Welcome back to The Entrepreneur’s Journey, hosted by Michael Pallozzi. In this episode, Michael sits down with John Moskola, co-owner of Watson & Sons Plumbing in Western Pennsylvania. With a background in cybersecurity for the Pentagon, John made an unexpected pivot into business ownership through the acquisition of a local plumbing company with his brother. They discuss the challenges of securing financing, navigating the SBA loan process, handling curveballs like environmental studies, and what it takes to successfully grow a family-run trade business in a modern world. This episode offers a candid look at making the leap from corporate life to entrepreneurship—and why trusting the process makes all the difference.

Tune into this episode to also learn:

● How to creatively finance a business acquisition without large upfront capital.

● Why adapting benefits packages is key to retaining talent in trades.

● The power of clearly divided roles in family-owned businesses.

● How side investments like real estate can support entrepreneurial ventures.

What we discussed

[00:01:01] John’s early exposure to the business and his career journey from IT and cybersecurity to plumbing.

[00:03:47] How John’s brother was approached to buy the plumbing business and the step-by-step acquisition plan.

[00:05:00] The funding process: SBA loans, seller financing, and borrowing from personal assets.

[00:07:56] Handling last-minute hurdles—like environmental surveys—during the buying process.

[00:08:16] Transitioning from cybersecurity to entrepreneurship with a young family and financial planning.

[00:10:07] Facing seasonality and industry slowdowns, especially during election years.

[00:11:35] Balancing partnership roles: operations vs. administrative vision.

[00:13:39] Modernizing the trade business by offering benefits and retirement plans.

[00:17:13] Expansion strategy: Opening a second location and adding new service lines.

[00:19:33] Balancing business ownership with family life and four kids.

[00:22:20] Diversification: Investing in real estate and long-term strategic planning.

[00:25:28] Future vision: Acquiring additional service businesses to build a one-stop home services company.

[00:26:29] John’s closing advice: Trust your gut, trust your team, and trust the process.

3 Things To Remember

1. You don’t need a large amount of cash to buy a business—creativity and the right team make all the difference.
2. Modernizing trade businesses with strong benefits and culture can be a competitive edge for recruiting and retaining talent.
3. Entrepreneurship is not just about growth—it’s about having a clear process, a supportive team, and the discipline to stay focused.

Useful Links

Connect with Michael Pallozzi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelpallozzihfm/

Like what you’ve heard…

Learn more about HFM HERE

Schedule time to speak with us

Welcome back to The Entrepreneur’s Journey. In this episode, host Michael Pallozzi sits down with Jayson Miletta, a 21-year-old recent graduate of Rowan University and already a seasoned entrepreneur. Jayson shares how he turned a backyard cornhole league into a national franchise, launched a digital marketing firm with automated outreach systems, and built a scalable business model rooted in partnership and performance. This conversation covers the evolution of Jayson's ventures, the systems behind his success, and his vision for the future—all before graduating college.

Tune into this episode to also learn:

Welcome back to The Entrepreneur’s Journey. In this episode, host Michael Pallozzi sits down with Jayson Miletta, a 21-year-old recent graduate of Rowan University and already a seasoned entrepreneur. Jayson shares how he turned a backyard cornhole league into a national franchise, launched a digital marketing firm with automated outreach systems, and built a scalable business model rooted in partnership and performance. This conversation covers the evolution of Jayson's ventures, the systems behind his success, and his vision for the future—all before graduating college.

● How Jayson scaled a cornhole league into a national franchise model.

● What it takes to cold-sell $100,000 franchises as a teenager.

● The difference between marketing “leads” and real business growth.

● How automation and AI are revolutionizing client acquisition.

What we discussed

[00:00:00] Jayson shares how he knew he wanted to be an entrepreneur after realizing basketball wouldn’t be his career path.

[00:03:57] Founding a national cornhole league and learning sales through trial and error.

[00:05:40] Jayson describes using Facebook Lamborghini groups for cold outreach—learning from 10,000 rejections.

[00:06:49] Launching Jersey Jays Cornhole and expanding into fundraisers with a mobile tournament model.

[00:10:02] His earliest ventures: flipping Silly Bands in kindergarten and starting a clothing brand in middle school.

[00:12:31] How he pivoted from web design to performance marketing and the launch of GDG Media.

[00:14:38] Transitioning to a rev-share business model that aligns agency success with client growth.

[00:16:19] Why most agencies fail by selling “leads” and how GDG measures success by revenue impact.

[00:18:24] Expanding into verticals like credit card processing to drive more value.

[00:22:22] How Jayson uses AI to automate email outreach and schedule meetings without manual input.

[00:24:49] Leveraging massive proprietary databases to target ideal customers for marketing campaigns.

[00:26:15] Jayson’s five-year vision: location flexibility, consulting, and continuous growth.

3 Things To Remember

1. Starting early allows more room for trial, failure, and ultimately faster growth.
2. Systems, automation, and mentorship are key to scaling a business while reducing stress.
3. Business models aligned with client success—like rev share—create long-term partnerships and impact.

Useful Links

Connect with Michael Pallozzi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelpallozzihfm/

Like what you’ve heard…

Learn more about HFM HERE

Schedule time to speak with us HERE

In this episode of The Entrepreneur's Journey, host Michael Pelosi sits down with David Kryszczak, founder of Spartan Digital, to explore his inspiring path from teenage tech support to leading a thriving digital marketing agency. Despite being only 26, Dave's journey spans entrepreneurial risk-taking, deep community involvement, and a remarkable personal story that includes classical music, shooting sports, and black bear hunting in Maine. This candid conversation unpacks the value of saying "yes" early and learning on the fly, and how Dave’s experiences shaped his success in marketing and leadership.

Tune into this episode to also learn:

• How early exposure to business and mentorship shaped Dave's entrepreneurial confidence.
• The journey from fixing computers at 14 to running a national marketing agency.
• The importance of relationships, community involvement, and remote work culture in modern business.
• How Spartan Digital uses AI and balances tech with human creativity in the marketing industry.

What we discussed

[00:00:00] Dave shares his first entrepreneurial steps as a tech-savvy teen and his introduction to networking through local chambers.

[00:06:06] Landing his first web design client and teaching himself how to build websites.

[00:10:13] The evolution from freelance work to founding Spartan Digital and gaining major clients like SERVPRO.

[00:12:49] Balancing academics with entrepreneurship and finishing an MBA while growing a business.

[00:14:02] Dave’s hunting experience in Maine and what it taught him about discipline and focus.

[00:20:17] Lessons from hunting and business: the power of mentorship, preparation, and team support.

[00:23:10] Building team loyalty and Spartan’s commitment to long-term partnerships over vendor relationships.

[00:25:35] How AI fits into Spartan’s operations and the future role of creative professionals.

[00:27:38] Who Spartan Digital serves best and the key problems they solve for service businesses.

3 Things To Remember

1. Confidence and relationship-building are cornerstones of lasting entrepreneurial success.
2. Saying yes and figuring it out along the way can lead to transformative growth and opportunity.
3. Building a strong team and culture is essential as your business scales beyond just yourself.

Memorable moments:

(00:06:20) "Do you build websites? That fast, I'm like, yep, gimme like five weeks. What's your budget?"

(00:11:30) "Do I go to class or do I go to this chamber dinner to try to meet more clients?"

(00:19:13) "Even if I don't shoot at anything, just to sit up there for 10 days and do nothing was such a pleasure."

Useful Links

Connect with David Kryszczak: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidkryszczak/

Connect with Michael Pallozzi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelpallozzihfm/

Like what you’ve heard…

Learn more about HFM

Welcome back to The Entrepreneur's Journey. In this episode, Michael is joined by Jim Bradley, founder of Precision Profit Strategies, to discuss his transformation from a corporate leader at companies like FedEx and Ready Pac Foods to a trusted advisor and coach for small businesses. Jim shares how his corporate experience with leadership development, lean manufacturing, and process improvement now serves his entrepreneurial mission: helping business owners build systems, develop leaders, and reclaim their time. This episode offers valuable takeaways for entrepreneurs looking to create scalable, self-sustaining businesses.

Tune into this episode to also learn:

● How lean methodology can drastically improve small business profitability.

● Why leadership development is key to increasing business value.

● What it means to be a “trusted advisor” in a business owner’s inner circle.

● The difference between working in the business vs. working on it.

What we discussed

● [00:02:06] Jim explains the mission of Precision Profit Strategies and how his firm helps business owners develop systems, leadership, and clarity around business health.

● [00:04:06] His career journey from machine operator to leadership roles at FedEx and the significance of FedEx’s leadership development training.

● [00:07:04] How lean principles work across industries and why they’re more about repurposing than cutting jobs.

● [00:10:09] The moment Jim realized the value of his expertise — while generating $20,000/week as a corporate consultant.

● [00:13:34] What finally pushed Jim to launch his own business, and how he positioned himself as a strategic advisor rather than just a consultant.

● [00:17:57] Why working with owners of small businesses is both rewarding and high impact.

● [00:21:00] What size and type of businesses benefit most from his services.

● [00:23:30] The difference between using EOS and mastering true leadership and accountability.

● [00:24:36] How listeners can reach Jim and start a conversation about their business needs.

3 Things To Remember

1. Jim’s experience across industries and companies like FedEx enables him to bring invaluable process and leadership tools to small business owners.
2. Lean methodology isn’t just for factories—it’s a mindset shift that can improve efficiency in any type of business.
3. Leadership development creates freedom for business owners and increases the value of their companies

Memorable moments:

(00:07:58) "Even in your line of work, Michael, you can apply these concepts and eliminate waste. Really. It's not just a production thing or field thing… it is administrative process."

(00:10:34) "Train your people, look through a particular lens, and once you see waste, you just can't unsee it."

(00:14:59) "I think the real thought process was back in 2016 when I was with ISI and people were giving me $20,000 checks a week… and those checks weren’t going to me."

In this episode of The Entrepreneur’s Journey, host Michael Pallozzi sits down with Bill McGrath, owner of South Jersey Elevator, to discuss his journey from working in the trades to launching and scaling his own successful elevator company. Bill shares his early influences, the pivotal moment that led him to take the leap into entrepreneurship, and the challenges he faced along the way. He also talks about the lessons he learned from his father, the importance of resilience, and the future of his company, including his son’s growing role in the business.

Tune into this episode to also learn:

• How Bill transitioned from being an electrician to running a thriving elevator business.
• 
  
• The sacrifices and risks involved in starting a company from scratch.
• 
  
• The role of family support in overcoming business challenges.
• 
  
• How South Jersey Elevator is positioning itself for future growth and sustainability.

What we discussed

[00:02:06] Bill’s early exposure to the trades and how his father pushed him to specialize.

[00:05:04] The journey of becoming an electrician and the additional certifications Bill pursued.

[00:07:30] How an unexpected job offer led Bill into the elevator industry.

[00:10:19] The corporate decision that pushed Bill toward entrepreneurship.

[00:12:19] The founding of South Jersey Elevator and its early challenges.

[00:15:40] Bill’s first major client and the importance of relationship-building.

[00:19:45] How a local business owner’s support reinforced Bill’s vision for growth.

[00:21:01] The expansion of South Jersey Elevator and the introduction of residential services.

[00:24:25] The impact of COVID-19 on business and how customer expectations have shifted.

[00:26:21] Bill’s vision for the future, including workforce development and industry leadership.

3 Things To Remember

1. Entrepreneurship requires sacrifice, but resilience and support from loved ones make a huge difference.
2. Strong relationships and honesty in business can lead to unexpected opportunities and long-term success.
3. Growth is about quality, not just size—focus on being the best in your industry rather than the biggest.

Useful Links

Connect with Bill McGrath: LinkedIn

South Jersey Elevator: https://sjelevator.com/

Connect with Michael Pallozzi: LinkedIn

Like what you’ve heard…

Learn more about HFM HERE

Welcome back to the Entrepreneur's Journey Podcast. In this episode, host Michael Pallozzi sits down with Tyler Hoehe, the fourth-generation owner of Ed's Body Shop in Bridgeton, NJ. Tyler shares her incredible journey from dreaming of a career in law enforcement to becoming the youngest entrepreneur featured on this podcast. Discover how her family's legacy influenced her decision to take over the business, the challenges she faced as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry, and how she's expanding the shop's services to include heavy-duty equipment repair. This conversation dives deep into her growth, passion, and dedication to carrying on her family's name.

Tune into this episode to also learn:

• How Tyler transitioned from criminal justice to entrepreneurship.
• The history and evolution of Ed's Body Shop, a four-generation family business.
• Challenges and perks of being a woman-owned business in a male-dominated industry.
• How Tyler expanded services to include heavy-duty equipment repair and towing.

What we discussed

• [00:00:32] Tyler's initial aspirations in criminal justice and her internship experience.
• [00:05:02] Her pivotal conversation with her grandfather about taking over the family business.
• [00:10:10] The challenges and stereotypes of running a woman-owned body shop.
• [00:17:02] Expanding Ed's Body Shop to include heavy-duty equipment repair.
• [00:20:06] Tyler's hopes for the next generation to carry on the family legacy.

3 Things To Remember

1. Family legacy and passion can inspire unexpected career paths.
2. Breaking gender stereotypes requires perseverance and proving capabilities.
3. Expanding services can breathe new life into longstanding businesses.

Useful Links

Connect with Michael Pallozzi: LinkedIn

Like what you’ve heard…

Learn more about HFM HERE

Schedule time to speak with us HERE

Welcome back to the Entrepreneur’s Journey, a podcast dedicated to exploring the paths of successful entrepreneurs. In this episode, Michael Pallozzi sits down with Ron Cuff, co-CEO of High Point Home Services and Brand President of High Point Roofing. Ron shares his inspiring journey of transitioning from construction labor in his youth to building, scaling, and successfully exiting businesses in the trades industry. Listen as they delve into his upbringing, early challenges, and eventual successes, culminating in the development of "Forge," a comprehensive educational platform for trades business owners. This episode is packed with actionable insights for aspiring and seasoned entrepreneurs alike.

Tune into this episode to also learn:

• The importance of finding the right partners to complement your skill set.
• How to structure your business with an exit plan in mind.
• Key strategies for transitioning from hands-on work to business ownership.
• The role of ethical and effective leadership in scaling a company.

What we discussed

• [00:00:50] Introduction to the Entrepreneur’s Journey podcast and guest, Ron Cuff.
• [00:02:10] Ron’s early experiences working with his father in construction and its impact on his entrepreneurial mindset.
• [00:06:45] The transition from college life to the professional world, and early lessons in sales and management.
• [00:13:45] The founding story of High Point Roofing and initial challenges faced during its startup phase.
• [00:18:10] Strategies used to outcompete larger firms and maintain momentum during slow seasons.
• [00:25:30] The decision to structure High Point Roofing as a self-managing company to attract private equity buyers.
• [00:29:50] Transitioning into High Point Home Services and acquiring Chris Services.
• [00:35:15] Identifying gaps in trades business operations and the vision behind "Forge," a training platform for tradespeople.
• [00:41:30] The challenges and opportunities of launching a scalable educational platform for business owners.
• [00:44:45] Final reflections on entrepreneurship, hard work, and the importance of persistence.

3 Things To Remember

1. Having a clear exit plan from the start can guide business growth strategically.
2. Ethical and responsible sales practices build long-term trust and success.
3. Hiring for values and work ethic, rather than just skills, fosters a strong company culture.

Useful Links

Connect with Michael Pallozzi: LinkedIn

Connect with Ron Cuff: LinkedIn

Like what you’ve heard…

Learn more about HFM HERE

Schedule time to speak with us HERE

Check out our Financial Wellness Program – HFM Ignite

Welcome to this insightful episode of The Entrepreneur’s Journey, where Michael Pallozzi speaks with his longtime friend, business transformation specialist, Jen Goldman. They explore Jen’s passion for empowering small businesses to thrive, not just grow, and discuss her unique journey from humble beginnings to becoming a change agent for entrepreneurs. Jen reveals the critical importance of financial literacy, understanding profit and loss, and the discipline needed for businesses to make clear, strategic decisions. Through shared experiences and practical tips, Jen and Michael underscore how small business owners can build sustainable practices to drive growth, overcome burnout, and maintain a work-life balance that supports business and personal success.

Tune into this episode to also learn:

• Why financial clarity is essential for business success.
• How to leverage a profit and loss statement to make strategic decisions.
• Key strategies for managing family dynamics in a business environment.
• The importance of outsourcing and effective vendor management.

What we discussed

• [00:01:00] How Michael discovered Jen on a podcast and brought her into HFM to drive transformative change.
• [00:03:50] Understanding client fit and knowing when to say “no” to ensure best service and maintain team morale.
• [00:05:00] Jen’s story of restructuring her business, even stepping back, to realign with her values.
• [00:07:00] Key financial foundations: Profit and loss basics for small business owners and visualization techniques to ease financial anxiety.
• [00:09:24] The challenges of mixing personal and business finances and its impact on growth and decision-making.
• [00:15:47] Vendor management versus employee roles, and when to outsource effectively to enhance business operations.
• [00:22:05] Strategies for managing burnout and staying balanced, including taking buffer days and leading by example to attract the right team and clients.

3 Things To Remember

1. Financial literacy is critical for making confident, strategic business decisions.
2. Cultivating a team and vendor relationships that align with your vision will elevate your business and reduce friction
3. Taking time for personal well-being and setting boundaries is essential to avoid burnout and maintain a thriving business.

Useful Links

Connect with Michael Pallozzi: LinkedIn

Connect with Jen Goldman: LinkedIn

Like what you’ve heard…

Learn more about HFM HERE

Schedule time to speak with us HERE

Check out our Financial Wellness Program – HFM Ignite