Succession Stories

Succession Stories is an award-winning podcast guiding entrepreneurs through the journey of transition to transaction, with an exclusive limited series called The Entrepreneur Gene™ Hosted by Laurie Barkman—The Business Transition Sherpa®, nationally recognized business advisor, and Amazon best-selling author of *The Business Transition Handbook*—the show explores the full entrepreneurial lifecycle: from growth to maturity, value creation to exit planning, succession, and M&A for owner-led companies. If you’re an entrepreneur looking for inspiration to build a more valuable business, or a business owner seeking the best way to transition or sell your closely held company, this podcast is for you. Each episode provides actionable insights, expert conversations, and real-world stories to help you navigate one of the most important chapters in your entrepreneurial journey. 🎙️ Learn more at https://btsherpa.com

229: Profit From What You Know with James Allen, Profit Your Knowledge 05/03/2026

229: Profit From What You Know with James Allen, Profit Your Knowledge "Don't do what you think the world needs, do what makes you come alive." Most entrepreneurs sitting on decades of hard-won expertise have no idea that knowledge alone could be their next business. James Allen is the founder of Profit Your Knowledge, a platform helping coaches, creators, and experts turn what they know into scalable, freedom-based online businesses. He left a six-figure union construction career at 22 with no roadmap, just a belief that he'd only make money doing things he enjoyed. James shares the frameworks, mindset shifts, and practical systems behind monetizing expertise and why this conversation matters deeply for founders thinking about what comes after their current chapter. Key Insights The Expert Paradox is real — and it's costing you. The more qualified you are to solve a problem, the less impressive it feels to you. What seems ordinary to you could be exactly what someone else is desperate to learn and willing to pay for. Use the Income Intersection Framework to find your profitable idea. The sweet spot lives at the intersection of three things: something you have experience with, something people are actively paying money to learn, and something you genuinely enjoy teaching. All three must be present. You can't figure out your niche in your head — you have to talk to people. Worksheets and solo brainstorming only go so far. Real clarity comes from getting into conversations, working with people, and discovering who energizes you and who doesn't. Charge for outcomes, not hours. Packaging your expertise into a high-value offer — rather than selling single sessions — is what creates both income and freedom. One $10,000 client beats a hundred $100 sessions every time. YouTube is the most leveraged long-term system for coaches and experts. Consistent, niche-specific content compounds over time, brings the right people to you, and converts viewers into paying clients — even at 12 subscribers and 17 videos. Your next chapter doesn't have to be a cold stop. For founders stepping back from their current business, monetizing expertise creates a natural on-ramp to what's next — a way to stay alive, relevant, and financially active without starting from zero. Chapters: 00:00 - 01:35 - Introduction and James's Origin Story 02:20 - 03:28 - Growing Up, Personal Development 03:29 - 05:30 - Leaving Construction & Taking the Leap 05:55 - 08:02 - The Knowledge Monetization and The Expert Paradox 08:03 - 09:10 - You’re Undervaluing What You Know 09:11 - 10:38 - Real Client Stories: Landing a deal even with 12 videos 11:25 - 16:49 - Building a Business & Finding Your Niche 16:50 - 17:50 - Time Saving & Creating Your Own Process 17:51 - 25:10 - Systems and Pricing: How to Work Less and Earn More 25:37 - 26:20 - The On-Ramp/Off-Ramp for Founders Eyeing Their Next Chapter 26:21 - 27:38 - Rapid Fire: Books, Tools, Mistakes, and Best Advice 27:39 - 29:16 - What Succession Means to James Allen Is your business truly ready—and are you? Take the Succession Readiness Assessment to get a clear snapshot of where you stand and what to focus on next. P.S. Most owners don’t realize where they stand until they’re already in a transition. Take a few minutes now to understand your readiness—and give yourself more options later. Connect with Laurie Barkman: Website: LinkedIn: YouTube: Connect with James Allen: Website: YouTube: Email: 📖 Get your FREE digital copy of The Business Transition Handbook 📣 Write a Podcast Review: This Show Is Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa® Learn what every entrepreneur needs to know about building value and avoiding pitfalls! /episode/index/show/successionstories/id/41062120

228: Scaling Smart, Exiting Intentionally with Bruce Eckfeldt 04/08/2026

228: Scaling Smart, Exiting Intentionally with Bruce Eckfeldt "Exit planning is good business, not just about exits. Doing exit planning is going to help your business today." Too many founder CEOs pour years into scaling their company without ever building a plan for what comes next — and it costs them. Bruce Eckfeldt is a former Inc. 500 CEO who scaled, led, and exited his own company, and now coaches founder CEOs to do the same with intention. He faced the reality of an unplanned post-exit life firsthand — and what he discovered changed how he coaches everyone who comes after him. Key Insights: Exit planning improves your business today, not just at the finish line. Treating your business as if it could be sold tomorrow forces clarity in strategy, leadership, and operations — giving you a stronger company whether you sell or not. Develop a compelling post-exit vision first. When founders have a clear, exciting plan for what comes after, they become more motivated to grow faster, set tighter timelines, and make better decisions leading up to a transaction. Founder dependency in sales is the riskiest — and hardest — constraint to break. When the founder is the rainmaker, it suppresses valuation, complicates deals, and is fueled by a dopamine cycle that's genuinely difficult to step away from. Institutional knowledge must replace individual knowledge to scale. Brilliant technical founders often are the smartest person in the room — but a company built around one person's intellect cannot scale or transact at full value. Know where you fall in the valuation range — and move the levers. The market sets the multiple range; what you can control is whether you land in the bottom, middle, or top third of it by addressing the fundamentals buyers care about most. The "keep-sell posture" protects your negotiating power. Being genuinely ready to either sell tomorrow or hold for another decade removes desperation from the table and ensures you're choosing the right deal — not just the first one. Chapters 00:00 - 01:51 Introductions 01:52 - 05:24 Bruce’s Founder Journey as Inc. 500 CEO 05:25 - 06:48 The Architectural Thinking Behind Scaling a Company 06:49 - 08:04 Why Scale and Exit Planning Are Connected from Day One 08:05 - 09:25 Building a Post-Exit Vision That Motivates Faster Growth 09:26 - 10:51 Founder's Identity and System Building 10:52 -12:30 Founder Dependency: The Sales Dopamine Trap 12:31 - 14:46 When Intellectual Capital Is Trapped in the Founder's Head 15:22 - 18:56 Exit Readiness and Push & Pull Factors across Generations 18:57 - 21:19 Legacy Building 21:20 - 24:33 What makes a Business Valuable 24:45 - 25:45 Bruce's Three Takeaways for Every Founder 26:00 - 26:36 Life After Exit: Himalayas, Adventure, and What Comes Next Is your business truly ready—and are you? Take the Succession Readiness Assessment to get a clear snapshot of where you stand and what to focus on next. P.S. Most owners don’t realize where they stand until they’re already in a transition. Take a few minutes now to understand your readiness—and give yourself more options later. Connect with Laurie Barkman: Website: LinkedIn: YouTube: Connect with Bruce Eckfeldt Website: Email: LinkedIn: 📣 Write a Podcast Review: This Show Is Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa® Learn what every entrepreneur needs to know about building value and avoiding pitfalls! /episode/index/show/successionstories/id/40772740

227: Protecting People, Legacy, and Culture with Amy Veltri, NGE 03/19/2026

227: Protecting People, Legacy, and Culture with Amy Veltri, NGE "The day you start your business, you should know your exit strategy." Host Laurie Barkman sits down with Amy Veltri, Co-Founder and CEO of NGE, an environmental and geotechnical engineering firm. Amy built the company with her brother nearly 20 years ago, and made the deliberate choice to transition to 100% employee ownership through an ESOP. Amy shares the personal journey of weighing a third-party sale, doing nothing, or choosing a path that protected the people who helped build the business. Celebrating 6 Years of Succession Stories This episode is part of a special milestone—celebrating 6 years of the Succession Stories Podcast. Thank you for being part of this journey, where we explore the real stories, decisions, and strategies behind building, transitioning, and exiting businesses. This episode was filmed in front of a live studio audience in partnership with the Exit Planning Institute Pittsburgh Chapter, bringing the conversation to life with an engaged community of advisors and business owners. Key Episode Insights Co-founding a business with a sibling requires clear operating agreements to protect both the relationship and the company Drive may be an innate entrepreneurial trait, but skills like communication and judgment can be learned Knowing your exit strategy from day one shapes how you build and grow your business An ESOP can be financially compelling — tax savings alone can nearly offset transaction costs Employees who become owners are motivated to grow company value for themselves and future colleagues Leadership succession planning requires intentionality — and starting the search early enough to find the right fit CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and the Entrepreneurial Gene 02:00 Co-Founding NGE with Her Brother — and Making It Work 08:00 Scaling from $50K to $5M in Five Years 09:15 Challenges when scaling the business 11:30 The Three Exit Options for a Service-Based Business 14:00 Why a Near-Closing Third-Party Sale Changed Everything 15:30 Understanding ESOPs and the Feasibility Study Process 17:00 The ESOP Magic — Tax Benefits and Employee Engagement 21:00 Leadership Succession and the Search for Amy's Replacement 22:25 What's Next: Retiring, Grandbabies, and Letting Go Is your business truly ready—and are you? Take the Succession Readiness Assessment to get a clear snapshot of where you stand and what to focus on next. P.S. Most owners don’t realize where they stand until they’re already in a transition. Take a few minutes now to understand your readiness—and give yourself more options later. Connect with Laurie Barkman: Website: LinkedIn: YouTube: Connect with Amy Veltri: Website: Email: aveltri@ngeconsulting.com /episode/index/show/successionstories/id/40488750

226: Building Value Beyond the Founder: The Structural Capital Advantage, Steve Preda 03/08/2026

225: How Smart Business Owners Plan For The Unexpected with Scott Arden 02/08/2026

225: How Smart Business Owners Plan For The Unexpected with Scott Arden "No one's promised tomorrow." Host Laurie Barkman talks with Scott Arden, Chairman of Controllers Ltd and Managing Partner of Generational Wealth Solutions, about the intricacies of financial strategies for business owners. Controllers Limited focuses on advanced strategies for asset protection and generational wealth. Focusing on growth, succession planning, and the importance of legacy, Scott emphasizes the need for business owners to prepare for transitions, whether through exit strategies or succession planning, and highlights the significance of teaching financial literacy to future generations. The conversation also touches on the psychological aspects of business ownership and the value of experiences over mere accumulation of wealth. Key Insights Business owners often procrastinate on succession planning due to a false sense of security. Crucial to identify who will run the business in case of an owner's incapacitation. Protecting asset value can be as important as building asset value. Experiences and memories may be more valuable than simply accumulating wealth. Financial literacy is essential for future generations to manage inherited wealth. Engage the next generation in business operations or governance. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Financial Strategies for Business Owners 02:35 Understanding Business Growth and Exit Strategies 05:28 The Importance of Succession Planning 10:30 Psychology of Business Transition and Legacy 14:34 Rethinking Wealth: Experiences Over Accumulation 17:19 Teaching Financial Literacy to Future Generations This Show Is Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa® Learn what every entrepreneur needs to know about building value and avoiding pitfalls! 📖 Get your FREE digital copy of The Business Transition Handbook 📣 Write a Podcast Review: Connect with Laurie Barkman: Website: LinkedIn: YouTube: Connect with Scott Arden: Website: Website: LinkedIn: /episode/index/show/successionstories/id/40033945

224: The B.U.I.L.T.™ Method for Business Growth and Transition with Laurie Barkman 01/25/2026

224: The B.U.I.L.T.™ Method for Business Growth and Transition with Laurie Barkman 🎙️ Business growth and succession planning start long before an exit. In this special Succession Stories swapcast, Laurie Barkman introduces the B.U.I.L.T.™ Method, a practical framework for building value and preparing for business transition. 🔓 This episode features Laurie’s guest appearance on The B2B Growth Podcast with Mark Osborne, where the mic is turned around and she shares the thinking behind the B.U.I.L.T.™ Method for Business Growth and Transition. Designed for founder-led and closely held companies, the framework helps owners reduce dependency on themselves, strengthen operations, and prepare for leadership transition or exit — on their terms. 🎯 This conversation is especially relevant for owners in the built environment, including construction, engineering, architecture, and related professional services, where complexity, people, and relationships make transition planning both critical and challenging. 📊 The B.U.I.L.T. Method explained… Why succession planning should be integrated into business growth How the B.U.I.L.T. Method helps build transferable enterprise value Common transition challenges for built-environment companies How owners can prepare for what’s next without rushing an exit 💬 Standout insight: “Gen X business owners have seen what happens when owners never step away — and we want something better.” - Laurie Barkman 🧭 If you’re thinking about business growth, succession, or transition planning, this episode offers a clear, structured approach to building a stronger, more resilient company — long before an exit is on the table. This Show Is Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa® Learn what every entrepreneur needs to know about building value and avoiding pitfalls! 📖 Get your FREE digital copy of The Business Transition Handbook 📣 Write a Podcast Review: Connect with Laurie Barkman: Website: LinkedIn: YouTube: /episode/index/show/successionstories/id/39867630

223: Optometrist to Tech Maven, Journey in Revolutionizing Eye Care with Dr. Brianna Rhue 12/14/2025

223: Optometrist to Tech Maven, Journey in Revolutionizing Eye Care with Dr. Brianna Rhue In this episode, Laurie Barkman is joined by Dr. Brianna Rhue, optometrist, entrepreneur, and co-founder of Dr Contact Lens. Brianna shares her journey from a private practice owner to a tech maven, driven by the need to solve a critical "leaky bucket" problem: doctors losing contact lens sales to online retailers. She discusses the "entrepreneurial gene", the power of a "chip on your shoulder", and the lessons learned in building a full-blown tech platform from scratch. 💬 Quote from Brianna: “You have to get a really thick skin... as an entrepreneur, you are going to pave roads and you're gonna get arrows shot at your back. You're gonna get knocked off, you're gonna get made fun of... And if you don't have that core belief in yourself of your why, it makes those days really, really hard.” Key Takeaways: 💡 How the "entrepreneurial gene" is planted by early exposure to risk and observing the "ups and downs". 👥 Why a "chip on your shoulder," often formed from childhood experiences, can be essential energy for an entrepreneur. 💰 The steep transition from medicine to tech, and learning a new language of SaaS, CAC (Customer Acquisition Cost), and LTV (Lifetime Value). 🏦 How Doctor Contact Lens solves the "leaky bucket" problem of doctors losing recurring revenue to online retailers. 🤝 Brianna's "Three Frogs" method for daily productivity: one joy, one easy, and one hard task to move the business forward. 🎧 Tune in to Succession Stories to learn how to identify a major pain point in your industry and build a tech solution to solve it. This Show Is Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa® Learn what every entrepreneur needs to know about building value and avoiding pitfalls! 📖 Get your FREE digital copy of The Business Transition Handbook: 📣 Write a Podcast Review: Connect with Laurie Barkman: Website: LinkedIn: YouTube: Connect with Dr. Brianna Rhue: LinkedIn: /episode/index/show/successionstories/id/39357430

222: Courageous Pivot From Corporate Job to Business Ownership with Aashay Kumar 11/30/2025

222: Courageous Pivot From Corporate Job to Business Ownership with Aashay Kumar 🎧 Tune in to learn the realities of entrepreneurship through acquisition, from the search process to surviving economic uncertainty in the first year. Laurie Barkman sits down with Aashay Kumar, owner of Tri-Form, Inc. Aashay shares his story of leaving a corporate career to buy an existing manufacturing business. He demystifies the process of entrepreneurship through acquisition. Listen in as Aashay reflects on his acquisition journey including stealth search process, securing an SBA loan, diligence misses, and the ups and downs of the first 15 months of ownership. 💬Quote from Aashay Kumar: “Take the approach of being a learner from day one. Always ask questions. Always do more research than you think you have to, and be humble throughout the process.” ________________________________________________________________________ Key Takeaways: 💡 Why buy vs. start: The value of buying a business with positive cash flow, especially if you don't have a specific problem you are trying to solve. 👥 Independent search vs. search fund: Why Aashay chose an independent path to maintain full ownership and control, rather than being diluted by a search fund. 💰 How to finance the deal: A look at navigating SBA loans, negotiating with multiple banks, and using a seller financing note to structure the deal. 🏦 The diligence "misses" to watch for: Aashay shares what he overlooked, including the condition of the building and smaller assets like a company truck. 🤝 "Fit first, financials second": Why the cultural fit and relationship with the prior owners (and their family members in the business) was a critical, non-negotiable part of the deal. This Show Is Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa® Learn what every entrepreneur needs to know about building value and avoiding pitfalls! 📖 Get your FREE digital copy of The Business Transition Handbook: 📣 Write a Podcast Review: Connect with Laurie Barkman: Email: LinkedIn: Book: YouTube: Connect with Aashay Kumar: LinkedIn: LinkedIn: /episode/index/show/successionstories/id/39132635

221: How to Finance a Business Transition or Acquisition, David Miller 11/02/2025

221: How to Finance a Business Transition or Acquisition, David Miller What does it take to finance a business transition or acquisition? In this episode, Laurie Barkman sits down with David Miller, Executive Vice President at Enterprise Bank, to demystify lending for business owners — from SBA loans to insider buyouts. David shares how banks assess deals, why management continuity matters most, and how entrepreneurs can become “bankable” when it’s time to grow or exit. 💬 Quote from David Miller: “Don’t think you can’t buy a business just because you’re not personally wealthy. If you have the right skillset and knowledge of the industry, there are flexible ways to make it happen.” Key Takeaways: 💡 How SBA loans act as an “insurance policy” for banks — and a growth tool for small businesses. 👥 Why insider buyouts often outperform private equity or third-party acquisitions. 💰 How to match financing structures to your business goals and cash flow needs. 🏦 What “being bankable” really means — and how to build it before you need it. 🤝 Why having the right professional team (CPA, attorney, advisor) is critical in any business transition. 🎧 Tune in to Succession Stories to learn practical strategies for financing growth, buying a business, or preparing for your own successful exit. This Show Is Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa® Get your copy of The Business Transition Handbook, the Amazon best-selling book that reveals what every entrepreneur needs to know about building value and avoiding pitfalls! ✨📖 Get your FREE digital copy of The Business Transition Handbook: 📣 Write a Podcast Review: _________________________________________________________________ Connect with Laurie Barkman: Email: LinkedIn: Book: YouTube: Connect with David Miller: Website: LinkedIn: Special thanks to Ryan Nolf, Marketing Director, for producing this Succession Stories episode live in studio at Enterprise Marketing. /episode/index/show/successionstories/id/38780965

220: Steep Learning Curves, Brandon Stanchock - The Entrepreneur Gene Series 10/19/2025

220: Steep Learning Curves, Brandon Stanchock - The Entrepreneur Gene Series Host Laurie Barkman welcomes Brandon Stanchock, CEO of SWF Industrial Inc. Brandon discusses his journey to take the helm of a family business. He emphasizes the importance of leadership, employee development, and implementing innovative collaboration strategies in the industrial sector. The conversation also highlights Brandon's commitment to providing support for employees and internal promotion programs. Brandon shares how his personal interests in travel, gaming, and podcasting align with his broader mission to help people reach their full potential both inside and outside the workplace. Takeaways: Embrace the entrepreneurial gene. Leadership, innovation, and employee development are key traits for entrepreneurial success. Navigating leadership challenges. Leading a family business requires adaptability and a focus on collaboration to drive growth. Support employee growth. Providing support and promoting from within strengthens company culture and fosters employee loyalty. Focus on performance management and succession planning. Proper planning ensures long-term success for both leadership and employees. Align personal passions with business goals. Staying connected to passions like travel, gaming, and podcasting helps balance professional and personal growth. Quote of the Show: “ Give yourself some grace, give yourself some time.” - Brandon Stanchock This Show Is Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa® 100 percent of owners will leave their business one day. But few are prepared. Are you? Get your copy of the Amazon best-selling book by nationally recognized expert, Laurie Barkman that reveals how to build business value and plan for succession, transition, or selling the business on your terms....what every entrepreneur needs to know. ✨📖 Get your FREE digital copy of The Business Transition Handbook: 📣 Write a Podcast Review: _________________________________________________________________ Connect with Laurie Barkman: Email: LinkedIn: Book: YouTube: Connect with Brandon Stanchock: LinkedIn: Company website: /episode/index/show/successionstories/id/38387370

219: Find Passion, Don’t Just Chase The Dollar, Larry Whiteside Jr - The Entrepreneur Gene Series 10/14/2025

219: Find Passion, Don’t Just Chase The Dollar, Larry Whiteside Jr - The Entrepreneur Gene Series Host Laurie Barkman welcomes Larry Whiteside Jr., an expert in information security, risk management, and entrepreneurship. Larry discusses his journey from cybersecurity to becoming the Co-Owner of Lifesaver Pool Fence of Tampa and Co-Founder of Confide. Larry emphasizes the importance of passion, operational efficiency, and overcoming challenges in business. They delve into key trends in cybersecurity, focusing on AI and automation’s growing influence. The conversation also highlights Larry’s commitment to promoting diversity in the cybersecurity field and how his military background has shaped his entrepreneurial approach. He offers valuable insights on balancing multiple businesses, aligning passion with business ventures, and prioritizing strategic operational planning. Takeaways: Embrace the entrepreneurial gene. Outgoingness and exceptional storytelling are key traits for entrepreneurial success. Connecting with others and communicating your vision is essential. Navigating the transition to entrepreneurship. Financial instability and operational hurdles are common, but with perseverance and support from trusted partners, you can overcome these challenges. Promote diversity in your industry. Larry emphasizes the importance of fostering diversity in cybersecurity and encourages entrepreneurs to create more inclusive environments. Align passion with your business ventures. Staying connected to your passion helps maintain drive and resilience, especially during tough times. Focus on systemic operational planning. Managing multiple businesses requires trust in yourself and a strong commitment to strategic planning to ensure everything runs smoothly. Quote of the Show: “Passion will continue to drive you forward.” - Larry Whiteside Jr. This Show Is Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa® 100 percent of owners will leave their business one day. But few are prepared. Are you? Get your copy of the Amazon best-selling book by nationally recognized expert, Laurie Barkman that reveals how to build business value and plan for succession, transition, or selling the business on your terms....what every entrepreneur needs to know. ✨📖 Get your FREE digital copy of The Business Transition Handbook: 📣 Write a Podcast Review: _________________________________________________________________ Connect with Laurie Barkman: Email: LinkedIn: Book: YouTube: Connect with Larry Whiteside Jr.: LinkedIn: Company website: /episode/index/show/successionstories/id/38386455

218: The Maverick Mind of an Entrepreneur, Travis Howerton - The Entrepreneur Gene Series 10/12/2025

218: The Maverick Mind of an Entrepreneur, Travis Howerton - The Entrepreneur Gene Series “ Treat people well, work hard, have a plan.” Host Laurie Barkman welcomes Travis Howerton, a technology and security expert with over 25 years of experience. Travis shares his journey from federal service and the nuclear weapons program to becoming the Co-Founder and CEO of RegScale. They discuss the entrepreneurial gene, personality assessments in team dynamics, and the challenges of scaling a business. Travis emphasizes the importance of empathy, hard work, and strategic planning. He also highlights the potential of automation and AI in the compliance industry. Travis discusses his future goals of starting a venture capital arm to support aspiring entrepreneurs in East Tennessee and provides advice on problem-solving and growth. The conversation provides valuable insights for entrepreneurs navigating the complexities of building and scaling a business. Takeaways: Embrace risk-taking and innovation as key traits for entrepreneurial success. Cultivating a mindset that encourages experimentation and learning from failure can drive growth and open doors to new opportunities. Use personality assessments to enhance team collaboration. Understanding individual motivations and strengths helps build a more cohesive and effective team, ultimately contributing to a healthier company culture. Be prepared for the challenges of scaling a business. Focus on creating clear plans and strategies to navigate obstacles while emphasizing empathy and hard work to keep the team aligned and motivated. Consider giving back by supporting future entrepreneurs. Starting a venture capital arm or mentoring new talent can create a positive impact on your local community and contribute to the growth of the next generation of leaders. Quote of the Show: “Treat people well, work hard, have a plan.” - Travis Howerton This Show Is Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa® 100 percent of owners will leave their business one day. But few are prepared. Are you? Get your copy of the Amazon best-selling book by nationally recognized expert, Laurie Barkman that reveals how to build business value and plan for succession, transition, or selling the business on your terms....what every entrepreneur needs to know. ✨📖 Get your FREE digital copy of The Business Transition Handbook: 📣 Write a Podcast Review: _________________________________________________________________ Connect with Laurie Barkman: Email: LinkedIn: Book: YouTube: Connect with Travis Howerton: LinkedIn: Company website: /episode/index/show/successionstories/id/38386385

217: Nurturing Legacies, Corey Perlman - The Entrepreneur Gene Series 10/07/2025

217: Nurturing Legacies, Corey Perlman - The Entrepreneur Gene Series “ Don't be a jack of all social media sites, master of none.” Host Laurie Barkman interviews digital marketing expert Corey Perlman of Impact Social. They discuss Corey's entrepreneurial journey influenced by his parents' careers, the evolving landscape of digital marketing, and the role and potential of AI in the industry. Corey shares insights on building and managing successful teams, the importance of focusing on key social media platforms, and the power of video content. Additionally, he touches on his passion for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and his involvement in the Nurturing Fathers Program alongside his father, Mark. Listeners receive actionable digital marketing tips and inspiration for balancing entrepreneurship with personal purpose. Takeaways: Pay attention to what the market is asking for. Follow positive signals when exploring new business opportunities or services instead of pushing an idea that isn't gaining traction. Prioritize platforms that align with your target demographics instead of attempting to be active on all social media platforms. Focus on a few and do them exceptionally well. Focus on the emotional and cultural fit of potential team members rather than just their resume. Enthusiasm, a positive attitude, and a good cultural fit can often outweigh experience. Stay open to learning and adapting over time. The industry changes rapidly, and keeping updated with new tools and practices will help you and your business stay competitive. Quote of the Show: “ Don't be a jack of all social media sites, master of none.” - Corey Perlman This Show Is Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa® 100 percent of owners will leave their business one day. But few are prepared. Are you? Get your copy of the Amazon best-selling book by nationally recognized expert, Laurie Barkman that reveals how to build business value and plan for succession, transition, or selling the business on your terms....what every entrepreneur needs to know. ✨📖 Get your FREE digital copy of The Business Transition Handbook: 📣 Write a Podcast Review: _________________________________________________________________ Connect with Laurie Barkman: Email: LinkedIn: Book: YouTube: Connect with Corey Perlman: LinkedIn: Website: /episode/index/show/successionstories/id/38386270

216: The Sockfluencers: Spreading Happiness, John and Mark X. Cronin - The Entrepreneur Gene 10/05/2025

216: The Sockfluencers: Spreading Happiness, John and Mark X. Cronin - The Entrepreneur Gene “We’re in the business of making people happy!” John and Mark X. Cronin are father-son co-founders of John’s Crazy Socks. Host Laurie Barkman talks with John and Mark about the inspiring story of their unique business model, inclusion, and commitment to spreading happiness. Over half of their employees have differing abilities. The discussion covers innovative approaches to customer satisfaction, success metrics, notable initiatives like the Unity Sock, and their role as advocates for people with disabilities. The episode also touches on their engaging community activities such as the weekly dance party and custom sock designs. Mark and John highlight the profound impact entrepreneurship can have on individuals and communities. Takeaways: Focus on the positive impact your business can have in the community. A strong mission can differentiate your offerings from competitors. Know why you are in business and ensure your values are clear and driven through every action you take. Consider hiring people with different abilities. It can lead to better business practices and a highly motivated workforce. Engage with your customers on a personal level. Small touches like handwritten notes, added candies, and personalized messages can make a big difference. Quote of the Show: “ The customer can be dead wrong, but we're not in the business of being right. We're in the business of making people happy.” - Mark Cronin This Show Is Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa® 100 percent of owners will leave their business one day. But few are prepared. Are you? Get your copy of the Amazon best-selling book by nationally recognized expert, Laurie Barkman that reveals how to build business value and plan for succession, transition, or selling the business on your terms....what every entrepreneur needs to know. ✨📖 Get your FREE digital copy of The Business Transition Handbook: 📣 Write a Podcast Review: _________________________________________________________________ Connect with Laurie Barkman: Email: LinkedIn: Book: YouTube: Connect with John's Crazy Socks: LinkedIn: Website: /episode/index/show/successionstories/id/38386265

215: All In On Accountability, Molly McGrath - The Entrepreneur Gene 09/30/2025

215: All In On Accountability, Molly McGrath - The Entrepreneur Gene What’s the most important value to have when you’re running your own business? According to Molly McGrath, Founder of Hiring and Empowering Solutions, it’s accountability. Listen in as Host Laurie Barkman talks with Molly about her unique perspective on the entrepreneur gene - a desire for control and freedom, stemming from an anti-authoritarian mindset. Molly highlights the importance of teaching employees to be intrapreneurs, involving them in decision-making processes, and implementing incentive-based compensation models. The episode also emphasizes the significance of accountability, time management, and having a clear vision for both personal and professional growth. Takeaways: Make a list of tasks that drain your energy versus those that light you up. Use this list to create job descriptions and hire the right team members to take on these tasks. Establish a culture of accountability within your business. Hold daily huddles or weekly stakeholder meetings to discuss progress, challenges, and ideas. Provide employees with the resources and support needed to achieve their goals, fostering growth and fulfillment within your team. Begin planning your exit strategy early, so that you are prepared when the time comes for you to leave your business. Quote of the Show: “ When you have a board of directors in your life that supports you and shines a flashlight on you, it really helps.” - Molly McGrath This Show Is Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa® 100 percent of owners will leave their business one day. But few are prepared. Are you? Get your copy of the Amazon best-selling book by nationally recognized expert, Laurie Barkman that reveals how to build business value and plan for succession, transition, or selling the business on your terms....what every entrepreneur needs to know. ✨📖 Get your FREE digital copy of The Business Transition Handbook: 📣 Write a Podcast Review: _________________________________________________________________ Connect with Laurie Barkman: Email: LinkedIn: Book: YouTube: Connect with Molly McGrath: LinkedIn: Website: /episode/index/show/successionstories/id/38386255

214: Genetically Entrepreneur, Jim Haviland - The Entrepreneur Gene 09/29/2025

214: Genetically Entrepreneur, Jim Haviland - The Entrepreneur Gene What does six generations of entrepreneurship get you? Find out as Host Laurie Barkman talks with Jim Haviland, Business Operating System Coach at Impact Architects and Chief Operating Officer at CallPlease. Jim shares his insights on building and exiting organizations, the entrepreneurial gene, and the importance of exit planning. He discusses the significance of having a clear purpose, the necessity of mentors and operating systems, and offers advice on long-term planning for entrepreneurs. Tune in for valuable lessons and inspiration for both budding and experienced entrepreneurs. Takeaways: Implementing a structured operating system can greatly enhance your business's efficiency and success rate. It helps you grow faster and minimizes the risk of business failure. Define what 'done' looks like for your projects. Be clear and specific about your objectives to ensure everyone in the organization is aligned. Regularly dedicate time to long-term planning. Consider both a 10-year and a 3-year horizon and actively work towards those goals. Aim to build a business that is not just profitable but also a valuable asset that can be transferred or sold in the future. This includes minimizing owner dependency and investing in aspects that increase business value. Quote of the Show: “ If you want to build something that's really valuable, you can do that but you have to be serious about it. You don't just show up and punch the clock.” - Jim Haviland This Show Is Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa® 100 percent of owners will leave their business one day. But few are prepared. Are you? Get your copy of the Amazon best-selling book by nationally recognized expert, Laurie Barkman that reveals how to build business value and plan for succession, transition, or selling the business on your terms....what every entrepreneur needs to know. ✨📖 Get your FREE digital copy of The Business Transition Handbook: 📣 Write a Podcast Review: _________________________________________________________________ Connect with Laurie Barkman: Email: LinkedIn: Book: YouTube: Connect with Jim Haviland: LinkedIn: Website: /episode/index/show/successionstories/id/38386215

213: Balancing Business and Identity, Jennifer Bisceglie - The Entrepreneur Gene 09/28/2025

213: Balancing Business and Identity, Jennifer Bisceglie - The Entrepreneur Gene “ It's really hard out there. Other people will beat you up. You don't have to do it to yourself.” - Jennifer Bisceglie This week on The Entrepreneur Gene - a featured series of Succession Stories - Host Laurie Barkman talks with Jennifer Bisceglie, Founder and Executive Vice Chair of Interos. Jennifer discusses the concept of identity for owners- as part of the business and outside of your company. She shares the challenges of managing a business that heavily relies on U.S. federal contracts and navigating rapid administrative changes. Jennifer also talks about the impacts of AI on supply chain risk management, as well as the excitement to come within the field. Additionally, the episode highlights Jennifer’s advocacy for women in business and involvement with Women Impacting Public Policy International. Tune in for insights into building a scalable and valuable business, handling unpredictability, and maintaining a balanced life. Takeaways: Cultivate interests and activities outside your business to maintain a healthy work-life balance. This could include hobbies, family time, or community involvement. When the time is right, bringing in external leadership, such as a new CEO, can help scale your business. This allows you to focus on strategic aspects and areas where your expertise is most valuable. Clearly define your business's purpose and align your strategies to create value for your team and customers. Keep a broader perspective during challenging times. Identify what you can control and build resilience by focusing on these areas. This Show Is Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa® 100 percent of owners will leave their business one day. But few are prepared. Are you? Get your copy of the Amazon best-selling book by nationally recognized expert, Laurie Barkman that reveals how to build business value and plan for succession, transition, or selling the business on your terms....what every entrepreneur needs to know. ✨📖 Get your FREE digital copy of The Business Transition Handbook: 📣 Write a Podcast Review: _________________________________________________________________ Connect with Laurie Barkman: Email: LinkedIn: Book: YouTube: Connect with Jennifer Bisceglie: LinkedIn: Website: /episode/index/show/successionstories/id/38386190

212: Embracing Smart Risks, Casey Cheshire - The Entrepreneur Gene Series 08/26/2025

212: Embracing Smart Risks, Casey Cheshire - The Entrepreneur Gene Series “ The flip of one-to-one communication to a one-to-few communication is going to become priceless. It's all about connection.” - Casey Cheshire What kinds of risks are the ones worth taking when it comes to entrepreneurship? Casey Cheshire, CEO of Ringmaster Conversational Marketing, believes smart risks are the key to success. Host Laurie Barkman talks with Casey about the importance of risk tolerance, learning from failures, and the need for smart risk-taking in business. They also explore the future of marketing with the advent of AI and the significance of maintaining human connections in an increasingly automated world. Casey's military background, personal entrepreneurial journey, and passion for authentic marketing strategies provide a rich and engaging discussion on what it truly means to be an entrepreneur. Takeaways: Focus on creating meaningful relationships through various mediums to foster long-term success. View entrepreneurship as a muscle that can be developed with practice and effort. Engage in activities that build skills necessary for entrepreneurship, such as problem-solving and risk management. Take calculated, smart risks rather than reckless ones. Although challenging, niching down can lead to better targeting and business efficiency. Test narrow focuses to see if they drive better results without betting the farm. This Show Is Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa® 100 percent of owners will leave their business one day. But few are prepared. Are you? Get your copy of the Amazon best-selling book by nationally recognized expert, Laurie Barkman that reveals how to build business value and plan for succession, transition, or selling the business on your terms....what every entrepreneur needs to know. ✨📖 Get your FREE digital copy of The Business Transition Handbook: 📣 Write a Podcast Review: _________________________________________________________________ Connect with Laurie Barkman: Email: LinkedIn: Book: YouTube: Connect with Casey Cheshire: LinkedIn: Website: /episode/index/show/successionstories/id/37960110

211: Propensity and Passion, Christopher Antonopoulos- The Entrepreneur Gene Series 08/13/2025

211: Propensity and Passion, Christopher Antonopoulos- The Entrepreneur Gene Series “The big learning for me is leaning on your team, leaning on your network, leaning on your colleagues. Because you don't have the capacity to be thoughtful in all of these different areas.” - Christopher Antonopoulos What does it take to be an entrepreneur? Christopher Antonopoulos, CEO and Founder of Measured Results Marketing, claims the secret is the genetic propensity and how it combines with environmental factors. Christopher shares anecdotes about his journey from a resourceful childhood selling vegetables to leading a successful marketing firm. He and Laurie also discuss the future of marketing automation, the role of AI, and practical strategies for handling business uncertainties. Christopher offers insights into building effective teams, the importance of dealing with ambiguity, and leveraging networks for success. The episode is filled with valuable advice for entrepreneurs on embracing innovation and making impactful business decisions. Takeaways: Cultivate confidence in your decisions and actions. Don't let fear of failure prevent you from taking calculated risks. Develop the ability to make decisions with incomplete information. Comfort with ambiguity and a willingness to navigate uncertain situations is crucial. Always be open to learning, whether through formal education, mentorship, or experimenting within your business. Strive for a 360-degree view of your customers. Use analytics and insights to tailor your products and services to their needs and preferences. This Show Is Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa® 100 percent of owners will leave their business one day. But few are prepared. Are you? Get your copy of the Amazon best-selling book by nationally recognized expert, Laurie Barkman that reveals how to build business value and plan for succession, transition, or selling the business on your terms....what every entrepreneur needs to know. ✨📖 Get your FREE digital copy of The Business Transition Handbook: 📣 Write a Review: _________________________________________________________________ Connect with Laurie Barkman: Email: LinkedIn: Book: YouTube: Connect with Christopher Antonopoulos: LinkedIn: Website: /episode/index/show/successionstories/id/37650770

210: Crafting Family Legacies, Matt Chiaradonna - The Entrepreneur Gene Series 08/10/2025

210: Crafting Family Legacies, Matt Chiaradonna - The Entrepreneur Gene Series “ When it's built with your own hands or with your own will, I felt like it was a little bit more of my own success than somebody else doing it for me.” - Matt Chiaradonna Have you ever been thrown into running a business? Matt Chiaradonna, a family business entrepreneur leading JC Fence and Founder of Elite Technique sure has. Host Laurie Barkman talks with Matt about his journey from growing up in a family business, the impact of his father's tragic accident, and his path to operating two successful businesses. He offers advice on developing leaders, balancing legacy, and finding purpose both within and outside the business. This episode delves into the importance of grit, mentorship, and strategic growth in entrepreneurship. Takeaways: For entrepreneurs, establishing clear processes early on in the business can facilitate growth and make it easier to delegate tasks. Focus on identifying and nurturing potential leaders within the organization to drive future growth. Highlight the importance of traits such as determination, grit, and setting one's own destiny, which are prevalent in successful entrepreneurs. Emphasize the value of having a mentor who has successfully navigated similar challenges. This can provide guidance and insights that are pivotal for growth. This Show Is Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa® 100 percent of owners will leave their business one day. But few are prepared. Are you? Get your copy of the Amazon best-selling book by nationally recognized expert, Laurie Barkman that reveals how to build business value and plan for succession, transition, or selling the business on your terms....what every entrepreneur needs to know. ✨📖 Get your FREE digital copy of The Business Transition Handbook: 📣 Write a Podcast Review: _________________________________________________________________ Connect with Laurie Barkman: Email: LinkedIn: Book: YouTube: Connect with Matt Chiaradonna: LinkedIn: Website: Website: /episode/index/show/successionstories/id/37650715

209: Assembling Your Personal Board, Pete Schramm - The Entrepreneur Gene Series 08/06/2025

209: Assembling Your Personal Board, Pete Schramm - The Entrepreneur Gene Series “ I followed what's in my heart and I’m moving forward to fill this gap and this need for the workplace of the future.” - Pete Schramm Host Laurie Barkman interviews Pete Schramm, Founder and CEO of Lattitude. A serial entrepreneur, award-winning speaker, and bestselling author of Pathfinders, Pete is on a mission to foster meaningful, sustainable relationships in the workplace. As the founder of Lattitude, he’s cultivating leadership and engagement through career mapping and mentorship software. The episode touches on challenges in the workplace, especially with hybrid and remote work environments. Pete also highlights the necessity of marketing, sales, and having a clear game plan in business while sharing his passion for connecting people and giving back through various nonprofits. Takeaways: Focus on having a wonderful team around you to create enterprise value. Communication and intentional belonging are key to keeping the team aligned and motivated. Clearly and effectively communicate your game plan, start small with changes, but don't stop. Build trust and transparency with your team while managing change. Consider building a personal board of advisors to guide and support your entrepreneurial journey. Seek mentors who can provide diverse perspectives and insights. Regularly measure and understand the engagement, connection, and well-being of your team. Use tools like engagement surveys and share the results and planned actions. This Show Is Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa® 100 percent of owners will leave their business one day. But few are prepared. Are you? Get your copy of the Amazon best-selling book by nationally recognized expert, Laurie Barkman that reveals how to build business value and plan for succession, transition, or selling the business on your terms....what every entrepreneur needs to know. ✨📖 Get your FREE digital copy of The Business Transition Handbook: 📣 Write a Review: _________________________________________________________________ Connect with Laurie Barkman: Email: LinkedIn: Book: YouTube: Connect with Pete Schramm: LinkedIn: Website: /episode/index/show/successionstories/id/37650665

208: The Power of Influence, Cooper Munroe - The Entrepreneur Gene Series 08/03/2025

208: The Power of Influence, Cooper Munroe - The Entrepreneur Gene Series “I love giving voice to people who don't necessarily or historically have a voice with those who are selling to them.” - Cooper Munroe Host Laurie Barkman speaks with Cooper Munroe, CEO of The Motherhood, a leading influencer marketing agency. They delve into Cooper's journey from corporate PR to creating The Motherhood, sparked from a blog post about Hurricane Katrina. Cooper discusses the unique challenges and attributes of women entrepreneurs, the evolution of influencer marketing, and her commitment to paying influencers for their valuable work. Tune in to hear how Cooper transformed her vision into a thriving business and what she envisions for the future legacy of The Motherhood. Takeaways: Entrepreneurs should aim to find the balance between time and treasure early in their journey to avoid burnout and ensure the sustainability of their business. Work towards making your revenue stream more predictable. This can help in financial planning and provide stability for the business. Storytelling can be a powerful tool for connecting with your audience. Consider how your business can leverage storytelling to build a strong brand and engage customers. Always ensure that those contributing to your business, especially influencers and content creators, are fairly compensated for their work. This can foster loyalty and a positive working relationship. This Show Is Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa® 100 percent of owners will leave their business one day. But few are prepared. Are you? Get your copy of the Amazon best-selling book by nationally recognized expert, Laurie Barkman that reveals how to build business value and plan for succession, transition, or selling the business on your terms....what every entrepreneur needs to know. ✨📖 Get your FREE digital copy of The Business Transition Handbook: 📣 Write a Review: _________________________________________________________________ Connect with Laurie Barkman: Email: LinkedIn: Book: YouTube: Connect with Cooper Munroe: LinkedIn: Website: /episode/index/show/successionstories/id/37650630

207: Disruptive Innovation, Luke Williams - The Entrepreneur Gene Series 07/20/2025

207: Disruptive Innovation, Luke Williams - The Entrepreneur Gene Series “Entrepreneurship is in everyone. It just gets expressed in different ways.” Luke Williams Show host Laurie Barkman welcomes Luke Williams, Founder/CEO of IdeaSkills and Clinical Associate Professor of Innovation and Design at NYU Stern School of Business. They discuss whether entrepreneurship can be taught and delve into the importance of fostering innovative mindsets within established companies. Luke shares insights from his book 'Disrupt' and discusses the balance between maintaining business continuity and introducing disruptive ideas. Luke also emphasizes the significance of learning over investment and provides advice for business owners struggling with innovation. The episode concludes with Luke's journey from Australia to becoming an educator and innovation expert and his passion for creating more competent innovators. Takeaways: Continuously work on developing the capabilities needed to be competitive in the future alongside keeping the existing business running. This is crucial for maintaining a balance between today’s needs and future opportunities. Create diverse teams to ensure a wide range of perspectives and ideas. This diversity can foster innovative thinking and help develop balanced solutions that might not emerge from a homogenous group. Encourage the influx of fresh, disruptive thinking and assess the value of ideas based on how much they help the organization learn and adapt. Develop a “test and learn” budget to experiment with new ideas without the pressure of immediate returns. Allow small-scale testing of innovative ideas to see what works and can then be scaled up. This Show Is Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa® 100 percent of owners will leave their business one day. But few are prepared. Are you? Get your copy of the Amazon best-selling book by nationally recognized expert, Laurie Barkman that reveals how to build business value and plan for succession, transition, or selling the business on your terms....what every entrepreneur needs to know. ✨📖 Get your FREE digital copy of The Business Transition Handbook: 📣 Write a Review: _________________________________________________________________ Connect with Laurie Barkman: Email: LinkedIn: Book: YouTube: Connect with Luke Williams: LinkedIn: Website: Book: /episode/index/show/successionstories/id/37264155

206: Lions and Tigers and Entrepreneurs, Oh My! Brea Starmer - The Entrepreneur Gene Series 07/16/2025

206: Lions and Tigers and Entrepreneurs, Oh My! Brea Starmer - The Entrepreneur Gene Series “Simply treating people with respect, with dignity and agency, has been really counterculture and I hope that that becomes a more infectious and attractive way to work.” - Brea Starmer Host Laurie Barkman interviews Brea Starmer, Founder and CEO of Lions and Tigers. Brea shares her experience of turning a layoff into a successful business, her passion for empowering careers for women and mothers, and the unique approach of intrapreneurship. The discussion covers Brea's personal journey, the challenges she faced, the importance of values in business, and the exciting future of the industry. Takeaways: Hire support staff early on, such as operations and HR personnel, to allow you to focus on strategic areas like business development and leadership. Recognize the different stages of your business and life. Sometimes you’ll be optimized for growth and wealth, while at other times, the focus may shift to health and personal well-being. Maintain an active presence on professional networks such as LinkedIn to share your journey, connect with other entrepreneurs, and attract potential clients and employees. Concentrate on tasks that only you can do and delegate others. This ensures you are working on the most impactful areas of the business. This Show Is Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa® 100 percent of owners will leave their business one day. But few are prepared. Are you? Get your copy of the Amazon best-selling book by nationally recognized expert, Laurie Barkman that reveals how to build business value and plan for succession, transition, or selling the business on your terms....what every entrepreneur needs to know. ✨📖 Get your FREE digital copy of The Business Transition Handbook: 📣 Write a Review: _________________________________________________________________ Connect with Laurie Barkman: Email: LinkedIn: Book: YouTube: Connect with Brea Starmer: LinkedIn: Website: /episode/index/show/successionstories/id/37263880

205: Entrepreneurs Are Made if Not Born, Jaclyn Beatty - The Entrepreneur Gene Series 07/13/2025

205: Entrepreneurs Are Made if Not Born, Jaclyn Beatty - The Entrepreneur Gene Series “The really great exciting thing about entrepreneurship is even if you don't know from a young age that's the route you want to go, it's never too late to get there.” - Jaclyn Beatty Show host Laurie Barkman interviews Jaclyn Beatty, a seasoned sales professional and Owner/Principal Consultant of Geared for Growth at Sales Xceleration. Jaclyn shares her non-traditional journey to entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of the entrepreneurial gene and the belief that entrepreneurs can be made, not just born. They discuss the challenges of transitioning from a corporate sales leader to an entrepreneurial role and the benefits of the fractional sales industry. Jaclyn also provides advice to aspiring entrepreneurs and reflects on her career pivots from clinical dietitian to corporate sales leader. Takeaways: ~Don't hesitate to pursue your entrepreneurial dreams sooner rather than later. If you feel ready, take the plunge and trust your instincts. ~Be willing to accept help and advice from others, whether it’s through peer groups, mentors, or industry experts. You don't have to be an expert in every area of your business. ~Don’t be afraid to pivot from one industry to another if you feel drawn to it. Skills are often transferable, and a fresh perspective can lead to new opportunities. ~Learn to manage wearing multiple hats in your business. Prioritize and balance client deliverables with business development and operational tasks. This Show Is Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa® 100 percent of owners will leave their business one day. But few are prepared. Are you? Get your copy of the Amazon best-selling book by nationally recognized expert, Laurie Barkman that reveals how to build business value and plan for succession, transition, or selling the business on your terms....what every entrepreneur needs to know. ✨📖 Get your FREE digital copy of The Business Transition Handbook: 📣 Write a Review: _________________________________________________________________ Connect with Laurie Barkman: Email: LinkedIn: Book: YouTube: Connect with Jaclyn Beatty: LinkedIn: Website: /episode/index/show/successionstories/id/37263630

204: Risk, Resolve, Results, Harry Haywood - The Entrepreneur Gene Series 07/09/2025

204: Risk, Resolve, Results, Harry Haywood - The Entrepreneur Gene Series “I'm guilty of having always had the feeling of being proud, but not satisfied with my accomplishments. Once I get to one goal, I’m ready to move on to the next.” - Harry Haywood Host Laurie Barkman chats with Harry Haywood, President of HBS Solutions Inc. Harry shares insights on the importance of resilience, creativity, and overcoming criticism. With over 15 years of experience, he discusses the challenges of managing growth, building a strong leadership team, and the significance of time management. Harry also delves into his passion for energy efficiency and the evolving industry standards. Listeners will gain valuable advice on prioritization, goal tracking, and balancing business with personal life. Takeaways: ~Learn to maximize your productivity by valuing your time more, especially if you don’t have many personal responsibilities early in your entrepreneurial journey. ~Don’t try to handle everything yourself. Document processes, assign responsibilities, and ensure checks and balances are in place. This helps in managing growth more efficiently. ~Use a systematic approach to track progress towards goals in various aspects of your life, not just business-related but also personal, physical, and spiritual. ~Implement systems and processes to manage the complexities of business operations. Utilize third-party or customized tools to align the team and streamline workflows. This Show Is Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa® 100 percent of owners will leave their business one day. But few are prepared. Are you? Get your copy of the Amazon best-selling book by nationally recognized expert, Laurie Barkman that reveals how to build business value and plan for succession, transition, or selling the business on your terms....what every entrepreneur needs to know. ✨📖 Get your FREE digital copy of The Business Transition Handbook: 📣 Write a Review: _________________________________________________________________ Connect with Laurie Barkman: Email: LinkedIn: Book: YouTube: Connect with Harry Haywood: LinkedIn: Website: /episode/index/show/successionstories/id/37263295

203: Accidental Entrepreneurship, Jessica Kenyon - The Entrepreneur Gene Series 07/06/2025

202: Embracing Heliotropic Leadership with Dr. Harry Cohen - The Entrepreneur Gene Series 07/02/2025

202: Embracing Heliotropic Leadership with Dr. Harry Cohen - The Entrepreneur Gene Series “Have the confidence to say, "I believe in my mission and my purpose, and no matter what is in front of me, I will overcome those obstacles.” - Dr. Harry Cohen Host Laurie Barkman interviews Harry Cohen, President and CEO of Sunny Owl Productions and author of “Be the Sun, Not the Salt.” Learn the essential traits that differentiate entrepreneurs— like the ability to tolerate risk and navigate ambiguity, and the significance of instilling an entrepreneurial culture in both large corporations and family-owned businesses by having positive energy in your leadership. Catch Harry's advice how to foster kindness both in oneself and towards others. Takeaways: To succeed, entrepreneurs must tolerate risk, ambiguity, and difficulty. Cultivate a belief in your mission and purpose, and maintain confidence that you will overcome obstacles. Aim to create a positive impact on those around you. Be the "sun" not the "salt" by fostering psychological safety and making people feel valued and motivated. Use rituals and positive self-talk to maintain a confident and optimistic mindset before key moments, like giving presentations or meeting with clients. Whether in a corporate or family-owned business, cultivating a supportive and innovative culture is crucial. Encourage risk-taking and learning from failures rather than punishing them. This Show Is Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa® 100 percent of owners will leave their business one day. But few are prepared. Are you? Get your copy of the Amazon best-selling book by nationally recognized expert, Laurie Barkman that reveals how to build business value and plan for succession, transition, or selling the business on your terms....what every entrepreneur needs to know. ✨📖 Get your FREE digital copy of The Business Transition Handbook: 📣 Write a Review: _________________________________________________________________ Connect with Laurie Barkman: Email: LinkedIn: Book: YouTube: Connect with Harry Cohen: LinkedIn: Website: /episode/index/show/successionstories/id/37262965

201: Sewing for Space with Aleksandra Bogunovic - The Entrepreneur Gene Series 06/30/2025

201: Sewing for Space with Aleksandra Bogunovic - The Entrepreneur Gene Series Welcome to The Entrepreneur Gene! Host Laurie Barkman dives into the fascinating world of aerospace with Aleksandra Bogunovic, CEO of AeroThreads. Aleks turned her passion for sewing and fabrication into a thriving business that creates thermal blankets for spacecraft with materials that literally go to space! In this episode, we explore: Importance of grit in business. Aleks’ journey from working with NASA to founding AeroThreads. Challenges of leading a growing team in a rapidly evolving aerospace industry. Insights on maintaining company culture while scaling. Intersection of creativity and engineering in developing innovative solutions. Aleks shares her personal story, the influence of her immigrant family, and how her background in arts and finance shaped her entrepreneurial path. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or simply curious about the aerospace industry, this episode is packed with inspiration and valuable insights! Quote of the Show: “ Learn to trust your gut, even if you don't understand it.” - Aleksandra Bogunovic _________________________________________________________________ This Show is Sponsored by The Business Transition Sherpa® 100 percent of owners will leave their business one day. But few are prepared. Are you? Get your copy of the Amazon best-selling book by nationally recognized expert, Laurie Barkman that reveals how to build business value and plan for succession, transition, or selling the business on your terms....what every entrepreneur needs to know. ✨📖 Get your FREE digital copy of The Business Transition Handbook here: https://btsherpa.com/book _________________________________________________________________ Connect with Laurie Barkman: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauriebarkman/ Website: Connect with Aleks: LinkedIn: AeroThreads: /episode/index/show/successionstories/id/37179590

200: Why Start Exit Planning Now! Jim Carlisle 06/19/2025

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