Business Owners Tell All
By: Jamie Seeker
Language: en
Categories: Business, Entrepreneurship, Management
On The Seeker Solution Podcast, your host, Jamie Seeker encourages business owners to tell all! They'll share not only their expertise, but their stories and their purpose and what it takes to run a successful business. We cover a wide range of topics – the good and exciting, the challenges and sometimes the ugly. Experiences and lessons learned that our guests have faced along the way. We believe that every person has a unique message which can make a positive impact . We let our guests share on the subjects they’re well-known for. No matter the topic, you’ll be hearing real s...
Episodes
Marketing That Moves the Needle: Arielle Cohen on Scaling Service Businesses with Strategy
Jan 08, 2026In this episode, she unpacks how authenticity, strategic financial planning, leadership evolution, and bold branding helped her business not just survive—but scale. From creating “Stoplight Reports” to empowering global teams, Arielle offers practical advice with raw honesty and high energy.
📝 Key Interview Notes
🔥 Startup Story
Arielle didn’t start with Marketing 411—she had several businesses that didn’t make it.The breakthrough came from a chance meeting with her future business partner in the roofing space.They combined forces to meet a pressing market demand for marketing services in contracting.💡 “Oh Crap” & “Aha” Moments<... Duration: 00:21:50
The Woman Behind the Verdicts: Building More Than a Law Firm
Jan 05, 2026In this episode, Laura dives into her growth strategy, from starting her firm in her living room to making intentional hiring decisions and scaling while staying mission-driven. She also breaks down how she approached financial planning, cash flow, and the importance of knowing when to ask for help. Her perspective on balancing business with empathy, motherhood, and personal leadership makes this episode especially empowering for women and minority entrepreneurs.
🔑 Key Notes & Topics
🎯 Founding Story
Survivor of a serious injury at age 3 (German shepherd attack).Channeled that trauma into a passion for justice and advocacy.Initia... Duration: 00:25:36Demystifying Money: What Randy Lorensen Wants You to Know About Financial Freedom
Jan 01, 2026In this insightful episode, Randy Lorensen shares his unexpected journey from poker pro to national franchise founder. He talks candidly about starting Premium Cabinets with no background in design or construction, and how his drive for continual growth led him to systematize the business for national scalability. Randy also dives deep into financial mindset, offering practical tips for business owners, and previews his upcoming book aimed at transforming the way people understand money.
This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs looking to gain control of their finances, scale smart, and adopt an abundance mindset.
📝 EPISODE NOT... Duration: 00:26:20
Just Say It: Culture, Courage & the Real Work of Leadership
Dec 25, 2025In this episode of Business Owners Tell All: What It Takes, host Jamie Seeker sits down with Jonathan Raymond, the founder and CEO of Ren AI, a coaching technology company based in San Diego, California. With a background that spans law, tech entrepreneurship, and nonprofit leadership, Jonathan shares how he discovered the missing link in leadership: authentic, emotionally intelligent conversations.
We dig into:
Why leaders struggle with hard feedbackHow personal development collides with business resultsThe myth of “soft skills” in the workplaceWhy culture is the biggest driver of financial outcomesCommon financial missteps leaders make while scaling... Duration: 00:23:02
Mom Boss Mode: Julie Cole on Building Mabel’s Labels from Scratch
Dec 18, 2025In this candid and energizing episode, Julie Cole shares the story of how she left a career in law to co-found Mabel’s Labels, all while raising six kids and navigating the challenges of early entrepreneurship. From launching in a basement with her sister and two friends to growing into a business with a 20,000 sq. ft. facility and 50+ employees, Julie walks us through the grit, risk, and reality behind building a brand parents trust.
She dives into how thoughtful business planning, strong partnerships, and a culture of shared accountability powered their growth — and how managing both a fami...
Duration: 00:25:52What the Hustle Doesn’t Tell You: The Truth About Success, Failure, and Reinvention
Dec 11, 2025In this episode, Jamie Seeker sits down with self-made entrepreneur Yousef Benhamida, who turned a one-bedroom apartment and a few hundred dollars into Humboldts Secret Supplies—now one of the top-selling plant nutrient brands in the U.S.
Yousef opens up about how success came not just through hustle, but from rock bottom moments, personal loss, and radical discipline. From taking stimulants to stay awake through 16-hour workdays to losing it all after reaching a false peak, he shares the real story behind what it takes—not just to build a business, but to rebuild a man.
Justice with a Human Touch: Kyle Bachus on Law, Loss & Leadership
Dec 04, 2025In this powerful and heartfelt episode of Business Owners Tell All: What It Takes, Jamie Seeker sits down with Kyle Bachus, co-founder of Bachus & Schanker, LLC in Denver, Colorado. From his early inspiration as a 17-year old arguing in a mock Supreme Court, to founding one of the most respected personal injury law firms in the region, Kyle shares what it really takes to build a values-driven business — one rooted in justice, service, and heart.
But this episode goes far beyond business. When Kyle’s own mother was tragically killed in a crosswalk accident, the work he had...
Duration: 00:25:04In the Eye of the Storm: Standing Tall with Attorney Juan Cruz
Nov 27, 2025In this episode of Business Owners Tell All: What It Takes, Jamie Seeker sits down with Juan Cruz, founder and managing attorney of JCA Law, PLLC, a Texas-based education law firm with offices in Laredo, San Antonio, and Corpus Christi. With nearly 30 years of legal experience and a track record that includes a win before the Texas Supreme Court, Juan shares the grit, strategy, and heart it took to build a respected firm from scratch.
Juan opens up about:
Walking away from big law to follow his own visionBuilding a niche firm in education lawBalancing courtroom... Duration: 00:26:15Charging Ahead: How Joseph Nagle Is Powering the EV Revolution at Home
Nov 20, 2025In this insightful and candid episode, Joseph Nagle, Head of Strategy at Pando Electric, shares how his team is disrupting the EV charging space by simplifying the tech, targeting underserved communities, and building a resilient, mission-aligned company culture.
From securing a $5.4 million state grant to pioneering smart outlet charging that cuts costs and maintenance, Joseph walks us through what it takes to build a scalable and meaningful solution in an emerging industry—while also opening up about leadership, hiring, and the importance of persistence.
📝 EPISODE NOTES
🚀 Startup Journey & Industry Insights
Pando Electric’s innovati... Duration: 00:21:00The Road to Approval: Zoning Out the Noise with Jake Malott
Nov 13, 2025In this episode, Jamie sits down with Jake Malott, the founder of Whitestone DCI, a Los Angeles-based consulting firm that specializes in preconstruction project management and land use consulting. From giving Segway tours and dressing as a pineapple to breaking through LA’s regulatory red tape, Jake’s journey into business ownership is anything but conventional.
He shares how persistence, creativity, and valuing his own work were key to launching and sustaining his company — all while building a team, learning on the fly, and reinventing his pricing model in an ultra-competitive, bureaucratic environment.
Whether you’re in re...
Duration: 00:33:31The Joy Prescription: Inside the Vet Revolution to Thrive, Not Just Survive
Nov 06, 2025In this episode, Dr. Lauren Jones, a veterinarian and Director of Veterinary Medicine at Shepherd Veterinary Solutions, shares her deeply personal and powerful journey from childhood dreams of vet med to burnout, evolution, and bold leadership. Now based in Phoenix, Arizona, Lauren owns and leads the Animal Hospital of Chester County remotely, while serving the broader industry through tech and advocacy work. She opens up about the mental toll of veterinary work, the importance of human-centered leadership, and how embracing team input and streamlined software radically improved her practice and quality of life.
📌 Key Notes & Takeaways:
... Duration: 00:21:59
Blueprints & Direction: What It Takes to Lead a Creative Business
Oct 30, 2025In this insightful episode of Business Owners Tell All: What It Takes, host Jamie Seeker talks with Justin Tollefson, Principal at Pearson Design Group, a boutique architecture firm based in Bozeman, Montana known for designing stunning, story-driven homes. Justin opens up about his 20+ year journey with the firm, how his leadership style has evolved, and what it really takes to run a design-focused business with heart. From building creative culture and hiring for character to developing young talent and navigating the less glamorous parts of leadership, this conversation gets real about the human side of architecture.
Whether...
Duration: 00:19:47Keeping the Music Alive: How Early Arts Education Builds Stronger Futures
Oct 23, 2025In this inspiring episode, Jamie Seeker sits down with Dr. Michael Remson, President and CEO of KeyNote, home of the San Diego Youth Symphony, located in San Diego’s historic Balboa Park. Michael shares his powerful journey from growing up in musical theater in New York City to becoming a nationally respected nonprofit arts leader. He dives into how music shaped his life from a young age, how early access to arts education builds future-ready skills in children, and why cradle-to-college programming is the future of inclusive arts access. He also opens up about the challenges of managing 80+ staff, re...
Duration: 00:29:58Lights, Camera, Revenue: How Events Became a Growth Engine
Oct 16, 2025In this episode of Business Owners Tell All: What It Takes, Jamie Seeker sits down with Shay Wheat, Certified Event Producer™ and CEO of Grace & Ease Productions. Shay shares her powerful journey from managing apartments and doing network marketing to producing multi-million dollar events for powerhouse names like Dr. Oz and Lisa Nichols.
We dive into how events became her ultimate business-building tool, how she pivoted to virtual when the world shut down, and what it really means to lead a business with grace and ease. Shay opens up about the backstage chaos that taught her the im...
Duration: 00:29:30Leading Without Borders: A Global Playbook for Modern Leadership
Oct 09, 2025In this episode of Business Owners Tell All: What It Takes, Jamie Seeker sits down with Miguel Adao, CEO of Voler Systems, to explore what it means to be a truly global leader. With a career that’s taken him across eight countries, five languages, and leadership roles at Pepsi, HP, VMware, and more, Miguel shares how cultural intelligence has shaped his leadership philosophy and career path.
Now based in Sunnyvale, California, Miguel leads Voler Systems with a unique mix of engineering expertise, marketing savvy, and global perspective. He dives into the lessons he’s learned working with...
Duration: 00:24:07Pitch Perfect: PR Lessons from a Dragons’ Den Deal-Maker
Oct 02, 2025In this episode of Business Owners Tell All: What It Takes, Jamie sits down with Bryce North, founder and CEO of Don’t Be A Little Pitch, a bold media and branding company headquartered in Manila, with global reach. Bryce shares how he went from startup founder to media magnet — landing deals on Dragons’ Den, scaling companies across 40+ countries, and raising over $600K through crowdfunding — all by mastering the power of storytelling and PR.
The episode dives into the tactical side of visibility — how to create media-worthy stories, build credibility from scratch, and stand out in a noisy star...
Duration: 00:18:23The Grit Behind the Green: Where Passion Meets Pavement
Sep 25, 2025In this episode of Business Owners Tell All: What It Takes Jamie sits down with Daniel Woodroffe, the visionary behind dwg., a landscape architecture firm based in Austin, Texas (and now London) that's on a mission to reshape urban environments through art, ecology, and purpose-driven design.
Daniel shares his journey from growing up in England to launching a globally respected firm that transforms overlooked and often toxic urban sites into vibrant, biodiverse public spaces. He opens up about the challenges of leading a creative business, the battles fought to get meaningful projects like Springdale Green off the...
Duration: 00:25:08Crafting Culture One Snack at a Time: Claude Burns' Mission-Driven Business Journey
Sep 18, 2025In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, Jamie sits down with Claude Burns, Founder and CEO of Office Libations, to unpack his journey from serving in the U.S. Navy to building one of the fastest-growing companies in workplace hospitality. Claude shares how the lessons learned aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln and his experience with elite Navy teams shaped his leadership style and business values. From launching craft beer ventures to pivoting during the COVID-19 pandemic, Claude opens up about the ups, downs, and smart pivots that led Office Libations to the INC 5000 list three...
Duration: 00:19:49Legacy in Progress: How Ryan Teicher is Reinventing REDCOM
Sep 11, 2025In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, host Jamie Seeker sits down with Ryan Teicher, CEO of REDCOM Design & Construction, to explore the unique path he’s taken across family business, corporate leadership, and now steering a legacy company into a more sustainable and scalable future. With over 25 years of experience in the construction and real estate world, Ryan shares candid insights into what it takes to lead with humility, balance innovation with tradition, and earn trust while driving change.
From sweeping floors on job sites in his teens to leading infrastructure projects fo...
Duration: 00:19:07Behind the Curtain: Lights, Leadership & the Art of Corporate Event Production
Sep 04, 2025In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, host Jamie Seeker sits down with Evan Williams, CEO and Co-Founder of Riverview Systems Group, Inc., a Silicon Valley-based live event production company with a 38-year track record of staging unforgettable experiences for major global brands like Google, Apple, and Cisco.
Evan shares the unlikely blend of theater and accounting that led to his success, how he kept his team intact during the pandemic by pivoting to virtual production, and why empowering people is the secret to creating extraordinary events—and lasting culture. He also talks ab...
Duration: 00:25:58From Foundation to Finish: How Scott Rodwin Built His Dream Firm
Aug 28, 2025In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, host Jamie Seeker talks with award-winning architect and sustainability leader Scott Rodwin. From starting his firm after spontaneously quitting a job in 1999 to building a nationally recognized design/build company, Scott shares how community, collaboration, and bold thinking have shaped his journey.
He opens up about:
The early days of hustling for projectsHow he built two thriving businesses in tandemThe philosophy behind taking full responsibility for the client experienceLessons from surviving economic downturnsWhy teaching, service, and advocacy are part of his business DNA...
Duration: 00:28:16A Better U: How Psychedelic Therapy Changed One Life—and Launched a Movement
Aug 21, 2025In this emotional and eye-opening episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, host Jamie Seeker sits down with Derek Du Chesne, co-founder and CEO of Better U, a telehealth company offering at-home psychedelic therapy. Derek shares his deeply personal journey—from achieving outward success to hitting rock bottom after a mental health crisis. He opens up about how a single ketamine therapy session saved his life, shifted his inner dialogue, and inspired him to start a mission-driven company focused on making mental health treatment more accessible, affordable, and holistic.
Listeners will hear firsthand about Derek’s tr...
Duration: 00:29:13The Woman Behind the Voice: Jill Gustavson on Leading with Heart and Hustle
Aug 14, 2025In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, Jamie Seeker sits down with Jill Gustavson, Co-Founder and Executive Vice President of Topaz Services, LLC — a hospitality contact center that’s grown from a bootstrapped startup into a nationwide operation serving over 80 hotels.
Jill shares her remarkable 40+ year journey, beginning in the early days of tech publishing, where she started her career at Byte Magazine in the 1970s. With a deep background in publishing, project management, and advertising, Jill took the leap into entrepreneurship in 1986, co-founding San Francisco Reservations with her husband, Eric. Over the deca...
Duration: 00:23:58Built Like an Athlete, Built for Business: Cody Romness on Allegiate
Aug 07, 2025In this high-energy episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, Jamie Seeker sits down with Cody Romness, co-founder of Allegiate, a strength training gym bringing college-level athletic structure and performance to everyday people. From the football field at USC to the startup world at Patreon, Cody’s path has been anything but ordinary.
He shares how the athlete’s mindset of grit, discipline, and team dynamics has shaped every move he’s made as an entrepreneur. We get into the intentional branding behind Allegiate, the mindset challenges of scaling, and what it really takes to lead a...
Duration: 00:29:01Healing for the Outliers: Helping the Misunderstood Heal
Jul 31, 2025In this heart-centered and thought-provoking episode, host Jamie Seeker speaks with Ari Drosman, founder and Chief Visionary Officer of Resurface Group, a mental health and addiction treatment organization designed specifically for people who don’t fit into traditional systems—what Ari calls “the outliers.”
Ari shares how his path into psychology began unexpectedly, sparked by a powerful moment of connection with a client during his early fieldwork. Over the past two decades, he's developed a fully integrated, life-based approach to healing that blends personal presence, innovation, and flexibility.
Together, Jamie and Ari unpack what it means to...
Duration: 00:24:15The Entrepreneur’s Edge: Mindset, Sacrifice & Success
Jul 24, 2025In this episode, Levi King shares his entrepreneurial journey, the mindset shifts that helped him succeed, and the sacrifices he made along the way. From cold-calling businesses in his 20s to raising $200M in venture capital, Levi opens up about the grit, resilience, and personal growth required to build multiple successful businesses.
🔹 Key Themes & Takeaways:
1️⃣ The Mindset of an Entrepreneur
Grew up in rural Idaho in a strict, traditional environment that discouraged thinking outside the box.Realized early on that he didn’t trust others with his future and needed to forge his own path.Star... Duration: 00:25:55Behind the Badge: Leadership Lessons from an LAPD Veteran
Jul 17, 2025In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, host Jamie Seeker sits down with Jeff Wenninger, a retired LAPD lieutenant with over 33 years of experience. Jeff shares his journey from overcoming dyslexia and a speech impediment to becoming a leader in one of the most demanding police forces in the country.
Jeff’s path to law enforcement was unexpected—after a negative encounter with police as a college student, he shifted his focus to criminal justice, aiming to create change from within. Over the years, he worked in elite LAPD units, including Metropolitan Division, wher...
Duration: 00:26:40Beyond Buildings: Balancing Creativity, Function, and Impact in Architecture
Jul 10, 2025In this episode, Jamie Seeker sits down with Paul Ladensack, a seasoned architect with over 30 years of experience designing spaces that go beyond function—they tell stories, honor history, and serve communities. As a principal at CCBG Architects, Paul has led a variety of award-winning projects, including cultural, religious, commercial, and residential buildings.
Paul shares insights on balancing creativity with functionality, how every building has a DNA, and the importance of listening to clients. He also talks about adaptive reuse—revitalizing historic spaces rather than demolishing them—and the impact that design has on people’s daily lives.<...
Duration: 00:17:34Simplicity Wins: The Genius Behind Elegant, Efficient Architecture
Jul 03, 2025In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, host Jamie Seeker interviews award-winning architect Tessa Bradley about her journey in sustainable architecture, Passive House design, and the challenges of being a female business owner in the industry. Tessa shares her philosophy on solving complex problems with simple, efficient design, why Passive House is the future of sustainable living, and how she built her firm in a traditionally male-dominated field. She also dives into the realities of business ownership, leadership, and the importance of thinking like an owner before you become one.
Key Takeaways & Notes:<... Duration: 00:27:44
Reimagining Roofing: How Kody Landals is Disrupting the Industry
Jun 26, 2025In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, host Jamie Seeker sits down with Kody Landals, a USMC veteran and founder of Reimagine Roofing, to discuss how he’s transforming the roofing and solar industry. Frustrated with unreliable roofing companies while working in solar sales, Kody decided to create a more transparent, efficient, and customer-focused roofing company. In just a few years, he’s scaled Reimagine Roofing to a multi-state operation, offering real-time quotes, no-pressure sales, and innovative digital solutions.
Kody shares his biggest challenges, including how the collapse of the solar industry nearly took...
Duration: 00:25:01Beyond the Blueprint – How Lance Cayko Masters Business and Balance
Jun 19, 2025In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, Jamie Seeker sits down with Lance Cayko, a multi-talented entrepreneur, architect, professor, podcast host, and co-founder of F9 Productions. Lance shares his journey from growing up on a North Dakota farm to becoming a leader in the architecture and design industry. He dives into how getting laid off pushed him to start his own firm, the importance of discipline and intentionality in business, and how he balances work with his passion projects like fishing and community gardening.
Listeners will gain insights into entrepreneurship, time management, leadership...
Duration: 00:32:24Reforming Pilates: How Laura Wilson is Shaping the Future of Fitness
Jun 12, 2025In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, Laura Wilson, founder of Natural Pilates, shares her incredible journey of immigrating to the U.S. with just $100 and turning her passion for movement into a thriving Pilates business.
From discovering Pilates while working in a physical therapy office to building multiple studio locations, launching an online fitness platform, and developing a teacher training program, Laura has navigated the challenges of entrepreneurship with resilience and adaptability.
She also takes us behind the scenes of how she pivoted during the pandemic, scaled her business, and...
Duration: 00:27:12From Passion to Profit: The Entrepreneur’s Creative Journey
Jun 05, 2025Dave Benton, founder of Metajive, shares his journey from an accidental entrepreneur to leading a top-tier digital agency working with brands like Nike, Red Bull, and Google. He discusses the challenges of scaling a creative business, the importance of relationships in securing major clients, and the mindset shifts required to sustain long-term success. Through personal setbacks, industry changes, and pivotal moments of reinvention, Dave emphasizes adaptability, accountability, and the willingness to keep moving forward—even when things get tough.
Key Takeaways & Notes:
1️⃣ Accidental Beginnings → Intentional Growth
Dave never intended to start a company; Metajive was init... Duration: 00:28:59Beyond Borders: How Nearshore Staffing is Changing the Hiring Game
May 29, 2025In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, host Jamie Seeker sits down with Brian Samson, founder and CEO of Plugg Technologies, to discuss how nearshore staffing is transforming the hiring landscape. Brian shares his journey from leading talent acquisition at top Silicon Valley startups to relocating to Argentina to build a nearshore team, and ultimately founding multiple companies specializing in Latin American talent.
They explore why more U.S. companies are hiring beyond borders, how remote work has reshaped talent acquisition, and what business owners should know about cost, efficiency, and cultural differences...
Duration: 00:27:20Sleep Smarter, Lead Stronger: The Science Behind Success
May 22, 2025In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, host Jamie Seeker sits down with James Leinhardt, the CEO and Chief Sleep Posture Expert at Levitex. James has built a business around improving sleep posture, working with elite athletes, healthcare professionals, and everyday consumers to optimize their rest. He shares how he turned sleep science into a thriving company, the challenges he faced in educating the market, and why sleep posture is critical for performance and well-being.
They also dive into James’ entrepreneurial journey, from developing a patented sleep surface to supporting Team GB’s Para...
Duration: 00:29:34From Fjords to Foundations: Growing a Vision for Sustainable Landscape Design
May 15, 2025On this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, we sit down with Ive Haugeland, founder and principal of Shades of Green Landscape Architecture. Her journey is a powerful story of taking risks, following a passion, and staying true to her values while building a thriving business.
Originally from Norway, Ive started her career designing environmentally sensitive landscapes before making the leap to California in 2000. With no roadmap, she built Shades of Green in 2004, blending Scandinavian design principles with modern sustainability.
But what does it take to turn a creative vision into a...
Duration: 00:21:36Scaling a Vision: Robert Ancill’s Path to Building an International Brand
May 08, 2025In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, host Jamie Seeker sits down with Robert Ancill, CEO of The Next Idea Group, to discuss his journey of reinvention from a culinary professional to a global business leader in hospitality and design.
Robert shares how he pivoted industries, scaled a business to 24 countries, and oversaw 89+ brand launches and 800+ restaurant openings worldwide. He dives into the challenges of growing a business internationally, the key ingredients for success, and what he’s learned from working with top hospitality brands.
Memorable Quotes from Robert Ancill:
...
Duration: 00:26:00From Startup to Scale: James Bates on Raising $20M & Revolutionizing Healthcare
May 01, 2025In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, we sit down with James Bates, the Founder & CEO of AdviNow Medical, a company leveraging AI and augmented reality to transform healthcare. James shares his incredible journey—from leading billion-dollar tech businesses to raising $20 million to build his own game-changing startup.
We dive into the realities of scaling a business, the challenges of raising capital, and how James navigated industry pushback to bring innovation to healthcare. He also shares lessons in resilience, leadership, and team-building, giving founders and entrepreneurs a firsthand look at what it really ta...
Duration: 00:30:07From Farm to Table to Food Truck: Anne Shadle’s Recipe for Success
Apr 24, 2025In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, host Jamie Seeker interviews Anne Shadle, co-owner of the award-winning Mayan Cafe in Louisville, Kentucky. Anne shares her entrepreneurial journey, starting with the launch of the Mayan Cafe in 2007 alongside her brother-in-law, Chef Bruce Ucán. Together, they’ve expanded the business into catering services and a food truck concept while staying true to their mission of sustainability and exceptional customer experiences.
Anne also discusses her additional ventures—Left Brain Solutions, an operations consulting company, and Lupine Floral Design, a boutique floral business—highlighting her passion for ent...
Duration: 00:19:32Leading with Heart: A Journey from Boardrooms to Meditation Rooms
Apr 17, 2025In this inspiring episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, we sit down with Puran Bair, an electrical engineer-turned-entrepreneur and meditation expert, to explore his incredible journey. Puran shares how he transitioned from corporate leadership roles to co-founding iamHeart, a business rooted in Heart Rhythm Meditation. We dive into the challenges of merging spirituality with entrepreneurship, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and how leading with heart can transform not just businesses but lives.
Listeners will gain insight into the intersection of science and spirituality, the practical applications of heart-centered leadership, and actionable ad...
Duration: 00:21:56From Spark to Splash: Dallin Huso’s Blueprint for Entrepreneurial Success
Apr 10, 2025This episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All features Dallin Huso, the owner and visionary behind Flamingo Pools, a premier pool maintenance company in Arizona. Dallin shares how he transformed his business into a trusted brand by focusing on customer-first principles, innovative services, and strong team leadership. From the challenges of scaling a service-based business to the importance of streamlining operations, Dallin provides actionable insights for entrepreneurs looking to align their business goals with their life vision.
Notes for the Episode
Key Topics to Highlight:
Origins of Flamingo PoolsDallin’s mo... Duration: 00:21:34
Sustainable Steeping: The Nepal Tea Collective Story
Apr 03, 2025In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, Jamie sits down with Nishchal Banskota, the founder of Nepal Tea Collective, a mission-driven company reshaping the global tea trade. Nishchal shares his journey as a second-generation tea producer, how his family's legacy inspired his mission, and his drive to connect Nepalese tea farmers directly with consumers. We explore the challenges of creating a transparent tea supply chain, the importance of sustainability, and lessons Nishchal learned as a young entrepreneur. From being featured in The New York Times and Forbes to advocating for the UN's Sustainable Development Goals... Duration: 00:22:08
Brewing Inclusion: How Gerry's Cafe is Changing Lives and Building Community Acceptance
Mar 27, 2025This episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All features Natalie Griffin and Amy Philpott, co-founders of Gerry’s Cafe, a nonprofit cafe that provides employment opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Natalie, a former special education teacher, and Amy, a seasoned business professional, joined forces to address the high unemployment rate within this community. Opened in 2023, Gerry’s Cafe combines a mission-driven purpose with excellent craft food and beverages.
The discussion focuses on their journey, from overcoming challenges like grassroots fundraising and pandemic delays to building a supportive community and creating an inclusive work...
Duration: 00:22:58Cleaning Up the Competition: Adam Povlitz’s Leadership Journey
Mar 20, 2025In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, we sit down with Adam Povlitz, CEO and President of Anago Cleaning Systems, a leading global commercial cleaning franchise. Adam shares his inspiring journey from the corporate world at IBM to stepping into his family’s business and leading it to international success.
We’ll explore what it takes to transition from a corporate career to entrepreneurship, the leadership lessons Adam has learned along the way, and how he scaled Anago into the global powerhouse it is today. Adam also dives into the challenges of growing a co...
Duration: 00:30:45From Cold Calls to Corner Office: Glenn Poulos on Building a Sales Empire and Winning Customer Relationships
Mar 13, 2025From Cold Calls to Corner Office: Glenn Poulos on Building a Sales Empire and Winning Customer Relationships
Guest: Glenn Poulos
Co-founder of Gap Wireless.Author of Never Sit in the Lobby: 57 Winning Sales Factors to Grow a Business and Build a Career Selling.Sales expert with 40 years of experience in the field, including starting and selling two successful businesses.Key Points Covered in the Episode
Glenn’s Journey into SalesBegan in 1985 after a government mentor told him he “needed to sell things for a living.”Learned the power of leverage in sales—... Duration: 00:24:16
Breaking Barrels and Barriers: Rhonda Kallman’s Trailblazing Journey in Craft Beverages
Mar 06, 2025In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, host Jamie Seeker sits down with Rhonda Kallman, a pioneering entrepreneur in the beverage industry and co-founder of The Boston Beer Company, to discuss her remarkable journey. Rhonda shares the challenges she faced as one of the first women in the male-dominated alcohol beverage industry, how she helped shape the craft beer revolution, and her transition to founding Boston Harbor Distillery, where she crafts innovative spirits with a rich nod to Boston’s heritage. Rhonda opens up about her resilience in overcoming setbacks, the lessons she’s learned abou... Duration: 00:24:27
Pouring Innovation: How Ralph Marucci is Revolutionizing Hydration Sustainably
Feb 27, 2025Episode Summary
Title: Hydration, Sustainability, and Scaling with Purpose: Ralph Marucci of Hydr8
In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, host Jamie Seeker welcomes Ralph Marucci, co-founder and CEO of Hydr8, a company revolutionizing hydration and sustainability in the workplace. Ralph shares his entrepreneurial story, beginning with early lessons in equity, transitioning into the medical sales world, and eventually co-founding Hydr8 in 2017 to tackle single-use plastics and deliver cutting-edge hydration solutions.
Ralph discusses how Hydr8 differentiates itself with multi-stage water filtration systems, their commitment to reducing plastic waste, and...
Duration: 00:30:39From Local to Global – Mastering Leadership and M&A Strategies with Rajeev Mudumba
Feb 20, 2025What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Rajeev's journey from student to global business leader.How to overcome cultural barriers when managing international teams.The importance of building trust during mergers and acquisitions.Key strategies for scaling businesses from startup to multimillion-dollar revenue.Why mutual respect and clear outcomes are essential in leadership.How to balance passion and purpose in your career.Practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and leaders looking to expand globally.Connect with Rajeev Mudumba:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rajeevmudumbaPodcast: Plan B SuccessWebsite: Cooey HealthQuotes from the Episode:
“Treat others th... Duration: 00:20:08From Barista to CEO: Brewing Success with Trevor Corlett
Feb 13, 2025What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All– Episode Summary and Show Notes
Episode Title:
"From Barista to CEO: Brewing Success with Trevor Corlett"
Key Takeaways:
The Value of Identity in Business: Trevor explains how discovering his personal and business identity was critical to finding success after two failed ventures.Lessons from Failure: Insights into how setbacks can shape resilience and inform better decision-making.Differentiation in a Crowded Market: How Madcap Coffee stands out in the competitive specialty coffee industry.The Power of Values: Why maintaining core values over 16 years has been pivotal to... Duration: 00:24:24Building Resilience: Phil Corbin’s Journey from Recession Startup to Million-Dollar Construction Company
Feb 06, 2025Guest
Phil Corbin, President and Founder of Phil Corbin Construction Inc.
Topics Covered
[0:05] - Introduction to Phil Corbin
Jamie introduces Phil’s journey from tradesman to entrepreneur, highlighting his resilience and determination.
[1:47] - Taking the Leap During a Recession
Phil explains how he was “forced” into entrepreneurship when his previous employer shut down, prompting him to take on any available job, from handyman tasks to small remodels, to support his family.
[4:10] - Humility and Opportunity in Hard Times
Phil shares how humbling himself to acc...
Duration: 00:21:21Quiet Strength: How Jill Hamblen Turned Personal Experience into Purpose-Driven Healthcare Design
Jan 30, 2025Guest:
Jill HamblenFounder and President, triARC architecture & designSpecializes in healthcare architecture, motivated by personal experiencesIntroverted leader who prioritizes empathy and values in businessTopics Covered:
Jill’s Path to PurposeHow her daughter’s NICU experience led Jill to specialize in healthcare designThe role of physical spaces in supporting healing and human connection
Founding triARC architecture & design
The leap from architect to business ownerThe importance of grit and trusting the journey in entrepreneurship
Leadership as an Introvert
Jill’s approach to leadership as an introvert in a relationship-driven industryStrategies for buildi... Duration: 00:24:03
Identity vs. Brand: Scaling Your Business Beyond Yourself with Rich Kozak
Jan 23, 2025Guest: Rich Kozak, Founder of Rich Brands
Memorable Quotes:
“A brand isn’t your perception; it’s the perception in others’ minds.”“To scale, you must evolve both the brand and the perception around it.”“When founders share their vision, things become clearer for everyone involved.”Key Takeaways:
The Nature of Brand: Rich defines branding as the perception held by others and explains why that perspective is key.Scaling Beyond Self: Founders can maintain their identity while allowing the brand to take on its own growth path.Ego and Vision: Balancing ego with a shared vision ma... Duration: 00:16:17Pivoting to Success: How Matt Remuzzi Scaled CapForge to a Nationwide Powerhouse
Jan 16, 2025Key Takeaways:
The Entrepreneurial Start:Matt started CapForge after being laid off in 2000, leveraging his background in small business consulting. He had a goal to build something scalable and long-lasting.
Pivoting to Bookkeeping:
In 2012, Matt realized consulting wasn't scalable for him and identified a gap in the market for affordable, high-quality bookkeeping. This pivot led to the growth of CapForge.
Scaling to 85+ Employees:
Matt shares how intention and delegation allowed him to scale from a one-person firm to a team of 85 professionals while maintaining high standards of service.
Flat-Fee Pricing Model:
... Duration: 00:28:16
From Talk to Action: Leadership and Communication Strategies for Success
Jan 09, 2025Guest:
Richard Blank, CEO of Costa Rica’s Call Center
Key Topics Discussed:
Richard's unique journey from the U.S. to Costa Rica and how he built a call center from scratchThe challenges and successes of training over 10,000 bilingual telemarketersAdvanced communication strategies, including phonetic micro-expression readingGamification techniques to boost employee motivation and engagementConflict management strategies and the importance of empathy in leadershipPractical advice for business owners on growing steadily, with a focus on soft skills and emotional intelligenceKey Quotes:
"It's about perseverance, dedication, and really loving what you do. When yo... Duration: 00:26:31Betting on Innovation: Nick Jain on AI and High-Stakes Leadership
Jan 02, 2025Guest:
Nick Jain, CEO of IdeaScale
Key Topics Discussed:
IdeaScale’s Growth: How Nick’s leadership scaled IdeaScale into a global innovation platform.AI in Business: Early adoption of AI and how it transformed their operations.Challenges with AI: Problems like outdated code and "hallucination" errors in AI tools.Balancing Leadership & Personal Life: How Nick finds balance through hobbies like poker and running.Key Insights for Business Owners: What it takes to be a business owner today, including hard work and continuous self-improvement.Key Moments:
[00:01:00] – Nick discusses how IdeaScale began.[00:02:30] – The moment N... Duration: 00:26:01Doing the Next Right Thing: Robyn Chu’s Path to Scaling with Purpose
Dec 26, 2024Key Topics Covered:
Inspiration for Growing Healthy SeasonsRobyn’s story of being inspired by a child with autism while lifeguarding, leading her to pursue a career helping children with special needs.Journey from Vision to ActionHow Robyn’s experiences and her desire to fill gaps in the healthcare system led to the creation of Growing Healthy Seasons.Scaling the BusinessRobyn shares the pivotal moment when she realized the need to scale—during her pregnancy—and how this led to hiring her first team members.Maintaining Quality While ScalingRobyn’s commitment to ensuring high-quality care through a structured leadership and mentor... Duration: 00:27:03Purposeful Promotions: Karie Cowden’s Path to Impactful Entrepreneurship
Dec 19, 2024Guest: Karie Cowden, Founder of Connect the Dots Promotions
Host: Jamie Seeker
Episode Overview:
In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, Jamie Seeker sits down with Karie Cowden, the founder of Connect the Dots Promotions, a company that merges creativity with social impact through promotional products. Karie shares her inspiring journey from a surprising start in the industry to nearly three decades of running her business, working with major brands like Walmart and Boeing. She talks about the importance of social responsibility, sustainability, and giving back to the community...
Duration: 00:23:25From Translator to Immigration Advocate: Building a Mission-Driven Law Firm
Dec 12, 2024Guest:
Shannon Englert, Founder and Managing Attorney at DYAD Immigration Law
Summary:
In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, host Jamie Seeker sits down with Shannon Englert, the visionary founder of DYAD Immigration Law. Shannon shares her inspiring journey from working as a translator to becoming a managing attorney, driven by a passion for helping businesses and families navigate the complex world of U.S. immigration law. She opens up about the challenges of running a mission-driven law firm, focusing on sensitive cases like visas for trafficking and domestic v...
Duration: 00:24:17Scaling SEO Like a Scholar: Hunter Cambon's Page One Digital Journey
Dec 05, 2024Guest:
Hunter Cambon, COO of Page One Digital
Summary:
In this episode, Host Jamie Seeker sits down with Hunter Cambon, the Chief Operating Officer at Page One Digital, to explore his unique journey from being an educator to running a successful digital marketing agency. Hunter shares how his skills in problem-solving, leadership, and adaptability, honed in the classroom, translated into scaling Page One Digital alongside his wife and CEO, Kimberly. The discussion dives into the challenges of working as a husband-and-wife team, building scalable systems in digital marketing, and the importance of continuously...
Duration: 00:25:53Meet the Seeker Solution Team
Dec 04, 2024What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All - Episode 1
Host: Jamie Seeker
Guests: Andrea Hannibal, Brianna Dalton, Kristin Byers
Brought to you by: Seeker Solution
Episode Summary:
In this inaugural episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, Jamie Seeker and her team introduce the podcast, which is designed for business owners and entrepreneurs. Jamie and her team share the vision behind the show, aiming to connect business owners and share real, unfiltered stories about the challenges and successes they face. This episode sets the...
Duration: 00:14:46What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All Podcast Trailer
Dec 03, 2024🎉 Welcome to What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All with Jamie Seeker!
Get ready to be inspired, motivated, and enlightened by real stories from entrepreneurs who know what it takes to succeed. In this trailer episode, we’re sharing highlights from our first interviews, where our incredible guests open up about their biggest lessons, toughest challenges, and proudest victories.
Whether it’s navigating uncertainty, celebrating growth, or finding balance along the way, What It Takes promises to deliver authentic, actionable, and heartfelt conversations to fuel your entrepreneurial journey.
🔥 Official launch coming Dec 5! Follow and subscr...
Duration: 00:03:08