Top Business Leaders Show

Paul Feith is the President and Founder of Paul Gregory Media, a digital marketing agency specializing in serving nonprofits and mission-driven organizations. Under Paul's leadership, Paul Gregory Media has become a Certified B Corp and has helped hundreds of nonprofits increase their visibility and impact, leveraging innovative strategies and technology-driven solutions. Paul is deeply involved in the nonprofit community, often serving on boards and supporting causes that make a real difference. He is especially passionate about helping organizations tell their stories effectively and utilize digital tools for measurable social good. In this episode… Nonprofits often face unique challenges when it comes to marketing, from limited resources to the struggle of telling their stories effectively. How can organizations maximize their impact and reach the right audiences without the budgets or expertise of major corporations? What strategies truly make a difference for mission-driven brands in a crowded digital world? Paul Feith tackled these challenges by founding Paul Gregory Media, an agency devoted specifically to serving nonprofits. Drawing from his own experiences on nonprofit boards, Paul realized that these organizations need specialized marketing that addresses their diverse constituents, from donors to beneficiaries. He discusses how his agency guides nonprofits through creating consistent branding, effective web design, and compelling storytelling, ensuring messages resonate across all channels. Paul also shares how tools like Google Ad Grants and advanced social media analytics can empower nonprofits to stretch their marketing dollars further, measure performance, and grow their support base. His data-driven approach not only saves nonprofits time but also enables them to focus more on their core missions. On this episode of Top Business Leaders Show, John Corcoran welcomes Paul Feith, President and Founder of Paul Gregory Media, to discuss nonprofit marketing strategy, branding, storytelling, social media, and digital tools that help mission-driven organizations grow their impact and reach more supporters. Paul dives into the nuances of website strategy and outreach techniques. He also shares insights on leveraging limited resources and crafting authentic narratives to increase visibility and funding.

David Deane-Spread is Founder of Metattude, a leadership and business turnaround consultancy focused on behavioral transformation. With more than 25 years of experience coaching CEOs and executives, he has worked across Australia and Europe in both public and private companies. Trained in leadership within the Australian Defence Force and law enforcement agencies, David brings a disciplined, systems-based approach to business transformation. Through Metattude, he helps organizations prevent failure by aligning leadership behavior, culture, and strategic execution. In this episode… Business turnarounds are rarely about strategy alone; they are about leadership behavior and organizational culture. Many companies attempt to fix performance issues through systems or restructuring, without addressing the attitudes and conversations driving results. How can leaders shift their thinking and behavior to prevent failure and create sustainable growth? According to David Deane-Spread, successful turnarounds begin with understanding that culture is the sum of attitudes, behaviors, and conversations inside a business. He explains that leaders must first diagnose root causes, align around new behavioral standards, and develop the courage to have necessary conversations. By mastering the four controllables — thoughts, feelings, words, and actions — leaders can shift outcomes and prevent costly strategic mistakes. On this episode of Top Business Leaders Show, John Corcoran welcomes David Deane-Spread, Founder of Metattude, for a conversation about preventing business failure through leadership behavior. David shares his ABC framework of attitudes, behaviors, and conversations, explains why culture drives customer experience, and breaks down the Intel case study to show how fear-based decisions can destroy value. He also outlines practical steps for aligning teams and driving growth.

Sean Patton is the President of No Limit Leaders, a leadership development and executive coaching organization. A former U.S. Army Special Forces Green Beret commander and Airborne Ranger, Sean brings elite military experience to the world of business leadership. Through coaching, speaking, and his podcast, No Limit Leadership, he helps executives lead themselves first in order to lead others with clarity and purpose. He's also the author of A Warrior's Mindset: The Six Keys to Greatness. In this episode… Modern leadership requires more than just hitting KPIs—it demands emotional intelligence, purpose, and personal growth. Many professionals operate on autopilot, managing tasks instead of truly leading people and culture. How can leaders inspire trust, drive transformation, and stay aligned with their own vision while serving others? According to Sean Patton, who coaches executives and designs leadership experiences for No Limit Leaders, everything starts with self-leadership. Drawing from his military roots, Sean teaches that the best leaders cultivate clarity, embody their values, and create cultures where feedback, vision, and individual goals align. He shares practical strategies for embracing feedback, shifting mindset, and becoming a person others genuinely want to follow. On this episode of The Top Business Leaders Show, Chad Franzen hosts Sean Patton, President of No Limit Leaders, for a conversation about cultivating self-leadership, creating resilient workplace cultures, and why even elite teams need strong leadership support. Sean unpacks his approach to coaching, stories from the military, and mindset shifts that unlock exponential growth.

Jim Dunlop is the Founder and Managing Partner at Advent Partners, a Gettysburg, Pennsylvania-based wealth management and financial planning firm. A Certified Financial Partner with over two decades in the financial services industry, Jim has developed a niche focus on helping faith-based clients align their wealth with their values. He is also the host of the podcast You Can't Take It With You, which explores generosity, legacy planning, and impactful giving. Through Advent Partners, Jim supports clients in making meaningful decisions about their financial futures while planning with purpose. In this episode… Faith-based financial planning can offer a meaningful framework for managing wealth with purpose. As more people accumulate resources, many are asking deeper questions about legacy, generosity, and what happens to their money when they're gone. How can financial advisors guide clients toward intentional giving and legacy planning? According to Jim Dunlop, a seasoned wealth advisor, legacy planning starts with aligning finances to core values. After years of helping clients navigate wealth decisions, Jim emphasizes the power of generosity — whether it's supporting family, donating to community causes, or creating lasting impact through charitable giving. Through his firm and podcast, he encourages clients to plan wisely and give meaningfully, even before the end of life. On this episode of The Top Business Leaders Show, John Corcoran welcomes Jim Dunlop, Founder and Managing Partner at Advent Partners, for a conversation about scaling a financial practice during a crisis, building a faith-aligned client base, and why generous clients often experience the most joy. Jim also shares insights on merging firms, planning with purpose, and the story behind his podcast, You Can't Take It With You.

Gregg Horan is the Founder and Managing Partner of The Greggory, an upscale American restaurant in South Barrington, Illinois. Before launching The Greggory, he spent nearly 30 years with Gibsons Restaurant Group, where he helped open and operate several high-profile establishments, including Gibsons Steakhouse and the Polo Bar in New York. Gregg partnered with longtime colleagues Bill Veremis and Chef Jose Sosa to form Hirth Hospitality, combining decades of expertise in hospitality and culinary innovation. His mission is to bring big-city dining and personalized service to the suburban market. In this episode… Restaurants are shifting focus beyond just food, emphasizing hospitality and community to stand out in competitive suburban markets. As food lovers seek experiences that blend high-end ambiance with everyday accessibility, leaders are rethinking how they design and manage their spaces. What does it take to launch a new restaurant that feels both luxurious and welcoming? According to Gregg Horan, who co-founded The Greggory and oversees its operations for Hearth Hospitality, success starts with deep industry experience and a personal passion for hospitality. By leveraging the design insights of trusted partners, a hands-on culinary team, and lessons learned from his decades at Gibsons, Gregg created a space that’s both visually stunning and community-driven. The Greggory’s menu, ambiance, and customer service model reflect a seamless blend of luxury and approachability tailored for suburban diners. On this episode of Top Business Leaders Show, Chad Franzen welcomes Gregg Horan, Co-founder of The Greggory, for a conversation about building a standout restaurant brand in South Barrington. Gregg shares insights from his time at Gibson’s, explains the thought process behind The Greggory’s menu and design, and opens up about the personal investment and risk involved in starting a new venture.

John Grace is the Founder and President of Investors Advantage Corp., a Westlake Village, California-based financial advisory firm. With over four decades of experience, John is known for his client-first approach, emphasizing data-driven decision-making and loss mitigation. Under his leadership, Investor's Advantage has established a regional stronghold managing over $1 trillion in assets through its collaboration with LPL Financial Corp. A renowned financial advisor and author, John translates complex economic data into actionable intelligence through his work as a contributing writer for Pacific Coast Business Times. In this episode… Mentorship can be a powerful catalyst in shaping a person’s career, especially in industries where representation is lacking. Too often, young professionals miss out on guidance that could unlock their potential and set them on a transformative path. How can a single mentor alter the course of someone’s life and career trajectory? According to John Grace, who founded and leads Investors Advantage Corp., his entry into the financial world began with an unexpected offer from the father of a friend — a seasoned advisor who saw promise in him and offered to be his mentor. That relationship gave John not only the technical knowledge to earn his license but also the confidence to succeed in a field where few looked like him. Decades later, he continues that legacy by mentoring the next generation, including the grandson of his original mentor. On this episode of the Top Business Leaders Show, Rise25’s John Corcoran welcomes John Grace, Founder and President of Investors Advantage Corp., for a conversation about financial resilience, mentorship in underserved communities, and what makes engineers the ideal clients. John also offers powerful advice on independent thinking in a saturated financial world and the importance of proactive planning for uncertain futures.

Odette D’Aniello is the Founder and CEO of Celebrity Cake Studio, a family-owned and operated retail cake boutique. The company has received numerous awards, including winning Best of Western Washington several times. With experience in the food industry, business strategy sales, and marketing, Odette has obtained additional skills in product design and brand development, event management, and team building. She is also the Owner of Dragonfly Cakes, the wholesale sister company to Celebrity Cake Studio, designing, developing, and manufacturing delicious handmade and clean-label petit fours, tea cakes, and mini desserts. Beyond her entrepreneurial ventures, she hosts the Celebrity Gourmet Podcast, where she shares insights from successful individuals in the food and beverage sector. ​ In this episode… Many entrepreneurs struggle to find their niche, especially after experiencing failure or burnout in their initial ventures. How can you pivot from an unsustainable business model to a more profitable and fulfilling path without losing the passion that drove you in the first place? Baker and entrepreneur Odette D’Aniello’s first café business attracted customers but failed financially. After a chance encounter at a wedding expo, Odette recognized the value of focusing solely on custom cakes — a skill she had honed since childhood. By trusting her intuition, closing the café overnight, and boldly repositioning her business, Odette transformed her struggling venture into a thriving cake studio. Embracing risk, creativity, and a clear sense of purpose allowed her to transform a difficult situation into a long-term success. Tune in to this episode of Top Business Leaders Show as host John Corcoran interviews Odette D’Aniello, Founder and CEO of Celebrity Cake Studio and Dragonfly Cakes, about reinventing a business for greater impact. Odette shares insights on leading a family business, cultivating mindfulness as a leader, and navigating crises like 9/11 and COVID-19.

Mark Hiddleson is the Owner of Specialized Storage Solutions, Inc., a nationwide logistics company with industry-leading warehouse storage solutions. It provides clients with innovative products, facility layouts, and designs to optimize their logistics operations. With several decades of service experience in the warehousing and logistics industry, Mark has held leadership roles in several professional industry organizations. Using a holistic approach, he also has experience in equipment material handling, operations management, supply chain optimization, professional development, and public speaking. In this episode… What if you could integrate the best scientific and holistic practices to enhance your personal growth, elevate your business, and make a significant contribution to your community? Learn how a thriving entrepreneur and author leverages modern strategies for self-improvement while fostering a positive impact. Mark Hiddleson shares his journey of transforming his personal and professional life by embracing holistic practices. He discusses how his early exposure to visualization and self-improvement techniques laid the foundation for his success in the storage solutions niche. Mark's path led him to establish Specialized Storage Solutions and host the Tao of Pizza podcast, which focuses on integrating personal growth with business strategies. His story exemplifies the power of visualization and self-awareness in overcoming challenges, such as leaving a lucrative corporate job to start his own business, and how those practices have helped him navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship. In this episode of the Top Business Leaders Show, John Corcoran chats with Mark Hiddleson, Owner of Specialized Storage Solutions, about blending spiritual growth with business acumen, building relationships, and creating a thriving ecosystem within their enterprises. Mark emphasizes holistic development, showcasing how personal growth can transform one's approach to business and life. He shares lessons on embracing challenges, leveraging strengths, and fostering connections that lead to long-term success.

Carl Comeaux is the CEO of Crust Pizza Co., a rapidly expanding pizza brand recognized for its nostalgic dining experience and dedication to quality. Under Carl's leadership, Crust Pizza Co. has grown to 30 locations across Texas and Louisiana, with plans to expand further into the southeast US. His innovative strategies and passion for creating memorable dining experiences have been pivotal in the brand's success within the competitive restaurant industry. In this episode… The restaurant industry is constantly evolving, with successful brands finding innovative ways to stand out in a competitive market. What are the key ingredients for a rapidly growing pizza franchise to achieve success and maintain consistent quality across multiple locations? According to restaurant CEO and franchisor Carl Comeaux, the key to success lies in a combination of factors. These include offering a unique and high-quality product, implementing a hybrid service model that balances efficiency with customer experience, and utilizing cutting-edge technology for operations and customer engagement. Carl emphasizes the importance of fresh ingredients, daily-made dough, and proprietary recipes for sauce and cheese. He also stresses the significance of selecting the right franchisees who align with brand values and are committed to community involvement. On this episode of the Top Business Leaders Show, Rise25's Chad Franzen welcomes Carl Comeaux, CEO of Crust Pizza Co., to chat about the brand's rapid expansion, keys to franchisee success, and innovative strategies in the pizza industry. Carl discusses the importance of product quality, franchisee selection, community involvement, and the development of proprietary technology to enhance operations and customer experience.

Beau Maxon is the Founder and Owner of Park City Company and multiple Mid City Vapor Lounge locations. He is an experienced entrepreneur who recently opened a Beans & Brews location in Santa Clara, Utah. Known for his diverse business ventures, Beau has successfully founded a cannabis processing facility and serves as a commercial real estate landlord. He is passionate about advocating for innovation and healthier alternatives against big tobacco and pharmaceutical giants. In this episode… The vaping industry is heavily regulated and politically charged, presenting unique challenges for entrepreneurs. What does it take to succeed in such a complex business environment? According to Beau Maxon, an experienced entrepreneur and business owner, success in the vaping industry requires complete immersion and obsession. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the industry inside and out, including its regulatory landscape and political dynamics. Beau became politically active within six months of opening his first store, participating in lawsuits against governmental entities and working closely with state legislatures. This involvement helped him grasp the intricacies of the industry, from product knowledge to consumer preferences, and enabled him to navigate the complex regulatory environment effectively. On this episode of the Top Business Leaders Show, Rise25's Chad Franzen welcomes Beau Maxon, Owner of Park City Vapor Company and Mid City Vapor Lounge, to chat about his entrepreneurial journey, the challenges of the vaping industry, and his strategies for success. Beau discusses his transition from day trading to business ownership, the importance of political engagement in regulated industries, and his approach to creating standout vape shops through superior build-outs and exceptional customer service.

Jorge Llapur is Co-founder and Managing Partner of Cuban Guys Restaurants, a vibrant eatery known for serving delicious Cuban fritas and authentic Cuban cuisine. With over 25 years of experience in multi-unit leadership within the restaurant industry, Jorge has successfully expanded Cuban Guys to five locations and a food truck, showcasing his commitment to culinary excellence and community engagement. Jorge's journey from working at Burger King to leading Cuban Guys highlights his entrepreneurial spirit and passion for Cuban flavors. In this episode… The restaurant industry offers diverse opportunities for entrepreneurs to combine their passion for food with business acumen. How can aspiring restaurateurs leverage their experience to create successful fast-casual concepts? According to Jorge Llapur, who co-founded Cuban Guys Restaurants, success in the fast-casual restaurant industry comes from blending culinary passion with operational expertise. Jorge's journey from a part-time job at Burger King to founding his own Cuban-inspired fast-food chain demonstrates the value of learning from established brands and applying that knowledge to create a unique concept. He emphasizes the importance of understanding all aspects of the business, from marketing to facilities management, especially when starting a new venture. On this episode of the Top Business Leaders Show, Rise25's Chad Franzen welcomes Jorge Llapur, Co-founder and Managing Partner of Cuban Guys Restaurants to chat about his journey in the restaurant industry, the concept behind Cuban Guys, challenges of entrepreneurship, adapting to market changes, and strategies for growth and customer acquisition in the fast-casual dining sector.

Randy Cohen is the Chief Energizing Officer at Z'Tejas, a Tex-Mex restaurant chain with locations in and around Austin, TX and Phoenix, AZ. He’s also the Chief Energizing Officer and Founder of TicketCity, a leading ticket brokerage company providing access to major sporting events worldwide. Throughout his career, he has made significant contributions to both industries, notably maintaining TicketCity’s reputation for reliability and Z’Tejas’ iconic status in the Tex-Mex cuisine scene for over three decades. In this episode… The restaurant industry is a challenging and dynamic field that requires constant adaptation and innovation. What does it take to successfully own and operate multiple restaurant locations while maintaining a positive and energetic atmosphere? According to Randy Cohen, whose mission is to infuse his Z'Tejas restaurant locations with positive energy, the key to success in the restaurant industry lies in creating memorable experiences for guests. He emphasizes the importance of delighting customers, focusing on culture, and maintaining a high level of energy and commitment. Randy stresses that while the food and service are crucial, what truly matters is how guests feel when they leave the restaurant. On this episode of the Top Business Leaders Show, Rise25's Chad Franzen chats with Randy Cohen, Chief Energizing Officer at Z'Tejas, about his journey from the ticket industry to restaurant ownership. Randy discusses the challenges of running restaurants, the impact of COVID-19, his books on business success, and the rewards of creating positive dining experiences. He also shares insights from his background in hospitality and his approach to leadership.

Ken Rice is the Chief Operating Officer at Pickleman's Franchising, a company specializing in upscale, fast-casual sandwich shops known for their fresh, high-quality food. Under his leadership, Pickleman's has achieved 14.57% same-store year-over-year growth and expanded to 28 locations, with plans to add 20 to 25 additional units in the coming years. Ken is a US Army veteran honored with two Army Commendation Medals and is passionate about building strong franchisee-franchisor relationships through effective communication and strategic growth. In this episode… The restaurant industry offers diverse opportunities for entrepreneurs, from fast-casual concepts to upscale dining experiences. What insights can a seasoned executive provide about the franchising landscape in this sector? According to Ken Rice, successful franchising requires a strong focus on communication and relationship-building between franchisors and franchisees. He emphasizes the importance of listening to franchisees' concerns, providing them with the necessary tools and training, and fostering a collaborative environment where both parties work together to improve the brand. Ken also highlights the value of having franchisees participate in decision-making processes, such as marketing strategies, to ensure their voices are heard and their experiences are leveraged. On this episode of the Top Business Leaders Show, Rise25's Chad Franzen welcomes Ken Rice, COO of Pickleman’s Franchising, to chat about his journey in the restaurant industry, the importance of franchisee-franchisor relationships, and the unique positioning of Pickleman's in the market. Ken shares insights on effective franchise management, the role of technology in operations, and what makes a successful franchisee in today's competitive landscape.

Britni DeLeon and Kasia Bednarz are the Co-founders of FARE, a healthy fast-casual restaurant chain local to Chicago specializing in nutritious, seasonal, and locally sourced meals. Under their leadership, FARE has expanded to multiple locations in Chicago, garnering significant media attention and a loyal customer base for their innovative approach to healthy eating. Britni and Kasia's journey began with their shared passion for simply prepared and wholesome food, which has translated into a thriving business that challenges traditional notions of fast food. They are committed to making healthy food accessible and flavorful while focusing on sustainability and community engagement. In this episode… The restaurant industry is a competitive field where success requires a combination of passion, innovation, and adaptability. How did two women turn their shared love of healthy food into a thriving restaurant business? According to Britni DeLeon and Kasia Bednarz, Co-founders of FARE, the key to their success lies in their commitment to simple, delicious food made with high-quality, seasonal ingredients. They also emphasize the importance of transparency, building trust with customers by openly sharing their values and sourcing practices. Their collaborative approach to menu creation, embracing adaptability when expanding to new locations, and actively staying informed about health trends have also been crucial to their growth. On this episode of the Top Business Leaders Show, Rise25’s Chad Franzen talks to Britni DeLeon and Kasia Bednarz about their journey as co-founders of FARE. Britni and Kasia discuss their shared passion for healthy eating, the challenges of opening their first location, the importance of team culture, and the value of transparency and sustainability. They also share insights into their collaborative menu creation process and their vision for future expansion.

Florian Pfahler is the Founder of Hannah's Bretzel, an innovative sandwich chain in Chicago known for its organic pretzel bread and commitment to sustainable practices. Originally from Stuttgart, Germany, Florian moved to the US in 1992 with a background in marketing and advertising. His passion for healthful, flavorful food and the absence of traditional German pretzels in Chicago led him to start his restaurant in 2005. Florian emphasizes the importance of ingredient purity, taste, and eco-conscious operations. He leads his business with a strong focus on team culture and the well-being of his staff, which he believes is key to their success. In this episode… The restaurant industry is constantly evolving, with new trends and challenges shaping the landscape for both established and emerging businesses. How can restaurant owners adapt to changing consumer preferences and market conditions while maintaining a successful and sustainable operation? According to Florian Pfahler, who launched Hannah's Bretzel in 2005, adapting to changing consumer preferences and market conditions requires a multifaceted approach. He emphasizes the importance of embracing technology by shifting from walk-in traffic to online ordering and delivery platforms to meet evolving customer habits. Prioritizing sustainability is another key factor, with Florian implementing eco-friendly practices such as using biodegradable packaging, composting, and powering operations with renewable energy. Lastly, Florian stresses the importance of building a strong team by cultivating a positive work culture with benefits like unlimited vacation to increase employee loyalty and productivity. On this episode of the Top Business Leaders Show, Rise25's Chad Franzen chats with Florian Pfahler, Founder of Hannah’s Bretzel, about his journey in founding Hannah's Bretzel, a Chicago-based restaurant chain. Florian shares insights on adapting to industry changes, maintaining sustainability practices, and creating a positive work culture. He discusses the impact of the pandemic on the restaurant industry, the importance of quality ingredients, and his plans for future expansion.

Eric Slaymaker is the Founder and CEO of Wingers Restaurant & Alehouse, a family-friendly sports alehouse known for its robust craft beer selection and tasty wings. He has a rich history in the restaurant industry, following in the entrepreneurial footsteps of his father, who was a franchisee of several nationally recognized brands. Eric, along with his brother Scott, has also been a franchise owner of various restaurant brands and played a pivotal role in franchising the Wingers brand. In addition to his extensive experience in restaurateuring, Eric was a founding partner of alternative radio stations in the 1990s and often performs with the Irish rock band, The Young Dubliners. In this episode… The restaurant industry faces dynamic challenges and evolving consumer preferences, requiring constant adaptation for success. What strategies can entrepreneurs adopt to sustain their business during uncertain times? According to restaurant industry veteran Eric Slaymaker, adaptability and operational efficiency are key to thriving in the restaurant business. Eric emphasizes the importance of building strong teams, focusing on customer experience, and maintaining a flexible approach to menu offerings. These strategies helped him navigate economic downturns and changing consumer preferences. On this episode of the Top Business Leaders Show, Rise25's Chad Franzen welcomes Eric Slaymaker, Founder and CEO of Wingers Restaurant & Alehouse to discuss his journey in the restaurant industry, lessons learned from his years of experience, and insights on how to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market. Eric shares why Wingers is a good franchise opportunity and describes the ideal franchisee. He also reveals which menu item has replaced wings as the brand’s most popular offering.

David Steele is the Co-founder and Executive Chairman of Flour + Water Hospitality Group, the Co-founder and Managing Partner of Great Gold Hospitality Group, and the Founder and CEO of One Wealth Advisors. The Four + Water Hospitality Group’s restaurants have become a cornerstone of San Francisco's culinary scene. FWHG brings a range of resources to its clients, from consulting to providing expertise in many aspects of development and operations to ensure clients reach their goals and vision. With a background in finance and entrepreneurship, David blends business acumen with creativity, leading multiple acclaimed restaurants, including Flour + Water, Flour + Water Pasta Shop, and Penny Roma. In this episode… The restaurant industry often struggles with the balance between artistic culinary vision and sound financial management. How can restaurateurs effectively manage this balance to ensure both creative and economic success? According to seasoned entrepreneur and restaurateur David Steele, the key to managing the balance between culinary artistry and financial stability lies in understanding its relationship to capital. David emphasizes the significance of effectively utilizing capital and the interdependence between outside investors and operators. He believes a healthy tension between business principles and artisanship is essential to ensure financial responsibility without sacrificing creativity. This approach has given his ventures a distinct advantage in the competitive restaurant industry. On this episode of the Top Business Leaders Show, Rise25's Chad Franzen welcomes David Steele, Co-founder and Executive Chairman of Flour + Water Hospitality Group, to discuss his journey from dishwasher to successful restaurateur. David shares insights on the importance of community, the evolution of his restaurant concepts, and the significance of treating team members with respect and dignity. He also touches on scaling restaurant operations while maintaining quality and customer satisfaction.

Austin Holmes is the CEO of Signal Raptor and President of Publicity for Good. A serial entrepreneur, he played a key role in scaling his wife Heather Holmes’ PR firm, growing their monthly revenue from $12,000 to $163,000. Previously serving as a Naval Special Operations EOD tech, he brings a disciplined, systems-focused approach to his current roles. Austin engages in various ventures, including digital media, e-commerce, and the food industry, and co-founded Press Demand, a SaaS platform for media pitching. He is also a dedicated father with a purpose-driven philosophy and a passion for accessible PR. In this episode… Entrepreneurship requires a unique blend of honesty, continuous improvement, and a desire to make the world better. But how can military experience translate into successful business leadership? According to Austin Holmes, CEO of Signal Raptor and President of Publicity for Good, the transition from military to entrepreneurship can be challenging, but it provides valuable skills in operational planning, organizational management, and leadership. Austin has transitioned into his current role after serving as a Naval Special Operations EOD tech. He highlights that those skills, combined with a mission-driven focus and the ability to build strong teams, can be crucial in scaling businesses and developing innovative solutions in various industries. On this episode of the Top Business Leaders Show, Rise25's Chad Franzen welcomes Austin Holmes, the CEO of Signal Raptor CEO, for a conversation about his journey from Naval Special Operations to successful entrepreneur. Austin shares insights on scaling his wife's PR firm, developing a SaaS platform for media pitching, and balancing family life with multiple business ventures. He also discusses the importance of purpose-driven businesses and making PR more accessible through technology.

Michael Karsch, CEO and Chairman of Juice Press, is an accomplished entrepreneur with 25 years of diverse business experience. He began his career by establishing a successful hedge fund, growing it from $150 million to $3 billion. Michael then transitioned to the food and beverage industry, acquiring Juice Press, which he expanded from four to 80 stores. His strategies involved scaling businesses, operational insights, and a focus on health-oriented retail. Michael continues to innovate within Juice Press and through catering logistics, constantly seeking new opportunities. He is dedicated to offering premium, healthy food options while exploring franchising avenues. In this episode… Transitioning from one industry to another can reveal unique insights into business management and growth. How does one leverage their previous experiences to successfully navigate a new sector? According to Juice Press Chairman and CEO Michael Karsch, transitioning from the hedge fund industry to the food and beverage sector necessitated a shift from a passive investment role to a hands-on operational role. This change allowed him to directly influence the company’s destiny, unlike stock picking, where control is limited. His involvement in Juice Press provided an opportunity to create a vertically integrated business, shaping the brand's entire supply chain and customer experience. On this episode of the Top Business Leaders Show, Rise25’s Chad Franzen welcomes Michael Karsch, CEO and Chairman of Juice Press, to discuss his secrets to success in the health food sector. From understanding the operational complexities and customer behaviors to innovative product development, Michael shares the intricate journey of expanding Juice Press. He sheds light on the balance between rapid expansion and maintaining high standards while emphasizing the importance of evolving with consumer trends.

Dr. Jeremy Weisz is the Co-founder of Rise25, a company whose mission is to help businesses connect to their ideal prospects, referral partners and strategic partners using a podcast. With over 15 years of experience in podcasting, he has been featuring top entrepreneurs with video interviews since 2010 and was a senior producer at one of the early top business podcasts, helping to put systems in place for backend operations. Jeremy strongly believes that podcasting is an essential tool for B2B businesses, as it fosters valuable connections and relationships that can lead to clients, referral partners, and even business partnerships. John Corcoran is the Co-founder of Rise25. He is a former Clinton White House Writer and Speechwriter to the Governor of California, with a diverse background spanning law, entrepreneurship, and writing. John has authored three books on relationship building and client acquisition. He has been hosting the Smart Business Revolution podcast since 2012, interviewing entrepreneurs and business leaders from various fields. John’s experience includes working in Hollywood and Silicon Valley, and running his own law firm catering to small businesses. In this episode… As the owner of a digital agency, have you ever questioned the real value of attending conferences geared toward your industry? With the hassle of travel, the costs involved, and the time away from day-to-day operations, is it really worth it? According to Rise25 Co-founders John Corcoran and Dr. Jeremy Weisz, business conferences offer immense value that often extends far beyond the scheduled sessions and keynote speakers. They believe the true worth of these events lies in the organic connections and spontaneous conversations that occur when like-minded professionals gather in one place. From casual chats at the hotel bar to impromptu networking during meal breaks, these unscripted interactions frequently spark game-changing insights, lead to valuable partnerships, and foster a sense of community that is difficult to replicate in a virtual setting. John and Jeremy emphasize that even a single meaningful conversation can justify the investment in attending a conference, as it may unveil a fresh perspective, introduce a groundbreaking solution, or forge a relationship that propels your business to new heights. In this episode of the Top Business Leaders Show, John Corcoran and Dr. Jeremy Weisz, the Co-founders of Rise25, join host Chad Franzen to dive into the benefits of attending digital conferences for agency owners. They reveal how interactions with other attendees – whether from a podcast, over dinner, or during a chance meetup – can foster trusting relationships that are vital for business success. In the vast landscape of conferences, from intimate gatherings to grand events, they outline the unique opportunities each provides.