Pro Series with Eric Dillman

In this episode of Off Topic, we're diving into what actually keeps people watching your Instagram Stories — and why posting up to 5 a day might be your new secret weapon for retention. I break down key stats from Social Insider and share tips to hook your audience before they swipe away.Then, I'm giving you my honest review of the George Strait concert — from the setlist to the stage energy and why the King of Country still has it. Finally, we wrap it all up with this week's Country Music Weekly — the latest songs, rising stars, and what's been on repeat.Hit play, and let's get into it.

This week on the Pro Series Podcast, I'm joined by Dudley Duncan — a true legend in the swimming world with over 50 years of coaching experience, a Hall of Famer, and the author of The Art of Swimming and The Game of Racing.We explore what it means to coach with purpose, lead with ownership, and build a lasting legacy in and out of the pool. From starting and owning a club to writing the books that are shaping the next generation of swim coaches, Dudley's insight is a masterclass in leadership and dedication.If you're passionate about mentorship, sports leadership, or simply becoming the best in your lane — this one's for you.

This week on Off Topic, we're diving into the wild future of influence—and trust me, it's getting weirder by the day.First up: AI influencers. Yup, virtual personalities are landing real brand deals and growing massive audiences—without even existing. Are we entering the post-human creator economy? And what does that mean for real creators like us?Then, we break down the death of the like button and why shares are the new clout currency. Instagram, TikTok, and X are changing the game—and creators who don't pivot might get left behind.PLUS: I shout out a new podcast you should absolutely be tuning into , and I give a quick update on what's going on in the world of Country Weekly—music, headlines, and all the southern drama you didn't know you needed.If you're a content creator, social media junkie, or just love watching internet culture evolve in real time—this one's for you.

In this episode, I sit down with John Russo, National Training Manager at SKS, to explore how SKS is transforming the appliance industry. From cutting-edge technology to unmatched flexibility, SKS is built for a new generation of forward-thinking cooks—Technicureans™—who value innovation as much as flavor. Discover how SKS is keeping people True to Food with smart, built-in appliances that elevate the cooking experience like never before.

In this episode, we're diving into everything trending — starting with the rise (and weirdness) of the Talking Baby Podcaster trend that's taking over social media. I also share my thoughts on Morgan Wallen's brand new album, the latest releases in country music, and yes... I'm officially back on TikTok

In this episode, we're joined by Zach Rapaport — founder and principal of Meerkat Companies, a powerhouse firm managing over $40 million in hospitality and wellness real estate projects across six states and countries. With over 200,000 square feet currently under development, Zach brings a rare perspective that blends hands-on construction experience with strategic development leadership.We dive into Zach's journey from working on job sites with general contractors to leading development for brands like Life House Hotels, Selina, and Joe & The Juice. Learn how he built Meerkat into a multi-faceted group of companies specializing in consultation and project management, and how he ensures design, budget, and timeline alignmentacross complex projects.If you're into real estate, hospitality innovation, or just love hearing how great ideas become fully operational spaces — this one's for you.

In this week's Off Topic, Eric kicks things off with a passionate take on a home renovation law he believes should be implemented ASAP—especially for homeowners working with unlicensed contractors. Then it's a country music moment as he counts down his Top 5 Mother's Day Country Songs that are guaranteed to hit you in the feels. He also breaks down the biggest ACM Award Show winners, shares his thoughts on standout moments, and wraps things up with a look at this week's Media Base Country Chart—who's rising, who's falling, and who's stuck in the middle.

In this episode, I sit down with Chris Morrow, President of Ultimate Granite in Gibsonia, PA. Chris walks us through the company's early days, the lessons learned along the way, and how a strong work ethic and community support helped shape the business into what it is today. Whether you're in the trades or just love a good entrepreneurial story, this one's packed with insight and inspiration.

This week on Off Topic, we're diving into why it's finally time to repost that old content—and how to give it a fresh spin that actually connects. I'm sharing the mindset shift around revisiting past work, plus tips for updating the caption with a behind-the-scenes story or a lesson learned.Then, we break down the psychology and algorithm science behind the viral rise of follow-along short-form content. Spoiler: it's not luck—it's human behavior.And of course, we wrap it all up with your Country Music Weekly check-in—new drops, chart moves, and who's got that summer anthem energy already heating up the playlists.

In this episode of Pro Series, Eric sits down with Jamey Schrier, founder of Practice Freedom U and a true veteran of the physical therapy industry with over 20 years of experience. Jamey has spoken at top conferences like the Private Practice Section, APTA Combined Sections Meeting, and Ascend Conference, and is connected with thousands of PT practice owners nationwide.We dive into the core challenges that hold practice owners back—and how to break through them using smarter systems, not just more hustle. Jamey shares insight from his live trainings, coaching programs, and the proven strategies that have helped countless practice owners achieve more freedom and profitability.Whether you're just starting or looking to grow sustainably, this is a must-listen episode filled with practical advice and inspiration.https://practicefreedomu.com/https://practicefreedomu.com/dcwithjamey/

In this episode of Off Topic, Eric breaks down four eye-opening stats that might just change how you think about investing time into your social media. He also dives into a hilarious rant about an old-school cleaning device that just doesn't make sense — seriously, how did anyone think it would work? And of course, we wrap things up with your favorite segment, Country Music Weekly, sharing the latest buzz from Nashville and beyond!

She's back! Certified designer and industry powerhouse Alena Capra returns to the Pro Series Podcast to catch us up on everything she's been up to since her last appearance in 2023. In this episode, we dive into what's new in the design world—from KBIS and the NKBA, to what it means to be a certified designer in today's ever-evolving landscape.Alena also gives us an exclusive look at Coverings 2025, happening next week, where she serves as the official spokesperson. Plus, we talk about her latest adventure as the host of SoFlo Home Project, a Florida-based TV show showcasing stunning home transformations and design inspiration.Whether you're a designer, industry pro, or just love home design, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration straight from one of the best in the biz.

This week, I'm calling out a growing problem—labor-driven companies using AI-generated images in their marketing. When you're a brand built on real craftsmanship and skilled labor, using fake visuals is more than misleading—it's false advertising. Let's talk about the damage this does to trust, authenticity, and the people actually doing the work behind the scenes.Plus, I wrap things up with this week's Country Music Weekly—you know I had to.

Is success really about hard work—or is luck playing a bigger role than we think? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Michael Orkin, renowned statistician, data scientist, and author of The Story of Chance: What's Luck Got to Do with It?, to break down the fascinating world of probability and randomness.We dive into how chance influences everything from sports and gambling to health, business, and everyday decisions—and why understanding it can lead to smarter, more informed choices. With years of experience in research, teaching, and consulting, Dr. Orkin brings a fresh, eye-opening perspective to concepts most of us take for granted.If you've ever wondered why some people seem to "get lucky" or how randomness shapes our reality, this episode will shift the way you think about success, risk, and decision-making.

This week's Off Topic is a double dose of awesome—Steve Gregory joins me fresh off his appearance on Pro Series for a laid-back convo all about our love for Pittsburgh, country music, and the concert scenes we can't get enough of.

In this episode, we welcome back Steve Gregory, a seasoned real estate agent and investor in the Pittsburgh area, who first joined us in August 2023. We catch up on what's changed in the real estate market, the evolving landscape of home investing, and how being on TV has influenced both of our careers. From market shifts to media impact, this episode is packed with real talk, smart insights, and a few laughs along the way. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, an aspiring investor, or a fellow entrepreneur, there's something here for you.

In this episode of Off Topic, Eric kicks things off with a hilarious rant about his ongoing tech struggle—why is connecting a microphone to a new camera so complicated?! (Seriously, someone send help.)But then, it's time for some real talk: Eric dives into a mindset shift every creative and business owner needs to hear—social media is NOT the goal. It's just a marketing tool to get you to the actual goal: connection, conversion, and impact.And of course, we wrap up with Country Music Weekly, featuring Eric's thoughts on the latest tracks and what's hot in the country scene this week.Tune in for laughs, realness, and a little country soul—because we always keep it Off Topic.

In this episode of the Pro Series Podcast, Eric sits down with marketing mastermind John Dwyer—the creative force behind The Institute of Wow. Known for his out-of-the-box thinking and game-changing customer attraction strategies, JD has helped businesses skyrocket their success through Direct Response Marketing.But that's not all—John is also the genius who pulled off one of the biggest marketing coups ever: convincing Jerry Seinfeld to promote a bank in Australia! He shares the fascinating behind-the-scenes story of how he landed the deal, what it was like working with Seinfeld for three years, and the powerful marketing lessons that came from it.If you want to transform your business with creative marketing strategies, this episode is a must-listen! Tune in now for expert insights, wild stories, and a masterclass in thinking WAY outside the box.4o

In this episode of Off Topic, Eric breaks down how interior designers can take one project and turn it into a month's worth of content—without feeling overwhelmed. Then, he dives into the latest buzz in the industry: a new AI tool that's trying to replace interior designers (spoiler: it's not as good as you think). Finally, we wrap up with Country Music Weekly, where Eric gives his take on the newly announced ACM Award nominations and who he thinks will take home the big wins.Tune in for design insights, social media strategies, and a little country music talk—because we keep it Off Topic, as always!

In Episode 184 of The Pro Series Podcast, we sit down with Mike Andes, founder of Augusta Lawn Care, a home service franchise that has scaled to over 150 locations across the U.S., Canada, and Australia. Mike shares his journey from starting a small lawn care business to building a thriving franchise empire. We dive into his innovative Pay for Performance (P4P) model, strategies for scaling a business to $1M+, turning around failing businesses, and the power of social media for brand growth.Whether you're an entrepreneur, small business owner, or just looking for expert insights on building sustainable success, this episode is packed with value! Tune in now! #ProSeriesPodcast #MikeAndes #SmallBusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship

In Episode 103 of Off Topic, Eric breaks down five essential Instagram tips to help boost your content and grow your engagement. He also shares three key features you need to have turned on to maximize your reach and effectiveness on the platform. Whether you're a creator, business owner, or just looking to level up your social media game, these insights will help you stand out! And of course, Eric wraps up the episode with Country Music Weekly, highlighting the latest in the country music scene. Tune in and take your Instagram strategy to the next level!

In Episode 183 of the Pro Series Podcast, Eric sits down with Jeremy Jones, the founder of Discover the Burgh, to dive into his journey in the digital world. From launching one of Pittsburgh's top online travel and lifestyle brands to mastering the art of blogging and content creation, Jeremy shares valuable insights on building an audience, staying authentic, and turning passion into a thriving platform. Whether you're a content creator, entrepreneur, or Pittsburgh enthusiast, this episode is packed with inspiration and expert advice you won't want to miss!

In Episode 102 of Off Topic, Eric and Harrison dive into the idea of America as the "land of opportunity." They explore what makes the U.S. a unique place for business growth, innovation, and entrepreneurship—while also discussing how outsiders perceive these opportunities. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or just curious about the global perspective on American business, this episode offers fresh insights into what makes the U.S. both an exciting and challenging landscape for success. Tune in for a deep, thought-provoking conversation!

In Episode 182 of the Pro Series Podcast, I sit down with Jared, a true Creative Problem Solver who knows what it takes to turn challenges into opportunities. We dive into his journey—how he built his career, tackled obstacles, and developed a mindset focused on success. From real-life strategies for goal-setting to the importance of taking action, this episode is packed with insights for entrepreneurs, creatives, and anyone looking to level up. Don't miss this inspiring conversation!

In this episode of Off Topic, Eric Dillman breaks down a mind-blowing fact—just how many miles you scroll on your phone each year. Then, he dives into an Instagram keyword feature that most users are completely missing out on but can seriously boost engagement. And as always, the episode wraps up with Country Music Weekly, highlighting the latest hits and must-listen tracks. Tune in for insights, hacks, and some country vibes!

Great ideas deserve attention, but without clear and compelling communication, they often go unnoticed. In Episode 181 of the Pro Series Podcast, Dr. Michael Gerharz joins us to discuss the art of irresistible clarity—how leaders can craft messages that capture attention, inspire action, and make a lasting impact. With a background in science and a passion for effective communication, Dr. Gerharz has helped leaders worldwide transform their ideas into powerful narratives. Tune in to learn how to communicate with confidence and ensure your ideas get the recognition they deserve!

It's Episode 100 of Off Topic! Join me as I recap my trip to KBIS 2025—the biggest event in kitchen and bath design. I'll break down the standout trends, the innovations I loved, and a few design choices that had me seriously questioning everything (looking at you, black toilets and translucent bathtubs). Plus, we wrap it up with Country Music Weekly, because you know I couldn't skip that. Hit play and let's get into it! 

In this episode of the Pro Series Podcast, we're diving into two exciting projects shaping the future of Pittsburgh's North Side! I sit down with Eddie Taimuty to discuss the vision behind Solaio Bellezza Market House and the highly anticipated Villago Luxury Shops & Hotel—two developments set to redefine luxury and community in the city.Get an exclusive look at what these projects mean for Pittsburgh, the inspiration behind them, and what's next for the region's evolving landscape. You won't want to miss this inside scoop!Tune in now and stay locked in for more!

In this episode of Off Topic, Eric dives into how ChatGPT can revolutionize content creation, from brainstorming ideas to refining captions and scripts. He also explores the power of pairing ChatGPT with Canva to streamline design and branding like a pro. Whether you're a digital creator or just looking to step up your content game, this episode is packed with tips and tricks to make the process easier and more efficient. And of course, we wrap things up with Country Music Weekly—highlighting the latest hits and rising stars in the country scene!

In Episode 179 of Pro Series Podcast, we sit down with Ross McDaniel, Founder of Fencepost, a digital marketing agency that helps home service businesses thrive. Ross shares his Local Growth Formula, the proven strategy behind 25K+ new leads and 3K+ 5-star reviews for his clients.We dive into the power of paid search, online reviews, and local SEO—plus how these tactics can transform any business. If you're looking to scale your visibility and revenue, this episode is a must-listen!

In this episode of Off Tppic, Eric dives into the absolute ratchetness of Trading Spaces—the home makeover show that turned dream renovations into DIY nightmares. From wild design choices to questionable craftsmanship, he breaks down the chaos that made the show unforgettable.Then, he shifts gears to social media strategy, sharing the latest Instagram growth hack: comment marketing. Find out how dropping the right comments in the right places can seriously boost your engagement rate.Finally, we wrap things up with Country Music Weekly, highlighting the hottest tracks, biggest news, and must-listen bangers in country music right now.Tune in for the madness, the marketing tips, and a little bit of twang!4o

In this episode of ProSeries, we sit down with Robert Murray, Co-founder and CEO of Intrigue Media, a powerhouse digital marketing company that helps businesses break free from stagnation and reignite their growth.With nearly 20 years of entrepreneurial experience, Robert shares how he and his co-founder turned $400 in cash into a multi-million dollar company, scaling Intrigue to 30+ employees and $5M+ in annual revenue. As a Google Premier Partner and Meta Certified agency, Intrigue has helped over 1,000 businesses—especially in the home improvement industry—boost their visibility and attract higher-quality leads.In this episode, Robert dives into:✅ The biggest marketing mistakes holding businesses back✅ How to create a marketing strategy that actually drives revenue✅ The importance of people, culture, and leadership in scaling a company✅ The key growth lessons from running one of Canada's fastest-growing businessesWhether you're a business owner looking for real growth strategies or an entrepreneur inspired by startup success stories, this episode is packed with valuable insights you won't want to miss!

In this jam-packed episode of Off Topic, Eric dives into the wild world of designing a house for someone you hate—think staircases that are more of a workout than a convenience and toilets that require a mini hike. But that's not all! He also breaks down the latest Grammy winners and what they mean for the music scene, explores how to master Canva marketing to level up your brand, and wraps it up with a deep dive into the latest in country music in this week's edition of Country Music Weekly. It's a hilarious, chaotic, and insightful episode you don't want to miss!

In Episode 177 of the Pro Series Podcast, we sit down with powerhouse songwriter Jordan [Last Name], whose pen has crafted hits for Cody Johnson, Kane Brown, Luke Combs, Jordan Davis, and more. With two songs currently climbing the Top 20 at Country radio, Jordan shares his journey into songwriting, the creative process behind crafting hits, and the stories behind some of his biggest songs. Plus, we dive into his personal connection to Pittsburgh and how it has influenced his career. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about the art of storytelling through music!

In this episode of Off Topic, Eric dives into the world of McMansions—those oversized, often questionably designed homes that spark endless debate. He then shifts gears to talk about Groundhog Day, sharing thoughts on the quirky tradition and whether Punxsutawney Phil really knows what he's doing. As always, the episode wraps up with Country Music Weekly, covering the latest releases and updates on the Mediabase chart. Tune in for another fun and unpredictable episode!

In this special in-person episode of the Pro Series Podcast, I sit down with Brian Hess in what might be the most official podcast studio I've ever been in. Brian is the definition of commitment, integrity, and relentlessness—qualities that have helped him build an 8-figure company and establish relationships designed to last for decades. We dive into his journey, the mindset needed to thrive in a competitive industry, and the lessons he's learned along the way. Don't miss this powerhouse conversation!

January has finally come to an end, and Eric couldn't be happier to see it go! In this episode, he dives into why this month felt like it overstayed its welcome. He also shares the wild story of GameStop buying iPhones with TikTok installed and what that's all about. As always, the episode wraps up with Country Music Weekly, covering the latest releases and chart updates. Tune in for laughs, stories, and all things Off Topic!

In Episode 175 of the Pro Series Podcast, we sit down with Harrison Szep, a British native who's taken Pittsburgh by storm. From his humble beginnings in England to going viral on social media for sharing his journey, Harrison's story is as inspiring as it is captivating. We also dive into his passion project: a Soccer Scholarship company dedicated to helping athletes secure scholarships and opportunities in the U.S. Tune in to hear how Harrison is making a difference on and off the field while building a community around his incredible journey.

In this week's episode of Off Topic, Eric dives into the buzz surrounding the potential TikTok ban and what it could mean for creators and users. He also breaks down Instagram's latest changes and how they might impact your feed. Plus, Eric shares his thoughts on the rise of battery-powered home appliances and why they're making waves in the market. As always, the episode wraps up with Country Music Weekly, featuring the latest chart-toppers and releases. Don't miss this jam-packed episode full of insights and hot topics!

In episode 174 of the Pro Series Podcast, we talk with Weston Zimmerman, Co-Founder and CEO of SynkedUP, the award-winning software revolutionizing landscaping business management. Weston shares insights from his 15+ years in the industry, including how SynkedUP helps contractors streamline operations, know their numbers, and achieve predictable profits.From his award-winning water feature creations to working with personalities like Shaquille O'Neal and Logan Paul, Weston's journey is packed with valuable lessons for contractors and entrepreneurs alike. Don't miss this conversation on transforming your business and staying ahead in today's market.

In episode 93 of Off Topic, Eric reconnects with Shay Holland, who previously appeared on the Pro Series Podcast a few years back. Shay, who lives just outside the areas affected by the California fires, shares a firsthand account of the devastation and the resilience of those impacted.Tune in for an eye-opening conversation about the realities of living near natural disasters and how communities come together in times of crisis.

In this episode of the Pro Series Podcast, we sit down with the multi-talented Christian Ray Flores – entrepreneur, international recording artist, philanthropist, and high-performance coach. Christian shares his incredible journey from being a child refugee in Chile to becoming a pop star in Eastern Europe, a pastor for 25 years, and a successful entrepreneur in the U.S. As the co-founder of Third Drive Media and Ascend Mission Fund, Christian has created award-winning media, raised millions for startups, and supported children in Mozambique and Ukraine. He also empowers leaders through his coaching program, Xponential, and shares his wisdom as the host of the Headspace by Christian Ray Flores podcast. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on leadership, purpose, and making a lasting impact. 

In the first episode of 2025, Eric reflects on the bittersweet tradition of taking down Christmas decorations, comparing it to the emotional final scene of Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. He dives into the universally dreaded months of January and February, especially up north, where the cold and gray seem endless. As always, he wraps things up with Country Music Weekly, covering the latest chart-toppers and new releases to keep you warm through the winter blues. Tune in for a fresh start to the new year!

In this episode of the Pro Series Podcast, Eric sits down with Russell Harvey, also known as "The Resilience Coach." With over 20 years of experience in leadership and organizational development, Russell shares his expertise in building resilience in the face of uncertainty and ambiguity. From his engaging coaching style to his impactful workshops with schools and organizations, Russell has already influenced over 43,000 individuals on his mission to positively affect 100,000 lives by 2025. Tune in to hear actionable insights on leadership, rediscovering your mojo, and navigating today's volatile and uncertain world with confidence and creativity.

In the final episode of the year, Eric dives into the awkward limbo between Christmas and New Year's—the week where time stands still, and you're fueled by leftover cookies and cheese trays. He shares tips on setting actionable social media goals for 2025 to start the year strong. As always, the episode wraps up with Country Music Weekly, highlighting the latest hits and chart updates. Join Eric for a fun, reflective send-off to 2024!

In this in-person episode recorded at Ashley Wozniak Designs' studio in Wexford, PA, I sit down with the incredible Ashley Wozniak. From her early days as a teacher to flipping homes and now running her thriving design business, Ashley shares the pivotal moments that shaped her career and creative vision. We dive into her passion for design, the challenges of transitioning careers, and her approach to creating stunning spaces. To wrap up, we embrace the holiday spirit with a lively chat about all things Christmas. Tune in for inspiration, insights, and festive fun!

In this festive episode of Off Topic, Eric gets real about the inevitable holiday surprise everyone will be getting this year—Nala's fur, thanks to her shedding spree! He also dives into five must-try apps within Canva that will take your creativity and content game to the next level. As always, the episode wraps up with Country Music Weekly, featuring the latest hits and chart updates. Don't miss this fun and informative holiday-themed chat!

In episode 170 of the Pro Series Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Preston Mullens, a Pittsburgh-based chiropractor who has taken the social media world by storm. Known for his engaging and educational content, Dr. Mullens shares insights into the chiropractic profession, its growing popularity online, and how he's leveraged platforms to build a massive following. Tune in as we dive into the power of social media in modern healthcare, the myths surrounding chiropractic care, and tips for creating viral content in a competitive digital space.

This week on Off Topic, Eric shares his thoughts on a viral design photo making rounds on social media that left him questioning its functionality. He also opens up about the struggles of being a designer working on personal projects—and why designers often make the hardest clients for themselves. Plus, Eric rants about a Christmas song that's mysteriously absent from streaming platforms, and, as always, wraps up with Country Music Weekly, highlighting the latest releases and Mediabase chart updates. 4o

Join us for a special in-person episode of Pro Series, recorded live from The Kitchen by Vangura, a stunning event space that feels like a Vegas resort. Our guest, Krystal Vangura, takes us on a journey through the history of countertops and materials, sharing insights into the evolution of design and the latest trends. We also delve into the fascinating backstory of Vangura Surface Products and the passion that drives their success.

In this episode of Off Topic, Eric shares his unfiltered thoughts on the annual flood of "next year's design trends" articles. Spoiler: he's not a fan. Tune in to hear why chasing trends might just be the worst move for your space. Eric also dives into a tragic accident in the Harrisburg area that unlocked a whole new fear he didn't know he had. As always, the episode wraps up with Country Music Weekly, featuring the latest releases and chart updates.