• Adam Kroener, Founder of Carbliss, the #1 Fastest Growing Low-Carb Brand of Premium Ready to Drink Hand Crafted Cocktails
    Nov 4 2024

    Join us on the Braving Business Podcast as we sit down with Adam Kroener, the co-founder of Carbliss, a trailblazer in the low-carb beverage industry. Adam's journey is filled with resilience, starting with his early days as a teenage father and Army veteran, to building Carbliss alongside his wife, Amanda. Named in honor of a close friend, Carbliss has achieved tremendous growth, earning the title of #1 Fastest Growing Company by Inc Regionals Midwest. Adam's story is one of vision, grit, and staying true to one’s values, all while navigating the competitive beverage market.

    Key Discussion Points:

    1. Adam's early life, from teenage fatherhood to his time in the Army, and the lessons that shaped his entrepreneurial spirit.

    2. The inspiration behind Carbliss and Adam's motivation to address a personal need in a crowded market.

    3. Insights on identifying market gaps and the importance of solving problems that resonate personally.

    4. Overcoming doubts and setbacks in the initial days of Carbliss, and Adam’s approach to handling uncertainty.

    5. Resilience and perseverance in business, with Adam's advice on enduring the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.

    6. The role of values in scaling a business, and how Adam has stayed grounded as Carbliss has grown.

    7. Balancing the demands of business, health, and personal life as an entrepreneur.

    8. Tips for turning a personal passion into a thriving business and bringing ideas to market.

    9. Adam’s journey of building Carbliss with his wife, Amanda, and the dynamics of a husband-and-wife team.

    10. Adam’s dedication to supporting veterans and troubled youth, and how his personal mission aligns with his business goals.

    Quotable Moments:

    "Resilience is about not sprinting but finding a sustainable pace for the long haul."

    "The best ideas are the ones that come from personal passion and real-life problems."

    Connect with Adam:

    - Instagram: [@therealadamkroener](https://www.instagram.com/therealadamkroener/)

    - LinkedIn: [Adam Kroener](https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-kroener-not-a-seltzer-beverage-ready-to-drink-cocktail/)

    - Carbliss Instagram: [@drinkcarbliss](https://www.instagram.com/drinkcarbliss/)

    - Carbliss Facebook: [Drink Carbliss](https://www.facebook.com/drinkcarbliss)

    Listener Engagement:

    What parts of Adam's journey resonate with you? Share your own experiences of resilience and growth, and let us know how his story inspires your entrepreneurial path.

    Disclaimer:

    The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Braving Business Podcast or its hosts.

    Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review us wherever you get your podcasts. Stay brave!

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    51 m
  • Joe Huss, Founder of Supply Chain BEST and personal development thought leader
    Oct 28 2024

    Join us on the Braving Business Podcast as we welcome Joe Huss, a seasoned entrepreneur and founder of Supply Chain BEST, with a career spanning over 25 years in global business development, product manufacturing, and supply chain management. Joe’s journey from his entrepreneurial family roots to launching his own ventures in North America and Asia is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to personal growth. His story speaks to the power of perseverance and the importance of surrounding oneself with the right people.

    Key Points:

    1. Impact of Early Experiences

    Growing up in an entrepreneurial family, Joe witnessed both the triumphs and struggles of running a business.

    2. Facing Major Challenges from a Young Age

    At just 18 months old, Joe underwent heart surgery, a life event that drained his family’s resources and led to significant sacrifices. Joe reflects on how this shaped his sense of responsibility.

    3. Early Influences and Passion for Self-Improvement

    Joe’s introduction to personal development began as a teenager, setting the foundation for a lifetime of growth. His love for books like How to Win Friends and Influence People continues to guide his mindset.

    4. Starting Over in a Foreign Country

    Joe took the leap to Asia as a young entrepreneur with no safety net. He discusses the challenges and cultural insights gained from building a business far from home.

    5. Lessons Learned from Adversity and Loss

    Joe shares profound lessons learned from significant life events, including twice finding himself "homeless" and the resilience he developed to persevere through setbacks.

    6. The Importance of Partnership

    Through his journey, Joe highlights the qualities he seeks in partners, emphasizing the value of mutual trust and complementary strengths as key to long-term success.

    7. Growth through Self-Reflection

    In his career, Joe identified that personal growth is just as important as professional skills. He shares his journey of self-discovery and the importance of honesty in facing personal weaknesses.

    8. Fostering a Collaborative Business Culture

    Joe discusses how building a strong company culture around trust and shared goals has become a cornerstone of his leadership approach, particularly in his work at Supply Chain BEST.

    9. Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

    With decades of experience, Joe advises emerging entrepreneurs on overcoming self-doubt and finding resilience, especially when starting out.

    10. Joe’s Vision for Supply Chain BEST and Future Goals

    Looking ahead, Joe shares his plans for expanding partnerships and deepening collaborative relationships to drive business growth.

    Quotable Moments:

    - "I’ve learned that a company’s culture is a shadow of its leadership. The people you surround yourself with are a reflection of your heart."

    - "The path to excellence begins with brutal honesty with oneself and the courage to tackle personal challenges head-on."

    Connect with Joe Huss:

    - LinkedIn: [Joe Huss](https://www.linkedin.com)

    Listener Engagement:

    We’d love to hear your thoughts on Joe’s journey!

    Disclaimer:

    The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent those of the Braving Business Podcast or its hosts.

    Be sure to subscribe, rate, and review the Braving Business Podcast wherever you listen. Stay brave!

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    52 m
  • Monte Holm, co-founder of World Financial Group and author of "Expect to Win"
    Oct 21 2024

    Episode Summary:

    Join us as we welcome Monte Holm, co-founder of World Financial Group (WFG), accomplished entrepreneur, and author of Expect to Win. From a challenging start to becoming a global leader in the financial services industry, Monte’s story is one of resilience, strategic planning, and unwavering focus. He shares insights on overcoming adversity, creating a vision for success, and the importance of preparation and execution. Monte’s journey is an inspiring testament to the power of perseverance, strong mindset, and clarity of purpose.

    Key Discussion Points:

    1. Monte’s early life challenges and the lessons they imparted on resilience and perseverance.

    2. The journey from having “no leadership, no money, no vision” to co-founding an international financial services agency.

    3. The concept of “Expect to Win” and how it shapes Monte’s approach to business and life.

    4. The importance of near-perfect execution and how entrepreneurs can improve their strategic planning.

    5. Managing distractions and staying laser-focused — 98% of winning, according to Monte.

    6. Common mistakes people make when striving for financial success and practical tips to avoid them.

    7. How to cultivate a winning mindset through preparation, strategic planning, and mental toughness.

    8. The role of vision in achieving entrepreneurial success and how to define one’s path forward.

    9. Monte’s philosophy on turning struggles into strengths and swiftly moving through setbacks.

    10. Upcoming projects and Monte’s continued mission to help people “win the money game.”

    11. Why deep-seated expectations drive success and how to cultivate an “Expect to Win” mentality.

    12. Insights into Monte's personal journey of mentorship and leadership retreats, and how they shape his approach to business.

    Quotable Moments:

    “Strength comes from struggle. Wisdom and a strong mentality are born from adversity.”

    “Deep down, most people expect to fail but hope to surprise themselves and win. Those who win, do so because they prepare and learn to ‘Expect to Win’.”

    Connect with Monte Holm:

    - Website: [Monte Holm Website](#)

    - Book: Expect to Win available on [Amazon](#)

    Listener Engagement:

    We’d love to hear your thoughts on Monte’s insights. How do you prepare yourself for success and overcome setbacks? Share your experiences with us on social media.

    Disclaimer:

    The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Braving Business Podcast or its hosts.

    Remember to subscribe, rate, and review us wherever you get your podcasts. Stay brave!

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    1 h y 5 m
  • Krystal and Dedric Polite, Stars of 50/50 Flip on A&E and Hulu
    Sep 30 2024

    Episode Summary:

    Join us in this inspiring episode of the Braving Business Podcast as we welcome Krystal and Dedric Polite, stars of the hit TV show 50/50 Flip on Hulu and A&E. Krystal and Dedric share their journey as first-generation real estate investors, where they have grown from owning three rental units to over 70 properties valued in the millions. They’ve built a real estate empire that demonstrates the potential for anyone, regardless of background, to create generational wealth through real estate investing.

    Throughout the episode, they candidly discuss the challenges they faced along the way, including Dedric being fired from his job at HubSpot, Krystal facing eviction from her apartment for renting it on Airbnb, losing $10,000 to an unscrupulous consultant, and the intense workload of their show’s first season, where a team of three had to do the work of 13. Their resilience and determination to persevere shine through their remarkable story, providing valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and investors alike.

    The Polites share their insights on scaling businesses, pivoting through adversity, and the importance of persistence in the face of failure. They also open up about their personal experiences and upcoming projects, including a $5 million Sky Zone project made possible through their real estate ventures. Parents to two young sons, Krystal and Dedric are passionate about giving back to their community, providing affordable housing, and empowering others through their real estate education platform.

    Key Discussion Points:

    1. Krystal’s early entrepreneurial spirit and Dedric’s traditional path before transitioning to real estate.

    2. The challenges they faced in building their real estate business, including eviction, job loss, and nearly giving up.

    3. Their first major real estate deal that earned them $105K and how it jump-started their success.

    4. The journey from a side hustle to being offered a national TV show on Hulu and A&E.

    5. The intense workload of 50/50 Flip's first season and how they persevered through it.

    6. Lessons learned from failure and the mindset of persistence they’ve cultivated.

    7. The importance of community-focused real estate investing and providing affordable housing.

    8. The role of integrity and doing good while doing well in their business.

    9. Their upcoming Sky Zone project and future business ventures.

    10. Fun insight into their relationship, including how their first date was a business meeting.

    Quotable Moments:

    - "There’s nothing that can stop a man or woman who will not quit."

    - "Do good while doing well."

    Connect with Krystal & Dedric:

    - Instagram: [Be Polite Properties](https://www.instagram.com/bepoliteproperties)

    - Facebook: [Be Polite Properties](https://www.facebook.com/bepoliteproperties)

    - YouTube: [Be Polite Properties](https://www.youtube.com/bepolite)

    Listener Engagement:

    We’d love to hear your thoughts on Krystal and Dedric’s story and how their journey toward financial empowerment resonates with your own experiences. Be sure to share your favorite insights with us!

    Disclaimer:

    The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Braving Business Podcast or its hosts.

    Remember to subscribe, rate, and review us wherever you get your podcasts. Stay brave!

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    46 m
  • Ayeshah Abuelhiga, Founder and CEO of Leading Comfort Food Brand Mason Dixie Foods
    Sep 23 2024

    Join us in welcoming the remarkable and extremely thoughtful Ayeshah Abuelhiga, founder and CEO of Mason Dixie Foods, to the Braving Business Podcast. Ayeshah shares her journey from a successful tech career to launching Mason Dixie Foods, a fast-growing comfort food brand. She discusses her entrepreneurial journey, overcoming challenges, and the pivotal moments that reshaped her business, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Key Discussion Points:

    1. Growing up in a family of immigrants who operated a small business.

    2. The courage it took to leave a successful tech career and venture into the food industry.

    3. The story behind the successful Kickstarter campaign and the launch of the first Mason Dixie pop-up shop.

    4. How a Whole Foods buyer's interest led to the opportunity to make frozen biscuits available across the country.

    5. Navigating the challenges of closing restaurants and relocating the company to Baltimore during the COVID-19 pandemic.

    6. Learning about needing to pivot from this experience and the scariest part.

    7. Insights on people and team building from her entrepreneurial experience.

    8. Exciting new product launches and future plans for Mason Dixie Foods.

    9. Community involvement and mentorship through the Franciscan Center and Dignity Plates.

    10. Advice about risk-taking and distinguishing between reckless and calculated risks.

    Quotable Moments:

    "You gotta risk it for the biscuit."

    "What have you ever failed at that you tried your hardest?"

    Connect with Ayeshah:

    - Website: https://masondixiefoods.com

    Listener Engagement:

    We're eager to hear your reflections on Ayeshah's journey and the ways it resonates with your own experiences of facing and overcoming adversity.

    Disclaimer:

    The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Braving Business Podcast or its hosts.

    Remember to subscribe, rate, and review us wherever you get your podcasts. Stay brave!

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    55 m
  • Nadine Chammas, Singer, Actor, Founder of 'The Life Director' and author of 'The Stage is Yours'
    Sep 16 2024

    Tal and PJ welcome Nadine Chammas, singer, actor, speaker, author and the founder of 'The Life Director,' to the Braving Business Podcast.

    Episode Summary:

    Nadine shares her inspiring journey from growing up in Lebanon to becoming a pioneering social impact strategist and life mentor in Dubai. Her work spans theater, music, and personal development, with over 250 theater plays produced and the launch of the first Edutainment center in Dubai. Nadine’s story of resilience includes overcoming the disappointment of closing her business, battling breast cancer, and ultimately transforming her experiences into a powerful method of personal growth, which she details in her book, The Stage is Yours.

    Key Discussion Points:

    1. The motivations behind Nadine’s move from Lebanon to Dubai and how it influenced her entrepreneurial journey.
    2. How her early experiences in the arts shaped her approach to business and personal development.
    3. The challenges of producing over 250 theater plays and establishing the first Edutainment center in Dubai.
    4. The emotional toll of closing her Edutainment center and being diagnosed with breast cancer in the same year.
    5. Nadine’s transition into life coaching and therapy and the creation of a program that has inspired many women.
    6. The themes of her book, The Stage is Yours, and what she hopes readers will take away from it.
    7. The development of her unique method, The Life Director, combining drama therapy, hypnotherapy, and other tools.
    8. Guiding clients through self-discovery and purpose-finding.
    9. Upcoming projects, including a course in Life Directing and a certification retreat.
    10. Nadine’s advice on overcoming setbacks and adversity by believing in your message to the world.

    Quotable Moments:

    "On the stage of life, be the director of your own story." "You are important and came with a message to this world; obstacles are just feedback to guide your direction."

    Connect with Nadine:

    • Website: Nadine Chammas
    • Instagram: @nadinethelifedirector
    • LinkedIn: Nadine Chammas
    • YouTube: Nadine Chammas

    Listener Engagement:

    We’re eager to hear your reflections on Nadine’s journey and how her story resonates with your own experiences of facing and overcoming adversity. Contact us at https://www.bravingbusiness.com

    Disclaimer:

    The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Braving Business Podcast or its hosts.

    Remember to subscribe, rate, and review us wherever you get your podcasts. Stay brave!

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    47 m
  • Reid Tileston, author of Grit it Done, Keynote Speaker, and Expert in Entrepreneurial Business Ownership.
    Sep 9 2024

    Tal and PJ welcome Reid Tileston, an author, adjunct professor, keynote speaker, and expert in Entrepreneurial Business Ownership. Reid’s journey includes acquiring, growing, and successfully exiting four different companies, achieving remarkable success. His new book, "Grit it Done," has quickly become a top seller on Amazon. Reid’s story is not just about triumphs; it’s also about overcoming significant challenges like failure and loneliness. Today, we’ll dive deep into his experiences, insights, and the philosophy that drives his success.

    Episode Summary:

    Reid Tileston shares his remarkable journey from acquiring and growing companies to becoming a successful entrepreneur and author. He discusses the concept of Entrepreneurial Business Ownership (EBO), his belief that failure is a primer for future success, and his personal struggles with loneliness. Reid also talks about his new book, "Grit it Done," and provides valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

    Key Discussion Points:

    1. Reid’s personal story and how his journey began.

    2. The concept of Entrepreneurial Business Ownership (EBO) and what sets it apart.

    3. How EBOs practice entrepreneurship differently to achieve their dreams.

    4. The belief that failure is the primer for future success and why Reid holds this view.

    5. A significant failure Reid faced and how it shaped his entrepreneurial journey.

    6. The challenge of loneliness and how it has impacted Reid’s story.

    7. Strategies Reid used to overcome loneliness and maintain resilience.

    8. Insights from Reid’s book "Grit it Done" and the reasoning behind its title.

    9. A story from "Grit it Done" that encapsulates Reid’s philosophy.

    10. The mantra "If you're not all in, you're in the way" and how it applies to Reid’s experiences.

    11. Advice for entrepreneurs facing challenges and uncertainty.

    12. Upcoming projects and Reid’s PHD research on small business owner satisfaction and effectiveness.

    13. A fun fact about Reid being a superhero and its significance in his journey.

    Special Mentions:

    - Reid’s book "Grit it Done" and its impact.

    - Entrepreneurial Business Ownership (EBO) concept.

    - Overcoming loneliness and maintaining resilience.

    Quotable Moments:

    - "Failure is the primer for future success."

    - "If you're not all in, you're in the way."

    Connect with Reid:

    - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reidtileston/

    - Twitter: @ReidTileston

    Listener Engagement:

    We invite listeners to share their thoughts and stories of overcoming challenges in their entrepreneurial journeys.

    Disclaimer:

    The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Braving Business Podcast or its hosts.

    Remember to subscribe, rate, and review us wherever you get your podcasts. Stay brave!

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    53 m
  • Alessandro Tronco, Best-Selling Author of "The Buddah Who Drove a Bentley"
    Sep 2 2024

    In this episode, we welcome Alessandro Tronco, a remarkable entrepreneur whose journey embodies the American Dream. Born in Sicily, Alessandro immigrated to the United States at six years old with his family's hopes and dreams. At fifteen, he returned to America alone with only five dollars in his pocket. Alessandro's tenacity led him to Siena College, and from there, he rose to become one of the youngest Managing Partners at Northwestern Mutual. Today, Alessandro is known for his entrepreneurial spirit, philanthropic efforts, and his book, "The Buddha Who Drove a Bentley," which offers profound insights on personal growth and success.

    Episode Summary:

    Alessandro Tronco shares his inspiring journey from a young immigrant with nothing to his name to a successful entrepreneur and Managing Partner at Northwestern Mutual. He discusses the challenges he faced, including overcoming financial hardship and navigating the corporate world. Alessandro also delves into the key principles from his book, such as forgiveness, truth, mindfulness, and connection, offering valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

    Key Questions:

    1. Alessandro's early life in Sicily and the pivotal moments that shaped his determination.

    2. Challenges he faced as a young immigrant in America and how he overcame them.

    3. Insights from his rise through the ranks at Northwestern Mutual.

    4. The motivation behind his book, "The Buddha Who Drove a Bentley," and its core principles.

    5. The importance of forgiving oneself before forgiving others and its impact on personal growth.

    6. Why telling oneself the truth, no matter the cost, is crucial for success.

    7. How slowing down can lead to recognizing life's magical moments.

    8. The significance of staying connected and believing in a bigger life story.

    9. Personal anecdotes of failure and how they primed him for future success.

    10. Overcoming loneliness and the lessons it taught him about resilience and perseverance.

    11. Balancing professional success with philanthropic efforts and community involvement.

    12. Key advice for young entrepreneurs about staying true to their values while pursuing ambitious goals.

    13. Alessandro's vision for the future and upcoming projects he is excited about.

    Special Mentions:

    - Alessandro's journey from Sicily to America.

    - Achievements at Northwestern Mutual.

    - Core principles from "The Buddha Who Drove a Bentley."

    Quotable Moments:

    - "If you're not all in, you're in the way."

    - "Forgive yourself before you can forgive others."

    Connect with Alessandro:

    Listeners can connect with Alessandro through his website https://thebuddhawhodroveabentley.com

    Outro:

    Thanks to Alessandro Tronco for sharing his inspiring journey and valuable insights. His story of resilience, ambition, and leadership continues to inspire many.

    Listener Engagement:

    We invite listeners to share their thoughts and stories of overcoming challenges in their own entrepreneurial journeys.

    Disclaimer:

    The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Braving Business Podcast or its hosts.

    Remember to subscribe, rate, and review us wherever you get your podcasts. Stay brave!

    Más Menos
    47 m