Are you building a business you could sell tomorrow, or are hidden mistakes quietly draining its value?In this episode, Bill joins a roundtable discussion with host Peter Levy, and other powerhouse leaders, including M&A dealmaker Alan Sharfstein, serial entrepreneur Bill Bartzak, strategic advisor Bill Barrett, and hands-on exit veteran John Peck. Together, they deconstruct the most urgent and overlooked truths about navigating the sale of your business, from killer red flags and ruthless buyer tactics to essential “owner’s playbooks” for every stage.If you’re tempted to DIY your deal, break this habit now. Tune in to protect your life’s work, avoid devastating oversights, and hear real-world insights you won’t find anywhere else. Listen now before the next buyer knocks. By then, you need to be ready.Timestamped Highlights[00:11] – The candid, emotional question that every seller must dare to ask[07:39] – How legendary entrepreneurs survived—and thrived—by switching lanes[09:47] – Why today’s M&A market is exploding with both risk and opportunity[14:00] – The one “secret mentor” move that multiplies your business value overnight[21:27] – Shocking? How recurring revenue rewrites your exit story…or kills it[27:20] – The DIY disaster: True stories of owners who left millions on the table[34:07] – The “reverse diligence” test: Are you the buyer…or being bought?[41:12] – Fatal red flags, stealthy earnouts, and the non-negotiables in every deal[48:48] – When to bring your team into the trust circle—and how to handle it[54:28] – How top buyers quietly poach your secrets…and how to block themAbout the SpeakersPeter Levy is Senior Counsel at Mandelbaum Barrett, where he has called home for the past 11 years. As a trusted legal advisor and frequent moderator, Peter brings deep experience and pride in representing one of the finest law firms in the industry. With a longstanding reputation for strategic insight and an engaging, client-centered approach, Peter regularly facilitates panels and seminars for business owners, focusing on topics like exit strategies, business transitions, and personal growth within entrepreneurial careers. His perspective incorporates lessons from leading experts, blending practical business advice with inspiration from renowned thought leaders.🔗 LinkedIn | WebsiteAlan Sharfstein is Founder & CEO of The DAK Group and has led more than 750 successful middle-market transactions with a reputation for combining Wall Street expertise and hands-on entrepreneurial insight.🔗 LinkedIn | WebsiteBill Bartzak is CEO of Kai Group Holdings, serial entrepreneur, and an Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year who built and exited MD Online to Bain Capital—a model for building resilient, sell-ready companies.🔗 LinkedIn | WebsiteJohn Peck is the President of NERCA (North/East Roofing Contractors Association) and is a commercial roofing industry leader known for scaling, systematizing, and selling his business to private equity—proving operational excellence is your best sales pitch.🔗
When your first dream collapses, how do you rebuild…and build something even stronger?In this episode of Fingerprints on Success, I sit down with Christian Galt, Founder of Galt Insurance, to uncover the remarkable journey from failed baseball aspirations to building a national insurance firm licensed in 40 states. Christian speaks candidly about the decade of struggle that nearly broke him, and the lessons that eventually became the foundation for growth, leadership, and culture.For entrepreneurs and leaders, this conversation reveals more than just one man’s story. It’s a blueprint for resilience, for building trust as your true product, and for transforming setbacks into systems that sustain long-term success.Tune in now to hear insights that could prevent costly mistakes, strengthen the way you lead, and remind you that resilience is not optional. It’s the foundation of every lasting business.About the GuestChristian Galt is the Founder and CEO of Galt Insurance, a Naples-based agency now licensed in 40 states with a growing team of 27 employees. What began with a $35 desk and no playbook has become a thriving business rooted in mentorship, teamwork, and client trust. Christian’s philosophy—success leaves clues—has helped him turn failures into frameworks, making Galt Insurance a respected name in the industry.🔗 Galt Insurance Website | Christian Galt on LinkedInMentioned ResourcesState Farm (early career influence)Chick-fil-A (customer service inspiration)Four Seasons Hotel (service model benchmark)Washington Mutual (Closed and sold to JPMorgan Chase), Prudential, Stack Financial (early referral sources)Important Links🌐Work with us and our law firm: https://rebrand.ly/1f443a 🔗Let’s connect on Linkedin: https://rebrand.ly/440d22 Fingerprints on Success is an original podcast, brought to you by William “Bill” Barrett and Podcast Your Brand. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.
How do you turn challenges into opportunities and build a team that transforms weaknesses into strengths?In this episode of the Fingerprints on Success Podcast, Bill Barrett sits down with Roggen Frick, the Founder and Vice President at Bear Iron Works. Roggen shares how growing up around the trades and learning to work with his hands taught him the value of discipline, accountability, and innovation.From building organizational systems that keep his team competitive to knowing when to make tough calls on hiring and letting people go, Roggen offers practical advice for anyone running a business. He explains why focusing on solutions instead of blame drives results, and why the best leaders use problems as fuel for growth and innovation.If you've enjoyed this episode of the Fingerprints on Success podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!Enjoy!Key takeaways:Why every problem is an opportunity for innovationHow organization and clear systems make your business more competitiveThe hiring philosophy that turns weaknesses into strengthsWhen and how to cut your losses when people let you downWhy leaders must focus on solutions instead of blameAnd much more…Guest Bio:Roggen Frick is the founder and Vice President at Bear Iron Works, where he focuses on building strong teams, improving systems, and driving innovation in American manufacturing. Known for his hands-on approach and solution-oriented mindset, Roggen helps transform challenges into opportunities that make his company more competitive and resilient.Resources:Bear Iron Works Connect with Roggen on LinkedInDisclaimer:The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of the Fingerprints on Success podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.
What does it take to scale a creative business without losing the soul that made it special in the first place? In this episode of Fingerprints on Success, host Bill Barrett sits down with Andrea Cole, founder of a thriving custom art business, to explore the journey from solo creator to successful entrepreneur. Andrea shares how she built a business rooted in emotional connection and craftsmanship—and how learning to let go was the key to exponential growth.From building a trustworthy team to navigating the challenges of delegation and brand consistency, Andrea opens up about the mindset shifts that allowed her to scale her impact while preserving the magic that makes her work meaningful. She also emphasizes the value of mentorship, personal accountability, and customer experience as pillars of long-term success.Whether you're an artist, business owner, or aspiring entrepreneur, this episode offers a powerful look at what it means to grow without compromising your core values.If you've enjoyed this episode of the Fingerprints on Success podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!Enjoy!Key takeaways:Why hiring team members who can deliver 80% of your quality is a game-changerHow Andrea transitioned from doing it all to leading a trusted teamThe importance of building a brand that reflects reliability and emotional connectionWhy mentorship is essential—whether paid or personalHow to provide a consistent client experience, even during internal challengesWhat scaling up really looks like in a creative businessHow competition can push you out of your comfort zone and fuel growthAnd much more…Guest Bio:Andrea Cole is the founder and lead visionary behind dbandrea, a flower preservation company that transforms sentimental bouquets into lasting works of art. Her journey began in 2016 with a Valentine’s Day bouquet from her now-husband, sparking a passion that blossomed into a thriving business. Today, Andrea leads the DBA team in delivering world-class preservation services and an exceptional client experience. She also serves as the Director of Marketing and Communications for the WIPA Dallas-Fort Worth chapter, actively supporting and connecting professionals in the wedding industry.Resources:dbandrea.com Connect with Andrea on LinkedInDisclaimer:The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of the Fingerprints on Success podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.
What if the secret to scaling your business wasn’t working harder—but thinking smarter? In this episode of Fingerprints on Success, Bill Barrett sits down with Rachel Durkan, founder and CEO of Paradigm Marketing and Design, to explore the intentional strategies that led to her agency’s long-term success. Rachel shares how she turned a one-woman marketing operation into a thriving team of specialists, and why quitting—when done with clarity and purpose—can be one of the smartest business moves.She also opens up about the emotional side of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the power of systems, mentorship, and surrounding yourself with people smarter than you. Whether you’re a founder, team leader, or aspiring entrepreneur, this conversation will challenge how you think about growth, success, and what it really takes to build something that lasts.If you've enjoyed this episode of the Fingerprints on Success podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!Enjoy!In This Episode You'll Learn:Why every marketing strategy should start with deep audience researchHow storytelling and emotional triggers help convert prospectsThe most common branding mistakes professional firms makeWhy strong messaging can help you attract talent, not just clientsHow to balance authenticity with data-driven contentTips on refining your messaging without overhauling your identityHow Rachel’s agency uses behavioral profiles to design effective campaignsWhy marketing is no longer optional for law firms and other B2B providersAnd much more…Guest Bio:Rachel Durkan is the President of Paradigm Marketing and Design, an award-winning full-service agency that specializes in helping professional firms clarify their messaging and build data-informed strategies that scale. With a background in psychology and over a decade of experience in B2B marketing, Rachel is known for fusing emotional intelligence with analytics. Her team works closely with clients to create tailored branding and marketing systems that not only resonate with their target audience but also deliver measurable results.Resources:ParadigmMarketingandDesign.com Connect with Rachel on LinkedInDisclaimer:The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of the Fingerprints on Success podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.
What do you do when you’ve built a successful career, but something inside tells you there’s more? For Daniel Eisenstadt, that question led to a bold departure from a traditional legal path and into the unpredictable world of entrepreneurship and real estate.In this episode of Fingerprints on Success, Bill Barrett sits down with Daniel to unpack how a single leap of faith reshaped his entire trajectory—from starting a nonprofit in Eastern Europe to scaling and exiting a veterinary group and ultimately building a real estate company with over $500 million in assets.Daniel shares the pivotal moments that shaped his philosophy on leadership, focus, and capital, along with the underestimated power of trust and conviction in scaling a business. He also reveals how mentorship, humility, and an unwavering commitment to people-first leadership continue to guide his journey.If you've enjoyed this episode of the Fingerprints on Success podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!Enjoy!In This Episode You'll Learn:Why focus is one of the most undervalued keys to scalingWhat every entrepreneur should know about raising the “right” amount of capitalThe hidden challenges of high-labor businesses (and how to manage them)How to respond to early-stage critics and use their doubts as fuelWhy building trust inside your team is non-negotiable for sustainable successWhat makes conviction such a powerful sales toolWhy authenticity and integrity aren’t just values — they’re business advantagesHow to recognize opportunity in uncertain timesThe surprising relationship between mentorship and long-term growthAnd much more…Resources:Connect with Daniel on LinkedInTerraVetRealEstate.com
How do you turn around a struggling business and transform it into an industry leader? In this episode of Fingerprints on Success, host Bill Barrett sits down with Michael Jacobson, CEO of French Florist, to discuss his journey from taking over a traditional mom-and-pop flower shop to scaling it into a thriving e-commerce and franchise brand.Michael shares how he took a business that was struggling to stay afloat and turned it into the largest floral company in Los Angeles. From cutting inefficiencies and optimizing operations to leveraging digital marketing and innovative franchise models, he dives deep into the critical decisions that fueled French Florist’s explosive growth.If you're interested in entrepreneurship through acquisition, scaling a business while maintaining quality, and modernizing a traditional industry, this episode is packed with insights on leadership, strategy, and innovation.In This Episode You'll Learn:Why buying a business means inheriting both its assets and liabilitiesHow strong internal systems lead to exceptional customer experiencesWhen and why digital strategies like SEO can be game changersThe impact of hiring the right people and building a strong team cultureWhy franchising became the best path for scaling French FloristHow prioritizing customer experience differentiates a brand in a crowded marketThe deeper meaning behind flowers—how they convey love and human connectionWhy challenging the status quo is key to long-term successAnd much more…Resources:Michael@frenchflorist.com FrenchFlorist.com French Florist on LinkedIn
In today's episode of the Fingerprints on Success podcast, Bill is joined by Dr. Ryan Williamson, founder of Transcend Health.During the conversation, Ryan reflects on the journey that led him to pursue a path of helping others. With a strong foundation in both science and personal experiences, he shares how a passion for making a difference has driven his career decisions.The discussion dives into the importance of mental health awareness, particularly in high-pressure environments like the military and entrepreneurship. Ryan reveals how addressing personal struggles and understanding past traumas has profoundly affected his ability to serve others and be present in their relationships.The episode offers a glimpse into the transformative principles that have guided Ryan's remarkable journey.Don't miss another episode of the Fingerprints on Success podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!Enjoy!In This Episode You'll Learn:Ryan's journey into healthcare, starting as a neurologist and being influenced by personal family losses.The importance of providing evidence-based information to help people make informed decisions about their health.The concept of the physiological sigh as a stress-relieving technique.The role of therapy and mental health practices in maintaining well-being and performance.And much more...Resources:Transcend HealthRyan's LinkedIn
How do you build a thriving business from the ground up while staying true to your values? In this episode of Fingerprints on Success, Bill Barrett sits down with Jerry Smith, co-founder of Dial Environmental Inc., to explore his four-decade journey of entrepreneurship, leadership, and resilience.Jerry and his high school best friend started their pest control business in 1985 with just one truck and a vision. Over the years, they built it into a household name in Northern New Jersey, prioritizing customer service, innovation, and a commitment to green solutions. Jerry shares how he navigated industry changes, economic downturns, and the evolving challenges of leadership, all while maintaining a strong company culture and a lasting partnership.If you're an entrepreneur looking for insights on long-term success, business growth, and leadership principles that truly make a difference, this episode is for you! Enjoy!In This Episode You'll Learn:The importance of character-building in leadership and business successHow a strong company culture and transparency fuel long-term growthThe role of mentorship and learning from industry leadersWhy embracing green solutions gave Dial Environmental a competitive edgeLessons from 40 years of partnership and business resilienceHow to scale a business by empowering employees and leading with serviceAnd much more…Resources:Connect with Jerry on LinkedinBooks Mentioned: How to Win Friends & Influence People The 7 Habits of Highly Effective PeopleThe Man in the Arena: Selected Writings of Theodore Roosevelt: A ReaderBegin With the End in Mind: Habit 2 of The 7 Habits of Highly...
What does it take to turn a childhood love for art and design into a high-end, multi-million-dollar business? In this episode of Fingerprints on Success, Bill Barrett sits down with Howard Roberts, founder of Liquidscapes, to uncover his inspiring journey from a tough upbringing to becoming one of the most sought-after designers in high-end residential landscaping.Howard shares how he built his business from the ground up, creating over 7,000 custom outdoor living spaces for top clients, including CEOs, professional athletes, and even presidents. He discusses why mentorship is critical, how calculated risks separate true entrepreneurs from those who stay stagnant, and how he uses AI and virtual reality to revolutionize the industry.If you’re an entrepreneur, a creative professional, or someone looking to scale a high-end business without sacrificing quality, this episode is filled with game-changing insights from a master in his field. Enjoy!In This Episode You'll Learn:Why quality over quantity is the foundation of long-term successHow mentorship and self-education shaped Howard’s careerWhy staying grounded as an artist and entrepreneur is crucialThe biggest mistakes entrepreneurs make when scaling their businessesHow AI is changing the way we visualize and execute designsWhy calculated risks separate top entrepreneurs from those who stand stillAnd much more…
In today's episode of the Fingerprints on Success podcast, Bill is joined by George Muha, founder of Big State Sports.During the conversation, George reflects on the difficulties of maintaining the core essence of a business while expanding its reach. As responsibilities grow and new systems are put in place, there’s a delicate balance between preserving quality and learning to delegate. You'll hear about George's struggle to let go — of once-personal tasks, of direct relationships, and of certain control. Yet, in doing so, he discovered that trust in a team and clearly defined roles can lead to even greater success. There’s an emphasis on the surprising realization that sometimes, the best move forward is a return to one’s roots—focusing on the passion and unique abilities that built the foundation in the first place. This episode covers strategy and vision, however what stands out most is unwavering enthusiasm — the kind that turns hard work into something that doesn’t feel like work at all.Don't miss another episode of the Fingerprints of Success podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!Enjoy!In This Episode You'll Learn:George's early background, including his 20-year career in the trucking industry and his passion for writing. His transition from, what was once a hobby, to a business, driven by the need to support his family after his wife lost her part-time job. The challenges and opportunities that emerged during the pandemic, emphasizing the importance of flexibility and innovation. The challenges of scaling the business while maintaining quality and consistency. And much more...Resources:Big State Sports
In today's episode of the Fingerprints on Success podcast, Bill is joined by R.T Custer, founder of the Vortic Watch Company.During this inspiring conversation, R.T. shares his path from humble beginnings to spearheading a venture that blends history, craftsmanship, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Along the way, he reflects on the significance of preserving tradition while embracing innovation, offering a glimpse into the values and mindset that fuel his success.You'll hear about the challenges and triumphs that define a business’s evolution, including a high-stakes legal battle that tested the founder's resolve and principles. The discussion highlights the importance of standing firm in the face of adversity, guided by a deep belief in one's mission and an unwavering commitment to ethics and creativity.The conversation also touches on the joy of collaboration and the energy that comes from surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals. The excitement of building something bigger than oneself shines through, as does the dedication to leaving a lasting legacy. With an emphasis on fun, purpose, and the power of proximity, this episode serves as a testament to the transformative potential of entrepreneurship and a reminder that every challenge is an opportunity to innovate and inspire.Don't miss another episode of the Fingerprints on Success podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!Enjoy!In This Episode You'll Learn:The lack of American-made products, particularly watches, and the decision to explore the possibility of making watches in the USA. The initial launch of Vortic on Kickstarter in November 2014, where they raised $41,000, far exceeding their $10,000 goal.The marketing strategies for both Vortic and the Colorado Watch Company, focusing on the unique process of converting pocket watches. The legal battle with the Swatch Group, which accused Vortic of trademark infringement and counterfeiting for using antique Hamilton pocket watches. And much more...Resources:Vortic Watch CompanyR.T.'s LinkedIn
How do you grow a family business into a nationwide leader in the produce industry while staying true to your roots? In this episode of the Fingerprints on Success podcast, Bill Barrett sits down with Frank Dandrea, president of Dandrea Produce. For over 25 years, Frank has led this fourth-generation family business, founded in 1917, transforming it into one of the East Coast's top growers and distributors of fresh fruits and vegetables.Frank shares the story of his journey, from joining the family business in his 20s to spearheading innovations like global sourcing, streamlined logistics, and the launch of Greenlane, a direct-to-home delivery service for fresh produce. He reflects on the challenges of scaling a business in the volatile world of agriculture, the lessons learned from his mentors, and the philosophy that has driven Dandrea Produce’s long-standing success: collaboration and a commitment to quality.Whether you're a business owner, aspiring entrepreneur, or simply curious about the inner workings of the produce industry, this episode offers invaluable insights into leadership, resilience, and the power of staying ahead of the curve. Enjoy!In This Episode You'll Learn:Why working collaboratively in business creates success for all involvedHow Dandrea Produce scaled from a local family farm to a global distribution networkThe challenges and opportunities of launching Greenlane, a direct-to-home delivery serviceThe importance of mentors and fostering a strong work ethicWhy agriculture is more than a business—it's a lifestyle built on dedicationAnd much more…Resources:Dandreaproduce.com Greenlanedelivery.com
How do you transform a small leather goods company into a globally recognized luxury brand? In this episode of the Fingerprints on Success podcast, Bill Barrett sits down with visionary entrepreneur Charlie Clifford, the founder of Tumi, Inc. and co-founder of ROAM Luggage, Inc. Charlie shares his journey from launching Tumi with just $10,000 to building a premium brand sold in over 75 countries and eventually selling the company to Samsonite for $1.8 billion.Charlie reflects on the lessons learned in product innovation, team building, and customer loyalty. He discusses how embracing continuous improvement and listening to feedback helped him scale Tumi into a global leader in premium luggage. Now, with ROAM Luggage, Charlie continues to innovate by offering customizable, made-to-order travel products crafted in Vidalia, Georgia. This episode is filled with invaluable insights for entrepreneurs on how to build lasting brands and lead with purpose. Enjoy!In This Episode You'll Learn:How starting without a formal business plan can still lead to success through curiosity, adaptability, and persistenceWhy focusing on product quality and continuous improvement is key to building customer trustThe power of surrounding yourself with smart, committed people who challenge ideas and push for better solutionsWhy listening to frontline employees and customers leads to better products and stronger brandsHow doing the right thing for customers is not only good ethics but also a powerful marketing strategyAnd much more…Resources:ROAMluggage.com Tumi.com Charlie’s LinkedIn
What does it take to grow a family business into a nationally recognized architectural and engineering firm? On this episode of Fingerprints on Success, Bill Barrett sits down with Matthew Jarmel, CEO of Jarmel Kizel Architects and Engineers, to explore his journey of leadership, growth, and innovation. Starting as part of a family-run business, Matthew has expanded the firm to include multi-disciplinary services, tackling diverse real estate projects across the country. Matthew opens up about the challenges and rewards of working in a family business, the importance of mentorship, and the lessons learned from balancing technical expertise with entrepreneurial vision. Whether he’s discussing collaboration in design, the value of in-office teamwork, or the future of sustainable architecture, Matthew brings a wealth of insights to inspire entrepreneurs and professionals alike. If you’re looking for fresh perspectives on leadership, adaptability, and leaving your mark, this episode is a must-listen. Enjoy!In This Episode You'll Learn:Collaboration between architects and engineers is critical to successful projectsA diverse approach to services and verticals is key to thriving in both good and bad timesWorking in-office fosters mentorship, collaboration, and stronger teams Success in architecture requires balancing technical skills with business acumenLeadership evolves with experience; openness and adaptability are vitalA trusted team is essential for achieving balance between work and personal lifeAnd much more…Resources:Matthew’s LinkedInJarmelKizel.com
What does it take to build a successful business from the ground up? In this episode of Fingerprints on Success, host Bill Barrett sits down with Phil Zamloot, founder of Metro Exhibits, to uncover the principles that have guided his journey. From starting a company on a yellow piece of paper to navigating challenges like the 2008 financial crisis and the pandemic, Phil shares his unfiltered perspective on entrepreneurship, leadership, and grit.Phil dives into the importance of standing out in a competitive market, building genuine relationships, and instilling work ethic and perseverance in the next generation. His candid stories about risk-taking, focus, and staying true to core values offer invaluable lessons for anyone looking to succeed in business and life. Enjoy!In This Episode You Will Learn:Success comes from focusing on your core business before diversifying into other venturesBuilding strong relationships is an inherent skill but requires curiosity and genuine interest in othersGrit, defined as passion, perseverance, and work ethic, is a key to achieving successEmbrace differentiation and avoid being average in a competitive marketplaceWork ethic and effective communication skills put you ahead of the competition, regardless of your backgroundEntrepreneurship involves calculated risks and unwavering focus on your goals.And much more…Resources:Metroexhibits.com Phil’s LinkedInBook:Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance
In today's episode of the Fingerprints on Success podcast, Bill is joined by Jay Wong, founder and CEO of Podcast Your Brand, a marketing agency empowering CEOs and ambitious companies to launch and grow profitable podcasts.You'll learn about the unexpected turns Jay's career took with the introduction of podcasting, which became more than just a platform; it became a means to connect with influential thinkers, creators, and visionaries.Hear Jay's personal reflections on the creative challenges and triumphs of building a business in today’s fast-paced world. Despite the data-driven demands of online business, he reveals his recent rediscovery of creativity and the significance of nurturing that side of himself.This episode offers insights into the impact of mentorship, creativity, and personal growth on entrepreneurial success and how reconnecting with one’s creative side can fuel both business and personal fulfillment.Don't miss another episode of the Elevate Your Career podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!Enjoy!In This Episode You'll Learn:The impact of major elections on business and personal life, and why an election is similar to a Super Bowl weekend.Jay's journey to starting Podcast Your Brand, which didn't initially start as an agency but came about through feedback and market demand.How feedback from business owners led him to focus on helping them launch podcasts, rather than teaching them the technical aspects. Why empowering team members to discover their own superpowers and become leaders in their own right is vital.The value of networking and building relationships with people who can provide guidance and support.And much more...Resources:Podcast Your BrandJay's LinkedIn
In this episode of Fingerprints on Success, Bill Barrett sits down with Phillip Hogan, CEO of Signing Services of America. Phillip shares his journey from humble beginnings in a family business to leading a national notary signing company with over 65,000 Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) compliant notary agents. He reflects on how lessons learned from his parents and life experiences, including serving in the U.S. Navy, have shaped his approach to leadership and business growth.Phillip discusses the challenges and strategies behind scaling a business from a solo venture to a nationwide operation, emphasizing the importance of preparation and infrastructure. He also delves into the importance of instilling pride and joy in his team, ensuring that employees feel valued and supported. Listeners will gain insights into maintaining resilience, fostering a strong company culture, and embracing both personal and professional growth. Enjoy!In This Episode You'll Learn:Scaling a business requires having the right infrastructure in place before taking on larger clientsVision alone isn't enough; putting action behind that vision is key to making it powerful and sustainableUnderstanding every phase and department of a business is crucial for effective management and growthBuilding a company culture where employees feel pride and joy leads to better results and trustThe significance of perseverance and continuous learning as core components of successful leadershipAnd much more…Resources:Phillip’s LinkedInSigningServicesofAmerica.com Book:Take Care of Your People: The Enlightened CEO's Guide To Business Success
In this episode of Fingerprints on Success, Bill Barrett interviews Steven DeAngelo, founder and principal of St. Agrestis and Greenhook Ginsmiths. Steven shares his remarkable journey, from creating artisan gin in Brooklyn to launching the widely acclaimed non-alcoholic Phony Negroni. With his extensive experience in the beverage industry, Steven dives into the challenges of running a distillery in New York and the pivotal moments that shaped his entrepreneurial path. He walks us through the critical business lessons he's learned along the way, from managing costs to overcoming industry regulations. Steven also opens up about how the pandemic forced him to pivot quickly, turning his distillery into a hand-sanitizer production hub and ultimately leading to the creation of one of the fastest-growing non-alcoholic beverages in the market today. This episode is packed with insights into the entrepreneurial mindset and the perseverance required to succeed in a competitive industry. Enjoy!What You Will Learn In This Episode:Why Steven left a career in finance to start his own distilleryThe challenges of building a beverage brand in a highly regulated industryHow the pandemic forced Steven to pivot his business model and innovateThe importance of a small business mentality when managing costs and cash flowHow the Phony Negroni became one of the fastest-growing non-alcoholic beveragesAnd much more…Resources:Steven’s LinkedInGreenhookgin.com Stagrestis.com
What happens when an unexpected layoff sparks a 17-year journey into entrepreneurship? In this episode of Fingerprints on Success, host Bill Barrett welcomes Leslie Hassler, founder of Your Biz Rules and a seasoned business strategist. Leslie shares her journey from an accidental entrepreneur to a successful business owner, helping small businesses grow and scale with a focus on sustainability and balance.Leslie discusses the key lessons learned through her first business, her perspective on hiring and team development, and why adaptability is the cornerstone of sustainable growth. She also talks about the power of connecting team members to the company’s vision and mission, and how prioritizing employee well-being can lead to long-term success. Plus, Leslie dives into the concept of "cash forward"—an innovative approach to funding growth that keeps businesses financially prepared while scaling.Curious about why Leslie advocates for a "hire fast, fire fast" mentality? Want to learn how to leverage AI to enhance your team's efficiency and make scaling your business less stressful? This episode is full of insights on leadership, team management, and creating a business model that supports both growth and well-being.In This Episode You'll Learn:Leslie’s journey from unexpected job loss to building a successful B2B consultancyWhy adaptability is key in a rapidly changing business landscapeThe value of "hire fast, fire fast" to find the right team fit quicklyHow connecting employees to the company’s vision enhances retention and engagementThe concept of "cash forward" and how it helps fund growth strategicallyPractical ways to use AI to reduce mundane tasks and boost employee satisfactionUnderstanding the difference between growth and scalability in businessAnd much more…Resources:YourBizRules.com