Orange County Business Success

In this episode, Chris talks with Sue Rudolph, owner of Absolutely Amazing Travel, a travel agency that specializes in exotic travel and action adventures. Sue has been engaging with diverse cultures,  creating experiential travel custom itineraries, and planning active adventures since 1994. To raise funds and to advance her advocacy in protecting wildlife, Sue also organizes international marathons. Chris and Sue discuss the importance of finding your niche, choosing your support system, and being resilient when faced with uncertainties in business. “It has not been an easy time, but I keep pushing down. I've always wanted to be successful. And, so I've always worked on it, trying to figure out ways to keep the business going.” ~ Sue Rudolph Main takeaways  Finding your niche and properly capitalizing on it can ensure your company's longevity. There is no blueprint, so dive into new opportunities, assess the market, and narrow them down until you find the perfect one for you. Career satisfaction is a great indicator of success. It's easier to move up the ladder and make a name for yourself in your field if you're happy with what you're doing. Detach from negative people and stay connected to those who are positive and supportive of your journey. Business owners must be resilient. Learn to pivot and adapt when unforeseen catastrophes happen. Links Sue Rudolph on Linkedin Absolutely Amazing Travel Official Website Absolutely Amazing Travel on Facebook Absolutely Amazing Travel on Instagram Connect with Chris Chris Struckhoff website Connect with Chris on LinkedIn Follow Chris on Twitter Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts

In this episode, Chris talks with David Hanacek, Owner of CanCoverIt and EcoCycle Solutions. David is a prolific inventor and he holds patents on different DIY and eco-friendly products. With expertise in engineering and manufacturing, David is passionate about creating and designing sustainable solutions for the yet unmet needs of the market. Chris and David discuss the significance of effective problem-solving, capital funding, and the disruptive innovation in physical products-based businesses. “That's what is really critical about any product. It's not just one aspect of it; It's a user experience that goes along with it. That's why, obviously, as much as I can, I do planning. I love it because the complexity of it will definitely keep you thinking and alert even in my old age.” ~ David Hanacek Main takeaways  Always remember that the pacesetters in an industry are not the top companies, but the consumers. Do extensive market research and look at consumer behavior instead of scrutinizing competitors' moves. Introduce simple solutions for complex problems. Design a product/service that is efficient, intuitive, and not too rigid. Fix the way that capital and thinking go together. As ideas keep coming, you have to keep funding coming in, too. It's the only way companies innovate and expand. Links David Hanacek on LinkedIn CanCoverit EcoCycle Solutions LA Times 3M Sherwin-Williams  Coinbase Bitcoin Facebook Tesla Azure GE Connect with Chris Chris Struckhoff website Connect with Chris on LinkedIn Follow Chris on Twitter Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts

In this episode, Chris talks with Jason Blackmore, Owner of JJAB Design, LLC, an architectural design firm based in Newport Beach.  Jason's firm creates spaces for families, individuals, and entrepreneurs that not only fit their needs but also bring style and comfort to their everyday lives. Before JJAB Design, Jason worked for the design and planning firm EwingCole, where he learned the ins and outs of a thriving architectural firm. Chris and Jason discuss the importance of humanizing your brand, the benefits of having a seamless onboarding process in a small business, and exceeding your customers' expectations. “I was working hard, keeping going, and I never changed my frame of mind from a struggling business owner to a successful business owner.” ~ Jason Blackmore Main takeaways  Humanize your brand. Create an approachable online presence so it's easy for you to connect with customers. Creating family-friendly policies can increase workplace productivity and promote customer retention. Consider outsourcing parts of your life and work so you can focus on your core business. Make sure that newly-onboarded team members fully understand the company's objectives and the duties at hand before they interact with your clients. The only way you can provide great service is by truly listening to your customers. When the customers think they are appreciated and their needs are being met, they stick with you over the long-term.  Links Jason Blackmore on LinkedIn JJAB Design, LLC on Facebook Craigslist AutoCAD Software Connect with Chris Chris Struckhoff website Connect with Chris on LinkedIn Follow Chris on Twitter Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts

In this episode, Chris talks with Bonnie Shaver Troup, Founder of Lexend and the Creator of the Lexend fonts. 10 years before Bonnie created Lexend, her six-month-old baby was diagnosed with cancer. The doctors told her it was inoperable. It was a painful and overwhelming experience, but set Bonnie on a path toward educational therapy, with a focus on dyslexia and reading.  Chris and Bonnie discuss the impact of Lexend fonts, creating the perfect typographic system for struggling readers, and changing how the world sees dyslexia.  “It's not dyslexia; it's print sensitivity. We're all sensitive to print. We are all sensitive to typographical factors. Those with dyslexia struggle with what we traditionally offer. And we can change that by changing the typographical factors. It happens in real-time, and it's not delayed evidence.'” ~ Bonnie Shaver-Troup Main takeaways  For Bonnie, it's all about changing how the world reads and improving the outcome. There are legible fonts, but the world needs more tools that can reduce visual stress. The priority when setting up a typographic system is to be readable for everyone—including the people with impairments. Things like reducing cognitive noise, increasing scaling, and expanding character spacing are important. Dyslexia and struggles with reading can be significantly improved if traditional typographical factors change. Links Bonnie Shaver-Troup on LinkedIn Lexend Google Fonts US Department of Education Microsoft365 Quicksand – Google Font Variable Fonts BMW Connect with Chris Chris Struckhoff website Connect with Chris on LinkedIn Follow Chris on Twitter Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts

In this episode, Chris talks with Kristen Del Dosso, owner of KDD Nutraceuticals. Since launching her business mid-pandemic, Kristen has created a family of products aimed at helping others overcome nausea and enjoy life to the fullest.   In one year, Kristen's mother was diagnosed with cancer, her father had hip replacement surgery, and the stress of her corporate job had Kristen's doctor worried she'd have a stroke at any moment. With a new understanding of life's fragility, Kristen decided it was time for a change. She had two big goals on her bucket list: leave her professional track and hike Mount Whitney. Eventually, Kristen found herself achieving both simultaneously – earning an MBA while training to hike the infamous peak.  Unfortunately, Kristen's twenty-hour hike was derailed by motion sickness and the sugar-filled protein bars in her back pocket only made things worse. The top of her mountain didn't look at all like she'd imagined or trained so hard for. Inspired by her plight and the entrepreneurship courses at UC Irvine, Kristen began the process of launching an all-natural, anti-nausea chew with the support of her classmates, friends, and family. Chris and Kristen discuss building a personal brand, finding a support system, and the one crucial step rising entrepreneurs, small businesses, and large corporations always forget.  “Even though I keep seeing the money go out, I keep getting these positive testimonials back. That is honestly what's fueling me to keep on going. It's not a, ‘I want to create a company,' it's, ‘I have to create a company because my chews help people feel better.'” ~ Kristen Del Dosso Main takeaways  Analyzing the economic cost of leaving your day job for entrepreneurship can feel agonizing. Instead, break larger goals into smaller chunks and work backward.  Find a support system that's like-minded, on a similar trajectory, and wants to see you succeed. They will help you celebrate wins and learn from missteps along the way. As an entrepreneur, creating a personal brand is just as important as building your business brand. Even your personal social media accounts are a reflection of your business. You should feel valued and cherished in your professional life. If you don't, find someplace that will appreciate your unique skill set.  Don't dip your toes into entrepreneurship. Jump in head-first, ideally backed by a strong support system.  Links Kristen on LinkedIn KDD Nutraceuticals KDD Nutraceuticals on Instagram UCI Paul Merage School of Business The Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge  I-Corps UCI Beall Applied Innovation UCI New Venture Competition  1 Million Cups 1 Million Cups Irvine Microsoft Excel Connect with Chris Chris Struckhoff website Connect with Chris on LinkedIn Follow Chris on Twitter Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts

In this episode, Chris talks with Reza Mir, engineer and owner of Care Patrol, a service helping senior citizens and their families understand their care needs and options.  Care Patrol comes from a place of personal experience. Reza lived through his grandmother's illness and the incredible emotional and financial stress it brought to his mother and the rest of their family who suddenly became caretakers. When Reza eventually immigrated to the United States and began school, an academic advisor suggested Reza consider entrepreneurship. After working as an engineer for several medical device companies, Reza took his advice and built a business around senior care to help families like his own in times of need.  Reza's experience at a startup solidified his entrepreneurial backbone and his background in academia instilled a love for education that he imparts to every client. Reza always strives to help struggling families truly understand their options.  Chris and Reza discuss preparing for business ownership, managing high stress, and the importance of building authentic relationships with the people you serve.  “You need to focus and keep working hard to get the result. Keep flying the airplane. My instructor used to tell me: ‘focus on flying the airplane, don't get distracted.' It would be, focus, work hard, and the reward will come to you.” ~ Reza Mir Main takeaways  Before starting a business, you must consider all of the risk factors and the unknown unknowns. Focus on value-first and consider taking an education-based approach to your business. The free value will reflect in your reviews, referrals, and customer loyalty.  Education can be key to improving client value and easing your life as a business owner.  Remember to keep a positive attitude and, of course, work hard. If you can stay focused on serving your clients, the rest will come to you. Links Reza on LinkedIn Care Patrol Siemens Meals On Wheels Hike For Alzheimer's Alzheimer's Orange County Connect with Chris Chris Struckhoff website Connect with Chris on LinkedIn Follow Chris on Twitter Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts

In this episode, Chris talks with Lu Ross, owner of Lu Ross Photography. Lu's art has been selected by the Wildling Museum of Art & Nature for their Centennial celebration and featured in several galleries and art shows.  Lu has always had a passion for creativity. After 14 years as a web developer, Lu realized how much she missed making art. So she went back to school for photography and started a business. Lu's mission is to use her artwork to help everyone feel connected to, at peace with, and respectful of the natural world around them. More than just a photographer, Lu has used her passion to generate multiple streams of income. Aside from selling her pieces and working with interior designers, she's taught professionally and even published a book.  Chris and Lu discuss life as a professional artist, the key relationships that drive entrepreneurial success, overcoming impossible hurdles, and the final wins that make it all worth it. “Focus on the value that you offer to your clients, create from the heart, and don't worry about the outcome.” ~ Lu Ross Main takeaways  Starting a business comes with a few key first steps. You have to have a clear mission, and a target audience to sell to.  Developing relationships with everyone is so important. And it's not just about building bonds with clients and vendors. Develop relationships with your CPA, your designers, and your printing labs.  Building an audience and a customer base is incredibly hard and can take much longer than you anticipate. Patience and persistence are key. Links Lu Ross Photography  Lu Ross on Instagram Lu Ross on Facebook Lu Ross on LinkedIn  Wildling Museum of Art & Nature  Nature First Give Back To Nature New York Institute of Photography Esterley Designs Connect with Chris Chris Struckhoff website Connect with Chris on LinkedIn Follow Chris on Twitter Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts

In this episode, Chris talks with Laurel Enright, owner of Natural Glow Aesthetics in Fullerton, CA.  As a teenager, Laurel observed first-hand the benefits, challenges, and freedoms that come with entrepreneurship as she watched her mother start a business. While climbing the ranks at Ulta as an aesthetician, Laurel learned what she could, earning licenses and using paychecks to stock up on supplies. After careful planning, Laurel followed in her mother's footsteps and started her own beauty business from the ground up. Within months of starting her business, the pandemic put Laurel to the ultimate test. She used the time to build up affiliate programs, expand her skill set, offer new services, and boost her online presence.  Chris and Laurel discuss making the best of business downfalls, sourcing free tools, and knowing your “why” as an entrepreneur.  “Be patient, trust the process, lean on the people that are supporting you if you have them. And just take it one day at a time.” ~ Laurel Enright Main takeaways  [09:24] Great employees leave jobs because of toxic management. Entrepreneurship is a great way to avoid toxic work environments, become your own boss, and cultivate a positive work space.   [27:25] Even when something like COVID strikes and you feel like you can't make progress on your business, continue networking, invest your time in free products, and work toward improving your SEO. When you do your research and invest in free opportunities, it will serve your business in the future, if not immediately.  [31:31] As a business owner, it's important to slow down and remind yourself why you started. What was your original mission? How can your business help others? Always self-reflect.  Links Laurel on LinkedIn Natural Glow Aesthetics Natural Glow on Instagram Natural Glow on Facebook Ulta Canva Epionce Fraicheur Ice Globes Pinterest Villa Del Sol Zoom Connect with Chris Chris Struckhoff website Connect with Chris on LinkedIn Follow Chris on Twitter Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts

In this episode, Chris talks with Joe and Shelley Montoya, co-owners of Here Come The Blooms, a Garden Grove flower shop.   Shelley always dreamed of owning a storefront. Once she discovered her love for flowers and eye for design, she put the pieces together and opened a flower shop. The idea began as a traveling flower truck, but Shelley and Joe realized that most flowers came from the 1-800 megastores while the mom and pop stores were few and far between. Wanting to push big business to the side, they opened a storefront. In 2019 Joe left his full-time job to join Shelley in the business.  Little did they know that just a few short months after leaping into a full-time partnership, COVID would strike and they'd need to do what every great business owner does at some point or another — pivot. While many floral shops closed their doors permanently, Shelley and Joe began livestreaming and donating flowers to first responders for every flower purchased. They formed deeper relationships with the community they served rather than letting a pandemic diminish their success. Chris, Shelley, and Joe discuss reaching customers as the underdog, going into business with your spouse, and the keys to surviving business ownership early on and for years to come. I don't think it matters where you're at in life. If you have a dream I think it's almost your responsibility to see that through. And be prepared for failure along the way but that will not be your end result. Your end result will definitely be success, I think, if you just keep at it day-to-day.” ~ Shelley Montoya Main takeaways  [11:26] When you're a small business, you have to connect with your customers in a meaningful way. That connection is the key to becoming the local go-to for whatever it is you sell or provide.  [24:40] Know your niche as a business owner. And understand what you're not strong in so you can hire people to fill those gaps.  [27:07] Balancing the stress of working with your spouse or partner as business partners may be your biggest business win.  [39:58] Forging relationships with vendors and wholesalers is invaluable as a small business owner. Your business will rely on those relationships. Links Here Come The Blooms Here Come The Blooms on Instagram Join The Late Bloomers Join The Late Bloomers Podcast Shelley on LinkedIn Joe on Linkedin BloomNation Etsy Vanguard BlackRock State Street Fidelity TD  Charles Schwab California's Starting A Business Checklist Connect with Chris Chris Struckhoff website Connect with Chris on LinkedIn Follow Chris on Twitter Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts

In this episode, Chris talks with Georgeana Ireland, owner and operator of Ethos Contemporary Art Gallery in Newport Beach.  When Georgeana first saw her art in the window of a gallery, she was exhilarated. Unfortunately, that gallery closed and she was left with two options: give up or throw her hat in the ring. Georgeana chose the latter and leaned on mentors and ingenuity to forge and solidify her space in the art world.  Goergeana's drive comes from a passion for her work and a desire to help other artists when no one else would. She built an incredibly supportive team around her and throughout the pandemic, when many businesses closed their doors permanently, Georgeana empowered her employees and her artists to grow. Chris and Georgeana discuss leaning on good advice, thriving during the impossible, and the one thing that's helped Georgeana navigate the highs and lows of business ownership. “My greatest assets are my mentors. And so I always go to my mentors. I only ask advice from people that are more successful than me. I will not listen to anyone. People can talk until they're blue in the face — if they're not more successful in whatever they're talking about, I don't hear a word that they say.” ~ Georgeana Ireland Main takeaways  [06:55] True entrepreneurs are pioneers. They go forward with no promise of a paycheck or a reward. They create their own drive.  [09:32] No matter who you are or what you do, you won't be successful without strong mentors and a strong team to back you up and help you navigate the highs and lows of entrepreneurship.  [12:19] The sign of a great entrepreneur is someone who can pivot quickly. COVID-19 is a great example of having your business model washed away and somehow managing to continue on.  Links Ethos Contemporary Art Gallery Georgeana on LinkedIn Amber Goldhammer Gen Art Gray Matter Museum of Art Ethos on Instagram Lido House Connect with Chris Chris Struckhoff website Connect with Chris on LinkedIn Follow Chris on Twitter Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts

In this episode, Chris talks with JoAnn Kurtz-Ahlers, Founder of Hidden Doorways, a travel agency connecting travel advisors with unique and unknown experiences for their clientele.  JoAnn learned the ropes of the travel industry early in her career, rising the ranks within Ritz Carlton as it grew into the iconic brand that it is today. While it's incredibly difficult to leave a comfortable position with a comfortable salary, JoAnn did just that.  Ritz Carlton was hesitant to lose her, so they gave her a 3-year consulting contract as long as she wasn't competitive. As she began searching for areas without the well-known brand, she discovered her love for the unknown. As JoAnn grew her business, she leaned on trustworthy mentors, weeded out the less-than-trustworthy colleagues, and focused on staying gracious. Chris and JoAnn discuss the mistakes we all learn as new business owners, why everyone needs a niche, and the benefits of staying friendly with competitors.  “If you have space, the things that belong with you will come along, otherwise you clog yourself up with things that you really don't want and don't help you in your business. You know it's hard to say no, but when that right thing comes along and you've waited for it, it's so gratifying.” ~ JoAnn Kurtz-Ahlers Main takeaways  [13:41] Growing within a fast-growing company teaches you how to wear many hats at once and develop an entrepreneurial backbone. You have to get to the next goal without the financial revenue to do so quickly.  [21:21] Learn to graciously say no. And view your competitors as friends. If you can refer someone to a friendly competitor, it's a win-win situation for everyone. [22:30] It can be tempting to accept every client - especially when you're just starting out and eager to pay the bills. However, it's important to always remember your positioning and your brand. Otherwise, you'll lose what makes you unique and your business won't stand out. [31:18] Wherever you are on your entrepreneurial journey, lean on the resources around you for support.  Links Hidden Doorways The Ritz-Carlton Oberoi Hotels Six Senses Virtuoso AT&T T-Mobile Delta Connect with Chris Chris Struckhoff website Connect with Chris on LinkedIn Follow Chris on Twitter Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts

In this episode, Chris talks with Trevor Arndt, owner of Aesthetic Climbing Gym, a rock climbing space dedicated to creating a positive climbing experience for families and athletes at all levels. With plans to become a physical therapist, a business class early in college changed Trevor's trajectory. Despite plenty of pushback, and after months of planning, Trevor dropped out of school to raise funding and begin the process of launching his rock climbing gym.  Although Trevor and his partners faced plenty of ups and downs in their first decade of business ownership, nothing could have prepared them for the impact of COVID. As 2020 and its unique challenges unfolded, Trevor sought professional help, leaned on lifelong mentors, and found support from the community he'd spent years serving.  Chris and Trevor discuss how to overcome massive hurdles, the secret sauce to success, and why guarding your mental health as a business owner and entrepreneurial leader is essential.  “There's research out there that says 70% of our self-talk is negative. And so if you're hyper critical of yourself, and then you have other people out there being critical of you, that's just negative energy in your body. And so guarding your mind is really important, having that be a garden surrounded by the best defense possible. It's something I have worked really hard on over my journey as a business owner. And I found that it was kind of an X factor.” ~ Trevor Arndt Main takeaways  [12:52] Your attitude has to be massively positive and optimistic, you have to have a consistent work habit, and you need a dream. [14:21] When you're in the thick of entrepreneurship, especially when you're just starting out, every moment is a lesson. You just have to keep pushing through adversities until you reach the other side.  [32:52] Your business flows through you. If your mental health is starting to falter, it will impact the business and everyone depending on you. Make mental health a priority.  [44:15] Every successful person has mentors in their corner helping them navigate the wins, the losses, and the moments where all feels lost. No matter your story, you need good people speaking into you if you're ever going to successfully ride the entrepreneurial wave.  Links Trevor on LinkedIn Aesthetic Climbing Gym Aesthetic Climbing Gym on Instagram Aesthetic Climbing Gym on Facebook USA Climbing Free Solo Connect with Chris Chris Struckhoff website Connect with Chris on LinkedIn Follow Chris on Twitter Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts

In this episode, Chris talks with Benjamen Janey, owner and operator of Spooler, a tech-driven apparel company that combines fashion and technology to help consumers take control of the clothes they wear. Entrepreneurship is in Benjamen's blood. When his mother saw students at her school face serious consequences for graffiti, she founded a non-profit to help young people express themselves artistically without repercussions.  Benjamen started his business as a grassroots creator, creating custom pieces by hand for the tourists, locals, and celebrities of Venice Beach.  After a successful test market in Venice, he continued to validate the need for on-demand clothing and fashion by integrating new technology and formed Spooler. In 2018, Benjamen landed a partnership with Sesame Street to develop an activewear product targeting the health & wellness market, and socially-conscious millennials who likely grew up watching the beloved show. Chris and Benjamen discuss why failure is required, learning to scale, and the future of technology in wellness, business, and beyond.  “These adversities that we're going to explore a little bit here, or challenges or hurdles or however you want to phrase them, they are part of the journey. In many ways, they are just as important as the successes, if not more important than the successes.” ~ @BenjamenJaney Main takeaways [12:09] Hiring team members can save you invaluable time and money as a business owner. Finding the right fit can be tricky, but outsourcing early is worth it.  [13:08] Technology is helping fashion transform into a direct-to-consumer industry where consumers have control over the materials used in the clothes they love.  [16:01] It's ok to fail immediately and frequently. Failure is what helps you learn and move your business forward. Don't get discouraged if you're in a tough spot.  Links Benjamen on Instagram Benjamen on Twitter Benjamen on LinkedIn Spooler GNC Sesame Street Activewear I Can't Accept Not Trying: Michael Jordan on the Pursuit of Excellence by Michael Jordan Adobe Creative Suite Connect with Chris Chris Struckhoff website Connect with Chris on LinkedIn Follow Chris on Twitter Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts

Judy founded the Brower Group back in 1994 and has been working on public relations and content marketing for companies in the commercial real estate and financial services industries while accruing over 50 different awards over that period. We talk about her transition out of the company and new projects she is already working on. Find complete shownotes on my blog... Chris Struckhoff's Orange County Business Success Check out my other show Retirement NOW   And feel free to shoot me an email at chris@chrisstruckhoff.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Dustin founded Horizon Education back in 2013. They are working to reinvent college prep and its assessment curriculum and offer teacher training for public high schools. Intelligence is not segmented geographically or socioeconomically, but the tools and resources that help build it have been, and Dustin set up to change that. After a Ted Talk and recent Forbes article, I would say there is a growing interest in his work.   Find complete shownotes on my blog... Chris Struckhoff's Orange County Business Success Check out my other show Retirement NOW   And feel free to shoot me an email at chris@chrisstruckhoff.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Jodi is the owner of HD Dynamics Software Solutions for the last five years after buying out her previous firm, Dynamic Methods, where she was for ten years.   Find complete shownotes on my blog... Chris Struckhoff's Orange County Business Success Check out my other show Retirement NOW And feel free to shoot me an email at chris@chrisstruckhoff.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Lisa spent 30 years with the Transportation Corridor Agencies, or as we all know it as the Toll Roads here in Orange County, even serving as acting CEO for eight months. She is a CSUF grad and has been the owner of Lisa Telles Communications for the last two years, consulting in the areas of marketing, public relations, and event management.   Find complete shownotes on my blog... Chris Struckhoff's Orange County Business Success Check out my other show Retirement NOW And feel free to shoot me an email at chris@chrisstruckhoff.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

When was the war of 1812? 1812. That and a few other fun factoids are what most of us remember from history class in high school. All of the life skills we wish we knew coming out of high school and college were and, in no small degree, still are missing from the curriculum. Kimberly has set out to teach those skills to the current workforce and provide holistic life planning as a new type of employee benefit for companies to offer.   Find complete shownotes on my blog... Chris Struckhoff's Orange County Business Success Check out my other show Retirement NOW   And feel free to shoot me an email at chris@chrisstruckhoff.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

When people say a good business person solves a problem or fills a need, it must be Christina they are thinking about. While taking time off from her almost 30-year career in healthcare, a pandemic hits, and she decides to start a business helping to import vital supplies and PPE. We discuss running Ocean of Care, starting a business during COVID, and what is next on the horizon for her.   Find complete shownotes on my blog... Chris Struckhoff's Orange County Business Success Check out my other show Retirement NOW And feel free to shoot me an email at chris@chrisstruckhoff.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

Richard spent more than four decades in the corporate engineering world after earning his doctorate in civil engineering. He now follows his passion for helping others and has been running Path2 for almost three years now. The old career quiz that was a suitable break in the middle of our school day ultimately was not helpful, and Richard has set out to change that. Find complete shownotes on my blog... Chris Struckhoff's Orange County Business Success Check out my other show Retirement NOW And feel free to shoot me an email at chris@chrisstruckhoff.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

The tale of a corporate attorney from Amsterdam to the owner of an art gallery here in Laguna was as interesting as it sounds. We talked about everything from being a new business and dealing with COVID to her many travels worldwide, sourcing the artwork for her gallery, including a three-month stay with an Aboriginal community in Australia. Find complete shownotes on my blog... Chris Struckhoff's Orange County Business Success Check out my other show Retirement NOW And feel free to shoot me an email at chris@chrisstruckhoff.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.  

Ilene is a fellow Irvine local, and the owner of Schneider the Writer. She has 35 years of experience in copy writing for public/media relations, advertising, and grant writing in the healthcare industry. She has earned a Clearing Award from Women in Communications, and a Lifetime Award from Who's Who. We talked about all of this and how she was working from home long before the rest of us on this episode. Find complete shownotes on my blog... Chris Struckhoff's Orange County Business Success Check out my other show Retirement NOW And feel free to shoot me an email at chris@chrisstruckhoff.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

The second I talked to Michael Berman, I knew I wanted him to be one of the first guests on OCBS. Michael is a fellow CSUF grad and owner of Michael Berman Coinage, Numismatic, and Bullion Art & Design. We talk about his journey that lead him to design work on different curriecies, some of his work he can actually talk about in more detail for the House of Mouse, and even a guitar pick made out of silver for Fender. Find complete shownotes on my blog... Chris Struckhoff's Orange County Business Success Check out my other show Retirement NOW And feel free to shoot me an email at chris@chrisstruckhoff.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.

I believe that if you are going to ask someone to do something for you, you must be willing to do it yourself. I asked Justin Castelli, a fellow podcaster and financial professional, to turn the tables/microphone on me. This was a great conversation to get to know me, my thoughts on business, and this podcast. It also helps set the tone for all of the incredible conversations, stories, and hopefully useful information that is going to come. Find complete shownotes on my blog... Chris Struckhoff's Orange County Business Success Check out my other show Retirement NOW And feel free to shoot me an email at chris@chrisstruckhoff.com with any feedback, questions, recommendations, or ideas for future topics of conversation.