Shows
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp.49 From Fraternity T-Shirts to Franchise Success: The Nathan Pearce ExperienceOn this episode of Muddy Waters Clear Vision, host Stuart Gilly sits down with Nathan Pearce—a serial entrepreneur whose journey is anything but ordinary. From growing up in the fast-paced world of auctions, learning the art of negotiation and public speaking before he was even a teenager, to launching a multimillion-dollar clothing brand straight out of college, Nathan Pearce shares his inspiring story of resilience, reinvention, and leadership. Discover how a Shark Tank deal with Mark Cuban almost changed everything, the hard lessons learned from legal battles and bankruptcy, and how those trials helped shape his vision for Pearce...
2025-12-1642 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp.48 Unlocking Dual Use Innovation: How Louisiana’s Entrepreneurs Are Spurring Economic GrowthLouisiana’s Dual-Use Innovation Is Heating Up—And You Need To Know About It!In this special episode, host Stuart Gilly is joined by Grant Rogers and Jacob Mahaffey to explore the fascinating world of dual use technologies and the vital role they’re playing in Louisiana’s entrepreneurial landscape.1/ Meet the changemakers: Grant Rogers & Jacob Mahaffey. With backgrounds in Army, medtech, and venture capital, they’re on a mission to fund the businesses that make Louisiana tick.2/ What’s “dual-use”? Picture the iconic Higgins Boat—once a staple of WWII, now a symbol for tech with BOTH military and civilian impact. Grant...
2025-12-1047 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp.47 Overcoming Chaos and Finding Clarity: Rob Treppendahl’s Path to True LeadershipRob Treppendahl grew up in a family where hard work and love were guiding principles, instilled early on by his father's words and example. With a strong emphasis on taking risks and striving for meaningful goals, Rob learned not only the value of dedication but also the confidence that comes from unwavering family support. Encouraged to pursue his dreams and embrace an entrepreneurial spirit, he carried forward the lessons of agency, resilience, and self-belief, always backed by the assurance that his family would be there no matter where his ambitions led him.1/ Meet Rob Treppendahl, Baton Rouge native, CEO...
2025-11-1140 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp.46 Beyond Spreadsheets: Armand Michaud Explores Leadership, Team Building, and Community ServiceOn this episode of Muddy Waters Clear Vision, host Stuart Gilly sits down with Armand Michaud, principal partner at Attracct Accounting Advisors. Born and raised in Baton Rouge, Armand shares his journey from humble beginnings—including early career influences and unlikely turns—to leading a fast-growing accounting advisory firm serving Louisiana businesses. Stuart and Armand dive deep into formative leadership lessons, the pivotal moments that shaped Armand’s career, and how he’s navigated the challenges (and opportunities) of becoming a business owner and CEO. Together, they reflect on building high-performing teams, the evolving demands of leadership, and the transfor...
2025-11-041h 01
CEO: Behind the ScenesThe water crisis no-one is talking aboutWater security is the crisis hiding in plain sight – and most of us don't realize how close we are to the edge. In this episode, Francois Gouws, Managing Director of TRILITY, reveals why major cities are heading into another drought, how 100-year-old underground infrastructure is quietly failing beneath our feet and why the water we take for granted could become our scarcest resource. Gouws discusses why desalination and recycled water are no longer optional and how AI and robotics are revolutionizing the way we predict pipe failures before disaster strikes. Packed with insights on climate ad...
2025-10-301h 00
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp.45 Beyond Competition: NuReady Health’s Mission to Serve Clients Across the Nation1/ Ever heard of fierce rivals teaming up for the greater good? Meet Sarah Taylor & Bryan Hollingsworth. Two nurse-entrepreneurs who ran some of the top occupational health clinics along the Gulf Coast… and shocked their industry by joining forces. 2/ Their origin story? NOT your average LinkedIn DM. They met at a crawfish boil in Sulphur, LA—introduced by a client who saw their similarities. One catch: “She’s your direct competitor in Baton Rouge,” he warned Bryan. 3/ You’d expect tension, right? Instead, over some beers on a picnic table, instant professional chemistry sparked. The kind where “talking...
2025-10-2851 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp.44 The Evolution of Southern Marsh: Scaling a Niche Apparel Brand Against the OddsOn today’s episode of Muddy Waters Clear Vision, I sat down with Matt Valiollahi, founder and CEO of Southern Marsh. From flipping used cars as a teen in Baton Rouge to building a nationally recognized apparel brand, Matt shared how grit, mentorship, and a relentless focus on learning fueled his entrepreneurial journey. We discussed the messy startup days, navigating manufacturing disasters, and how Southern Marsh pivoted from wholesale to thriving brick-and-mortar retail. If you’re building a business from the ground up or love real stories of resilience, you won’t want to miss this one!Matt Valiol...
2025-10-211h 00
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp.43 Small Town Roots and Big Dreams: Julie’s Blueprint for Growth and Giving Back1/ Meet Julie Laperouse – keynote speaker, corporate trainer, founder of Screaming Peacock, and living proof that betting on yourself CAN pay off. Her story? Packed with courage, imposter syndrome, hilarious detours, and Cajun spirit.👇2/ Julie grew up in Jennings, LA, raised by a hardware salesman dad & a teacher mom. Building furniture with her dad, inspired by her mom’s impact – you could say making things & teaching people run deep in her DNA.3/ Her first hustle? Babysitting (turns out, she only REALLY likes her kids 😉). But at just 14, she was ALSO a COUNTRY RADIO HOST in a red barn, thanks to a small-town...
2025-10-141h 02
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp.42 The Power of Mentorship: Lessons from Jay Campbell on Leadership and Baton Rouge1/ Let’s talk about mentorship, not just as a buzzword, but as a powerful force that shapes leaders and communities. In their recent conversation, J.H. “Jay” Campbell, Jr., a retired business executive, consultant to family-owned and corporate enterprises, and board member for both for-profit and nonprofit organizations, and Stuart Gilly shared real gems about what true mentorship looks like (hint: it’s not what you might expect).2/ Jay didn’t even realize he was being “mentored” early on. He just admired, learned from, and followed the example of people he respected—WWII vets who handled adversity with calm, virtue, & streng...
2025-09-1654 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp.41 Beyond Numbers: Attracct’s John Roberts Talks Values, Growth, and Giving Back1/ Meet John Roberts, the CPA challenging everything you expect from accounting. From walk-on football player to co-founder of @AttracctAccountingAdvisors, his journey is anything but boring. This Muddy Waters Clear Vision episode is packed with lessons on teams, leadership, risk, and legacy2/ John’s #1 career advice? “Worry more about just getting on the right team and less about your role on that team.” Whether you are on the bench or a starter, being around winners will shape your future more than titles.3/ Growing up, John saw the highs and lows of entrepreneurship firsthand. His father ran a business, and often strugg...
2025-08-2640 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp.40 Redefining Patient Care: The Story Behind Lake Men’s Health With Dr. Curtis Chastain1/ Meet Dr. Curtis Chastain: Baton Rouge native, internal medicine physician, disruptor. His mission? Helping guys live a LONGER, healthier life—by finding and fixing what might take them out early. 2/ What’s his #1 rule (courtesy of mentor John Barton): Answer the phone when people call. Be present. Availability = leadership in practice, not just medical care. 3/ Dr. Chastain’s approach is different—by design. He ditched the grind of traditional medicine to build deeper patient relationships, slow down, and TEACH. “Doctors are teachers at heart,” he says. 4/ The birth of a new business model: He calls it “access, convenience, efficiency.” It started as a gut...
2025-08-2146 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp.39 Navigating Louisiana's Film Industry: Patrick Mulhearn's Entrepreneurial JourneyNote: This episode was recordedjust before the Louisiana legislative fiscal session in April. Since then, thelegislature has strengthened the state’s film incentive, introducing aflat and more flexible 40% tax credit. These changes, along with newaspects of the recently passed "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" inCongress, could make investing in Louisiana’s film industry even moreattractive.Dive into the world of film andentrepreneurship with Patrick Mulhearn! 1/ Meet the "film guy"Patrick Mulhearn and let's explore his path together! 2/ Who is Patrick Mulhearn? He's aNatchez, Mississippi native with a deep-rooted love for the film industry.Today, h...
2025-07-1830 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp. 38 Building a Legacy: Mawe Takyi on Leadership and CompassionThis week we are sharing Mawe Life’s incredible journey, from humble beginnings to becoming a powerful leader and changemaker. You won’t want to miss this inspiring story of grit, growth, and purpose.1/15 Meet Mawe Takyi, a brilliant entrepreneur who is the founder and managing partner of Asempa Wealth Advisors in Baton Rouge. His story is one of resilience, inspiration, and leadership.2/15 Born in Liberia to a family originally from Ghana, Mawe's journey wasn't easy. His family faced a civil war, forcing them to move back home to Ghana. His early life was shaped by incredible challenges.3/15 One of M...
2025-07-1034 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp. 37 Leadership Lessons from Myles Laroux: From Tiger Band to Leadership SuccessDive into the inspiring journey of Myles Laroux, a partner at Highland Wealth in Baton Rouge, in the latest episode of "Muddy Waters Clear Vision" podcast! Prepare to be moved by his tale of grit, resilience, and impact. 1/ From humble beginnings in Shreveport to becoming a successful financial advisor, Myles's path wasn't always easy. He grew up with a single mom and had to navigate financial challenges early on. Yet, it was these experiences that shaped his relentless drive. 2/ Myles talks about his first exposure to entrepreneurship through his aunt and uncle, who ran a lo...
2025-05-2250 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp. 36 Turning Adversity into Opportunity: Josh Langlois' Path to Entrepreneurship1/ Meet Josh Langlois, the powerhouse behind Langlois Construction, a commercial masonry contractor based in Baton Rouge. Josh's story is a tale of ambition, grit, and transformation.
2/ Josh started his journey with an ambition to be an entrepreneur and found his calling in the construction world. His journey wasn't a straight path but rather a tapestry of life lessons and twists.
3/ Born and raised in Baton Rouge with a strong family background, Josh's early life was influenced by his banker dad and teacher mom. Yet, entrepreneurship was his true calling from a young age.
4...
2025-01-301h 00
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp. 35 Transforming Youth Baseball: The Story of Matthew Mistretta and Total Diamond PerformanceDive into the world of Total Diamond Performance with Matthew Mistretta, reshaping baseball coaching for young athletes!
1/ Meet Matthew Mistretta, founder of Total Diamond Performance, on a mission to transform the baseball world in Louisiana. Catch a glimpse of the holistic approach he is championing!
2/ From the big leagues to entrepreneurship! Matthew's journey from working with top MLB teams to launching his own venture is inspiring and filled with life-changing insights.
3/ "Why can't we bring professional style development to youth?" Matthew asked, and then created a space merging MLB-style development with youth baseball...
2025-01-2428 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp. 34 Leadership and Inspiration: Michael Scarbrough's Entrepreneurial VisionEver wondered what it takes to transition from a corporate good life to risk-it-all entrepreneurship, and then making an impactful community comeback? Meet Michael Scarbrough, a hustler turned visionary entrepreneur, who’s transforming lives and business landscapes!
1/ Beginnings aren’t always glamorous: From being underestimated and laid-off to a key corporate executive, Michael learned respect isn't given; it’s earned with patience, hard work, and perseverance.
2/ Climbing the corporate ladder: Michael started in construction, gradually mastering trades and launching crucial divisions with Excel Modular Scaffold, eventually managing nationwide operations!
3/ Lead by example: Michael’s leader...
2025-01-1631 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp. 33 Finding Success through Struggles: Adam Beary's Entrepreneurial InsightsFrom "Muddy Waters" to Clear Skies: Navigating the Entrepreneurial Journey with Adam Beary!
1/ Picture this: You're an explorer in uncharted territories, facing skepticism and doubting your path. Sounds familiar? Welcome to the life of an entrepreneur as told by Adam Beary!
2/ Embrace the unexpected: Adam believes in the thrill of not everything going smoothly and the camaraderie it brings. It's in those bumps and turns that true innovation is born!
3/ Jim Collins says, "Don't die." Resilience isn't just a trait; it's a mindset. Keep pushing forward every single day, and know it's okay...
2024-12-0544 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp. 32 Building Strong Businesses: Toby Massengale's Insight into Entrepreneurship and GrowthDiving deep into the journey of successful entrepreneurs! In today's episode of Muddy Waters Clear Vision, we explore the inspiring story of Toby Massengale, a true Louisiana entrepreneur. Let's uncover the muddiest moments of his career and the enduring impact he aims to make. Despite a rocky start with his father's business failing, Toby's journey is one of redemption and resilience. From working to finance growth to overcoming setbacks, his lessons are a roadmap for aspiring entrepreneurs. What stands out the most is Toby's focus on people - whether it's the impact of his father's work ethic or the...
2024-11-0726 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp. 31 A Journey of Humble Curiosity and Personal Growth with Zaheer PoptaniDive into the world of entrepreneurship with Zaheer Poptani on the latest episode of "Muddy Waters Clear Vision"! Born in the UK, Zaheer's journey spans continents and industries. Hear how his multicultural background is shaping the future of financial services.
1/ Leadership & Accountability Zaheer Poptani believes that leadership goes beyond titles. It’s about taking initiative and fostering a culture of accountability, where alignment and teamwork take center stage! No silos or blame games, just collaborative success.
2/ Incentives & Motivation Understanding what drives your team and aligning their goals with the company vision is key! Zaheer highlights in...
2024-10-2438 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp. 30 Building Success: Calvin Fabre's Entrepreneurial Voyage in LouisianaThis week's podcast features the incredible journey of Baton Rouge native, Calvin Fabre, and his rise as a successful entrepreneur. Let's dive into the highlights of his inspiring story and the invaluable insights he shared with host Stuart Gilly.
Calvin Fabre's roots in Baton Rouge run deep, from attending Westdale Elementary to Catholic High, and then Southeastern Louisiana University. His Louisiana upbringing laid the foundation for his entrepreneurial spirit.
Set against the backdrop of a family of entrepreneurs, including brothers in the car business, a brother in camshaft manufacturing and a sister in the travel...
2024-08-1435 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp. 29 Building Bridges Through Art: Jason Andreasen's Vision for Baton Rouge's Creative CommunityUnveiling the Power of Art in Baton Rouge
1/ Jason Andreasen, CEO of Baton Rouge Gallery, shared how art classes have impacted kids, boosting their self-confidence during art shows & receptions. He shared how incredible it is to see the positive influence of art on children's emotional well-being!
2/ The emotional aspect of the artwork struck a chord with Stuart Gilly. It’s amazing to hear about the transformative effect art has had on kids struggling with body image & depression. Art truly has the power to heal!
3/ Jason highlighted the need for community support and investment in...
2024-07-0945 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp. 28 From Arkansas to Louisiana: Mark Goodson's Path as a Landscape Architect and Community LeaderThe latest episode of Muddy Waters Clear Vision podcast is a must-listen for all aspiring entrepreneurs and leaders! In this episode, I sat down with Mark Goodson, a landscape architect and one of the owners of CSRS, a multidisciplinary consulting firm. Let’s dive into the highlights of their insightful conversation.
Mark Goodson shares how he was influenced by his parents' work ethics and the value of hard work, guiding him to be a successful business owner. He emphasizes the importance of finding passion and making a difference, not just focusing on making a living.
Ma...
2024-07-0924 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp. 27 The Journey of Success: Steve Maher's Insights on Partnerships and EntrepreneurshipDiscover the insightful journey of successful entrepreneur Steve Maher on the latest episode of Muddy Waters Clear Vision. Learn how partnership, creative problem-solving, and community impact play key roles in Steve's architectural career.
1. Discover how partnerships, creative problem-solving, and community impact have been pivotal in shaping Steve's remarkable architectural career.
2. Steve discusses challenges, triumphs, and the power of servant leadership and partnership in business that have defined his entrepreneurial path.
3. In this engaging conversation, Steve highlights the importance of communication, financial management, and creative solutions in business partnerships.
4. Steve dives into...
2024-07-0233 min
TENTEN: Navigating High-Consequence Business Problems with Brody DerenIn this episode of the TEN Podcast, we're joined by special guest Brody Deren, entrepreneur, investor, and Chief Strategy Officer at NTC partner and donor Trility. Brody shares his journey in the technology service industry, from his early days in staff augmentation to co-founding Dynamo and eventually joining Trility. He discusses the complex and ambitious digital transformation projects he leads, including a major initiative to double a household-name manufacturing company's business through technology. Tune in to hear insights on culture transformation, the challenges of high-stakes consulting, the power of collaboration, and the unique dynamics of the Nebraska-Iowa tech ecosystem.
2024-06-2611 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp.26 Grooming a Bright Future: Amanda Floyd Bovino's Entrepreneurial Journey
1. Starting as a young entrepreneur at 20, Amanda has dedicated a decade to elevating pet care in Baton Rouge, embodying integrity, impact, and love for what she does.
2. From dreams of marine exploration to her father's business influence, Amanda's journey is a testament to following passion and making a difference.
3. Despite challenges like rapid growth, personal loss, and navigating the daily grind, Amanda tackles them head-on with determination, endurance, and the will to push through difficult times.
4. Amanda's management style, focused on providing others with tools, open communication, and making a difference, has led...
2024-06-1841 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp. 25 Entrepreneurial Resilience: Chris King's Journey from Adversity to Business Impact and Community Leadership
1/ Chris opened up about his childhood, transitioning from affluence to hardship, and the invaluable lessons he learned about the value of hard work at a young age. His story is a testament to the strength found through adversity.
2/ One of the most powerful influences in Chris's life is his father, who instilled in him the importance of doing any job to the best of one's ability. He also shared the profound impact of Rudyard Kipling's poem, "If", emphasizing the significance of integrity and perseverance.
3/ Chris spoke about the cultural significance of sharing a meal and...
2024-06-1043 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp.24 Inside the Interiors: Cindy Tiek and TIEK BYDAY's Design Philosophy and Business Story
1/ Cindy discovered her passion for interior design after considering a master's in architecture. Working for design firms, she accrued the necessary hours to become a licensed interior designer, ultimately forming TIEK BYDAY with her daughter and business partner.
2/ The journey wasn't without its challenges. Cindy learned to run a business from scratch, emphasizing the importance of educating clients about billing for services and the need for industry mentors. Her commitment to community involvement sets TIEK BYDAY apart!
3/ Cindy opens up about her Louisiana upbringing, her transition from engineer to interior designer, and her dedication to...
2024-06-0431 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp. 23 Charting New Horizons: David Maples' Devotion to AI, Technology, and Community Empowerment1/ David Maples is a tech & marketing guru with an amazing journey from a humble upbringing to becoming the CTO of Catapult Creative Media.
2/ With a strong work ethic instilled by his grandfather, David learned pivotal leadership lessons from his mentors. Responsibility, accountability, and empowering employees were key values that shaped his approach.
3/ David and his wife founded Catapult using their savings intended for law school! Taking an epic leap of faith into entrepreneurship, David now runs Catapult as CTO and is also the CEO of Kalre Technologies.
4/ Authenticity, hard work, and genuine expertise...
2024-05-3155 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp. 22 A Vision for Impact: Pete Bush's Journey of Growth and Giving at Horizon Financial Group1/ Growing up on a farm in Indiana to founding a successful wealth management company, Pete Bush's story is one of perseverance and determination. His rural upbringing taught him the value of hard work and instilled in him a drive for a better life.
2/ From early influencers in his community to pivotal moments in college, Pete shares how he was inspired by those who earned respect, provided opportunities and cared for their families. These influencers set the stage for his future success in the business world.
3/ Pete's journey is not just about professional success, but also...
2024-05-2041 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp. 21 Lessons from the Farm: BIll & Andy Bush's Journey to Servant Leadership1/ In a recent episode of Muddy Waters Clear Vision podcast, we welcomed Bill and Andy Bush, of Horizon Financial Group. Their story takes us on a journey from a tough childhood on a farm in Indiana to successful leadership in Louisiana.
2/ Growing up, the Bush family faced massive challenges in pig farming, battling through tough winters and surviving a blizzard in 1978. But from those tough times emerged valuable lessons in discipline, hard work, and the importance of community living in rural Indiana.
3/ They reflect on the mentors and coaches from their small town who played...
2024-04-3037 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp. 20 Thriving through Challenges: Courtney Sparkman's Entrepreneurial Journey and Legacy of MentorshipAre you ready to be inspired by the amazing journey of a serial entrepreneur and CEO, Courtney Sparkman? Join us as we dive into Courtney's story on the "Muddy Waters Clear Vision" podcast.
1/ Let's start with a deep dive into Courtney Sparkman's fascinating entrepreneurial journey. From growing up on the south side of Chicago to embracing his family's entrepreneurial spirit, his story is one of resilience and determination.
2/ Courtney's 6th business, a SaaS company serving security guard agencies worldwide, was born from the challenges he faced in his previous venture. His passion for solving problems...
2024-04-1733 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp. 19 Purpose-Driven Entrepreneurship: Exploring Julio Melara's Impact and Leadership in LouisianaGet ready to be inspired by the incredible journey of Julio Melara, CEO and founder of Melara Enterprises, as he shares valuable insights on entrepreneurship, leadership, and making a positive impact in the community.
1/ Julio Melara's story is a testament to resilience, hard work, and the power of mentorship. Raised by a single mother in Honduras, he learned the value of integrity, perseverance, and a strong work ethic from an early age.
2/ Despite facing financial struggles, Julio worked tirelessly to put himself through college, followed his passion, and climbed the ranks in the business community...
2024-04-0930 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp. 18 Louisiana's Construction Visionary: Shane Kirkpatrick's Leadership Legacy in the Industrial SectorGet ready for an inspiring journey through the life and career of Shane Kirkpatrick, the President of GROUP Contractors. During our conversation, Shane shares his incredible story and insights. Let's dive in!
1/ Shane Kirkpatrick started in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and his journey has been anything but conventional. From being "asked to leave" high school to serving in the Army and remodeling buildings while attending LSU, Shane's path to success was filled with unexpected turns.
2/ Shane's time in the Army played a pivotal role in shaping his discipline and leadership style. From the tough days of...
2024-03-2724 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp. 17 The Power of Supportive Leadership: Mark Emonet's Approach at Lipsey's1/ From building computers in the '90s to leading a thriving business, Mark Emonet shares insights and experiences that have shaped his journey.
2/ Mark is big on supporting his team! He believes in equipping them for success and providing unwavering support without being intrusive - a true leader in every sense.
3/ Reflecting on transitioning from United Companies to Lipsey's, Mark embraced the challenges and found opportunities for growth and success - a testament to his tenacity and adaptability.
4/ Financial literacy and relationship-building are his keys to success. Mark emphasizes understanding financial statements and...
2024-03-2727 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp. 16 Leading the Charge: Henry Hayes Explores AI Education, Servant Leadership, and Business Innovation1/ Henry Hayes walks us through the world of emerging technology, highlighting the "essential eight" at Disrupt Ready. From drone delivery to 3D printing, the importance of staying ahead in technology is crystal clear!
2/ Henry stresses the need for innovation and change to elevate customer service – a vital key to achieving success. His excitement for the future is contagious, infusing hope and determination into every word spoken.
3/ The convergence of challenges and progress echoes the podcast's theme of "Muddy Waters," beautifully captured by Henry. The journey of innovation is indeed challenging but ultimately achievable, much like th...
2024-03-2737 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp. 15 Redefining Impact: Ethan Bush’s Vision for Community Collaboration and Expanding Missions1/ Did you know that Ethan Bush, the founder of Thirty Three Strategies, spent 11 years in healthcare fundraising before starting his own company? His experience at Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center along with his family’s entrepreneurial spirit, influenced his inspiring journey.
2/ Ethan was inspired by his family's dedication and their selfless acts of kindness. His grandfather's generosity and willingness to help people truly molded his outlook, rooted in compassion and service.
3/ Raising money for hospitals and running nonprofits honed Ethan's leadership approach, centered on giving and helping others. He's now using his 20+ years of experience to...
2024-03-1143 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp. 14 Leading with Purpose: John Moran's Journey from Business Owner to Community AdvocateIn this enlightening episode, John Moran unfolds his journey from a dedicated hard worker to a thriving business owner. Remarkably humble, he doesn't see himself as an entrepreneur, but rather as a driven individual.
1/ John's narrative is deeply intertwined with family and mentorship. Drawing from his father's business ownership and early coaching experiences, he shapes his leadership style—a testament to the impact of influential figures.
2/ Navigating the challenges of the great recession and personal trials, John's resilience and self-awareness shine. Commitment to personal development, mentorship, and engagement with Vistage transforms his leadership and benefits hi...
2024-03-0123 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp. 13 Beyond the Kitchen: Jay Ducote's Inspiring Entrepreneurial Path in Food, Media, and Mentorship1/ Jay Ducote is a true example of entrepreneurial spirit! From owning a restaurant to starting a culinary product line, his career in the food and beverage industry has been nothing short of remarkable.
2/ Jay reflects on the changes in social media and how it has impacted his career, transitioning from blogging to creating content and seizing opportunities in the food and beverage space.
3/ Growing up in Baton Rouge and Houston, Jay studied at LSU and taught high school before diving into policy research and grant writing for health information technology. His varied background has been...
2024-03-0150 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp. 12 The Power of Adaptation: Justin Obney's Leadership and Entrepreneurial Insights1/ Justin Obney unpacks the current and future impact of AI on leadership. How does AI break down communication barriers and reduce the barrier to learning? Justin shares his perspective on the transformative power of AI in his leadership style and communication dynamics.
2/ What's the pathway to entrepreneurship and how do the muddy moments shape clarity and vision? Justin shares his journey and the pivotal moments that paved the way to his entrepreneurial success.
3/ Transitioning from a technical leadership style to a more behind-the-scenes role - a challenge Justin Obney faces head-on. How does he delegate...
2024-03-0150 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp. 11 The Emergent Visionary: Nick Speyrer's Quest for Success at the Helm of Baton Rouge's Emergent Method1/ Nick Speyrer expresses amazement at the success of Emergent Method, reflecting on a positive shift in trajectory. His emphasis on delivering great work and the upcoming rebrand and repositioning of the company within the Baton Rouge market is truly exciting.
2/ Stuart praises Nick and the company for creating professionals who contribute to the community. Nick's dedication to empowering young professionals and prioritizing community involvement is truly commendable and sets an excellent example for businesses.
3/ The discussion delves into Nick's journey at Emergent Method, highlighting the challenges faced, including moments of high turnover and lack of...
2024-02-2344 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp.10 Rolfe McCollister: A Legacy of Family, Leadership, and Generosity1/ Rolfe McCollister shares his inspiring journey. One standout moment was his reflection on joining 14 boards in 1989, despite having young children. When asked about this, he delved into the powerful influences that shaped his choices. Rolfe attributed his involvement in numerous boards to his parents' volunteerism, which instilled the spirit of giving back.
2/ Rolfe highlighted the pivotal importance of defining success and setting priorities. He candidly shared his past overcommitment and underscored the need for individuals to define their version of success and prioritize wisely.
3/ His advice to young professionals to slow down, not overcommit, and...
2024-02-221h 00
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp.9 Guided by Purpose: Sherin Dawud's Evolution from Business Owner to Community AdvocateWe kick things off by quoting "Think and Grow Rich," underlining the significance of speaking your goals into existence. It's a powerful reminder that verbalizing your dreams can set their manifestation into motion!
1/ Sherin Dawud describes the nitty-gritty of entrepreneurship, sharing her journey as the CEO of Neuro, an impact agency with a dynamic blend of projects and initiatives. From digital campaigns to large-scale events.
2/ Sherin shares the raw reality of entrepreneurship. From the challenges of building a firm from scratch to navigating the daunting dual role of building a business and doing the work.
2024-02-2039 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp.8 Uncovering Value: Brian Daley's Insights on Building, Exiting, and Growing Profitable BusinessesIn a recent episode of Muddy Waters Clear Vision, I had the pleasure of hosting the incredible Brian Daley, Managing Director at Founders Advisors. We delved into insightful conversations about building successful businesses and navigating potential exits.
1/ Brian Daley's journey into finance and M&A began with a surprising catalyst: a mere $10,000 from a scratch-off ticket. This moment sparked his passion for trading and understanding the value of companies, laying the foundation for his remarkable career. A true testament to seizing opportunities!
2/ Brian shared a transformative chapter in his life, recounting professional burnout after a 7...
2024-02-2046 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp.7 The Circle of Growth: John Ragsdale's Path to Entrepreneurial Triumph1/ Starting from humble beginnings in South Georgia, John Ragsdale's passion for IT and technology led him to found TAP Innovations, revolutionizing organizational processes with digital solutions.
2/ Ragsdale emphasizes the transformative power of even small changes, highlighting how a 5-10% improvement can lead to exponential profitability growth for businesses.
3/ One paramount lesson John learned? The significance of having a mentor or coach. He stresses the importance of learning from others and being open to feedback for entrepreneurial success.
4/ John shares a heartwarming childhood story of how his father, a sports coach and model of...
2024-02-2047 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEp.6 The Intersection of Sports and Entrepreneurship: Collis Temple's Clear Vision for SuccessToday, I had the pleasure of interviewing the incredible Collis Temple, who shared some truly inspiring insights. His mission? To impact people in life-changing ways every single day. Let's dive into his powerful wisdom!
1/ Collis Temple emphasized the importance of small gestures that can make a huge difference, like simply smiling and saying hello. These simple acts of kindness can brighten someone's day and leave a lasting impact.
2/ Collis Temple's father had this incredible ability to make everyone feel special. His genuine interest in people, his words of encouragement, and his ability to connect without...
2023-12-1648 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEP.5 An Athlete's Journey to Entrepreneurship: Steve Mellor's Path to SuccessJoin me as I recap a fascinating conversation on the Muddy Waters Clear Vision podcast with the incredible entrepreneur and coach, Steve Mellor!
1/ Steve Mellor emphasizes the importance of feedback and being open to improvement. It's not about having one savior figure, but rather embracing feedback from multiple sources.
2/ Steve believes in trial and error and encourages clients to explore ideas without immediate dismissal. It's all about allowing those ideas to breathe and grow, without shutting them down prematurely.
3/ Steve Mellor opens up about the personal battle with self-judgment and the importance of...
2023-12-1442 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEP.4 From Childhood Blueprints to Building Legacies: Russell Alleman's Construction JourneyJoin us on the latest episode of "Muddy Waters Clear Vision" with our guest Russell Alleman, a Louisiana entrepreneur who turned his passion for construction into a successful career!
1/ Russell Alleman, a native of Rain, Louisiana, got his contractor's license at the age of 29! But his journey to success wasn't easy. He shares how he overcame obstacles and built his business from the ground up.
2/ Russell initially worked as an internal auditor but felt unfulfilled. He decided to follow his passion for construction and make a change. His father's entrepreneurial spirit and a childhood love...
2023-12-1431 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEP.3 Making the Grade: How MasteryPrep is Changing the Game for Low-Income Students with Craig GehringWelcome to another exciting episode of "Muddy Waters, Clear Vision". Imagine a tutoring market that mainly targets high-performing students. That's where our story begins. Our guest, Craig Gehring, would charge the same rate as cutting grass and saw it as an opportunity to make a difference for low-income students.
1/ Building a business model around serving low-income students wasn't easy, but Craig was determined.
2/ Louisiana mandated all students to take the ACT. The idea of using a mastery-based approach just made sense. And thus, MasteryPrep was born – a program that has transformed countless lives and opened up...
2023-08-2747 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEP.2 Unleashing Clear Vision: Jay Dixon’s Lessons in Teamwork, Leadership, and SuccessWelcome back to another episode of "Muddy Waters Clear Vision"! In today's episode, we have a very special interview with Jay Dixon, the founder of Coretechs.
1/ We start by discussing the importance of playing a specific role in team sports, particularly in football, and how that translates into building a successful business.
2/ Jay shares his experiences as an athlete and the impact it has had on his personal and professional life. We admire the team he has built at Coretechs and his exceptional leadership skills, especially his focus on the client experience and promoting accountability...
2023-08-2636 min
Muddy Waters, Clear VisionEP.1 From the Court to the Office: How Sports and Coaching Shape Career Success with Architect Marcus WilliamsWelcome to Muddy Waters, Clear Vision! In today's episode, we have the incredible Marcus Williams! Get ready to be inspired as Marcus shares his incredible journey of building confidence and discovering his true calling.
1/ We discussed Marcus' journey from self-doubt to becoming a successful architect, breaking barriers, and the importance of never settling.
2/ Marcus shared that although he didn't dream of running his own business initially, starting his firm quickly became like a fairy tale he couldn't even imagine.
3/ Growing up, Marcus didn't have anyone to guide him on the potential of his...
2023-08-2555 min
Bâton SâlonA New Normal in Banking and Finance: Exploring Human-Centric Transformation — Part 4Check out the fourth episode in our special series with Trility Consulting, A New Normal in Banking and Finance: Exploring Human-Centric Transformation. Moderated by Kavilash Chawla, this podcast features Amy Hunold-VanGundy, Head of Talent Management at Principal Financial Group and Brad Rasmussen, CIO at Merchants Bonding Company along with regular guests Wade Hampton Britt, IV and Matthew D Edwards.In past episodes, we have discussed the necessity of technology to complement human processes and actions to minimize points of friction and create flow. We have also explored...
2020-07-1748 minBâton SâlonA New Normal in Banking and Finance: Exploring Human-Centric Transformation — Part 3Listen the third podcast in our multi-part series with Trility Consulting, A New Normal in Banking and Finance: Exploring Human-Centric Transformation.Moderated by Kavilash Chawla, the discussion with Wade Hampton Britt, IV and Matthew D Edwards explores how the virtualization of customer experience has lead to changes in who is driving human-centric transformation. The episode further considers the concept of managing data in a virtual world, ways that companies like Uber are guiding trends in customer experience, and the ensuing implications on the virtual workplace and data management.
2020-06-1943 minBâton SâlonA New Normal in Banking and Finance: Exploring Human-Centric TransformationThis salon, moderated by Kavi Chawla and featuring Wade Britt and Matthew Edwards, considers how data and technology support the transition towards a distributed workforce, particularly during and post- COVID-19. This podcast is part of a series produced by Bâton Global and Trility Consulting discussing strategies and tactics to guide financial services organizations in responding to industry headwinds and pressures including those amplified or created by COVID-19.
2020-05-1536 min