Claim OwnershipThe Business RoundUp with Melissa Bill
Subscribed: 0Played: 2
Subscribe
© Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
Description
The Business RoundUP (formerly Texas RoundUp)
Hosted by seasoned journalist Melissa Bill, The Business RoundUp explores the pivotal topics shaping local and the broader business landscape today. From groundbreaking innovations to leadership insights and finance trends, this podcast delivers in-depth coverage and engaging interviews with influential figures and newsmakers from across the United States.
✨ Meet the Host:
Melissa Bill
With 16+ years of journalism experience, Melissa Bill has been a trusted voice for major outlets like The Miami Herald and WIOD News Radio. While reporting for The Texas Insider, she focused on business, technology, space, and finance—issues vital to Texans, from the proposed Texas-based stock exchange to the state’s expanding energy industry. A proud graduate of Florida International University, Melissa brings sharp insights and a passion for storytelling to every episode.
📅 Tune in Weekly for fresh perspectives, lively discussions, and a deep dive into the stories that matter most locally, regionally and beyond.
Hosted by seasoned journalist Melissa Bill, The Business RoundUp explores the pivotal topics shaping local and the broader business landscape today. From groundbreaking innovations to leadership insights and finance trends, this podcast delivers in-depth coverage and engaging interviews with influential figures and newsmakers from across the United States.
✨ Meet the Host:
Melissa Bill
With 16+ years of journalism experience, Melissa Bill has been a trusted voice for major outlets like The Miami Herald and WIOD News Radio. While reporting for The Texas Insider, she focused on business, technology, space, and finance—issues vital to Texans, from the proposed Texas-based stock exchange to the state’s expanding energy industry. A proud graduate of Florida International University, Melissa brings sharp insights and a passion for storytelling to every episode.
📅 Tune in Weekly for fresh perspectives, lively discussions, and a deep dive into the stories that matter most locally, regionally and beyond.
106 Episodes
Reverse
What does the future of higher education look like in the age of artificial intelligence?
In this episode, Claremont McKenna College president Hiram Chodosh explores how AI is transforming the learning experience and why integrated, interdisciplinary education is becoming essential for student success. He shares his personal journey into academic leadership and explains how strong mentorship, high expectations, and institutional support can unlock student potential.
Chodosh also breaks down what today’s students need to thrive in an unpredictable job market, from real-world problem-solving skills to adaptive leadership abilities. As industries evolve and career paths become less linear, colleges must rethink how they prepare the next generation.
You’ll learn:
How AI is reshaping higher education
Why interdisciplinary learning is the future
The leadership skills students must develop now
How colleges can prepare graduates for career uncertainty
What the next decade of education may look like
Whether you’re an educator, parent, student, or leader, this conversation offers valuable insight into the rapidly changing world of learning, and how institutions can stay ahead.
In this inspiring episode, Melissa Bill sits down with Julia Brodska, founder of Best Lifing Retreats, bestselling author, and wellness expert, to explore what it truly means to live a healthy, vibrant life in today’s high-stress world.
Julia shares her powerful journey from a difficult childhood to building a global wellness brand dedicated to helping others transform their lives from the inside out. Together, they unpack the science behind stress, aging, and resilience, revealing how intentional lifestyle changes can dramatically impact both personal and professional success.
The conversation dives into the immersive experiences offered through Best Lifing Retreats, where participants often see measurable results — including significant reductions in biological age. Julia explains why health is the foundation for everything we want to achieve and offers practical insights for anyone ready to prioritize longevity, energy, and overall well-being.
Whether you're feeling burned out, striving for peak performance, or simply looking to become your best self, this episode delivers the motivation and knowledge to help you take the next step.
Tune in to learn:
How stress accelerates aging — and what you can do about it
The connection between wellness and professional success
What biological age really means
How transformative retreats can reset your health
Why it’s never too late to redesign your life
Listen and follow for more tips for turning back the hands of time!
In this episode, we sit down with Brooke Lively, Founder of Cathcap Scaling Law, business growth whisperer, author, and trusted advisor, to unpack the financial and operational strategies that help law firms scale with confidence.
Brooke shares her unconventional path into the legal industry and explains why financial clarity is often the missing link between stagnation and sustainable growth. Together, they explore how identifying “friction points” inside a business can unlock efficiency, improve profitability, and strengthen leadership.
The conversation also dives into the rapidly evolving role of artificial intelligence in service-based industries and what firm leaders must understand now to remain competitive.
Brooke breaks down how the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) can transform law firms by aligning teams around a clear vision, attracting the right talent, and fostering a healthy workplace culture that supports long-term success.
Whether you're a law firm partner, entrepreneur, or business leader looking to scale smarter, this episode delivers practical insights you can put into action immediately.
Tune in to learn:
Why financial management is the foundation of growth
How to identify and eliminate operational friction
What AI means for the future of professional services
The core principles of EOS — and why they work
How culture and vision drive high-performing teams
In this episode of Business Roundup, host Melissa Bill sits down with award-winning business success coach and author Erica Carrico to explore her inspiring journey from corporate recruitment to building a multimillion-dollar coaching business rooted in purpose.
Erica opens up about experiencing burnout, navigating serious health challenges, and making the courageous decision to pivot her career toward meaningful, purpose-driven work. She shares how those defining moments led her to help entrepreneurs gain clarity, align their businesses with their values, and create lasting success.
Listeners will also get an inside look at Erica’s book, Awake Your Purpose, which outlines a powerful 28-day framework designed to guide individuals through self-discovery and into aligned entrepreneurship.
If you’re questioning your career path, craving more fulfillment, or ready to step into work that truly matters, this conversation offers both practical insight and powerful inspiration.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
How to recognize when burnout is signaling the need for change
Why purpose is the foundation of sustainable success
What it takes to pivot careers with confidence
The key steps to building an aligned, profitable business
How Erica’s 28-day process can help you uncover your true calling
Learn more about her new Mess To Millions podcast
Follow us and subscribe for additional tips or to suggest future guests or topics!
In this episode of Business Roundup, host Melissa Bill sits down with David King, a coach, speaker, author, and the founder of Freedom Mapping, to explore how entrepreneurs can move from frustration to clarity, purpose, and lasting fulfillment.
Drawing from his transition out of management consulting, David shares why many high-performing professionals struggle with leadership, communication, and emotional awareness despite their technical expertise. He introduces his Freedom Mapping process, a powerful framework designed to help individuals confront their current realities, align with their personal truths, and create a compelling vision for the future.
Melissa and David discuss the importance of mental clarity, emotional well-being, and intentional goal setting across every life domain — including health, mindset, family, and business. David also outlines practical strategies for building supportive environments and taking actionable steps toward meaningful growth.
Whether you're an entrepreneur, business leader, or professional seeking greater direction, this conversation offers actionable insights to help you lead with confidence and design a life aligned with your purpose.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
What Freedom Mapping is and how it transforms goal setting
Why confronting your current reality is essential for growth
How emotional clarity impacts leadership and success
Strategies for creating actionable, purpose-driven goals
The key to balancing professional ambition with personal fulfillment
👉 Perfect for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone ready to gain clarity and take intentional steps toward a more meaningful future.
In this deeply moving episode, host Melissa Bill sits down with William Newton-Wordsworth, a former lawyer who walked away from a high-pressure legal career to pursue a life rooted in faith, sustainability, and purpose. Warnings From The Living God.
William shares the pivotal moment that changed everything—when declining health and a deep sense of unfulfillment forced him to confront a life that looked successful on paper but felt empty in his soul. That turning point sparked years of global exploration, immersing himself in different cultures and spiritual practices, ultimately leading to profound encounters with God that reshaped his beliefs and direction. It also led to him authoring the new book,
Now a sustainable farmer and owner of William River Produce, William explains how those experiences guided him to establish a biodynamic farm in Western Australia, where prayer, spiritual stewardship, and respect for the land are central to daily life. He speaks candidly about the challenges of organic farming, the spiritual battles many people face today, and why purpose—not prestige—is the foundation of a meaningful life.
This conversation is especially powerful for young people feeling lost in their careers, anyone questioning conventional success, or those seeking a deeper connection to faith, nature, and their true calling.
✨ An episode about listening to the call, honoring the land, and choosing purpose over pressure.
In this episode of Business Roundup, host Melissa Bill sits down with Emmy-winning producer Sherry Gunther Shugerman (The Simpsons, Family Guy) and Andrew Pelekis, co-CEO of HEEBOO, a new entertainment venture reimagining how content is built, funded, and sustained.
Sherry reflects on her decades in traditional Hollywood, behind some of television’s most influential animated series of the past three decades, including The Simpsons, Family Guy, Rugrats, Dexter’s Laboratory, and The Powerpuff Girls. Andrew shares his vision for HEEBOO and his transition from finance to entertainment—and why the old model of producing content before building an audience is no longer enough.
Together, they explain HEEBOO's fan-first approach, where creators build engaged communities before production begins, empowering fans to collaborate, invest, and share in a project’s success through tokenized ownership.
The conversation explores:
Why fan engagement matters more than ever in today’s noisy digital landscape
How creators can build authentic, direct relationships with audiences
The role of platforms like TikTok and YouTube in modern franchise building
How tokenization is changing ownership, investment, and creative control
Why HEEBOO aims to become a destination for creators seeking authenticity and sustainability
This episode offers a forward-looking look at the future of entertainment, where community, transparency, and creator empowerment are at the center of franchise building.
In this insightful conversation, executive coach and keynote speaker Steve Baue explores the real challenges leaders face in today’s rapidly changing business landscape. From navigating AI-driven disruption to managing cultural shifts within organizations, Baue emphasizes why authenticity, trust, and clear communication are more critical than ever.
Drawing from his own leadership journey, Baue discusses the gaps in traditional leadership training and why greater self-awareness is essential for modern executives. He breaks down the key qualities of effective leaders, shares practical advice for building trust in times of uncertainty, and highlights the often-overlooked role of self-care in sustaining long-term leadership effectiveness.
This episode is a must-listen for leaders, managers, and entrepreneurs looking to lead with clarity, confidence, and purpose in an era of constant change.
In this episode, Phil Friedman, Founder and CEO of Computer Generated Solutions, one of the fastest growing privately held technology companies in the U.S, joins the show to explore how rapid technological change, especially artificial intelligence, is transforming industries, leadership, and the global workforce.
Phil shares his perspective on the urgent need for reskilling and upskilling as AI reshapes roles across sectors, and how innovative training solutions using AI and immersive technologies are helping organizations future-proof their teams. He also discusses the evolving role of leadership in an AI-driven world, emphasizing adaptability, continuous learning, and human-centered innovation.
The conversation highlights:
How AI is accelerating change across industries
Why reskilling the workforce is critical in the age of automation
The role of AI and immersive technology in modern training programs
How leadership must evolve alongside emerging technologies
Balancing innovation with human impact in AI-driven organizations
Phil Friedman’s vision for CGS and global expansion
Join us as we drive into what the future of work looks like in an AI-powered world!
In the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence, staying ahead of the curve is essential for businesses. In a recent episode of the Business Roundup podcast, host Melissa Bill sat down with Akhil Verghese is the founder and CEO of Krazimo, to discuss his tenure with Google, journey in AI and the transformative impact of technology on business operations. Their conversation sheds light on how AI can be effectively integrated into various sectors, offering valuable insights for companies looking to harness its potential.
Verghese provides insight into:
Meet Aahkhil Verghese, Founder of Krazimo, and hear his journey from working at Google to launching an AI-driven company
How AI is rapidly transforming the way businesses operate and why the pace of change is only accelerating
Inside Krazimo: the company’s mission and approach to solving real-world business problems with AI
Why Krazimo is transitioning from a service-based model to a product-based company and what that shift looks like in practice.
The strategic advantages of starting as a service-based business before building scalable AI products.
Don't miss this episode that dives into key lessons for founders, operators, and teams navigating the next phase of AI adoption.
In this insightful conversation, Dean E. Carter, CEO of Instill AI and author of Employee Experience Design, explores how artificial intelligence is reshaping HR, employee experience, and workplace culture.
Dean shares his journey from senior HR leadership roles to leading an AI company, offering a practical and human-centered perspective on how organizations can responsibly adopt AI.
The discussion dives into how AI-driven real-time feedback can improve team performance, remove mundane tasks from daily workflows, and provide unbiased insights that help leaders make better decisions. Dean also challenges common misconceptions about AI, emphasizing that while AI isn’t a “friend,” it is a powerful source of information that can enhance—not replace—human roles.
This episode also highlights key ideas from Dean’s book, Employee Experience Design, including how companies can measure, design, and improve employee experience to drive engagement, trust, and long-term business success.
Key topics include:
The impact of AI on HR and employee experience
Building trust and transparency with AI initiatives
Using real-time feedback to improve team performance
How AI helps measure and improve workplace culture
Designing better employee experiences for the future of work
Perfect for HR leaders, executives, people managers, and anyone interested in AI, leadership, and the future of work.
In this episode of the Business Roundup, host Melissa Bill interviews Hannah Herbst, the inventor behind Auto TQ and founder of Golden Hour Medical. Hannah discusses her journey into technology, and how she was inspired by her father and a summer engineering camp, which led to a passion towards creating solutions that tackle everyday problems.
The conversation highlights the development of Auto TQ, a user-friendly tourniquet designed to control bleeding in emergency situations, and its impact on first responders and laypeople alike. Hannah shares insights into the importance of bleeding control and her company's future goals.
Takeaways:
Hannah's journey into technology began with her father's encouragement and a summer engineering camp.
Auto TQ is a user-friendly tourniquet designed to control bleeding in emergency situations.
The device is inspired by the simplicity of an AED, making it accessible for laypeople.
Auto TQ is being used by first responders, police departments, and laypeople across various industries.
Hannah emphasizes the importance of bleeding control as the first step in trauma response.
Don't miss this conversation to learn how this technology can help bystanders save the lives of others. Be sure to listen and follow us!
Change is inevitable—but how we respond to it defines our success.
In this episode, Mau Espinosa, a Mexican-born entrepreneur and founder and president of G20, Inc., known for his book "Let It Happen: How to Deal Successfully with Change Through Logic, Emotion, and Tactics", joins the conversation to explore how leaders and professionals can better understand, manage, and thrive through change in both personal and professional settings.
Mao shares why acceptance and resilience are essential leadership skills, and how emotional intelligence plays a critical role in navigating uncertainty.
The discussion also dives into the realities of digital transformation and AI, offering practical insights on why organizations must adopt a proactive mindset to remain competitive. From setting meaningful short-term goals to fostering adaptability and growth, this episode provides actionable guidance for leaders facing constant disruption.
Whether you’re managing a team, building a business, or navigating personal transitions, this conversation will help you lead with clarity, confidence, and purpose in a rapidly changing world.
In this conversation, Brian J. Esposito, CEO of Diamond Lake, discusses the future of decentralized finance and the evolution of tokenization and digital assets. He shares his extensive background in entrepreneurship and finance, emphasizing the importance of ethical leadership and sound management in navigating the crypto landscape.
Brian also addresses the following:
The regulatory environment and the need for innovation while ensuring investor protection.
He outlines Diamond Lake's growth strategy and commitment to building a sustainable and ethical business model in the tokenization space.
The crypto market is still fraught with trust issues among investors.
Ethical leadership is crucial in the tokenization space.
Regulation is necessary but should not stifle innovation.
Investors should focus on companies with strong management.
Join us we discuss the growth and future of digital finance!
In this conversation, Yonatan Levoritz, a prominent family law attorney based in New York City and founder of Levoritz Law Firm discusses the evolving landscape of family law, particularly focusing on divorce, custody battles, and the impact of domestic violence.
Yonatan explains the shift from fault-based to no-fault divorce, the implications for children in custody cases, and the importance of documentation in cases of domestic violence. He also touches upon:
The changing dynamics of family roles, such as the rise of stay-at-home dads.
Practical advice for navigating the legal process of a divorce case.
Navigating child custody and visitation.
Other legal issues that often occur withing divorce cases.
Join us for this insightful conversation as we discuss the different facets of family law.
In this conversation, global thought leader and coach, Oleg Konovalov discusses the challenges of leadership in a chaotic world, emphasizing the importance of clarity, mindset, and the role of AI. He shares insights on how leaders can create a vision, maintain a productive corporate culture, and overcome fears that hinder growth.
Oleg shares the inspiration behind his latest book, Beyond Chaos: How to Create Clarity When Everything Falls Apart, provides practical advice for prioritizing tasks and focusing on people-centric leadership to drive success in any industry. He also touches upon:
Chaos is a norm, but clarity is an everyday achievement.
AI reflects past experiences; we must create the future.
Leadership is about mindset, not just physical work.
Most people are not prepared to think big because they are not prepared to act big.
Fears of failure are often imposed by others, not inherent.
Leaders should focus on a maximum of three priorities.
Creating value for others is essential for success.
People will define processes, not the other way around.
Join us to discover how leaders can move past the noise and find clarity and vision for navigating the future. Follow and listen for more episodes like this one.
In this conversation, John Lex Robinson the Founder and Lead Instructor and Coach at The Viros Group, discusses the evolving landscape of leadership in the age of AI and technology. He emphasizes the need for better leadership skills to navigate the rapid changes brought about by technological advancements.
Robinson shares insights from his book, 'Executive 2.0', which serves as a roadmap for leaders to improve their effectiveness and accountability. He highlights the importance of the following:
Ethics in technology, the necessity of understanding client needs, and practical strategies for enhancing personal performance.
How real leadership involves understanding and communicating with people.
Creating better leaders starts with improving individual performance.
Recovery and mental clarity are essential for effective leadership.
Understanding client needs is crucial for successful product development.
The five pillars of effective leadership and the importance of building trust in the digital age.
Don't miss this deep dive into how fostering trust and transparency is crucial as we forge ahead into greater digital transformation.
In this conversation, K.L. Allen regional vice president at Western Governors University, discusses the shifting priorities of today's learners, emphasizing the need for education to be relevant, flexible, and provide a solid return on investment. He argues that universities must adapt to these changes by functioning more like ecosystems that connect education with employment opportunities in real time.
Allen also touches upon the following:
The traditional approach to education is changing.
Learners today prioritize relevance and flexibility.
Universities face challenges in adapting to new learner needs.
Education must provide a clear return on investment.
The connection between education and employment is crucial.
Universities should act as ecosystems rather than institutions.
Real-time connections between education and job opportunities are essential.
Today's learners are more proactive about their education.
Join us for a forward-thinking conversation about the future of education.
In this conversation, Dr. Hany Demian discusses the innovative approaches of the Biospine Institute in redefining spine care through minimally invasive surgery and the integration of AI technology. He emphasizes the importance of lifestyle factors such as sleep, nutrition, and stress management in maintaining spine health.
Dr. Demian also shares:
His unique journey from car racing to advanced medicine and coming back from his own injury.
He highlights the growth of Biospine with multiple locations in Florida and plans for expansion.
The future in non-invasive spine care and surgery.
How AI will play a role in future spine care.
Surgery should be considered a last resort for spine issues.
Biospine is expanding its reach across Florida and beyond.
The use of stem cells and PRP is advancing pain management.
Don't miss this insightful discussion that highlights how technology is changing patient care a treatment.
The interview features Pedro Rojas Arroyo, founder and CEO of Vivy Tech, discussing his journey from political activism in Venezuela to entrepreneurship in the United States. Pedro shares his experiences growing up in a politically turbulent Venezuela, his passion for societal values, and his transition to business to effect tangible change. During this interview, he emphasizes the following:
The importance of businesses having a social responsibility and describes Vivy Tech's initiatives, including educational funds and projects aimed at financial literacy.
The challenges faced by Venezuela and the potential for change through business and social initiatives.
Why social impact needs to be included within a business plan.
Don't miss this insightful conversation with a company leader looking to forge new avenues in technology, social awareness and impact.
Subscribe, listen and follow us for more interviews like this!
Comments
Download from Google Play
Download from App Store
United States