In an interview on The Great Business Stories of St. Louis with Dr. Mike Smith, Jeff Minor, Co-Founder & CEO, and Rachel Minor, Co-Founder & COO of ReveelData, share their journey of building a company that is transforming how businesses harness data. They discuss the inspiration behind ReveelData, their mission to simplify data analytics, and how their innovative solutions help companies make smarter, more strategic decisions. Jeff and Rachel also highlight the challenges they've faced as entrepreneurs, the lessons they've learned along the way, and their vision for the future of data-driven business strategies. Their story is a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and teamwork in the fast-evolving tech industry.
ReveelData on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/reveeldata/
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In an interview on The Great Business Stories of St. Louis with Dr. Mike Smith, David Berger, founder and CEO of Envision by Design, shared his journey in building a full-service marketing agency that bridges the gap between print and digital marketing. He discussed the early challenges of establishing the company, from securing clients to adapting to the rapidly changing advertising landscape. Berger highlighted Envision by Design’s commitment to providing innovative marketing solutions, combining traditional print strategies with cutting-edge digital campaigns to help businesses grow. He emphasized the importance of staying ahead of industry trends, fostering strong client relationships, and maintaining a results-driven approach. Throughout the conversation, he offered valuable insights into the role of creativity, adaptability, and strategic planning in driving long-term business success.
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In an interview on the Great Business Stories of St. Louis with Dr. Mike Smith, Greg Hoffman, one of the founding members and original creators of RYZE Adventure Park in Maryland Heights, shared insights into the park's growth and unique offerings. Located at the bustling I-270 and I-70 interchange, RYZE Adventure Park draws attention from over 93 million vehicles passing annually, with a significant portion able to see the park. After a slow start, the park focused heavily on digital marketing and increased advertising budgets, leading to an impressive 46% growth in 2024, while many competitors saw declines. The park’s concept emerged as a response to the mental health struggles during the COVID-19 pandemic, when outdoor recreation and social connection became essential, especially for younger adults who missed opportunities for activities during lockdowns. With affordable annual memberships and a variety of family-friendly activities—such as rock climbing, a scenic miniature golf course, zip lines, free-fall experiences, and yard games—RYZE offers something for everyone. They also provide food and beverages, including beer and hard seltzers. Memberships and holiday gift cards have become an essential sales strategy, and the park sees growing interest in experience-based gifts. Emphasizing inclusivity, customer service, and the mental health benefits of outdoor recreation, Greg and the team at RYZE Adventure Park aim to continue fostering growth, serving the St. Louis community, and offering fresh-air entertainment for all ages.
Greg's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-hoffmann-01aaa313/
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In an interview on "Great Business Stories of St. Louis" with Dr. Mike Smith, Luke Schuette, the founder of Renuteq, discussed his journey in building the only U.S. company certified for structurally engineered bamboo. He has partnered with global leaders such as Amazon and BMW. Despite facing challenges, including the pandemic, Schuette's passion for sustainable materials and solutions-driven approach has fueled the company's success. He highlighted the significance of leadership, collaboration with architects and engineers, and the importance of creating a business that can operate independently of its founder. Based in St. Louis, Renuteq is dedicated to driving innovation, and Schuette invites others to explore their cutting-edge facility and sustainable solutions.
Luke's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-d-sch%C3%BCette/
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In this interview with Dr. Mike Smith, Mike Martin, founder of Mike Martin Media, reflects on his 16-year journey building a successful video production company based in the Grand Center Arts District of St. Louis. Specializing in professional storytelling, brand-consistent video production, and long-term client partnerships, the company has worked on diverse projects ranging from recruitment videos in oil fields and barges to educational content on critical topics like sepsis and innovative methane capture technology. Martin emphasizes the importance of professionalism and quality in creating content that businesses cannot replicate in-house, likening it to crafting a professional sign to represent a brand effectively. While managing the industry's cyclical nature and leveraging AI to enhance efficiency, Martin credits his team's character, collaboration, and ability to connect with clients as pivotal to their success. With two Emmy Awards and multiple nominations, he values client trust and long-term relationships over accolades, offering free consultations to help companies unlock the potential of impactful video content.
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In this interview with Dr. Mike Smith, Clint Overton, Managing Partner of Boardroom Bullpen, shares the story behind his premium fractional executive services firm, which he co-founded to support growth-stage companies with experienced C-suite talent. With a commitment to transparency, Boardroom Bullpen offers month-to-month engagements, allowing clients to experience their value without long-term obligations. Overton emphasizes the importance of a trusted network for sourcing executives and notes that every team member has a strong background in Fortune 500 companies or high-revenue businesses. Unlike short-term consultancies, Boardroom Bullpen focuses on sustainable support, with clients typically engaging their services for 18 to 36 months. He highlights the firm’s leadership style, which centers on aligning team members' passions with their roles, ensuring employee satisfaction and client success. He advises entrepreneurs to set a clear vision—what he calls a “North Star”—to guide business growth with intention and purpose. Looking forward, Overton is confident that their unique model and dedication to quality will continue to drive long-term success for Boardroom Bullpen and its clients.
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In an interview with Dr. Mike Smith, John Boll, the owner of The Credit Care Company, shared his 15-year journey in the credit repair industry, highlighting the importance of listening, problem-solving, and personalized service. He detailed strategies for improving credit scores, including maintaining a diverse credit mix, keeping credit card usage below 20%, and avoiding high-interest debt traps. He emphasized his commitment to helping clients achieve financial goals by offering free consultations and tailored action plans. Looking ahead, he revealed plans to launch a nonprofit to assist individuals in recovery and rebuild their financial lives, reflecting his dedication to making a positive impact.
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In an interview with Dr. Mike Smith, Sheila Buswell, the founder of Bustle Biomedical, discussed her groundbreaking device called "Upward Mobility," designed to assist patients in rehabilitation hospitals with essential daily tasks like toileting. This innovative solution helps patients regain independence while reducing the physical strain on healthcare workers, potentially decreasing injury rates. The device aims to enhance the healthcare system by improving patient dignity and streamlining care. With plans for FDA approval and future investment, "Upward Mobility" marks a significant advancement in medical technology and patient care.
sheila.buswell@buswellbiomedical.com
www.buswellbiomedical.com
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In this interview, Dr. Mike Smith from Action Coach St. Louis West talks with Dr. Maureen Hughes, founder of Total Harmony Integrated Wellness, about her 10-year journey in health and wellness, specializing in Thai Massage. Dr. Hughes explains how her practice blends ancient hands-on therapy techniques with modern wellness principles, helping clients through assisted yoga-like stretches, compression, and acupressure. She shares her unique path, from her graduate school experience in yoga to working in biotechnology sales before transitioning fully into massage therapy. The conversation also touches on the impact of COVID-19, challenges in acquiring clients, balancing personal and professional life, and misconceptions about being a business owner. Dr. Hughes emphasizes the holistic nature of her work, integrating body, mind, and emotional healing, and how she helps clients achieve overall well-being.
For more information on their services, visit http://www.totalharmony.com/.
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In an interview with Dr. Mike Smith, Wayne Coleman, Managing Director at Armanino and founder of a royalty compliance organization, shared his journey from auditing for Johnny Cash to building a niche business that ensures artists, companies, and licensees receive proper royalty payments. In 1971, Coleman leveraged his CPA skills to design audit procedures for entertainment contracts, working with legends like Michael Jackson and institutions like Motown. Over the decades, his business evolved alongside technological advancements, shifting from physical record audits to navigating the complexities of digital streaming and global intellectual property valuation. Now part of Armanino, Coleman reflects on his growth, emphasizes the importance of skilled teams, and envisions a bright future with continued opportunities in a digital-first industry, inspiring the audience to embrace the potential of this evolving landscape.
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In an interview with Dr. Mike Smith, David Phillips, owner of Amicus IT Solutions, shared his 30-year journey in the IT industry, emphasizing the importance of persistence, adaptability, and a people-first approach. Inspired by entrepreneurial parents, Phillips started his business to help small and midsize companies navigate technological challenges. He highlighted the value of joining a peer group of IT business owners, leveraging their collective experience to grow and adapt his company. Phillips stressed the need for employee training and compliance by discussing trends like AI and cybersecurity. Balancing business and personal life, he likened running a business to raising a child, requiring care, growth, and independence. Phillips underscored his firm’s focus on serving professionals like attorneys and accountants, emphasizing collaboration and trust.
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In an interview with Dr. Mike Smith, Dave Chronister, founder of Parameter Security, discusses his journey since launching the cybersecurity firm in 2007. His company specializes in security assessments, PCI certifications, digital forensics, and managed services. Despite initial challenges—such as starting the business right before the 2008 financial crisis—he attributes their growth to customer trust and building long-term relationships. Chronister emphasizes the importance of creating a positive work environment through flexibility and work-life balance, citing their core value: "Moderation is our superpower." Reflecting on lessons learned, he shares that expanding service offerings earlier would have helped and stresses the need for clear boundaries in personal and business life, especially since starting the company with his former spouse added strain. Looking ahead, he aims to focus more on profitability rather than just revenue, emphasizing sustainable growth and quality over expansion.
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Dr. Mike Smith hosts "The Greatest Businesses in St. Louis" podcast and YouTube series, where he interviews notable local entrepreneurs. In this episode, he speaks with Brian Pearson Jr., founder of EDUrain Inc., a platform designed to solve student housing challenges. Based on his experience with the difficulties of college housing, Brian explains how EDUrain provides a custom housing solution that acts like a specialized Zillow for college students. The platform connects students with property listings, roommates, and financial tools while offering lease management and rent processing services for property managers and colleges. The company has grown rapidly since launching the product in 2022, with over 40,000 users and partnerships with multiple universities. Brian attributes the success to his team's commitment, diverse backgrounds, and hands-on approach to addressing student housing needs. He emphasizes the importance of hard work, trust, and maintaining relationships to foster personal and professional growth.
"Byron Pierson Jr" bryon@edurain.org
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Dr. Mike Smith hosts the podcast and a YouTube series, "The Greatest Businesses in St. Louis." In a recent episode, he interviewed Patrick Ritter from Core Planning, a fee-only financial planning firm with 37 self-employed advisors. Core Planning, founded in 2018 by Guy Penn, offers a unique "farmer's market" model where advisors operate independently, focusing on providing fiduciary advice without product sales. Patrick shared his journey of being the first advisor on the platform, noting the challenges and growth over the years, particularly navigating the financial services landscape in St. Louis. He emphasized Core Planning's culture of independence and flexibility, which attracts experienced advisors like CFPs and CFAs. Patrick also discussed the impact of COVID-19 on client interactions, the firm’s digital transformation, and how personal passions and authentic connections have contributed to business growth. Reflecting on the industry, Patrick highlighted the importance of long-term planning and sticking to financial strategies amid market fluctuations. He encouraged prospective clients to visit Core Planning’s website for more information.
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In this interview, we hear from Sharon Crow Chapman, CEO and principal designer of Sharon Chapman Design, founded in 2018. Despite launching just before the pandemic, Sharon's firm has thrived, specializing in transforming spaces through interior design. She discusses her journey from having degrees in advertising and communication to becoming a self-taught expert in design, underscoring the importance of passion and continuous learning. Sharon reflects on her experience managing employees, emphasizing the value of teamwork and fitting the right personalities into the business. She highlights the versatility of her company, which offers services ranging from custom cabinetry to full-scale property developments and rental furnishings. Sharon also shares her strategies for balancing her demanding work life with being a mother. She credits her business growth to the support and accountability of business coaching and networking through groups like Business Network International (BNI).
For more information on their services, visit: www.sharonchapmandesign.com
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In this interview, we hear from Ricky Hall from Nutrition HQ, a vitamin supplement retail chain with stores in Quincy, Illinois, Mishawaka, Indiana, and a new one opening soon in Vidalia, Georgia. Ricky shares his business journey, emphasizing the importance of surrounding oneself with other entrepreneurs and continuous self-education. He highlights managing staff and inventory as crucial challenges and values energy, passion, and customer care in employees. Nutrition HQ thrives on community engagement, personalized customer service, and diverse product offerings, including grab-and-go meals and in-body scans. Ricky attributes his growth to filling market voids and genuine customer care. He balances personal life with business demands by setting boundaries and finds acquiring quality franchise leads challenging. His marketing strategy involves community involvement, strategic radio, social media, and mass mailings. Ricky values openness in sharing business insights, believing in learning from failures, and identifies the mid-30s to 40s females as his ideal customers due to their broader purchasing needs.
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In this interview, we hear from Shaun Duvall, founder of the IT staffing company Daivari. He shared insights about his business, emphasizing the importance of consulting, direct hire, and staff augmentation in the IT space. He highlighted the significant changes and challenges faced, especially during COVID-19, and the implementation of the EOS system to streamline processes. Shaun discussed the qualities he seeks in employees, internally and externally, emphasizing a serving heart and long-term vision. He shared strategies for fostering a positive work environment, such as team collaboration incentives and community service programs. Shaun also touched on the importance of continuous learning and leadership development and the necessity of maintaining a balance between personal and professional life. On his business journey, Shaun emphasized the importance of accountability, holistic employee development, and adapting to market fluctuations for sustained growth and success.
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In this interview, we hear from Mark Mattei, the founder of ME and Media, a video production and marketing company started in 2020 by Mark and his wife. Mark explains that their business creates a wide range of video content for businesses, including YouTube videos, social media reels, website videos, and TV commercials, with a strong emphasis on content that delivers a return on investment through effective marketing strategies. Initially launched during the pandemic using severance equipment from their previous jobs, ME and Media has doubled its annual growth over the past three years. Mark attributes their success to their hard work, strategic networking, and the creativity of their dedicated team. Despite the challenges of running a business with a spouse, they maintain their roles and communication to balance their professional and personal lives. Mark highlights the importance of targeting the right audience, understanding client needs, and adapting to changes brought about by the pandemic. Their ideal customers are businesses seeking growth with sufficient marketing budgets, and they value partnerships with other video professionals to handle various project demands.
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In this interview, we hear from Brett Schnitger, CEO of Stars Design Group. Brett leads a company that designs, develops, and produces apparel through 67 factories in 14 countries. Based in St. Louis, with international offices, Brett shares his entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the importance of learning from mistakes and informed decision-making. He highlights the need to hire employees who align with company culture and the balance between empowerment and accountability. Brett discusses the apparel industry's shift from domestic to global production and the interconnectedness of the global economy. Managing a global business requires staying relevant through continuous evolution and balancing personal life with business demands. His ideal customers are medium to large companies, and he values connectors that facilitate meaningful business relationships. More information can be found on their website and podcast, "Clothing Culture."
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In this interview, we hear from Jamie Jay, CEO and founder of Bottleneck Distant Assistance, the world's first dedicated distance assistant company. Jamie explains that Bottleneck provides skilled human assistants for various administrative tasks, especially post-COVID, differentiating it from traditional virtual assistants. In his 18 years in the industry, Jamie shares that he would have focused on documentation and systems to reduce overwhelm and stress. He emphasizes creating a positive work culture where employees feel empowered to voice their opinions. Jamie also highlights Bottleneck's low turnover rate due to their rigorous vetting and personality assessments. He discusses the challenge and importance of educating others about the new category of distant assistance and attributes the company's growth to its specialization in six key administrative roles. Jamie's insights on category design and the importance of differentiation offer valuable lessons for businesses aiming to stand out in competitive markets.
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