The Inspectations Podcast

After 47 episodes of inspiring conversations, business insights, and meaningful relationships, we’re closing the book on The Inspectations Podcast,and opening a bold new one with The TAGline Podcast.Originally created to help people “inspect what they expect,” Inspectations became a proving ground for new ideas, tools, and strategies that shaped The Aebli Group’s evolution. It gave us the space to talk with friends, clients, and industry leaders while cementing our business model and voice.But as we grew, so did our audience and direction. It became clear that our original branding no longer fit. We needed a platform that reflected where we are and who we serve today.That’s why we’re excited to introduce The TAGline Podcast, powered by The Aebli Group. Built for B2B leaders, this next chapter is focused on sharing real-world success stories, actionable marketing insights, and lessons learned—the hard way and the smart way. We believe human-to-human marketing is still at the core of business growth, and transparency, expectation-setting, and brand clarity are what separate good from great.Thank you for being part of the journey. We’re just getting started.🎧 Learn more at aebligroup.com🔗 Connect with us on LinkedIn📬 Subscribe to the TAGLine Newsletter for weekly insights

In this episode of The Inspectations Podcast, host Justin Starbird sits down with Hiten Sonpal, CEO of RISE Robotics, to talk about momentum, innovation, and building a movement.From smashing crowdfunding goals to reimagining heavy machinery, RISE Robotics is doing more than building tech; they’re electrifying an industry.Tune in to hear:💸 How RISE Robotics raised over $2 million through retail crowdfunding🚜 Why their tech is replacing traditional hydraulics in heavy equipment👥 How customers are becoming advocates and investors🧠 Hiten's leadership approach during rapid growth and big bets🚀 What’s next for RISE in product launches and partnershipsIf you’re into innovation, entrepreneurship, or just want to hear how a robotics company is reshaping the future, this one’s for you.🎧 Hit play to hear how RISE Robotics is redefining motion, transforming heavy machinery with clean, electric actuators, and reshaping the future of industrial innovation.

In this episode of The Inspectations Podcast, host Justin Starbird sits down with Bob Spurlock, founder of The Spurlock Group and Cerveza Bros. Bob shares his journey from working at Dunn & Bradstreet to launching his own successful M&A consultancy, helping business owners navigate the complex process of selling their companies.They dive into what buyers are looking for today, the importance of clean financials, and the often-overlooked reality of business valuation. Bob also opens up about his philanthropic efforts through the MCHS Alumni and Friends Scholarship Foundation and his entrepreneurial passion project, Cerveza Brothers.Whether you're a business owner considering a sale or simply looking for insights on building lasting impact through business, this episode offers a candid and inspiring conversation you won’t want to miss.

In this episode of the Inspectations Podcast, host Justin Starbird sits down with Pat Longworth, Managing Partner of the Kodiak Group and founder of SalesOptyx, for an in-depth conversation on how B2B companies can thrive in the face of change. Pat shares how his team helps businesses navigate transformations, such as mergers and acquisitions, with custom sales playbooks, outcome-based strategies, and AI-driven tools.They dive into the importance of replicating top performers, building business cases to close deals, and leveraging data for more thoughtful decision-making. Plus, hear how "boring industries" are embracing AI to drive productivity, and why a human-first approach to sales still wins the day.If you're leading a B2B company through uncertain times, you won't want to miss Pat's insights on turning complexity into growth opportunities.Listen Now!

In this episode of the Inspectations podcast, host Justin Starbird sits down with Hiten Sonpal, President of RISE Robotics, to dive deep into the revolutionary potential of fluid-free actuation technology. Together, they explore how RISE’s breakthrough actuator system is reshaping the landscape of heavy machinery—making it cleaner, more efficient, and ultimately more sustainable.Hiten breaks down how traditional hydraulics, long relied upon in construction, logistics, and defense industries, are becoming a bottleneck in the global push toward electrification. Enter RISE: with a 75% efficient system that captures energy during movement and transforms it into reusable power, they’re not just replacing hydraulics—they’re redefining what's possible! The conversation highlights how RISE actuators—featuring built-in diagnostics, natural shock load handling, and compliance-friendly components—are a game-changer for OEMs and end users alike. From ports on the U.S. coasts to mining operations in Australia, the demand for zero-emission solutions is growing, and RISE is primed to deliver.Hiten also gives listeners a glimpse into the company’s momentum, from a top-performing Wefunder campaign to the upcoming launch of a new developer kit and the highly anticipated liftgate pilot. Most exciting of all? RISE’s mission to reduce costs, boost productivity, and leave the world a cleaner, wealthier place through smarter engineering.Whether you’re an industry insider, investor, or sustainability enthusiast, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of heavy machinery and the electrification revolution.

Most people think of Mailchimp as just another email tool, right? But what if we told you it's secretly one of the most powerful—and underrated—weapons in B2B marketing?In this episode of the Inspectations podcast, host Justin Starbird, CEO of The Aebli Group, sits down with Mailchimp’s own William Howard, Partner Development Associate, to reveal how businesses can stop sending generic emails and start driving real results with smarter, more strategic campaigns.If your emails feel like they're just vanishing into the ether, or if your marketing automation seems more complicated than it should be, then this episode is exactly what you need.We’re tackling the big questions, like:❓ How can B2B companies use Mailchimp beyond just sending newsletters?❓ What automation hacks can nurture leads without annoying them?❓ How does Mailchimp measure up against pricey platforms like HubSpot and Salesforce?And that’s not all—we’ll share actionable strategies to help you unlock Mailchimp’s full potential for your business without blowing your budget or completely overhauling your entire marketing setup.Ready to take your B2B email marketing to new heights? Hit play on "Not Your Average Email: How Mailchimp Amplifies Your B2B Strategy" and get the insider tips you need to make it happen!

Selling a business is both an art and a science. While 80% of businesses never sell, what separates the successful deals from the ones that fall through!? In this episode, Justin Starbird, CEO of The Aebli Group speaks with Eric Gilboord, founder of Sell Your Business 4 More, about what it really takes to sell a company—and sell it well. Key Takeaways: 📍Why marketing plays a crucial role in finding the right buyer and seller. 📍The criteria that make a business attractive to buyers, from strong leadership teams to stellar customer service. 📍The hidden value drivers owners often overlook, such as intellectual property and operational efficiency. 📍How to ensure a smooth transition, making your business more appealing to investors. 📍The importance of preparing for due diligence and how to avoid last-minute deal collapses. If you're a business owner considering an exit—or an entrepreneur looking to acquire—this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you navigate the process successfully! 🎧 Tune in now!

Business leaders in the MedTech space, are you ready to transform your innovative ideas into life-changing medical devices!? Join us on the Inspectations podcast as we sit down with Robert Austring, a seasoned expert with over 45 years of experience in the medical device industry! In this episode, Robert shares his proven "Roadmap to Product Commercialization," a strategic framework designed to guide you through the complexities of the medical device landscape. From securing funding and navigating regulatory hurdles to managing the iterative development process and launching your product successfully, Robert's insights will equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to achieve your business goals. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable advice and real-world examples to help you navigate the path to success. Tune in and discover how to turn your medical device vision into a reality!

Discover how to lead your business into the future with confidence and clarity! In this episode, Andrea Brown, author of, "A Business That Works for You: Leading with Strategy and Creativity" and strategic growth advisor shares actionable strategies and insights tailored for business leaders looking to create sustainable growth. Tune in to learn: 📍The shift from day-to-day operations to strategic leadership: Why it’s essential and how to make it happen. 📍Proven methods to assess your business’s current performance: Identify what’s working and where to improve. 📍How to refine your brand vision: Align your goals with your team's efforts for greater impact. 📍The power of innovation and collaboration: Foster a culture that embraces new ideas and teamwork. 📍Steps to build a business that works for you and your team: Not just today but for the long haul. 📍Practical tools for navigating every phase of business growth: From startup to scaling and beyond. Whether you’re looking to gain a fresh perspective, refine your strategies, or inspire your team, this episode equips you with the insights to lead with assurance and purpose!

Scaling a business and eventually selling it are milestones many entrepreneurs aspire to, but the journey is rarely a straight path. In this episode of Inspectations, Rick Greenwald, founder of Simbex and current CEO of Bionic Skins™, shares invaluable insights on how to: 📍Scale for long-term growth 📍Position your business for a successful sale 📍Maintain company culture and values during the transition Rick takes us through his five-year journey of building Simbex, focusing on more than just revenue growth. He emphasizes: 📍Creating a strong operational foundation 📍Building a cohesive company culture He also discusses how: 📍Early strategic planning sets the stage for success 📍Understanding your goals and knowing what you want from a sale is crucial 📍Choosing the right buyer makes all the difference in your business’s future As a leader who valued self-awareness and team collaboration, Rick highlights: 📍Trusting your team to execute your vision 📍Prioritizing long-term growth over short-term profits 📍Maintaining company culture during the sale process Whether you're in the early stages of scaling or thinking about your exit strategy, Rick’s insights are essential for: 📍Building sustainable growth 📍Positioning your business for a successful sale 📍Leaving a lasting legacy 🎧 Listen now to hear Rick's expert advice on how to scale, sell, and sustain your business—while preserving its heart and soul.

In a world where extroverted traits are often praised, introverted leaders bring a unique and powerful perspective to the table. Join our host as they dive into what it means to lead authentically as an introvert and discover the strengths introverted leaders can offer. Our guest, Sharissa Deppen, shares practical coaching strategies and valuable insights into transforming from a manager to a true leader who inspires and empowers. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: 📍The distinct differences between managing tasks and leading people with vision and empathy 📍Why introversion is an asset in leadership—and how to leverage quiet strengths Key skills that separate leaders from managers, including: 📍Visionary thinking for long-term impact 📍Emotional intelligence to foster team trust and resilience 📍Empowerment strategies to encourage autonomy and creativity 📍Proven coaching techniques to help introverts gain confidence and navigate extroverted environments without sacrificing authenticity 📍Tips on embracing a people-centric approach that turns managers into transformative leaders Tune in to learn how introverted leaders can unlock their full potential and create lasting impact—without needing to change who they are.

On this episode of the Inspectations podcast, Jeff Carr, CEO of BrainTemp, offers a compelling look at how precision, persistence, and strategic patience drive success in high-stakes industries. Carr shares the journey behind BrainTemp’s development of the first-ever FDA-cleared, non-invasive brain temperature monitoring device—a game-changer for neonatal care. For business leaders, this conversation reveals critical lessons about how the principle of "inspecting what you expect" can be applied across any industry to ensure that innovation is not just an idea, but a successful execution. From navigating regulatory challenges to building a team with unwavering commitment, Carr provides valuable insights on the leadership traits necessary to turn disruptive ideas into market-ready realities. Key Takeaways for Business Leaders: 📍Relentless Execution: Carr highlights how monitoring progress closely at every step is essential to ensure that your vision is realized with precision. 📍Leadership in Innovation: The journey from concept to FDA clearance shows how patience and resilience are crucial for long-term success in any industry. 📍Building the Right Team: Success requires more than a great idea—it depends on assembling a team that shares your vision and works relentlessly toward it. 📍High-Stakes Decision-Making: In industries like MedTech, decisions can have life-or-death implications, making precision and execution paramount. Tune in today for valuable leadership insights from a CEO who has navigated one of the most complex and regulated industries to bring innovation to life!

Join host Will Cobb as he sits down with Justin Starbird, CEO of The Aebli Group, to dive into a concept Justin refers to as "The Second New Year." Coined to mark the post-Labor Day period, this time of year serves as a critical moment for businesses to reassess their goals, realign strategies, and sprint toward year-end objectives. Justin shares how businesses—particularly mid-sized and larger companies—often face a realization after summer vacations that they have only a few months left to meet fiscal targets. With holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas on the horizon, the window for hitting those goals shrinks rapidly. During this period, companies must review the progress they've made so far and adjust tactics to finish the year strong. Key topics discussed include: 📍The Second New Year: How Labor Day symbolizes a reset point for businesses to evaluate their annual goals and prepare for the final stretch of the year. 📍Goal Evaluation: Whether companies are on track or need to pivot, this is the time to either capitalize on momentum or troubleshoot underperformance. 📍Last-Minute Projects: Many businesses reach out to TAG for one-off projects like website revamps, lead magnets, and marketing campaigns to use remaining budgets before year-end. 📍Budgets and Procurement: Justin explains how many companies adopt a "use it or lose it" mindset with leftover budgets, leading to opportunities for agencies to offer additional services like video production or content audits. 📍Small Business vs. Larger Business Approaches: While small businesses may use this period for strategic reflection, larger businesses often undergo operational evaluations and prepare budgets for the next fiscal year. 📍Maximizing Marketing Efforts: TAG's approach to working collaboratively with businesses to amplify what's already working rather than overhauling strategies that are successful. This episode is packed with valuable insights for business leaders looking to navigate the challenges of year-end planning while positioning their companies for long-term success!

In this insightful episode, host Justin Starbird speaks with Lauren Moore, Conference Director at Informa Markets Engineering, about the strategies and best practices for making the most of trade shows like the upcoming MD&M West. Lauren shares valuable advice for exhibitors, sponsors, and attendees, along with discussing exciting new developments in the industry, including innovation and sustainability. Key Takeaways: 📌 Preparation is crucial: Exhibitors should start planning and aligning with company goals well in advance, as early as 20-25 weeks before the show. 📌 Interactive engagement matters: Successful booths attract attention through interactive experiences that go beyond giveaways—engagement is key to standing out. 📌 Importance of in-person connections: Trade shows offer a unique opportunity for team building, collaboration, and internal learning that can't always be replicated in remote settings. 📌 Bring the right team: Lauren and Justin emphasize bringing not just sales staff, but engineers or other team members to help foster internal relationships and provide expert insights. 📌 Plan your experience as an attendee: From networking to education, having clear goals and leveraging tools like the My Show Planner app can help attendees maximize their time. 📌 Community building is vital: Trade shows are evolving to support niche groups within industries, offering networking opportunities for women, startups, and people of color. As trade shows continue to evolve, they remain a powerful platform for connection, innovation, and growth. Whether you're an exhibitor aiming to elevate your brand, an attendee looking to expand your knowledge, or a team seeking opportunities for collaboration, thoughtful preparation and engagement can make all the difference. Lauren Moore's insights remind us that the value of trade shows goes beyond business transactions—it's about fostering relationships, embracing innovation, and being part of a larger community that drives the industry forward.

In this episode of the Inspectations podcast, host Justin Starbird sits down with Gerri Knilans, the CEO of Trade Press Services, for her second appearance on the show. Gerri brings over 30 years of experience in B2B marketing and shares valuable insights into the ever-evolving relationship between sales and marketing. This episode dives deep into how businesses can leverage strategic content development, media outreach, and effective communication to foster growth, strengthen client relationships, and stay ahead in today’s competitive market. Gerri highlights the importance of a well-rounded marketing plan and offers actionable advice for business leaders who are seeking to refine their marketing strategies. Whether you're a CEO, marketing executive, or sales professional, this episode provides essential takeaways for enhancing your approach to marketing and achieving long-term success. Key discussion points include: 📍The critical connection between marketing and sales for driving business growth 📍How to develop meaningful, strategic content that supports the sales process 📍The importance of frequent, high-quality communication with target audiences 📍Media outreach strategies for increasing brand visibility and engagement 📍Overcoming obstacles in B2B marketing, including budget constraints and shifting buyer behavior 📍The growing role of technology, including AI, in shaping marketing strategies 📍Opportunities for businesses to expand into global markets and refresh outdated content Tune in to gain practical tips and fresh perspectives that will help you elevate your marketing efforts and push your business forward!

Join us for a compelling episode of the "Inspectations" podcast, where host Justin Starbird, CEO of The Aebli Group, sits down with Jeff Chu, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Features Capital. In this episode, Jeff shares his vast experience in investment banking, venture capital, and tactical technology, offering invaluable insights for business leaders. What You'll Learn: 📌 Building a Positive Organizational Culture: Discover the key elements that contribute to a thriving workplace and how to foster a culture that drives success. 📌 Leveraging Cutting-Edge Technology: Learn how to harness the power of the latest technological advancements to stay ahead in the competitive business landscape. 📌 Navigating Modern Business Challenges: Gain practical strategies for overcoming obstacles and turning challenges into opportunities. 📌 Leading with Purpose: Understand the importance of purposeful leadership and how to inspire and motivate your team to achieve their best. 📌 Positioning for Long-Term Growth: Get actionable advice on how to strategically position your company for sustained growth and success. Why Listen? 📌 Expert Insights: Jeff Chu's extensive background provides a wealth of knowledge and real-world examples that can help you make informed decisions. 📌 Practical Strategies: The episode offers a roadmap filled with actionable steps you can implement in your business right away. 📌 Inspiring Conversation: Enjoy an engaging and thought-provoking discussion that will leave you motivated and equipped to tackle your business challenges. Tune in now and transform your approach to leadership for business growth!

In today's competitive business landscape, the old adage "keep your friends close and your enemies closer" is taking on a new meaning! In this episode, Matt Wollersheim of Straight North joins us to explore the transformative power of partnerships, especially among competitors. We explore how businesses that once saw each other as rivals are now joining forces to innovate, share resources, and stay ahead of industry trends. Join us as we discuss the real-world benefits of strategic alliances, from accessing cutting-edge technologies to adapting to emerging market dynamics. You'll hear how embracing collaboration over competition can lead to exponential growth, ensuring your business not only survives but thrives in an ever-evolving market. Tune in to discover why, in today's world, a rising tide truly does lift all boats—and how you can leverage this philosophy to propel your business to new heights!

Are you ready to uncover the secrets of long-term business success!? In the latest episode of the Inspectations podcast, host Justin Starbird sits down with Gerri Knilans, President and Founder of Trade Press Services. With nearly three decades of experience in the ever-evolving world of marketing and publishing, Gerri shares her incredible journey and offers invaluable insights for business leaders. Tune in to hear how Gerri transformed Trade Press Services from a niche article-writing firm into a comprehensive marketing powerhouse. Discover the strategies she employed to navigate the digital revolution, the rise of AI, and the diversification of her service offerings. Gerri also dives into the importance of maintaining integrity in the age of AI, building and retaining a talented team, and planning for the future. Whether you're a seasoned business leader or just starting out, this episode offers valuable lessons on navigating change, diversifying your offerings, and planning for the future. Tune in to gain inspiration and actionable advice from a true industry veteran!

On this insightful episode of Inspectations with Spencer Krause, President and CEO of SKA Robotics we explore the critical topic of strategic planning and preparedness amidst economic and political uncertainties. Join host Justin Starbird, CEO of The Aebli Group and Spencer, as they share invaluable insights on how businesses can navigate the complexities of today's ever-changing landscape. Through engaging discussions and real-world examples, Spencer explores the importance of developing flexible strategies that allow organizations to adapt and thrive regardless of external conditions. Discover practical tips and innovative approaches to strategic planning that can help your business stay ahead of the curve! Tune in to "Leadership Strategies for Future Growth with Spencer Krause" and learn how to turn uncertainty into opportunity, ensuring your business's resilience and success in any climate! #business #strategy #leadership #tips #news #growth #success

Mark Sponseller, CEO and Managing Principal of The Morningside Group, recently joined host Justin Starbird to discuss effective business leadership in turbulent times. Key takeaways presented as actionable tips for business leaders include: 📍 Embrace Decisiveness: In times of uncertainty, decisive leadership is crucial. Avoid analysis paralysis and make timely decisions aligned with your strategic objectives. Decisiveness instills confidence in your team and fosters a culture of action and progress. 📍 Prioritize Strategic Thinking: Strategic thinking involves looking beyond immediate challenges and envisioning the long-term trajectory of your business. Allocate resources strategically, considering the broader impact on business sustainability and growth. 📍 Adaptability is Key: Business landscapes are dynamic, requiring leaders to adapt to changing circumstances swiftly. Cultivate a mindset of adaptability within your organization, encouraging flexibility and innovation in response to market shifts. 📍 Beware of Short-Term Thinking: While short-term gains may offer immediate gratification, prioritize long-term strategic planning for sustained success. Neglecting long-term strategy can lead to challenges in marketing effectiveness, resource allocation, and overall business sustainability. 📍 Foster Talent-Driven Culture: Attract and retain top talent by aligning hiring decisions with business goals and client needs. Building a talent-driven organization enhances innovation, productivity, and competitive advantage in the market. 📍 Emphasize Clarity in Decision-Making: Ensure clarity in decision-making processes by aligning actions with strategic objectives and desired outcomes. Avoid reactive decision-making and indecision, which can impede progress and hinder organizational growth. 📍 Chart a Course for Growth and Expansion: Identify market opportunities and scale operations effectively by leveraging strategic insights and talent acquisition strategies. Continuously evaluate growth trajectories and adapt strategies to capitalize on emerging trends and opportunities. Effective business leadership requires a combination of decisiveness, strategic thinking, and adaptability. By embracing these qualities business leaders can navigate turbulent times with confidence and chart a course for sustainable growth and success! #business #leader #leadership #ceo #marketing #growth #success