Founder's Dinner

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Many believe that the true essence of entrepreneurship lies not in unblemished success, but in the rich learnings drawn from setbacks and challenges. 'Founder's Dinner, Stories of Entrepreneurial Wins, Losses, and Lessons,' hosted by Stas Balanevsky, invites you to delve into the captivating narratives of entrepreneurs, uncovering the pivotal moments that shaped their journeys. This podcast is a must-listen for aspiring and established entrepreneurs alike, offering invaluable insights into the transformative power of resilience and adaptation.

Stas Balanevsky


    • Nov 26, 2024 LATEST EPISODE
    • every other week NEW EPISODES
    • 33m AVG DURATION
    • 29 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Founder's Dinner

    Ep 28: Navigating Challenges with Grit and Grace

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2024 28:30


    Tricia Marsherall embarked on her entrepreneurial journey in 2016 with the founding of Marsherall Partners, a consulting firm specializing in donor database management for nonprofit organizations. Drawing from her extensive experience in nonprofit fundraising operations, she transformed her passion for database work into a thriving business that now serves clients across multiple states and countries. Tricia's perspective on entrepreneurship is deeply rooted in her upbringing, emphasizing the importance of taking risks, learning from both successes and failures, and sharing lessons learned within her team to foster a culture of continuous improvement. Her journey, marked by adaptability and innovation, particularly during the pandemic, underscores her belief in entrepreneurship as a path of constant growth, learning, and perseverance, shaped by her family's influence and her unique approach to business ownership.   Here's what to expect this episode: Tricia gained insights into entrepreneurship from her upbringing where business discussions were frequent. Adapting to remote services during the pandemic led to significant growth in Tricia's business, reaching a wider audience. Learning from mistakes, pivoting quickly, and being resilient are key aspects of entrepreneurial decision-making according to Tricia. Having a supportive partner who understands the entrepreneurial journey is crucial for success, as highlighted by Tricia and Stas. Tricia and Stas emphasize the importance of having both grit and grace in entrepreneurship, combining determination with acceptance and adaptability.   Connect with Tricia Marsherall: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tricia-marsherall/   Connect with Stas Balanevsky: https://www.eosworldwide.com/stas-balanevsky Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Ep 27: Collective Success: Sharing Knowledge and Experiences Among Entrepreneurs

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 12, 2024 26:45


    Dafne Tsarkiris, an accomplished entrepreneur originally from Sweden, has carved out a unique path in the entrepreneurial world after launching her own venture, Launch Point, in Colorado. Her perspective on entrepreneurship is deeply rooted in the belief that success stems from unwavering confidence in one's vision and the relentless pursuit of problem-solving. Having transitioned from an au pair to a startup employee, and eventually to a business owner, Dafne emphasizes the importance of understanding finance and people management while leveraging one's network for support. Through her journey, she has demonstrated that entrepreneurship is a continuous learning process, driven by the commitment to overcoming challenges and sharing knowledge with fellow entrepreneurs.   Here's what to expect this episode: Launch Point has grown from a solo venture to a team of six individuals, with plans for further expansion as they are currently hiring a contractor bench. Dafne emphasizes the belief and confidence needed to succeed as an entrepreneur, stressing the ability to solve problems for success. Addressing the difficulties faced when scaling a business involves tough decisions, such as letting go of employees who do not align with the company's core values and culture. Dafne emphasizes the importance of utilizing financial expertise within an entrepreneur's network to build financial structures and models for business success. Entrepreneurs like Stas Balanevsky and Dafne Tsarkiris emphasize the importance of helping and influencing fellow entrepreneurs by sharing mistakes and expertise to benefit the present and future generation.   Connect with Dafne Tsakiris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dafne-tsakiris/ Connect with Stas Balanevsky: https://www.eosworldwide.com/stas-balanevsky Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Ep 26: Impact Investing: Making Money While Making a Difference

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2024 25:28


    Steven Coulton, co-founder of OnCore Golf alongside Bret Blakely, embarked on an entrepreneurial journey driven by his fervor for golf and the innovative promise of perimeter weighting technology in golf balls. Leaving behind a successful career at Deutsche Bank, Coulton embraced the challenges of entrepreneurship with a vision that combined both innovation and community support. Reflecting on this journey, he acknowledges the initial naivety of expecting overnight success and underscores the importance of perseverance and openness to unconventional opportunities. By fostering strategic partnerships, such as those with PGA Hope, and transitioning to a direct-to-consumer model, Coulton has not only propelled OnCore Golf to carve a unique niche in the industry but also demonstrated the significant impact of adaptability and collaboration in the business world. Here's what to expect this episode: Passion for golf and belief in revolutionary technology led to entrepreneurship Successful transition to direct-to-consumer model for golf products  Importance of planning, learning from mistakes, and adapting business strategy Budgeting for mistakes crucial in new product development proformas Positive outcomes from collaborations within the business community Connect with Steve Coulton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-coulton-8427a6a Connect with Stas Balanevsky: https://www.eosworldwide.com/stas-balanevsky Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Ep 25: Trusting Your Instincts: The Key to Success

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 15, 2024 35:59


    Todd Pellow's entrepreneurial journey began in high school, fueled by ambitions of becoming the president of the United States and retiring by 40, and has since evolved into a rich tapestry of experiences and lessons. Guided by a seasoned business mentor, Todd's early ventures in the tech industry, including founding a small ISP in New York, laid the groundwork for his expertise in internet connectivity and business development. Reflecting on his path, Todd emphasizes the importance of viewing entrepreneurship as a journey rather than a destination, valuing the relationships and experiences gained along the way. He underscores the need for discipline and belief in one's vision while embracing the unpredictable nature of business, advocating for continuous learning, adaptation, and the courage to take risks and learn from failures.   Here's what to expect this episode: Success is not just about the destination but also about the journey, people, relationships, and experiences encountered along the way. Importance of taking risks and learning from failures in achieving success. Building strong relationships with clients is crucial in business to navigate tough situations and achieve success. Trusting instincts in entrepreneurial decisions and seizing opportunities in real estate investment. Combination of instinct and strategic decision-making can lead to success in business. Balancing vision with practicality, discipline, and adapting from mistakes is key in managing the visionary curse in entrepreneurship. Investing in relationship building can result in increased revenue opportunities and sustainable business growth.   Connect with Todd Pelow: https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-pelow-b958566a/   Connect with Stas Balanevsky: https://www.eosworldwide.com/stas-balanevsky Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Ep 024: Holistic Health Transformation for Client Empowerment

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 8, 2024 43:32


    URL:  http://limitlesspts.com/   Episode Summary: Dan Bajus's entrepreneurial journey in physical therapy is deeply influenced by the ethos of hard work and leadership he inherited from his parents, who successfully ran their own millwork company. Beginning his career fresh out of college, Dan quickly ascended to a partnership role, where he championed financial transparency to address disparities in small practices. His strategic merger with a solo practitioner specializing in pelvic floor therapy significantly boosted their business, resulting in the establishment of Limitless Physical Therapy with multiple locations. Dan emphasizes authenticity in leadership, advocating for innovative healthcare models, shared ownership, and fostering professional growth, thereby creating numerous opportunities for his team to thrive.   Here's what to expect this episode: ·        Dan Bajus established a thriving physical therapy practice with multiple locations and staff.   ·        Introducing a pelvic floor physical therapy program and emphasizing financial transparency are key strategies in Dan's entrepreneurship journey.   ·        Building an in-house marketing team that creates authentic content is crucial for generating leads and business growth.   ·        Innovating the healthcare business model by focusing on quality over volume and exploring new revenue streams is a priority for Dan.   ·        Incorporating lifestyle factors into treatment plans to improve overall health and engage clients for long-term sustainability is a key approach.   ·        Dan emphasizes the importance of authenticity in business and helping professionals establish their personal true north.   ·        Transitioning from a mentor to managing peers requires discipline in goal-setting, clarity in vision, and radical candor for effective leadership.     Connect with Dan Bajus: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-bajus-a36402176   Connect with Stas Balanevsky: https://www.eosworldwide.com/stas-balanevsky Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Ep 023: The Resilient Journey: Success Through the Immigrant Mindset

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 1, 2024 33:30


    Lena Levine's entrepreneurial journey began when she moved to the United States in 2009, transitioning from a corporate web developer to founding her own software development agency, For Cotta, within just six months. Driven by her vision of becoming a CEO and armed with skills honed from her immigrant background, Lena applied her full stack engineering expertise to help companies build the right products for the right customers through design, technology, and data-driven decisions. Over the past decade, she has grown For Cotta into a thriving business with a team of 15, serving a diverse clientele that includes startups and Fortune 500 companies like Met Bank and Oral-b. Lena credits her success to the resilience and determination instilled in her by her immigrant experience, which has also fueled her commitment to mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs and contributing to the Buffalo startup ecosystem.   Here's what to expect this episode: Immigrant experience equips individuals with valuable qualities crucial for navigating the entrepreneurial world. Resilience and determination gained from facing challenges as an immigrant are valuable assets in the entrepreneurial world. Adding a 'WOW Factor' to the sales process by exceeding client expectations drives business growth and success. Focusing on bootstrapping, generating sales, and refining the product before raising fun Mentoring startups, organizing events, and giving back to the community are essential in building lasting friendships and connections. Leveraging transferable skills acquired from relocating, such as resilience, networking, and goal setting, is instrumental in entrepreneurial success.   Connect with Lena Levine: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lenalevine/   Connect with Stas Balanevsky: https://www.eosworldwide.com/stas-balanevsky Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Ep 022: Transitioning: From Corporate to Entrepreneurial Innovations

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2024 37:26


    Kim Marie McKernan is an accomplished entrepreneur who made a significant transition from a successful corporate career at renowned organizations like General Motors and Moog to founding her own business. With a robust educational foundation from Syracuse University and an MBA in marketing from the University of Buffalo, Kim's journey is marked by her strategic and adaptive approach to entrepreneurship. She emphasizes the importance of following one's passion and seeking mentorship to navigate the numerous challenges of building a business, underscoring that there are no shortcuts to success. By blending big company strategies with nimble entrepreneurial thinking, Kim's unique perspective highlights the transformative and rewarding nature of entrepreneurship, as evidenced by her rapid growth and success even amid the challenges of the pandemic.   Here's what to expect this episode: The importance of seeking help and mentorship in entrepreneurship The shift from selling processes to selling results in business Prioritizing customer needs over promoting expertise for business success The benefits of transitioning from corporate America to entrepreneurship The impact of entrepreneurship on personal growth and fulfillment Continuous learning and adaptation are crucial in the entrepreneurial journey   Connect with Kim Marie McKernan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmariemckernan/   Connect with Stas Balanevsky: https://www.eosworldwide.com/stas-balanevsky Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Ep 21: Collecting and Reflecting on Personal Wisdom Nuggets

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 17, 2024 35:30


    David Clar's entrepreneurial journey began with purchasing a printing company from his parents, which he managed for nearly a decade. Under his leadership, the company transitioned from offset to digital printing, becoming a pioneer in the Rochester area. Despite facing numerous financial challenges, David's resilience and commitment to innovation helped him navigate and ultimately overcome these obstacles. Reflecting on his experiences, David underscores the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and treating employees with respect, contrasting sharply with what he views as a prevalent "quitting attitude" among corporate executives.   Here's what to expect this episode: Capturing and reflecting on small pieces of wisdom can greatly influence personal growth and decision-making. Adapting to industry changes is crucial for success and profitability. Learning from entrepreneurial losses and turning them into wins is key for driving success. Building a positive culture within a company can lead to improved work atmosphere and success. Core values are important for decision-making, employee empowerment, and attracting like-minded individuals to the business. Respecting values and standing up for employees is crucial when dealing with challenging customers. Treating others as you would like to be treated and putting families first is essential for shaping company culture.   Connect with David Clar: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidlclar/   Connect with Stas Balanevsky: https://www.eosworldwide.com/stas-balanevsky Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Ep 20: Impact-Driven Organizational Culture and Success Mindset

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2024 36:21


    Nelson Tepfer, co-founder and CEO of Pro CFO Partners has over 15 years of experience in the entrepreneurial world that began with his transition from a full-time CFO to a part-time consultant. His journey, marked by a diverse portfolio spanning dozens of industries, revealed intrinsic challenges such as balancing development and delivery and navigating feast or famine cycles. These experiences underscored the necessity of a collaborative and growth-oriented approach to financial leadership, prompting Tepfer to establish Pro CFO Partners. With a team of nearly 60 CFOs, Tepfer's firm aims to address critical gaps in the market, emphasizing strategic financial planning and leadership to foster sustainable growth for organizations.   Here's what to expect this episode: Defining the impact and process of a CFO role is crucial for leadership and decision-making. Understanding the role and impact of a CFO in organizations is essential for driving growth and success. Building effective teams requires defining qualities and standards for success. Core values such as being impact-driven and collaborative shape the team's mindset for success. Continuous improvement and setting high standards are key for organizational evolution and excellence. Financial leadership, budgeting, and strategic decision-making are vital for organizational success. Companies experiencing rapid growth need to be financially prepared to avoid potential pitfalls.     Connect with Nelson Tepfer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tepfer   Connect with Stas Balanevsky: https://www.eosworldwide.com/stas-balanevsky                                    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Ep 19: Smart Hiring: Aligning Core Values for Business Success

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2024 25:28


    Abby Reinhard discovered her entrepreneurial spirit later in her career, sparked by a career assessment that identified her entrepreneurial traits. Initially uncertain about her capabilities, Abby took a leap of faith and bought a flooring business, embracing the journey despite her self-doubt and imposter syndrome. She emphasizes the importance of pushing through fear, advocating for action and bravery even in the face of uncertainty. Abby's journey, characterized by strategic hiring and seeking trusted advice, epitomizes her belief that one must seize opportunities and take risks to achieve personal and professional growth. Here's what to expect this episode:   Creating a book with stories of entrepreneurs to provide advice and cautionary tales for aspiring business owners Importance of hiring wisely and aligning core values when building a team within a newly acquired business Investing in more people is crucial for scaling a business and driving growth Seeking advice and feedback from trusted individuals can help in making decisions faster Taking action despite inner uncertainties and pushing through self-doubt for success Connect with Abby Reinhard: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abby-reinhard-6579244 Connect with Stas Balanevsky: https://www.eosworldwide.com/stas-balanevsky

    Ep 018: Zero Turnover Rates: The Power of Employee Engagement

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2024 43:40


    URL:  https://atlasmke.com/about-us/   Episode Summary: Kristian Pettengil, a seasoned professional with over 25 years in sales and leadership roles at Baxter Healthcare, ventured into entrepreneurship out of frustration with the traditional lead generation market. Initially reluctant to see himself as an entrepreneur, Pettengil founded a public benefits corporation designed to support nonprofits and give back to the community. His "help first" approach underscores the value of seeking advice from experienced individuals and fostering supportive relationships with business leaders for collective growth. Emphasizing the importance of community and collaboration, Pettengil's journey highlights the need for a shift in mindset from problem-focused to solution-oriented thinking, enabling both personal and organizational success.   Here's what to expect this episode: ·        Establishing a public benefits corporation to address lead generation challenges and give back to the community.   ·        Community impact and reduced turnover rates as a result of being a public benefits corporation.   ·        Challenges faced while starting a unique business model and the importance of learning from missteps.   ·        Successful lead generation outcome with Tesla through effective client engagement.   ·        Importance of addressing missteps in client onboarding and forecasting issues collaboratively.   ·        Shift from a confrontational approach to involving team members in problem-solving discussions.   ·        Emphasis on trust, accountability, and community support for successful business operations.     Connect with Kristian Pettengill: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristianpettengill/   Connect with Stas Balanevsky: https://www.eosworldwide.com/stas-balanevsky

    Ep 017: The Entrepreneurial Mindset: Key Traits for Achieving Business Excellence

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2024 46:00


    URL: https://clarityops.co/   Episode Summary: Garrett Delph is an entrepreneurial enthusiast who has embarked on a journey marked by a strategic and thoughtful approach to business. Delph believes that building a successful business is like constructing a building; it requires time, effort, and a solid framework to ensure durability. He emphasizes the importance of having a supportive network, including a coach and a peer group, as well as utilizing structured methodologies like the EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) to navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship. Committed to continual growth, Delph actively engages with the entrepreneurial community through podcasts, sharing his insights and learning from both successes and failures to help others avoid common pitfalls and achieve success.   Here's what to expect this episode: ·        Sharing wins, losses, and lessons from experiences is significant for entrepreneurs' growth and learning.   ·        Being a certified EOS implementer can help optimize company operations and create a people-first culture for sustainable growth.   ·        Identifying opportunities and pivoting businesses are crucial for entrepreneurial success, as seen in Garrett Delph's journey.   ·        Understanding customer needs and infrastructure requirements are essential for scaling technology in a post-production business.   ·        Managing business failures requires delivering clear value propositions, avoiding micromanagement, and aligning business goals with customer needs.   ·        Establishing a core value playbook is crucial for guiding behavior and decision-making within an organization.   ·        Accepting criticism, feedback, and having a supportive network are essential for growth and success in business endeavors.   Connect with Garrett Delph https://www.linkedin.com/in/garrettdelph/   Connect with Stas Balanevsky: https://www.eosworldwide.com/stas-balanevsky

    Ep 16: Support Systems and Faith: A Path of Growth

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2024 40:46


    Neil Twa's entrepreneurial journey is a testament to the transformative power of risk-taking and adaptability. After leaving his corporate role at IBM in 2007, Neil leveraged his extensive experience in technology and management to build a successful consultancy by 2010. His transition from a structured corporate environment to entrepreneurship was driven by a quest for a more balanced life and a desire to push boundaries. Through personal anecdotes and experiences of both failures and triumphs, Neil underscores the importance of resilience, strategic decision-making, and aligning one's actions with a deeper purpose, ultimately finding fulfillment in prioritizing family and meaningful relationships.   Here's what to expect this episode: Transitioning from a self-employed mindset to a business owner and investor is crucial in brand building and e-commerce. Learning from failures, taking risks, and gaining wisdom through experiences are vital in entrepreneurship. Importance of due diligence, risk assessment, and avoiding emotional attachment in business decisions to prevent failures. Resilience, mental strength, and perseverance are key in overcoming adversity and personal growth. Transitioning from profit-focused to purpose-driven mindset leads to a more fulfilling and impactful business approach. Shifting from a mindset of scarcity to abundance empowers individuals to unlock their potential and make decisions for success.   Connect with Neil Twa: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neiltwa/     Connect with Stas Balanevsky: https://www.eosworldwide.com/stas-balanevsky

    Ep 015: Targeting Fivefold Agency Billings Growth Strategy

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2024 41:15


    URL: http://www.agency15.com/   Episode Summary: Zach Schneider's entrepreneurial journey began at the young age of 19 after he failed to secure an internship, prompting him to found Schneider Digital, which specializes in website development and software solutions. Reflecting on his path, Zach sees entrepreneurship not as a fast track to wealth but as a series of rigorous learning experiences demanding dedication and focus. His story, highlighted on The Entrepreneurship Podcast, sheds light on the importance of niche focus, strategic growth planning, and selective client engagement to achieve exponential success. Despite facing setbacks, including the impact of Covid on his ventures, Zach's relentless drive and innovative approach have enabled him to start and sell multiple companies, all while mentoring other entrepreneurs through programs like EIR, Cultivator, and Launch.   Here's what to expect this episode: ·        Entrepreneurship requires focus, dedication, and adaptability for success.   ·        Niche focus in business can lead to long-term success and profitability.   ·        Strategic growth planning is essential for sustainable business growth.   ·        Staying ahead of industry trends and exploring new technologies is crucial in a changing landscape.   ·        Being selective in client engagements can lead to accelerated business growth and success.   ·        Supporting and mentoring other entrepreneurs is important for the growth of the business community.   ·        Learning from each entrepreneurial experience is valuable for personal and professional growth.   Connect with Zach Schneider http://linkedin.com/in/zackschneider   Connect with Stas Balanevsky: https://www.eosworldwide.com/stas-balanevsky  

    Ep 14: Niche Targeting: The Art of Market Domination

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2024 30:14


    Seth Greene is an accomplished entrepreneur with a successful background in marketing and communication, recognized for his achievements and featured on the Ink List. Reflecting on his entrepreneurial journey, Seth adopts a perspective of humility and gratitude, acknowledging the continuous evolution in business, marketing, and communication. He emphasizes the importance of adapting to new technologies and trends to help clients grow their businesses effectively. Despite experiencing significant challenges and setbacks, such as a lucrative deal that fell through, Seth remains focused on his goals of making a meaningful impact and helping other entrepreneurs succeed, highlighting the value of perseverance and continuous improvement in achieving long-term success.   Here's what to expect this episode: Building a successful business requires diversification to mitigate risks and ensure stability. Securing payment before finalizing a deal is crucial to avoid financial setbacks in business. Continuous innovation and adding value for clients are essential for maintaining loyalty and competitiveness. Focusing on a niche target market is key to crafting an effective marketing strategy and increasing chances of success. Establishing relationships with influential figures in the industry can lead to entrepreneurial success. Entrepreneurs should always have contingency plans in place and not assume deals are final until money is in the bank.   Connect with Seth Greene: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethgreene/   Connect with Stas Balanevsky: https://www.eosworldwide.com/stas-balanevsky  

    Ep 13: The Power of Trusted Advisors in Entrepreneurship

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2024 28:56


    Episode Summary: Mike Davern, co-founder of the thriving digital marketing agency Incept, has a compelling entrepreneurial journey that began with selling pages from adult-oriented magazines he discovered on a trail as a child. His perspective on entrepreneurship is deeply rooted in a desire to help others, particularly parents with sick children, by connecting them with necessary resources and support. Having transitioned from corporate America to co-founding Incept with his college roommate, Davern has faced numerous challenges but believes firmly in the lessons learned from both mistakes and successes. He envisions a future where his ventures not only innovate and grow but also make a significant positive impact on the world, underpinned by continuous learning and a dedicated focus on community aid. Here's what to expect this episode: • Learning from failures and the value of perseverance are crucial in the entrepreneurial world. • Thorough research is essential before making business decisions to avoid analysis paralysis. • Applying learned strategies and adapting lead to improved efficiency and success for clients. • Having a close-knit group of trusted advisors is crucial for making critical decisions. • Unwavering determination is key to achieving success despite skepticism from others. • Maintaining a dynamic inner circle and being open to pivoting when necessary are essential for success. Connect with Mike Davern: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-davern/ Connect with Stas Balanevsky: https://www.eosworldwide.com/stas-balanevsky

    Ep 12: Compassionately Assertive: Standing Out in a Commoditized Market

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2024 27:05


    Episode Summary: Susan Duke's entrepreneurial journey began in her mother's retail business, planting the seeds of her desire to own a business. Despite initially majoring in business administration, she found her true passion in English and history, eventually leading her to pursue a law degree. Her early legal career was fraught with challenges and a lack of mentorship, but she took a leap of faith to start her own law practice, which quickly became successful. Susan's experiences have taught her the importance of trusting her gut instincts, strategic financial planning, and fostering a strong company culture, all of which have shaped her resilient and adaptive entrepreneurial mindset.   Here's what to expect this episode:  Seeking mentorship and guidance from legal professionals is crucial for entrepreneurship success. Building a strong company culture and hiring based on values are key to maintaining a successful business. Believing in abundance rather than scarcity is important for long-term business growth and success. Financial planning and strategic growth are essential elements in building a successful law practice.    Core values and Three Unique's can differentiate a business in a competitive market and shape its reputation and future growth.   Connect with Susan Duke: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-duke/   Connect with Stas Balanevsky: https://www.eosworldwide.com/stas-balanevsky

    Ep 11: Market Segmentation for Strategic Business Growth

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 9, 2024 28:11


    Rodney Reisdorf, the CEO and co-founder of Verivend, a fintech company based in Buffalo, has been a pivotal force in revolutionizing B2B payments with innovative solutions. With a background steeped in high-growth startups across various industries, Rodney has positioned Verivend as a trailblazer in the private capital space, likening it to a Venmo for private capital transactions. Under his leadership, the company is on the cusp of a significant milestone, nearing $1 billion in total transaction volume, a testament to its secure and frictionless platform for asset managers and investment sponsors. Through strategic focus and specialization, Rodney believes that Verivend is fundamentally transforming the way capital transactions are raised and deployed, emphasizing the necessity of alignment with the company's core mission to foster meaningful progress. Here's what to expect this episode: • Verivend is a fintech company in Buffalo aiming to simplify and secure capital transactions in various asset classes. • Verivend has processed over $1 billion in total transactions volume milestone, serving asset managers and investment sponsors. • Focusing on a specific market segment first before expanding can lead to growth and success. • Entrepreneurs should say no to opportunities that do not align with the business's core mission. • Constantly raising capital is crucial for business growth and building trust with potential investors.   Connect with Rodney Reisdorf: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodneyreisdorf/   Connect with Stas Balanevsky: https://www.eosworldwide.com/stas-balanevsky

    Ep 10: Art as a Tool for Personal and Professional Growth

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 2, 2024 40:12


    Episode Summary: Katherine Earnhardt embarked on her entrepreneurial journey ten years ago, establishing a thriving business now operating in four cities with a dedicated team of eight women. A self-motivated problem solver, Katherine finds inspiration in the stories of entrepreneurs from diverse fields, which has profoundly influenced her innovative business model. She values being surrounded by motivated women and places immense importance on guiding her clients through the process of building their art collections, positioning them as the heroes of their own stories. Defining success beyond financial achievements, Katherine emphasizes clarity, effective communication, and continuous personal and professional growth as the cornerstones of her business philosophy. Here's what to expect this episode: • Dedication, clear vision, and surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals can lead to significant growth and personal fulfillment in the entrepreneurial world. • Trusting one's instincts and making decisions aligned with values can lead to success beyond financial gain and personal fulfillment. • Acting as a guide rather than a hero in business leadership can empower clients to achieve their goals. • Trusting intuition and making decisions aligned with values is crucial in business decision-making. • Confidence and self-awareness are essential in transforming personal and professional life. • Continuously evaluating decisions in light of new information leads to sound choices for successful outcomes. • Engaging with art can enhance skills like curiosity, creativity, problem-solving, listening, and self-awareness for personal and professional growth. Connect with Katharine Earnhardt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kearnhardt/ Connect with Stas Balanevsky: https://www.eosworldwide.com/stas-balanevsky

    Ep 09: Avoiding Financial Ruin: The Battle Against Excessive Medical Bills

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2024 20:03


    Episode Summary: Adria Goldman Gross, a distinguished expert in the health insurance industry, collaborates with the Expert Institute, where her extensive knowledge is highly valued. Surprised but grateful to be approached by the organization, Adria works closely with lawyers, providing deep insights and guidance on complex legal matters. Her extensive experience, including co-authoring the book "Apparently Different" and founding Medwise Insurance Advocacy, underscores her commitment to helping others navigate financial challenges, especially in healthcare. Adria's positive perspective on her involvement with the Expert Institute reflects her humility and dedication to leveraging her expertise for the benefit of others.   Here's what to expect this episode: · Adria Goldman Gross collaborated with the Expert Institute to work with lawyers, showcasing her expertise in legal matters.   · Adria is releasing a book called 'Apparently Different' featuring personal stories focusing on diversity and uniqueness.   · Adria Gross advocates for individuals facing high medical bills to prevent bankruptcy and ensure fair billing practices.   · Good credit is essential for obtaining car insurance and managing financial transactions, as discussed by Stas Balanevsky.   · Adria founded Medwise Insurance Advocacy to help individuals navigate complex medical billing processes and avoid financial hardship.   Connect with Adria Goldman Gross: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adriagross/   Connect with Stas Balanevsky: https://www.eosworldwide.com/stas-balanevsky

    Ep 08: Diversification Strategy: Beauty Industry to Real Estate Development

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 18, 2024 24:33


    Episode Summary: Paul Grenauer's entrepreneurial journey began with a youthful landscape business, reflecting his early passion and his family's strong entrepreneurial spirit. His perspective on the entrepreneurial journey emphasizes a relentless drive, a passion for new challenges, and the fulfillment that comes from helping others. Grenauer acknowledges the difficulties along the way but believes that setbacks offer valuable lessons, which he shares with other entrepreneurs to aid their journeys. His diverse ventures, from a salon and spa in Buffalo to real estate development, showcase his ability to strategically navigate and sustain growth while balancing daily tasks with long-term planning, often through delegating responsibilities. Here's what to expect this episode: • Paul Grenauer diversified his business ventures from landscaping to salon, day spa, cosmetology school, and real estate development showcasing evolution and growth. • Transitioning from salon and spa business to real estate development was a strategy for diversification and risk mitigation in entrepreneurship. • Entrepreneurs need to delegate tasks, like hiring a bookkeeper, to focus on strategic decision-making and business direction for success. • Taking clarity breaks in business is essential for making strategic decisions and seeing the bigger picture, leading to effective decision-making and growth opportunities. • Transitioning from tactical work to strategic decision-making is crucial for efficiency and growth, emphasizing the importance of financial stability before delegating tasks. Connect with Paul Grenauer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-grenauer-2b029b11/ Connect with Stas Balanevsky: https://www.eosworldwide.com/stas-balanevsky

    Ep 07: Unlocking the Secrets of Niche Specialization Success

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2024 48:08


    Trevor Buccieri, a driven entrepreneur from Orchard Park, has a unique perspective on the entrepreneurial journey that underscores the importance of passion, risk-taking, and continuous growth. Initially following a conventional path in accounting, Trevor pivoted to fitness and nutrition, leveraging his personal transformation to establish a thriving personal training business at just 19. His subsequent success in developing a personal training program at Erie One BOCES revealed to him that fulfillment lies not in static roles but in the dynamic process of building and expanding his vision. Now, focusing on online sales and weight loss, Trevor's story exemplifies how channeling scattered ideas into a focused vision can lead to both business success and personal happiness, all while continuously embracing new challenges to stave off boredom and depression. Here's what to expect this episode: • Valuable insights and guidance are provided to fellow entrepreneurs through real stories of wins, losses, and lessons. • Practical advice and inspiration are offered to the audience through personal entrepreneurial journeys highlighting successes and failures. • Taking risks and following one's passion can lead to business success and growth. • Effective marketing, attention to detail, and follow-up systems are crucial for sustaining growth in business. • Efficient delegation of tasks is essential for focusing on high-value activities and achieving maximum impact. • Finding one's core focus and niche is crucial for success as an entrepreneur. • Focusing genius in business drives success and growth, leading to increased happiness and productivity. Connect with Trevor Buccieri https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-a-buccieri/ Connect with Stas Balanevsky: https://www.eosworldwide.com/stas-balanevsky

    Ep 06: Seeking External Advice for Personal and Professional Growth

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2024 31:20


    Billy Lewis embarked on his entrepreneurial journey in the late nineties, quickly transforming his business from a modest $6 million in sales to an impressive $50 million by 2005. Reflecting on his journey, Lewis reveals a mix of pride in his achievements and humility regarding his early mistakes, such as letting pride inhibit his willingness to seek advice. Despite these initial hurdles, his ability to learn from failures and adapt played a crucial role in his subsequent successes, including taking his company public and leading significant expansion projects. Today, Lewis's story stands as a testament to the importance of humility, continuous learning, and balancing visionary ambitions with operational execution, offering valuable insights for both aspiring and seasoned entrepreneurs. Here's what to expect this episode: • Family roots and personal experiences can have a significant impact on entrepreneurship. • Strategic decisions and selling to a private equity firm can lead to business growth. • Adaptability is crucial in seizing new opportunities in entrepreneurship. • The relationship between visionary thinking and operational execution is key for long-term success. • Learning from failures, seeking advice, and being mission-driven are crucial for entrepreneurial success. • Asking questions, seeking advice, and being open to feedback are important for personal and professional growth. Connect with Billy Lewis https://rl-hospitality.com/ Connect with Stas Balanevsky: https://www.eosworldwide.com/stas-balanevsky

    Ep 05: AI Automation: Transforming Processes in the Moving Industry

    Play Episode Listen Later May 28, 2024 41:04


    Wade Swikle, a proficient entrepreneur, transitioned from his position as a fractional chief marketing officer to establish a moving company. His perspective on starting a moving company highlights the significance of proper business practices and continuous learning. Initially, Wade dove into the business with little understanding of the essential legal requisites, such as licensing and insurance. It was only after acquiring advice from a competitor and gaining more industry knowledge that he took the necessary steps to formalize his enterprise. This experience led him to appreciate the role of education in entrepreneurship, prompting him to enroll in an entrepreneurship program. His journey also underlines the necessity for business strategy evolution, as evidenced by his transition from hiring college students to professionals and his focus on clients with higher incomes and businesses with office moving needs. These strategies have been instrumental in the growth and success of his moving company. Here's what to expect this episode: • Zitto Brothers and Two College Brothers are moving companies discussed by Wade and Stas. • Entrepreneurial journey requires adaptability, learning from mistakes, and applying lessons to succeed. • Focus on targeting upscale clientele with higher incomes and larger moving needs for growth. • Franchising can accelerate growth and success in the moving industry. • Adapting marketing strategies based on customer demographics is crucial for business success. • AI technology is revolutionizing the moving industry by automating inventory and quoting processes. • Adapting business strategies to changing market conditions is essential for businesses to thrive. Connect with Wade Swikle https://www.linkedin.com/in/wadeswikle/ Connect with Stas Balanevsky: https://www.eosworldwide.com/stas-balanevsky

    Ep 04: Entrepreneurial Journey: Competing Against Yourself

    Play Episode Listen Later May 21, 2024 43:07


    Michael Williams, founder of Williams Media, began his entrepreneurial journey unexpectedly at the age of 27 while working in sales and marketing for his family's business. His perspective on the entrepreneurial journey and its associated learnings stem from his improvised entry into the business world and his subsequent experiences. Williams asserts that entrepreneurship often involves taking risks, admitting mistakes, and learning from those errors to grow and improve as a business owner. Having grappled with challenges and the constant feeling of being behind, he highlights the value of perseverance and learning from tough moments. His experience, therefore, underscores the necessity of grit, resilience, and continuous learning in the entrepreneurial world, influenced by his own journey from design and marketing neophyte to successful business owner. Here's what to expect this episode: • Entrepreneurs often learn more from their failures than their successes. • Starting an agency can be a challenging journey, focusing on internal growth rather than external competition is crucial. • Entrepreneurs often fall into the trap of constantly comparing themselves to others, hindering their own success and progress. • Pitching and winning business is about showcasing the unique value you bring and celebrating the success of others. • The importance of expertise and collaboration in professional growth is emphasized. • The concept of an abundance mindset in competition is discussed, highlighting the importance of serving many people and fostering a sense of community. • Competing with One's Best Self involves focusing on personal growth, improvement, and celebrating the successes of others. Connect with Michael Williams https://www.linkedin.com/in/imichaelwilliams/ Connect with Stas Balanevsky: https://www.eosworldwide.com/stas-balanevsky

    Ep 03: Building an Iconic American Brand with General's Hot Sauce

    Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2024 35:21


    Dan Ballister, a native of western New York and a navy veteran, embarked on his entrepreneurial journey with a unique transition from digital media to hot sauce production, founding General's Hot Sauce in 2012. His journey is marked by his passion for creating, building, and his constant quest for authenticity and hard work. Uniquely, his entrepreneurial spirit is deeply rooted in his commitment to social impact, specifically in supporting veterans and their families, showcasing his dedication to giving back to the community. His successful inclusion in the Inc 5000 list is a testament to his drive and his ability to build a sustainable and growing business. In summary, Dan Ballister's entrepreneurial journey is characterized by humility, gratitude, constant improvement, and significant community impact. Here's what to expect this episode: • Building a great American brand and giving back to military and veteran families through donations and hiring initiatives. • Business growth requires navigating uncertainties, identifying potential risks, and addressing problems proactively. • Importance of cash management as the lifeblood of a small business and learning from mistakes to prevent future setbacks. • Maintaining high product quality standards by avoiding shortcuts, using natural ingredients, and establishing a competitive edge. • Gradual automation of the bottling process to optimize efficiency, balance supply and demand, and enhance overall operation. • Making the veteran community equity holders in the business, giving back through a $1 million check in the event of a liquidity event, and empowering veterans. Connect with Dan Ballister https://www.generalshotsauce.com/ Connect with Stas Balanevsky: https://www.eosworldwide.com/stas-balanevsky

    Ep 02: The Power of Emotional Intelligence in Entrepreneurship

    Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2024 29:39


    Michael Wright, the CEO of ODL, an orthodontic laboratory, and co-founder of several other ventures, including a school for grades K-8, has a deep-seated passion for entrepreneurship and has faced his fair share of challenges along the way. Wright's perspective on the role of fear in entrepreneurship is shaped by his own experiences and is grounded in the belief that it is essential to trust one's gut instinct and make tough decisions, even if they might not be popular. He underlines the importance of self-awareness and understanding the motivations behind one's decisions, as well as learning from mistakes and failures. From his standpoint, growth and success in the entrepreneurial sphere stem from taking calculated risks, meeting challenges head-on, and continuously adapting to an ever-changing environment, despite any uncertainties or doubts. His journey underscores the value of perseverance, resilience, and a readiness to step out of one's comfort zone for long-term success. Here's what to expect this episode: • Flexibility and adaptability are crucial in seizing new opportunities and pivoting directions when needed. • Enduring short-term pain is necessary for achieving long-term success in business. • Recognizing emotional and physical cues is crucial for guiding decision-making in challenging situations. • Pushing past fear and recognizing underlying fears are essential for personal growth. • Trusting instincts and seeking mentorship are key in the entrepreneurial journey. • Listening to one's instincts despite skepticism can lead to significant successes in business. • Embracing failures, making tough decisions, and trusting instincts are important aspects of entrepreneurship. Connect with Michael Wright https://odlortho.com/ Connect with Stas Balanevsky: https://www.eosworldwide.com/stas-balanevsky

    Ep 01: Dedication, Hustle, and Gratitude: Building Successful Enterprises

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2024 35:16


    Rob Mikulec is an accomplished entrepreneur who transitioned from a career in stockbroking and banking into a successful journey of entrepreneurship, equipped with insights from his experience in a family business and expertise in commercial credit analysis and portfolio management. From his perspective, the entrepreneurial journey is a challenging one that requires risk-taking, decision-making under pressure, and a deep understanding of partnership dynamics. Mikulec believes that resilience and focus are key elements for success in entrepreneurship, as evidenced by his own experiences of triumphs and trials. He views entrepreneurship as a continual learning process that demands adaptability, perseverance, and a readiness to seize new opportunities. Alongside running three different companies, he is passionate about giving back to the community by sharing his knowledge and skills through speaking engagements and mentorship activities. Here's what to expect this episode: Resilience, adaptability, and seizing opportunities are crucial in the business world. Continuous learning, embracing new ventures, and personal development are key in entrepreneurship. Reflecting on challenges, missteps, and learning from failures are essential for long-term success in business. Trusting gut instincts, gathering data, and working with trustworthy individuals are important in making informed decisions. Optimizing saleable metrics, setting aside ego, and utilizing expert guidance are vital in maximizing company value.            Implementing Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) ensures organizational growth, alignment of goals, and enhanced efficiency. Connect with Robert Mikulec https://www.linkedin.com/in/robmikulec/ Connect with Stas Balanevsky: https://www.eosworldwide.com/stas-balanevsky                                  

    Founder's Dinner - Trailer

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2024 2:14


    Many believe that the true essence of entrepreneurship lies not in unblemished success, but in the rich learnings drawn from setbacks and challenges. 'Founder's Dinner, Stories of Entrepreneurial Wins, Losses, and Lessons,' hosted by Stas Balanevsky, invites you to delve into the captivating narratives of entrepreneurs, uncovering the pivotal moments that shaped their journeys. This podcast is a must-listen for aspiring and established entrepreneurs alike, offering invaluable insights into the transformative power of resilience and adaptation.

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