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  • Jose Berlanga - Entrepreneur and Real Estate Developer

    Jose Berlanga - Entrepreneur and Real Estate Developer
    2024/11/19
    Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America podcast. In this episode, we sit down with Jose Berlanga, a serial entrepreneur, real estate investor, and founder who has built multimillion-dollar businesses across four different industries. From overcoming extraordinary personal challenges to achieving incredible professional milestones, Jose shares his journey of resilience, reinvention, and unwavering determination. Our conversation covers everything from the lessons he’s learned rebuilding after setbacks, to the importance of personal development in entrepreneurship, and the formula for creating success across diverse sectors. Jose also discusses his hands-on leadership style, the pros and cons of being deeply involved in every aspect of his businesses, and how he has turned his talents into thriving ventures without letting past tragedies define him. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business leader, or just looking for inspiration, this episode offers actionable insights and an authentic look into the highs and lows of building a legacy. Stay tuned as Jose shares his advice for navigating uncertain markets and building confidence after failure. Notable Awards and Recognitions • Co-founder of Tricon Homes in 1997, a pioneer in Houston’s inner-city revitalization, personally negotiating over $1 billion in land acquisition, development, and real estate transactions. • Achieved multimillionaire status four separate times across four distinct industries: import/export, hospitality, residential construction, and real estate development. • Founder and CEO of several construction companies focused on designing and developing residential projects • Survived a life-threatening childhood accident and overcame significant physical and emotional challenges. • Real estate investor, author, and speaker with over 35 years of entrepreneurial experience • Responsible for the development and construction of nearly 2,000 homes • Experience managing businesses in oil and gas, manufacturing, distribution, service industries, and restaurant businesses • Built and operated an import/export company dedicated to machinery for the petrochemical and oil and gas sectors • Authored the book The Business of Home Building How to connect with Jose Berlanga • https://www.linkedin.com/in/jose-berlanga-900a9518/ • https://joseberlanga.com/ • https://www.amazon.com/Business-Home-Building-Residential-Construction-ebook/dp/B0CZH47C7P Show Notes [1:50] Brief intro on how Jose got to where he is today. [3:41] How the life-altering accident at a young age, shaped his resilience and determination in his entrepreneurial pursuits. [9:24] Essential principles for building successful businesses. [19:56] How having a hands-on approach has influenced the growth and culture of his businesses. [26:25] How Jose rebuilt his confidence and motivation each time a major setback occurred. [31:04] Lessons you can learn from your failures and the importance of personal development in the journey of an entrepreneur. [35:39] How to connect with Jose, learn more about his business, and pick up his book, “The Business of Home Building”. [36:37] Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs who are just starting out and may be unsure of the journey ahead. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    39 分
  • Tom LaPlante - Managing Partner at RobotLab Las Vegas

    Tom LaPlante - Managing Partner at RobotLab Las Vegas
    2024/11/10
    Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America podcast. In this episode, we sit down with Tom LaPlante, the Las Vegas Branch Partner for RobotLAB, the world's largest and most experienced implementer of robotic solutions. Tom has over 30 years of experience in driving digital transformations and leveraging technology to scale businesses across diverse industries including travel, hospitality, gaming, and financial services. Before joining RobotLAB, Tom served as the Chief Technology Officer at TopGolf, where he played a pivotal role in scaling the company from $38 million to $400 million in revenue in just three years. He’s known for building expert teams, improving operational efficiencies, and using data-driven technologies like predictive analytics to drive growth and profitability. In this episode, we explore how robotics is transforming industries like hospitality, education, and entertainment, particularly in the Las Vegas market. Tom discusses the challenges of implementing robotics at scale, his goals for RobotLAB in Las Vegas, and how businesses can navigate the intersection of technology and operational growth. Tune in for valuable insights into the future of robotics and how technology can drive innovation and efficiency in your business. Notable Awards and Recognitions • Las Vegas Business Partner at RobotLAB, implementing robotic solutions across industries such as hospitality, education, entertainment, and others. • Previous Chief Technology Officer at TopGolf, where he helped scale the company from $38M to $400M in revenue in just three years. • Increased profit margins by 15% across all TopGolf locations by developing and implementing standard operating procedures. • Served as CIO at Caesar’s Entertainment and Holiday Inn, holding various technology leadership roles. • Built corporate and site technology teams to implement new technologies and standard processes, driving significant revenue growth. • Enabled a $1.2M revenue-per-site increase by reducing site build times by 3 weeks. • Introduced eCommerce capabilities, generating an additional $350,000 in revenue per new site. • Slashed conference call costs from $250,000 to $5,000 by switching to VoIP (98% reduction). How to connect with Tom LaPlante • https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomlaplante/ • https://www.robotlab.com/las-vegas • https://www.linkedin.com/company/robotlabinc/ • Email – tom.laplante@robotlab.com • Phone- (512)466-2472 Show Notes [1:56] Brief intro on how Tom got to where he is today. [12:48] How robotics are shaping the future of customer service and operational efficiency across many different industries. [16:43] Aligning robotics solutions with the specific needs of industries. [21:06] Key challenges of implementing robotics at scale. [24:18] Cost savings of implementing robotics into your business. [30:01] How to connect with Tom and learn more about RobotLabs [32:05] Advice for entrepreneurs and business leaders who are navigating the intersection of technology and operational growth, especially in industries that are resistant to change. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    34 分
  • Steven Gaffney - CEO of Steven Gaffney Company

    Steven Gaffney - CEO of Steven Gaffney Company
    2024/11/05
    Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America podcast. In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome Steven Gaffney, a renowned expert on honest communication, change management, and building high-performing teams. With nearly 30 years of experience, Steven has worked with major organizations like Amazon, Marriott, Allstate Insurance, and even the U.S. military, helping leaders break down barriers, build cohesive teams, and increase business profitability. He’s also the author of several impactful books, including his latest, Unconditional Power, which explores the transformative effect of transparent communication in leadership. Steven dives deep into the critical issues many organizations face today, from breaking down team silos to navigating the complexities of change, all with his unique approach to fostering honest communication. We discuss his powerful Consistently High Achieving Teams (CHAT)® approach, which provides practical strategies for teams to achieve sustainable success. Steven also shares insights from his latest book and explains why honesty is the most underutilized yet powerful tool in any leader’s toolkit. And here’s a special offer for our listeners: mention Business Leaders of America in an email to Steven, along with a takeaway from this episode that you applied in your personal or professional life, and he’ll send you a copy of his book Just Be Honest—a valuable guide to fostering trust and open communication. Join us as we explore how honest communication can elevate your team and transform your business outcomes. Notable Awards and Recognitions • Founder of the Steven Gaffney Company • Authored influential books, including Just Be Honest, Honesty Works!, Be A Change Champion, Honesty Sells (co-authored), and his latest, Unconditional Power. • Trusted advisor to Fortune 500 companies like Amazon, Marriott, Lockheed Martin, and the U.S. government, including the Department of Homeland Security and NASA. • Creator of innovative models such as Consistently High Achieving Teams (CHAT)®, Powerful Culture®, and the 2-hour and 18-minute Strategy™, aimed at simplifying high-performance communication and team success. • Expert frequently quoted in The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, CBS, NBC, and FOX on topics of organizational communication and change management. • Regular guest on "Let's Talk Live," where he discusses insights on building high-performing, honest teams and achieving sustainable growth. How to connect with Steven Gaffney • https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevengaffneycompany/ • https://stevengaffney.com/ • https://www.instagram.com/stevengaffneydc/ Show Notes [1:31] Brief intro on how Steven got to where he is today. [2:34] Honest Communication and Change Management [13:34] Changing culture for the better. [18:11] Steven’s Consistently High Achieving Team (CHAT)® approach. [20:28] Steven Gaffney Company [23:03] Specific lessons that Steven’s learned from industry giants, that small and midsize business owners can apply to their own teams. [25:54] How surviving cancer influenced the way he approaches building high-achieving teams and organizations. [32:22] “Unconditional Power” [40:10] How to engage with Steven Gaffney and pick up his books. ***Receive your free book, Just Be Honest, by sending Steven an email mentioning Business Leaders of America and a takeaway from the podcast and how you used it. [41:46] Advice for entrepreneurs and business leaders who are looking to implement more honest communication and change management strategies in their businesses but aren’t sure where to start. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    44 分
  • William "Bill" Paul - Founder of Pinnacle Business Consulting & Valuation Group

    William "Bill" Paul - Founder of Pinnacle Business Consulting & Valuation Group
    2024/10/29
    Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America podcast. In this episode, we dive into the world of financial consulting, strategic business planning, and valuations with William "Bill" Paul, President and Business Consultant at Pinnacle Business Consulting & Valuation Group. With over 30 years in the financial sector, Bill’s career spans commercial banking, financial advisory, and consulting, where he has honed a unique expertise in business valuations and operational consulting across a variety of industries. Starting in the banking industry as a branch manager and later working in commercial finance and wireless communications, Bill brings a deep understanding of financial planning, credit management, and operational efficiencies to his clients. Today, through Pinnacle, he helps companies tackle everything from capital budgeting and financial performance analysis to merger and acquisition planning. We'll explore the moment that led Bill to make the leap from banking to his own consulting practice, how his career shaped his leadership style, and what he’s learned about helping businesses prepare for successful scaling and exit strategies. Join us as we gain insights from a leader who has transformed his career into a platform for helping others maximize their businesses' potential and profitability. Notable Awards and Recognitions • Founder and President of Pinnacle Business Consulting & Valuation Group, providing specialized consulting and valuation services. • Over 30 years of experience in investment management, financial planning, commercial banking, and credit management • Completed hundreds of valuations for businesses in diverse industries for purposes such as ownership planning, estate tax planning, mergers and acquisitions, and litigation support. • Expert in financial and operational performance analysis, strategic business planning, and capital budgeting. How to connect with Bill Paul • https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-paul-70036789/ • wpaul@pinnaclebusinessconsulting.net Show Notes [1:50] Brief intro on how Bill got to where he is today. [3:08] Pivotal moment that lead to the start of Pinnacle Business Consulting & Valuation Group [6:21] How 30 years in financial services, consulting, and commercial banking have shaped Bill’s leadership style. [8:43] “Trust but Verify” Method [14:27] How Bill navigates the diverse range of challenges in his business. [21:00] The importance of delegating. [23:05] Scaling your business with a strategic mindset. [24:41] Plan, Scale, Exit [26:58] The Champion Health Plan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    32 分
  • Jesse Hernandez, Founder of Depth Builder LLC

    Jesse Hernandez, Founder of Depth Builder LLC
    2024/10/22
    Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America podcast. In this episode, I have an inspiring conversation with Jesus "Jesse" Hernandez, the Founder of Depth Builder LLC, who is on a mission to transform leadership in the construction industry. Jesse’s journey, which spans from working as an installer to becoming an owner’s representative, has given him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities that leaders face. Through his company, Depth Builder, Jesse helps leaders improve their communication skills, build trust with their teams, and drive better business results by fostering stronger, people-centered relationships. During our interview, Jesse discusses common leadership blind spots, particularly when it comes to communication, and how leaders can overcome these to ensure true "buy-in" from their teams. We explore his SQI methodology, which equips construction leaders with the tools to improve both business outcomes and team morale. Jesse also shares how his 8 years of sobriety have influenced his leadership style and his approach to mentoring others, emphasizing the power of vulnerability and personal growth. We also dive into his authored book, Becoming the Promise You Are Intended to Be, where Jesse encourages leaders to live up to their full potential. He offers actionable advice for not only construction leaders but all leaders feeling stuck in their careers and explains how embracing a people-first approach can lead to extraordinary business results. Jesse’s insights into leadership, communication, and personal development make this a must-listen for anyone looking to cultivate deeper connections with their teams and elevate their leadership game! Notable Awards and Recognitions • Founder of Depth Builder LLC, helping leaders improve communication skills and build trust. • Author of Becoming the Promise You Are Intended to Be, which helps readers live up to their full potential. • Extensive work with construction teams across small to mega projects, enhancing leadership and operational performance. • Co-host of The NoBS with Jen and Jess Podcast, focusing on the human side of work and vulnerability. • Co-authored the book Lean & Love 5S Love Letters, addressing the gap in connection among construction professionals. • Over 7 years of sobriety, which has shaped his leadership and mentoring approach. How to connect with Jesse Hernandez • https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessedepthbuilder/ • https://www.depthbuilder.com/ • https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C4WVPLLK?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_ZE1QG7QS034EDKARS6F4 • https://www.linkedin.com/company/no-bs-with-jen-jess/?viewAsMember=true Show Notes [1:38] Brief intro on how Jesse got to where he is today. [5:59] How seeing the business from many different perspectives has influenced Jesse’s leadership philosophy. [10:34] How leaders can foster meaningful connections with their teams, even in high pressure environments. [15:30] Jesse’s SQI methodology and how it helps leaders improve their leadership and communication skills. • Humanize • Optimize • Scale [24:36] How sobriety has played an important role in Jesse’s life personally and professional. [36:25] Jesse’s book, “Becoming the Promise You’re Intended to Be” and the advice he has for leaders who feel “stuck” or unsure on how to take the next step in their career. [46:23] How to connect with Jesse, learn more about Depth Builder, and pick up his book. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    48 分
  • Nicholas Loise - President and Chief Sales Officer at Sales Performance Team

    Nicholas Loise - President and Chief Sales Officer at Sales Performance Team
    2024/10/15
    Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America podcast. In this episode, we sit down with Nicholas Loise, a true powerhouse in the world of sales leadership and entrepreneurship. Nicholas has built a remarkable career as a salesperson, sales leader, entrepreneur, and marketing executive. He’s the founder of Sales Performance Team, a company that helps small- to midsize businesses improve their sales processes, leadership, and systems for growth. Throughout his career, Nicholas has developed a unique approach to solving sales challenges, leveraging his experience as a salesperson first to drive success for his clients. Whether it's increasing sales by over 200% in the real estate space or improving win rates for SaaS companies, Nicholas is a master at cracking the sales puzzle. He’s also an author, speaker, and host who’s shared the stage with industry giants like Dan Kennedy and Barbara Corcoran. Today, we’ll dive into Nicholas’s Five P’s Framework, how he integrates sales and marketing for his clients, and the key strategies that have helped him lead businesses to massive growth. If you’re looking to understand how to unlock sales potential and build a strong sales team, this episode is for you. Notable Awards and Recognitions • Founder and President of Sales Performance Team LLC, focused on improving sales leadership, processes, systems, and playbooks for small to midsize businesses. • Co-author of Moving the Sales Needle in Your Business and The Ultimate Guide to Managing Your Sales Team. • Successfully increased sales by 225% in real estate and 118% in online education year-over-year, while improving win rates for SaaS solutions from under 10% to 35%. • Co-creator of GKIC/Magnetic Marketing Sales Mastery and Sales Boot Camps. How to connect with Nicholas Loise • https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholasloise/ • https://www.linkedin.com/company/salesperformanceteam/people/ • https://salesperformanceteam.com/ • https://www.youtube.com/@nicholasloise • https://salespack.salesperformanceteam.com/ Show Notes [2:11] Brief intro on how Nicholas got to where he is today. [4:08] How Nicholas’s background as a salesperson influenced his approach to leading and managing sales teams. [8:45] Sales Performance Team - 4 Core Tenants and the Five P’s Framework [16:53] Importance of aligning your marketing and sales efforts. [18:30] Cracking the “Sales Puzzle” [22:16] How sharing stages with prominent figures like Dan Kennedy and Barbara Corcoran have influenced his views on sales, marketing, and leadership. [25:55] How to connect with Nicholas and learn more about his Business Sales Performance team. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    28 分
  • Patrick Hardy - Founder and President of Hytrophy Disaster Management

    Patrick Hardy - Founder and President of Hytrophy Disaster Management
    2024/10/14
    Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America podcast. In this episode, I had the privilege of sitting down with Patrick Hardy, the President of Hytropy Disaster Management and author of Design Any Disaster: The Revolutionary Blueprint to Master Your Next Crisis or Emergency. Patrick is known as the "Indiana Jones of disaster planning" and brings a refreshingly optimistic approach to an often grim topic. We dove into his C3 Method, which focuses on turning disruptions into opportunities for growth, and explored the unique challenges businesses of all sizes face when preparing for emergencies. Patrick shared fascinating insights into how small businesses can maintain control during crises, and gave practical steps for leaders to avoid turning disruptions into full-blown disasters. We also discussed his physically demanding world records, like his recent attempt to perform CPR for 30 hours straight, and how his passion for resilience and readiness connects to these extraordinary feats. This episode is packed with wisdom on how to embrace disruption and transform it into a growth opportunity, making it a must-listen for anyone looking to strengthen their business and leadership in the face of uncertainty. Notable Awards and Recognitions • Founder and President of Hytropy Disaster Management, a leader in creating detailed disaster plans for businesses and families. • Youngest person selected to represent US private industry to FEMA and DHS at the National Response Coordination Center. • Led disaster preparedness and response efforts for Fortune 500 companies, small businesses, and families around the world. • Authored Design Any Disaster: The Revolutionary Blueprint to Master Your Next Crisis or Emergency. • International keynote speaker, helping organizations turn disruptions into opportunities for growth. • Holder of Guinness World Records, most recently a world record for performing CPR for 28.5 hours. • Multi-certified in disaster preparedness, including FEMA’s Master of Exercise®, Certified Emergency Manager®, Certified Risk Manager®, and Master Business Continuity Professional®. • Wrote chapters on disaster preparedness, terrorism, and weapons of mass destruction for the US National Curriculum. How to connect with Patrick Hardy • https://www.linkedin.com/in/disasterpatrick/ • https://disasterpatrick.com/#:~:text=Meet%20the%20planet%E2%80%99s%20go-to%20disaster%20expert%20for%20global • https://www.youtube.com/@DisasterPatrick • Amazon.com: Design Any Disaster: The Revolutionary Blueprint to Master Your Next Crisis or Emergency: 9781637742730: Hardy, Patrick: Books Show Notes [1:44] Brief intro on how Patrick got to where he is today. [5:34] What drew Patrick to disaster planning and how it shaped is career. [8:33] 5 R’s of the Powerful C3 Method– Ready, React, Respond, Recover, & Reverse [21:13] Unique challenges that small businesses face when preparing for disasters. [30:15] How Patrick helps businesses and schools with disruptions. [35:33] Patrick’s book, “Design any Disaster: The Revolutionary Blueprint to Master Your Next Crisis or Emergency” [37:57] Planning for World Record attempts and how it connects with Patrick’s passion for disaster readiness and resilience. [47:27] How to connect with Patrick, learn more about Hytropy Disaster Management, and where to pick up his book, “Design Any Disaster”. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    50 分
  • Bradley Hamner - Founder of BlueprintOS

    Bradley Hamner - Founder of BlueprintOS
    2024/10/01
    Welcome to another episode of the Business Leaders of America podcast. In this episode, we're joined by Bradley Hamner, a business growth coach, serial entrepreneur, and the Founder of BlueprintOS. Bradley's mission is to help business owners and entrepreneurs transition from being the Rainmaker—where everything depends on them—to becoming the Architect of a business that runs smoothly without their constant involvement. Bradley's journey is both inspiring and relatable. After a stress-related health scare at the age of 34, he realized that his business was running him, not the other way around. This led to the creation of BlueprintOS, a comprehensive system that empowers entrepreneurs to design, build, and implement organizational structures that drive growth, scalability, and freedom. As the host of the Above the Business podcast, Bradley shares strategies every week to help entrepreneurs install the systems and processes needed to create a business that works for them. In today's conversation, we dive into his personal journey, the Rainmaker’s Dilemma, and how BlueprintOS provides a clear roadmap for business owners ready to scale without losing their freedom. We also explore his approach to designing winning playbooks, his advice for entrepreneurs who are stuck working 'in' the business, and much more. Notable Awards and Recognitions • Founder of BlueprintOS • Helps small business owners with $300K to $3M in annual revenue transition from being the Rainmaker, where everything depends on them, to becoming the Architect of a scalable, self-sustaining, and profitable business. • Host of the “Above the Business” Podcast. • Launched multiple successful businesses, helping entrepreneurs scale their operations while reducing dependence on their direct involvement. How to connect with Bradley Hamner •https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradleyhamner/ •https://www.blueprintos.com/#:~:text=BlueprintOS%20is%20how%20you%20get%20there.%20BOOK%20A •https://www.abovethebusiness.co/podcast#:~:text=Above%20The%20Business%20will%20empower%20you%20to%20rise Show Notes [1:25] Brief intro on how Bradley got to where he is today. [3:25] The pivotal moment that made Bradley make a change from the corporate world to entrepreneurship. [10:55] “Rainmaker’s Dilemma” [13:23] S.C.A.L.E. Sustainable Revenue Consistent Profitability and Growth Away: Time Away Leverage with an Executive Assistant Efficient Operations [22:14] How BlueprintOS helps people work “on the business” instead of “in the business.” [24:38] Bradley’s approach to designing systems and processes, and how business owners can build playbooks that streamline operations. [36:21] “Above the Business Podcast” [41:38] How to connect with Bradley, learn more about BlueprintOS as well as his podcast, “Above the Business” [43:30] Advice for entrepreneurs who feel stuck in the Rainmaker role, unable to step back and scale their businesses, while still maintaining the freedom they originally sought as business owners. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    45 分