The 9–5 workday is disappearing. Faster than most people think.
In this episode of Founder Talk, I sit down with Brian Horwath and Arben Koliqi, founders of Blackrock Innovations, to talk about the future of work — and why traditional jobs are on the decline as AI and the gig economy take over.
We dig into how technology, COVID, and remote work have completely rewritten what “a job” even means. From freelancers replacing full-time roles to AI reshaping how we measure productivity, this conversation explores how the global workforce is shifting from hours worked to value delivered.
Brian and Arben also share why they believe 2034 will mark the official death of the 9–5, what skills will actually matter in the new economy, and how founders can prepare their businesses for a world where agility, creativity, and results matter more than time spent behind a desk.
You’ll learn:
✅ Why the 9–5 model is already breaking down
✅ How AI and automation will reshape jobs faster than anyone expects
✅ The difference between outsourcing, offshoring, and freelancing and why it matters
✅ How to stay relevant in a world that pays for outcomes, not effort
✅ Why the future belongs to creators, problem solvers, and specialists
If you’ve been wondering “is the 9–5 really over?” or “how do I stay relevant in the AI era?” — this episode is your roadmap to what’s coming next.
Connect with Brian Horwath and Arben Koliqi
Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-horwath-a5a3b11/
Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arbenkoliqi/
Guest Website: https://www.blackrockinnovations.com/
If you are a B2B company that wants to build your own in-house content team instead of outsourcing your content to a marketing agency, we may be a fit for you! Everything you see in our podcast and content is a result of a scrappy, nimble, internal content team along with an AI-powered content systems and process. Check out pricing and services here: https://impaxs.com
Want a behind-the-scenes look at how we run the show and the chance to ask upcoming guests your questions?
Join the Founder Talk Club in WhatsApp.(it’s free): https://chat.whatsapp.com/KDEgJWAH5liFCiWVIU8bIa
Timecodes
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
00:09 Overview of BlackRock Innovations
01:12 The Gig Economy: Current Trends and Future Projections
03:48 Impact of COVID-19 on Remote Work
08:31 The Future of the 9-to-5 Job
20:35 Outsourcing vs. Offshoring: Key Differences
26:43 Challenges in Video Editing and Outsourcing
31:02 Curating Clips for Different Platforms
31:38 Starting with Internal Networks for Talent
32:04 Challenges of Freelancing and Building Confidence
32:47 Lever's Approach to Tracking Proficiencies
33:20 Flaws in the Resume Process
34:41 Understanding and Capturing Proficiencies
36:24 Lever's Role in the Gig Economy
39:03 Blockchain and Financial Disruption
39:36 Lever's Global Resource Management
41:01 Challenges in Project and Resource Management
42:55 Development and Future of Lever
47:30 Founders' Journey and Software Development
56:52 Conclusion and Contact Information
In this episode of Founder Talk, Jason Krantz, founder of Strategy Titan and Labor Titan, pulls back the curtain on what’s actually happening in the world of technology, education, and work. Jason’s built companies that live at the intersection of data science, human behavior, and business strategy — and he’s not afraid to call out the hype.
You’ll learn:
✅ Why most AI pilots fail before they start
✅ How to spot the difference between hype and innovation ✅ Why the education system is built to serve itself, not its students
✅ What skills, mindsets, and strategies will still win in an AI-driven world
✅ How to future-proof your business and career by thinking differently
If you’ve been wondering “is AI a bubble?” “is college still worth it?” or “how will automation change my job?” — this episode will open your eyes. It’s not fear-mongering. It’s the truth about where we’re headed — and how to lead when everything changes.
Connect with Jason Krantz
Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonkrantz/
Guest Website: https://www.strategytitan.com/
If you are a B2B company that wants to build your own in-house content team instead of outsourcing your content to a marketing agency, we may be a fit for you! Everything you see in our podcast and content is a result of a scrappy, nimble, internal content team along with an AI-powered content systems and process.
Check out pricing and services here: https://impaxs.com
Timecodes
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:24 Discussing AI Pilot Failures
01:08 Importance of Data Quality in AI
02:07 Challenges in AI Implementation
06:16 Advice for AI Startups
06:53 AI and the Startup Journey
08:29 The AI Bubble and Market Trends
12:57 Crypto and Digital Currencies
29:39 The Future of Coding with AI
31:21 The Importance of Learning to Code
32:03 Career Prospects in a Rapidly Changing Market
32:53 Critical Thinking and Creativity in the Age of AI
33:45 The Value and ROI of College Education
36:28 The Misconceptions About Trade Jobs
44:00 Winning the Battle for Talent in the Workforce
48:48 The Future of Work with AI and Automation
54:30 The Role of Purpose and Community in Work
58:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In this episode of Founder Talk, I sit down with Brian Smith, founder of IA Business Advisors, to talk about the myth of hypergrowth — and why the best founders know when to slow down. Brian’s company just landed on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies, and he shares exactly what it took to get there after nearly 30 years in business.
We dig into what founders get wrong about scaling, the hidden dangers of growing too fast, and how “intentional growth” beats “blind speed” every single time. Brian also shares his journey through burnout, ego, and the lessons that reshaped how he leads — in business and at home.
This one’s not just about revenue. It’s about building a life and company that actually last.
You’ll learn:
✅ The difference between growth and scaling (and why it matters)
✅ How companies go bankrupt trying to grow too fast
✅ Why slowing down is often the fastest way to scale
✅ How transparency with your team and family creates long-term success
✅ Why ego kills leadership — and how to lead with intentionality
If you’ve been searching “how to scale your business,” “how to avoid burnout as a founder,” or “how to build a company that lasts,” this episode will shift the way you think about growth.
Connect with Brian Smith
Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/influenceauthor/
Guest Website: https://iabusinessadvisors.com/
If you are a B2B company that wants to build your own in-house content team instead of outsourcing your content to a marketing agency, we may be a fit for you! Everything you see in our podcast and content is a result of a scrappy, nimble, internal content team along with an AI-powered content systems and process. Check out pricing and services here: https://impaxs.com
Want a behind-the-scenes look at how we run the show and the chance to ask upcoming guests your questions?
Join the Founder Talk Club in WhatsApp.(it’s free): https://chat.whatsapp.com/KDEgJWAH5liFCiWVIU8bIa
Timecodes
00:00 Introduction
00:24 Secrets to Making the Inc. 5000 List
02:21 Growth vs. Scaling Explained
03:59 Challenges of Rapid Scaling
08:01 Building a Strong Foundation
10:33 Leveraging Contractors for Growth
22:19 Client Relationships and Retention
28:17 The Monthly Retainer Model Debate
28:25 The Importance of Data in Business
29:21 Reflections on Early Entrepreneurship
29:54 Understanding and Managing Ego
31:12 The Value of Intentionality
32:12 A Pivotal Year: 2004
34:27 Balancing Family and Business
40:58 Navigating Economic Challenges
47:57 The Role of AI in Consulting
53:15 Advice for Founders
55:28 Rapid Fire Questions
56:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
America seems to be more divided than ever before. But why is that? Is it because of leadership? or algorithms? or social media?
In this episode of Founder Talk, I sit down with Mike Nellis, founder of Authentic and creator of the viral Substack Endless Urgency, to dig into how technology, money, and incentives are shaping modern politics — and what’s really broken about the system. Mike shares his journey from working on the Obama campaign to raising over a billion dollars online through digital organizing and political fundraising.
We don’t just talk about politics. We challenge it. Mike believes algorithms and billionaires are driving division, but I push back on whether that’s the full story. We get into how personal responsibility, leadership, and culture play a bigger role than most people want to admit.
We also dive into why campaigns treat voters like ATMs, how Obama and Trump both understood timing and authenticity better than anyone, and what founders can learn from the most successful (and chaotic) campaigns in history.
You’ll learn:
✅ Why political fundraising feels broken — and what it reveals about business incentives
✅ The role algorithms play in shaping culture, and where accountability really belongs
✅ Why building trust beats chasing outrage in both politics and business
✅ How to lead through division, pressure, and public scrutiny
✅ What founders can learn from political campaigns about storytelling, timing, and conviction
If you’ve been searching “how social media shapes politics,” “why America feels divided,” or “the business of political fundraising,” this episode gives you the unfiltered truth — no spin, no talking points.
Connect with Mike
Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikenellis/
Guest Website: https://endlessurgency.com/
Want a behind-the-scenes look at how we run the show and the chance to ask upcoming guests your questions?
Join the Founder Talk Club in WhatsApp.(it’s free): https://chat.whatsapp.com/KDEgJWAH5liFCiWVIU8bIa
If you are a B2B company that wants to build your own in-house content operation instead of outsourcing your content to a marketing agency, we may be a fit for you! Everything you see in our podcast and content is a result of a scrappy, nimble, internal content team along with an AI-powered content systems and process. Check out pricing and services here: https://impaxs.com
Timecodes
00:00 Introduction to Mike Nellis
01:09 Mike's Early Political Journey
02:27 Building Authentic and Entrepreneurial Insights
03:40 Challenges and Successes in Entrepreneurship
06:20 Political Fundraising and Campaign Strategies
09:05 The Role of Social Media in Politics
20:08 The Impact of Algorithms and Media on Society
28:34 Grievances and Lack of Leadership
28:51 The Role of Social Media
29:50 Incentive Structures and Citizenship
32:17 Media and Characterization
35:50 Political Landscape and Predictions
49:12 Challenges Facing Young Men
53:53 Entrepreneurial Journey and Misconceptions
54:19 Discussion on US Debt and Economic Policies
55:21 Good Debt vs. Bad Debt
56:58 Entrepreneurial Challenges and Statistics
58:20 Political Impressions and Humor
01:03:38 Chicago's Crime and Safety Issues
01:11:34 Political Landscape and Future Prospects
01:14:25 Building a Media Company and Final Thoughts
Most companies think brand is just a logo, tagline, or color palette.
The truth? That’s design.
Brand is who you are, how you show up, and why people choose you over everyone else. And if you don’t define it, you’ll blend into the noise, competing only on price.
In this episode of Founder Talk, I sit down with Jason Vana, brand strategist and founder of SHFT, to unpack what brand really means and why “playing it safe” is the fastest way to kill growth. Jason explains why caring more isn’t a differentiator, why “being the best” is an empty claim, and how to uncover the uniqueness in your business that truly makes you stand out.
We dive into the harsh realities of LinkedIn’s algorithm shift, why AI will never replace real brand strategy, and why too many entrepreneurs mistake vulnerability for authenticity. Jason also shares why building a brand is actually building a business strategy, one rooted in knowing who you are, what makes you different, and what kind of company you want to run.
You’ll learn:
✅ Why “professional” industry jargon kills authenticity and trust
✅ How to find the differentiator you don’t even realize you have
✅ Why brand flows through every part of your business — not just marketing
✅ The danger of chasing followers or playing it safe
✅ How to brand a “boring” business in a way that excites customers
If you’ve been searching “how to build a brand,” “brand strategy for founders,” or “how to stand out in a crowded market,” this episode delivers the no-fluff truth.
Connect with Jason
Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonvana/
Guest Website: https://shft.agency/
Want a behind-the-scenes look at how we run the show and the chance to ask upcoming guests your questions? Join the Founder Talk Club in WhatsApp.(it’s free)
https://chat.whatsapp.com/KDEgJWAH5liFCiWVIU8bIa
If you are a B2B company that wants to build your own in-house content team instead of outsourcing your content to a marketing agency, we may be a fit for you! Everything you see in our podcast and content is a result of a scrappy, nimble, internal content team along with an AI-powered content systems and process.
Check out pricing and services here: https://impaxs.com
Timecodes00:00 Introduction and Podcast Beginnings00:40 Meet Jason Vanna: Brand Strategist01:12 The Importance of Branding03:16 AI in Branding and Marketing04:56 The Value of Authentic Content Creation07:34 Taking Breaks and Reflecting on Content Strategy13:02 Challenges with LinkedIn's Algorithm15:59 Adapting Marketing Strategies33:58 Embracing Your Brand Identity36:03 Breaking Industry Norms36:33 Finding Your Authentic Voice38:06 Consistency in Communication38:53 The Importance of Authenticity39:48 Building a Personal Brand43:02 The Pitfalls of Chasing Followers44:32 Gary V's Content Strategy50:11 Defining Your Business Goals56:09 Creating an Exciting Brand01:01:11 Positioning Your Brand Differently01:08:08 Reflecting on Personal and Business Growth01:13:57 Conclusion and Contact Information
Most founders think they have a “people problem” or a “process problem.” The truth? It’s almost always both. Without clear systems, people get frustrated. Without empowered people, processes get ignored. And now with AI and automation accelerating, the stakes are higher than ever.
In this episode of Founder Talk, Ryan Weiss, founder of EPS Optics, shares how he helps companies streamline workstreams, align teams, and prepare for a future where AI is rapidly reshaping jobs. From diagnosing broken processes to balancing structure with creativity, Ryan explains why the companies that win are the ones who combine people and process to create real impact.
We dive into how poor order entry created billing chaos at one client, why “healthy conflict” is essential for accountability, and what happens when you let blind spots hold your business back. Ryan also shares his journey from building a lawn care company at 15, to living in the Philippines and building outsourcing teams, to writing Optics, his Amazon bestselling book on process and perception.
You’ll learn:
✅ Why most business frustrations come from missing processes or ignored systems
✅ How to balance creativity with structure in your team
✅ Why AI will replace many jobs and how to adapt before it happens
✅ The SIPOC framework (Suppliers, Inputs, Process, Outputs, Customers) that transforms workflows
✅ Why the future belongs to leaders who impact people, not just profits
If you’ve been searching “how to fix broken processes,” “people vs. process in business,” or “how AI will impact jobs,” this episode gives you the no-fluff truth.
Connect with Ryan
Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryancweiss/
Guest Website: https://learnmore.epsoptics.com/
If you are a B2B company that wants to build your own in-house content team instead of outsourcing your content to a marketing agency, we may be a fit for you! Everything you see in our podcast and content is a result of a scrappy, nimble, internal content team along with an AI-powered content systems and process. Check out pricing and services here: https://impaxs.com
Timecodes
00:00 Introduction and Name Pronunciation
00:12 German Heritage and Pronunciation Variations
00:54 The Importance of Process in Business
03:49 Balancing Process and Creativity
06:59 Diagnosing and Solving Process Issues
19:03 The Role of External Experts
31:32 Living and Working in the Philippines
34:16 The Future of Customer Service and AI
34:38 AI Replacing Jobs: The Future of Work
35:22 Streamlining Business Operations
36:01 Preparing for Automation and AI
37:40 Impact of AI on Computer Science Careers
38:39 Adapting to Technological Changes
43:36 The Importance of Mindset in Career Evolution
49:14 Writing a Book: Process and Benefits
56:09 Building a Business and Making an Impact
59:55 Connecting and Growing Through Relationships
Most founders quit creating content too early. They get frustrated when posts flop, blame the algorithm, and let ego get in the way. The truth? Building a personal brand takes patience, self-awareness, and the willingness to look bad before you get good.
Today, I sit down with Jared Gibson, co-founder of Outworks, to unpack the reality of building on LinkedIn in 2024. From why video content still matters even if reach is down, to how to send DMs that don’t make prospects roll their eyes, Jared shares the no-fluff playbook for building trust and winning clients online.
We dive into why executives are still scared to get on camera, how thought leader ads really work, and why the comparison game destroys more founders than it helps. Jared also shares what it’s like scaling Outworks, hitting plateaus, and pushing through the mental challenges every entrepreneur faces.
You’ll learn:
✅ Why ego is the enemy of building your personal brand
✅ How to create content that enters the conversation in your buyer’s head
✅ Why video is still the fastest way to build trust (even if reach is down)
✅ The right way to use DMs without sounding like a spam bot
✅ How to survive the inevitable plateaus of entrepreneurship
If you’ve been searching “how to build a personal brand on LinkedIn,” “why my LinkedIn content isn’t working,” or “authentic LinkedIn strategy for founders,” this episode delivers the raw truth.
Connect with Jared
Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaredoutworks
Guest Website: https://www.outworks.io/
If you are a B2B company that wants to build your own in-house content team instead of outsourcing your content to a marketing agency, we may be a fit for you! Everything you see in our podcast and content is a result of a scrappy, nimble, internal content team along with an AI-powered content systems and process. Check out pricing and services here: https://impaxs.com
Timecodes
00:00 Introduction to Jaron Gibson and His Journey
00:18 Transition to Entrepreneurship
00:34 Building a Personal Brand on LinkedIn
01:08 Founding Outworks and Its Mission
01:44 Challenges and Strategies in Sales
04:19 The Importance of Personal Branding
05:08 LinkedIn's Changing Landscape
06:40 Effective Content Strategies for LinkedIn
10:03 The Role of Video in Personal Branding
27:50 LinkedIn Outreach and DM Strategies
37:12 LinkedIn Thought Leader Ads
40:01 The Power of Paid and Organic Marketing
40:57 Leveraging Thought Leader Ads
41:12 Creating Specific Content for Target Audiences
41:38 The Benefits of Profile Views and Connection Requests
41:58 Building a Network with Thought Leader Ads
42:12 The Value of Organic Content
43:09 Being the Content: Authenticity in Marketing
43:39 Repurposing Content for Multiple Platforms
44:51 Coaching Clients on Content Creation
45:37 Balancing Personal and Professional Content
48:36 Overcoming the Fear of Video Content
49:29 The Importance of Authenticity in Content
59:47 The Scarcity Mentality in Social Media
01:01:02 Taking Time Off from Social Media
01:04:41 The Journey of Entrepreneurship
01:12:31 In-House Marketing vs. Outsourcing
01:17:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Most people think of autonomous vehicles as futuristic cars on city streets. But what if the real disruption starts in your backyard; with machines that mow the lawn better than humans can?
In this episode of Founder Talk, I sit down with Ilya Sagalovich, founder of Havenshine, a company building autonomous and semi-autonomous commercial mowers. We dive into how off-road autonomy works, why it’s actually harder than self-driving cars, and the ethical and safety questions that come with building machines people can “play chicken” with.
Ilya shares how he went from tinkering with prototypes in his garage to building a venture-backed company, why lawn care was the perfect entry point for autonomy, and what this wave of AI-powered machines means for jobs, businesses, and society. From path planning and safety kill switches to customer adoption and investor dynamics, this is the unfiltered founder story behind a technology most of us haven’t even considered yet.
You’ll learn:
✅ Why off-road autonomy is often harder than self-driving cars
✅ How semi-autonomous “flock” mowers let one person do the work of many
✅ The safety and ethics challenges of deploying autonomous machines in public
✅ Why adoption depends on cost, regulation, and cultural mindset
✅ How AI and autonomy will reshape not just lawn care, but the future of work
If you’ve been searching “future of autonomous technology,” “AI in landscaping,” or “how AI is changing jobs,” this conversation will open your eyes to what’s coming next.
Connect with Ilya
Guest LinkedIn URL: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ilya-sagalovich-29733bbb/
Guest Website: https://www.havenshine.com
If you are a B2B company that wants to build your own in-house content team instead of outsourcing your content to a marketing agency, we may be a fit for you! Everything you see in our podcast and content is a result of a scrappy, nimble, internal content team along with an AI-powered content systems and process. Check out pricing and services here: https://impaxs.com
Timecodes
00:00 Introduction to Autonomous and AI Innovations
00:07 Exploring Autonomous Landscaping Equipment
02:45 The Journey of Waymo and Autonomous Vehicles
10:06 Ethics and Safety in Autonomous Driving
19:39 Challenges and Real-World Testing
23:10 Customer Reactions and Business Impact
30:03 Founding the Autonomous Mowing Company
33:33 Understanding the Product: Hardware and Software
33:54 Pitching to Manufacturers
35:04 Customer Base and Business Model
36:16 Future of Autonomous Lawn Mowing
40:13 Impact of Autonomous Technology on Jobs
45:00 AI and Human Jobs: Ethical Considerations
57:04 Challenges and Vision for the Future
01:01:06 Advice for New Entrepreneurs
01:02:14 Conclusion and Contact Information
Most founders end up trapped in their own business. They’re the bottleneck, still responsible for sales, still putting out fires, still working in the business instead of on it.
In this episode of Founder Talk, I sit down with Keith Seebeck, founder of Eskaygee, to break down how entrepreneurs can create businesses that run without them. Keith shares his journey from EOS integrator to Pinnacle Guide, why most owners struggle to delegate, and how building the right leadership team is the only way to scale beyond survival.
We dive into the hard truths about letting go, why loyalty to the wrong people can hold you back, and the tactical systems that actually turn chaos into control. Keith also unpacks the Pinnacle framework (People, Purpose, Playbooks, Performance, Profit) and why companies that don’t master these five pillars rarely break past $5M in revenue.
You’ll learn:
✅ Why most founders get stuck as the bottleneck in their business
✅ How to build a leadership team that actually runs without you
✅ The culture shifts that turn unproductive meetings into growth drivers
✅ Why playbooks and processes are your insurance policy against chaos
✅ How accountability transforms both leadership teams and company performance
If you’ve been searching “how to scale my business without burning out,” “how to build a leadership team that runs without me,” or “Pinnacle vs. EOS for entrepreneurs,” this episode delivers the practical, no-fluff truth.
Connect with Keith
Guest LinkedIn URL: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keith-seebeck-168b3/
Guest Website: https://www.eskaygee.com/
If you are a B2B company that wants to build your own in-house content team instead of outsourcing your content to a marketing agency, we may be a fit for you! Everything you see in our podcast and content is a result of a scrappy, nimble, internal content team along with an AI-powered content systems and process. Check out pricing and services here: https://impaxs.com
Timecodes
00:00 Introduction to Business Coaching
01:08 Understanding EOS and Pinnacle
03:01 Challenges Faced by Business Owners
06:11 Delegation and Team Building
12:44 The Importance of Company Culture
14:41 Transition from EOS to Pinnacle
21:21 Building a Vision and Playbooks
30:02 The Importance of Regularly Reviewing Playbooks
30:37 Optimizing Processes with External Help
31:08 The Challenge of Documenting Processes
34:01 The Value of Effective Meetings
35:17 Implementing Accountability in Leadership
38:22 The Role of Rocks in Achieving Goals
47:28 The Impact of AI on Consulting and Coaching
53:21 Advice for Entrepreneurs and Business Owners
58:00 Final Thoughts and Resources
What happens when a former Army Ranger decides to take on the future of logistics? Ryan Walsh, founder and CEO of Valqari, shares the raw truth of building a company that designs universal drone delivery infrastructure.
From securing patents to fighting through regulations, Ryan reveals the behind-the-scenes lessons of turning a sci-fi vision into a business reality.
We dig into what the world will look like when drones deliver everything from prescriptions to auto parts, why focusing on medical delivery first was the hardest but smartest move, and how Ryan bootstrapped his way through millions in patents before investors came on board.
Ryan also opens up about his Army Ranger days, the grit it takes to survive the lows of entrepreneurship, and the one thing founders can’t afford to compromise: integrity.
You’ll learn:
✅ How drone delivery is already transforming industries like healthcare and logistics
✅ Why regulations (not tech) are the biggest barrier to scaling innovation
✅ The founder’s struggle of niching down when your product can serve everyone
✅ How military discipline and resilience directly transfer to entrepreneurship
✅ Why protecting your integrity and network is the ultimate founder advantage
If you’re an entrepreneur, aspiring founder, or simply someone fascinated by the future of logistics and innovation, this conversation is for you. Perfect for anyone searching “best entrepreneur podcast for authentic founder stories” or “podcasts on startup struggles and real lessons.”
Connect with Ryan
Guest LinkedIn URL: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan--walsh/
Guest Website: https://www.valqari.com/
If you’re a B2B company that wants to build your own in-house content team instead of outsourcing your content to a marketing agency, we may be a fit for you! Everything you see in our podcast and content is a result of a scrappy, nimble, internal content team along with AI-powered content systems and processes. Check out pricing and services here: https://impaxs.com
Timecodes
0:00 Introduction and Background
9:39 Military Experience and Training
19:26 Starting the Business
29:57 Combat Experience and Lessons
40:42 Company Growth and Future
In this episode, I sit down with Frank Ziede, CEO of Common Ground Consulting, who’s trained global brands like Tesla, BMW, and Rolls-Royce on how to deliver world-class customer experiences. From his start in retail at 19 to becoming a trusted consultant for some of the world’s most prestigious companies, Frank reveals why the real differentiator isn’t the product, but rather it’s the people behind it.
We explore what it takes to create employees who live the brand, how to design experiences that feel personal and unforgettable, and why emotional intelligence is more valuable than ever in the age of AI. Frank also shares hard-earned lessons on leadership, gratitude, and building trust that keeps customers and employees coming back.
You'll learn:
✅ How Frank Ziede went from retail at 19 to training Tesla, BMW, and Rolls-Royce on customer experience
✅ Why the human side of business matters more than features or price
✅ Practical ways to create memorable, personalized experiences that turn customers into loyal advocates
✅ How gratitude, humility, and authenticity shape great leadership and service
✅ The role of emotional intelligence in building strong connections in an AI-driven world
✅ Lessons from navigating career pivots, setbacks, and the COVID business shutdowns
This show is for entrepreneurs, aspiring founders, and business owners who want more than theory and highlight reels. If you’ve ever searched for “best podcast for aspiring entrepreneurs who want authentic advice” or “podcasts where founders share raw, behind-the-scenes lessons,” you’re in the right place.
Get in touch with Frank Ziede:
Guest LinkedIn URL: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankziede
Guest Website: Frank T. Ziede – Business Leadership Speaker & Corporate Trainer
If you are a B2B company that wants to build your own in-house content team instead of outsourcing to a marketing agency, we may be a fit for you! Everything you see in our podcast and content is the result of a scrappy, nimble internal content team powered by AI-driven systems and processes. Check out pricing and services here: https://impaxs.com
Timecodes
00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
00:11 Training and Consulting for Top Brands
00:58 The Importance of Customer and Employee Experience
04:10 Building Relationships and Networking
12:03 Adapting During COVID-19
24:57 Leadership and Customer Experience Insights
28:37 Personal Preferences and Customer Experience
29:19 Challenges in Customer Experience
30:03 Training and Skills Practice
32:21 Generational Work Ethic
35:35 AI in the Workplace
37:14 The Role of Emotional Intelligence
38:33 Coaching and Consulting in the AI Era
41:24 The Importance of Human Connection
47:14 Podcast Hosting and Storytelling
49:22 Final Thoughts and Reflections
In this episode I sit down with Henry Kaskov, founder of Kaskov Valuations, for a raw, behind-the-scenes conversation about what it really takes to evaluate, grow, and eventually sell a business.
Henry has become the go-to guy when companies need to understand what their business is worth, when it’s the right time to sell, and how to position themselves for maximum valuation. Unlike theory-heavy startup podcasts, this conversation is about the messy middle: hiring the right people, delegating as a founder, making valuation adjustments, and preparing for big transitions like exits, divorce, or generational transfers.
You’ll learn:
✅ When to sell your business, and how to know if the timing is right
✅ How valuations really work (EBITDA, recurring revenue, multiples, and adjustments)
✅ Why hiring proactive, entrepreneurial employees is critical for scaling
✅How AI is disrupting valuations and marketing agencies (and how to stay ahead)The hidden truths about succession planning, divorce valuations, and generational business transfers
✅ Why building predictable revenue streams and reducing risk directly increases company value
This is the kind of real talk you won’t hear on highlight-reel shows like How I Built This or theory-driven shows like Masters of Scale. It’s no-fluff founder wisdom from someone who lives it every day.
If you’re an entrepreneur, aspiring founder, or business owner who wants to know the truth about valuations, exits, and building a business the smart way, this is your episode. Think of this as the best podcast for aspiring entrepreneurs who want authentic advice and behind-the-scenes founder stories.
Get in touch with Henry Kaskov:
If you are a B2B company that wants to build your own in-house content team instead of outsourcing to a marketing agency, we may be a fit for you! Everything you see in our podcast and content comes from a scrappy, nimble internal content team powered by AI-driven systems and processes. Check out pricing and services here: https://impaxs.com
Timecodes
00:00 Introduction to Business Valuation
00:22 Challenges of Scaling a Business
02:04 Hiring the Right Team
04:26 Evaluating Business Worth
08:19 Preparing for Business Sale
12:09 Adjusting Financial Statements
18:15 Importance of Recurring Revenue
23:01 Timing the Sale of Your Business
27:26 Equity and Second Payouts
28:01 Building In-House Content Teams
28:21 Disruption in Marketing Agencies
29:35 AI's Impact on Business Valuation
37:39 The Role of Personal Goodwill in Divorce
45:12 Networking and Business Development
49:33 The Future of Business Transitions
54:20 Conclusion and Contact Information
In this episode of Founder Talk, Gary Benedik shares the journey of launching Arch Advisory Group in the middle of a pandemic, growing it into a seven-figure business, and selling it to Avenica in only three years—without ever planning an exit. Now serving as Avenica's Chief Revenue Officer, Gary opens up about the timing, relationships, and cultural fit that made the acquisition possible, and why it sometimes pays to take the deal sooner rather than later.
Here’s what you’ll learn from Gary:
✅ The real story behind Arch Advisory’s growth and how a chance partnership led to an acquisition offer.
✅ Why cultural alignment and timing can matter more than maximizing valuation.
✅ The biggest mistakes founders make when selling—and what Gary wishes he had done differently.
✅ How Avenica uses data science, AI, and real-world assessments to match talent to roles with incredible accuracy.
✅ Why AI will change recruiting forever, but human connection still wins.
✅ How Gary’s side venture, UnGhosted, is bringing transparency to the hiring process and holding recruiters accountable.
✅ What it’s really like transitioning from founder to executive inside an acquired company.
Whether you’re building to sell, thinking about acquisitions, or curious how AI is reshaping recruitment, this conversation is packed with real-world lessons you can apply right now.
Where to Find Gary Benedik
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/garybenedik/
Website: https://avenica.com/
If you are a B2B company that wants to build your own in-house content team instead of outsourcing your content to a marketing agency, we may be a fit for you! Everything you see in our podcast and content is a result of a scrappy, nimble, internal content team along with an AI-powered content systems and process. Check out pricing and services here: https://impaxs.com
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In this powerful and vulnerable episode of Founder Talk, we sit down with Chris Maliszewski, a leader turned first-time entrepreneur, who was on-site during the Highland Park mass shooting in 2022.
That moment and everything that came after, shattered his world, forced him to confront severe PTSD, and eventually led him down the path to building something new: a mission-driven business with healing and purpose at its core.
But this isn’t just a story about tragedy—it’s a story about transformation.
Here’s what you’ll take away as a founder:
✅ How trauma, grief, or setbacks can be a launchpad—if you give yourself the space to rebuild
✅ Why emotional storytelling isn’t just powerful in fundraising—it’s a tool to move customers, investors, and your team
✅ What it actually means to build a business around purpose and values—and how to do it without sacrificing revenue
✅ The case for “life-first” entrepreneurship: designing a company that gives you control, time freedom, and fulfillment
✅ Tactical tips for showing up differently in a saturated market—and building trust in a skeptical world
✅ A raw conversation about mental health and entrepreneurship—and why founders need to stop pretending they’re fine
If you’ve ever faced a breaking point in your business or life—and had to figure out how to come back stronger—this conversation will hit home.
This is what Founder Talk is all about: the real stuff, beyond the highlight reels.
Hit subscribe for more real founder conversations that go way beyond the highlight reel.
Where to Find Chris Zucchi
If you are a B2B company that wants to build your own in-house content team instead of outsourcing your content to a marketing agency, we may be a fit for you! Everything you see in our podcast and content is a result of a scrappy, nimble, internal content team along with an AI-powered content systems and process. Check out pricing and services here: https://impaxs.com
Subscribe to my weekly CMO briefing for unfiltered insights on the biggest marketing shifts, real-life strategies I’m using to scale companies fast, and key lessons from real-world experience—what’s working, what’s not, and why. No fluff, no filler, just actionable insights you can use immediately. Sign up now to stay ahead: https://impaxs79863.activehosted.com/f/12
In this powerful return episode, Clay Stelzer joins us again to go even deeper into the leadership patterns that shape team performance, culture, and personal growth.
Clay has helped hundreds of founders, CEOs, and executive teams navigate the real work of leadership—not just hitting KPIs, but creating conscious, high-trust teams where honest communication and clear agreements are the norm, not the exception.
Here’s what you’ll learn from Clay:
✅ Why drama in your company almost always comes from one thing: sloppy agreements
✅ The psychology behind why your team isn’t speaking up—and how to fix it fast
✅ A simple framework for making “impeccable agreements” that build trust and accountability
✅ How to stop beating yourself up and start leading from self-acceptance
✅ Real-time coaching insights from a live dynamic between Alex and his content director
✅ How unconscious patterns from childhood show up in leadership—and how to rewrite them
✅ The role of emotional safety, vulnerability, and feedback in company performance
✅ Why upward feedback rarely happens—and how to change that as a founder
✅ How to bring the same tools to your family, friendships, and everyday life
If you’re a founder who wants to create a culture where your people perform, feel empowered, and actually talk to each other—you’ll get massive value from this episode.
Hit subscribe for more real conversations with founders that go beyond the surface and into the work that actually moves the needle.
Where to Find Clay Stelzer
If you are a B2B company that wants to build your own in-house content team instead of outsourcing your content to a marketing agency, we may be a fit for you! Everything you see in our podcast and content is a result of a scrappy, nimble, internal content team along with an AI-powered content systems and process. Check out pricing and services here: https://impaxs.com
Subscribe to my weekly CMO briefing for unfiltered insights on the biggest marketing shifts, real-life strategies I’m using to scale companies fast, and key lessons from real-world experience—what’s working, what’s not, and why. No fluff, no filler, just actionable insights you can use immediately. Sign up now to stay ahead: https://impaxs79863.activehosted.com/f/12
In this episode of Founder Talk, we sit down with Rob Rech, founder of Humans First and a seasoned entrepreneur who has built 10 businesses and successfully exited 7 of them.
Rob’s track record speaks for itself—but what’s even more fascinating is how he did it: by mastering flow state, applying rigorous self-experimentation, and optimizing time and team performance.
Here’s what you’ll learn from Rob:
✅ How flow state can make you 500% more productive—and how to get into it daily
✅ Rob’s exact 3-hour “GSD” time block strategy that changed his business trajectory
✅ The two-question productivity framework that exposes where your time should go
✅ Why ADHD became a secret weapon in his entrepreneurial journey
✅ His behind-the-scenes tactics for building and selling gyms, tech startups, and service companies
✅ How to know if you’re building a lifestyle business or a scalable exit
✅ The biggest mistake founders make when trying to remove themselves from the business
✅ Why emotional intelligence and team development will be the founder’s superpower in the age of AI
✅ How he learned to enjoy the journey and not just chase the outcome
Whether you're trying to scale your first company or build a more fulfilling business model, this episode delivers high-impact strategies, mindset shifts, and operational gold for any founder serious about success.
Where to Find Rob Krecak
If you are a B2B company that wants to build your own in-house content team instead of outsourcing your content to a marketing agency, we may be a fit for you! Everything you see in our podcast and content is a result of a scrappy, nimble, internal content team along with an AI-powered content systems and process. Check out pricing and services here: https://impaxs.com
In this raw and wide-ranging second round of Founder Talk, Duane Draughon returns to unpack what it's really like to grow, downsize, re-evaluate, and redefine success—on your own terms.
We go deep into the mindset shifts Duane has been going through as he reassesses everything from money and ego to purpose and priorities. This episode is as real as it gets.
Here’s what you’ll take away from this powerful conversation:
✅ What happens when your business becomes your identity—and how to break free
✅ Why Duane downsized his office and is rethinking traditional success metrics
✅ The moment he almost shut it all down—and why he didn’t
✅ Why building status symbols (fancy cars, office space, big teams) rarely delivers the fulfillment you think it will
✅ The power of pivoting toward low-cost, high-impact AI content systems (and how Duane’s using them)
✅ What spiritual growth, emotional honesty, and giving back has to do with running a profitable business
✅ Real talk about imposter syndrome, ego, race, fatherhood, and the mental health side of being a founder
✅ What happens when the economy punches your business in the mouth—and how to respond
This is one of the most honest, unfiltered episodes we’ve done and it's exactly the kind of conversation more founders need to be having.
Whether you're building your first million-dollar business or questioning the one you've already built, this episode will challenge your assumptions and leave you thinking long after it's over.
Where to Find Duane Draughon
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/duanedraughon/
Website: https://www.vizxdesign.com/
If you are a B2B company that wants to build your own in-house content team instead of outsourcing your content to a marketing agency, we may be a fit for you! Everything you see in our podcast and content is a result of a scrappy, nimble, internal content team along with an AI-powered content systems and process. Check out pricing and services here: https://impaxs.com
Subscribe to my weekly CMO briefing for unfiltered insights on the biggest marketing shifts, real-life strategies I’m using to scale companies fast, and key lessons from real-world experience—what’s working, what’s not, and why. No fluff, no filler, just actionable insights you can use immediately. Sign up now to stay ahead: https://impaxs79863.activehosted.com/f/12
In this deep and vulnerable episode of Founder Talk, Isabelle shares the personal story behind her “Loud Whisper” philosophy and how the journey from external success to internal alignment changed everything. She reveals the real reason many successful entrepreneurs still feel unfulfilled—and how unresolved trauma, suppressed identity, and societal conditioning keep leaders from truly living in their purpose.
Here’s what you’ll learn from Isabelle:
✅ How to recognize when you're living out of alignment with your authentic self
✅ The difference between self-confidence and self-worth (and why most leaders get it wrong)
✅ How childhood conditioning and societal pressure can disconnect you from your gifts
✅ The origin of “Loud Whisper” and why amplifying your voice is crucial to personal power
✅ Why healing your inner child is the key to unlocking fulfillment, even if you’re already successful
✅ A raw look at the discrimination Isabelle and her husband faced while building a 7-figure business—and how they overcame it
✅ How to navigate marriage, business, and life with honest communication and mutual growth
This episode is a must-listen for founders who feel like they’re crushing it on paper—but something still feels off inside. If you’ve ever asked yourself “Is this it?”, Isabelle’s story and insights will help you find clarity, wholeness, and purpose again.
Hit subscribe for more Founder conversations that give you real insights, no fluff.
Where to Find Isabelle Drawn
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabel-draughon-acc-cpcc-5489a762/
Website: https://isabeldraughon.com/
Want to work with us?
Here at Impaxs Marketing we partner with 7–8 figure B2B companies to help them build their own in-house content team, take control of their brand, and grow their business through video content and social media marketing. No need to outsource your content to an agency ever again. We do this by implementing our proven 5-step process we call the “Brand5 Content System.”
Check out pricing and services here: https://impaxs.com
Subscribe to my weekly CMO briefing
Get unfiltered insights on the biggest marketing shifts, real-life strategies I’m using to scale companies fast, and key lessons from real-world experience—what’s working, what’s not, and why. No fluff, no filler, just actionable insights you can use immediately. Sign up now to stay ahead: https://impaxs79863.activehosted.com/f/12
In this episode of Founder Talk, we sit down with Blake Harris—an asset protection attorney, founder of the nation's largest exclusively offshore asset protection law firm, and a creator with over 250,000 followers across social platforms.
We go deep into the powerful intersection of content, credibility, and business growth. Blake breaks down how building a personal brand transformed his firm, why he ditched traditional marketing agencies to build an in-house content team, and how offshore trusts are becoming a must-know tool for founders looking to protect their assets.
Here’s what you’ll learn from Blake:
✅ Why offshore asset protection trusts are exploding in popularity and how they work
✅ Why building a strong personal brand isn’t optional if you want to stay relevant and dominate your market
✅ How to build an in-house content machine that actually drives revenue (and saves money)
✅ What most B2B professionals get dead wrong about social media—and how to fix it
✅ How Blake combines in-person relationship building with video content to drive long-term business growth
✅ The real ROI of content creation for founders (hint: it’s not just clients)
✅ How crypto and AI are reshaping the legal world—and what it means for business owners
✅ The mindset shift that separates leaders who win from those who get left behind
Whether you’re a founder, service-based entrepreneur, or professional looking to build real authority and protect what you’ve built, this conversation is loaded with real talk, practical lessons, and founder-to-founder perspective.
Hit subscribe for more founder conversations that give you real insights, no fluff.
Where to Find Blake Harris
Want to work with us?
At Impaxs Marketing we partner with 7-8 figure B2B companies to help them build their own internal content team, take control of their brand, and grow their business through video content and social media marketing. No need to outsource your content to an agency ever again! We do this by implementing our proven 5-step process we call, “Brand5 Content System”. Check out pricing and services here: https://impaxs.com
Subscribe to my weekly CMO briefing for unfiltered insights on the biggest marketing shifts, real-life strategies I’m using to scale companies fast, and key lessons from real-world experience—what’s working, what’s not, and why. No fluff, no filler, just actionable insights you can use immediately. Sign up now to stay ahead: https://impaxs79863.activehosted.com/f/12
In this episode of Founder Talk, we sit down with Christina Brady, CEO and Co-Founder of Luster, an AI-powered platform that's fundamentally transforming how sales teams are trained, coached, and developed.
Drawing from 18+ years of experience as a top revenue leader, trainer, and exec coach, Christina shares the origin story behind Luster and the painful gap it solves: most companies can't actually see where their sales teams are struggling until it's too late.
Here’s what you’ll learn from Christina:
✅ How Luster uses generative AI and predictive analytics to map skill gaps before they impact revenue
✅ Why most enablement and coaching strategies fail—and what founders can do differently
✅ The power of running real-life sales simulations with AI agents trained to replicate tough buyers
✅ Real-world results: 42% higher average contract values, 50% faster new-hire ramp times, and 2x pipeline efficiency
✅ How Christina went from CRO to venture-backed founder—raising a multi-million dollar seed round with no prior exits
✅ Why human connection still matters more than ever—even in an AI-driven future
✅ The real story behind founding Luster (including a hilarious in-flight LinkedIn encounter with Alex)
✅ Founder's life lessons: balancing ambition, motherhood, and leadership with clarity and purpose
Whether you're building a sales team, scaling an AI product, or looking for practical wisdom on what it takes to go from concept to venture-backed execution—this episode is a masterclass in modern go-to-market leadership.
Where to Find Christina Brady
Want to work with us? Here at Impaxs Marketing we partner with 7-8 figure B2B companies to help them build their own internal content team, take control of their brand, and grow their business through video content and social media marketing. No need to outsource your content to an agency ever again! We do this by implementing our proven 5-step process we call, “Brand5 Content System”. https://impaxs.com
Subscribe to my weekly CMO briefing for unfiltered insights on the biggest marketing shifts, real-life strategies I’m using to scale companies fast, and key lessons from real-world experience—what’s working, what’s not, and why. No fluff, no filler—just actionable insights you can use immediately. Sign up now to stay ahead:
https://impaxs79863.activehosted.com/f/12