Your Business – Your Next Level

Kristen Christian, co-founder of Bee Organized, joins host Eunicia Peret to talk about turning chaos into clarity—starting with your physical space. A self-described “hot mess” turned professional organizer, Kristen shares how building a nationwide organizing franchise didn’t come from perfection but from the power of small, consistent improvements. She unpacks how clutter impacts sleep, stress, decision-making, and even financial waste—and why every business owner should treat their environment like inventory. Kristen also gets candid about the dance of co-leadership, how failing forward shaped her brand, and why getting out of your own way is often the real key to growth.Key Takeaways:Organization is a journey, not a destination: Give yourself grace and start small to build momentumEveryone has a relationship with their stuff: Emotional ties often block progress more than mess itselfYour space is inventory: Treat your home and office like a store—everything needs a clear homeClutter affects every part of life: Studies show disorganized spaces increase calorie intake and lower sleep qualityThe bedroom is underrated: Starting and ending your day in a peaceful space boosts clarity and productivityFranchising allows for fast learning: Wins and failures from one location can benefit the entire systemFailing forward is required: Mistakes are inevitable—what matters is the lesson and the pivotLetting go unlocks growth: Trying to control every aspect of your business slows down expansionTime is your most valuable asset: Organization helps you protect and maximize your hoursKnow your why: Purpose fuels progress—whether in your home or your businessTimeline Summary:[00:00:00] Welcome and Kristen’s hot-mess-to-franchisor story[00:02:00] How Bee Organized began with a move and a mindset shift[00:04:00] The impact of clutter on focus, peace, and productivity[00:06:00] Encouraging people to accept help and let go of judgment[00:07:00] Life transitions as key motivators for organizing[00:09:00] The magic wand test and why bedrooms often matter most[00:10:00] Failing forward in business and franchising[00:12:00] Learning from missteps and empowering others to do the same[00:14:00] Why Kristen loves the entrepreneurial spirit in franchisees[00:16:00] Data-driven proof of the benefits of organization[00:17:00] Understanding that “organized” doesn’t mean “perfect”[00:19:00] Three rules to staying organized: own less, assign a home, maintain it[00:21:00] Treating your home like a store to avoid waste[00:23:00] Tactical guidance for business owners on time and space[00:25:00] Behind the scenes of co-leading Bee Organized[00:27:00] The biggest lesson: letting go to grow[00:29:00] Final thoughts: Get out of your own way and take actionLinks & Resources:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristenchristian/

Dr. Sarah Matt—surgeon, healthcare strategist, and bestselling author of The Borderless Healthcare Revolution—joins Eunicia Peret for a powerhouse conversation on where healthcare innovation is falling short. Sarah shares why technology alone won’t improve patient outcomes, how broken reimbursement systems are stalling progress, and what investors, founders, and practitioners can do to bridge the gap between innovation and real-world impact. They also unpack how physicians avoid both finances and leadership—and why changing this can unlock better business and clinical outcomes for everyone involved.Key Takeaways:Success in healthcare requires more than tech: Without addressing access, trust, and reimbursement, innovation diesPatient-centered design is often just a buzzword: Startups must understand the real end users—not just what looks good on a pitch deckThere are five pillars of access: Geographic, financial, digital, cultural, and trust/knowledge all impact patient outcomesDoctors often avoid finances altogether: This avoidance leads to missed wealth, both professionally and personallyHealthcare KPIs need a reboot: Traditional metrics don’t account for system-wide ROI or impactGreat care doesn’t always make financial sense: But the hidden financial benefits often come from down-funnel procedures and imagingReimbursement can kill innovation: No matter how good the tech is, if it’s not reimbursed, it won’t scaleBurnout is bleeding the system: Provider quality of life is tied directly to patient outcomes and retentionStakeholder politics matter: Many innovations fail because leaders don’t map influence or navigate internal dynamicsRedefining value is a must: You have to create your own metrics and message them clearly if you want adoptionTimeline Summary:[00:00:00] Sarah’s journey from surgeon to tech executive and author[00:02:00] Why she left surgery to make a bigger impact[00:03:00] The five pillars of access to care explained[00:04:00] The real reasons amazing health tech products fail[00:05:00] Trust, adoption, and the resistance to AI[00:07:00] The physician financial literacy gap[00:08:00] Selling ROI, not innovation, to health systems[00:10:00] Misleading KPIs and how hospitals misunderstand profit centers[00:12:00] How Sarah reframed her relationship with money[00:14:00] Helping patients reduce financial barriers to care[00:16:00] Burnout, retention, and emotional intelligence as new currencies[00:17:00] Global case study: robotic surgery and the reimbursement dilemma[00:20:00] Why reimbursement strategy is non-negotiable[00:22:00] Innovation graveyards and superficial patient-centricity[00:24:00] How founders overlook localization and market realities[00:25:00] Sarah’s biggest failure: ignoring internal politics[00:27:00] Final advice: reimagine your KPIs and own your value messagingLinks & Resources:https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahmattmd/

Allan Draper, serial entrepreneur, investor, and author of Pack Your Lunch, joins Eunicia Peret for a deep dive into the uncomfortable sacrifices required for sustainable business success. From walking away from a top law firm job to becoming “the bug guy” and launching multiple companies, Allan unpacks the mindset shifts, values, and systems that helped him build generational wealth. He shares the lessons behind his biggest business failures, why wealth is more about belief than tactics, and how to avoid sacrificing what matters most on the path to success.Key Takeaways:Success requires sacrifice: But sacrificing the wrong things—like your family or health—can undermine everything you’re buildingYour business should grow without you: Until your business can scale in your absence, you haven’t built a company, just a jobYou need to believe you’re worthy of wealth: Without this, you’ll sabotage your own financial progressDon’t confuse profit with progress: High income doesn’t equal long-term wealth if you don’t know how to manage itPersonal development drives business growth: Your business will never outgrow your mindset or leadership capacitySet boundaries early: Focused imbalance—not perfect balance—is the key to honoring your values while buildingRead more than you talk: Allan credits thousands of books and mentors he’s never met as the real source of his growthKnow your top values: Allan ranks God, family, and mental health above business—then aligns his life accordinglyBad partnerships cost more than failed deals: Relationships must matter more than winningLong-term clarity beats short-term comfort: Success is built by looking 5, 10, 20 years ahead—not chasing today’s urgencyTimeline Summary:[00:00:00] Welcome and introduction to Allan Draper[00:01:00] Allan’s shift from attorney to pest control founder[00:03:00] Walking away from a great job to pursue something greater[00:05:00] The sacrifices no one talks about when starting out[00:07:00] Building businesses without becoming the technician[00:08:00] The importance of hiring and not doing everything yourself[00:09:00] Overview of Pack Your Lunch and its 13 core sacrifices[00:11:00] Living your values: Why family comes before finances[00:13:00] Allan’s 7 categories of life priorities and how he ranks them[00:15:00] Focused imbalance vs the myth of work-life balance[00:17:00] Letting go of being client-facing in pursuit of scale[00:19:00] Why your business will never grow beyond you[00:20:00] The power of personal development and continual learning[00:22:00] The 10 Laws that Govern Money (and Allan’s next book)[00:24:00] Business owners and the dangers of reinvesting everything[00:25:00] The value of diversification—even for high-net-worth founders[00:26:00] Allan’s biggest failure: broken partnerships and missed priorities[00:28:00] Final advice: Choose long-term alignment over short-term emotionLinks & Resources:http://www.linkedin.com/in/allanrdraper

In this return episode, Randy Lorensen joins Eunicia Peret to go deeper into the systems and mindset that have powered his growth as a multi-business entrepreneur. From building Premier Cabinets into a 35-market national brand to launching a podcast and coaching business, Randy shares the behind-the-scenes strategies that helped him step out of operations and into true leadership. He opens up about the difference between revenue and profit, the hidden costs of poor tax planning, and how AI and automation are helping small businesses scale faster than ever. This episode is a roadmap for entrepreneurs ready to move from technician to visionary.Key Takeaways:Revenue doesn’t equal profit: Many business owners celebrate high sales without realizing their margins are brokenMost entrepreneurs overpay in taxes: If you don’t have a proactive tax team, you’re likely giving away tens or hundreds of thousands each yearLicensing creates freedom: Randy shares why licensing, not franchising, became the key to scaling without losing controlSOPs are your freedom plan: Systems and documentation make it possible to build a business that runs without youAI isn’t just for big tech: Randy is building tools that automate communication, quotes, and back-end workflows for everyday contractorsToo many owners still think small: To grow, you must be willing to replace yourself—and stop hoarding tasks you’re not the best atYour CPA may be costing you millions: Traditional accounting focuses on filing, not strategy—know the differenceMindset shifts are required at every level: From solopreneur to multi-entity owner, growth comes from letting go of old habitsTimeline Summary:[00:00:00] Reintroducing Randy and his evolving business portfolio[00:02:00] How Premier Cabinets grew to 35 markets with a licensing model[00:04:00] Why standard operating procedures create freedom[00:06:00] Turning marketing insights into scalable training[00:08:00] Building a backend CRM and automations to support licensees[00:10:00] How small businesses can use AI to improve speed and service[00:12:00] Financial blind spots: why profit margins matter more than revenue[00:14:00] Understanding contractor business economics and missed wealth[00:16:00] Why tax planning is a leadership responsibility[00:18:00] From technician to CEO: how Randy changed his role[00:20:00] Building a business that supports, not controls, your life[00:22:00] Launching Tales of Abundance and helping others break free[00:24:00] Advice for business owners: get your numbers, then get your time backLinks & Resources:https://www.linkedin.com/in/randy-lorensen-8269902a/

In this return episode, Randy Lorensen joins Eunicia Peret to go deeper into the systems and mindset that have powered his growth as a multi-business entrepreneur. From building Premier Cabinets into a 35-market national brand to launching a podcast and coaching business, Randy shares the behind-the-scenes strategies that helped him step out of operations and into true leadership. He opens up about the difference between revenue and profit, the hidden costs of poor tax planning, and how AI and automation are helping small businesses scale faster than ever. This episode is a roadmap for entrepreneurs ready to move from technician to visionary.Key Takeaways:Revenue doesn’t equal profit: Many business owners celebrate high sales without realizing their margins are brokenMost entrepreneurs overpay in taxes: If you don’t have a proactive tax team, you’re likely giving away tens or hundreds of thousands each yearLicensing creates freedom: Randy shares why licensing, not franchising, became the key to scaling without losing controlSOPs are your freedom plan: Systems and documentation make it possible to build a business that runs without youAI isn’t just for big tech: Randy is building tools that automate communication, quotes, and back-end workflows for everyday contractorsToo many owners still think small: To grow, you must be willing to replace yourself—and stop hoarding tasks you’re not the best atYour CPA may be costing you millions: Traditional accounting focuses on filing, not strategy—know the differenceMindset shifts are required at every level: From solopreneur to multi-entity owner, growth comes from letting go of old habitsTimeline Summary:[00:00:00] Reintroducing Randy and his evolving business portfolio[00:02:00] How Premier Cabinets grew to 35 markets with a licensing model[00:04:00] Why standard operating procedures create freedom[00:06:00] Turning marketing insights into scalable training[00:08:00] Building a backend CRM and automations to support licensees[00:10:00] How small businesses can use AI to improve speed and service[00:12:00] Financial blind spots: why profit margins matter more than revenue[00:14:00] Understanding contractor business economics and missed wealth[00:16:00] Why tax planning is a leadership responsibility[00:18:00] From technician to CEO: how Randy changed his role[00:20:00] Building a business that supports, not controls, your life[00:22:00] Launching Tales of Abundance and helping others break free[00:24:00] Advice for business owners: get your numbers, then get your time backLinks & Resources:https://www.linkedin.com/in/randy-lorensen-8269902a/

In this special 100th episode, host Eunicia Peret steps into the spotlight with a solo message reflecting on the biggest lessons from nearly 100 interviews with high-performing entrepreneurs. She shares the four core patterns that consistently show up in business owners who are scaling to multi-seven and eight figures. Drawing from conversations with over 300 entrepreneurs and her own advisory work at Excelstra, Eunicia unpacks the silent struggles leaders face, the blind spots in team building and finances, and why most growth stalls not from a lack of effort—but from a lack of strategic clarity. This episode is both a celebration and a roadmap for building wealth, purpose, and peace as you grow.Key Takeaways:Everyone struggles—even if they don’t show it: Top entrepreneurs admit they still face emotional and strategic battles daily—but they’ve learned to navigate them with purpose.You need the right team—not just loyal people: Team members should go the extra mile, not just make you feel good. People-pleasers may be draining your momentum.Elevate your tribe constantly: Stagnation often comes from staying too long in comfortable masterminds or networks. The next level requires new circles.Your finances may not be as optimized as you think: Most entrepreneurs haven’t updated their tax, advisory, or investment teams in years—and they’re overpaying and underleveraging.Know your exit plan early: Whether you’re building a legacy or planning to sell, defining your path changes how you grow.KPIs should reflect impact, not just numbers: Every team member must understand how their work moves the mission forward—even if they’re not in sales.Stop asking “how”—start asking “who.”: Growth comes from finding the right people, not doing everything yourself.Being “okay” financially isn’t good enough: If your wealth doesn’t energize you, something’s off. Real financial clarity should bring peace, not doubt.Timeline Summary:[00:00:00] Welcome and reflection on 100 episodes[00:01:00] Why this solo episode matters now[00:02:00] Core observation #1: Everyone struggles, even top entrepreneurs[00:04:00] Reconnecting with your “why” in different seasons of life[00:06:00] Defining mission and vision so your team can align[00:07:00] Core observation #2: Do you have the right team—or just people pleasers?[00:08:00] What top performers look for in team members[00:09:00] KPIs aren’t just about sales—they’re about client impact[00:11:00] Core observation #3: Elevate your tribe to avoid stagnation[00:12:00] How to spot when your mastermind or circle no longer challenges you[00:13:00] Evaluating energy: Who’s lifting you up vs. pulling you down[00:14:00] Core observation #4: Finances matter, and “okay” isn’t enough[00:16:00] The quiet financial misalignment plaguing most entrepreneurs[00:17:00] Why asking better questions reveals where you’ve outgrown your team[00:19:00] Ask “who,” not “how” when optimizing financial and strategic growth[00:20:00] Taxes: how many business owners leave 20–40% on the table[00:22:00] Final thoughts: stop settling, start asking, and build wealth with intention[00:25:00] Invitation to listen to top episodes and suggest future topicsLinks & Resources:https://www.linkedin.com/in/euniciaperet/

Richard Gould shares his journey from high school dropout to founder of a thriving national painting franchise with over 25 locations. In this candid conversation, Richard opens up about his early beginnings, the power of mentorship, and how a simple painting gig turned into a lifelong passion and scalable business. He discusses the critical importance of financial literacy, what it really takes to grow a franchise, and how he helps painters evolve into business owners. Richard also dives into the psychological and practical challenges of coaching, leadership, failure, and personal growth—and why the fantasy of success often overshadows the reality of consistent hard work.Key Takeaways:You don’t need formal education to build an empire: Richard’s story proves success can come from grit, mentorship, and smart decision-making.Simplicity is a superpower. Complexity kills momentum: Richard teaches his clients to keep their business models and decisions as simple as possible.Financial mismanagement is the fastest way to fail: Most business owners struggle because they don’t truly understand cash flow, expenses, and profit margins.Coaching only works when clients want to change: Richard shares that true growth begins with a willingness to fail, learn, and take responsibility.Failure is the best teacher: The most transformational moments for his clients—and himself—have come from setbacks and mistakes.Franchise growth demands mindset evolution: Each new level of business requires letting go of control and stepping into new leadership roles.Bad partnerships cost more than money: Richard learned the hard way why contracts matter and why trusting your gut can save your sanity.Your business is only as strong as your financial team: Having the right advisors who offer unbiased advice can make or break a company’s growth.Timeline Summary:0:00 – Richard’s background and how he got started in painting2:00 – The role mentorship played in his growth5:00 – Why financial literacy is non-negotiable8:00 – Social media illusions and fake success10:00 – Coaching clients who resist change13:00 – Why failure is the biggest catalyst for growth17:00 – Internal transformation and confidence20:00 – Franchise scaling mindset and leadership24:00 – Painting skill vs. business acumen27:00 – Industry comparisons and missed opportunities33:00 – Richard’s biggest business mistake and lessons learned37:00 – Final advice for entrepreneursLinks & Resources:https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-gould-b838b157/

In this no-nonsense episode, host Eunicia Peret welcomes Dylan Lincoln, a self-made business growth strategist who climbed the healthcare ladder without a traditional four-year degree. Dylan shares his unconventional journey from aspiring firefighter to hospital executive, breaking down how grit, real-world experience, and execution trump credentials. With a focus on the healthcare industry’s financial stress, physician burnout, and the collapse of rural hospital systems, Dylan offers practical insight into why business acumen is now a must-have for physicians and how true growth stems from collaboration and creative strategy. This conversation is packed with valuable takeaways for both healthcare professionals and business leaders navigating disruption and opportunity.Key Takeaways:Degrees don’t define success: Dylan’s story proves that execution, mindset, and initiative often matter more than formal credentials.Rural hospitals are at critical risk: In Kansas alone, 66 hospitals face possible closure within 90 days, highlighting the need for new care and revenue models.Physicians need business partners: Doctors should focus on patient care while partnering with growth-minded professionals to help scale and sustain practices.Burnout is widespread and dangerous: Physician burnout is rising, and without systemic change, the result will be fewer doctors and less accessible care for patients.Know your contribution margins: Hospitals must lean into profitable service lines and strategically cut or partner on others, especially in tight-margin markets.Collaboration beats competition: Rather than trying to offer every service in-house, smaller hospitals should partner with larger systems for shared wins.Be flexible, hire for hunger: Great employees aren’t always found on paper—look for those with drive, adaptability, and a mindset for growth.Success favors the uncomfortable: Growth requires embracing risk, asking hard questions, and stepping outside the box—even in healthcare.Timeline Summary:[00:00:00] Dylan shares his early career path from EMS to dispatch and product development[00:03:00] How startup experience during COVID led to a corporate-level growth role[00:05:00] Overview of the financial crisis in healthcare, RVU models, and physician challenges[00:07:00] The critical role of business partners in helping doctors grow without burning out[00:09:00] Stark contrast between rural and urban healthcare systems and payer mix impact[00:10:00] Kansas hospitals facing closures and the ripple effect nationwide[00:12:00] Warning against extending services beyond capabilities for the sake of revenue[00:13:00] Strategic partnership examples and the “never punished for your zip code” philosophy[00:14:00] How rural hospitals and larger centers are creating virtual hub-and-spoke models[00:16:00] A discussion on career success without college—why results matter more than degrees[00:18:00] Data on critical thinking growth (or lack thereof) in college students[00:20:00] Why job candidates with real-world experience often outperform degree holders[00:22:00] Hiring advice: look beyond the resume and value hunger over credentials[00:25:00] Final thoughts on building trust, collaboration, and executing for collective wins[00:27:00] Why physicians need to be pushed—and how the right partners make that possibleLinks & Resources:www.linkedin.com/in/dylanlincoln

In this value-packed episode, Eunicia Peret speaks with Renee Fry, CEO and co-founder of Gentreo, the award-winning online estate and life planning platform. With a career spanning government, tech startups, and now fintech, Renee shares how personal experience and professional expertise converged to create a mission-driven company solving a huge gap in estate planning. They dive deep into why planning isn't just for the wealthy, how families can avoid massive legal battles, and the real-life inflection points that demand attention—and action. Renee also offers insight into leading with integrity, the risks of unchecked AI content, and the power of simplifying complex systems for everyday people.Key Takeaways:Estate planning is for everyone: It's not just for the wealthy—everyday families need to prepare for health issues, caretaking, and asset protection.Life moments drive action: Major life events—like births, deaths, illness, or moving—are often when people need to update or start estate planning.Affordability is key to access: Gentreo’s pricing model is built to remove barriers and empower families with complete, affordable legal protection.State-specific laws matter: Estate planning must be tailored to your state’s laws, which frequently change and affect healthcare proxies, wills, and POAs.Digital access saves lives: If no one can find your will or healthcare proxy, it’s as if it doesn’t exist. Secure, shareable access is essential.AI must be fact-checked: While AI can enhance productivity, using it without oversight can disrupt workflows or lead to costly misinformation.Leadership sets the tone: Ethical, thoughtful leadership influences not just your team’s productivity, but their behavior, morale, and culture.Small business owners must lead the way: By ensuring their own estate plans are in place, leaders can guide employees and loved ones to do the same.Timeline Summary:[00:00:00] Introduction to Renee Fry and the founding of Gentreo[00:03:00] Personal stories that inspired a mission to make estate planning accessible[00:05:00] The misunderstanding that estate planning is only for the wealthy[00:06:30] Estate planning’s connection to Alzheimer’s, aging, and family inflection points[00:08:00] How legal battles start when families don’t have documents in place[00:09:00] Top life events that trigger the need for planning[00:11:00] Gentreo’s model for ongoing document updates as life changes[00:13:00] The cost breakdown and how Gentreo is more accessible than attorneys[00:15:00] Importance of digital access and storing documents securely[00:17:00] Creating a full “family plan” that includes children, spouses, and aging parents[00:19:00] Estate planning tips: frequency of review, accessibility, and documentation[00:20:30] Emergency access buttons and real-life caregiver stories[00:22:00] Business lessons from working in government and respecting historical context[00:24:00] Gentreo’s female leadership team built from previous government colleagues[00:25:00] Teaching executive productivity with AI at MIT[00:27:00] Using AI to align meetings and tasks with real goals[00:29:00] Pitfalls of unverified AI content and the ripple effects of poor implementation[00:31:00] Leaders must fact-check and take responsibility for the tools they use[00:33:00] Closing thoughts on ethical leadership and modeling excellence for your teamLinks & Resources:https://www.linkedin.com/in/renee-fry-a4ab133/

In this fast-paced and forward-thinking episode of Your Business, Your Next Level, host Eunicia Peret sits down with Eric Berman, co-founder and CEO of Lil Snack—a web-first gaming company that’s redefining consumer engagement through daily, pop-culture-inspired games. Eric shares how he and his team built a product with half a million monthly users and partnerships with major media platforms, all with less than $8K in marketing spend. From harnessing feedback at scale to thinking differently about AI, distribution, and sustainability, Eric reveals the mindset and strategy behind scaling in 2025 and beyond.Key Takeaways:Move fast and stay visible: In today’s tech landscape, your biggest moat is speed and transparency—build in public and learn as you go.Feedback is a gift: Lil Snack operates on one core value—listen, act, and celebrate feedback from users, partners, and the team.Distribution is everything: Rather than build a new app, Lil Snack puts games inside apps where users already are—like Peacock, Reddit, and BuzzFeed.Make money, not just noise: Forget unicorn dreams. Real businesses focus on revenue, sustainability, and customer relationships.Build with ego-free transparency: The best decisions come from putting aside pride, listening deeply, and staying honest about what works.AI is a tool, not a crutch: Use AI to accelerate creativity and execution, not to replace human connection or originality.Work-life balance is real: When you build with intention, your business can enhance—not consume—your home life.Write your own playbook: The best strategies are authentic, unorthodox, and tailored to your mission. There is no one-size-fits-all path.Timeline Summary:[00:00:00] Eric introduces Lil Snack and its rapid growth without traditional marketing[00:01:30] Building in public and going live before incorporating—why speed wins[00:03:00] From one texted game to half a million players per month[00:04:30] Core company value: feedback is a gift[00:06:00] Expanding to major platforms like Reddit and NBCU through partnerships[00:07:30] Lessons from Hulu and the decline of native app dominance[00:08:30] Web-first strategy enables agility, scalability, and speed[00:10:00] The future of AI and how consumer behavior is already shifting[00:12:00] High-fidelity, AI-supported games created in the browser[00:14:00] Fundraising insights: control the business, play the long game[00:15:30] Study small business fundamentals—revenue beats vanity metrics[00:17:30] The value of staying alive and ready as AI and web tech evolve[00:19:00] Why transparency and stewardship matter more than ever[00:20:30] How Lil Snack uses humans + AI to create new opportunities for creatives[00:23:00] Hiring remote talent with intention, contracts, and mutual respect[00:26:00] Letting references interview the company to ensure cultural alignment[00:29:00] Eric’s biggest regret: moments where work overtook family[00:30:00] The sticker ritual with his daughter and the power of shared purpose[00:32:00] When to fire clients and protect your mental health[00:34:00] Why people—not just product—make or break the business[00:35:00] Final advice: trust your gut, ignore the noise, and write your own playbookLinks & Resources:https://www.linkedin.com/in/lileric/

In this powerful episode, Eunicia Peret sits down with Mike Harvey, founder of The Roof Resource, to explore how radical transparency and customer-first thinking can upend an entire industry. Mike shares how his background in corporate America and a pivotal 48-hour window sparked a mission to disrupt traditional roofing models. With a flat-fee structure, virtual service model, and customer-obsessed approach, he’s bringing truth, clarity, and savings to homeowners across the country. From burning the boats to picking up the sword, Mike’s story is a blueprint for courageous leadership and values-driven entrepreneurship.Key Takeaways:Radical transparency wins trust: Mike's flat-fee model demystifies roofing costs and removes unnecessary markups that hurt consumers.Customer obsession fuels innovation: Treating every homeowner like family has driven The Roof Resource’s success and national expansion.Virtual roofing is possible—and scalable: Mike built a system to quote, manage, and deliver roofing jobs entirely online, with no sales visits.Burn the boat to move forward: True entrepreneurial commitment requires cutting off backup plans and going all-in.Pick up the sword: Embracing full ownership of your business journey leads to unmatched empowerment and accountability.Gratitude is a game-changer: Starting the day with gratitude grounds leaders mentally and emotionally to handle daily business pressures.Clarity is inspiring: Whether with clients or franchisees, setting clear expectations prevents misalignment and drives better outcomes.Believe in yourself, fully: Confidence and internal validation are essential to lead with conviction and take bold, industry-shaping actions.Timeline Summary:[00:00:00] Mike’s corporate background and how a chance opportunity in roofing changed everything[00:02:00] Selling roofs without experience—and realizing the ethical dilemma in markup models[00:04:00] The moment that inspired a flat-fee approach rooted in fairness[00:06:00] Building The Roof Resource from a single job to a multi-state brand[00:08:00] How consumers reacted to a radically different experience[00:10:00] Navigating industry skepticism and proving the model works[00:12:00] The concept of burning the boat—leaving behind comfort and safety[00:14:00] Picking up the sword—owning the risk, growth, and responsibility of entrepreneurship[00:17:00] Letting go of partnerships that no longer align with your mission[00:19:00] Internal vs. external validation and the evolution of leadership intuition[00:22:00] Mike’s biggest entrepreneurial superpower: people and culture[00:24:00] Drowning out the naysayers by staying close to real customer impact[00:26:00] A hard-earned lesson in the power of clearly aligned expectations[00:29:00] How unclear expectations lead to poor outcomes for consumers and teams[00:30:00] Mike’s top leadership practice: beginning each day with gratitudeLinks & Resources:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-harvey-77193225/

In this high-energy episode of Your Business, Your Next Level, host Eunicia Peret sits down with Michael Johnson—visionary speaker, business mentor, and former professional ballroom dancer—to explore the power of human creativity in an AI-driven world. Michael shares his unique story from dance floors to boardrooms, and how his company, Business Choreography, helps entrepreneurs fuse heart, soul, and strategy to scale with impact. With AI advancing rapidly, Michael offers a powerful reminder that authenticity, insight, and personal development remain our most irreplaceable assets. It’s a must-listen for any leader looking to thrive—not just survive—in the new age of innovation.Key Takeaways:AI can’t replace heart and soul: What sets entrepreneurs apart is their lived experience, insight, and emotional intelligence—things AI can’t replicate.Use AI as a partner, not a crutch: Leverage AI to move faster and more efficiently, but never let it replace your human voice and intuition.Cheap knockoffs don’t win: Regurgitated ideas and AI-generated business models lack originality and will be transparent to consumers.Focus drives feelings: What you focus on shapes your perception and experience of the world—especially in uncertain times.Reinvention is a skill: The art of change lies in seeing uncertainty as opportunity and responding with intentional, heart-driven action.Personal development is no longer optional: To navigate the emotional toll of constant innovation and noise, leaders must train their mindset like a muscle.Social media is a circus: Learn to control your inputs—what you consume, focus on, and react to—because they shape your business outcomes.Fall down seven, get up eight: Whether the fall is external or internal, true success comes from the decision to keep rising.Timeline Summary:[00:00:00] Introduction to Michael Johnson, his background, and early entrepreneurial journey[00:02:00] From childhood dance classes to teaching as a teenager and turning pro[00:04:00] Mental challenges, NLP training, and starting a personal development company[00:06:00] The role of AI and why humanity still holds a unique advantage[00:08:00] How to stay relevant by integrating creativity with technology[00:11:00] Training AI to assist your creative voice, not override it[00:13:00] The danger of building businesses based on generic AI content[00:15:00] Metaphor of dancers copying champions—and why it fails[00:17:00] How imitation shows up in business and why it doesn’t work[00:20:00] The illusion of certainty vs. true resilience through mindset[00:22:00] Henry Ford, horsepower, and today’s AI transition[00:25:00] Personal development as the foundation for long-term leadership[00:28:00] Teaching values, reflection, and internal awareness as daily practices[00:30:00] The Wild West of the internet and guarding your personal fortress[00:32:00] A simple values hierarchy exercise anyone can do today[00:34:00] Reflections on regret, growth, and the power of “right now”[00:37:00] The importance of gratitude, presence, and forward motion[00:39:00] Michael’s podcast “Seven Eight” and the mission to inspire resilience[00:41:00] Closing reflections on owning your worth and embracing progressLinks & Resources:https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-johnson-3149151ab/

In this deeply moving episode of Your Business, Your Next Level, host Eunicia Peret sits down with Dr. Eric Kozfkay, a board-certified osteopathic physician specializing in holistic pain and stress management. Dr. Kozfkay shares the story behind his revolutionary treatment model—one that combines ketamine infusions, stellate ganglion blocks, and breathwork to help patients experience long-lasting relief from chronic pain, PTSD, anxiety, and depression. He also reveals how Exponential Health, his West Michigan clinic, is breaking from traditional systems to offer truly personalized care. From military veterans and business executives to patients living with trauma for decades, this episode is a powerful testimony to the healing possible when body, mind, and spirit are treated together.Key Takeaways:Treat the person, not the pain: Dr. Kozfkay’s approach focuses on healing the root emotional and neurological causes—not just masking physical symptoms.The “Trinity” works: Ketamine infusions, stellate ganglion blocks, and breathwork create a powerful system reboot, helping patients achieve clarity and calm.Trauma often underlies chronic conditions: Many patients suffering from pain have unresolved trauma that traditional medicine fails to address.Experience unlocks understanding: For skeptical physicians or patients, firsthand experience of these treatments shifts mindsets and outcomes.Conventional medicine is fragmented: Treating symptoms in isolation misses the bigger picture. A holistic, integrated model leads to better results and lower costs.Anonymity matters: High-functioning individuals, including physicians, often seek privacy and out-of-pocket care to avoid stigma while receiving transformative treatment.Gratitude amplifies healing: Simple practices like breathwork, nature walks, and mindfulness play a vital role in regulating the nervous system and restoring balance.Timeline Summary:[00:00:00] Introduction to Dr. Kozfkay and his background in osteopathic and pain medicine.[00:02:00] His journey from traditional chronic pain care to alternative, holistic solutions.[00:04:00] How ketamine, breathwork, and stellate ganglion blocks became core tools in his practice.[00:06:00] The emotional roots of pain and how releasing trauma improves patient outcomes.[00:08:00] Explanation of the “Trinity” and how all three treatments work together.[00:10:00] Inside Exponential Health: a model for integrative care outside the insurance system.[00:12:00] The physiological science behind breathwork and ketamine-induced neuroplasticity.[00:14:00] Offering anonymous care for executives, physicians, and others seeking privacy.[00:16:00] Safety of ketamine infusions and how patients are monitored and supported.[00:18:00] Benefits for patients with PTSD, Lyme disease, and chronic nervous system overload.[00:20:00] Clarifying the mechanism of stellate ganglion blocks and how they reset stress response.[00:22:00] Why America’s nervous system needs a reboot—and how this protocol could scale.[00:24:00] The power of daily gratitude, nature, and awareness in regulating the body.[00:26:00] Simple nasal therapy for improved oxygenation and healing through breath.[00:28:00] Dr. Kozfkay’s reflections on struggle, gratitude, and how pain can lead to purpose.[00:30:00] His final advice: dance, sing, play—and remember that healing starts with presence.Links & Resources:https://www.linkedin.com/company/expohealth

In this groundbreaking episode of Your Business, Your Next Level, host Eunicia Peret is joined by Dr. Michael Foreit, a second-generation osteopathic physician and international advocate for non-surgical spinal decompression. Dr. Foreit shares the powerful story of how a personal injury led him to discover—and champion—a revolutionary device that’s now helping patients across 55+ countries avoid invasive spinal surgeries and opioid dependence. From patient case studies to the failures of current medical protocols, this episode is a masterclass in innovation, disruption, and truly patient-centered care.Key Takeaways:Non-surgical decompression is changing lives: A groundbreaking alternative to spinal surgery, this method boasts success rates over 90% and is reducing pain and restoring function for thousands globally.The U.S. medical system is slow to adapt: Despite decades of success, the treatment remains underutilized due to outdated protocols, insurance constraints, and surgeon resistance.Steroid injections and ablations are stopgaps: Widely used treatments like epidural steroid injections and nerve ablations offer only temporary relief and often worsen long-term outcomes.Real results come from negative pressure: Devices like the DRX9000 create targeted, pain-free decompression that promotes disc healing and long-term recovery.Surgeons aren’t always incentivized to educate: Dr. Foreit challenges the silence within medical schools and clinical institutions that ignore non-invasive treatments due to lack of testing or reimbursement.Patient outcomes are being sacrificed for profits: Many patients are pushed toward surgeries or lifelong prescriptions, even when safer, proven alternatives exist.Decompression works across demographics: From aging patients to injured truck drivers, Dr. Foreit has seen success in people of all ages, conditions, and work backgrounds.Global adoption is underway: With clinics now opening across the Middle East, Europe, and Asia, this treatment is finally gaining the attention it deserves.Timeline Summary:[00:00:00] Introduction and background on Dr. Foreit’s work in osteopathic care and holistic medicine.[00:02:00] Personal story of spinal injury that led to discovering spinal decompression.[00:04:00] Development of the VAX-D device and early research behind decompression therapy.[00:06:00] Clinical studies confirming 300–400 pounds of negative pressure during treatment.[00:08:00] Resistance from insurance companies and surgical industries to adopt new approaches.[00:10:00] Why steroid injections remain common despite limited effectiveness.[00:13:00] The dangers of ablations and pain stimulators as symptom-masking treatments.[00:17:00] Case examples from Foreit’s own practice treating thousands of patients in Gary, Indiana.[00:19:00] Risks of spinal fusions and the widespread problem of adjacent segment syndrome.[00:22:00] Upcoming triple-blind study at University of South Florida and expected disruptive results.[00:25:00] The importance of conservative, hands-on treatment over invasive care.[00:27:00] Failures in medical school curricula and why future doctors aren’t learning decompression.[00:30:00] MRI results and real-world evidence of disc retraction and pain reduction.[00:33:00] Spinal fusion success rates versus decompression efficacy.[00:35:00] Global expansion: from Kuwait to Prague, Vietnam to Jordan.[00:38:00] Call to action for patients, providers, and employers to rethink spinal care strategies.Links & Resources:https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-foreit-do-304069136/

In this episode of Your Business Your Next Level, I sit down with Kevin Dominik Korte, entrepreneur, investor, and president of Univention North America. From managing teams across continents to navigating open-source software for enterprise IT, Kevin brings a refreshing mix of global perspective and grounded leadership.We discuss what it takes to lead in a high-trust, high-autonomy environment, how distributed teams can actually outperform centralized ones, and why simplicity is a competitive advantage in both tech and management. Kevin also shares his transition from corporate to ownership, how he stays aligned with his team across time zones, and the mindset shifts required when your product is both technical and mission-driven.Key Takeaways:Distributed Teams Can Be More Effective—If You Lead Well: Clear communication, shared goals, and accountability systems make global teams thrive.Ownership Brings Clarity: Kevin’s move into a leadership role brought simplicity and alignment—once he knew what to say no to.Simplicity Wins in Complex Markets: Even in technical industries, Kevin shows that reducing friction and clarifying purpose accelerates results.Global Perspective, Local Action: Managing teams across cultures and time zones gave Kevin new insight into what actually drives performance.Leadership = Clarity + Trust: Kevin believes the best leaders don’t micromanage—they align, empower, and clarify.Timeline Summary:[00:00] - Kevin’s path from global IT to president of Univention North America[03:00] - Building trust and structure in distributed teams[06:00] - Open source in enterprise—balancing complexity and simplicity[08:00] - Why alignment matters more than oversight[10:00] - Leadership lessons from cross-border growth[12:00] - How ownership clarified his role and his goals[14:00] - Final thoughts on growth, trust, and managing with purposeLinks & Resources:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevindkorte/

In this rich and thoughtful episode of Your Business, Your Next Level, host Eunicia Peret talks with Leon Leinbach, serial entrepreneur and founder of Keystone Construction and Blue Jay Garage Doors. Leon shares how his early experiences on a family farm and in metal repair laid the foundation for a life of entrepreneurship. From launching his first company as a teenager to now leading multiple successful businesses, Leon reveals how purpose-driven culture, hiring strategy, and humility have guided his journey. He also unpacks how he’s raising the next generation of leaders—his six daughters—through intentional exposure to business and leadership, even at an early age.Key Takeaways:Start Early and Stay Curious: Leon’s journey began with raising rabbits and fixing farm equipment, building entrepreneurial muscle long before he launched a formal business.Opportunities Create Companies: Both Keystone Construction and Blue Jay Garage Doors were born out of solving problems Leon encountered firsthand.Culture Is Intentional: Weekly culture meetings and consistent reinforcement of core values help Leon’s teams stay aligned and motivated.Integrate Personal Goals into Company Vision: Leon believes company visions should be big enough to support employees’ individual dreams.Fail Fast, Learn Faster: A major hiring misstep taught Leon the hard truth of hiring for integrity and fit before skill—and the importance of acting quickly when it’s not right.Raise Leaders, Not Dependents: Leon’s kids go through a one-year internship after 8th grade to learn real-world business skills, and they must apply for roles just like anyone else.Adapt or Get Left Behind: Business is constantly changing, and success goes to those willing to evolve every three to five years.Timeline Summary:[00:01:00] Leon’s early background on a farm and discovering entrepreneurship as a teenager.[00:03:00] Starting Keystone Construction after managing operations at just 17 years old.[00:04:00] How necessity led to launching Blue Jay Garage Doors.[00:05:00] Raising rabbits, repairing equipment, and learning to invoice and interact with customers.[00:06:00] Early job leadership roles that built the confidence to launch his own company.[00:08:00] Leon’s father didn’t want him to start a business—but still supported him.[00:09:00] Internships for each of Leon’s daughters after 8th grade, working directly with him.[00:11:00] His daughters’ feedback: exposure to real business tasks was eye-opening.[00:13:00] Culture-building through vision alignment and weekly meetings.[00:15:00] The five core values: God, people, humility, growth mindset, and have fun.[00:17:00] Culture meetings include internal presentations tied to values and company issues.[00:20:00] Each business has its own subculture, even if the core values are the same.[00:21:00] Biggest failure: hiring the wrong person, and learning the cost of not addressing it early.[00:23:00] Lessons on matching skillset to role and hiring for integrity first.[00:25:00] Why he values masterminds and business coaches—but only when the coach has real experience.[00:27:00] Recognizing when to move on from a coach who no longer fits the next growth stage.[00:28:00] Choosing masterminds: look for industry-aligned peers just slightly ahead of you.[00:30:00] Final advice: constant adaptation is essential to long-term business success.Links & Resources:https://www.linkedin.com/in/leonleinbach/

In this dynamic episode of Your Business, Your Next Level, host Eunicia Peret sits down with Doug Winston, president of DNM Electrical Contracting, DNM Utility Construction, and Northeast Utility Equipment Repair. Doug brings decades of experience in the utility and skilled trades sector, and his entrepreneurial journey is anything but linear. From residential wiring to storm restoration and building cell towers, Doug has consistently grown by following opportunity and solving inefficiencies. With powerful lessons on leadership, pricing, cash flow, and niche market strategy, Doug’s story is a blueprint for long-term success in contracting and beyond.Key Takeaways:Follow Opportunity, Don’t Fear Change: Doug grew his business by continuously exploring new markets—from gas stations to cell towers to storm recovery.Hire and Keep Good People: Long-tenured employees are the result of trust, flexibility, and doing the right thing even when it’s not required.Know Your Numbers: Business owners must understand real costs, margins, and cash flow—not just rely on accountants or bookkeepers.The Riches Are in the Niches: Competing on price is a race to the bottom; specialization reduces competition and raises perceived value.Cash Flow and Credit Matter: Poor cash management can sink even successful businesses. Strategic use of credit, vendor terms, and banking relationships is critical to survival and scale.Always Have a Plan B: Whether it’s in business or racing, success demands flexibility, backup plans, and exit strategies.Timeline Summary:[00:01:00] Doug’s career roots in residential electrical work and the path to owning his own business.[00:03:00] Pivoting from residential to commercial, then into cell towers and high-voltage utility work.[00:05:00] Storm restoration work begins with Hurricane Katrina—and leads to a new business in equipment repair.[00:06:00] Creating additional revenue streams by solving internal inefficiencies.[00:07:00] Building team loyalty through flexibility and a values-driven culture.[00:08:00] Why understanding pricing and knowing your real costs can’t be outsourced.[00:11:00] Problems with relying solely on accountants or traditional methods like the cash basis of accounting.[00:12:00] Niche markets help eliminate price-based competition and allow for better profitability.[00:14:00] Cash flow strategies: vendor payment terms, line of credit management, and cost-saving techniques.[00:17:00] Growth traps: how to evaluate whether your business is truly ready to take on new work.[00:19:00] Importance of having contingency plans for business moves—and how racing principles apply.[00:21:00] Doug’s biggest financial scare and how it taught him to protect cash and choose the right bank.[00:27:00] Final thoughts on seeking advice, trade associations, and never being the lone wolf in business.Links & Resources:https://www.linkedin.com/in/doug-winston-8311b339/

In this episode of Your Business, Your Next Level, host Eunicia Peret is joined by Mike Fitzpatrick, founder and CEO of NCX Group, a leading cybersecurity consultancy. With over 25 years in cybersecurity and four decades in IT, Mike shares a no-nonsense breakdown of how businesses—especially small and mid-sized ones—are massively underprepared for cyber threats. He covers the evolution of cybersecurity from its infancy to today's AI-fueled threat landscape, the legislative roots of breach law, and how his early methodology became the standard used across industries. Mike also gives a deeply personal look at the emotional toll of cyberattacks, underscoring why cybersecurity is not just a technical problem—it’s a business survival issue.Key Takeaways:Cyber Risk is the #1 Business Risk: Most business owners are unaware of how vulnerable they are, often finding out only after a breach.Secure Your Crown Jewels First: Mike’s methodology starts by identifying what’s most critical and building security from the inside out.AI Has Changed the Game: Generative AI has dramatically increased the effectiveness of phishing and social engineering attacks.Disconnect Between IT and Leadership is Dangerous: Too many CEOs assume IT has security handled—without ever verifying the risk.Education is the Best Defense: From policies to employee training, proactive awareness is the single most cost-effective way to defend against cyberattacks.Timeline Summary:[00:01:00] Mike shares his 40+ year background in IT and the founding of NCX Group.[00:03:00] His early work on cybersecurity legislation with Senators Feinstein and Bono Mack.[00:06:00] Reflections on meeting Steve Jobs, Wozniak, and Bill Gates—and the impact of early tech culture.[00:08:00] How the "people, process, technology" framework shaped modern cybersecurity risk assessment.[00:10:00] The evolution of his Secure24 methodology into what is now the NIST standard.[00:14:00] A real-world case: ransomware shutting down a company for over 30 days, costing millions.[00:17:00] The launch of his CSO advisor program to educate professionals serving CEOs.[00:20:00] Why small businesses are primary targets, not exceptions, in cybersecurity attacks.[00:22:00] How AI-driven phishing campaigns have pushed successful breach rates up to 50%.[00:26:00] The emotional and relational impact of a cyberattack—on families, teams, and business survival.[00:29:00] What business owners must do: policy, training, assessments, and better IT communication.[00:33:00] Mike’s biggest business lesson: misplaced trust and the need to pause before making key decisions.Links & Resources:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ncxgroup/

In this insightful episode of Your Business, Your Next Level, host Eunicia Peret sits down with Kim Ellis, a seasoned entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience in the healthcare industry. Kim shares how she launched her first home care business after a dramatic split with a former employer and built it into a thriving enterprise with over 700 employees. With deep expertise in Medicaid-based care, employee culture, and system innovation, Kim discusses how she’s helped transform the home healthcare landscape—while staying grounded in what matters most: people, service, and adaptability. This episode is packed with tactical insight for business owners in healthcare and beyond.Key Takeaways:Start with What You Know: Kim’s first business move was simply connecting with the clients and employees she already knew, then building from there.Focus on Culture: Creating a supportive environment for employees—through competitive pay, flexible scheduling, and creative incentives—has been essential to long-term success.Be Operationally Proactive: Building a custom software system to streamline compliance and reporting helped Kim’s companies stay ahead of regulatory changes and audits.Prepare Clients and Families: Many people don’t realize in-home care is an option. Agencies must educate the public while ensuring staff are thoroughly vetted and trained.Let Go of Control: One of Kim’s biggest lessons is realizing you can’t change others—only how you show up, respond, and lead.Timeline Summary:[00:01:00] Kim’s background and how she launched her first company out of frustration and necessity.[00:04:00] The early home care market and how Medicaid became a sustainable path.[00:06:00] Misconceptions about in-home care and why many families don’t know it’s an option.[00:08:00] How to evaluate home care agencies—and the difference between licensed and unlicensed providers.[00:10:00] Types of care available in the home, from basic assistance to skilled nursing.[00:11:00] How Kim built a culture that supports single moms, encourages loyalty, and promotes long-term retention.[00:13:00] Navigating low reimbursements and staffing shortages by embracing systems and scale.[00:14:00] Future trends: AI, telehealth, and innovation in patient care delivery.[00:16:00] Staying ahead of regulations by monitoring changes and improving quality proactively.[00:17:00] Kim’s personal and professional lessons on letting go, taking ownership, and growing from failure.[00:19:00] Final advice: Pause, breathe, and deal with problems calmly to gain clarity and avoid costly reactions.Links & Resources:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-ellis-ans/

In this powerful episode of Your Business, Your Next Level, host Eunicia Peret welcomes Lyuda Ksenych, founder and CEO of H2H Movers and Movers Accelerated Growth and Innovation Consulting. Lyuda shares her remarkable journey from arriving in the U.S. with only $400 to building a multi eight-figure business in one of the most notoriously challenging industries—moving and relocation. She dives into the foundational mindset shifts that fueled her success, the gritty realities of operating in a male-dominated field, and how she’s helping elevate the entire moving industry by professionalizing operations and reshaping its reputation.Key Takeaways:Mindset by Me, Not to Me: Shifting from a victim mentality to a leadership mindset was the foundation of Lyuda’s business growth.Know Your Numbers: Underpricing services nearly cost her business its sustainability—clarity on financial goals changed everything.Add Value, Then Raise Prices: Higher pricing demands stronger value delivery—and consumers respect what they invest in.Protect Your Business: Clear client communication, legal safeguards, and proactive customer service systems are essential for avoiding disputes.Know Your Why: True success comes when your business goals align with personal fulfillment—and that starts with understanding your deepest motivators.Timeline Summary:[00:01:00] Lyuda shares her immigration story and how she got started in the moving industry with only $400.[00:03:00] The origin of H2H Movers and the unexpected path to business ownership.[00:06:00] Problems within the moving industry and her mission to raise professional standards.[00:10:00] Advice for consumers on choosing legitimate, trustworthy moving companies.[00:14:00] State-by-state regulation differences and why Illinois is especially strict.[00:15:00] The "to me" vs. "by me" mindset and how it changed her business trajectory.[00:17:00] What it’s like to be a female CEO in a male-dominated field—and how she earned respect.[00:22:00] Systems and communication that protect moving companies from financial abuse.[00:26:00] How real-time check-ins with customers prevent poor outcomes before they escalate.[00:27:00] The cost of undercharging—and how clarity on your financial destination shapes pricing.[00:32:00] Lyuda’s final message on knowing your “why” and how it drives both fulfillment and success.Links & Resources:https://www.linkedin.com/company/h2h-movers-inc/