of having a contingency plan. He also introduces his new venture, Advance2 Global, aimed at helping companies expand i...2025-03-0540 min
Built to FinishAligning Strategy with Vision for Success - Tom Bonney - Built to Finish - Episode # 013Curious about how to build a successful business and prepare for a profitable exit?Tom Bonney shares his 30+ years of experience in the business world, from his early days as a CPA at Deloitte to founding two successful firms: Polaris Consulting and CMF Associates. Tom offers invaluable insights into the key principles of building a thriving business, including the importance of staying market-focused, aligning with the right partners, and learning from initial mistakes.He shares strategies for navigating the due diligence and sale processes, managing economic downturns, and maximizing...2025-02-2631 min
Built to FinishFrom Founder to Acquisition: A Journey to Microsoft - Jon Gilman - Built to Finish - Episode # 012Jon Gilman, founder and former CEO of Clear Software, discusses his journey from founding his company to its acquisition by Microsoft in 2021. He elaborates on the challenges he faced, including the intense stress of managing and eventually selling his startup. Jon emphasizes the importance of having multiple potential buyers at the negotiation table and recounts the bittersweet moments when deals fell through. He highlights the transformation and stability his team experienced post-acquisition, the operations of Microsoft's Power Platform, and the profound support from Microsoft that allowed him to regain work-life balance. ...2025-02-1929 min
Built to FinishBuilding Success and Learning New Lessons - Mike Saldi - Built to Finish - Episode # 11Ever wondered what it takes to build a successful SaaS company, scale it to new heights, and ultimately navigate the complexities of selling? In this episode, Steven Pivnik interviews Mike Saldi, founder and CEO of SCLogic, and shares insights from his 28-year journey in logistics and facility software. Mike discusses his reasons for selling SCLogic, emphasizing the impact of age and the relentless drive to grow. He stresses the importance of company culture, equity distribution, and open communication. Mike also dives into the role of investment bankers in optimizing the sale process, elaborating on t...2025-02-1236 min
Chief Endurance OfficerThe Summit of Success - Steven Pivnik - Chief Endurance Officer with Greg McDonough - Episode # 095Get ready for an inspiring episode! This week, we’re joined by Steven Pivnik—entrepreneur, endurance athlete, author, and speaker. Steven sits down with host Gregory McDonough to reflect on his journey from early business setbacks to remarkable success. Along the way, he’s completed 17 Ironman races and is training to climb Mount Everest in 2025.Steven also shares his unique perspective on building resilience, creating a winning strategy, and why expert advice is crucial when navigating complex decisions like selling a business. Don't miss this powerful conversation about endurance—in life, business, and beyond!Tak...2025-02-0734 min
Built to FinishExecutive Leadership & Strategic Exits - Pam Singleton - Built to Finish - Episode # 010In this episode of Built to Finish, executive coach Pamela Singleton draws on over 20 years of entrepreneurial experience to share strategies for guiding businesses through key growth phases and successful exits. She covers the importance of a strong business model, recurring revenue, and a skilled executive team. Pamela also emphasizes the need for confidentiality during the sales process, effective cap table management, and the complexities of earnouts. The conversation delves into the emotional journey of selling a business and the role of private equity. Finally, Pamela introduces the CEO Project, a mastermind group designed to help CEOs scale by...2025-02-0530 min
Built to FinishNavigating Highs, Lows, and Sell-Offs - Mark Kennedy - Built to Finish - Episode # 009Mark Kennedy, Partner at Red Strategy Group LLC, and a seasoned entrepreneur and advisor with over 25 years of experience, shares his journey from founding nine companies to selling his technology firm, Crown Partners, to Publicis Group. Crown Partners was named Strategic Acquisition of the Year in 2014 by the Mergers and Acquisitions Association. Mark discusses the key strategies that fueled his success, the importance of strategic partnerships, and the value of a strong executive leadership team. He also explores his current role at REDD Strategy Group, where they use agile methodologies to help growth companies optimize strategy, people, and execution...2025-01-2948 min
Built to FinishA Flight Path Through Military and Commercial Skies - Mark Peters - Built to Finish - Episode # 008Mark Peters, a seasoned pilot with over 30 years of experience in both military and commercial aviation, reflects on his career journey, beginning with his training and instructor roles in the U.S. Air Force, and spanning his extensive tenure at FedEx, where he flew a variety of aircraft before retiring in 2022. He shares insights into the life of a FedEx pilot, discussing the unique challenges of night flying and the efficiency of the hub-and-spoke system. Mark also recalls memorable moments from his military service, such as leading a four-ship flyby at a hometown rodeo, a...2025-01-2246 min
Encourage Mindset#100 | Built to Finish w/ Steven PivnikSteven Pivnik credits his success to his father’s entrepreneurial influence, lifelong learning, and mentorship, embracing the philosophy of being "Built to Finish." Drawing from experiences like training for an Ironman and building discipline through small habits, he highlights how envisioning achievements drives action. He shares his Mount Everest climb as a challenge to quit a bad habit and urges others to focus on meaningful goals to maximize their efforts in life and business.
What are you waiting for? There is NEVER a right time to start anything. Keep pushing yourself to become the be...2025-01-2023 min
Built to FinishCare More and More About Less and Less - Tim Ash - Built to Finish - Episode # 007In this episode of Built to Finish, host, Steven Pivnik, interviews Tim Ash, a leading online marketer, keynote speaker, and author of Unleash Your Primal Brain. The discussion delves into Tim's background in cognitive science and AI, his insights into evolutionary psychology, and how these concepts apply to marketing, decision-making, and human behavior. Tim highlights the importance of habits, explains the brain's focus on survival over happiness, and discusses the ethical use of fear in persuasion. He also shares details about his new keynote, The Initiated Tribe Framework, which aims to tackle modern workforce c...2025-01-1523 min
The Learn-It-All Podcast114: From Soviet Refugee to Completing Ironmans (How He Beat the Odds) | Steven PivnikAre you struggling to scale and exit your business while maintaining work-life balance? In this episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, you’ll hear how an immigrant entrepreneur built and sold a multi-million dollar company over 27 years while completing 17 Ironman races and preparing to climb Mount Everest. Steven Pivnik, founder of Binary Tree and current business advisor, shares his journey from Soviet immigrant to successful tech entrepreneur. The conversation explores how his early experiences shaped his resilience, the parallels between endurance sports and entrepreneurship, and practical advice for business owners looking to scale and exit t...2025-01-0953 min
Built to FinishBeyond the Finish Line: Triumph and Transformation - Mike Reilly - Built to Finish - Episode #006In this episode, host, Steven Pivnik, sits down with Mike Reilly, the legendary voice of Ironman, who has spent over 30 years inspiring athletes worldwide. From announcing over 215 Ironman races to coining the iconic phrase "You are an Ironman," Mike shares the stories behind these moments and the lasting impact they've had on the endurance sports community. He also opens up about his bestselling book Finding My Voice, which highlights powerful Ironman stories, and his role as Chief Motivation Officer at TriDot, an innovative triathlon training platform. Mike discusses his motivational speaking, the evolution of I...2025-01-0838 min
Built to FinishHiring Right, Leading Strong, and Exiting Smart - Leo Fox - Built to Finish - Episode # 005In this week’s episode of Built to Finish, Steven Pivnik talks with Leo Fox, CEO and Founder of Vector Consulting Incorporated. Leo shares his journey from the intelligence community to founding Tenacity Solutions, a cybersecurity company that grew to nearly 200 employees before being sold. The conversation covers key business lessons, including the importance of hiring the right people, having a supportive peer group, and maintaining family involvement. They also explore the emotional and strategic aspects of selling a business, such as managing due diligence and aligning decisions with a successful sale. The episode con...2025-01-0230 min
Built to Finish2025: The Year You Scale New Summits - Built to Finish - Episode # 004In this special holiday episode of the Built to Finish podcast, host Steven Pivnik, reflects on the past year, expressing gratitude and sharing highlights from a series of extreme adventures and races. Key achievements include reaching number one on the Amazon bestseller list with his book Built to Finish and receiving a major endorsement from Mike Reilly, the voice of Ironman.The host recounts participating in Ultraman Florida, a grueling three-day triathlon, and the lessons learned from not completing the race. Other challenges include the Rim to Rim hike in the Grand Canyon, the Empire State Ride...2024-12-2314 min
Built to FinishExiting Your Business with Confidence - Mark Hodges - Built to Finish - Episode # 003In this episode of Built to Finish, Steven hosts Mark Hodges, a seasoned entrepreneur and founding partner at Acresis LLC, who shares his expertise in building, exiting, and advising businesses. Mark discusses his personal journey and offers strategies for successful business exits, highlighting the importance of having the right management team, navigating competition, and preparing for the sales process. He stresses the significance of early planning, understanding valuations, and the crucial role of investment bankers. The conversation also covers managing emotions during transitions, talent and capital management, and potential challenges such as undercapitalization and g...2024-12-1846 min
Built to FinishIn the Mind of a Founder: Bill Thomas on Exit Psychology - Built to Finish - Episode # 002In this episode of Built to Finish, host Steven Pivnik interviews Bill Thomas, the Founder and Managing Partner at Acresis. He has played a key role in the growth of high-performing companies worldwide. They discuss his journey in the advisory industry, including his experience with Equiterra, which he grew to $100 million before selling to KPMG. Bill shares insights on preparing for business exits, stressing the importance of strong financials, showcasing growth potential, and creating strategic value for acquirers. He also highlights potential challenges, such as key account management, intellectual property issues, and maintaining forward-looking f...2024-12-1137 min
Built to FinishUnleashing Your Inner Champion - Igor Yakushko - Built to Finish - Episode # 001In the debut episode of the Built to Finish podcast, host Steven Pivnik sits down with Igor Yakushko, a seasoned athlete and financial expert. Igor reflects on his impressive accomplishments, including completing 35 Ironman triathlons and numerous ultramarathons. He opens up about the mental and physical challenges of endurance racing, the strategies that have helped him thrive, and how he balances his demanding role as Vice President of Apple Bank with his passion for health and wellness, including growing his own food. The conversation also explores the value of embracing the journey, setting achievable personal goals, and finding fulfillment both...2024-12-0449 min
Lets Have This ConversationThe Endurance Sport of Entrepreneurship with: Steven Pivnik
Let's discuss business endurance and its impact on your
company. Business endurance refers to the ability to weather storms, adapt to
changing environments, and maintain consistent growth.
According to a report by the Canadian Federation of
Independent Business (CFIB), 76% of small business owners plan to exit their
businesses within the next decade. The primary reasons for their departure are:
- **Retirement:** 75% of business owners cite retirement as
their reason for leaving.
- **Burnout:** 22% of business owners feel burned out.
- **Stepping back:** 21% of business owners want to re...2024-12-0434 min
Built to FinishBuilt to Finish Podcast TrailerWelcome to Built to Finish! Join host, Steven Pivnik, each week as he explores the journeys of audacious goal setters. This includes experienced Founders, CEOs and entrepreneurs sharing pivotal moments that propelled their success. We’ll also be talking with endurance athletes who push the limits of physical and mental ability. This show is brought to you by Acresis — offering tailored, high-impact advisory services to help founders get to their finish line with a strategic acquisition or majority investor recapitalization.2024-11-2500 min
The Hard Corps Marketing ShowHow to CRUSH Your Next Big Goal ft. Steven Pivnik | Hard Corps Marketing Show | Ep. # 382What key strategies can turn dreams into reality, even when the odds are stacked against you? In this exciting episode of the Hard Corps Marketing Show, I’m thrilled to chat with Steven Pivnik, an incredibly inspiring entrepreneur and athlete. Steven shares his remarkable journey—from being an immigrant and college dropout to completing an astonishing 17 Ironman triathlons and building a successful global tech business.We explore the power of visualization and how it has played a pivotal role in his life, along with the importance of tracking key metrics to drive progress. Steven also emphasizes the...2024-10-2941 min
Get Hooked On A Full Audiobook That Is Simply Spellbinding.Built to Finish by Steven PivnikPlease visithttps://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/2/audible/7671to listen full audiobooks.
Title: Built to Finish
Author: Steven Pivnik
Narrator: Mike Reilly
Format: mp3
Length: 6 hrs and 12 mins
Release date: 10-10-24
Ratings: 5 out of 5 stars, 4 ratings
Genres: Management & Leadership
Publisher's Summary:
In Built to Finish, Steven Pivnik takes you on two journeys: leading his software and services company, Binary Tree, from inception to successful exit and his quest to compete in the IRONMAN® World Championship in Kona, Hawaii. Steven shares how the insights gained from his adventures in triathlon, mountaineering, and ultramarathons apply to anyone’s pursuit of long-term personal and pro...2024-10-106h 12Don’t Miss The Most Spellbinding Full Audiobook Today!Built to Finish by Steven PivnikPlease visithttps://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/2/audible/7671to listen full audiobooks.
Title: Built to Finish
Author: Steven Pivnik
Narrator: Mike Reilly
Format: mp3
Length: 6 hrs and 12 mins
Release date: 10-10-24
Ratings: 5 out of 5 stars, 4 ratings
Genres: Management & Leadership
Publisher's Summary:
In Built to Finish, Steven Pivnik takes you on two journeys: leading his software and services company, Binary Tree, from inception to successful exit and his quest to compete in the IRONMAN® World Championship in Kona, Hawaii. Steven shares how the insights gained from his adventures in triathlon, mountaineering, and ultramarathons apply to anyone’s pursuit of long-term personal and pro...2024-10-106h 12
Win Today#169 | Get What You Want And Embrace The Tough Stuff: Two Key Lessons In Courage & Mental Endurance [Guest Mash-Up]Send us a textSpecial Mash-Up from Episodes 138 & 146 featuring Steven Pivnik and Andy Glaze!Steven, a seasoned Ironman competitor and tech entrepreneur, unveils the power of building an "ask muscle," challenging the notion of happiness tied to professional success. Andy takes us through his unbelievable 220-week streak of running over 100 miles weekly, sharing how he embraces pain as a tool for growth. Learn how to get what you truly want by developing the courage to create a conversation, and continue pushing even when the going gets tough and turn it into something fun!2024-10-0728 min
Plenty of Positivity with Courtney BeckSteven Pivnik, International Keynote Speaker, Best-Selling Author, Business Advisor, and Serial EntrepreneurPlenty of Positivity with Courtney Beck welcomes Steven Pivnik!Steven Pivnik is an international keynote speaker, business advisor, best-selling author, and serial entrepreneur. He shares his journey of immigrating to the United States and building a successful business. During his time with his company, Binary Tree, he negotiated and closed multimillion-dollar licensing deals with tech giants, IBM and Microsoft. He grew Binary Tree to over 200 employees across 12 countries, ultimately leading to a successful exit to a 4-billion-dollar competitor, Quest Software. He started AIP Advisory, LLC to advise select founders and CEO's who are lo...2024-09-0547 min
My Perfect FailureFrom Commodore 64 To Ironman: Building an Empire with Steven Pivnik MPF Discussion with Steven PivnikFrom Commodore 64 To Ironman: Building an Empire with Steven Pivnik About StevenSteven Pivnik is a sought-after keynote speaker, best-selling author, business advisor, and serial entrepreneur specializing in the Information Technology market. He grew his last company, Binary Tree, to over 200 employees across twelve countries before a successful exit to a 4-billion-dollar competitor, Quest Software. When he’s not on the keynote stage or climbing one of the seven summits, Steven advises other f...2024-08-1650 min
The Terry Knight Show: Business, Real Estate And Health61. From Startup to Exit: Navigating the Journey of a Multi-Million Dollar Sale | Steven PivnikEver wondered how some entrepreneurs turn small ideas into massive success stories? Steven Pivnik, an entrepreneur and author, about his experience scaling his company, joins Terry Knight to discuss:In today's fast-paced world, aligning your entrepreneurial journey with practical growth strategies is crucial to navigating business challenges and achieving substantial outcomes.1. Real-world insights: Gain firsthand knowledge from someone who's navigated the treacherous waters of international business expansion.2. Growth strategies: Learn effective methods for scaling your business across multiple markets, ensuring you're not just surviving but thriving.3. Inspiration f...2024-08-1354 min
Keep Hope Alive PodcastBuilt - To - Finish with Steven Pivnik - Finish MindsetSend us a textSteven Pivnik is a sought-after keynote speaker, best-selling author, business advisor, and serial entrepreneur specializing in the Information Technology market. He grew his last company, Binary Tree, to over 200 employees across twelve countries before a successful exit to a 4-billion-dollar competitor, Quest Software.When he’s not on the keynote stage or climbing one of the seven summits, Steven advises other founders and entrepreneurs looking for a similar corporate growth and company sale journey. steven@stevenpivnik.comhttps://stevenpivnik.com/https://www.instagram.com...2024-08-0434 min
Sales and CigarsSales and Cigars | Unlocking Success with Steven Pivnik | Episode 184Join host Walter Crosby in this inspiring episode of the "Sales and Cigars" podcast as he sits down with Steven Pivnik, a dynamic entrepreneur and Ironman competitor. Steven shares his journey from dropping out of college to founding a successful consulting company and competing in the Ironman World Championship. Episode Highlights: Steven's journey from a college dropout to a successful entrepreneur. The importance of focusing on "the one thing" that can make everything else easier. How Steven transitioned from working in corporate America to starting his own company. The...2024-07-2340 min
Find Your Finish Line with Mike ReillyFrom Business to Endurance: Steven Pivnik on Overcoming Challenges and Achieving Big GoalsIn our conversation, Steven discusses his training regimen, the lessons he learned from his family’s immigrant experience, and his relentless pursuit of big goals. He offers advice to aspiring entrepreneurs and endurance athletes, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and surrounding yourself with experienced mentors.
Tune in for a deeply motivating episode as we explore Steven’s story of grit and determination, and get ready to be inspired to find your own finish line.
Thank you for joining us, and remember, you’re the cause of your own experience. Keep your attitude strong, and you’ll alway...2024-07-2047 min
The Pursuit of Purpose149 Built To Finish with Steven Pivnik
Join me on the Pursuit of Purpose podcast as I chat with Steven Pivnik, a successful entrepreneur, bestselling author, and endurance sports enthusiast. Steven shares his journey from computer programming to founding Binary Tree, a niche software company generating over $40 million annually. We discuss his belief in AI, his passion for extreme sports like Ironman challenges, and his plans to climb Mount Everest. Discover the parallels between business and endurance sports, his book "Built to Finish," and his training and acclimatization methods for high-altitude climbing. Don't miss this inspiring conversation!
Book Recommendations:
The One Thing by Gary Keller...2024-06-2438 min
UnbeatableEp. 144: Steven Pivnik- Where Your Comfort Zone Ends, Opportunity BeginsSteven's entrepreneurial spirit was shaped by his immigrant upbringing. "I'm the son of immigrants from the former Soviet Union," he explains. Inspired by his parents' work ethic, he launched his first business to provide services directly to large companies. In this episode, he discusses his experiences with ultra races, mountaineering, and Ironman triathlons, highlighting the challenges and triumphs. Steven also shares insights from building and selling a successful software company, emphasizing perseverance, teamwork, and giving back.How his immigrant roots inspired him and the lessons he learned from his parents—work ethic, family values, an...2024-06-1458 min
Unwind With a Free AudiobookBuilt to Finish: How to Go the Distance in Business and in Life Audiobook by Steven PivnikListen to this audiobook in full for free onhttps://hotaudiobook.com/freeID: 788710
Title: Built to Finish: How to Go the Distance in Business and in Life
Author: Steven Pivnik
Narrator: Mike Reilly
Format: Unabridged
Length: 06:12:18
Language: English
Release date: 05-28-24
Publisher: Findaway Voices
Genres: Business & Economics, Career Development
Summary:
Entrepreneurs, go the distance with an endurance athletes formula for success: the grit to start, the stamina to finish, and the balance to live fully along the way.
Taking a company all the way through scale-up to a successful exit is a grueling, long-haul endeavor, a special kind of endurance...2024-05-286h 12
BookThinkers: Life-Changing Books184. Steven Pivnik | Built to FinishThe World’s #1 Personal Development Book Podcast!
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Today’s episode is sponsored by Ken Rusk, if you’re ready to get UNSTUCK check out the links below:
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In today’s episode we have the pleasure to interview Steven Pivnik, author of “Built to Finish”
Steven is a keynote speaker, best-selling author, business advisor, and serial entrepreneur specializing in the...2024-05-2339 min
Maxed out ManEpisode 64 - Pacing for Prosperity: Steven Pivnik's Journey from Athlete to EntrepreneurSteven Pivnik, an international keynote speaker, best-selling author, business advisor, and serial entrepreneur, discusses the connection between endurance athletics and entrepreneurship. He shares his background as an immigrant from the former Soviet Union and how his parents' entrepreneurial spirit influenced him. Steven talks about his book 'Built to Finish,' which compares entrepreneurship with endurance sports and shares personal stories, lessons learned, and motivation for setting large goals. He also highlights the similarities between planning, preparation, execution, pivots, setbacks, and stamina in both endurance sports and entrepreneurship. In this conversation, Steven Pivnik discusses the importance of envisioning the finish...2024-05-1541 min
Elite Publishing with Melanie Johnson and Jenn FosterWriting as a Business Tool with Author Steven PivnikWelcome to another exciting episode of the Elite Publishing podcast! Today, we're thrilled to host a fascinating session featuring the journey of author and seasoned businessman, Steven Pivnik, who shares his narrative and insights from his latest venture into the publishing world with his book "Built to Finish." Learn the reasons that prompted him to write a book, starting from a motivational keynote at an IT trade show to his aspirations of climbing the corporate and literal mountains, including the Ironman World Championship and his future endeavors towards Mount Everest.
Learn More: https://stevenpivnik.com/
...2024-05-0219 min
GrowthReady PodcastUnleashing Entrepreneurial Excellence with Steven PivnikSteve Mellor sits down with special guest Steven Pivnik in this compelling episode of Career Competitor. Together, they explore a myriad of profound insights that can transform the way you approach your career and personal growth journey. Specifically, listeners can expect insights around the importance of Embracing Your Uniqueness, Value Is King, and Turning Unfinished Business into Fuel.Steven Pivnik is an international keynote speaker, bestselling author, business advisor, and serial entrepreneur specializing in the IT market. He grew his last company, Binary Tree, to over 200 employees across 12 countries before a successful exit to a $4 billion competitor...2024-04-0838 min
Elite Expert Insider PodcastUnleashing the Ironman Mindset in Business with Steven PivnikIn this episode of Elite Expert Insider, we dive into the worlds of endurance sports and business with Ironman athlete and successful entrepreneur, Steven Pivnik. Today, Steven shares his invaluable insights on the parallels between training for an Ironman and running a business—emphasizing the importance of planning, perseverance, and assembling a winning team to cross the finish line. Learn More: https://stevenpivnik.com/ Learn More: https://eliteonlinepublishing.com/ 2024-04-0817 min
How'd it Happen?Steven Pivnik - How to Be Built to FinishThe unfathomable drive required to complete the Ironman World Championship and the tenacity needed to catapult a startup from inception to a successful exit; Steven Pivnik embodies both. As he unfolds his story from his early days as an immigrant, grappling with new beginnings, to his transformation into an acclaimed entrepreneur and endurance athlete, Steven lets us in on the parallels between the discipline required for athletic training and orchestrating a company's growth. His journey is a masterclass in leveraging failure as fuel and the pivotal role of strong relationships and strategic foresight in achieving success.Programming...2024-04-0858 min
#Clockedin with Jordan Edwards#174 - The Ironman Executive Steven Pivnik's LifeSend us a textEver found yourself at the crossroads between comfort and the call of the wild unknown? That's where guest Steven Pivnik stands, a man who transformed the very fabric of his life from the disciplined focus of a successful entrepreneur to the heart-pounding exhilaration of an endurance athlete. This episode is your chance to absorb the raw, riveting tales of Steven's life, a journey marked by the steadfast values of an immigrant family, and how they fueled his rise from an employee to a titan of industry.Strap in for a deep...2024-04-031h 03
The Competitive Edge Podcast: Fatherhood | Fitness | FocusEP 52 | Steven Pivnik: Endurance Athlete | Author of "Built to Finish" | Serial Entrepreneur | International Speaker | Dad of 3 Girls Steven Pivnik Website: https://stevenpivnik.com/ Book Link: "Built to Finish" https://www.amazon.com/Built-Finish-Distance-Business-Life/dp/B0CB9HWSGW Summary In this episode, host Daniel Hickman interviews Steven Pivnik, an endurance dad athlete, speaker, serial entrepreneur, and best-selling author. They discuss Steven's journey from being a couch potato dad to becoming a determined triathlete and mountaineer. Steven shares how he balances his training with family life and the importance of incorporating his family into his races and adventures. He also talks about his experiences summiting Kilimanjaro and the mindset of pushing beyond one's comfort zone. Steven's biggest accomplishment as a f...2024-03-231h 04
The Define Success Podcast with Matt LupiEP177: Overnight Successes Do Not Exist w/ Steven PivnikDive into the world of extraordinary achievements with our latest podcast episode, where we unravel the essence of true success through the inspiring journey of Steven Pivnik. As a celebrated entrepreneur, author, and athlete, Steven has carved a path of remarkable accomplishments, from scaling his venture, Binary Tree, to a global powerhouse with over 200 employees, to challenging his limits in the Ironman World Championships in Hawaii. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone eager to learn from a seasoned achiever who has navigated the highs and lows of success across diverse arenas. Join us as Steven...2024-03-2037 min
Relentless Goal AchieversHow to Turn Your Passion into a Profitable Business | Steven PivnikKey Take Away:✔️The power of resilience and a relentless mindset in overcoming challenges. ✔️Importance of setting stretch goals and believing in their achievability. ✔️Strategic advice on building and managing a successful team for business growth. ✔️The critical role of adaptability and continuous learning in achieving success. ✔️How endurance sports principles can enhance business leadership and personal growth. ✔️"Entrepreneurship is an endurance sport, where true learning and growth begin at the edge of your comfort zone." - Steven Pivnik
Here are 4 ways I can support you right now:Joi...2024-03-141h 50
The Cyber Business PodcastEntrepreneurship as an Endurance Sport With Steven PivnikSteven Pivnik is the Founder and CEO of AIP Advisory, a diverse network of professional advisors dedicated to client-centered planning principles and practices. He brings a wealth of experience garnered over 27 years as the Founder and CEO and, subsequently, Executive Chairman of The Binary Tree, an international technology company. Under his leadership, the company flourished to encompass 200 employees before achieving a successful exit. With AIP Advisory, Acresis, and the Inc. CEO Project, Steven leverages his global enterprise experience and past ventures to guide founders and leaders to success. In his recent book, Built to Finish, Steven shares insights from h...2024-03-1346 min
The My Future Business™ ShowSteven Pivnik2024-03-0633 minWin Today#138 | Manifesting Your Way To 7 Figures: The Power Of Vision, Dreams, & Action Ft. Steven PivnikSend us a textSteven Pivnik, a tech entrepreneur and Ironman World Championship competitor, shares his personal narrative of triumph. From immigrant beginnings to top-tier athlete, his story unravels how setting audacious goals and nurturing the belief in their attainment can lead to unparalleled success. My own voyage of overcoming generational challenges interweaves with his, as we both affirm that success is not a distant dream, but a milestone that beckons anyone bold enough to chase it with unwavering resolve.Connect With Steven!WebsiteThank you for tuning...2024-03-0458 min
Fearless Family BusinessE159: Built to Finish: Lessons in Entrepreneurship and Endurance from Steven PivnikIn this episode, Adam sits down with serial entrepreneur and endurance athlete Steven Pivnik. With incredible achievements in both building a successful business and completing grueling endurance races, Steven has overcome tremendous challenges through grit and perseverance. In today’s discussion, he provides invaluable insights on turning vision into disciplined action through planning, execution, and overcoming fear. Steven also shares how powerful tools like visualization helped propel him to achieve goals that initially seemed impossible.
Here are some power takeaways from today’s conversation:
Immigrating to the US as a child from Eastern Europe
Bu...2024-01-3154 min
Welcome To Eloma#81: Cultivating Stamina and Resilience with Steven PivnikEntrepreneurship is like an endurance sport, requiring not just skill but also grit and unwavering perseverance. In this episode, Kiley Peters is joined by Steven Pivnik, an entrepreneur, Ironman athlete and freshly-minted author. Together, they dive into the valuable lessons Steven shares from his entrepreneurial and endurance sport experiences.Over 26 years, Steven’s business expanded to include 200 employees across 12 countries. After exiting, Steven shares some of his biggest lessons. Steven emphasizes the importance of seizing opportunities in business, sharing how an initially unexciting project evolved into a major revenue stream. He stresses the importance of staying alert an...2024-01-3129 min
The CEO Project PodcastEntrepreneurship is an Endurance Sport In this episode of The Lazy CEO Podcast, host Jim Schleckser interviews Steven Pivnik, former member of The CEO Project and founder of Binary Tree, a successful company he built over 26 years. Steven, also an elite endurance athlete, draws parallels between entrepreneurship and endurance sports, particularly Ironman competitions. He shares how he transitioned from consulting to developing migration products for email systems, which became a multimillion-dollar line of business. Steven emphasizes the importance of setting big goals and perseverance. Despite challenges, he achieved his goal of competing in the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii. Finally, Steven discusses the...2024-01-2933 min
Mindfulness Manufacturing109 An Endurance Athlete's Lessons for the Manufacturing Floor with Steven PivnikWhat does manufacturing leadership have in common with running marathons or climbing mountains? Learn the answer in this episode with guest Steven Pivnik! Steven is an entrepreneur, author, and international speaker, who took his company Binary Tree to great success during his time as CEO. He is also an endurance athlete who has reached the summit of mountains like Kilimanjaro and competed in the grueling Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii. In his soon-to-be-released book Built to Finish: How to Go the Distance in Business and Life, Steven shares his stories about finding success in...2024-01-2426 min
Outside InsightsPursuing Adventure, Entrepreneurship, and Financial Freedom with Steven PivnikSend us a textGet ready to join Chris Burkhard as he hosts a conversation with Steven Pivnik, a total boss in both business and endurance sports. They dive into Steven's journey, where his love for adventure, hustling, and being financially independent all come together. Steven's background as an endurance athlete paved the way for his entrepreneurial pursuits. Prepare to uncover the secret sauce that ties together his athletic feats and business ventures. It's all about pushing your limits, bouncing back from setbacks, and keeping that unbeatable drive for success alive.But it's...2023-06-0951 minThe CEO Project PodcastTime for a Professional CEO? This episode of The Lazy CEO Podcast is about determining when it is time, as a Founder, to bring in an outside CEO to run the company. We have a gentleman named Nick Wilkinson. Nick was a CEO that was brought into a company called Binary Tree that one of our members Steven Pivnik had founded, and he was trying to position for sale and upgrade the talent. Nick was the guy he identified and ended up bringing into the company. Nick’s Background Originally from the UK. After graduation from university, Nick spent the fi...2023-02-1238 min
515 : The Ultra PodcastS4E2 -- Ultraman Florida 2023 Race PreviewSend us a textRace director of Ultraman Florida, Jen McVeay, and the voice of Ultraman, Steve King join me to preview the athletes attending the 2023 version of the race on February 9 - 11. We discuss some of the athletes' race resumes and connections to the Ultra family.In the second part of the episode I have a conversation with one of the athletes - Amy Jo Jenkins from Arkansas. This will be Amy’s first 515 distance event and she shares some of the anxieties of a rookie 515 athl...2023-02-061h 12
Uncaged ShowUNCAGED With Steven PivnikAfter 27 years as the founder and CEO and then Executive Chairman of an international technology company that grew to 200 employees and a successful exit event, Steven now finds himself writing the next chapter of his career. He could not have made it to where I am today without the many advisors by his side, as is the case for most entrepreneurs like himself.
With AIP Advisory, Acresis, as well as the Inc. CEO Project, he is utilizing his unique experience of building and running a global business (as well as his insights from two failed previous attempts) t...2022-09-1621 min
Second Bite PodcastHow 7-Figure License Deals Paved the Way for a Dramatic ExitSteven Pivnik is the Founder and CEO of AIP Advisory, where he helps business founders and CEOs achieve their full potential. Previously, he was the Founder and CEO of Binary Tree, which powered enterprise migrations. During Steven’s 27 years of leading the company, Binary Tree was recognized as one of Inc. 500’s Fastest-Growing Companies, and later, one of Inc. 5000’s Fastest-Growing Companies for 7 years in a row. In this episode… It’s complicated enough just to sell your business. But how do you sell a business when you have multiple 7-figure license deals under your belt?...2022-02-1142 min
The Business Transformation Podcast5 Steps from Startup to Exit. A CEO's TransformationIn today’s episode, we are joined by pioneer Steven Pivnik who runs AIP Advisory and is also an operating partner at Acresis. He is a business-focused professional driven by his passion for helping other leaders to find success in their respective companies. He takes pride in his strategic planning and remarkable execution to assist his fellow CEOs in scaling their business to the next level. Get ready to start your engines because, in this session, we will navigate how he started his own company and dabbled his way to advising business leaders. He also walk...2022-02-0458 min