Episode 31: Capturing the Market with Greg Sproul
Business Blueprints
In this episode of Business Blueprints, Bryan sits down with Greg Sproul, founder of Captured Listings, to talk about turning a side hustle into a growing real estate media business. Greg shares how he built his company on word of mouth and organic marketing—without traditional advertising. They explore what it takes to scale a seasonal service business, the challenges of hiring, and the nuances of working in both standard and luxury markets. Greg also opens up about the shifting content landscape, viral clips, and why creating value goes beyond just showing up with a camera. Whether you're...
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Episode 30 - Hugh Rumbaugh
Business Blueprints
In this episode of Business Blueprints, Bryan sits down with Hugh Rumbaugh, a construction entrepreneur who’s built a multi-business portfolio across masonry, roofing, remodeling, insurance, and materials. Hugh shares how he transitioned from working in the field to owning and integrating ten companies under one umbrella. They discuss how to evaluate acquisition opportunities, maintain culture through ownership transitions, and build teams that operate independently. Hugh explains why he prioritizes lean, profitable companies with strong operators—and how he approaches post-sale...
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Episode 29 - Justin Escajeda | Escajeda Masonry
Business Blueprints
In this episode of Business Blueprints, Bryan sits down with Justin Escajeda of Escajeda Masonry to unpack what it takes to grow a construction business without losing control or culture. Justin shares his journey from working in the field to acquiring and overseeing multiple businesses across trades. He talks through the challenges of transitioning out of daily operations, trusting leaders, and maintaining efficiency across companies. The conversation covers how to evaluate a business for acquisition, the importance of post-sale transitions, and why not every deal is worth doing. They...
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Episode 28 - Mike Claudio | WinRate Consulting
Business Blueprints
In this episode of Business Blueprints, Bryan sits down with Mike Claudio, founder of WinRate Consulting and ZDM Marketing, for a candid conversation on leadership, scaling, and personal growth. Mike shares insights from a full day spent coaching Bryan’s team, emphasizing the importance of evolving leadership alongside business growth. They discuss the challenges of hitting growth plateaus, building effective systems, and the emotional toll of leading through rapid scaling. The episode explores how leaders must transition from doers to strategic guides, the risks of miscommunication with...
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Episode 27 - Al Farah | Build412
Business Blueprints
In this episode of Business Blueprints, host Bryan Bercik sits down with Al Farah to explore the journey of building a successful contracting business and navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship in the construction industry. Al shares how he got his start in the business, from early experiences in the field to the pivotal moments that led him to establish and grow his own company. The conversation highlights the importance of discipline, strategic decision-making, and building strong relationships to sustain long-term success. The discussion also covers key industry insights, including...
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Episode 26 - Brian Kirchner
Business Blueprints
In this episode of Business Blueprints, Bryan sits down with Brian Kirchner from City Life Group to discuss the journey of building a real estate investment and management powerhouse in Pittsburgh. They explore the early days of starting in real estate, the pivotal moments that led to launching City Life, and the strategic decisions that shaped their growth. The conversation delves into the complexities of running a brokerage, investing in properties, and scaling a business while maintaining operational efficiency. Brian shares insights on why they initially pursued a ReMax franchise, the...
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Episode 25 - EJ Pettiford
Business Blueprints
In this episode of Business Blueprints, host Brian welcomes tattoo artist EJ Pettiford, who has been pursuing his lifelong dream of tattooing in the Pittsburgh area for five years. EJ shares his journey, highlighting the various jobs and experiences that led him to finally achieve his goal. He discusses his current position at Crimson Lotus Collective, where he works alongside mentors who have significantly influenced his creative growth in the tattoo industry. The episode reflects on the importance of meaningful conversations and planning, with Brian and EJ reminiscing about their many car...
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Episode 24 - Bradley Jacobs
Business Blueprints
In this episode of Business Blueprints, guest Bradely Jacobs joins Bryan to discuss the power of focusing on a single business model before branching out into new ventures. The conversation highlights the pitfalls of “scatterbrain syndrome,” where entrepreneurs attempt to juggle multiple income streams, often at the expense of true mastery and success. Drawing from real-world experiences, the speakers share insights on building a strong foundation by concentrating on one area, such as flipping homes or multifamily properties, before diversifying. They delve into lessons learned about...
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Episode 23 - Jim Fredo
Business Blueprints
In this episode of Business Blueprints, Bryan interviews Jim Fredo from Spring Capital Partners about his transition from corporate America to real estate investing. Jim shares lessons learned from early mistakes and discusses his investment strategies, including conservative financial practices and managing multifamily properties. Bryan and Jim delve into key aspects of property management, from tenant relations to renovations. They discuss the importance of vertical integration, using project management tools like Asana, and maintaining integrity in construction. Bryan also reflects on the...
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Episode 22 - Phil Pagliari
Business Blueprints
In episode 22 of Business Blueprints, Bryan welcomes Phil Pagliari, a multifaceted individual who is a Christian, father, husband, pastor at Valley Remnant Church, designer, and freelancer. The episode dives into Phil's inspiring journey, highlighting the significant transformations he has undergone since high school. Phil shares his experiences, starting from his graduation in 2004, his brief stint at Pittsburgh Technical Institute, and his early ventures from the streets of Denora. Despite a tumultuous start, Phil's story is one of resilience and continuous growth, showcasing his commitment...
info_outlineTHE POWER OF EDUCATION
In this one, Bryan is joined by a person he has known for a very long time, Daniel Costantino of Achieve Capital Partners! The guys go over some war stories and Dan's most recent nightmare that has now turned out into a great thing. He also explains how he got his start and how a mastermind group changed his life. His biggest piece of advice on how to learn is "Get around the people who do what you want to do". Also who doesn't love hearing some crazy covid business stories?!
You will become a better leader after listening to this one, listen up!
Achieve Capital Partners is a leading private equity real estate firm that offers stable, high-yield returns to accredited investors. Their investment options are comprised of multi-family housing throughout the Greater Pittsburgh area and have been growing steadily since founded.
Vertically integrated, they have in-house property management, maintenance, and construction which gives them the ultimate control over investment assets.
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