The Achieve Podcast

In this episode of the Achieve Podcast, host Jessie Warner sits down with Trevor Maddux, CEO of Cranston and entrepreneur in the home services and software space, to discuss building a scalable handyman and remodeling business and the challenges of innovating in a fragmented industry.What You’ll Learn:Why the residential remodeling and handyman industry presents a major opportunity for innovation despite repeated failed attempts by othersHow Trevor identified a real market gap through firsthand frustration as a customer hiring contractorsThe importance of demand testing and validating a business idea before fully committingWhat the early stages of building a service business actually look like, including operational failures and financial lossesHow leveraging other income streams can provide the runway needed to figure out a new business modelWhy systems, processes, and mentorship are critical to scaling in operationally complex industriesThe challenges of standardizing and scaling a traditionally inconsistent, labor-driven service categoryWhy persistence, patience, and a long-term mindset are essential when solving difficult, worthwhile problemsTrevor Maddux’s journey highlights the realities of building something new in an industry that resists standardization. From early chaos and significant financial losses to gradually refining systems and processes, his story underscores the importance of resilience, learning from others, and staying committed to solving meaningful problems. Ultimately, success came not from having all the answers upfront, but from continuously iterating and refusing to quit when progress felt uncertain.To learn more about Trevor Maddux and his work, visit cransten.com or motionops.com.

In this episode, host Taylor Baker speaks with Tyler Hernandez, CEO and co-founder of Tint Technologies, about innovating smart glass solutions and transforming how we interact with everyday surfaces through electronically tintable materials.What You’ll LearnHow application-driven innovation can lead to practical, real-world impact in emerging technologiesThe vision behind turning every transparent surface into a dynamic, tintable interfaceWhy focusing on niche industries can create strong competitive advantages and market leadershipThe role of scientific research, particularly in chemistry and materials science, in driving product innovationHow energy efficiency and sustainability are key drivers in the development of smart glass technologiesThe importance of bridging the gap between academic research and commercial applicationsChallenges and opportunities in bringing deep tech products to marketHow entrepreneurs can align technical expertise with customer needs to build scalable solutionsTyler Hernandez’s journey highlights the power of combining scientific rigor with entrepreneurial vision to solve practical problems. By reimagining how glass and transparent surfaces function, Tint Technologies is not only improving energy efficiency but also opening new possibilities across industries. The conversation underscores that meaningful innovation often comes from applying advanced research to everyday use cases, creating solutions that are both impactful and scalable.To learn more about Tyler Hernandez and their work, visit tint.io

In this episode, host Stephen Bunker speaks with Scott, co-founder and CEO of Bliss Divorce, about how AI is transforming the divorce process by reducing conflict, cost, and complexity. The conversation explores the challenges of bringing an innovative, high-trust product to market and the lessons learned in bridging technology with deeply human experiences.What You’ll LearnWhy the biggest problem in divorce isn’t paperwork, but getting two people to reach agreement under emotional stressHow algorithmic AI can effectively find fair middle ground in high-stakes negotiations like asset division and custodyThe importance of product-market fit validation, and why strong demand doesn’t guarantee conversionHow consumer psychology and trust barriers can slow adoption of disruptive solutions, especially in sensitive industriesThe key differences between corporate marketing and startup marketing, and why expertise doesn’t always transferWhy reducing emotional conflict can be a stronger value proposition than saving time or moneyHow generative AI enhances user experience through guided support, while requiring careful guardrails in regulated spacesThe role of humility and adaptability in building a startup, especially when entering unfamiliar territoryThis conversation highlights how innovation in traditionally rigid industries requires not just strong technology, but a deep understanding of human behavior, trust, and decision-making. Scott’s journey underscores that even with a highly effective solution, success depends on aligning product, messaging, and user psychology, especially when the stakes are both financial and emotional.To learn more about Scott and their work, visit blissdivorce.com.

In this episode, host Steven Bunker speaks with Bryan, CEO of Advantage Technologies, about building a resilient IT services company and navigating the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, AI, and small business technology. Brian shares insights from over 25 years of growth, focusing on leadership, financial discipline, and the importance of human-centered service.What You’ll LearnWhy defining what your business does and what it doesn’t do, is critical for sustainable growthHow financial discipline, including staying debt-free and building cash reserves, creates long-term resilienceThe role of cybersecurity as a non-negotiable “permission to play” in modern IT servicesWhy AI raises the baseline of performance but does not create true competitive differentiationHow prioritizing human-to-human relationships can outperform automation-heavy strategiesThe hidden costs of overcomplicating tech stacks and the value of simplifying systemsHow market uncertainty and rapid technological change are impacting small business decision-makingKey leadership lessons, including hiring deliberately, adapting continuously, and knowing your value in the marketBrian’s journey highlights that long-term success in business is less about chasing every new trend and more about disciplined execution, adaptability, and staying grounded in core principles. As technology evolves rapidly, companies that focus on simplicity, financial strength, and authentic relationships will be best positioned to thrive.To learn more about Brian and their work, visit ADV-tech.com.

In this episode, host Steven Bunker speaks with Ted, founder and CEO of Valere, a fintech advisory firm, about the evolution of financial technology, the rise of agentic commerce, and how businesses can navigate an increasingly complex payments ecosystem. The conversation centers on how fintech innovation, regulatory dynamics, and AI-driven transactions are reshaping money movement and decision-making.What You’ll LearnHow fintech evolved from traditional banking infrastructure into a user-experience-driven layer powered by APIs and mobile technologyWhy most successful fintech companies specialize in narrow parts of the financial value chain rather than trying to do everythingThe growing importance of direct relationships with banks, regulators, and payment networks for scaling fintech companiesHow real-time payments, stablecoins, and new rails are transforming cross-border money movementWhy advisory firms that execute alongside clients create more value than traditional consultantsHow agentic AI is beginning to influence commerce, including autonomous purchasing and predictive transactionsThe shift from credit scores to behavioral data like cash flow and “propensity to pay” in financial decision-makingWhy regulatory constraints can act as productive guardrails that help businesses move faster and avoid costly mistakesThis conversation highlights a major inflection point in fintech, where rapid technological advancement is colliding with regulatory uncertainty and new AI-driven behaviors. Ted emphasizes that while the landscape is complex and constantly shifting, those who embrace structured experimentation, leverage expertise, and build within clear guardrails will be best positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities in payments and commerce.To learn more about Ted and their work, visit Valereadvisory.com.

In this episode, host Taylor speaks with Scott Sampson, CEO of Powder Communications, about his journey in the broadband industry and his perspective on leadership, innovation, and the evolving role of internet infrastructure. The conversation explores how technology, partnerships, and mindset shape both business growth and long-term impact.What You’ll LearnHow starting in hands-on sales and technical roles builds a strong foundation for leadershipWhy educating homebuilders and developers is critical to driving adoption of fiber infrastructureHow fiber connectivity can significantly increase property value and influence modern homebuyersThe importance of relationship-building and face-to-face trust in traditional industries Where AI and automation can enhance efficiency without replacing human-driven salesWhy time is the most valuable resource for leaders and how leveraging systems can help reclaim itThe importance of surrounding yourself with talented people and avoiding the need to control everythingHow leadership rooted in mentorship and accountability creates stronger teams and long-term successScott Sampson’s insights highlight that success in a rapidly evolving industry comes from balancing innovation with human connection. His perspective reinforces that while technology continues to transform how businesses operate, leadership, time management, and investing in people remain the most enduring drivers of growth and impact.To learn more about Scott Sampson and their work, visit powdercommunications.com

In this episode, host Taylor Baker sits down with Kyle Hafen, founder and CEO, and Mike Ruffell, COO of Structured Homes, to discuss how they are reimagining housing through innovative construction methods and entrepreneurial thinking. The conversation centers on disrupting the traditional homebuilding industry with scalable, efficient, and affordable solutions.What You’ll LearnHow unconventional opportunities, like a shipping container business, can spark entirely new venturesWhy the traditional homebuilding industry is ripe for innovation and disruptionThe role of entrepreneurial curiosity in identifying and pursuing emerging market opportunitiesHow Structured Homes is leveraging alternative construction methods to improve efficiency and affordabilityThe importance of adaptability and long-term experience in real estate and developmentKey challenges facing modern housing, including cost, scalability, and accessibilityHow partnerships and complementary leadership styles drive business growthWhy rethinking legacy systems is essential to solving large-scale industry problemsThis conversation highlights the power of questioning established norms and embracing creative solutions in industries that have remained largely unchanged. Kyle Hafen and Mike Ruffell share how their combined experience and willingness to explore unconventional ideas are enabling them to tackle one of today’s most pressing challenges; accessible, scalable housing, while building a business designed for long-term impact.To learn more about Kyle Hafen, Mike Ruffell and their work, visit StructuredHomes.com.

In this episode, host Jessie Warner speaks with Dr. Brianna Rhue, optometrist and CEO of Dr. Contact Lens, about building a healthcare-driven tech company and navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, innovation, and growth. The conversation centers on identifying market friction, creating patient-centered solutions, and scaling a business with intention.What You’ll Learn:How identifying friction in your industry can lead to powerful business opportunitiesWhy solving real customer problems is the foundation of successful innovationThe importance of building and evolving a strong brand in a competitive marketHow early-stage entrepreneurs often waste marketing resources without proper tracking and strategyWhy understanding your ideal customer profile is critical before scaling marketing effortsThe value of slowing down to analyze data and improve long-term growth outcomesHow staying focused on proven strategies can outperform chasing new, untested ideasWhy mentorship, coaching, and accountability can accelerate business maturity and clarityThis conversation highlights the realities of entrepreneurship—balancing vision with execution, learning from missteps, and continuously refining strategy. Brianna Rhue’s journey underscores the importance of staying grounded in customer needs while building systems that support scalable, sustainable growth. Her insights reveal that success often comes not from doing more, but from doing the right things with greater focus and discipline.To learn more about Brianna Rhue and her work, visit drcontactlens.com.

In this episode, host Jessie Warner speaks with Gigi Kizhakkechethipuzha, founder of ImpelHub, about his entrepreneurial journey and the critical role of marketing in building successful businesses. The conversation centers on lessons learned from scaling startups, navigating failures, and creating sustainable growth through strategic focus.What You’ll Learn:Why marketing should be the top priority in any startup, even before product development or salesThe risks and lessons of trying to run multiple ventures simultaneouslyHow experience in corporate environments can shape entrepreneurial thinkingThe importance of focus and discipline when building and scaling a businessWhat it takes to grow an e-commerce engineering company serving major global clientsHow storytelling and positioning influence business success in competitive marketsThe value of learning from failure and applying those lessons to future venturesWhy long-term vision and execution matter more than chasing multiple short-term opportunitiesThis episode highlights the evolution of an entrepreneur who moved from scattered efforts to focused execution, emphasizing that success is less about having many ideas and more about prioritizing what truly drives growth. Gigi’s journey underscores that mastering marketing, staying disciplined, and learning from missteps are essential to building a meaningful and scalable business.To learn more about Gigi Kizhakkechethipuzha and his work, visit impelhub.com.

In this episode, host Jessie Warner speaks with Jay Rutherford, CEO and founder of The Virtual Wild, an immersive technology and storytelling company, about how emerging tools like VR and AR are transforming the way businesses communicate, market, and connect with their audiences.What You’ll Learn:How recognizing early technology trends can create opportunities for entirely new business modelsWhy immersive storytelling is becoming a powerful differentiator in sales and marketingThe importance of acting as a strategic partner, not just a service provider, for clientsHow curiosity and continuous learning drive innovation in rapidly evolving industriesWhat it takes to scale a business from a solo founder to a global teamWhy understanding a client’s full business model leads to more impactful solutionsHow experiential technology is reshaping trade shows and in-person brand experiencesThe value of blending creativity with technical expertise to deliver memorable customer engagementJay Rutherford’s journey highlights how timing, vision, and adaptability can position a company at the forefront of industry change. By embracing emerging technologies and focusing on deep client collaboration, he has built a business that not only keeps pace with innovation but helps define it, demonstrating the growing importance of immersive experiences in modern communication and marketing.To learn more about Jay Rutherford and his work, visit thevirtualwild.com or wildview.ai.

In this episode of the Achieve Podcast, host Jessie Warner sits down with H. Puentes, co-founder and president of San Diego Squared, to discuss how his organization is redefining talent development in STEM by identifying high-potential students early and connecting them with opportunity. The conversation centers on building social capital, creating scalable impact, and preparing the next generation for an uncertain, innovation-driven future.What You’ll Learn:Why “talent is universal, but opportunity is not” and how this principle shapes San Diego Squared’s missionHow social capital and referral networks play a critical role in career access, especially in STEM fieldsThe importance of identifying and investing in high-potential students early, before traditional systems engage themHow adopting proven talent development models from sports and entertainment can transform workforce pipelinesWhy strong governance and building a “brick-by-brick” foundation early can create long-term scalability and trustThe difference between for-profit and nonprofit growth, especially the concept of “return on impact”How positioning a nonprofit as an investment in talent—not charity—attracts donors and corporate partnersWhy entrepreneurial thinking and adaptability are essential skills for students entering an AI-driven futureThis conversation highlights a shift from traditional education and hiring models toward a more intentional, network-driven approach to talent development. H. Puentes emphasizes that unlocking human potential at scale requires early intervention, strong partnerships, and a commitment to building systems that prioritize access and opportunity. His work demonstrates how aligning mission with market needs can create meaningful, measurable impact while strengthening the future workforce.To learn more about H. Puentes and his work, visit sd2.org.

In this episode, host Jesse Warner speaks with Matthew Watson, President of Legal Fee Consultants, about building a specialized billing and compliance business for law firms and service providers. The conversation centers on entrepreneurship through unexpected transitions, scaling a service-based company, and leveraging technology like AI to improve operational efficiency.What You’ll Learn:How an unexpected career disruption can become the catalyst for launching a successful businessThe importance of trusting experienced advisors when making major entrepreneurial decisionsWhy operational excellence and compliance are critical in billing and accounting servicesHow to scale a service business from a solo operation to a growing team in a short timeframePractical ways AI can enhance, rather than replace, human roles in complex workflowsWhy quality control and human oversight remain essential even with automationThe power of strategic partnerships and word-of-mouth in driving early business growthWhy in-person networking and industry events often outperform cold outreach in relationship-driven industriesMatthew Watson’s journey highlights the value of stepping outside of one’s comfort zone and embracing leadership, even when it feels unfamiliar. His experience underscores that sustainable growth comes from a balance of strong relationships, operational discipline, and thoughtful adoption of new technologies. Ultimately, the conversation reinforces that success in specialized industries is built on trust, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous improvement.To learn more about Matthew Watson and his work, visit legalfee-consultants.com.

In this episode, host Taylor Baker speaks with Erin McDonald, founder of Spilt Milk Nannies, a childcare platform connecting families with vetted nannies, about building a community-driven business and scaling a service rooted in trust and relationships.What You’ll Learn:How Erin McDonald turned an early nanny role into ownership of a growing childcare businessWhy word-of-mouth marketing can outperform paid advertising in trust-based industriesThe critical role of custom software in scaling service-based businesses efficientlyHow community-building creates both supply (nannies) and demand (families) organicallyThe impact of COVID-19 on childcare businesses and shifting customer behaviorWhy human involvement remains essential in services like childcare despite advances in AIHow Erin balances multiple perspectives as a founder, former nanny, and now a parentThe operational challenges of managing reliability, cancellations, and rising labor costsErin McDonald’s journey highlights the power of combining operational systems with deeply personal service. By prioritizing trust, relationships, and community over aggressive marketing or automation, she has built a resilient business that adapts to changing family needs while maintaining high standards. Her story underscores that in human-centered industries, technology should support not replace the personal connections that drive long-term success.To learn more about Erin McDonald and their work, visit spiltmilknannies.com

In this episode of the Achieve Podcast, host Taylor Baker sits down with Mike Schindler, CEO of The VUCA Principles, a leadership coach and former military professional, to explore how individuals and organizations can navigate volatility and uncertainty by shifting their mindset and building internal resilience.What You’ll Learn:The meaning of VUCA—volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity—and how it impacts modern leadership and decision-makingHow to reframe VUCA into a positive framework: vision, understanding, clarity, and adaptabilityWhy external circumstances are uncontrollable, but internal responses are the key to growth and successThe concept of “above the line” vs. “below the line” thinking and how it shapes behavior and outcomesHow the “Human 1.0 to Human 10.0” model helps individuals move from reactive to intentional livingThe importance of adaptability and clarity in times of rapid change or crisisHow leadership development principles used in the military can be applied to business and personal transitionsWhy creating accessible tools and training can help people move from feeling stuck to taking meaningful actionMike Schindler’s insights highlight that while the world will always present uncertainty, true transformation comes from mastering internal perspective and response. By shifting from reactive patterns to intentional, values-driven action, individuals and leaders can navigate challenges more effectively and create lasting impact in both their personal and professional lives.To learn more about Mike Schindler and their work, visit itsvucamax.com

In this episode, host Taylor Baker speaks with Tyler Clark, CEO and co-founder of Zawadie, about building a mission-driven company that connects skilled refugees with meaningful remote work. The conversation centers on unlocking overlooked global talent while creating dignified employment opportunities.What You’ll Learn:How firsthand exposure to refugee communities revealed a massive pool of highly educated, underutilized talentWhy many refugees possess advanced degrees and professional experience but lack access to job marketsThe origin story of Zawadie and how it evolved from building libraries to creating employment pathwaysThe concept of “dignified work” and why it matters more than traditional aid modelsHow businesses can access reliable, capable remote talent while making a social impactThe importance of vetting, training, and aligning talent with the right business needsCommon misconceptions about refugees and their capabilities in professional environmentsHow purpose-driven business models can create sustainable, scalable impact for both companies and communitiesre key advantages for early-stage entrepreneursThis conversation highlights a powerful shift from charity to empowerment, demonstrating that providing access to meaningful work can transform lives while also delivering real business value. Tyler Clark’s work with Zawadie shows that solving global challenges and building successful companies are not mutually exclusive, but can be deeply interconnected when approached with intention.To learn more about Tyler Clark and their work, visit zawadie.com

In this episode, host Jessie Warner speaks with Sinan Gölhan, CEO of GelTech Labs and a nanomedicine entrepreneur, about building a biotech startup focused on automating biomaterial testing and improving outcomes in healthcare. The conversation centers on innovation in lab automation, the challenges of early-stage entrepreneurship, and scaling a hardware-driven business.What You’ll Learn:How personal experiences can shape a founder’s mission and drive innovation in healthcareWhy automation in scientific research can significantly improve efficiency and outcomesThe importance of focusing on a niche market and directly engaging with end usersHow persistence through early failure is critical to gaining traction and building momentumWhy building the right team is one of the most important—and difficult—early decisionsHow combining robotics with AI can enhance product functionality and user experienceThe operational challenges of running a hardware startup, including supply chain constraintsWhy full commitment and timing are key advantages for early-stage entrepreneursThis conversation highlights the intersection of purpose-driven innovation and disciplined execution, showing how a young founder navigated technical complexity, early setbacks, and resource constraints to build a promising biotech company. Sinan Gölhan’s journey underscores the importance of resilience, focus, and surrounding yourself with the right people to transform ambitious ideas into real-world impact.To learn more about Sinan Gölhan and his work, visit geltechlabs.com.

In this episode, host Jessie Warner speaks with Stevi Carr, founder and CEO of Wise Wellness Guild and co-founder of WellNXT, about redefining wellness as a comprehensive, human-centered approach to sustainable performance and fulfillment. Their conversation explores how businesses and individuals can better align values, health, and productivity to unlock long-term success.What You’ll Learn:Why “whole self wellness” goes far beyond surface-level habits and includes mental, financial, and occupational healthHow Stevi Carr’s corporate background revealed gaps in how organizations support employee wellbeingThe connection between human sustainability and long-term business performanceWhy aligning personal values with daily work is critical for fulfillment and effectivenessHow companies can rethink wellness as a strategic investment rather than a perkThe importance of accessibility and inclusivity in wellness programsHow leaders can create environments that support both productivity and personal wellbeingWhy the future of work depends on integrating wellness into every aspect of organizational cultureThis conversation highlights a shift from traditional notions of wellness to a more integrated, values-driven model that benefits both individuals and organizations. Stevi Carr emphasizes that sustainable success comes from supporting the whole person, not just their output, and that businesses that embrace this mindset are better positioned to thrive in an evolving workplace landscape.To learn more about Stevi Carr and her work, visit wisewellnessguildpartners.com or wellnxtfest.com.

In this episode, host Jessie Warner speaks with Ronald Eriksen, President of Crown Holdings Business Development, about his journey into franchising and business development, and the principles behind building and scaling successful business ventures. The conversation centers on sales, leadership, and the long-term mindset required to grow sustainable organizations.What You’ll Learn:How early exposure to sales can shape long-term business instincts and confidenceWhy consistency and discipline are more important than natural talent in salesThe role of franchising as a structured pathway to entrepreneurship and growthHow to identify and qualify the right opportunities and partners in business developmentThe importance of resilience and adaptability in navigating career and business transitionsWhy relationship-building is a critical driver of long-term successHow leadership evolves from individual performance to empowering and developing othersThe value of taking calculated risks and learning through real-world experienceThis conversation highlights the importance of foundational sales skills, persistence, and relationship-driven growth in building a successful career in business development. Ronald Eriksen’s journey illustrates how early hands-on experience, combined with a willingness to learn and adapt, can lead to leadership opportunities and long-term impact. The episode reinforces that sustainable success comes from discipline, strong partnerships, and a commitment to continuous improvement.To learn more about Ronald Eriksen and his work, visit linkedin.com/in/ronald-eriksen-14029b12/.

In this episode of the Achieve Podcast, host Jessie Warner sits down with Rich Marker, owner and CEO of All Metals Fabrication, to discuss his journey building a family-founded manufacturing business and the lessons learned in leadership, growth, and resilience. The conversation centers on entrepreneurship, navigating challenges, and sustaining a business over decades.What You’ll Learn:How taking calculated risks, like securing an SBA loan, can be essential to launching a businessThe impact of family influence and legacy on entrepreneurial decisionsWhy strong relationships and communication are critical in business partnershipsHow hands-on experience from a young age can shape leadership and industry expertiseThe importance of perseverance during uncertain or transitional periodsHow to evolve a business while staying grounded in core valuesThe role of leadership in building a stable and motivated teamWhy long-term thinking is key to sustaining and growing a companyThis conversation highlights the realities of building a business from the ground up, emphasizing that success is rarely immediate but earned through persistence, adaptability, and strong leadership. Rich Marker’s story underscores the value of embracing challenges, learning through experience, and maintaining a clear vision to guide long-term growth.To learn more about Rich Marker and his work, visit allmetalsfab.com.

In this episode of the Achieve Podcast, host Jessie Warner sits down with Melissa Rosenthal, co-founder of OutLever and former media and SaaS marketing leader, to explore how companies can transform themselves into media engines and build powerful content ecosystems. The conversation centers on the evolution of marketing, the convergence of media and SaaS, and how brands can own their audience.What You’ll Learn:Why companies should think of themselves as media companies, not just product or service providersHow Melissa’s experience at BuzzFeed, Cheddar, and ClickUp shaped her approach to modern marketingThe concept of building a “media ecosystem” instead of relying on paid advertising channelsWhy owning your audience is more valuable than renting attention through adsHow storytelling and consistent content creation drive long-term brand growthThe shift from short-term performance marketing to long-term brand building strategiesWhat it takes operationally to build and sustain a content-driven growth engineHow B2B companies can leverage media strategies traditionally used by consumer brandsThis conversation highlights a fundamental shift in how businesses approach growth: moving away from dependency on paid channels toward building owned platforms that compound over time. Melissa Rosenthal makes a compelling case that the future belongs to companies that invest in storytelling, audience-building, and media infrastructure—turning marketing from a cost center into a scalable, strategic asset.To learn more about Melissa Rosenthal and her work, visit outlever.com.