The Small Business Mentor Podcast by Alan Pentz

What if you could break through business growth plateaus while preparing for a successful exit? In this episode of Small Business Black Holes, host Alan Pentz talks with Patrick Metzger from Growing For Success about navigating common growth challenges, implementing EOS frameworks, and leveraging AI to transform business operations. Whether you're struggling with founder bottlenecks, seeking to build transferable value, or wondering how to adapt to emerging AI technologies, this conversation delivers practical strategies for scaling your business intentionally. Tune in to discover why waiting too long to plan your exit could be your biggest mistake, and how to build a business that's both sustainable and sellable.

In this episode, Alan Pentz shares his journey of creating OwnerRx, an AI-native app that democratizes business coaching by combining artificial intelligence with proven business methodologies. Learn how this innovative platform breaks down complex business practices into digestible daily actions, provides strategic clarity, and offers accountability - all while leveraging the latest in AI technology to deliver personalized coaching at scale. Whether you're a small business owner feeling stuck or an entrepreneur looking for structured guidance, this conversation reveals how AI is revolutionizing business coaching and making expert guidance more accessible than ever. • Learn how AI is transforming business coaching and strategic planning • Discover why traditional coaching methods often fall short for small businesses • Explore how complex business practices can be broken down into manageable daily tasks • Understand the power of AI-native applications versus AI-retrofitted solutions • Get insights into how automated coaching can provide accountability and strategic clarity

In this episode of Small Business Black Holes, host Alan Pentz sits down with Gabe Lullo, founder of Alleyoop, to explore how fractional SDR services are revolutionizing B2B sales. Learn why cold calling is still effective, how to leverage LinkedIn for business growth, and why building your sales team around specialized roles is crucial for scaling. Whether you're a founder doing all the selling or ready to build a proper sales organization, this conversation offers practical insights into modern sales development strategies. Tune in to discover how combining human touch with AI-powered tools can dramatically improve your lead generation and sales processes.

In this episode of Small Business Black Holes, Alan Pentz sits down with Gavin Howarth, CEO of Howarths, to explore the delicate art of family business succession and modern HR challenges. From successfully transitioning a family business without damaging relationships to navigating the complexities of workplace culture in a post-pandemic world, this conversation offers invaluable insights for business owners. Whether you're managing a family enterprise or seeking to build a high-performance culture, you'll discover practical strategies for growth, including how to leverage data and AI while maintaining the human element in your organization.

What if you could build multiple profitable agencies instead of struggling to scale just one? In this episode of Small Business Blackholes, Alan Pentz sits down with Eli Rubel, founder of Profit Labs and serial agency entrepreneur, to explore how he achieved remarkable 67% profit margins, why sometimes being too profitable can actually hurt your business, and the strategic decision to build multiple million-dollar EBITDA agencies rather than scaling one massive organization. Whether you're hitting growth plateaus or seeking better profitability, this conversation reveals actionable insights about operation optimization, talent management, and the counterintuitive approach to sustainable agency growth. Tune in to discover why the path to greater profits might not be what you expect.

In this episode of Small Business Black Holes, Alan Pentz sits down with Garrett Mehrguth, founder of Directive and More Good Capital, to explore why differentiation trumps "being better," how to navigate critical growth phases, and what AI means for the future of professional services. Whether you're stuck at $3M or $6M in revenue, this conversation delivers actionable insights on strategic positioning, building effective leadership teams, and leveraging new technologies to scale your business. Tune in to discover why focusing on solving specific problems for specific audiences is the key to sustainable growth in today's market.

In this episode of Small Business Black Holes, Alan Pentz and Tonya Berenson challenge traditional lengthy planning sessions and reveal how to transform them into efficient, focused meetings using AI and modern tools. Whether you're running a $2-10M company or looking to scale, discover how to condense annual planning into 4 hours, quarterly reviews into 2 hours, and maintain momentum with strategic monthly check-ins. Tune in to learn how to create actionable plans that don't derail your team's productivity or drain your resources.

In this episode of Small Business Black Holes, host Alan Pentz sits down with Nick Huber, founder of multiple successful companies including Bolt Storage and author of "The Sweaty Startup," to explore why traditional boring businesses often outperform trendy startups, how to leverage referral marketing effectively, and why variable compensation is a game-changer for business growth. Whether you're looking to start a new venture or scale your existing business, this conversation is packed with practical insights on building sustainable wealth through proven business models rather than chasing unicorn dreams.

In this episode of Small Business Black Holes, host Alan Pentz sits down with Mike Maxson and Brandon Gray from Simple Numbers, a renowned financial advisory firm, to explore the three stages of business growth, why owner independence requires more than just systems, and what current economic trends mean for small businesses. Whether you're struggling with capital constraints, management challenges, or uncertain market conditions, this conversation delivers practical insights on right-sizing your business and building sustainable growth. Tune in to learn why managing a bank account balance alone could be holding your company back.

In this episode of Small Business Black Holes, Alan Pentz introduces the Business Maturity Assessment, a groundbreaking tool designed to help business owners understand their company's strengths and weaknesses. Learn how this free assessment examines everything from personal vision to financial metrics, providing a clear roadmap for growth. Whether you're stuck in a revenue plateau or seeking strategic direction, discover how this innovative approach can help identify your biggest opportunities for improvement and guide your next steps toward sustainable growth. • Evaluate your business across six key dimensions • Align your business strategy with personal goals • Understand the real trade-offs between growth and lifestyle choices • Get personalized insights with a free consultation • Focus improvement efforts where they matter most

In this episode of Small Business Black Holes, host Alan Pentz explores the emerging business opportunities in psychedelic wellness with Golden Rule representatives Tiffany Hurd and Rachel Pastor. They dive deep into how microdosing is transforming mental health and peak performance, examining everything from business models and regulatory challenges to product development and market evolution. Whether you're curious about alternative approaches to business innovation or interested in emerging healthcare markets, this conversation offers valuable insights into navigating complex regulatory environments while building a purpose-driven company. Discover how this Colorado-based business is pioneering new paths in an industry projected to reach $3.3 billion, while maintaining focus on their mission to transform lives.

In this episode of Small Business Black Holes, host Alan Pentz sits down with John Giorso, founder of venture studio Vanta5, to explore why most businesses are approaching marketing all wrong, how to identify your highest-ROI marketing channels, and the key differences between B2B and B2C marketing strategies. Whether you're paralyzed by marketing options or frustrated with lackluster results, this conversation delivers practical frameworks for testing and scaling the marketing tactics that will actually move the needle for your business. Tune in to discover why focusing intensely on just 2-3 marketing channels often outperforms trying to do everything at once.

In this episode of Small Business Black Holes, host Alan Pentz sits down with Tyler Hortin, Co-founder of Lion Energy, to explore bootstrapping a technology company from zero to $100M, managing rapid growth while maintaining profitability, and revolutionizing home and commercial power solutions. Whether you're scaling a product-based business or seeking insights on sustainable growth strategies, this conversation dives deep into the challenges of building teams, allocating capital, and maintaining quality through explosive growth phases. Tune in to discover how strategic reinvestment and disciplined product development can drive consistent business expansion. • Bootstrapping growth from startup to $100M in revenue • Balancing product development with profitability • Strategic approaches to hiring and team scaling • Managing multiple sales channels and product lines • Navigating manufacturing decisions and supply chain challenges

Want to stop flying blind in your business? In this episode of the Small Business Black Holes, Alan and Tonya dive deep into why proper accounting is the non-negotiable foundation every business owner needs. Learn why tracking just 7 key financial metrics can transform your decision-making, how to break out labor costs correctly, and why many business coaches are missing the mark by ignoring financial fundamentals. Whether you're doing $500K or $5M in revenue, this conversation offers actionable insights to help you build the financial clarity needed for sustainable growth. Tune in to discover why accounting isn't just about tax compliance – it's about speaking the true language of business.

What happens when political polarization meets a razor-thin congressional majority? In this episode of Small Business Black Holes, host Alan explores the current state of Congress with Matthew Green, a political science scholar at Catholic University and expert on congressional leadership. Together they unpack the historical parallels to today's political climate, examine how social media and close elections have transformed congressional behavior, and discuss what might happen next in an increasingly volatile political landscape. If you're trying to understand the deeper institutional forces shaping American politics, this fascinating conversation provides crucial context for our current moment while highlighting potential paths forward through uncharted territory.

What if you could align your business with your personal vision and energy, rather than constantly fighting against yourself? In this episode of Small Business Black Holes, Alan Pentz explores two groundbreaking tools being developed at Owner Institute - a personal vision framework and an energy/value matrix that helps business owners intentionally design their role. Whether you're feeling stuck in your current business model or questioning if your company truly serves your life goals, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on business ownership. Learn why traditional business optimization methods might be holding you back, and discover how to create a more intentional path forward that energizes both you and your company's growth.

Are you stuck in the million-dollar revenue black hole? In this episode of Small Business Black Holes, Alan and Tonya unpack why businesses often stagnate between $1-2M in revenue and what it really takes to break through. From the harsh realities of making tough hiring decisions to understanding when 'good enough' isn't good enough anymore, this conversation offers practical insights for business owners feeling trapped by their own success. Learn why only 0.4% of businesses make it to $5M in revenue, and discover the essential trade-offs required to join their ranks. Whether you're working nights and weekends trying to do it all, or struggling to let go of control, this episode provides the strategic clarity needed to escape the entrepreneurial black hole and scale your business beyond current limitations.

In this episode of The Small Business Black Holes, host Alan Pentz chats with Tonya Berenson about the crucial stages of business evolution and why owners must transform their roles to break through growth barriers. Whether you're wrestling with the 'ceiling of brute force' at $5-10M or struggling to transition from being the primary salesperson, this conversation reveals why traditional hustle alone won't get you to the next level. Learn why your role must evolve from working 'in' the business to working 'on' and eventually 'above' it - and how understanding these stages is crucial for achieving true owner independence."

What if you could navigate the crucial growth stages of your business without the painful trial and error? In this episode, Alan Pentz shares his raw, personal journey of scaling Corner Alliance from a startup to a $35M company, revealing the critical 'black holes' that trap business owners at different revenue levels. Whether you're stuck at $1M, $5M, or $10M+, Alan breaks down exactly why owners get trapped, when to hire key personnel, and how to make the tough decisions necessary for breakthrough growth. Tune in to discover why everything in your business is the owner's fault - and more importantly, how to fix it.

In this episode of The New Rules, hosts Alan Pentz and guest Tonya Berenson tackle the global demographic crisis, exploring the worldwide decline in birth rates and its far-reaching implications. They dive into the complex factors behind falling fertility rates, from Japan to Europe, and discuss why common policy solutions aren't working. The conversation weaves through economic consequences, retirement system challenges, and potential future scenarios, offering a thought-provoking look at one of the most significant yet under-discussed trends shaping our future.

In this episode of The New Rules podcast show, host Alan Pentz is joined by Tonya Berenson, to discuss the fascinating dynamics of the tech takeover in government, the historical context of industry influence on politics, and the implications of AI on our future.

Alan and Tonya discuss Mario Draghi's report on EU economic challenges, covering tech innovation gaps, productivity issues, and potential solutions. They also explore AI valuation concerns and its gradual effects on the workforce and economy.

In this episode of The New Rules, host Alan Pentz is joined by Paul Hodges, Chairman of New Normal, to discuss the insights from the latest PH Report. They explore the impact of demographic shifts on the economy, the challenges of government debt, and the evolving landscape of investment strategies. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that navigates the complexities of today's financial world!

In this episode of The New Rules with Alan Pentz podcast, host Alan is joined by Professor Michael Beckley, a political science professor at Tufts University to discuss the shifting dynamics of global power. They delve into the peaking of Chinese economic growth, the implications of Xi Jinping's leadership, and the potential military tensions surrounding Taiwan. Tune in for an insightful conversation that explores the future of U.S.-China relations and the broader geopolitical landscape!

In this episode of The New Rules, host Alan Pentz dive into the intriguing world of tech influencers and their impact on politics with Tonya Berenson. They discuss the rise of "tech bros," the evolving relationship between government and technology, and how social media is reshaping political strategies. Join them for a lively conversation that explores the intersection of technology and governance just in time for the holiday season!

In this episode of the Small Business Mentor podcast, Alan Pentz is joined by John Matzner, President at Lazy Leverage. They delve into using global resources efficiently, cautioning against over-leveraging with debt, the importance of humility and adaptability in business, and the power of output thinking. They explore the challenges of entering different industries and highlight the value of building solid systems, particularly in using offshore talent effectively. Additionally, they discuss the importance of maintaining authenticity and integrity in business dealings.

Alan Pentz explores the concept of national capitalism and the end of the current international monetary system, examining how countries will navigate debt, industrial policy, and the challenge of China's manufacturing dominance.

Alan Pentz analyzes global power dynamics through the lens of The Hunger Games, examining how nations position themselves in a world where China races against demographic collapse while the US maintains strategic advantages.

Alan Pentz and Tom Terbush explore the massive energy demands of AI and data centers, examining the challenges and solutions for powering the next technological revolution while maintaining sustainability goals.

Alan Pentz and Tonya Berenson explore why dramatic government reform proposals often fail, examining the practical challenges of budget cuts and what real, sustainable change requires from both tech leaders and policymakers.

Alan Pentz and Tonya Berenson discuss the 2024 election results through a global economic lens, challenging conventional political narratives and exploring the fundamental economic forces shaping voter behavior across democracies.

Alan Pentz and Steven Wilkinson discuss building a sustainable business model focused on working smart rather than large, the importance of balance between work and family life, and insights into value investing and global economic shifts.

Alan Pentz and Tonya Berenson explore how societal focus on safety has led to stagnation, and how external threats and crises can drive innovation and progress, with specific focus on energy needs for AI development and the changing global economic landscape.

In this insightful episode, Alan Pentz speaks with Moses Sternstein about the fundamental shifts in capital markets. They explore the transition from the low-interest "finance bro" era to what Moses calls the "national nursing home" economy, examining how rising rates and demographic changes are reshaping investment strategies and capital allocation.

Alan Pentz and Tonya Berenson explore the fundamental challenges in US-China economic relations, discussing China's state-directed capitalism, its impact on global trade, and potential US responses including capital controls and strategic realignment with allies.

In this thought-provoking episode, Alan Pentz and Dean Ball explore the challenges and opportunities facing American manufacturing. They discuss the impact of China's economic policies, the potential of AI in reshaping industries, and innovative approaches to revitalizing U.S. manufacturing capabilities.

In this thought-provoking episode, Alan Pentz and Tonya Berenson delve into major geopolitical shifts, discussing the end of a 40-year cycle of global stability, the challenges of energy policy, and the rapidly changing power dynamics in the Middle East.

Alan and Tonya discuss Mario Draghi's report on the EU's economic challenges, exploring issues like the lack of tech innovation, productivity gaps, and potential solutions. They also delve into AI valuation concerns and the gradual impact of AI adoption on the workforce and economy.

In this thought-provoking episode, Alan and Tonya explore the complexities of renewable energy, voter distribution, and fundamental philosophical differences underlying political debates. They discuss the challenges of scaling solar energy, analyze voter clusters in the US political system, and delve into the historical roots of conservative and progressive thought.

In this insightful episode, Alan sits down with Tonya Berenson to discuss significant shifts in global economics. They explore China's economic model, changing perspectives on free trade, the future of inflation, and how these factors are reshaping investment strategies..

In this insightful episode, Alan interviews Jon Morris, founder and CEO of Fiscal Advocate and former CEO of Rise Interactive. Jon shares his expertise on financial management in professional service companies, discussing key metrics, investment strategies, and the importance of data-driven decision-making for business growth and profitability.

In this insightful conversation, Alan interviews Mickie Kennedy, founder and CEO of eReleases, a press release distribution service for small businesses. Mickie shares his journey in the PR industry, discusses effective strategies for creating impactful press releases, and offers valuable advice for small businesses looking to gain media attention.

In this insightful conversation, Alan interviews Jesse Lewis, owner of District Performance and Physio, a cash-based physical therapy practice in Washington, D.C. Jesse shares his experience growing from a single practitioner to multiple locations, discussing marketing strategies, growth challenges, and the importance of company culture in the healthcare industry.

In this insightful conversation, Alan interviews Eric Pacifici, a partner at SMB Law Group specializing in small business M&A. Eric shares his expertise on current market trends, the intricacies of SBA financing, and the challenges of running a law firm focused on small business transactions.

In this enlightening conversation, Alan interviews Gabriel Muller, an EOS Worldwide implementer. Gabe shares his journey from financial services to EOS implementation, discussing the transformative power of the Entrepreneurial Operating System in businesses, the challenges of leadership team dynamics, and the path to creating self-managing companies.

In this insightful conversation, Alan interviews Clifton Sellers, founder of Legacy Builder, a content marketing agency. Clifton shares his journey from corporate fundraising to building a seven-figure agency, discussing the power of personal branding, the challenges of scaling a business, and valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs in the digital marketing space.

In this insightful conversation, Alan interviews Dominic Tullo, a fourth-generation businessman running TNR Oil Company. Dominic shares his experiences in the diesel fuel distribution industry, discussing the evolution of his family business, the challenges of the fuel industry, and the complexities of managing a multi-generational family enterprise.

In this insightful conversation, Alan interviews Steve Wiesner, owner of Watershed Associates, a negotiations training company. Steve shares his journey from private equity to small business ownership, discussing the myths and realities of business acquisition, the challenges in the private equity industry, and valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs.

In this insightful conversation, Alan interviews Shawn Busse, founder of Kinesis, a marketing and business strategy firm. Sean shares his journey from running a brand design shop to building a comprehensive business strategy firm. They discuss the evolution of marketing, the importance of company culture in recruitment, and innovative approaches to B2B marketing and business growth.

In this insightful conversation, Alan interviews Cliff Kennedy, founder of Frios Gourmet Pops, a rapidly growing franchise of modern ice cream trucks. Cliff shares his journey from the oil and gas industry to building a multi-million dollar popsicle empire, discussing franchise strategies, unique flavors, and the power of community-based business models.

In this insightful conversation, Alan interviews Tom Hunt, founder of Fame, a podcast agency. Tom shares his journey from B2B marketing to building a multi-million dollar podcast production company. They discuss the evolving landscape of B2B marketing, the power of personal branding, and the strategic use of podcasts in building audience relationships.