Leaders Across America With Steve Acorn

How does a 19-year-old go from zero business experience to running a six-figure painting company, and then go on to build a thriving career as a State Farm agency owner? In this conversation, Steve Acorn reconnects with John Magoto, one of the top-performing alumni from the early 2000s who helped shape the very foundation of YEAA. They reminisce on John's three-year journey in the program, how he trusted the process even when it felt overwhelming, and why he's still using the lessons of "Eat the Frog" and "Start the Next Day the Night Before" two decades later. John shares how YEAA didn't just teach him how to run a business. It taught him how to lead people, create systems, and develop a work ethic that gave him a massive head start. Now a successful business owner in Denver, John reflects on how those early summers planted the seeds for the freedom, lifestyle, and leadership he enjoys today.     Timestamped Highlights  [00:02] – "It feels like yesterday"—John reflects on 22 years since running his YEAA branch [00:04] – Getting the call in his dorm room: how one phone call changed his life [00:06] – How Scott Snyder "sold the dream" without ever selling [00:08] – Paint cans, ladders, and asking if he could bring his parents to the Award Trip [00:10] – Rookie year numbers: breaking $100K+ in the early 2000s [00:14] – The second-year breakthrough: two vans, paint sprayers, and a killer crew [00:17] – Why John hired a marketing team and prioritized lead flow over painting [00:21] – The power of delegation and the gift of learning what you don't want to do [00:24] – Eat That Frog: the book that changed how he works and lives [00:27] – "Start the next day the day before"—his planning system still used today [00:30] – Work-life balance: is it real? John shares his honest take [00:34] – Building joy into the work: a ladder, a speaker, and friends singing on the job [00:36] – His biggest mistake: waiting too long to let go of the wrong hires [00:38] – His proudest moments: client tears, transformation, and impact [00:42] – Why he chose insurance, and how he became a State Farm owner at 24 [00:46] – Challenges in entrepreneurship: freedom comes after the grind [00:49] – What he tells every young person: "Trust the process, and trust yourself" [00:52] – Advice for new interns in YEAA's 40th year: if you've got the bug, do it     About the Guest John Magoto spent three years in the YEAA program and became one of the top-producing branch managers of the early 2000s. After launching his entrepreneurial career through Student Painters, he went on to become one of the youngest agency owners at State Farm. Now based in Denver, John runs a successful insurance practice, leads a thriving team, and spends his free time skiing, biking, and chasing adventures with his wife and young son. 🔗 LinkedIn     Mentioned Resources Eat That Frog by Brian Tracy State Farm Insurance Miami University of Ohio (John's alma mater)     Important Links Gain real-world business experience, build leadership skills, and create a foundation for future success: YEAA Website Watch our case study: Leaders Across America Find more success stories here: Our Alumni Connect with Steve: LinkedIn: Steve Acorn Instagram: @steveacornyeaa      Leaders Across America is an original podcast brought to you by Steve Acorn. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

What if your kid called you and said they were going to run a painting business with zero experience? Would you think it was a scam? That's exactly how this episode kicks off with Sigi Loya, father of two YEAA alums (Emilio and Maggie), and a seasoned entrepreneur himself. In this rare, raw, and honest conversation, Sigi reflects on what it was like watching both of his kids go through the Young Entrepreneurs Across America program: from knocking on doors to managing payroll, to learning hard lessons in leadership and growth. If you're a parent who's hesitant—or even skeptical—about whether this program is too much for your son or daughter, this is the episode you need to hear. Because Sigi gets it. He's been there. And his perspective will help you see that real growth comes from real challenges. Tune in to hear how this program didn't just build confidence. It gave his kids a serious head start in business, leadership, and life.     Timestamped Highlights [00:03] – "He thought it was a scam…" Sigi shares Emilio's first reaction to the program [00:09] – Why being a business owner helped Sigi recognize the opportunity for his kids [00:14] – From roof jobs in Texas heat to teaching his kids the value of work [00:17] – Sigi breaks down the five business pillars YEAA interns actually experience [00:23] – The surprising leadership growth in his daughter Maggie—and how she changed [00:29] – The key mindset Sigi instills in his kids: Radical responsibility and self-reflection [00:34] – Why Sigi pushed Emilio to come back as an exec—and the power of teaching others [00:39] – "What's the worst that could happen?" Sigi's message to skeptical parents [00:42] – Entrepreneurship vs. employment: The overlooked risks of corporate "safety" [00:44] – Why multiple income streams (and confidence to lead) matter more than ever     About the Guest Sigi Loya is a longtime entrepreneur, business coach, and the proud father of two YEAA alumni, Emilio and Maggie. After a 12-year corporate career, Sigi launched several businesses and now leads a coaching organization that supports business owners across multiple industries. As a parent and business leader, he brings a rare dual perspective on what it really takes to raise independent, confident, and capable adults and why the YEAA program helped accelerate that process for his children. 🔗LinkedIn   Mentioned Resources YEAA Internship Program – yeaainternship.com     Important Links Gain real-world business experience, build leadership skills, and create a foundation for future success: YEAA Website Watch our case study: Leaders Across America Find more success stories here: Our Alumni Connect with Steve: LinkedIn: Steve Acorn Instagram: @steveacornyeaa     Leaders Across America is an original podcast brought to you by Steve Acorn and Podcast Your Brand. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

What if sharing a car and knocking on doors as a student became the launch pad for a six‑figure business? In today's conversation, Steve welcomes Eric Fraser — once a rookie branch manager with the YEAA program (via Student Painters) and now the founder of PitStop Mobile Oil Change. Eric drops the story of how he and his brother shared one vehicle, hustled through logistics and cold‑calling, and eventually scaled a mobile oil‑change business to nearly $750K in revenue. They explore the mindset of radical responsibility, the value of early accountability, and how hard‑earned habits from a summer business translate into both corporate and entrepreneurial success. Listen now to avoid staying stuck in "what‐if" mode, gain a unique blueprint you won't read in textbooks, and commit to the kind of execution that turns ideas into action.     Timestamped Highlights [00:01:15] – The ROTC‑to‑entrepreneur pivot: Why physics major Eric chose the summer business route [00:03:45] – How Eric and his brother ran one car, shared gas funds and built their first branch manager launch [00:08:45] – Why having "just one car" forced discipline, marketing, and accountability [00:14:51] – The journey from $60K in sales his first year to managing and mentoring a team [00:17:16] – The mobile oil change business idea: from Jiffy Lube job to fleet contract with 500‑700 oil changes/month [00:22:17] – Cold‐calling Avis/Budget fleet accounts: the prompt and process behind the break‑through deal [00:28:15] – The three big takeaways: start messy, delegate for leverage, radical responsibility wins [00:43:33] – What's next: "Messy growth year" 2025 and goal to build a ~$1M‑sale business in 3‑5 years     About the Guest Eric Fraser is the founder of PitStop Mobile Oil Change, a growing mobile fleet and retail vehicle maintenance service with locations in Columbus, OH and San Diego, CA. A former branch manager with Student Painters/YEAA, Eric leveraged early leadership and sales experience to transition into data analytics and consulting roles (including at Booz Allen Hamilton and Intuit's QuickBooks division) before returning to scale his own business. His blend of operational discipline, sales grit and leadership mindset offers a rare blueprint for students, corporate professionals and entrepreneurs alike. 🔗LinkedIn | PitStop Website | eric.fraser@pitstopmobileservice.com   Mentioned Resources Student Painters / YEAA internship program Jiffy Lube (as early job context) Data analytics consulting: Booz Allen Hamilton, QuickBooks Payments     Important Links Gain real-world business experience, build leadership skills, and create a foundation for future success: YEAA Website Watch our case study: Leaders Across America Find more success stories here: Our Alumni Connect with Steve: LinkedIn: Steve Acorn Instagram: @steveacornyeaa     Leaders Across America is an original podcast brought to you by Steve Acorn and Podcast Your Brand. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

What if the summer job you take in college becomes the foundation of a multi-business career before you're even 24? In this eye-opening conversation, host Steve Acorn sits down with Emilio Loya, former Pennsylvania Manager of the Year and now founder of Affordable Business Valuations and Staff Edge Assessments. Emilio's story begins with cold calls and paint quotes, but quickly turns into an entrepreneurial blueprint that merges leadership, valuation strategy, and DISC-based team building. From breaking $420K in student-run revenue to impressing C-suite decision-makers as the youngest in the room, Emilio shares how YEAA transformed not just his resume but his mindset. If you think you need to "wait your turn" to be successful in business, this episode will change your mind. Press play now to discover how to skip the corporate ladder, close high-trust deals, and build the kind of business that actually sells. This episode delivers rare, proven strategies—don't miss out.     Timestamped Highlights [00:03] – Why Emilio launched a valuation company before age 24 [00:06] – The shock most owners face when they hear their business's real worth [00:10] – The two questions that determine if a business can actually be sold [00:14] – "I walked in 10 years younger than everyone. Here's what happened next." [00:16] – Referral marketing vs cold calling—what works better in B2B [00:19] – DISC assessments decoded: How they prevent hiring disasters [00:22] – The single YEAA skill Emilio says made the biggest difference [00:35] – How his exec-year leadership prepared him to manage teams today [00:43] – The mindset shift that helped him avoid stress and scale fast     About the Guest Emilio Loya is the founder of Affordable Business Valuations and Staff Edge Assessments, where he helps small business owners understand their company's true worth and build stronger teams through behavioral assessment tools. A two-time YEAA intern, Emilio went from winning Manager of the Year in Pennsylvania to mentoring rookies and managing $420K+ in business by his second year. Now he brings that same process-driven mindset to helping entrepreneurs make smarter, more profitable decisions. 🔗 LinkedIn | Website   Resources & Links Mentioned DISC Personality Assessments Staff Edge Assessments TTI Success Insights (DISC partner) YEAA Internship     Important Links Gain real-world business experience, build leadership skills, and create a foundation for future success: YEAA Website Watch our case study: Leaders Across America Find more success stories here: Our Alumni Connect with Steve: LinkedIn: Steve Acorn Instagram: @steveacornyeaa      Leaders Across America is an original podcast brought to you by Steve Acorn and Podcast Your Brand. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

In this episode of the Leaders Across America Podcast, Steve Acorn reconnects with Jimmy Smith, a two-year veteran of the YEAA program who has gone on to build a thriving Amazon business, train over 10,000 students, and create one of the most recognized online communities for e-commerce sellers. Jimmy shares how Student Painters gave him the foundation for entrepreneurship, the work ethic to push through challenges, and the confidence to build a business from scratch.   He discusses the evolution of his business from retail arbitrage to wholesale partnerships and training programs, the hurdles he had to overcome, from cash flow struggles to learning to let go and outsource, and why consistency is the key to success in any venture. Whether you're a student entrepreneur or an aspiring business owner, Jimmy's story is packed with lessons on resilience, mindset, and building a business that supports your life.   Thinking about starting an Amazon business? Don't guess, but learn the proven strategies that helped Jimmy scale from scratch. If you've enjoyed this episode of the Leaders Across America podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!   Enjoy! Key takeaways:   How Student Painters set the stage for Jimmy's career and business success Why confidence gained from early challenges carries through to future ventures The evolution from side hustle to a seven-figure Amazon business Why outsourcing and letting go is essential for growth The importance of consistency and following proven processes How to manage cash flow and time effectively while scaling a business Why entrepreneurship can be more stable than a traditional job Practical tips for starting an e-commerce business the right way And much more… Guest Bio: Jimmy Smith is an experienced entrepreneur, Amazon expert, and founder of AskJimmySmith, where he has trained over 10,000 students to build successful Amazon FBA businesses, with more than 1,000 documented success stories. He is the creator of Replen Dashboard, co-author of the Amazon best-selling book Side Hustle to Full Time Income, and the leader of Business Building Legends, a community helping entrepreneurs grow multiple streams of income. Jimmy also co-hosts the daily YouTube show AI Driven Business, where he demonstrates how to leverage AI tools like ChatGPT to build and scale businesses.   Resources   YEAA Website   Leaders Across America   Connect with Steve on LinkedIn   Connect with Jimmy on LinkedIn   AskJimmySmith.com    Books: Side Hustle to Full-Time Income: From $0 to $100k per Month with Retail and Online Arbitrage Disclaimer:   The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Leaders Across America podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.  

What if the biggest advantage you bring to your career isn't your GPA or degree, but the real-world lessons you learned by running a business in college?   In this episode of the Leaders Across America Podcast, Steve Acorn talks with Jacob Brauer, a Michigan State graduate whose four-year journey with the Young Entrepreneurs Program shaped his future in ways no classroom could. From overcoming a speech impediment and the fear of rejection to leading ten branch managers by his senior year, Jacob built resilience, leadership skills, and confidence that carried him far beyond campus.   Now a financial advisor with Edward Jones, Jacob shares how the program gave him the mindset, discipline, and relationships that opened doors early in his career. He explains why age is never a barrier, how trusting the process creates results, and why real-world experience is the best preparation for long-term success.   Looking for an edge beyond your GPA? This episode shows how real-world experience prepares you for opportunities a classroom never could.   If you've enjoyed this episode of the Leaders Across America podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!   Enjoy! Key takeaways:   How Jacob went from a shy freshman to running a $600,000 operation by senior year Why real-world experience beats theory when preparing for a career in business The evolving "why" behind Jacob's journey and why money alone isn't enough The role of relationships and mentorship in surviving challenges and staying motivated How to overcome doubts about being "too young" to lead or be trusted Why discipline, not just motivation, is the key to lasting success Why the program is the best internship for the right person and the worst for the wrong one And much more… Guest Bio: Jacob Brauer is a financial advisor at Edward Jones, where he assists automotive and manufacturing professionals in addressing their money concerns. A graduate of Michigan State University, Jacob spent four years in the Young Entrepreneurs Program, starting as a branch manager and eventually overseeing ten managers across Michigan. His hands-on experience in leadership, sales, and operations gave him the skills to step into a career usually reserved for older professionals. Today, Jacob continues to build his business with the same principles of discipline, resilience, and relationship-building that shaped his student years. Resources   YEAA Website   Leaders Across America   Connect with Jacob on LinkedIn   Follow Jacob on Facebook   EdwardJones.com    Books Mentioned:   The Richest Man in Babylon   Disclaimer:   The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Leaders Across America podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.  

  Ever wondered what happens when a young person steps into the world of business without any experience? In this inspiring episode, host Steve Acorn has a conversation with James George, a former intern with Young Entrepreneurs Across America, who shares his transformation from an uncertain college student into a confident leader.   James dives into the unexpected challenges and powerful lessons he learned while running his own student painting business. From balancing coursework with entrepreneurship to building resilience and mastering time management, his story shows how the right support system and a willingness to grow can change everything.   If you've enjoyed this episode of the Leaders Across America podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!   Enjoy! In This Episode You'll Learn: Why stepping outside your comfort zone is the real catalyst for growth The importance of trusting the process when results aren't immediate How balancing academics and business builds time management skills The mindset shift from checking tasks to taking purposeful action How leadership skills learned early can impact every future career path What it really takes to stay focused despite distractions and uncertainty The value of mentorship when facing problems for the first time Why this internship becomes a lifelong asset, not just a resume booster And much more…     Resources YEAA Website Leaders Across America Connect with James on LinkedIn  

What do you do when the world shuts down 10 days after you launch your dream business?   In today's episode of the Leaders Across America podcast, Steve Acorn catches up with Simon Fraser, a standout leader in the Young Entrepreneurs Across America program back in 2013-2015, and now the founder of Headlamp Studios, a Utah-based video production company. Simon first joined YEAA as a student at Ohio State, running a $60K branch his rookie year and scaling to over $750K in sales as a GM. But this conversation is about what came next—and how he built a business (and a life) from the ground up.   Simon opens up about leaving his job at a video company in Charleston, moving across the country, and launching Headlamp just before the pandemic hit. He shares what it was like to go from freelance survival to leading a team of 15+ contractors, working with brands like Microsoft and Aspen Valley Hospital, and producing documentaries that light him up creatively. He also reflects on how the YEAA program gave him more than skills—it gave him the mindset to keep going when things got hard.   From sharing a Jeep Wrangler with his brother to building a values-first creative agency, Simon's story is packed with practical insight, honesty, and inspiration for anyone trying to create something meaningful on their own terms.   If you've enjoyed this episode of the Leaders Across America podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!   Enjoy! In This Episode You'll Learn: How Simon started over in a new city—and new industry—during COVID Why being scrappy early on taught him to lead with creativity, not ego How he scaled Headlamp Studios while staying true to his values Why entrepreneurship isn't about speed, but about staying in the game The surprising ways the YEAA program still shows up in Simon's business Why self-awareness might be the most important skill you gain in this program Why Simon chose flexibility and fulfillment over fast growth And much more… Guest Bio: Simon Fraser is the founder and CEO of Headlamp Studios, a creative video production company based in Utah. A graduate of the Young Entrepreneurs Across America program, Simon scaled his student painting business to over $240K before joining the YEAA team full-time. After a few years in commercial video, he launched Headlamp Studios in 2020, where he leads a team of contractors and creatives producing ads, brand films, and documentaries for clients like Microsoft, Firestone, and Aspen Valley Hospital. Simon's work has been featured in multiple film festivals, and his company is known for its grassroots, story-first approach.    Resources: YEAA Website Leaders Across America 100 | CEO Steve Acorn Tells His Story Connect with Simon on LinkedIn Headlamp-Studios.com  Disclaimer: The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Leaders Across America podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.  

What happens when you outgrow a traditional job, get a nudge from your grandma, and end up buying a business you once door-knocked as a student painter?   In today's episode of the Leaders Across America podcast, Steve Acorn reconnects with Evan Rose, a 2013 branch manager and 2014 regional manager with Young Entrepreneurs Across America, who went on to become the owner of a thriving custom apparel business. From learning how to lead a team in college to weathering the emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship, Evan shares the pivotal lessons from his student painting days that continue to guide him more than a decade later.   You'll hear how Evan navigated burnout as a recruiter, took a leap of faith to acquire Best Buy Uniforms in Pittsburgh, and used the work ethic and leadership skills honed at YEAA to grow through uncertainty—even during COVID-19. This is a story of ownership in every sense of the word: owning your future, owning your growth, and owning your path—even when you don't feel ready.   If you've enjoyed this episode of the Leaders Across America podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!   Enjoy! In This Episode You'll Learn: Why Evan left a traditional job to buy a business with no industry experience How the YEAA program shaped his mindset more than college ever did The most valuable leadership lesson he still uses today What it's really like to run a small business through a pandemic Why some customers just aren't the right fit—and how to say no How to keep your team motivated even when you're overwhelmed The importance of knowing your limits before they break you Why Evan's YEAA experience still defines his competitive edge And much more… Guest Bio: Evan Rose is a former branch and regional manager in the Young Entrepreneurs Across America program who currently owns and operates Best Buy Uniforms, a custom apparel and promotional products company based in Pittsburgh. After starting his professional journey in third-party recruiting, Evan pivoted into entrepreneurship and acquired the business in 2019 with no prior industry experience. Through challenges like COVID-19 and the daily grind of small business ownership, Evan credits YEAA for helping him build the resilience, self-awareness, and leadership skills that continue to drive his success today.     Resources: YEAA Website Leaders Across America Connect with Evan on LinkedIn Best Buy Uniforms  Contact Evan at evan@bestbuyuniforms.com  Disclaimer: The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Leaders Across America podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.  

What happens when you push past fear and self-doubt to take on a leadership role? In this episode of the Leaders Across America podcast, Steve Acorn sits down with Grace Lemerise, a standout Student Works alumna, to discuss how she transformed her confidence, leadership skills, and career path through the program.   Grace shares how she went from feeling uncertain about entrepreneurship to running a $100,000 business in her rookie year and later overseeing $348,000 in revenue as an executive. She opens up about the skepticism she faced from her university advisors, the resilience it took to push through outside doubt, and how the program helped shape her into a confident leader.   Now working as a Senior SDR at demandDrive, Grace explains how the skills she learned—accountability, persistence, and leadership—continue to drive her success in her career today. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or someone looking to step outside your comfort zone, this episode is packed with valuable lessons on growth and mindset shifts. In This Episode You'll Learn: Why you don't have to have everything figured out to start How mentors and surrounding yourself with the right people accelerate growth Why pushing through fear is a sign you're on the right path How to overcome skepticism and doubt from others when making bold career decisions The power of accountability and mindset shifts in achieving long-term success And much more…     Resources YEAA Website Leaders Across America Connect with Grace on LinkedIn  

What does it really take to scale from six figures as a young entrepreneur to running an eight-figure business—and how do the lessons learned at YEAA can shape that journey?   In today's episode of the Leaders Across America Podcast, Steve Acorn welcomes Chandler Bolt, a successful entrepreneur and proud alumnus of the Young Entrepreneurs Across America program. Chandler shares how his early experiences knocking doors, hiring crews, and learning to follow proven systems became the foundation for building Selfpublishing.com, an industry-leading company helping thousands of authors around the world.   Chandler opens up about his journey from a rookie branch manager to Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, including the milestones, challenges, leadership lessons, and growth strategies that fueled his remarkable success. This episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom on persistence, goal setting, scaling a business, and why mastering the basics during the YEAA program can set you up for life.   If you've enjoyed this episode of the Leaders Across America podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!   Enjoy! In This Episode You'll Learn: Why the fundamentals you master during the YEAA program set the foundation for long-term success How Chandler turned early sales experience into a global brand serving thousands of customers The difference between chasing growth versus building sustainable, profitable businesses How to use goal setting and daily focus to consistently drive results Why resilience and extreme ownership are non-negotiable for future leaders The power of sticking with proven systems instead of reinventing the wheel How YEAA's lessons prepared Chandler to lead, scale, and thrive in business And much more…   Resources: YEAA Website Leaders Across America Chandler's LinkedIn Selfpublishing.com  7-Figure Principles  74 Chandler Bolt | 34 Million In Sales After YEAA Program Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win   

In this episode of the Leaders Across America podcast, Steve Acorn talks with Jacob Zegowitz, a UMass Amherst graduate, who shattered expectations in the Student Painters Management position.   Jacob shares his journey of running a $180,000 business during his first year with the program, earning nearly $40,000 in profit, and how the experience challenged him to grow as a leader. He reflects on how perseverance and grit helped him navigate the ups and downs of running a business, from building a strong preseason marketing strategy to overcoming rejection and leading a motivated team.   Jacob also explains the importance of coachability, time management, and holding himself accountable, emphasizing how these lessons have shaped his success not only in the program but in life. Now, as a full-time mentor with Student Painters, Jacob is dedicated to helping others achieve extraordinary results by following the same principles that drove his success.   This episode is packed with valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs, interns, and anyone striving to achieve personal and professional growth. Enjoy!   In This Episode You'll Learn: Why embracing challenges and setbacks is key to growth How to build and motivate a team that drives results The importance of marketing and a strong preseason effort in scaling success Why grit, resilience, and adaptability are the cornerstones of leadership How Jacob's journey with Student Painters has set the foundation for his future goals And much more…     Resources: YEAA Website Leaders Across America  

Success in the sports industry doesn't happen overnight—it's built through resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to step far outside your comfort zone. In this episode of the Leaders Across America podcast, Steve Acorn welcomes back Jillian Walker for the special "Where Are They Now?" segment.   Jillian, a proud alumna of the Young Entrepreneurs Across America (YEAA) program, has carved an impressive career path in professional sports, transitioning from the Detroit Tigers to the Memphis Grizzlies, then to the Detroit Pistons, and now serving as the Senior Manager of Premium Sales and Service with the Florida Panthers NHL team.   Jillian reflects on how stepping out of her comfort zone, a lesson learned during her time with YEAA, helped her thrive in a male-dominated industry. From moving across the country for leadership roles to leading premium sales during the Panthers' historic Stanley Cup Championship run, Jillian shares valuable lessons in leadership, resilience, and how to build a career that aligns with your passions.   This episode is packed with inspiring insights for anyone ready to chase their dreams and build a fulfilling career, no matter how challenging the path. Enjoy! In This Episode You'll Learn: How stepping out of your comfort zone leads to massive personal and professional growth Why consistency and mindset are critical to long-term success How to navigate and excel as a woman in male-dominated industries The importance of mentoring and supporting others as you grow How Jillian turned her internship experience into a thriving career in professional sports. And much more…   Resources: YEAA Website Leaders Across America 38 | Jillian Walker | How to Set Yourself Apart, Mindset Strategies, and Overcoming Your Biggest Failures  

What drives a college student to break records and lead a six-figure business before graduation? In this episode of the Leaders Across America podcast, Steve Acorn speaks with Ashton Benkert, a junior at Adrian College who shattered Michigan's rookie production record by running a $180,000 business in his first year with the Young Entrepreneurs Across America (YEAA) program.   Ashton shares how his relentless determination, coachability, and focus on building a strong marketing team helped him double the average rookie sales. He opens up about the mindset shifts that fueled his success, the lessons he learned from facing setbacks, and how staying consistent through mental slumps gave him a competitive edge.    Now, Ashton is setting his sights on reaching $250,000 in revenue while mentoring rookie managers to follow in his footsteps. This episode is packed with practical strategies and powerful insights for anyone ready to take on leadership challenges and push beyond their limits. Enjoy! In This Episode You'll Learn: How determination and being coachable are key drivers of success in the YEAA program Why developing and leading a high-performing marketing team is essential for business growth How to stay focused and overcome mental roadblocks when challenges arise The impact of mentorship and collaboration on personal and professional development Why trusting the process is critical to achieving long-term goals And much more…   Resources YEAA Website Leaders Across America  

What does it take to start, grow, and sell a successful business? In this episode of the Leaders Across America podcast, host Steve Acorn welcomes back Andrew Dennison, an alumnus of the Young Entrepreneurs Across America program and now the CEO of Basepath. Andrew shares his incredible journey from running his first business as a student branch manager to co-founding a groundbreaking software company that revolutionized payments for college athletes.   Andrew reflects on how the lessons he learned as a student entrepreneur—including managing challenges, trusting the process, and scaling operations—shaped his approach to business and ultimately led to the sale of his company. This episode is packed with invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs, offering a blueprint for leadership, growth, and resilience. In This Episode You'll Learn: The critical role of learning by doing and the power of mentorship in entrepreneurship. How the fundamentals of running a painting business apply to scaling tech startups. Why trusting the process is essential to achieving long-term success. The importance of ownership in building personal wealth and professional legacy. How networking and alumni connections can open doors to new opportunities. And much more…   Resources: YEAA Website Leaders Across America  

What does it take to excel as a young entrepreneur and leader? On this episode of Leaders Across America, host Steve Acorn speaks with Griffin Workman, a standout participant in the Young Entrepreneurs Across America program. Griffin takes us through his transformative journey from a rookie painter to running a $150,000 business and earning $30,000 in profit—all while balancing the challenges of leadership, team management, and sales.   Griffin shares how his competitive mindset, strategic approach to marketing, and ability to implement incentives for his team helped him achieve extraordinary success. He discusses the importance of buying into the system, leveraging mentorship, and staying focused on your own path despite external doubts. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or looking to sharpen your leadership skills, this episode is packed with actionable insights to inspire and motivate. In This Episode You'll Learn: The critical role of a strong preseason strategy in achieving success How to build trust and inspire your team through incentives and challenges Why time management and an hour-by-hour schedule can set you apart How to stay focused on your goals and block out external noise The power of mentorship and following a proven system to drive results And much more…   Resources: YEAA Website Leaders Across America  

How does a student-athlete balance rigorous commitments while running a six-figure business? In this episode of Leaders Across America, Steve Acorn sits down with Emma LaVelle, a trailblazing participant in the Young Entrepreneurs Across America program. Emma shares her inspiring journey of managing a $120,000 business while excelling as a full-time student athlete and figure skater. Her story showcases the power of discipline, time management, and an unwavering mindset in achieving the extraordinary.   Emma dives into the challenges she faced, from breaking through doubts to mastering leadership and scheduling, all while smashing records in the program. She highlights the importance of mentorship, self-confidence, and stepping out of her comfort zone to unlock her full potential. This episode is a must-listen for anyone striving to achieve their goals while balancing multiple priorities. In This Episode You'll Learn: How Emma broke records while balancing the demands of being a student-athlete The importance of mentorship and mindset in achieving big goals How to plan and schedule effectively for both work and personal success Why stepping out of your comfort zone leads to extraordinary growth Tips for overcoming doubts and building confidence in leadership And much more…   Resources YEAA Website Leaders Across America  

How do you go from zero business experience to smashing state records in just a few summers? In this episode of Leaders Across America, Steve Acorn talks with Adam Pompilius, a standout in the Young Entrepreneurs Across America program and Michigan's all-time sales leader.    Adam shares his journey of becoming Rookie Manager of the Year, managing over $230,000 in sales during a single summer, and transforming his raw potential into real-world success. He discusses the key lessons he's learned about mentorship, time management, and personal growth throughout his three years in the program. From mastering the art of leadership to balancing the grind with having fun, Adam's story is packed with actionable insights and inspiration.    Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur looking to take your first steps or simply curious about the skills and mindset needed to excel in business, this episode offers a wealth of inspiration and practical advice. Adam's journey will leave you feeling motivated, equipped with fresh perspectives, and ready to tackle your own challenges with confidence and determination.   If Adam's story inspired you, share this episode with someone who could benefit from hearing it! Don't forget to follow, rate, and review Leaders Across America to stay updated on more incredible stories of young leaders making their mark. In This Episode You'll Learn: Mentorship plays a huge role in figuring out what works and how to succeed. Effective time management is critical—you only have so much time in a day, so make the most of it Hard work and dedication can lead to extraordinary results Being coachable and learning from those who've walked the path before is essential to growth Having fun, learning, and embracing personal development are key to making the most of the internship experience And much more…   Resources: YEAA Website Leaders Across America  

On today's show, we interview Ashland Stansbury, one of our successful alumni who was part of the Young Entrepreneurs Program back in 2015. She was a freshman at Babson College when she joined our program and she sold over $165,000 that summer, winning the Entrepreneur of the Year award. Today, Ashland is the CEO of Because, a B2B software platform that she founded four years ago upon graduation. In this episode, Ashland is going to talk about the important lessons she learned at YEAA and how this experience helped her in the business she runs today. Ashland is also going to talk about the vision she has for her company and the goal of becoming a billion-dollar organization. She'll discuss challenges she experiences not only during our program but ones that she's faced today as a CEO at Because. She will also talk about how she got funds and fundraising to be able to have a business, will share a very inspirational and detailed story on how she started her business, the mistakes she made along the way and the lessons she took from them and so much more.   Enjoy!   What You Will Learn In This Show: A little bit about Ashland's story and how she got involved into our program. The difference between Student Painters and a regular internship.  The most important keys to success in Ashland's preseason. The best mindset to have in order to achieve success in our program. About Ashland's production schedule that we still use today. How NOT to manage your employees.  About Ashland's business: how she started it, the challenges she had along the way and her goals for the future. And so much more…   Resources: YEAA Website Leaders Across America  

On today's show, we interview Joe Tedesco, one of our successful alumni who joined our program back in 2016 and completed an $81,000 business with a profit of $15,000.    What is unique about Joe's story is that he was the very last intern hired that year (it was early to mid-April) and he had to figure out very quickly how to get started in this business. But he had a very strong mindset that helped him become one of our top managers that year.   For Joe, failure was not an option. He was driven and motivated, even though no one had ever done this before, starting late in mid to late April and running a successful business that was one of the tops in the country.   Today, Joe is a sales manager at Skyline Solar and he is also the owner of Tedesco Painting, an interior restoration company   In this episode, Joe is going to talk about this incredible journey and the lifelong impact this experience had on him.   He will also share how our internship motivated him to stay in college, will talk about how being an underdog was a very powerful motivational tool for him, will share some of the most important lessons he took away from YEAA, will reveal the key secret to becoming the best leader you can be, and so much more.   Enjoy! What You Will Learn In This Show: Joe's experience as an underdog and how he overcame this intimidation. The importance of having a strong mindset in order to succeed.  Some of the most important lessons Joe took away from YEAA. The importance of finding the right mentors to help you on your journey to success. And so much more…   Resources: YEAA Website Leaders Across America