Episode #16: Tony Reffeitt, Integrity Real Estate
The Behind the Brand Podcast
Join hosts Bob Paden and Adam Hayes as they sit down with Tony Reffeitt, President & Owner of Integrity Real Estate, in this engaging episode of Behind the Brand. Tony shares his inspirational journey from traveling the country as a gospel musician to building a respected real estate business rooted in central Indiana. Having started Integrity Real Estate in 2002, after years with larger brokerages, Tony opens up about the defining moments that motivated him to strike out on his own, prioritizing genuine client relationships and eliminating corporate overhead to serve his clients...
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Episode #15: Lauren Taylor, Holder Mattress
The Behind the Brand Podcast
In this episode of Behind the Brand, hosts Bob Paden and Adam Hayes sit down with Lauren Taylor, owner and president of Holder Mattress Company, a 77-year-old Indiana business known for its craftsmanship, integrity, and commitment to American manufacturing. As a third-generation leader, Lauren shares the remarkable story of a family-built brand that began after World War II and continues to handcraft mattresses in Kokomo, Indiana, with every stitch rooted in quality and care for their community. Lauren opens up about the challenges and triumphs of running a small manufacturing company in an...
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Episode #14: Zack Conner, Conner Insurance
The Behind the Brand Podcast
On this episode of Behind the Brand, hosts Adam Hayes and Bob Paden sit down with Zack Conner, owner and partner at Conner Insurance, to uncover the story behind this third-generation family business. Zack shares how Connor Insurance began in 1949, founded by his grandfather, the remarkable Henry Clay Conner Jr.—a World War II veteran whose survival story in the Philippine jungles shaped both family and company history. Listeners will be captivated by Zack’s reflections on the journey from a small, local agency to a thriving firm with over 50 employees, seeing how family legacy, thoughtful...
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Episode #13: Barrett Johnson, JF Property Group
The Behind the Brand Podcast
Dive into this engaging episode of Behind the Brand, where hosts Adam Hayes and Bob Paden sit down with Barrett Johnson, the dynamic managing broker behind JF Property Group. Barrett shares his fascinating journey from aerospace manufacturing to real estate, opening up about the pivotal moment he chose entrepreneurship and never looked back. Listeners will discover how Barrett’s passion for connecting with people fuels his business approach and learn what sets JF Property Group apart—namely, a team-first mentality and an innovative, consumer-friendly commission structure that puts more...
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Episode #12: Nathan Nichols, Storie Co.
The Behind the Brand Podcast
Nathan Nichols, co-founder of Storie Co., joins Bob Paden and Adam Hayes for an inspiring conversation about entrepreneurial grit, hospitality, and finding “riches in the niches.” Storie Co. is an Indianapolis-based firm that invests in, develops, and manages resort real estate throughout the Midwest, focusing on properties that immerse guests in the outdoors and local experiences. Nathan shares how his unconventional journey—from busser to asset manager for a $1.5 billion portfolio—shaped his unique approach to hospitality and business building. Listeners will discover how Storie Co....
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Episode #11: James Bennett, Bennett Services
The Behind the Brand Podcast
James Bennett, founder of Bennett Services, sits down with Bob Paden and Adam Hayes to share his entrepreneurial journey and the heart behind his success in the steel detailing industry. On this episode of Behind the Brand, James opens up about his family roots in steel work, the crucial role of detailing in construction, and what inspired him to carve out his own niche after years working alongside his father. From operating a fully remote team spread across the U.S. to facing industry shifts and competition from overseas, James provides an honest look at the challenges and rewards of...
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Episode #10: Paul Swartz, Hoosier Shooting Academy
The Behind the Brand Podcast
Step into another enlightening episode of Behind the Brand as hosts Adam Hayes and Bob Paden sit down with Paul Schwartz, founder of Hoosier Shooting Academy. In this candid conversation, Paul takes us on a journey from his roots as a high school coach and PE teacher to his evolution into a passionate entrepreneur and CEO. For nearly two decades, Paul has dedicated himself to the art and science of basketball development, drawing from experiences working with NBA all-stars, college athletes, and young players alike. Paul shares the story behind Hoosier Shooting Academy—a unique training...
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Episode #9: Ron Brumbarger, HomeGrown Apprenticeships
The Behind the Brand Podcast
In this episode, hosts Adam Hayes and Bob Paden sit down with the multifaceted entrepreneur, educator, and innovator, Ron Brumbarger. Ron opens up about his journey from early entrepreneurial sparks in the '90s—after a few too many goodbyes from traditional employers—to becoming a catalyst for creative problem-solving and design thinking in Indiana’s business community. Discover how Ron’s passion for entrepreneurship transformed into not only launching successful ventures—including Bitwise and Apprentice University—but also mentoring the next generation as Entrepreneur-in-Residence...
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Episode #8: Sarah Kendrick, RHEA Services
The Behind the Brand Podcast
In this insightful episode of the Behind the Brand podcast, hosts Adam Hayes and Bob Paden sit down with Sarah Kendrick, founder of RHEA Services, to explore the unique and deeply meaningful business she has created. Sarah shares her personal journey from a 14-year career as a music therapist to starting RHEA Services in 2020—driven by her own family's experience with sudden loss and the challenges that come with managing essential but often overlooked details during difficult times. Raya Services specializes in helping individuals and families capture and organize vital personal and...
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Episode #7: Pete Brown, ASH Interactive
The Behind the Brand Podcast
In this episode of Behind the Brand, hosts Adam Hayes and Bob Paden sit down with Pete Brown, founder of Ash Interactive, for a candid and insightful conversation about entrepreneurship, creativity, and the realities of building a business from the ground up. Pete shares his journey from growing up in Michigan and starting out as an elementary school teacher, to making the leap into the world of technology, video production, and ultimately launching Ash Interactive. He opens up about the challenges and rewards of transitioning from a solo freelancer to building a team, and the importance of...
info_outlineStep into an inspiring and heartfelt episode of Behind the Brand as hosts Bob Paden and Adam Hayes sit down with Tony Trent, business developer at HP Legacy and former small business owner. Tony shares his unique journey from running his own successful landscaping business for 18 years to embracing a new chapter in commercial construction with HP Legacy, a company known for its transparent, client-first approach to building and renovating commercial spaces across Indiana.
In this candid conversation, Tony opens up about the challenges and rewards of transitioning from business ownership to business development, offering valuable advice for entrepreneurs navigating similar paths. He discusses trends in commercial real estate, the importance of exploring incentives like tax abatements and solar rebates, and why choosing the right partner is about more than just price—it’s about trust, service, and integrity.
But this episode goes deeper than business. Tony bravely recounts the personal journey of his family as they faced his son Tyler’s battle with osteosarcoma, the impact of loss, and how Tyler’s legacy continues to inspire hope and drive meaningful change through pediatric cancer research. Tony’s story is a testament to resilience, community, and the power of purpose-driven work.
Whether you’re a business owner, aspiring entrepreneur, or simply seeking a story of perseverance and heart, this episode offers wisdom, warmth, and a reminder that behind every brand is a powerful human story.
Watch the Full Podcast Here