Founders Story

Isaiah Tatum and Noel Stemn started their business in Tatum's basement, with the two longtime friends juicing fruits and vegetables and coming up with new recipes for fresh, healthy and delicious juices and smoothies.Now, the pair has its own store, Woo Juice, which is located in the Midtown Mall in downtown Worcester.Tatum and Stemn met in middle school at the Nativity School of Worcester and have been friends ever since. They always knew they wanted to start a business together, but weren't sure what they wanted to do. When Tatum took a trip to Atlanta, he saw juice and smoothie bars around the city, and realized there was nothing like it back home in Worcester.The menu takes inspiration from the surrounding area, as well, with most of the drinks named after streets and neighborhoods of Worcester, like “Green Hill Glow,” “Gold Star Bully,” “Water St. Cure,” “Kelley Splash” and “Tatnuck Tea.”Every drink is made in the store with fresh fruits and vegetables and no additives.Learn more at: https://www.woojuice508.com or stop by at: 22 Front St, Worcester, MA 01608 

Today we are joined by Joe Astrella and Vinny Astrella founders of Rocco's Doughnut Company. The Astrella family has always been involved with doughnuts in one way or another, whether it was with Joe's father, Rocco, being an original Dunkin franchise owner, or other family members owning doughnut shops throughout Massachusetts. Since the beginning, Joe has involved his children, Vinny, Dominic, and Kerri and now they are the future of Rocco's. The rich family history is what inspires them to make some of the best doughnuts in Massachusetts, and the way they use social media to show their doughnuts is a master class on how to build hype for your product. Have a listen to Rocco's Doughnut Company Founders Story!Connect with Joe and Vinny at Rocco's Doughnut Company:https://roccosdonuts.square.site/https://www.facebook.com/roccodoughnutco/https://www.instagram.com/roccodoughnutcohttps://www.tiktok.com/@roccodoughnutcoConnect with the Host, Rick Porter https://www.linkedin.com/in/mr-rick-porter/ https://www.instagram.com/mr_rick_porter/Follow Cinch I.T.https://www.youtube.com/c/CinchITTV https://www.facebook.com/CinchITConsulting https://www.instagram.com/cinch.it/ https://twitter.com/cinchithttps://www.cinchit.comSupport The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests.  

Today we are joined by Todd Snopkowski Co-Founder and CEO of SNAPchef. SNAPchef is New England's premier on-demand hospitality training and staffing solution, connecting job seekers to job opportunities. Founded by chef Todd Snopkowski and his wife Daniela. The idea for SNAPchef is a culmination of years of experience and recognizing the gap in the availability of qualified, supplementary staff. It is because of their passion to fill this need within the industry that SNAPchef was born and has been running successfully since 2002. In that time, SNAPchef has gone from the pen and paper old-school staffing agency to revolutionizing the industry with its fully online and automated platform.Have a listen to SNAPchef's Founders Story!Connect with Todd Snopkowski at SNAPchef:https://www.linkedin.com/in/snapchef/https://snapchef.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/snapchefhttps://www.facebook.com/snapchefculinaryhttps://www.instagram.com/chefsnapConnect with the Host, Rick Porter https://www.linkedin.com/in/mr-rick-porter/ https://www.instagram.com/mr_rick_porter/Follow Cinch I.T.https://www.youtube.com/c/CinchITTV https://www.facebook.com/CinchITConsulting https://www.instagram.com/cinch.it/ https://twitter.com/cinchithttps://www.cinchit.comSupport The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests.  

Today we are joined by Michael Jones, CEO and Luke Magnan, COO from Combined Ratio Solutions. They specialize in insurance technology software that allows insurance companies to better leverage their relationships with agents to increase profitability. They meet during a business trip, started a company, and had venture capital funding pulled out from under them right before they were expecting to launch; but then went on to build a business of over 100+ employees in four short years! Have a listen to Combined Ratio Solutions Founders Story!Connect with Michael Jones and Luke Magnan at Combined Ratio Solutions:https://www.combinedratio.com/https://www.linkedin.com/company/combined-ratio-solutions/https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-jones-94b2827/https://www.linkedin.com/in/lukemagnan/Connect with the Host, Rick Porter https://www.linkedin.com/in/mr-rick-porter/ https://www.instagram.com/mr_rick_porter/Follow Cinch I.T.https://www.youtube.com/c/CinchITTV https://www.facebook.com/CinchITConsulting https://www.instagram.com/cinch.it/ https://twitter.com/cinchithttps://www.cinchit.comSupport The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests.  

Today we are joined by David O'Donnell, Chairman and Founder of The Patriot Financial Group. David was in the financial business for 20 years before he had the vision of what The Patriot Financial Group would become. Over the past 18 years, David has grown Patriot Financial Group to 89 representatives across 9 states and is one of the largest financial groups in the area. His vision of building teams of different expertise and independence was the innovative he saw for the financial service industry.    Have a listen to The Patriot Financial Group's Founders Story!Connect with David O'Donnell at The Patriot Financial Group:od@patriotfinancialgroup.orghttps://patriotfinancialgroup.org/https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-patriot-financial-group/Connect with the Host, Rick Porter https://www.linkedin.com/in/mr-rick-porter/ https://www.instagram.com/mr_rick_porter/Follow Cinch I.T.https://www.youtube.com/c/CinchITTV https://www.facebook.com/CinchITConsulting https://www.instagram.com/cinch.it/ https://twitter.com/cinchithttps://www.cinchit.comSupport The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests.  

 Drink Well, Do Good! Today we are joined by Troy Milliken, one of the founders of Seven Saws Brewing Company. The idea for starting the brewery happened when the founders of Seven Saws Brewing Company were talking around a fire pit about how their community needed a place to hang out. A place where people would actively engage with one another all while drinking a refreshing locally brewed beer. That is when Troy Milliken, Tom Anderson, Thomas Mulroy, Paul Mulroy, and soon after Greg Cedrone, got to work building Sevens Saws Brewing Company to what it is today. Have a listen to Seven Saws Brewing Company Founders Story!Connect with Troy Milliken at Seven Saws Brewing Company:https://www.sevensawsbrewing.com/https://www.facebook.com/sevensawsbrewing/https://www.instagram.com/sevensawsbrewing/Main Street Taproom1148 Main StreetHolden, MassachusettsBrew House + Taproom112 Industrial DriveHolden, MassachusettsConnect with the Host, Rick Porter https://www.linkedin.com/in/mr-rick-porter/ https://www.instagram.com/mr_rick_porter/Follow Cinch I.T.https://www.youtube.com/c/CinchITTV https://www.facebook.com/CinchITConsulting https://www.instagram.com/cinch.it/ https://twitter.com/cinchithttps://www.cinchit.comSupport The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests.  

Today we are joined by Tory Gisleson, Owner of True North Personal Training. They are formerly known as True North Performance Training. Tory started his career as an infantry Marine, after he finished his service in the Marines he worked security. While working in security he got his personal trainer certificate and started working with Mike Covino. This is what leads Mike and Tory to partner together to open True North Performance Training and eventually create a performance race team known as the "Nth Degree Race Team". Tory describes what the experience is like at True North Personal Training, whether it's for an ultra marathon or simply to become the best you that you want to be. Have a listen to the True North Personal Training Founders Story!  Connect with Tory Gisleson at True North Personal Training:https://www.truenorthtrainers.com/https://www.facebook.com/truenorthtrainershttps://www.instagram.com/truenorthtrainers/To The Nth Degree Podcasthttps://nthdegree.buzzsprout.com/Connect with the Host, Rick Porter https://www.linkedin.com/in/mr-rick-porter/ https://www.instagram.com/mr_rick_porter/Follow Cinch I.T.https://www.youtube.com/c/CinchITTV https://www.facebook.com/CinchITConsulting https://www.instagram.com/cinch.it/ https://twitter.com/cinchithttps://www.cinchit.com Support The Show If you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests. Support The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests. 

Today we are joined by Casey Cormier, President of Angel-GUARD Products and US Tool and Fastener. Casey talks about growing up with Angel-GUARD and doing a little bit of everything within the company. He discusses why they originally started working with the Center of Hope as a way to give back to the community and trying to figure out ways to keep their workers employed year-round. Casey also shares how they went through the purchasing process of US Tool and Fastener and how important it was to have a dedicated staff. Casey attributes his success with his transition to becoming the President and the purchase of US Tool and Fastener to the trust that his employees had with him. Have a listen to the Angel-Guard Founders Story!  Connect with Casey Cormier at Angel-Guard and US Tool & Fastener:Angel-GUARDProductshttps://angelguardproducts.com/https://www.facebook.com/AngelGuardInc/https://www.instagram.com/angelguardinc/https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-guard-products-inc/US Tool & Fastenerhttps://www.ustoolandfastener.com/https://www.facebook.com/ShopUSTFhttps://www.instagram.com/shopustf/Connect with the Host, Rick Porter https://www.linkedin.com/in/mr-rick-porter/ https://www.instagram.com/mr_rick_porter/Follow Cinch I.T.https://www.youtube.com/c/CinchITTV https://www.facebook.com/CinchITConsulting https://www.instagram.com/cinch.it/ https://twitter.com/cinchithttps://www.cinchit.comSupport The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests.  

Today we are joined by Karim El-Gamal and Michael Kasseris founders of  The Rail Trail Flatbread Co.,  New City Microcreamery, and  Less Than Greater Than all of which are located in downtown Hudson, MA. Karim and Michael have always been in and around the restaurant business growing up, and when they met at Babson College getting their MBA's they hit it off. They were bouncing around different ideas before finally landing on the idea of opening a pizza restaurant, and the rest is history.Karim and Michael open up about their history growing up and how having a supportive family was so helpful. They discuss where and how they cut their teeth in the restaurant world before starting their own restaurant.  Michael talks about how they conducted market research before deciding on any ideas or locations. Karim talks about how vital it was to have a supportive family and a mentor to help them build up their restaurants. Michael tells us how Jason Kleinerman joined the team and eventually became a business partner.Have a listen to the Rail Trail Flatbread Co. Founders Story!  Connect with Karim El-Gamal, Michael Kasseris, and Jason Kleinerman:Rail Trail Flatbread Co.https://railtrailflatbread.com/https://www.instagram.com/railtrailflatbreadco/?hl=enhttps://www.facebook.com/railtrailflatbread/New City Microcreameryhttps://newcitymicrocreamery.com/https://www.instagram.com/newcitymicrocreamery/https://www.facebook.com/newcitymicrocreamery?ref=hlLess Than Greater Thanhttps://www.lessthangreaterthan.com/https://www.instagram.com/lessthan_greaterthan/https://www.facebook.com/lessthangreaterthan/Support The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests. 

Have you ever been put in a situation where you had to change all of your life's goals in an instant? Greta found herself in such a situation near the end of high school when she became pregnant, though this isn't where Greta's story ends. She hustled and worked hard to get her college degree and reimagined a new dream that would work with her new situation in life. She battled against the adversity of not only being a woman in a man dominated field but also being an immigrant that had to teach herself English at a young age. Greta's story is incredibly motivating, showing that anyone can find success, but only the fearless can be great. After listening to Greta's story you will agree that Greta is fearless!What life event is getting in your way of being fearless and preventing you from being great?Connect with Greta Bajrami, Golden Group Roofing, and Rootless Me:https://goldengrouproofing.com/https://www.facebook.com/GoldenGroupRoofing/https://www.instagram.com/goldengrouproofing/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsNiiU2nldw6kR42s_9rn7Qhttps://www.rootlessme.com/https://www.instagram.com/rootless.me/ Support The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests. 

Paul Wengender got into the brewery business a little bit differently than the average brewer, but when you listen to him describe his founder's story his journey begins to make a lot of sense. From starting a Bio-Tech company to starting a brewery with a great culture, Paul has the experience and an accompanying story for almost everything.  Did you know that their beer Pulp Daddy, Pulp is actually an acronym? Tell us what you think it is! Shoutout to our friends Mike Covino and Tory Gisleson from the "To The Nth Degree Podcast". If you're into endurance sports we highly recommend listening to their show, where they interview the best endurance athletes in the country!https://nthdegree.buzzsprout.com/https://www.instagram.com/to_the_nth_degree/ Connect with Paul Wengender and Greater Good Imperial Brewing Company:https://greatergoodimperials.com/ https://www.facebook.com/greatergoodimperials https://www.instagram.com/greatergoodimperials/ Support The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests. 

After being trained in fine dining and working in the industry, Brian Treitman decided that he wanted to start a side hustle selling BBQ at the Brimfield Antique Show out of a handbuilt trailer, with no experience cooking brisket. Brian now has three locations for you to enjoy B.T.'s Smokehouse, from Sturbridge to Polar Park in Worcester. Please join us as Brian walks us through his founder's story and the struggles he's had to overcome throughout the years to get B.T.'s Smokehouse to where it is today. Connect with Brian Treitman, B.T.'s Smokehouse and B.T.'s Fried Chicken and BBQ:https://www.btsmokehouse.com/https://www.facebook.com/BTSmokehouse/https://www.instagram.com/btsmokehouse/https://btschickenandbbq.com/https://www.instagram.com/chix_n_bbq/https://www.facebook.com/BTSworcester/Support The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests. 

We talk to Bob Davis from The Davis Companies here in Marlborough, MA about how he founded his company, from leaving high school in the 10th grade to pursue a logistics career and getting into employment services early on when he saw an opportunity at a young age. Bob even shares a couple of his thoughts on Mickey Mouse. One thing you need to know about The Davis Companies is the excellent company culture they have, listen to find out what Bob's three pillars are for his company. Connect with Bob Davis and Davis Companies:https://daviscos.com/https://www.facebook.com/daviscompanies/https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-davis-companies/https://www.instagram.com/thedaviscos/https://twitter.com/TheDavisCoshttps://www.youtube.com/user/DAVISCompanies/videosSupport The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests. 

Julia Becker Collins is our guest this week and she brings ALL of her high energy to the interview. Julia shares her history in school and her career path. If you find yourself struggling with school, you don't like school, or you're in a position where you haven't found your career yet, this episode is for you! Also, Julia recommends that you watch the movie "Office Space" before starting your own business.Connect with Julia Becker Collins and Vision Advertisinghttps://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-becker-collins/https://www.vision-advertising.com/https://www.facebook.com/visionadvertisinghttps://www.instagram.com/visionadvertisingrocks/https://www.linkedin.com/company/vision-advertising/Connect with Metrowest Women's Network:https://metrowestwomen.com/https://www.facebook.com/MetroWestWomensNetwork/https://www.instagram.com/metrowestwomensnetwork/Support The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests. 

Join us as David tells the wild founding story of Wormtown Brewery when it was just Ben Roesch and Tom Oliveri and their humble beginnings at Peppercorns to one of the top Breweries in New England. Connect with David Fields and Wormtown Brewery:http://wormtownbrewery.com/https://wormtownbrewery.myshopify.com/https://www.facebook.com/wormtownbrewery/https://www.instagram.com/wormtownbrewery/Support The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests. 

Lysa Miller is the founder of Ladybugz Interactive Agency, located in Southboro, MA. She started doing web design the traditional way by working for a company and soon started to moonlight on the side, all while being a young mom of four kids. Lysa has had to evolve her business many times over the years and has had to build up resilience along the way. Join us as we listen to Lysa's founder's story. Her future is so bright she has to wear shades! Connect with Lysa and Ladybugz:https://www.ladybugz.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/lysapreneur/https://www.facebook.com/lysapreneur/https://twitter.com/lysapreneurSupport The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests. 

Troy Siebels has been the president and CEO of The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts for over 17 years! He was tasked with raising money to renovate the theatre to bring it back to its former glory. Troy originally started to raise money based on what the arts do for the community. He soon found out that the local community didn't care about that as much as they cared about increasing the value in downtown Worcester. Troy was the first and only employee for the first three years of the theatre's life. As the Hanover Theatre grew Troy saw other opportunities to educate the community about live performing arts with the conservatory. There is a lot of information to listen to in this episode if you have ever wondered how the Hanover Theatre got started.Connect with Troy and The Hanover Theatre:https://thehanovertheatre.org/https://www.instagram.com/thehanovertheatre/https://twitter.com/HanoverTheatrehttps://www.facebook.com/thehanovertheatre/https://www.youtube.com/c/TheHanoverTheatreWorcester/featuredSupport The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests. 

Victor DeOliveira is the founder of Discover Marble and Granite in Millbury, Massachusetts. He started out with a passion for flying and became a commercial pilot but after the events of 9/11, he lost his job, but rather than sitting idly by waiting for something he created his own fortune and founded his company. Victor saw an opportunity in the market to be a B2B wholesaler for granite and focused on that market exclusively. Victor took what he learned as a pilot and applied it to the business to get through the various economic downturns and to also make the right investments for the future when sales were high. "You can go full throttle when things are good and when you want to grow. But you can coast a little bit, you can reduce that power, you can adjust it, you can conserve fuel. You can do different things." - Victor DeOliveira, about running a business is like flying an airplaneDiscover Marble & Granite is the leading importer, manufacturer, and installer of natural stone and quartz surfaces in New England and Florida. Specializing in residential and commercial interior work through our strong network of Kitchen & Bath professionalsConnect with Victor and Discover Marble:(508) 438-6900https://discovermarble.com/https://www.facebook.com/discoversurfaceshttps://www.instagram.com/discoversurfaces/Support The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests. 

AiVi Nguyen is an incredibly inspirational woman and has accomplished a lot in her life by being herself and standing out from the crowd. AiVi talks about the importance of knowing who you are, knowing what you want to accomplish, and how to merge the two into something that you really enjoy doing to find joy in your life. A piece of advice Aivi had gotten that has always helped her was "Do not join a board unless you plan on chairing." We also talk about how delicious Glazy Susan doughnuts are.  AiVi is a recipient of an Inspirational Women of Worcester Award, presented by Worcester Union Athletics in March 2019. Worcester Business Journal's Outstanding Women in Business Award in 2017. YWCA of Central Massachusetts Katharine F. Erskine award in the category of Business & Law in 2016. Worcester Business Journal's "40 under 40" in 2015.  Connect with AiVi Nguyen:https://www.bowditch.com/attorney/aivi-nguyen/https://www.linkedin.com/in/aivi-nguyen-11207232/Support The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests. 

In this episode, we talk to David Hagan the Executive Director of Why Me & Sherry's House. David talks about the origins of Why Me and its grassroots efforts to help children and their families to what it is today. Rick also has a surprise announcement at the end in support of Why Me and its mission, so listen to the end and keep an ear open for future details and announcements. Why Me is a Worcester Based non-profit organization created to help Central New England families cope with childhood cancer. Why Me is not affiliated with any national organization.Why Me was started in 1985 by 13-year-old Sherry Shepherd during her four year battle with cancer. In the last months of her life, Sherry became determined to do something that would have a lasting value in the community to help children with cancer. With the help of her dad, she founded the non-profit organization WHY ME, which stands for Worcester Help for Youth, Memories Everlasting. David began his relationship with Why Me in 1993 as a dad when his son, Ben, was diagnosed with leukemia. Donate to Why Me today:https://whyme.org/get-involved/donateLearn more about Why Me's fundraising events:https://whyme.org/get-involved/fundraising-eventsConnect with Why Me & Sherry's House:https://www.whyme.orghttps://www.facebook.com/WhyMeSherrysHousehttps://www.instagram.com/whymesherryshouseSupport The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests. 

Today Rick talks to William Wallace, the Executive Director of the Worcester Historical Museum. They dive into the history of Worcester and the businesses and founders who helped build Worcester to what it is today. Worcester has a rich industrial history that is known for retooling its focus to whatever the needs of the people were. Worcester Historical Museum (WHM) is the only institution devoted to local history. It includes a research library of over 7,000 titles, an archive that houses thousands of documents, and a collection of artifacts, all vital to the study of Worcester history. Connect with the Worcester Historical Museum:info@worcesterhistory.nethttps://www.worcesterhistory.orghttps://www.instagram.com/worcesterhistoricalmuseumhttps://www.facebook.com/worcesterhistorySupport The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests. 

Does getting a game featured in Apple's App Store mean it will be an automatic success and make money? Ryan describes what it's like starting his game development studio while in college and getting their first game featured in Apple's App Store. Ryan also discusses how they have found creative ways to build revenue that keeps them independent.Petricore, Inc. is an interactive software development company located in Worcester, MA that specializes in full-service game development. Founded in early 2015, the Petricore team has completed over 40+ projects for clients, with that number growing each day.Producer on game projects and contracts, Ryan also manages the Business growth and day-to-day operations. He can be seen often at a networking event near you spreading the good word of Petricore.Connect with Ryan Canuel and Petricore:https://www.petricoregames.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/petricore-inchttps://twitter.com/PetricoreGameshttps://www.facebook.com/PetricoreIncSupport The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests. 

Renee Diaz is the owner and founder of The Queen's Cups and Diazsta Designs. We talk to Renee about borrowing money from an ex-boyfriend, becoming obsessed with baking and practicing until she was great at it, and about sacrificing and working hard now to have the life that she has always dreamed of. Renee talks about the huge year she had in 2019 in both her business life and her personal life. After graduating from Worcester State, Renee's interest in baking grew and she began learning how to bake from scratch in her parent's kitchen in Millbury. Renee started using social media to post photos of her creations and before long, had people reaching out to purchase her baked goods. Word of mouth about her cupcakes began spreading quickly. In 2012, Renee King opened The Queen's Cups in her hometown of Millbury, MA. In 2017 Queen's Cups moved from Millbury to the Canal District in Worcester. Then in 2020, she started her new business, Diazsta Designs, which is a small event planning company that specializes in curating detailed gatherings catered towards a guest of honor or a group of loved ones.Connect with Renee Diaz at:https://www.thequeenscups.comhttps://www.instagram.com/thequeenscupshttps://www.diazstadesigns.comhttps://www.instagram.com/diazstadesignsSupport The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests. 

Dr. Peter Percuoco graduated from Hudson High School in 1983 and studied at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) and Framingham State University.  He received his Doctoral Degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic in 1989.  In 1990, he opened Percuoco Chiropractic Office.  After a few brief years, he became passionate about the study of Neurology.  He studied post graduate clinical neurology for 6 years before taking the Neurology Boards.  He received his professional degree in Neurology in 1999 as the Valedictorian of his class. He has held post graduate teaching appointments in Clinical Neurology for 4 institutions; Logan Chiropractic University, Cleveland Chiropractic College, The Carrick Institute for Graduate Studies and the National University of Health Sciences.  He have traveled extensively throughout Europe and the United States teaching Clinical Neurology to Chiropractic and Medical doctors. He now not only runs a very successful practice but also travels the world as a motivation speaker. Connect with Dr. Percuoco:https://pcncenter.com/https://www.instagram.com/drpercuoco/Support The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests. 

Today we are joined by Dino Verrelli  the Founder of Project Purple. Founder, Dino Verrelli's father, Gionvanni, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2008. After a year of several chemotherapy treatments and a variety of other painful procedures, he seemed to be out of the woods. But in 2010, the cancer returned, only this time with a vengeance, meaning surgery was no longer an option.“He lost his battle on September 5, 2011. I promised my father before he passed that we will never give up on defeating pancreatic cancer!” – Dino VerrelliProject Purple's primary fundraising comes from participating in Marathons, Half Marathons, and 5K Races across the country; including the top four U.S. marathons. Their team consists of runners from all over the world, most of them have been touched by pancreatic cancer.Connect with Dino and Project Purple:https://www.projectpurple.org/https://www.facebook.com/Run4ProjectPurplehttps://www.instagram.com/projectpurple/Support The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests. 

Today we are joined by Allison Barbera the Founder of Allison Barbera Beauty.Allison Barbera Beauty is a team of makeup artists and hair stylists with a passion for the beauty industry. They believe that everyone has something beautiful about them, and they're here to help bring that beauty out.Listen to how Allison grew from a part time esthetician to a awarding winning company doing work for film and tv and booking over 100 wedding a year.Connect with Allison and Allison Barbera Beauty:https://www.allisonbarbera.com/ info@AllisonBarbera.com(774) 696-4546Support The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests. 

Today we are joined by Michael Flanagan the Co-Founder of Mortgage Unity. Mortgage Unity is a full service mortgage brokerage that has been specifically built for the consumer, real estate professional and mortgage professional to work together creating a better consumer experience. By taking a collaborative approach to mortgage finance, Mortgage Unity can effectively and efficiently help consumers finance their life's largest purchase, their home.Connect with Michael and Mortgage Unity:https://mortgageunity.com/ mike@mortgageunity.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeltflanagan/ (508) 251-6994 Support The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests. 

Today we are joined by Mike Covino co-founder of Niche Hospitality. Niche Hospitality Group creates restaurants that have specific appeal and strong identities with signature food and beverage items. We develop food, wine, and cocktail menus that are not only specific to a concept but are unsurpassed in quality and selection. We use these menu items, our atmosphere, our commitment to service, and most importantly, enlightened hospitality to deliver a memorable experience.Mike opens up and talks about watching his Uncles manage their businesses when he was young and the inspiration he drew from them. Starting his very first restaurant and his progression into hit restaurant after hit restaurant. He discusses the challenge of managing employees and the improvements he had to make in order to be the leader he is today. Have a listen to the Niche Hospitality Founders Story!  Connect with Mike Covino and Niche Hospitality:https://www.nichehospitality.com RESTAURANTS:https://www.bocadotapasbar.com https://www.thefixburgerbar.comhttps://www.mezcalcantina.comSupport The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests. 

Today we are joined by John “Jay” Barron founder of Barron Law – Title and Closings. Barron Law is a boutique law firm specializing exclusively in real estate title and closings. With more than 15 years of experience in the industry, they are well known for their problem-solving abilities and personal relationships with their clients. John “Jay” Barron, Esq.Born in Uxbridge, Jay attended the Uxbridge Public Schools. He served in the U.S. Army as a combat radio operator. After an honorable discharge from the Army, Jay attended Worcester State College and then Suffolk University Law School.After graduation, Jay worked as an associate for a few firms until co-founding Cahn & Barron, LLC. He later eventually founded the Barron Law Title & Closings. P.C.Jay is a practicing real estate conveyancing attorney. He handles all aspects of a real estate closing deed and represents clients throughout Massachusetts.Some of his clients include buyers, sellers, lenders, and investors. Jay and his family currently live in Sutton, MA.Connect with John "Jay" Barron and Barron Law:https://barronclosings.com/https://www.facebook.com/barronclosings/   info@barronclosings.com53 East Central StreetWorcester, MA 01605, US(508) 755-5779Support The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests. 

Formed in 1997, Real Living Barbera Associates has been recognized as the most trusted full-service residential and commercial real estate brand by the 2017 Harris Poll Equitrend Study. Affiliated with the fifth largest and one of the fastest growing real estate firms in the nation, they  offer cutting-edge technology and exclusive resources and tools for their clientele. Coupled with the extensive resources of a large corporation, they are also a local family-owned business that has demonstrated a strong commitment to its clients by offering a level of unmatched service by others in the industry. They have proudly nurtured a close-knit family of personable expert agents that have unrivaled knowledge and experience of the Worcester County and Greater-Boston area real estate market. They take pride in the relationships and trust that they build with their clients.  Founder, Michael Barbera obtained his MA real estate salesperson license in 2002 while still attending high school. After completion of college, he continued his career in real estate sales while operating a property management firm. Michael later obtained Real Estate Broker Licenses in MA and RI and took over the family business. He now operates Real Living Barbera Associates, a 30+ agent real estate firm specializing in residential sales and commercial sales/ leasing throughout MA and RI with over $75 million dollars in annual sales. Michael is passionate about serving his clients and developing his salespeople to excel in their field. He credits the company's success to bringing aboard quality agents.Connect with Michael and Real Living Barbera Associates:https://www.realliving.com/barbera-associatesbarbera.associates@realliving.com (508) 852-4227SSupport The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests. 

Cheaper Than The Kid Next Door provides year-round property landscaping and maintenance, which includes lawn mowing, fertilizing, spring and fall cleanups, de-thatching, aerating, seeding, mulching, edging, and snow plowing in Worcester, West Boylston, Holden, and Rutland.He started his company when he found a broken industry. Poor customer service and lack of reliability in the industry, lead him to start his own landscaping company that would be different. Years later his business is thriving, he has won the Worcester Business Journal's Best of Business three years running. Connect with Brandon and Cheaper Than The Kid Next Door:https://www.cheaperthanthekidnextdoor.com/  https://www.facebook.com/Cheaperthanthekidnextdoor/Support The ShowIf you enjoy listening, the easiest way to show your support is by leaving us a review on  iTunes or Podchaser. You can also tell your family and friends about Founders Story wherever they listen to podcasts. Subscribe to Our Monthly NewsletterSubscribe here to receive notifications so you never miss a new episode. Plus, our newsletters feature exclusive behind-the-scenes bonus content and ways to connect with our guests.