Shows
StartupNation RadioMichigan's First Smart Highway7-2-24: CEO and co-founder of Cavnue Tyler Duvall joins Mitch and the crew to discuss Michigan's first smart highway.2024-07-0305 min
StartupNation RadioBernie Smilovitz Signs Off7-2-24: Newly retired sportscaster Bernie Smilovitz joins the show to discuss what's next after nearly 40 years in broadcasting comes to an end.2024-07-0310 min
StartupNation RadioClint Black Coming To Town7-2-24: Country music star Clint Black joins Mitch and the crew to discuss his upcoming show at Hollywood Casino at Greektown.2024-07-0305 min
StartupNation RadioKapnick Insurance: Safety First - Risk Solutions for the Construction IndustryMichael Spath of Kapnick Insurance discusses construction with practice group leader, Jason McLelland of Kapnick Insurance. Here are highlights from that conversation.2023-02-2212 min
StartupNation RadioKapnick Insurance: Melissa Matich Discusses Private Client InsuranceMelissa Matich of Kapnick Insurance discusses the benefits of private client insurance.2023-01-1812 minStartupNation RadioKapnick Insurance: Russ Richards on Real Estate InsuranceRuss Richards of Kapnick Insurance Group discusses real estate insurance with guest host Michael Spath.2023-01-1811 minStartupNation RadioThe Most Important Aspect of Risk Solutions? Human BehaviorMichael Spath of Kapnick Insurance discusses risk solutions with expert Amy DeKeyser of Kapnick Insurance. Here are highlights from that conversation.
2023-01-1816 minStartupNation RadioKapnick Insurance: The Importance of a Good Broker for Towing InsuranceMichael Spath of Kapnick Insurance discusses towing and transportation with practice group leader, Keith Tubergen.2023-01-1811 min
StartupNation RadioThe Business Case for DEI InitiativesDEI initiatives not only impact the culture of a workplace, but also lead to measurable financial growth. Studies indicate that organizations that prioritize diversity and inclusion experience better employee retention and improved brand reputation with the general public.
2022-10-2517 minStartupNation RadioKapnick Insurance's Ian Burt on Employee BenefitsMichael Spath of Kapnick Insurance discusses employee benefits with expert Ian Burt.2022-09-2010 minStartupNation RadioKapnick Insurance: The Business of CannabisRama Gupta and Adam Blitchok of Kapnick Insurance talk with guest host Michael Spath about the insurance needs of cannabis businesses.2022-07-2812 minStartupNation RadioKapnick Insurance: Coverage for Travel and Second HomesBefore you travel and before you rent out your second home to vacationers, be sure you have the right insurance coverage. Shasta Hall of Kapnick Insurance shares her expertise.2022-06-2311 minStartupNation RadioKapnick Insurance: Why Your Business Needs Professional Liability InsuranceJeff Sloan, founder & CEO of StartupNation, discusses professional liability and errors and omissions (E&O) coverage with Michael Spath from Kapnick Insurance and Kapnick partner and leader of specialty risk, Doug Miller.2022-06-0238 minStartupNation RadioKapnick Insurance: The Right Time to Protect Your Business from Cyber Attacks Is NowJeff Sloan discusses why your small business needs to make cybersecurity protection a priority with Michael Spath and Melissa Selke of Kapnick Insurance.2022-05-0320 minStartupNation RadioStartupNation Radio with Shay Berman on Building a Business From ScratchOn this week’s episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff Sloan talks with Digital Resource’s Shay Berman about how he built his company from the ground up and the importance of hiring the right people.2022-01-2236 minStartupNation RadioStartupNation Radio: The Founders of Elsewhere TravelOn this week's episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff talks to Alexis Bowen and Craig Zapatka of Elsewhere Travel, a new kind of personalized, purpose-driven travel company.2022-01-0418 minStartupNation RadioStartupNation Radio: Elsewhere Travel and Kids Idea TankJeff Sloan talks with the founders of Elsewhere Travel and the creator of Kids Idea Tank and one of its winners on the latest episode of StartupNation Radio.2022-01-0436 minStartupNation RadioStartupNation Radio: Lowey Bundy Sichol and the Kids Idea TankJeff talks to Lowey Bundy Sichol, whose Kids Idea Tank competition lets young entrepreneurs pitch their products, just like on "Shark Tank," and the 2021 competition's runner-up Carter Koenigsknecht, 13, of Troy, MI.2022-01-0418 minStartupNation RadioStartupNation Radio Show with Quiker and Hydrocinch FoundersJeff Sloan talks with the founders of Quiker, a mobile mechanics service, and Hydrocinch, maker of a kiteboard harness.2022-01-0336 minStartupNation RadioStartupNation Radio: Carolyn Espinoza and Alex Vandervert of QuikerJeff Sloan talks with Carolyn Espinoza and Alex Vandervert, the mother and son team of Quiker, a mobile mechanics operation that brings onsite automotive services to you. Quiker's mission is to provide personalized on-demand, on-site repair service to the general public, corporations, and light vehicle fleet operators.2022-01-0316 minStartupNation RadioStartupNation Radio with Hydrocinch Founders Corey Gerhart and Greg MarquardtOn this week’s episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff speaks with Corey Gerhart and Greg Marquardt of Hydrocinch about how they got their kiteboarding harness accessory idea off the ground.2022-01-0319 minStartupNation RadioAsk the Experts on StartupNation Radio: Shay Berman on How to Create AwarenessOn this week's episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff Sloan talks with Digital Resource's Shay Berman about creating awareness that will translate into conversions for your business.2021-12-2016 minStartupNation RadioAsk the Experts: Shay Berman and Greg Packer on StartupNation RadioOn this week's episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff Sloan talks with Digital Resource's Shay Berman about creating awareness that will translate into conversions for your business and AccessPoint's Greg Packer about how cutting corners can hurt your long-term success.2021-12-2036 minStartupNation RadioAsk the Experts on StartupNation Radio: Greg Packer on the Importance of Following the RulesJeff Sloan talks with AccessPoint's Greg Packer about how cutting corners can hurt your long-term success.2021-12-2010 minStartupNation RadioStartupNation Radio: Critical Issues Facing Small Business Today with Cohost Brian CalleyJeff Sloan and cohost Brian Calley, president of the Small Business Association of Michigan, discuss the challenges facing small businesses, including supply chain disruptions and inflation.2021-12-0436 minStartupNation RadioStartupNation Radio: Mobile Flexible Income Strategy Helps Military SpousesCameron Cruse is a cofounder of R. Riveter, a handbag company that enlists military spouses as manufacturers. She discusses how their business structure supports the military community and why they chose handbags.2021-11-0618 minStartupNation RadioStartupNation Radio: The Pandemic Sparked a Social Media PlatformHeiroom creator Chris Budnik discusses how the pandemic sparked his idea for a private social media platform.2021-11-0619 minStartupNation RadioStartupNation Radio: R.Riveter and Heiroom Founders Started SmallJeff Sloan talks with two startup founders who were prompted by life circumstances to create businesses, Cameron Cruse of R. Riveter and Chris Budnik of Heiroom.2021-11-0636 minStartupNation RadioAsk the Experts: Shay Berman Share Tips on Crafting a Holiday Marketing PlanShay Berman of Digital Resource talks with Jeff Sloan about holiday marketing strategies, including timing, the value of text messaging, and promotion and discounting decisions.2021-10-2516 minStartupNation RadioAsk the Experts: Shay Berman, Michael Spath and Greg Packer on StartupNation Radio2021-10-2434 minStartupNation RadioAsk the Experts: Greg Packer Talks About Building a Great TeamGreg Packer of AccessPoint says creating the best team requires presenting your employees with a world-class experience.2021-10-2407 minStartupNation RadioAsk the Experts on StartupNation Radio: Michael Spath on Cyber InsuranceDoes your small business need cyber insurance and how much? Michael Spath of Kapnick Insurance Group discusses cybersecurity on this week's Ask the Experts episode.2021-10-2411 minStartupNation RadioStartupNation Radio: E-Procurement and Bringing Businesses TogetherOn today's episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff Sloan interviews Chris Cameron of PwC and Matt Cotter of Pairsoft about blending the creative and financial sides of entrepreneurship.2021-10-0336 minStartupNation RadioStartupNation Radio: Chris Cameron on Merging Creative, FinancialOn today's episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff Sloan interviews Chris Cameron of PwC about how he's merged his creative and financial backgrounds in the entrepreneurial sphere.2021-10-0308 minStartupNation RadioAsk the Experts: Michael Spath, Shay Berman, and Greg Packer on StartupNation RadioOn this week's episode, StartupNation's Jeff Sloan talks with Shay Berman about online advertising, Greg Packer about vaccine mandates for businesses and Michael Spath on summer insurance coverage.2021-09-2536 minStartupNation RadioAsk the Experts on StartupNation Radio: Greg Packer on Vaccine MandatesOn this week's episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff speaks with Greg Packer of AccessPoint about vaccine mandates and the issue of safety at small businesses.2021-09-2509 minStartupNation RadioAsk the Experts: Shay Berman Weighs In On Online Advertising on StartupNation RadioOn this week's episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff Sloan speaks with Digital Resource founder and president Shay Berman about two forms of advertising critical to small businesses: Google ads and programmatic advertising.2021-09-2515 minStartupNation RadioAsk the Experts: Michael Spath Talks Storm Insurance Coverage on StartupNation RadioOn this week's episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff Sloan speaks with Michael Spath of Kapnick Insurance Group about the importance of having the right insurance -- and enough of it -- to cover storm damage.2021-09-2512 min
StartupNation RadioStartupNation Radio: Business Builders with Jon DwoskinToday's episode of StartupNation Radio features Jon Dwoskin. He's a business coach. He's an author. He's a speaker. He's a podcaster. But most importantly, he loves helping people turn their dreams into reality. That's why we're partnering with Jon to offer coaching through Business Builders, a new service that teaches entrepreneurs how to start, grow, and manage a successful business.
2021-09-0435 min
StartupNation RadioAsk the Experts: Armando Ojeda, Angela Barbash, and Marcia Dawood on StartupNation RadioOn this week's episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff speaks with StartupNation's subject matter experts from SCORE Mentors: Armando Ojeda, Angela Barbash, and Marcia Dawood.Tune in to the full StartupNation Radio show with Ojeda, Barbash and Dawood to learn about the SCORE Mentors program and hear about each mentor's unique experiences.
2021-08-3136 min
StartupNation RadioAsk the Experts: Michael Spath, Shay Berman, and Greg Packer on StartupNation RadioOn this week's episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff discusses small business funding before speaking with StartupNation's subject matter experts: Kapnick Insurance Group's Michael Spath, Digital Resource's Shay Berman, and AccessPoint's Greg Packer.
2021-08-2137 min
StartupNation RadioStartupNation Radio: How and Why Having an App Can Help with Your Small Business SuccessOn this week's episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff talks to Mick Brege and Alex Lanzetta from Studio Cadenza about what an app is, how it can be used for small businesses, and how you can think about apps in new and novel ways. Jeff also speaks to Tim Connor, founder of Alteris, about an app he developed.
2021-08-1736 min
StartupNation RadioDell Technologies on Small Business: StartupNation RadioOn this week’s episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff talks to Megan Shadle from Dell Technologies to discuss Dell's commitment to entrepreneurial spirit, and her colleague YJ Lin shares stories of pursuing entrepreneurial endeavors. Jeff also speaks to Alexis Wormley, founder of online clothing store Offbeat Native, to learn about starting a business in the fashion world.
2021-08-0736 min
StartupNation Radio3 Detroit Entrepreneurs Share Keys to Success on StartupNation RadioOn this week's episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff talks to three Detroit entrepreneurs: Brad Baxter and Jacob Zuppke of AutoPets and Doug Schwartz of Detroit Wick.Tune in to the full StartupNation Radio show with Baxter, Zuppke and Schwartz to learn more about these Detroit entrepreneurs and how they're thriving.First up are AutoPets' leaders: Baxter, CEO, and Zuppke, president and COO. AutoPets creates products to make the lives of pets and their owners easier, such as the Litter-Robot.During the interview, Baxter and Zuppke discuss:How the idea for the company...2021-07-3136 min
StartupNation RadioAsk the Experts: Meet Our 3 New Subject Matter Experts on StartupNation RadioOn this week's episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff talks to StartupNation's new subject matter experts: Shay Berman of Digital Resource, Greg Packer of AccessPoint and Michael Spath of Kapnick Insurance Group.First up is Berman, the founder and president of Digital Resource, a digital marketing agency. He is StartupNation's digital marketing expert.During the interview, Berman discusses:The three keys entrepreneurs can use to drive awarenessWhy social media plays such a large role into consumers' buying and decision-making processesHow to know which market will fit your business' needsWhy paid ads are the best way...2021-07-2436 min
StartupNation Radio3 Food Entrepreneurs Reveal Their Ingredients for Success on StartupNation RadioOn today's food-themed episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff talks to food entrepreneurs Jessica Harold and Patrick Hingst of Kookys N Cream and chef Laura Romito of High 5 Salts with Benefits.Tune in to the full StartupNation Radio show with food entrepreneurs Harold, Hingst and Romito here to learn more about how to succeed in the food industry.First up is Harold and Hingst, the co-founders of Kookys n Cream, a Michigan-based cookie shop in Lapeer known for its cookie blend called "cookie cream."During the interview, Harold and Hingst discuss:What Kookys...2021-07-1737 min
StartupNation RadioThe Importance of Business Coaching: StartupNation Radio featuring Jon DwoskinOn today's business coaching-themed episode of StartupNation, Jeff brings on Jon Dwoskin. Dwoskin is a business coach, author, speaker and podcaster who has coached everyone from solopreneurs to Fortune 500 companies.Tune in to the full StartupNation Radio show with Dwoskin to learn more about business coaching.
2021-07-1036 min
StartupNation RadioStartupNation Radio: Entrepreneurs Share How to Make it Big on AmazonOn today's Amazon-themed episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff is joined by co-host Matt Damman and talks to Derek Gaskins of Aleva Stores and Retail Bloom and Michelle Covey of GS1.Tune in to the full StartupNation Radio show with Damman, Gaskins and Covey to learn more about how to be successful on Amazon.Gaskins is the president and founder of Aleva Stores, a retailer with a focus in medical supplies that assists brands in finding their way through e-commerce marketplaces like Amazon. He is also the chairman and co-founder of Retail Bloom, a service provider...2021-07-0336 min
StartupNation Radio4 Entrepreneurs Share How Passion Led Them to Travel Business on StartupNation RadioOn today's travel-themed episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff talks to KT Maviglia-Morgan and Jordan Morgan of On Arrival - The Traveler’s Podcast, Sally Bunnell of NaviSavi and Andrea Schubiner of Wanderful Journeys.Morgan is an American-born Slovenian professional basketball player who played college basketball at the University of Michigan. Maviglia-Morgan was crowned Miss Michigan in 2014 and is the founder of The KT Maviglia Fund, which helps Michigan residents with hearing loss. Together, the duo host On Arrival, a travel-based podcast.During the interview, Morgan and Maviglia-Morgan discuss:How Morgan balances being a professional at...2021-06-2636 min
StartupNation RadioLearn How to Run a Successful Franchise on StartupNation RadioOn today's franchise-themed episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff is joined by co-host Chris McCuiston of Goldfish Swim School and two featured guests: Dr. Mary Mason of Little Medical School and Manish Vakil of Tumbles Kids' Gyms.Tune in to the full StartupNation Radio show with McCuiston, Dr. Mason and Vakil to learn how to run a successful franchise.McCuiston is the co-founder and CEO of Goldfish Swim School, the premier learn-to-swim facility for kids ages 4 months to 12 years. This year, the Michigan-based company is celebrating its 15th year in business.During the interview...2021-06-1936 min
StartupNation RadioMichigan Entrepreneurs Reveal How They Pivoted During COVID-19 on StartupNation RadioOn today's episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff is joined by co-host, Brian Calley, president of the Small Business Association of Michigan (SBAM), and two featured guests: Patti Eisenbraun, co-owner of Brown Iron Brewhouse, and Derek Dickow, founder of Steward Media and Board of Directors member of SBAM.Calley, who is the former the lieutenant governor of Michigan, is the president of SBAM and will soon be its CEO. SBAM aims to help local small businesses find their footing and grow. It is the only statewide and state-based association that focuses solely on serving the needs of Michigan’s...2021-06-1236 min
StartupNation RadioStartupNation Radio: Olympic Champion Bode Miller and Vin Social Founder Sara MollOn today's episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff interviews two entrepreneurs: Bode Miller of SKEO and Sara Moll of Vin Social.First up is Miller, who is the most decorated male American alpine ski racer of all time, known for 33 World Cup wins, two overall titles, four world championships and six Olympic medals. Now, he is founding partner at SKEO, an app that measures and tracks data on your smartphone in your pocket while skiing.During the interview, Miller discusses:How he approaches his workHis journey from the sports world into the business worldHow he's b...2021-06-0536 min
StartupNation RadioThese Cannabis Entrepreneurs Talk Innovation in Budding Industry on StartupNation RadioOn today's episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff interviews three cannabis entrepreneurs: James Reina and Alvaro Ortega of Jibby Coffee and Jerome Crawford of Pleasantrees.First up are Reina and Ortega, co-founders of Jibby Coffee, a business out of Miami, Florida, that fuses its coffee with cannabis (CBD).During the interview, Reina and Ortega discuss:Why they decided to blend CBD into the already lauded commodity of coffeeHow they got their business going during the COVID-19 lockdownHow they overcame adversity after a cold front ruined their growing coffeeHow they personalize each orderTheir plans for Jibby...2021-05-2937 min
StartupNation RadioThese 2 Founders Share Their Inspirational Business Journeys on StartupNation RadioOn today's episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff interviews two entrepreneurs with Michigan-based businesses: Ali Rose VanOverbeke of Genusee and Zach Berg of Mongers’ Provisions.First up is VanOverbeke, the founder of Genusee, an eyewear company that launched in 2018 out of Flint, Michigan, that creates its products from recycled, single-use plastic water bottles.During the interview, VanOverbeke discusses:How the idea for Genusee formedGenusee's overall goalsWhy Genusee shoots to hire low-income, previously incarcerated and other often overlooked individualsWhy she believes business can be a vehicle for social changeHow Genusee transformed from a side hustle to a...2021-05-2237 min
StartupNation RadioAn Inside Look at Michigan's Prosperous Venture Capital CommunityIf you're a startup company looking for capital, today's StartupNation Radio show is for you!On this special edition of StartupNation Radio, Jeff shares a conversation with Ara Topouzian, executive director of the Michigan Venture Capital Association and RJ King, editor of DBusiness magazine, on the status of venture capital in Michigan today.Jeff kicks off the show by discussing what venture capital is, why it's important and why entrepreneurs must know about it. During the discussion, Jeff, Ara and RJ discuss notable deals being made in the state of Michigan by venture capital firms...2021-05-1536 min
StartupNation RadioThese 4 Entrepreneurs Share Their Startup Stories on StartupNation RadioOn today's episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff interviews four entrepreneurs who have started successful companies: Tania Shah, Erin Nobles and Lisa Sigman of In The Know Legal; and Kristen Denzer of Tierra Encantada.First up are Tania Shah, Erin Nobles and Lisa Sigman, co-founders of In The Know Legal, a company that provides online, DIY legal templates. At launch, they're focused on providing legal documents for life coaches and business coaches but will be expanding to other industries soon.During the interview, Shah, Nobles and Sigman discuss:Why the three saw a need for...2021-05-0837 min
StartupNation RadioThese Exemplary Shark Tank Entrepreneurs Share Their Success Stories on StartupNation RadioOn today's episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff Sloan is joined by co-host, Matt Damman, owner and inventor of Walkie Chalk and CEO of Commando Lock. Damman is a lifelong entrepreneur and frequent StartupNation Radio show guest and co-host, who had the opportunity to pitch his product, Walkie Chalk, to the Sharks on "Shark Tank." Together, Jeff and Matt interview two entrepreneurs who have pitched their products on "Shark Tank" with great results.First up is Selom Agbitor, co-founder of Mad Rabbit Tattoo, a natural tattoo aftercare solution created to help improve the healing process after seeing the...2021-05-0136 min
StartupNation RadioBloomscape and 2021 Midwest Venture Showcase: Successful Startups are Blooming in Our RegionWelcome back to another brand new episode of StartupNation Radio! Today, Jeff is joined by frequent co-host, Norm Pappas, president and CEO of Pappas Financial. First up, the two welcome Justin Mast, founder and CEO of Bloomscape, to StartupNation Radio. Later in the show, Jeff chats with Phyllis Ellison about an upcoming event that will surely interest startups, entrepreneurs and investors in the Southeast Michigan region.Bloomscape, which is the modern online garden center delivering the largest variety of quality houseplants directly from the greenhouse, was founded in 2017. The Detroit-based company is the only plant company that...2021-04-2437 min
StartupNation RadioWhere Are They Now? StartupNation Radio Catches up with Goldfish Swim School, Daily Crunch SnacksOn today's episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff catches up with former StartupNation Radio guests to see where they are now!First up, Jeff welcomes back Chris McCuiston, co-founder of Goldfish Swim School, who was featured on StartupNation Radio in December of 2019. McCuiston co-owns the state-of-the-art swimming facility with his wife, Jenny.Goldfish Swim School is the premier learn-to-swim facility for kids ages 4 months to 12 years, and this year, the company celebrates its 15th year in business!During the interview, McCuiston discusses:Goldfish Swim School's franchise modelThe company's growth over the last year...2021-04-1737 min
StartupNation RadioLocal Merchants Talk Return to Main Street on StartupNation RadioOn today's special edition of StartupNation Radio, we're talking to several local Main Street merchants about the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the opportunities ahead.Joining StartupNation's Jeff Sloan in the co-host seat is Julie Sloan of MainStreet Nation (a subset of StartupNation), who is a subject matter expert on the business of Main Street. Jeff and Julie kick off the show with Julie's observations of the current state of Main Street, including the passion small business owners possess for not only their businesses, but their communities, as well.John...2021-04-1036 min
StartupNation RadioStartupNation Radio: ‘Ask the Expert’ About Customer Acquisition Featuring SCORE of Southeast MichiganOn this episode of StartupNation Radio, we're featuring a new installment in our “Ask the Expert” series with SCORE of Southeast Michigan. This series is designed to help answer the burning questions of our community’s small business owners. Joining Jeff are Armando Ojeda, southeast Michigan chapter chair of SCORE, and today’s expert guest, Lisa O’Connell.Lisa is a SCORE sales expert and founder and CEO of Sales Account Ability, a company that helps management to coach sales people, define performance goals and implement easy to use tools to measure and monitor the performance of sales peop...2021-04-0337 min
StartupNation RadioThe Business of Music on StartupNation RadioOn today’s episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff chats with three entrepreneurs working to make a huge difference in the business of music.First up, Jeff chats with Jonathan Hayman and Cassie Alexe, co-founders of the Michigan Music Business Club. Hayman and Alexe are both are juniors in college at the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business.When they noticed a gap in student organizations, they created the Michigan Music Business Club to give members an exclusive, educational experience through hands-on speaking events, social events and internship recruitment events.During the interv...2021-03-2737 min
StartupNation RadioStartupNation Radio: Tom Berman of Nano Magic on Acquiring a BusinessWelcome to another edition of StarutpNation Radio! On today's show, Jeff welcomes Tom Berman, president and CEO of Nano Magic.Welcome to another edition of StarutpNation Radio! On today's show, Jeff welcomes Tom Berman, president and CEO of Nano Magic.A merger of two formerly two different companies, today, Nano Magic is a leader in creating and bringing to market cutting-edge nanotechnology powered applications made in the U.S. with special expertise in liquid products to apply to surfaces such as glass, porcelain and ceramic.During the show, Berman discusses:His family's...2021-02-2736 min
StartupNation RadioStartupNation Radio: The Business of SportsOn this very special edition of StartupNation Radio LIVE, Jeff is joined by co-host, Jamie Morris. Morris is a former running back who played at the University of Michigan at the college level, and for Washington in the NFL.Together, Jeff and Jamie interview four experts on business and football and take questions from callers.During the show, Jeff and Jamie chat with:Herman Moore, an NFL All-Pro, business owner, speaker and philanthropist.Jim Brandstatter, an American sports announcer who does the radio play-by-play for the Michigan Wolverines football team.John Wangler, a former...2021-02-1354 min
StartupNation RadioStartupNation Radio: ‘Shark Tank’ Tips and Success StoriesOn today’s episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff is joined by leading business coach and co-host, Jon Dwoskin. Together, they interview three entrepreneurs who have pitched their businesses on “Shark Tank.”Today’s featured guests are Renaldo Webb, founder of Pet Plate; Tate Stock, founder of Chirp; and Meredith Jurica, CEO of Makeup Junkie bags. Together, they share their “Shark Tank” experiences and offer up tips to aspiring entrepreneurs for perfecting your pitch in order to secure a deal.But first, Jeff and Jon kick off the show by announcing their new joint business coaching program, “Bu...2021-02-0638 min
StartupNation RadioStartupNation Radio: Take Control and Start it Up in 2021On this episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff features three entrepreneurs who took control of their lives by starting businesses of their own. In sharing their stories, these entrepreneurs offer up the key moves they made that ultimately led to their great success.First up is Heini Zachariassen, founder and CEO of the world’s most popular wine app, Vivino. With 46 million global users, Vivino is the world's largest wine community and the ultimate destination for discovering and purchasing wines.During the interview, Zachariassen shares:How and why he started VivinoHow he took a great id...2021-01-2338 min
StartupNation RadioHow to Bring a Product to Retail: StartupNation Radio Featuring Andrew BlakeOn this episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff is joined by guest co-host, Andrew Blake.Blake is President of Blake’s Family of Companies and the founder of Blake’s Hard Cider, an independent, family-owned Michigan craft cidery located in Armada, Michigan.When Blake returned to the family business after college, he knew he wanted to create a product that enriched the tradition and authenticity his family business was known for. Blake's Hard Cider was established in 2013 and has since brought in more than $100 million in sales.During the show, Blake shares:The back...2021-01-1838 min
StartupNation RadioStartupNation Radio: "Ask the Expert" Featuring SCORE of Southeast MichiganOn this episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff kicks off the first installment of “Ask the Expert,” a series with SCORE of Southeast Michigan that is designed to help answer the burning questions of our community’s small business owners.Joining Jeff today are Armando Ojeda, southeast Michigan chapter chair of SCORE, and today’s expert guest, Angela Mitchell.Angela is a SCORE mentor and financial services expert, as well as the founder of DNA Financial Services, where she helps small business owners with finances, bookkeeping, taxes and more.During the show, Jeff, Armando and Ange...2020-12-2834 min
StartupNation RadioStartupNation Radio feat. Jennifer Kluge and Jana BrownellOn today's episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff is joined by co-host Norm Pappas, president and CEO of Pappas Financial. Together, they interview two accomplished entrepreneurs: Jennifer Kluge and Jana Brownell.On today's episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff is joined by co-host Norm Pappas, president and CEO of Pappas Financial. Together, they interview two accomplished entrepreneurs, Jennifer Kluge and Jana Brownell.First up is Jennifer Kluge, president and CEO of the National Association for Business Resources (NABR) and president and CEO of MichBusiness,a community for Michigan business owners. Jennifer is also the CEO of Corp! Magaz...2020-11-3038 min
StartupNation RadioStartupNation Radio feat. Kabbage and Bamboo DetroitOn today’s episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff chats with Kathryn Petralia and Amanda Lewan. Both guests speak to the changes that their respective businesses have faced as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.First up, Jeff chats with Kathryn Petralia, co-founder of Kabbage, an online financial technology company that provides funding directly to small businesses. Since its founding in 2009, Kabbage has provided more than $6 billion to SMBs through a fully-automated platform that allows customers to apply in minutes.During the show, Petralia discusses:Her background in entrepreneurship and how she fell in love with...2020-10-2237 min
StartupNation RadioStartupNation Radio featuring SCORE of Southeast Michigan and PIXO VRFirst up, Jeff welcomes Armando Ojeda, certified mentor with SCORE of Southeast Michigan, an organization that provides free mentorship, networking and educational services and resources to entrepreneurs.During the interview, Ojeda discusses:How interest in entrepreneurship has increased during the COVID-19 pandemicThe different types of mentors available through SCOREWorkshops available for entrepreneurs through SCORESuccess stories that have come out of the local SCORE chapterThe new diversity initiative SCORE has implemented within its organizationFor more information on SCORE of Southeast Michigan and its free resources, visit the official website.Next up, Jeff chats...2020-10-1336 min
StartupNation RadioStartupNation Radio featuring The Pappas BrothersOn today’s episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff is joined by co-host, Norm Pappas, president and CEO of Pappas Financial. Together, they interview the Pappas brothers: Ed Pappas (a litigation attorney) and Rick Pappas (president of Davenport University).The focus of today's show is the ability to be an entrepreneur and think entrepreneurially and how these skills can be applied to various careers and fields.During the show, Ed discusses:His role with law firm Dickinson WrightWhy you must be an entrepreneur to succeed in lawThe three Rs of business development: establishing reputation, respect and...2020-10-1334 min
StartupNation RadioWinners in Business: StartupNation Radio feat. Bruce Liebowitz and Marci TaranThis episode of StartupNation Radio is brought to you by Pappas Financial On today’s episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff is joined by co-host, Norm Pappas, president and CEO of Pappas Financial. Together, they interview two guests who have both been living and breathing entrepreneurship for years: Bruce Liebowitz and Marci Taran.First up is Bruce Liebowitz, president of Post Guard, a company that manufacturers a variety of bollard products, including plastic bollard covers, bollard sleeves and more.During the interview, Bruce shares:What is a bollard?When he first knew entrepreneurship was for h...2020-10-1337 min
StartupNation RadioEmbracing Change During the Pandemic: Mark Manzo and Dr. Bryan WeinsteinThis episode of StartupNation Radio is brought to you by Pappas Financial On today’s episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff is joined by co-host, Norm Pappas, president and CEO of Pappas Financial. Together, they interview two guests: Mark Manzo, a professional business manager, and Dr. Bryan Weinstein, a psychiatrist and entrepreneur.First up is Mark Manzo, president of Ally Financial. Manzo was appointed to his role in 2018, and is responsible for all of Ally’s insurance operations, including consumer products, as well as commercial property and casualty products for dealers.During the interview, Manzo d...2020-10-1335 minStartupNation RadioSet Your Business Up for Success: Alampi and Associates and Digital Image StudiosThis episode of StartupNation Radio is brought to you by Pappas Financial On today’s episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff is joined by co-host, Norm Pappas, president and CEO of Pappas Financial. To kick off the show, Norm offers insights into his philosophy of viewing business problems as “brush fires” or “forest fires.”Jeff and Norm interview two local entrepreneurs: Jim Alampi, founder of Alampi and Associates, and David Hellie, president of Digital Image Studios.First up, Jeff and Norm chat with Jim Alampi, whose business, Alampi and Associates, has assisted CEOs and companies in de...2020-10-1336 min
StartupNation RadioBuild it or Buy It: StartupNation Radio feat. Coretek Services and Metro SignsThis episode of StartupNation Radio is brought to you by Pappas Financial On today’s episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff is joined by frequent co-host, Norm Pappas, president and CEO of Pappas Financial. Together, they interview Ron Lisch and Paul Deters.First up, the two chat with Lisch, CEO and owner of Coretek Services, an industry-leading IT professionalservices and consulting firm.Earlier this week, Coretek received the 2020 Microsoft U.S. Partner Award in advisory services.During the show, Lisch discusses:How he went from three employees to 100How he’s built a comp...2020-10-1337 minStartupNation RadioBuild It or Buy It: StartupNation Radio feat. John Patry and Mike KaszubskiThis episode of StartupNation Radio is brought to you by Pappas Financial On today’s episode of StartupNation Radio, Jeff is joined by frequent co-host, Norm Pappas, president and CEO of Pappas Financial. Together, they interview John Patry and Mike Kaszubski.John Patry is the CEO of UiS Corp, a one-stop shop for specialty electrical services.During the show, John Patry discusses:How he bought the business, UiS CorpHis business background and related skillsThe status of the company when he bought it versus where it is todayHow he’s taken his business from 2...2020-10-1337 min
StartupNation RadioProfitable Startups with Big Impact: PCIA and the Westbank CompanyMike Cosgrove is president and CEO at Professional Concepts Insurance Agency (PCIA), a business that has provided specialized insurance products to professional service companies for 32 years.During the interview, Mike discusses:The types of businesses PCIA works withWhat startups need to think about related to business insuranceThe type of insurance every business out there needs, regardless of industryThe importance of cyber liability insurance, and what it coversHow COVID has impacted the insurance industryPhaedra Wainaina is founder and CEO of the Westbank Company, a full-service consulting and strategic planning organization.During the interview...2020-10-0936 min
StartupNation RadioDetroit-Area Entrepreneurs Achieving Great Success: Dave Alden and Steve RundellDave Alden, chairman of Vistage, was at Ford for more than 30 years before deciding to become an entrepreneur in 2014. Vistage is a leading advisory and executive coaching organization for entrepreneurs and small business owners.During the show, Alden talks about:What he does in his role at Vistage and what the company provides to its membersHow he helps people work on their businesses (versus in their businesses)Examples of how entrepreneurs can work on their businessesThe three characteristics that Vistage members generally portrayThe process for becoming a memberHis journey from the corporate world to entrepreneurial world2020-10-0936 min
StartupNation RadioHow COVID-19 is Impacting the Sports and Hospitality IndustriesOn today's StartupNation Radio show, Jeff is once again joined by co-host, Norm Pappas, president and CEO of Pappas Financial. Today, the two are chatting with two industry experts to learn how COVID-19 is impacting the sports and hospitality industries.To kickstart the show, Jeff and Norm discuss various funding programs available to startups and small businesses during the COVID-19 crisis, including the Paycheck Protection Program.Arn Tellem, vice chairman at Palace Sports and Entertainment, joins the show to discuss the impact the coronavirus is having on professional sports. He also provides forward-thinking insights into w...2020-04-0432 min