Proprietors of Pittsburgh Podcast

If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH JEFF KRAKOFF AT:Website: https://krakoffcomm.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/krakoff_communicationsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/krakoffcommLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/krakoff-communications

If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH TONI SHELASKE AT:Website: https://healthypetproducts.netInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthypetproductsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/HealthyPetProductsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@healthypetproducts222

The theme for this season is “in studio” as I'm back in the studio recording with all of my guests. Check out the incredible lineup that I have for you in Season 12:Toni Shelaske, owner of Healthy Pet ProductsJeff Krakoff, owner of Krakoff CommunicationsSteve Dawson, owner of Fat ButcherJen Worley, owner of Jen Barker Worley PhotographySidney and Terri Sokoloff, owner and founder of Specialty GroupPatrick Schober, owner of Poetica MarketingLisa Grazan, owner of Brilliant BiographiesIf you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247

Getting to tour Destin LeCornu's recording studio was an incredible opportunity. In this episode, he invites us behind the scenes to see everything that goes into making a state-of-the-art facility. The place has vintage vibes, and the multi-room setup gives you the sense that you walked onto a movie set.Destin is an audio engineer, producer, teacher, and accomplished musician. He plays several different instruments, and he is a vocalist too. In our conversation, he describes how his father, a Nashville singer-songwriter, influenced him from a young age. Destin has managed to create a full-time career in the music industry, which is no small feat in a city the size of Pittsburgh.If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH DESTIN LECORNU AT:Website: https://www.sunsetplacestudio.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/destinlecornuFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100075963441408

If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH CLAIRE LANDUYT AT:Website: https://www.chezlapingoods.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chezlapingoodsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChezLapinGoods

If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247

In this episode, I took a tour of Iron City Boulders in the Lawrenceville neighborhood. Dean Privett, a co-owner of the indoor bouldering gym, showed me around while we talked about his impressive facility and the growing climbing industry. His journey to entrepreneurship was 10 years in the making, and he shared his amazing story with me during our time together. You can tell from listening to Dean just how much he loves climbing and the cohesive community he and his team are building in Pittsburgh and in their Florida location. In fact, Dean and his European business partners are planning an eventual expansion across the U.S. in the years to come. Enjoy this sneak peek into the fascinating world of indoor climbing.If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH DEAN PRIVETT AT:Website: https://ironcityboulders.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ironcitybouldersFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ironcityboulders

Dr. Nikhil Asher realized his dream of creating an integrated health and wellness center when he opened Aspirational Health in 2022. The brand new facility, which was the site of a former fast food restaurant, features a spacious on-site yoga and fitness studio. In addition to traditional medical services, patients also have access to a complete wellness program, including nutrition management, fitness instruction, and physical therapy.Aspirational Health is an independent primary care medical practice that also functions as an urgent care facility. In our conversation, Dr. Asher describes how his background in critical care medicine and internal medicine, as well as his administrative position at a regional healthcare system, gave him the leadership experience he needed to operate his own private practice. His desire to treat people from a holistic perspective, and to help fill in the missing gaps in their care, has driven him to create a truly unique patient experience in our region.If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH DR. NIKHIL ASHER AT:Website: https://aspirationalhealthandwellness.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/aspirationalhealthandwellnessFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AspirationalhealthandwellnessLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aspirational-health

In this episode, I take a look at a beautiful local venue from a unique vantage point. My guest, Jill Garcia, owner of The Hutton Group, gives me a tour of the Kimpton Hotel Monaco in downtown Pittsburgh. This is just one example of the many event spaces that she utilizes in and around the city for her business meeting and event planning company. Jill also travels throughout the United States and abroad, as she creates and executes corporate events that are customized for her many business clients.In our conversation, Jill talks about what it was like to purchase The Hutton Group just before the pandemic. She describes what is required to be successful in this highly competitive space. Although the hospitality and event planning industries are often viewed as glamorous and exciting, this episode gives us a behind-the-scenes look into the long hours and intense demands that often come along with the territory. Jill also shares a fun story of getting to meet one of her favorite celebrities early in her career.If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH JILL GARCIA AT:Website: https://thehuttongroup.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehuttongroupFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehuttongroupLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillgarciainspired

In this exciting “behind-the-scenes” episode, Danielle Bombash, co-owner of Bombash and Earley, gives us a tour of her store and production space. She and her husband, Tim, run the business out of a charming storefront that resembles a cottage-style home in McMurray, PA. Their impressive and extensive lineup of botanical skin care products is made entirely by hand in small batches from this location.After viewing their retail displays in the front of the store, I got to see their main production room in the back of the house, which is typically off-limits to customers. Danielle described how their products are made from raw ingredients, and she showed me some of the equipment that's used in the creation process. We had a terrific discussion about the origin of the business, how she and Tim balance their unique approaches to entrepreneurship, and why family is a central part of what they are building.If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH DANIELLE BOMBASH AT:Website: https://bombashearley.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bombashbotanicalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bombashandearley

Season 11 consists of episodes that are all recorded “on location” at unique venues. I decided to get out of the studio and into the city in order to bring you behind the scenes of some amazing local businesses. If you've ever wanted to know more about the nitty-gritty of how a business operates, then this is the season for you. Each episode includes a tour of the location, and we get access to parts of the business that most people never get to see. Plus, we have the added benefit of sitting down with the entrepreneurs to discuss the origin stories behind their business concepts.Thanks for listening and for your support. If you're enjoying the podcast, tell a friend. Keep spreading the word, and keep supporting our local businesses. As always, feel free to reach out to me using my contact info below. Take care, and talk to you soon.YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247

If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247

If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH JIM SHORKEY AT:Website: https://resultsfromthinking.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jimshorkeyjrFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ResultsfromThinkingLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/results-from-thinking-llc

I'm pleased to welcome three incredible guests back to the show – Lauren Marts, owner of Baked True North, Duztin Watson, owner of The RiP Group, and RJ Huebert, owner of HBT Digital Consulting. In this in-depth episode, we cover a wide variety of topics, including the critical role that small businesses play in the community and how to attract and retain talented people on your team. Plus, each of our guests gives us an update on the latest developments in their businesses and current trends in their industries.If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So, please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!Also, check out my guests' original episodes from when they first appeared on the podcast to share their origin stories.Lauren Marts – Season 5, Episode 5: https://proprietorsofpittsburgh.com/episodes/collaboration-over-competition-lauren-marts-owner-of-baked-true-northDuztin Watson – Season 5, Episode 35: https://proprietorsofpittsburgh.com/episodes/work-on-yourself-every-day-of-your-life-duztin-watson-owner-of-the-rip-groupRJ Huebert – Season 5, Episode 34: https://proprietorsofpittsburgh.com/episodes/be-open-and-share-your-knowledge-rj-huebert-owner-of-hbt-digital-consultingYOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH LAUREN MARTS AT:Website: https://bakedtruenorth.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bakedtruenorthFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bakedtruenorthYOU CAN REACH DUZTIN WATSON AT:Website: https://ripusa.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/theripgroupFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/RiPUSAIncLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ripusainc.YOU CAN REACH RJ HUEBERT AT:Website: https://hbtdigital.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hbtdigitalconsultingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/hbtdigitalconsultingLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hbtdigitalconsulting

In this all-star lineup of Pittsburgh entrepreneurs, Dr. Natalie Gentile, TJ Fairchild, and George Cook are all back on the show. We cover a wide variety of topics including the importance of investing in our local communities, when to build team, how to navigate a hybrid work environment, dealing with growth challenges, and much more. It was such a pleasure to sit down and chat with these dynamic small business owners. I was blown away by how committed they are to supporting our local communities. I know you will enjoy this enlightening discussion.If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So, please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!Also, check out my guests' original episodes from when they first appeared on the podcast to share their origin stories.Dr. Natalie Gentile – Season 7, Episode 4: https://proprietorsofpittsburgh.com/episodes/do-what-is-authentic-to-you-natalie-gentile-md-co-founder-of-direct-care-physicians-of-pittsburghTJ Fairchild – Season 3, Episode 3: https://proprietorsofpittsburgh.com/episodes/put-people-first-tj-fairchild-owner-of-commonplace-coffeeGeorge Cook – Season 5, Episode 22: https://proprietorsofpittsburgh.com/episodes/entrepreneurship-is-a-long-term-commitment-george-cook-co-founder-of-honeycomb-creditYOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH DR. NATALIE GENTILE AT:Website: https://www.directcarepgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliegentilemdInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/directcarepghFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DirectCarePghLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-gentile-mdYOU CAN REACH TJ FAIRCHILD AT:Website: https://commonplacecoffee.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/commonplacecoffeeFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/commonplacecoffeeLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/commonplace-coffeeYOU CAN REACH GEORGE COOK AT:Website: https://www.honeycombcredit.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/honeycombcreditFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/honeycombcreditLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/honeycomb-credit

If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH BEN KANDER AT:Website: https://www.wellybottle.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wellybottleFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/wellybottle

If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH CHRISTIAN KAHLE AND MATT BRUDNOK AT:Website: https://www.luckysignspirits.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/luckysignspiritsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/luckysignspirits

Hello Pittsburgh. It's your host, Darin Vilano, and I'm super excited to bring you the next season of the podcast. Season 10 is truly special. I will be bringing you some very unique episodes including a “live audience” recording, two group panels with prior guests, fascinating discussions with leading Pittsburgh entrepreneurs, and a conversation with my mom, Donna Vilano.Thanks for listening and for your support. If you're enjoying the podcast, tell a friend. Keep spreading the word, and keep supporting our local businesses. As always, feel free to reach out to me using my contact info below. Take care, and talk to you soon.YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247

Samantha Story-Camp's purchase of a homemade soap recipe book was supposed to be a creative way for her to provide gifts to fellow theatre actors after the final night of performances. One evening, she found herself at a local small business association workshop on how to start a business. Her and a friend were interested in creating a singing telegram company with a unique spin. Their idea never got off the ground, but what she learned planted the seed for another entrepreneurial venture. After receiving initial feedback from her friends and online community, Samantha decided to launch Pip & Lola's.Samantha eventually moved back to Pittsburgh, the city where she received her theatre degree from Point Park University. She and her husband opened a storefront, and Pip & Lola's began to grow. The company, which is named after two of her children, is a thriving family business with two locations. They also have a generous donation program in which they provide bars of soap to regional domestic violence shelters and other local charities. In this episode, Samantha talks about what she's learned from over a decade in business and how her theatre background helps her to relate and communicate with her many loyal customers.If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH SAMANTHA STORY-CAMP AT:Website: https://www.pipandlola.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/pipandlolaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/pipandlolaTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pipandlolas

Brandon Gilbert decided to put his business and mechanical engineering background to work in his own company when he started the Pittsburgh Mobile Tire Shop. After numerous subpar experiences at traditional repair stores, he decided that there had to be a better way to provide this important service. Low startup costs and lack of competition in the region enticed Brandon to launch a mobile operation where he could bring the tire shop directly to his customers. In this relaxing and low-pressure environment, people are free to ask questions and develop trust and rapport with him and his staff.Although Brandon became disenfranchised from years of corporate politics, he still needed to overcome the fear of starting his own business. Easing into it by working on it part time helped him to build the confidence to step out on his own. Today, he is leading a thriving operation in an economy that is looking for convenience more than ever before. He recently opened a brick-and-mortar location to expand his service offerings and to compliment his mobile business. When you listen to our conversation you can tell just how seriously Brandon takes customer service and doing a quality job.If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH BRANDON GILBERT AT:Website: https://pghmobiletires.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/pghmobiletiresFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/pghmobiletiresLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-gilbert-88bb191a5

At the beginning of 2020, Taylor Fowler was at a crossroads in her career. She had a full-time job, but she also had a few clients in her copywriting and public relations business. Unsatisfied with the feeling of burnout that this was causing, she made a decision to go all in as an entrepreneur. Although progress took time, she started to gain momentum with attracting clients and doing the work that she loved. She also started to build confidence in the area of public relations, which wasn't initially a focal point for her services. Believing in herself and putting in the daily effort proved to make all the difference in her success.Taylor's love for writing began at a young age, and she has accumulated a library of personal journals over the course of her life. Always one to gravitate to creative writing classes and journalism, Taylor has developed a talent for non-fiction storytelling. Today, she works with artists, musicians, entrepreneurs, and unique brands to help them craft their best stories. She has a knack for bringing out the raw, human, and emotional side of her subjects in a way that is refreshing and insightful. Taylor's freelance writing can also be found in numerous online publications.If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH TAYLOR FOWLER AT:Website: https://www.taylorfowler.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylorfowlerprInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylorifowlerFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/taylorfowlerprLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/t-fowler

Jason DeRose was working as a strength and conditioning coach for a local high school in 2005 when it became the focus of a nationally televised reality show on ESPN. The football team, which was once the pride of its Pittsburgh-area community, was on a perennial losing streak. This all turned around once Dick Butkus and other NFL and top collegiate coaching and training talent entered the picture to lead the team for one season. Jason soaked up this opportunity to learn all that he could, and a trip to San Diego for additional training inspired him to launch Faster Fitness, an athletic performance center with two Pittsburgh regional locations.In 2015, Jason was accused of physically assaulting another employee at the high school where he was employed. He maintained his innocence and took his case all the way to trial where he was acquitted of any wrongdoing. Although he was reinstated in the school district, this unfortunate experience caused him to shift his focus to his rapidly growing gym business. A self-proclaimed supplement fanatic, Jason was always on the lookout for new products to offer his personal training clients. It was by chance that he was introduced to someone in the supplement industry, and the seed was planted for what would become Gymsupps in 2017.If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH JASON DEROSE AT:Website: https://gymsupps.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/team_gymsuppsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/teamgymsuppsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gymsupps-org

In 2019, Carolyn Keller decided that it was time to put her non-profit operational and curatorial background to work in her own firm. She launched Curio412 as consultancy designed for organizations that want to make a lasting impact with their philanthropic missions and giving strategies and programs. As a proud Pittsburgh native, Carolyn chose to put the 412 in her business name as a reminder of the important work that needs to be done in our regional communities and neighborhoods.From the outset, Carolyn understood that she was uniquely positioned and qualified to serve as a bridge between non-profits and for-profit enterprises. Her work experience, skills, and deep knowledge of both sectors has allowed her to effectively address the needs of each group. As part of a larger team or as an independent contractor, she has worked on diverse projects and programs to help organizations of all types to make a difference in the areas that matter to them. In our conversation, Carolyn talks about the importance of alignment between business mission and philanthropic goals and why it's necessary to develop a giving strategy that's authentic and organic to the organization.If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH CAROLYN KELLER AT:Website: https://www.curio412.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/curio412LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/curio412

If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH JORDAN SCHULZ AT:Website: https://www.lifesidestudios.comWebsite: https://www.jordanschulzonline.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeside_studiosFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/lifesidestudioLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordansschulz

If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH ELISABETH LEACH AT:Website: https://www.jointwc.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_womens_collective_pghLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/twc-pittsburgh

Emily Bezak's love for writing began at a young age with journaling and storytelling. She created and maintained a freelance writing business, while she developed her corporate career as a marketer and communications professional. In 2020, Emily wrote a blog post announcing that she would soon leave her job to work full time in her own business. Early that same year, she launched Emily Bezak Writes to offer a suite of social media, copywriting, content creation, and marketing services to both established and startup organizations and businesses.In this episode, Emily talks about the many gigs, jobs, and corporate positions that she's held over the years and the role they have played in shaping her marketing philosophy and writing style. We also discuss the impact that working at Sephora had in highlighting her natural gifts in the areas of customer service and communications. Today, Emily is realizing her dream of teaching the next generation of business professionals as an adjunct professor at the University of Pittsburgh.If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH EMILY BEZAK AT:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilyjbezakInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/emily.bezakTwitter: https://twitter.com/EmilyBezak

After a successful 30-year career at prominent local company, Jan Receski was ready for a new challenge, not an early retirement. As she was contemplating her next move, inspiration struck following a poor golf club fitting experience. Selecting and trying out new equipment should be a fun and exciting time for any golfer, yet Jan left feeling underserved, misunderstood, and slightly offended. She quickly realized that the local market was lacking in golf establishments that catered to the needs of an increasing base of female players and enthusiasts.At the height of the pandemic in early 2021, Jan opened OnPar Now, an inclusive and welcoming indoor golf facility that is especially sensitive to the growing numbers of women players. In this episode, Jan talks about how she cashed out her 401(k) and literally put it all on the line to make her dream a reality. She discusses how she navigated a new world of entrepreneurship by fully immersing herself in every aspect of the development of her business. With each meeting and decision made, she grew more confident throughout the process. And today, she continues to live up to her mantra that “failure is not an option.”If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH JAN RECESKI AT:Website: https://onparnow.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/onparnowFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/OnParNowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/onpar-now

James Mauler was still early in his career when he decided to leave college and take a more hands-on approach with his education. Instead of completing a five-year degree in architecture, Jim realized that he could achieve his professional and financial goals by putting his drafting skills to work on the job. As an example, when computer-aided design (CAD) software was still in its infancy, he was the first person in his firm to volunteer to learn how to use it. This made him a go-to resource in the company, and it gave him the confidence he needed to know that he was on the right track.In the early 1990s, Jim was terminated from the company that he was working for at the time. He describes this as a blessing in disguise because it gave him a compelling reason to start his own company the very next day. Jim has been at the helm of Cadnetics for nearly 30 years, and his business has undergone tremendous growth and transformation during that time. The firm, which is headquartered in Pittsburgh, also has a presence in four other major markets throughout the country. Jim is currently realizing his vision of expanding to 10 cities in 10 years, and you can tell from our conversation that he is having a lot of fun in the process.If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH JAMES MAULER AT:Website: https://www.cadnetics.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cadnetics-incFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/cadnetics

If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH PATRICK COLLETTI AT:Website :https://refounder.comWebsite: https://www.nethealth.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-collettiInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/patrick_collettiFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/nethealthfits

Jess Iacullo started her brand, Hungry Jess Big City, as a passion project. It also served to give her a leg up on internship opportunities while she was a student at the University of Pittsburgh. Little did she know at the time but in a few short years her Instagram page would explode to over 35,000 followers. After working with a number of noteworthy media companies, such as Forbes, Business Insider, Food Network, and Discovery Plus, Jess realized that her increasing online popularity may be an avenue for her to explore entrepreneurship.In 2018, after moving back to Pittsburgh, Jess started to monetize her brand through client work and brand partnerships. Just when things were going well for her, she got an unexpected “cease and desist” letter in the mail from a California attorney. The explosion of her brand had reached across the country and caught the attention of someone with a similar business name. Jess had to go through the excruciating work of renaming and rebranding her company, which took a year to fully complete. Today, Hungry Jess Big City is a thriving business, and Jess currently works with many local and national clients.If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH JESS IACULLO AT:Website: https://hungryjessbigcity.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hungryjessbigcityFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/hungryjessbigcityLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hungry-jess-big-city

Deep in his heart, Adam Williams always knew that he was an entrepreneur. After a relatively short stint working for others, he decided that it was time to hang his own shingle. At first, like with many startups, Adam launched his business as a side gig. But six months later, he was making more money working for himself than at his regular job, plus he had all of the gratification that came with operating his own business. What first began as the Law Office of Adam Williams has been cleverly rebranded as Rust Belt Business Law.As you will hear in our conversation, Adam didn't go from zero to runaway success overnight. It was an evolution to get to where he is today, which is the leader of a law firm that has recently been recognized in the top 50 fastest growing firms in the United States. This is all the more impressive when you consider that this happened from his home base in western Pennsylvania, which has been a region of only modest job growth in recent years. With a blue-collar work ethic and a roll-up-your-sleeves attitude that he attributes to his upbringing, Adam remains committed to helping clients “create jobs, pursue opportunities, and improve our economy.”If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH ADAM WILLIAMS AT:Website: https://www.rustbeltlegal.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/rustbeltbusinesslawInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/RustBeltLegalLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rustbeltbusinesslaw

An intensive weeklong yoga teacher training in Costa Rica served as a major turning point in Dr. Shayla Cammarata's relationship to her yoga practice. She was dealing with several very difficult circumstances in her personal and professional life, and this retreat proved to provide the breakthrough that she needed. Upon her return, she embraced yoga wholeheartedly and committed herself to the practice. When her home studio in Wexford closed during the pandemic, Dr. Shayla and many others from that community decided that they had to do something about it.In 2021, with the support her fellow yoga instructors, Dr. Shayla decided to take the leap and start Ignite Yoga. She has since built a cohesive community where the teachers and students feel a genuine ownership of the studio. In this episode, Dr. Shayla talks about how she balances her work as an emergency room physician with running Ignite Yoga and what it means to work through personal and emotional issues “on the mat” as a daily practice.If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH DR. SHAYLA CAMMARATA AT:Website: https://www.igniteyogapgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/igniteyoga_pghFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069043382937

Sydney Smyers is a serial entrepreneur with three businesses under her belt. Her latest venture, The Maverick Co-Working Space, is a modern and comfortable co-working office located in the North Hills of Pittsburgh. She and her husband did the bulk of the renovation work to get the location cleaned up and opened in the fall of 2021. The result is a bright, colorful, and flexible space that inspires creativity and productivity. In this episode, Sydney talks about what it's like to be a partner in multiple businesses and how the idea for The Maverick came to life.If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH SYDNEY SMYERS AT:Website: https://themaverickpgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/themaverickpghFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Maverick-Pgh-101764332269737LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydney-smyers-mba-7968738b

Hey, everyone. Season 9 is here! It's full of in-depth conversations and inspiring stories that I know you will enjoy.Sydney Smyers, owner of The Maverick Co-Working Space, talks about the need for co-working locations in the suburbs. Dr. Shayla Cammarata, owner of Ignite Yoga, describes the important role that yoga studios play in the community. Jess Iacullo, founder of Hungry Jess Big City, tells the story of how a college side project exploded into a brand and business with a huge Instagram following. Adam Williams, founder of Rust Belt Business Law, explains why he chose to take a unique path when renaming and rebranding his law firm. And, Patrick Colletti talks about writing his book and how his role as “refounder” helped save Net Health from the brink of bankruptcy.I also had incredible conversations with Jim Mauler, founder of Cadnetics, Jan Receski, owner of OnPar Now, Emily Bezak of Emily Bezak Writes, Elisabeth Leach, co-founder of The Women's Collective Pittsburgh, Jordan Schulz, co-owner of Lifeside Studios, and more.These interviews are an excellent way for us to get to know our local entrepreneurial community on a much deeper lever. They are a chance to hear their stories and engage with them in their businesses. This is how we build a more vibrant small business community in Pittsburgh.Thanks for listening and for your support. If you're enjoying the podcast, tell a friend. Keep spreading the word, and keep supporting our local businesses. As always, feel free to reach out to me using my contact info below. Take care, and talk to you soon.YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247

Kristen Ricupero, owner of Financial Fitness Coaching, Wendy Gilch, owner of SellingLater.com, and Jessie Tait, owner of Enspra, are my guests for this small business roundtable episode. All three of them have been on the show previously, and each contributes generously to a dynamic, relevant, and entertaining discussion. Some of the many topics we cover include lessons learned from business mistakes, how to recession-proof your business, setting an example for your kids as a mompreneur, and ideas for adapting to the realities of the current labor market. Please enjoy this episode, and keep the ideas coming for guests that you'd like to see back on the podcast.If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So, please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!Kristen Ricupero's original episode: https://proprietorsofpittsburgh.com/episodes/dont-be-afraid-to-ask-for-help-kristen-ricupero-owner-of-financial-fitness-coachingWendy Gilch's original episode: https://proprietorsofpittsburgh.com/episodes/dont-try-to-be-perfect-wendy-gilch-owner-of-sellinglatercomJessie Tait's original episode: https://proprietorsofpittsburgh.com/episodes/do-something-that-adds-value-to-the-market-jessie-tait-owner-of-enspraYOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH KRISTEN RICUPERO AT:Website: https://financialfitnesscoaching.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/financial.fitness.coachingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/financialfitnesscoach18LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-ricuperoYOU CAN REACH WENDY GILCH AT:Website: https://www.sellinglater.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/selling_laterFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/sellinglaterLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendygilchYOU CAN REACH JESSIE TAIT AT:Website: https://www.enspra.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnspraLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessietaitInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/enspra1

I'm excited to debut a new interview format that I plan to bring you periodically throughout the year. Many of you have reached out to me asking for updates on previous guests. There has also been tremendous interest in hearing from small business owners with respect to current events and topics. So, I decided to sit down with several of our very own podcast alumni to get their take on what's happening out there. In this first small business roundtable discussion, Matt Marietti, owner of de Fer Coffee and Tea, Fiore Moletz, co-owner of Burgh'ers Brewing, and John Vella, owner of The John Vella Salon, are back on the show. We talk about what's going on in their businesses, what they've been working on, what their thoughts are on the latest issues facing their industries and the local economy, and much more. Please enjoy this dynamic conversation, and let me know who you'd like to hear from the next time that I do another small business roundtable episode.If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So, please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!Matt Marietti's original episode: https://proprietorsofpittsburgh.com/episodes/make-sure-your-heart-is-in-it-matt-marietti-owner-of-atelier-de-ferFiore Moletz's original episode: https://proprietorsofpittsburgh.com/episodes/surround-yourself-with-excellent-people-fiore-moletz-founder-of-burghers-brewingJohn Vella's original episode: https://proprietorsofpittsburgh.com/episodes/you-have-to-be-good-at-what-you-do-john-vella-owner-of-the-john-vella-salonYOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH MATT MARIETTI AT:Website: https://defer.coffeeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/defercoffeeandteaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/defercoffeeYOU CAN REACH FIORE MOLETZ AT:Website: https://burgherspgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/burghersbrewingpghFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BurghersBrewingYOU CAN REACH JOHN VELLA AT:Website: https://www.johnvellasalon.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejohnvellasalonFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/thejohnvellasalon

I had an amazing time sharing my story on Evolution of Brand, a podcast created and hosted by Jason Cercone. People often ask me why I created the Proprietors of Pittsburgh Podcast. In fact, it's one of the most frequently asked questions that I receive from listeners and guests. So, it was incredible to be able to talk with Jason in detail about my ideas and the passion that I have for my work. As you will hear in our conversation, the podcast is a culmination of three things that I love and that inspire me on a daily basis: the people of Pittsburgh, the small business community, and my entrepreneurial mother.Jason and I also get into depth about content creation, developing a niche in media and business, and the importance of consistency in mastering your craft. We also talked about how and why you need to promote your content, regardless of the medium that you use. In a world where most podcasters rely solely on organic social media posting, I've learned firsthand just how powerful paid ads and event promotions can be. Whether you're a content creator, small business owner, entrepreneur, or if you're just curious about how shows like this get started, I know you will find tremendous value in this episode.If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH JASON CERCONE AT:Website: https://jasoncercone.com/evolutionofbrandInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/evolutionofbrandYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/jasoncercone

CorEats, a packaged food company founded by Corry Smith, had its roots in her family's health journey which began fifteen years ago. What started as a series of strange systems experienced by her eldest daughter turned into major dietary and wellness changes for everyone in the household. Replacing the standard American diet with a whole foods diet turned out to be the difference maker they were searching for. Corry's dissatisfaction with many of the gluten-free options she found in the supermarket served as inspiration to create her own versions of the comfort foods that her family enjoyed.As she perfected her recipes and shared them with her community, Corry often received praise and affirmation that she had a culinary gift. After a spiritual fast in 2018, she fully accepted this blessing and decided to share her baking mixes on a much larger scale. It was during this brief period that she finalized and documented seven complete recipes which she debuted with the launch of her newly formed company. Today, CorEats is a vibrant and growing enterprise. Corry has an ever-expanding list of wholesale accounts, and she is currently finalizing arrangements to partner with a co-packer, which will bring her products to new locations throughout the country.If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH CORRY SMITH AT:Website: https://coreatsmixes.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/coreatsmixesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/coreatsmixes

Although Edgar Snyder is a Pittsburgher who needs no introduction, his personal and professional story may surprise you. In his candid conversation with me, Edgar talks about the challenges he went through and the negativity he endured as a result of doing something new and different in the legal profession. With the abundance of legal advertising today, it's easy for us to forget just how unique this was in the early 1980s when he was starting Edgar Snyder and Associates. A landmark U.S. Supreme Court case in the late 1970s made advertising for lawyers permissible, which opened up new marketing opportunities that very few lawyers dared to take advantage of at that time.Edgar was a pioneer in those early days, and he experimented with many types of ads across a variety of mediums. During our discussion, he describes the TV commercial that made him famous throughout western Pennsylvania. And in a poll conducted around that time, he even had greater facial recognition across our part of the state than President George H.W. Bush. Eventually, the rest of the industry caught up, and legal ads became the norm. But Edgar will forever be the trailblazer who took risks and set the standard in our region.Today, Edgar is semi-retired from the law firm he built, and he spends time enjoying life with family and friends. He has remained actively involved in philanthropy by supporting causes and organizations that are near and dear to his heart. In fact, giving back is a core part of the culture that he built into his firm, and it continues to be a driving force in how his associates view their roles in the communities they serve. Edgar is still a spokesman for the law firm, and you can find him on local billboards, internet ads, and television commercials with that signature finger point and slogan that we have come to know and love.If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH EDGAR SNYDER AT:Website: https://www.edgarsnyder.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/EdgarSnyderAssociatesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/edgarsnyderLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/edgar-snyder-&-associatesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/edgarsnyder

Hello, Pittsburgh. I'm excited to introduce a brand-new season for you – and it's jam-packed with unique episodes and bonus content. Season 8 has been an incredible one for me to record and produce, and I can't wait to share the full episodes with you.I had the great honor and privilege of interviewing attorney, Edgar Snyder - a person that I admire for the firm he has built, the trail he has blazed, and the philanthropic work he has done in Pittsburgh. I've been watching Edgar Snyder on TV since I was a kid, and I'm sure many of you have as well. I know everyone in Pittsburgh knows who Edgar is, but you may not know his personal journey and what he had to go through in order to build his firm. He shares that story plus a whole lot more in his candid interview with me for the podcast.Just before the holidays, I recorded my first “live audience” podcast with Corry Smith, owner of CorEats. We held the event at Café Conmigo in Wexford. Corry is a thoughtful and energetic business owner with a tremendous origin story, and I had a wonderful time interviewing her for the show. You'll definitely want to make sure that you catch this debut “live” episode.It was a real pleasure to have some prior guests come back onto the program for a group discussion, which is a new format that I decided to try for this season. The first group includes Matt Marietti, owner of de Fer Coffee & Tea, Fiore Moletz, co-owner of Burgh'ers Brewing, and John Vella, owner of The John Vella Salon. And the second session features Kristen Ricupero, owner of Financial Fitness Coaching, Wendy Gilch, owner of SellingLater.com, and Jessie Tait, owner of Enspra. In these small business roundtable discussions, we cover the latest developments in their businesses, what's happened since they were last on the show, dealing with the constantly evolving covid situation, and a variety of other business topics and ideas.In addition to all of this, I was recently a guest on the “Evolution of Brand” podcast, which is a new show created, produced, and hosted by Jason Cercone. In our conversation, we talked a lot about podcasting, marketing, and creating a niche for your content and business. I plan to drop this interview as a bonus in the feed. So, if you've been curious to know more about my reasons for creating the Proprietors of Pittsburgh Podcast and some of the strategy behind it, then you'll want to check this one out.I'd like to thank all of you for helping this podcast experience incredible growth in 2021, and I can't wait to see where things go in 2022. I know we're starting off right with this blockbuster season.If you have ideas for the podcast, know someone that would be an excellent guest, or if you just want to share some feedback, please reach out to me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247

After working for a number of years in the mold remediation industry, Matt Dayton decided that it was time to start his own company. He saw an opportunity to offer both an affordable and high-quality service to the many low-income households that were being neglected in the Greater Pittsburgh area. He grew up in a low-income household, so he knew that these were the very people that needed this type of service the most.Matt grew tired of watching underserved families get priced out the market while competitors catered to the high-income end of the price range. So, he invested every last dollar he had and brought in a few partners to get his business off the ground. Four years later, Pure Air is a thriving mold remediation and indoor air quality company, and Matt has plans to expand far beyond our region.If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH MATT DAYTON AT:Website: https://pureairnation.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/pureairnationInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/pureair412

If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH RUSSELL MICHELSON AT:Website: https://www.paperboxseo.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/paperboxseoLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/paper-box-seo

If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH SARA PONSOLL AT:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bohemepittsburghFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bohemepittsburghEmail: bohemepittsburgh@gmail.com

If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH SARAH KAMINSKI AT:Website: https://www.bestevergranola.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestevergranolaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bestevergranolapgh

If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH JOHN GRAF AT:Website: https://www.thepriory.comWebsite: https://www.mansionsonfifth.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprioryhotelInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mansionsonfifthFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/prioryhotelFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MansionsonFifth

As Natalie Gentile, M.D. was planning to move back to Pittsburgh with her family, she began searching for a way to practice medicine that fit her desire for a patient-focused approach. The type of comprehensive and wellness-centered care that she was interested in seemed to be disappearing from modern clinical medicine. Through conversations she had with her mentor, she discovered the direct primary care (DPC) practice model. By cutting out insurance companies and third parties from influencing medical decisions, this alternative format for primary care medicine meant that Dr. Natalie could focus her time and energy on lifestyle guidance and preventative measures to help her patients get well.In 2019, shortly after returning home to Pittsburgh, Dr. Natalie opened her own DPC practice - Gentile Family Direct Primary Care. Building a business from scratch would prove challenging as physicians do not learn any of these skills in medical school. Nevertheless, as she dug into all of the details of starting a new company, Dr. Natalie quickly discovered a love for entrepreneurship that she didn't know she had. As a board-certified family medicine and lifestyle medicine physician, Dr. Natalie is free to run her practice in a way that allows her to spend as much time as needed with her patients while keeping their overall health and well-being front and center. If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH DR. NATALIE GENTILE AT:Website: https://www.directcarepgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/directcarepghFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DirectCarePghLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-gentile-md-5982b081

In 2017, Kelly Sanders and Monica Yope met at a tech conference. As the two lone, non-tech creatives in the room, they quickly became friends. As they got to know each other, they discovered their common passion for supporting local makers. Inspired by a shared vision, they realized that the city needed a physical space to showcase the abundance of talent in our region. So, they decided to turn the building that Monica found in Mt. Washington into their first love, Pittsburgh location.Fast forward four years and Kelly and Monica now operate three locations throughout the city of Pittsburgh. Their initial lineup of 40 artisans has grown to over 100, and their stores have also achieved a GOLD Certification from Sustainable Pittsburgh for their work in reducing their carbon footprint. Love, Pittsburgh has become a home base for some of the best artisans in the area, and it has also become a favorite shopping destination for visitors and locals alike. In fact, Kelly and Monica created the name “love, Pittsburgh” to invoke the feeling that everything in their stores is like a gift to us from our beloved city.If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH KELLY SANDERS & MONICA YOPE AT:Website: https://lovepittsburghshop.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lovepittsburghshopFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/lovepittsburghshopPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/lovepittsburghshop

Derek's inspiration to create Café Conmigo originated from a trip he took to Argentina. It was there that he fell in love with a quaint little cafe, which featured delicious coffee served in a tranquil space and enveloped with ample arrangements of lush green plants. During his time in college, he developed a further affection for Latin American culture through the relationships he nurtured with his many Spanish-speaking friends. Although he attended school in Austin, Texas, he felt as though he was studying abroad due to the highly diverse make-up of the student body. The name of Derek's coffee shop is Spanish for “coffee with me,” and it pays homage to this significant period of his life.Derek's drive to become an entrepreneur began at an early age with his involvement in the family business. His parents' work ethic made a lasting impression on him, and they often encouraged their son to work for himself. After exploring a few early ventures, including a website that helped university students to buy, sell, and swap textbooks and furniture, he decided to do something that was more suited to his personality. Although he was interested in boutique hotels and restaurants, Derek felt that launching a café allowed him to test his hand at hospitality, albeit in a way that was in better alignment with his current level of food and beverage experience. After consulting with T.J. Fairchild, owner of Commonplace Coffee and a well-known local figure in the café startup scene, Derek built his business and opened his doors in early 2021.If you have any questions or if you'd like to chat, you can reach me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH DEREK DAVIES AT:Website: https://www.cafeconmigo.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/cafeconmigocoffeeFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/CafeConmigoCoffeeEmail: info@cafeconmigo.com

YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247YOU CAN REACH MARK CASKEY AT:Website: https://steelnation.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/steelnationbuildingsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/steel-nation-inc-Phone: 724-225-2202

Hello, Pittsburghers. The line-up for Season 7 is impressive. I will be talking to Mark Caskey, founder of Steel Nation – a remarkable company that designs and constructs steel buildings in the oil and gas industry. I also have Derek Davies on the show. He is the owner of Café Conmigo – a tranquil oasis and gathering spot located in the North Hills. I sit down with Kelly Sanders and Monica Yope, owners of the love, Pittsburgh stores, which are wonderfully curated shops featuring locally made goods. I talk to Dr. Natalie Gentile, founder and owner of Gentile Family Direct Primary Care – a medical practice that's working to reshape the primary care landscape in our region. John Graf is on the podcast. In the 1980s, his family helped save several historic properties in the Deutschtown neighborhood and turn them into what is known today as the Priory Hotel and Grand Hall. I speak with Sarah Kaminski, owner of Best Ever Granola – and let me tell you, her product lives up to its name! And, I chat with Sara Ponsoll, owner of Boheme Pittsburgh – a unique marketplace and incubator for local artisans, makers, and curators. These are just some of the amazing entrepreneurs and small business owners that you will hear from in this season.If you have ideas for the podcast, know someone that would be an excellent guest, or if you just want to share some feedback, please reach out to me at my contact info below. The purpose of this podcast is to share ideas, inspire action, and build a stronger small business community here in Pittsburgh. So please say hello, tell me what you think, and let me know how I'm doing. It means a ton!YOU CAN REACH ME AT:Website: https://www.proprietorsofpittsburgh.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/proprietorsofpittsburghpodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinvilanoPhone: 412-336-8247