In The Thick of It

Get ready to dive into the entrepreneurial path of ENO8's founder, Jeff Francis. Join us as Jeff takes us from his roots in small-town Farmersville, Texas, to his emergence as a visionary tech entrepreneur.During our conversation, Jeff opens up about the transformative experiences that molded his technology career and the hurdles he's conquered. He delves into how he's built success by ensuring his personal values align with his business objectives, while also sharing candid insights about managing partnership relationships.Discover the origin story of ENO8, as Jeff shares valuable lessons on software development, building strong client relationships, and breaking through business growth barriers. This episode offers a compelling look at one entrepreneur's journey from rural Texas to tech industry leadership.***About ENO8ENO8 is a Dallas-based tech studio that empowers companies to design and develop innovative, impactful digital products. Our partners realize real business returns from new technology initiatives because we arm them with our proprietary innovation process and a best-in-class, experienced team. Through working with us, our clients move faster, reduce their risk, and increase the impact of bringing new digital products to life.To learn more, visit eno8.com ***📧 If you or a founder you know would like to be a guest on In The Thick of It, email us at intro@founderstory.us📱 Connect with us on socials• https://www.linkedin.com/company/in-the-thick-of-it-podcast/• https://www.facebook.com/inthethickofitpodcast/• https://www.instagram.com/inthethickofit_podcast/

In this episode, we welcome Matt Wensing, founder and CEO of Summit, an innovative low-code/no-code automation platform. Matt shares his journey into the world of B2B tech services.From a young age, Matt has always been curious about his future career path. Initially pursuing political science in college, he soon discovered his true passion was in computer science. His first post-college job provided valuable hands-on experience in software development, igniting his interest in the field.Matt's entrepreneurial spirit took flight in 2007 when he launched a weather data startup. This venture taught him the importance of collaboration and understanding client needs. Listen in as Matt discusses his current project, Summit, and how it aims to revolutionize business automation.***About MattMatt is the founder of Summit, a no-code modeling platform that allows non-developers to create amazing new tools and programs for their automated workflows.Before Summit, he co-founded a company called Riskpulse (now Everstream AI). Matt built the initial product — the web's first interactive weather maps, and then led sales and marketing, selling enterprise contracts to the Fortune 1000. Many of the household items you use every day are shipped using a risk score my co-founder Brad and I invented.About SummitSummit is an automation technology company based in Austin, TX. The Summit platform empowers users to create custom triggers, actions, and models that open up a universe of new possibilities inside workflow automation software. Break the limits of no-code.To learn more, visit www.usesummit.com.***📧 If you or a founder you know would like to be a guest on In The Thick of It, email us at intro@founderstory.us📱 Connect with us on socials• https://www.linkedin.com/company/in-the-thick-of-it-podcast/• https://www.facebook.com/inthethickofitpodcast/• https://www.instagram.com/inthethickofit_podcast/

Starting a business is a collaborative effort, as Seth Frey, founder and president of Big Frey, discovered while navigating partnerships and industry changes in promotional products.Seth's entrepreneurial journey began with family inspiration. Post-college, he and his brother established Granny's Goodies, offering exam survival kits to students.Building on this experience, Seth later founded Big Frey Branded Goods & Swag Kits. He encourages fellow entrepreneurs to savor small victories and prioritize long-term objectives over short-term challenges.This episode dives into Seth's lifelong entrepreneurial adventures, offering insights and lessons learned along the way.***About Seth & Big Frey Branded Goods & Swag KitsSeth Frey is the visionary and chief innovator behind Big Frey Promotional Products, where his creative expertise and strategic acumen have set new standards in the branding world. Under his leadership, Big Frey has grown into a leading provider of distinctive promotional items, helping businesses make memorable impressions with every product. Seth’s professional journey is rooted in a strong background in marketing and design. His commitment to transforming promotional items from simple giveaways into powerful brand tools reflects his dedication to excellence and innovation. This drive has positioned Big Frey as a trusted partner for businesses looking to enhance their brand reputation and presence. Outside of the office, Seth balances his professional life with a rich personal life. A devoted family man, Seth and Karen - his greatest cheerleader of 27 years - are blessed with three wonderful daughters who keep their life vibrant and full of joy. Alongside his daughters, he has two energetic Labradors, whose playful antics and unconditional loyalty bring an extra layer of happiness to his family life. This blend of family dynamics and love for his dogs adds depth to Seth’s life, infusing his work with a sense of balance and fulfillment. Seth is also an avid skier. He finds exhilaration on the slopes and draws inspiration from the precision and thrill of skiing. This passion mirrors his approach to business—where calculated strategy meets creativity. With a strong commitment to both his professional and personal spheres, Seth Frey continues to drive Big Frey Promotional Products toward new heights, all while maintaining a solid dedication to his family, friends and zest for life.To learn more about Big Frey, visit www.bigfrey.com ***📧 If you or a founder you know would like to be a guest on In The Thick of It, email us at intro@founderstory.us📱 Connect with us on socials• https://www.linkedin.com/company/in-the-thick-of-it-podcast/• https://www.facebook.com/inthethickofitpodcast/• https://www.instagram.com/inthethickofit_podcast/

In this episode, we feature our first-ever husband and wife duo—Reagan and Elle Pugh—each with their own thriving entrepreneurial ventures. Together, they share the personal and professional experiences that not only brought them together but also fuel their mutual support in business.We explore key topics like the value of mentorship, navigating financial highs and lows, and the power of open communication with business partners. Reagan, a motivational speaker and author, and Elle, the founder of an Enneagram coaching business and luxury greenery company, Gracious Garlands, also reveal their future plans and insights on entrepreneurship.Tune in for an inspiring conversation on balancing marriage and business!***About ReaganReagan Pugh is a writer and speaker dedicated to helping individuals and teams find more meaning in life and work. With a focus on emotional intelligence and self-awareness, Reagan delivers keynote speeches and workshops to thousands of people each year, having worked with organizations like Facebook, Pepsi, Whirlpool, Cardinal Health, all branches of the US Military, Meals on Wheels, and the American Red Cross. Prior to writing and speaking full time, Reagan guided programs on storytelling and culture at companies like Nike, Western Digital, and Kimberly Clark as Chief Storyteller for a global management consulting firm. From 2009 to 2011, Reagan served as a tenth-grade English teacher with Teach for America on the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota. During that time, he  launched a theater program that, in its inaugural year, won the state one- act play competition for the first time. Reagan has instructed at Texas State University, Trinity University, and Angelo State University. He continues to prioritize speaking to student audiences throughout the United States, having visited over 50 college campuses to date. Reagan is a TEDx speaker and frequent podcast guest. His first book, Too Emotional: Overcome the Thunderstorm of Feelings, Shame and Self-Doubt, was published in May of 2024. He lives with his wife, Elle, and their white Labrador, Lily, in Austin, Texas. To learn more, visit https://www.reaganpugh.com/About ElleElle Pugh is a Certified Enneagram Facilitator and Coach, Registered Nurse, and entrepreneur dedicated to holistic wellness and personal growth. Whether it’s one-on-one coaching, training leadership teams at multiple Fortune 100 companies, or designing workshops for startup teams, Elle is committed to helping individuals and organizations understand themselves so they can find healing and renewed connection with one another. Elle started her career in the pediatric cardiac ICU. After realizing the US healthcare system is not designed to heal people, she left the bedside to take a role as the first employee at a healthcare startup. There she grew the team to over 30 medical professionals and formed her working philosophy that healthy organizations are made up of healthy individuals. Elle's entrepreneurial endeavors also extend to Gracious Garlands, a luxury wreath company known for its farm-fresh products and a made-to-order catering company that helped her make money in college. An unabashed Swifty, she still loves to cook and her goal is to ski 50 plus days every winter. To learn more about Beyond Enneagram, visit https://www.beyondyourtype.co/To learn more about Gracious Garlands, visit https://graciousgarlands.com/***📧 If you or a founder you know would like to be a guest on In The Thick of It, email us at intro@founderstory.us📱 Connect with us on socials• https://www.linkedin.com/company/in-the-thick-of-it-podcast/• https://www.facebook.com/inthethickofitpodcast/• https://www.instagram.com/inthethickofit_podcast/

Navigating employee benefits can be a major hurdle for business owners. Selecting insurance plans—from health to dental to vision—can be daunting, with decisions affecting team members and their families.In this episode, we welcome Chris Hamilton of Hotchkiss Insurance. He shares valuable insights on choosing practical, cost-effective benefit plans for your workforce.Scott here: As a founder myself, I've experienced firsthand the weight of choosing employee benefits. Our conversation revealed strategies I hadn't considered before, and I'm sure listeners will gain a fresh perspective on this topic as well.***About Chris:Chris Hamilton is a partner at Hotchkiss Insurance and leads the employee benefits practice. He brings nearly 20 years of experience in corporate finance and in the insurance industry, working with mid-market, regional and national employers. At Hotchkiss, he leads a team of employee benefits consultants and specialists focused on helping companies improve performance and profitability. Chris’s approach is to understand a client’s situation and offer creative solutions to help improve their business, while developing a long-term relationship as a strategic resource. He holds an MBA and BBA in finance.About Hotchkiss Insurance:At Hotchkiss Insurance, we know by safeguarding one's most valuable assets, people and businesses are better able to grow and prosper. We work with you to understand your unique business and deliver tailored insurance solutions and risk management to protect you from life’s uncertainties. With an advisory approach and an ability to reduce complexity, we demonstrate an abiding care for all of those who entrust themselves to us. Whether you know you need business insurance, risk management, employee benefits consulting, personal insurance, surety, or you just want to start the conversation, we've got you covered. Hotchkiss is Texas-based, with main offices in Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, Lubbock, and San Antonio. For more than 40 years, we've protected businesses of all sizes and industries. (Including construction, education, restaurants, landscapers, nursery growers, manufacturing, religious institutions, commercial construction, technology, home builders, energy, more)To learn more, visit https://hotchkissinsurance.com/***If you or a founder you know would like to be a guest on In The Thick of It, email us at intro@founderstory.us

In this episode, we welcome Steffie Tomson, the innovative mind behind Getaway Sticks. Hailing from Houston, Texas, Steffie's journey from a cognitive neuroscience researcher to footwear entrepreneur is as unique as her product line.Steffie shares her mission to revolutionize women's shoes by marrying style with comfort. She recounts the hurdles she faced, from designing her initial high heel prototype to finding a manufacturer willing to produce her bespoke creations.Listen as Steffie delves into the intricacies of balancing innovation, running a business, and maintaining personal drive. This conversation offers insights into her remarkable path and provides a glimpse into what's next for Getaway Sticks.***About SteffieDr. Steffie Tomson is a native Houstonian and scientist who saw a gaping hole in the women's footwear market. Have you ever worn uncomfortable heels? Of course! We all have. Women deserve to be stylish and comfortable, and Dr. Tomson found a way to engineer heels for 10k steps a day. Join us for a morning of fashion and footwear as Dr. Tomson tells us about her journey from brains to bunions and everything in between.About Getaway SticksGetaway Sticks is a women’s fashion footwear brand dedicated to empower women through a simple idea: Create an elegant heel that is actually comfortable AND stylish. Steffie Tomson founded Getaway Sticks in 2020, on a mission to simplify women’s footwear without sacrificing style. Women know it’s what's inside that counts. That’s why Steffie designed Getaway Sticks using athletic foam throughout, rather than using the industry standard of hard plastics and metals. These unforgiving materials do not belong in the foundation of a shoe! When it comes to heels, the only hard consideration should be which pair of Getaway Sticks to wear.To learn more, visit https://getawaysticks.com***📧 If you or a founder you know would like to be a guest on In The Thick of It, email us at intro@founderstory.us📱 Connect with us on socials• https://www.linkedin.com/company/in-the-thick-of-it-podcast/• https://www.facebook.com/inthethickofitpodcast/• https://www.instagram.com/inthethickofit_podcast/

Gut feelings in hiring decisions are a common but flawed approach. Rick Girard's experience in recruitment revealed that many companies often lean on personal biases when selecting or rejecting candidates. This insight led him to create Intertru, a platform leveraging generative AI to promote more objective hiring practices.Rick's story demonstrates that while technological expertise isn't a prerequisite for developing a stellar product, assembling an exceptional team is crucial—good thing he's nailed down an interviewing methodology for hiring the best of the best. For aspiring entrepreneurs, Rick's journey underscores the importance of full commitment to your venture and maintaining an open mind to feedback and diverse viewpoints throughout the process.***About RickRick Girard is the Founder & CEO of Intertru, an AI-powered platform designed to help hiring managers with method-driven interviewing analytics & insights. He is also the host of Hire Power Radio Show & Podcast—a weekly series on LinkedIn Live. Rick enjoys helping business leaders hire accurately for core value alignment and transferable skills. Over the past 9 years, he’s developed a proven methodology for interviewing that backs decision-making with data & facts over personal biases & opinions. When he’s not helping other founders and business leaders, you can find Rick competing in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, surfing, snowboarding, rock climbing, and running with scissors (so dangerous!).About IntertruIntertru is a method-driven interviewing accuracy platform that uses AI and HireOS® methodology to ensure that your company hires the strongest people, every time. Their mission: eliminate bad hiring from planet Earth! To learn more, visit https://intertru.ai/***📧 If you or a founder you know would like to be a guest on In The Thick of It, email us at intro@founderstory.us

Recently we celebrated 1 year of In The Thick of It podcast with a live-streamed episode featuring past guests, including:👤 Justin Smith, Founder of Ebenezer Consulting 👤 Roy Keely, Founder of FirmStudio👤 Taylor Brooks, Founder of SimpleWe hope you enjoy our banter and discussion around business, leadership, and professional development. It was a great time sharing the space with fellow founders—stay tuned for more panel episodes like this one!--🎧 Listen to the show & view featured guests: https://founderstory.transistor.fm/📧 If you or a founder you know would like to be a guest on In The Thick of It, email us at intro@founderstory.us📱 Connect with us on socials• LinkedIn • Facebook • Instagram 

As we near one year since starting In The Thick of It, we're working on a celebratory episode. In the meantime, we'd love for you to catch up on some founder stories you may have missed.In this episode, we learn from Jonathan Lusk, an entrepreneur who grew up in a small town in Texas before going on to attend Texas A&M and build a career in wealth management. Jonathan started out at AT&T and Goldman Sachs, but eventually left to launch his own independent investment firm. More recently, Jonathan co-founded BirdDog, an online marketplace that connects landowners with hunters looking for places to hunt. We’ll hear about Jonathan’s journey from small town kid to successful entrepreneur, the lessons he learned along the way, and how he’s bringing technology and innovation to the hunting industry. Jonathan is all about living life to the fullest, taking risks, and constantly learning and growing, so I think listeners will find his outlook inspiring regardless of their background or industry.***About Jonathan:Jonathan grew up in North Texas on a fish farm where he developed a love for the outdoors. Upon graduation from Texas A&M, he joined the workforce, married his college sweetheart, and started a family. After completing his MBA at Rice, he worked on Wall Street at Goldman Sachs and then launched his own finance company. Jonathan loves relationships and finds great joy in making sure BirdDog hunters are changed through the friendships they make in the outdoors. Jonathan now resides in Washington, TX where he lives on a little piece of land with his wife, Kat, and kids, Jackson, Sam, and Charlotte. They enjoy fishing, hunting, and being outdoors.To learn more about his latest venture, BirdDog, visit birddogit.com.***If you or a founder you know would like to be a guest on In The Thick of It, email us at intro@founderstory.us

As we near one year since starting In The Thick of It, we're working on a celebratory episode. In the meantime, we'd love for you to catch up on some founder stories you may have missed.In this episode of In the Thick of It, host Scott interviews Taylor Brooks, founder and CEO of Simple Donation. Taylor shares his journey from growing up in Atlanta to attending Auburn University and working various jobs before starting Simple Donation, a software company that builds online donation platforms for nonprofits and churches. He discusses the challenges of balancing a full-time corporate job while also running his startup on the side for many years. Taylor provides insights into building company culture, hiring the right people, learning from mistakes, and focusing on solving customer problems rather than just selling features. He emphasizes creating long-term value and building relationships. Throughout the interview, Taylor stresses the importance of persistence and consistency in business. He aims to continue leading Simple Donation for 30-40 more years with a stewardship mindset.***About Taylor:Taylor Brooks is the Founder and CEO of Simple - a company that provides financial tools for churches such as online giving, event registration payments, donor analytics, and corporate card programs.He was born and raised in Atlanta, GA, graduated from Auburn University, and moved to Texas in 2010. #texasforeverTaylor has been married to Rachel for 14 years and has three children: Wyatt, Lyle, and June. For fun he likes to hunt, fly-fish, read old books, listen to old music, and play tennis.About Simple:An easy-to-use giving platform for churches that use Rock RMS, with personal consultation tailored to your congregation's needs. All in service of helping you grow the generosity of your people. We're here to support your mission so you can focus on your ministry. With expert guidance, analytics, and custom giving software designed for your Rock RMS church, we're your partner for community impact and giving that's cheerful, meaningful, and … simple.To learn more, visit simpledonation.com. ***If you or a founder you know would like to be a guest on In The Thick of It, email us at intro@founderstory.us

As we near one year since starting In The Thick of It, we're working on a celebratory episode. In the meantime, we'd love for you to catch up on some founder stories you may have missed.Clayton Flurry is the Founder of Flurry’s Market + Provisions, a beloved local butcher shop and grocery store in Flower Mound, Texas. After spending nearly two decades in the oil and gas industry, Clayton decided in 2020 to leave his career and pursue his entrepreneurial passion. Despite having no prior experience running a retail business, he bootstrapped Flurry's Market from idea to launch in just 9 months. Opening amidst a pandemic came with plenty of challenges from supply chain disruptions to cash flow problems, but Clayton’s commitment to hiring knowledgeable staff, providing quality products, and serving the community with care has allowed the business to thrive. He's learned first-hand how perseverance, adaptability, and faith are key to overcoming the trials of entrepreneurship. Clayton shares his thoughts on surrounding yourself with the right people, treating employees well, and the importance of getting up every day to make a positive difference in people's lives.***About Clayton:Clayton Flurry is the founder of Flurry’s Market, a beloved local butcher shop and grocery store in Flower Mound, Texas. Prior to launching Flurry’s Market in 2020, Clayton spent nearly two decades working in the oil and gas industry, first as a landman in the field and later taking on leadership roles for energy companies. His experience in the corporate world gave him the courage to leave his career to follow his entrepreneurial passion. Despite no prior retail experience, Clayton’s commitment to service and community has made Flurry’s Market a thriving local business.About Flurry's Market + Provisions:Voted best Meat Market in Denton County, Flurry's Market is a specialty meat market, bistro & butcher shop located in the heart of Flower Mound, TX.  Our Mission is centered around quality, service, and value.To learn more, visit flurrysmarket.com.***If you or a founder you know would like to be a guest on In The Thick of It, email us at intro@founderstory.us

As we near one year since starting In The Thick of It, we're working on a celebratory episode. In the meantime, we'd love for you to catch up on some founder stories you may have missed.Last year, we kicked off the podcast with our first guest: Chelsea Curtis, Founder & Managing Partner of Seaport Consulting, a successful Salesforce consulting firm in Boston, MA. Chelsea shares her path to entrepreneurship, discussing the challenges and triumphs she encountered along the way. She highlights the importance of taking risks, building strong client relationships, and sticking to her values. Chelsea also provides valuable insights into the hiring process and the significance of investing in technology for business growth. Whether you're a founder or aspiring entrepreneur, this episode offers valuable lessons and inspiration for building a thriving company.***About Chelsea:Chelsea is a four-time certified Salesforce professional with over 10 years of experience consulting, implementing, and supporting the Salesforce platform. As Managing Partner, Chelsea oversees all aspects of the business and directly manages the consulting team. Prior to founding Seaport Consulting, Chelsea worked as a technical project manager who successfully led a company-wide Salesforce implementation, and played golf professionally on the LPGA Futures Tour. In addition to leading Seaport, Chelsea sits on the board of Mass Golf, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that is dedicated to advancing golf in Massachusetts, and serves as the chair for their diversity, equity, and inclusion committee.About Seaport Consulting:Seaport Consulting is a Boston-based consulting firm who helps companies implement, integrate, and enhance Salesforce. Seaport's approach marries your goals, your people, and your processes with a customized Salesforce solution that's right for you.To learn more, visit seaportconsulting.com.***If you or a founder you know would like to be a guest on In The Thick of It, email us at intro@founderstory.us

Entrepreneurial journeys often take unexpected turns, sometimes leading to extraordinary success. In this episode, we explore Robert (Bob) Bowden's transition from landman to thriving business owner. Bob shares his experience founding two distinct companies: Verity Advisors, which assists in unclaimed property recovery, and VerityPay, offering text-based payment solutions for B2C businesses. He discusses the hurdles and victories encountered along the way, including managing market fluctuations and investigating cross-state expansion opportunities.This conversation offers valuable lessons in resilience and flexibility, relevant to both established entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners.***About BobRobert Bowdon is the President and Founder of Verity Advisors, LLC. His passion is the timely and complete return of all outstanding assets to clients of the business. After more than a decade working in the oil and gas industry as a petroleum landman, Robert founded Verity Advisors to address the growing issue of returning dormant assets to their rightful owners – and it starts with a deep-seated understanding of estate entitlement and corporate ownership. Through a dedication to simplifying this complex process, Robert has successfully facilitated thousands of recoveries totaling tens of millions of dollars and spanning across a wide array of asset types and ownership complexities. Robert has implemented a team of professionals who are experts in their respective fields to grow the business and provide the absolute best experience possible for Verity clients.Outside of the office, Robert enjoys spending time outdoors and raising his two boys and daughter with his wife, Dee. Robert and his family are active members of Bethel Church of Houston and enjoy volunteering and supporting various organizations including Patriots for Veterans, the Archibald Project, KSBJ, Food for the Hungry, and the Wounded Warrior Foundation.Robert holds a B.A. in Criminal Justice from the University of West Florida. He made Houston his home in the early 2000s and has grown a deep appreciation for the city and Texas as a whole.About VerityPayVerityPay is a web-based SaaS platform which quickly and easily delivers payments from your business operating system to consumers via their mobile device, with instant reconciliation.About Verity AdvisorsVerity Advisors is a Class A Investigations company focused on the recovery and return of various assets to our clients. The firm creates a collaborative recovery strategy where our mission is single-minded: we are focused on timely, safe return of what is rightfully yours. Our clients rely upon us to successfully navigate the complex process of proving ownership on their behalf.***If you or a founder you know would like to be a guest on In The Thick of It, email us at intro@founderstory.us

This episode features Joni Girardi, founder and CEO of DataSelf, a business helping mid-sized organizations use data and analytics to gain a competitive edge.Joni's fascination with technology began in his youth, sparked by learning about the unidirectional flow of electrons in diodes. Initially pursuing electrical engineering, he later switched to programming, joining a web development firm in the late 90s.His time working in Silicon Valley during the dot-com era revealed a critical issue: many businesses lacked proper insight into their data. Recognizing this gap, Joni launched DataSelf to offer affordable business intelligence resources for growing small to medium-sized businesses.•••About JoniI'm a geek at heart and an experienced businessman. I'm passionate about technology and how our brains handle modern business. I’m on a mission to improve how growing mid-sized organizations make decisions. I work at the point where analytics, cognitive science, human behavior, and business all come together. I figured out that I was a geek at heart when I was in 7th grade. I went crazy when I learned that a diode is a one-way street for electrons. I started out as an electrical engineer but quickly focused on hard-core programming. After a few years of brushing bits and bytes, I moved to business and got an MBA. I moved to the US from my native country, Brazil. Since then, I've been involved in upper management positions in five technology start-ups, including being a founder and the CEO of the last two.  About DataSelfDataSelf helps mid-sized organizations use big data and analytics to gain and sustain a competitive edge. DataSelf leverages data warehousing, ETL+, Tableau, Power BI and its own secret sauce including 8,000+ KPI templates. They deliver great value from day one.To learn more, visit dataself.com.***If you or a founder you know would like to be a guest on In The Thick of It, email us at intro@founderstory.us

Estate planning may not be the first thing on your mind when launching a business, but it's a crucial step that shouldn't be overlooked. In this episode, we dive into the world of asset protection with estate planning attorney, Candace Sandifer. She outlines key measures entrepreneurs should implement to safeguard their business interests.Candace stresses the importance of enlisting the help of attorneys who specialize in your industry and encourages open, honest discussions during the planning process. Whether you're a business owner or not, this episode offers essential insights into why it's critical to start estate planning sooner rather than later.Tune in for practical advice that could prove invaluable in protecting your legacy and ensuring your wishes are carried out, no matter what the future holds.About Candace:Candace Sandifer is a Partner at the Houser Law Firm and manages the Southlake office.  Candace has practiced law since 2008 and began her career in Washington DC, as an Assistant Attorney General in the Office of the Attorney General, and represented DC Public Schools in their General Counsel's office.  After moving back to Texas in 2011, Candace's practice shifted to a focus on estate planning, probate and business law.  She has been at the Houser Firm since 2019, and enjoys working with families across the state of Texas.  Candace is an avid reader of historical fiction and cookbooks and truly loves podcasts about economics.  She also loves to cook, garden, pretend she is Martha Stewart, and travel to the mountains of Colorado with her husband Collin, and her three children.   She has a dog named Sophie who is the most beautiful rescue Rhodesian Ridgeback who ever lived and a cutie black cat named Jack. About Houser Firm:The Houser Law Firm is a boutique estate planning firm with a commitment to innovative and sophisticated legal solutions to protect our clients' legacies of wealth. At the Houser Firm, “protecting legacies of wealth” is more than just a tagline to us. We recognize that our clients work incredibly hard to achieve their successes. We also understand how difficult it can be to place that hard-earned success in the hands of someone else. You deserve legal advocates who care about you and your family’s future as much as they do their own. With our experienced attorneys at your side, you can rest easy knowing that your legacy will endure.To learn more, visit www.houserfirm.com***If you or a founder you know would like to be a guest on In The Thick of It, email us at intro@founderstory.us

In this episode of "In The Thick of It," Kasey Sisson discusses her journey from recent graduate to successful entrepreneur. After completing her Masters in Organizational Communication in 2019, Kasey leveraged her creative abilities and passion for teaching to establish her own marketing agency, Kasey S Consulting.Kasey shares both the highs and lows of running her business. She recounts the exciting moments of unexpected growth and landing her first international client. However, she also addresses the challenges faced along the way, including cash flow management, talent acquisition, establishing core processes & values, and navigating client misalignments.Throughout the conversation, Kasey emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and kindness towards others in the entrepreneurial journey. This episode offers valuable insights for both seasoned and aspiring business owners, highlighting how fostering a fun and collaborative work environment can contribute significantly to business success.***About Kasey & Kasey S Consulting"Hi, I'm Kasey! Connection is my passion, storytelling is the conduit.I graduated from the University of Arkansas with a Masters in Organizational Communication in 2019, however, I have always considered myself a creative way before my official title...even while working full time in Corporate America. After years of creating for myself, it was a natural fit to use my social media knowledge to help other businesses succeed. After a nudge from my mentor, I decided to take the leap and start a marketing agency in May of 2021. My passion for helping small/medium size businesses with their marketing without the hefty price tag honestly is how Kasey S Consulting began. Because after all, every business is so uniquely different with various marketing needs. After launching my business, then came my first hire, Erin, one of my best friends from middle school. She now leads our team as the account manager, supporting all things client relations. Fast forward to today, we are about to celebrate our second birthday! I could not be more thankful of how far KSC has come and all the team members who have played a part in its success thus far."To learn more, visit www.kaseysconsulting.co

In this In The Thick of It Toolbox episode, Yobany Mayen, Senior Vice President at Encore Bank, talks about the importance of entrepreneurs and businesses having a solid banking relationship.Scott and Yobany discuss the impact of interest rates, the role of personal guarantees, cash management, fraud prevention, and lending processes for small to medium-sized businesses. Yobany provides practical tips for approaching banking relationships and shares insights on what business owners should look for when developing a financial plan with their bank. This discussion equips aspiring entrepreneurs with valuable information to navigate the banking world more effectively.***About Yobany:Yobany Mayen has over 20 years of experience in Commercial Banking spanning three financial institutions and two areas of expertise: Commercial Relationship Management and Treasury Management Services. After graduating from Texas A&M with a finance degree, he entered the Commercial Banking Analyst Training Program at JPMorgan Chase Bank, spending time in New York, Austin, and San Antonio, TX, where he currently resides. Later, he moved to Amegy Bank, a division Zions Bancorporation, and now is at Encore Bank as an SVP, Treasury Management Regional Sales Leader and shareholder. He earned his Certified Treasury Professional (“CTP”) designation in 2003, serves as the President of the San Antonio Association for Financial Professionals (“SAAFP”), and is a volunteer committee member for one of the largest regional annual trade conferences in his industry (TEXPO), which will be hosted in San Antonio in 2025.The recurring themes of his career through a large, medium, and small bank are: winning as a team, finding financial solutions to help clients achieve their goals, and enjoying building relationships with interesting and successful people. Two of the most interesting people he knows are his parents, who immigrated to the United States at young ages, worked hard to be successful in their own careers, and supported him as a first-generation college graduate.He is married to Angie Lewis and has a blended family of 7 kids, 5 grandkids, and one Cavapoo named Bentley. He and his family attend Northeast Bible Church in Garden Ridge, TX and volunteer in the children’s ministry.About Encore Bank:Encore Bank was established in 2019 after its founders moved to the Capital Bank, rebranded it as Encore Bank and began its remarkable growth journey. Starting with just $159 million in total assets, seven employees and a single office, Encore has since expanded its presence into 19 markets across seven states. As of May 15, 2024, Encore Bank had $4 billion in total assets. Headquartered in Little Rock, Arkansas, Encore Bank is a privately held, commercially focused bank that couples highly experienced and talented bankers with innovative technology to offer unprecedented levels of service to its clients through a hospitality-inspired concierge approach. Encore Bank provides a full suite of financial products and services with purpose, passion and precision.To learn more, visit bankencore.com***If you or a founder you know would like to be a guest on In The Thick of It, email us at intro@founderstory.us

Unlock the power of strategic marketing for your startup or small business. In this insightful episode, Laura Neathery, founder of LJ Consulting & Marketing, shares her expertise on the invaluable role of partnering with a marketing agency. Discover the ideal timing to engage an agency and the key qualities to prioritize for a successful collaboration. In today's fast-paced digital landscape, effective marketing demands consistency, quality, and accountability–a long-term game that requires expertise across multiple fronts, from social media channel management to digital advertising, SEO, email marketing, and beyond. If you're an entrepreneurial business owner seeking to amplify your brand's reach, this episode offers invaluable insights into finding the marketing support you need to thrive.***About Laura:A lifelong Texan, Laura Neathery began her journey with a focus on photography. Her creativity and passion for stories led her to journalism emphasizing PR, Advertising, and Marketing. This foundation in visual storytelling and communication naturally led her to the marketing field, where she applied her skills in brand development, digital strategy, and demand generation across various roles. This journey involved agency and client-side marketing enabling her to see and understand both sides of marketing.Laura spent years amid brilliant creatives and digital experts and knew she could bring her own spin of partnership to small to medium-sized businesses seeking scalable marketing solutions. This realization prompted her to establish LJ Consulting & Marketing, L.L.C. in 2018. Laura’s agency democratizes digital marketing, offering end-to-end digital services including SEO, social media management, web design, SMS marketing, and more while ensuring transparency through a client portal for real-time updates. This approach allows businesses to enhance their marketing efforts effectively and efficiently.About LJ Consulting & Marketing:LJ Consulting & Marketing, L.L.C. is a digital marketing agency dedicated to helping small to medium businesses grow their online presence. They offer a range of services, including SEO, social media marketing, web design and development, PPC management, content writing, online reputation management, and more. Their approach involves a detailed consultation, thorough audit, and strategic execution to deliver measurable results and a high return on investment. They emphasize innovation, data-driven strategies, transparency, and a client-centric approach to ensure their clients' success in the digital landscape.To learn more, visit ljcandm.com***If you or a founder you know would like to be a guest on In The Thick of It, email us at intro@founderstory.us

On this episode of In The Thick of It, Scott sits down with Sam Bluntzer, owner of Blue Ribbon Rain Gutter in Fort Worth, Texas. Sam shares his unique path to entrepreneurship, from growing up in the small town of New Braunfels, Texas to becoming a Marine Corps fighter pilot and eventually taking over a gutter business just two weeks before the COVID-19 pandemic began.Sam discusses the challenges of rapidly modernizing the company's systems, managing supply chain disruptions, and keeping crews motivated during uncertain times. He emphasizes the importance of having standard operating procedures in place so the business can run smoothly without relying too heavily on the owner.New and aspiring business owners will gain valuable insights from Sam's experiences with proactive communication, taking ownership of mistakes, and continuously seeking ways to improve the business.About Sam:Sam Bluntzer is a Texas A&M University alumnus from New Braunfels, Texas. After college, he joined the marines and went on to become a F-18 fighter pilot, serving tours in Japan, Iraq, and other deployments over an 11-year career. Following his time in marines, Sam used his operational experience to transition into the oil and gas industry in Fort Worth, Texas. Today, Sam owns and operates Blue Ribbon Rain Gutter, a successful rain gutter installation company servicing customers throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.About Blue Ribbon Rain Gutter:Blue Ribbon Rain Gutter is your trusted partner for seamless rain gutter installation in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. With over 19 years of dedicated service and thousands of completed installations, Blue Ribbon Rain Gutter treats each customer's home as if it were their own, delivering top-notch gutter solutions regardless of the project's size.To learn more, visit blueribbonraingutter.com

This week, we're taking a pause to celebrate Memorial Day and honor those who have served.Many people often think of Memorial Day as the start of summer, but I encourage everyone to take a moment to remember those who've sacrificed themselves for our freedom in the United States. While Veterans Day honors both living and deceased veterans, Memorial Day is also an appropriate time to thank everyone who has served. We've had a few veteran guests on the show thus far, including:Clayton Flurry: Episode #6 - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clayton-flurry-85667338/Drew Murr: Episode #16 - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drewmurr/Ahmed Qureshi: Episode #33 - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ahmed-q-927237/I recommend giving their episodes a listen and reaching out to them to thank them for their service. Happy Memorial Day to you and your family!***If you or a founder you know would like to be a guest on In The Thick of It, email us at intro@founderstory.us