Success Stories with Steve Cross

Stephanie Sage doesn’t sugarcoat entrepreneurship. After the 2008 crash wiped out her mortgage career, she started a restoration business with zero experience, no paycheck for years, and nothing but hustle to survive. This episode breaks down what it actually takes to build something from nothing: early mistakes, brutal learning curves, and the moments that finally moved the business forward. From knocking doors to scaling into reconstruction and commercial work, this is the reality behind growth. About Our GuestStephanie Sage is the CEO of Sage Restoration, a Kansas City-based company specializing in water, fire, mold, and reconstruction services. She entered the industry with zero experience, built the business through relentless sales and networking, and turned it into a multi-division operation that now includes large-scale reconstruction and commercial work. Along the way, she navigated industry skepticism, scaled through multiple growth stages, and eventually brought her son into the business, where he now leads expansion efforts.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the podcast where Steve Cross sits down with the sharpest minds in business to unpack what it really takes to grow.From scrappy upstarts to category leaders, each conversation reveals the mindset, strategies, and personal stories behind bold decisions and breakthrough moments. No fluff. No gurus. Just real founders, real operators, and real results.If you're a growth-obsessed entrepreneur, marketing leader, or future founder, this playlist is your shortcut to hard-earned wisdom from those who've built it, scaled it, and lived to tell the tale.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.👉If you think you can hang, this link is for you. https://stevecross.wtf 👉 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.#entrepreneurship #smallbusiness #businessgrowth #founderstory #startupjourney #womeninbusiness #ceomindset #businessowner #leadership #scaling #growthmindset #hustle #sales #networking #restoration #construction #realbusiness #successstories

Most people don’t think twice about doing laundry. Turns out, it’s one of the biggest sources of microplastic pollution on the planet.In this episode, Steve Cross sits down with Max Pennington, co-founder and CEO of CLEANR, to break down how a random discovery turned into a real company solving a real problem. They get into what it actually looks like to build a physical product from scratch: prototypes, patents, manufacturing headaches, investor dynamics, and the kind of failures you don’t see on LinkedIn. This is a conversation about figuring it out as you go, and why “good enough” usually isn’t.About Our GuestMax Pennington is the co-founder and CEO of CLEANR, a company focused on removing microplastics from everyday water systems. With a background in chemical engineering from Case Western, he helped develop a patented vortex filtration system that captures over 90% of microplastics from laundry.CLEANR has already launched its first product and is pushing toward a bigger goal: getting this tech built directly into washing machines and expanding into whole-home water filtration. Max is in the middle of building it, figuring out product, market, and scale in real time.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the podcast where Steve Cross sits down with the sharpest minds in business to unpack what it really takes to grow.From scrappy upstarts to category leaders, each conversation reveals the mindset, strategies, and personal stories behind bold decisions and breakthrough moments. No fluff. No gurus. Just real founders, real operators, and real results.If you're a growth-obsessed entrepreneur, marketing leader, or future founder, this playlist is your shortcut to hard-earned wisdom from those who've built it, scaled it, and lived to tell the tale.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.👉If you think you can hang, this link is for you. https://stevecross.wtf 👉 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.#SuccessStories #Startup #BuildInPublic #FounderJourney #HardTech #ProductDevelopment #Entrepreneurship #StartupLessons #CleanTech #Microplastics #WaterInnovation #Sustainability #FutureOfTech #Manufacturing #Startups #BusinessGrowth #Innovation #RealConversations #NoBS

This episode flips the typical “success story” on its head. Sean Hackett didn’t follow a clean, linear path. He went from competitive academics to acting, got knocked off course, learned business the hard way in the Chicago Board of Trade, and eventually found his way into the plumbing and construction world. What you get here isn’t theory; it’s decades of real-world experience around pressure, money, leadership, and what actually builds trust in business. The conversation centers on responsiveness, accountability, and why most people lose opportunities simply by not doing the basics consistently. It’s a grounded, no-BS look at how success is really built over time.About Our GuestSean Hackett is the job coordinator at R. Carrozza Plumbing in the Chicago market, where he manages bids, proposals, and project coordination across a wide range of construction work. Before that, he spent years at the Chicago Board of Trade, working his way up from runner to broker and eventually leading a team through some of the most high-pressure financial environments imaginable, including trading during 9/11. That experience shaped how he approaches business today: know your customers, respond fast, stay accountable, and don’t cut corners with other people’s money. His background blends blue-collar industry knowledge, financial market discipline, and a strong belief that relationships (and reputation) are everything.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the podcast where Steve Cross sits down with the sharpest minds in business to unpack what it really takes to grow.From scrappy upstarts to category leaders, each conversation reveals the mindset, strategies, and personal stories behind bold decisions and breakthrough moments. No fluff. No gurus. Just real founders, real operators, and real results.If you're a growth-obsessed entrepreneur, marketing leader, or future founder, this playlist is your shortcut to hard-earned wisdom from those who've built it, scaled it, and lived to tell the tale.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.👉If you think you can hang, this link is for you. https://stevecross.wtf 👉 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.#Entrepreneurship #StartupStory #BusinessGrowth #FounderLife #WomenInBusiness #SuccessStories  #Leadership #BuildInPublic #Hustle #Mindset #StartupJourney #BusinessPodcast #ScaleUp #NoExcuses

This episode with Tom Berka, owner of Badlands Distribution, is a real look at what it actually takes to build something from nothing; no polished startup story, just hard work, risk, and figuring it out as you go. Tom walks through his journey from running delivery routes in the middle of the night to scaling a multi-state distribution business with hundreds of accounts. The conversation dives into the realities of growth: why most obstacles are worse in your head, how saying yes too often can hurt you, and the hard shift from employee to owner. It’s a blunt, practical breakdown of risk, execution, and what it really means to build a business that survives.About Our GuestTom Berka is the owner of Badlands Distribution, a logistics and distribution company operating across Colorado, Wyoming, Nebraska, the Dakotas, and beyond. He built the business from the ground up after years in delivery and commercial distribution, turning a small opportunity with just a few dozen accounts into a company with hundreds of delivery points and a growing team. Tom specializes in scaling distribution in underserved markets (which most companies avoid) and has built his business on execution, reliability, and long-term partnerships with major brands like Nestlé and Unilever.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the podcast where Steve Cross sits down with the sharpest minds in business to unpack what it really takes to grow.From scrappy upstarts to category leaders, each conversation reveals the mindset, strategies, and personal stories behind bold decisions and breakthrough moments. No fluff. No gurus. Just real founders, real operators, and real results.If you're a growth-obsessed entrepreneur, marketing leader, or future founder, this playlist is your shortcut to hard-earned wisdom from those who've built it, scaled it, and lived to tell the tale.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.👉If you think you can hang, this link is for you. https://stevecross.wtf 👉 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.#entrepreneurship #businessgrowth #smallbusiness #logistics #distribution #leadership #founderstory #startupjourney #riskandreward #businessowner #growthmindset #successstories #scalingbusiness #operations #realbusiness

This episode cuts through the polished success narrative and gets real about what it actually takes to build something from nothing. Marisa Sergi, CEO of L’uva Bella Winery, walks through the uncomfortable parts most people avoid: rejection, burnout, identity hits, and making hard business decisions when your emotions are tied to the brand. From launching a wine company as a college project to scaling multiple businesses across wine, RTDs, and craft beer, this conversation is about resilience, adapting to a shifting market, and having the guts to keep going when the data (and the world) doesn’t make it easy.About Our GuestMarisa Sergi is the CEO of L’uva Bella Winery and a multi-brand operator in the beverage industry. She started her entrepreneurial journey with Redhead Wine as a college capstone project, eventually turning it into a real business through relentless cold outreach and persistence. Since then, she has helped scale L’uva Bella into a national beverage company, expanded into RTD products like Hartzler boozy cocktails, and played a key role in repositioning brands like The Brew Kettle. Known for her hands-on approach and ability to spot opportunity in shifting markets, Marisa blends grit, adaptability, and real-world execution to build and grow companies in highly competitive industries.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the podcast where Steve Cross sits down with the sharpest minds in business to unpack what it really takes to grow.From scrappy upstarts to category leaders, each conversation reveals the mindset, strategies, and personal stories behind bold decisions and breakthrough moments. No fluff. No gurus. Just real founders, real operators, and real results.If you're a growth-obsessed entrepreneur, marketing leader, or future founder, this playlist is your shortcut to hard-earned wisdom from those who've built it, scaled it, and lived to tell the tale.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.👉If you think you can hang, this link is for you. https://stevecross.wtf 👉 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.#Entrepreneurship #StartupStory #BusinessGrowth #FounderLife #WomenInBusiness #SuccessStories  #Leadership #BuildInPublic #Hustle #Mindset #StartupJourney #BusinessPodcast #ScaleUp #NoExcuses

In this episode of Success Stories, Steve Cross sits down with Tim Petrey, CEO of HD Growth Partners. Tim breaks down the moments that actually changed his trajectory, from getting called out by a high school guidance counselor to finding a mentor who pushed him to think bigger than the limits he had set for himself. They talk about building a company the hard way, why mentorship matters, how one client interaction changed the direction of the firm, and why HD Growth Partners moved beyond transactional tax work into deeper advisory relationships. The conversation also gets into leadership, culture, growth, and why businesses that refuse to evolve (especially with technology and AI) won’t survive the next decade.About Our GuestTim Petrey is the CEO of HD Growth Partners and the kind of operator who built his career the hard way: through pressure, responsibility, relationships, and learning from people who were willing to tell him the truth. In this episode, he shares how early loss, lack of a safety net, and the right mentors shaped the way he leads today. Tim’s perspective on leadership, accountability, culture, AI, and the future of accounting is sharp, practical, and earned the old-fashioned way: by getting punched in the face by business and getting back up anyway.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the podcast where Steve Cross sits down with the sharpest minds in business to unpack what it really takes to grow.From scrappy upstarts to category leaders, each conversation reveals the mindset, strategies, and personal stories behind bold decisions and breakthrough moments. No fluff. No gurus. Just real founders, real operators, and real results.If you're a growth-obsessed entrepreneur, marketing leader, or future founder, this playlist is your shortcut to hard-earned wisdom from those who've built it, scaled it, and lived to tell the tale.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.👉If you think you can hang, this link is for you. https://stevecross.wtf 👉 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.#SuccessStories #TimPetrey #HDGrowthPartners #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #Leadership #Mentorship #BusinessPodcast #EntrepreneurMindset #StartupLessons #FounderJourney #BusinessAdvice #EntrepreneurLife #BuildInPublic #BusinessLeadership #AIinBusiness #ScalingBusiness

In this episode of Success Stories, Steve Cross sits down with Josh and Christina Mikels, the husband-and-wife team behind Mr. Electric of Winter Garden. They walk through how Josh went from engineering and corporate leadership to betting on a franchise, why they chose a proven playbook instead of building from scratch, and what it actually took to grow the business while raising five kids. It’s a straightforward conversation about risk, long nights, slow growth, and the reality that building a business will test your family just as much as your work ethic.About Our GuestJosh and Christina Mikels are the co-owners of Mr. Electric of Winter Garden. Josh brought an engineering mindset, operational discipline, and a strong drive to build something of his own. Christina helped shape that path by prioritizing family, flexibility, and long-term stability. Together, they built the company from a small startup into a multimillion-dollar electrical service business focused on strong customer service, steady growth, and a clear plan for the future.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the podcast where Steve Cross sits down with the sharpest minds in business to unpack what it really takes to grow.From scrappy upstarts to category leaders, each conversation reveals the mindset, strategies, and personal stories behind bold decisions and breakthrough moments. No fluff. No gurus. Just real founders, real operators, and real results.If you're a growth-obsessed entrepreneur, marketing leader, or future founder, this playlist is your shortcut to hard-earned wisdom from those who've built it, scaled it, and lived to tell the tale.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.👉If you think you can hang, this link is for you. https://stevecross.wtf 👉 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.#SuccessStories #MrElectric #WinterGarden #Entrepreneurship #FamilyBusiness #SmallBusinessGrowth #FranchiseBusiness #HomeServices #BusinessOwnership #Leadership #FounderStory #MarriageAndBusiness #WorkLifeBalance #BusinessPodcast

The housing industry is broken: slow, expensive, and wildly inefficient. In this episode of Success Stories, Steve Cross sits down with Vikas Enti, CEO and co-founder of Reframe Systems, to talk about why that’s the case and what it takes to actually fix it. Vikas explains how his team is using robotics, software, and micro-factories to rethink how homes get built, why construction hasn’t improved productivity in decades, and what happens when you try to challenge an entire industry. It’s a blunt conversation about startups, scaling hardware, and the reality of building something hard.About Our GuestVikas Enti is the CEO and co-founder of Reframe Systems. With a background in mechanical engineering and robotics, including more than a decade scaling systems at Amazon Robotics, he launched Reframe to rethink how homes are built. His focus is on using advanced manufacturing to deliver high-quality homes faster, more predictably, and at a lower cost.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the podcast where Steve Cross sits down with the sharpest minds in business to unpack what it really takes to grow.From scrappy upstarts to category leaders, each conversation reveals the mindset, strategies, and personal stories behind bold decisions and breakthrough moments. No fluff. No gurus. Just real founders, real operators, and real results.If you're a growth-obsessed entrepreneur, marketing leader, or future founder, this playlist is your shortcut to hard-earned wisdom from those who've built it, scaled it, and lived to tell the tale.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.👉If you think you can hang, this link is for you. https://stevecross.wtf 👉 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.#SuccessStories #Podcast #FounderJourney #Entrepreneurship #StartupFounders #HousingCrisis #ConstructionInnovation #PropTech #Robotics #StartupJourney #BusinessLeadership #BuildingTheFuture

In this episode of Success Stories, Steve Cross talks with Ryan Schreiber, Founder and CEO of Streamline, about leaving a stable career to build a solution to streaming fragmentation, starting with sports fans. Ryan shares how personal frustration turned into a product, why early versions were too broad, and how focusing on the right user improved retention and traction. They discuss the shift from B2B to B2C, the realities of startup timelines, handling rejection, and the importance of focus, data, and community in building something that lasts.About Our GuestRyan Schreiber is the Founder and CEO of Streamline, a sports-first app that helps users see what’s on, where to watch it, and how to manage streaming subscriptions more efficiently. After beginning his career in investment banking and spending nearly a decade at tech company Vertical Knowledge, Ryan left in 2024 to launch Streamline. The company is growing in Northern Ohio, refining monetization, and preparing to scale through partnerships and paid features.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the podcast where Steve Cross sits down with the sharpest minds in business to unpack what it really takes to grow.From scrappy upstarts to category leaders, each conversation reveals the mindset, strategies, and personal stories behind bold decisions and breakthrough moments. No fluff. No gurus. Just real founders, real operators, and real results.If you're a growth-obsessed entrepreneur, marketing leader, or future founder, this playlist is your shortcut to hard-earned wisdom from those who've built it, scaled it, and lived to tell the tale.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.👉If you think you can hang, this link is for you. https://stevecross.wtf 👉 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.#SuccessStories #Podcast #StartupLife #FounderJourney #EntrepreneurMindset #BuildInPublic #SportsTech #StreamingWars #ProductMarketFit #OhioStartups #BetOnYourself #GrowthMode

In this episode of Success Stories, Steve Cross sits down with Mike Brown, owner of McGregor Manufacturing, for a real-world conversation about what it actually takes to build and sustain a manufacturing business. From learning CNC machining in high school in the 80s to buying his first Haas machine on a leap of faith, Mike shares how hands-on skill, calculated risk, and a lot of hard lessons shaped his journey. They dive into everything from betting on new equipment, chasing the dream of owning your own product, managing employees with wildly different personalities, and the brutal reality of debt cycles in manufacturing. This is not a polished “overnight success” story; it’s a candid look at luck, timing, mistakes, and persistence in the trenches.About Our GuestMike Brown is the owner of McGregor Manufacturing, a full-service machine shop specializing in Swiss machining, CNC milling and turning, fabrication, custom tooling, and precision production work. With decades of experience across manual machining, advanced CNC systems, cutter grinding, welding, and fabrication, Mike has built a reputation for solving complex manufacturing challenges and optimizing production for quality and efficiency. His journey spans building carburetors on manual machines, investing in advanced equipment like five-axis machines and wire EDM, and continually adapting to industry shifts, all while learning the hard way about leadership, hiring, debt, and the realities of entrepreneurship.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the podcast where Steve Cross sits down with the sharpest minds in business to unpack what it really takes to grow.From scrappy upstarts to category leaders, each conversation reveals the mindset, strategies, and personal stories behind bold decisions and breakthrough moments. No fluff. No gurus. Just real founders, real operators, and real results.If you're a growth-obsessed entrepreneur, marketing leader, or future founder, this playlist is your shortcut to hard-earned wisdom from those who've built it, scaled it, and lived to tell the tale.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.👉If you think you can hang, this link is for you. https://stevecross.wtf 👉 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.#SuccessStories #Podcast #ManufacturingLife #MachineShop #CNCmachining #SwissMachining #EntrepreneurTruth #BuiltNotBorn #ShopOwner #IndustrialBusiness #FounderLessons #HardLessons #BusinessReality #GoodFastCheap #OperatorMindset

In this episode of Success Stories, Steve Cross sits down with Jeffrey Poulin, President of SMB Packaging, to explore how a reluctant move from California to rural Mississippi and a childhood built on hard work laid the foundation for a 600,000+ square foot, three-location company serving Fortune 500 brands. Jeffrey shares how buying a garage-based side business from his father at 20 became the starting point for SMB Packaging, along with the hard-earned lessons in leadership, scalable growth, firing the wrong customers, building measurable KPIs, and redefining quality of life along the way.About Our GuestJeffrey Poulin is the President of SMB Packaging, a contract packaging and 3PL partner based in Memphis, Tennessee. Since purchasing the business in 1997 at just 20 years old, he has grown it from a garage operation into a multi-location enterprise serving major national brands. Jeffrey is passionate about strategic and scalable growth, leadership development, and building businesses that balance performance with quality of life.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the podcast where Steve Cross sits down with the sharpest minds in business to unpack what it really takes to grow.From scrappy upstarts to category leaders, each conversation reveals the mindset, strategies, and personal stories behind bold decisions and breakthrough moments. No fluff. No gurus. Just real founders, real operators, and real results.If you're a growth-obsessed entrepreneur, marketing leader, or future founder, this playlist is your shortcut to hard-earned wisdom from those who've built it, scaled it, and lived to tell the tale.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.👉If you think you can hang, this link is for you. https://stevecross.wtf 👉 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.#SuccessStories #Podcast #Entrepreneurship #BusinessOwner #FounderJourney #SmallBusiness #BusinessGrowth #ScalingBusiness #Leadership #Operations #Manufacturing #Packaging #ContractPackaging #CoPacking #3PL #SupplyChain #Logistics #Warehousing #Fortune500 #MemphisBusiness #WorkEthic #Mindset #KPI #StrategicGrowth #QualityOfLife #StartupLessons #FamilyBusiness #Grit #BusinessAdvice #LinkedInCreators

In this episode of Success Stories, Steve Cross sits down with James Wesolaski, owner of Get Lit Electrical Services, to talk about what it really takes to bet on yourself under pressure. From juggling a full-time job and late-night side work during a divorce to launching his own company with zero capital, James shares the hard lessons behind eight years of growth: bootstrapping, cash flow mistakes, branding wins, hiring missteps, and the mindset shift from tradesman to CEO.About Our GuestJames Wesolaski is the founder and owner of Get Lit Electrical Services, based in Glendale, Arizona. With 33 years of experience in the electrical trade and eight years running his own company, James has built a recognizable brand in a highly competitive industry. What started as side jobs after long workdays eventually became a full-fledged business fueled by grit, faith, and a relentless work ethic.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the podcast where Steve Cross sits down with the sharpest minds in business to unpack what it really takes to grow.From scrappy upstarts to category leaders, each conversation reveals the mindset, strategies, and personal stories behind bold decisions and breakthrough moments. No fluff. No gurus. Just real founders, real operators, and real results.If you're a growth-obsessed entrepreneur, marketing leader, or future founder, this playlist is your shortcut to hard-earned wisdom from those who've built it, scaled it, and lived to tell the tale.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.👉If you think you can hang, this link is for you. https://stevecross.wtf 👉 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.#SuccessStories #EntrepreneurMindset #BetOnYourself #SmallBusinessOwner #TradesLife #ElectricianLife #Bootstrapped #ServiceBusiness #FounderJourney #BusinessGrowth #LeadershipLessons #BuildYourBrand #CashFlow #FromEmployeeToCEO #LegacyBuilding

In this episode of Success Stories, Steve Cross sits down with Bernard Huang, founder of Clearscope (clearscope.io), to dig into what “success” really looks like when you’re in the grind. Bernard traces the turning points that shaped his path, from growing up under heavy expectations in an immigrant household, to ditching the track he hated, to learning risk and independence through online poker in college. From there, he walks through the messy middle (a failed franchise, startup swings, running out of money, getting humbled, then leveling up inside the YC/San Francisco ecosystem), before the conversation turns into a no-fluff breakdown of SEO’s past and AI’s takeover: why traffic and content are getting commoditized, how “AI mode” changes everything, and what it means to optimize for agents instead of humans.About Our GuestBernard Huang is the founder of Clearscope, a content and SEO platform built to help teams create search-driven content that performs. Before Clearscope, Bernard worked across startups, growth experiments, and consulting, helping scale SEO for well-known brands while developing a reputation as someone who tests, breaks, learns, and then builds. Today, his focus is on where SEO and AI collide, and what brands need to do to stay visible as search becomes less about “ten blue links” and more about machine-generated answers.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the podcast where Steve Cross sits down with the sharpest minds in business to unpack what it really takes to grow.From scrappy upstarts to category leaders, each conversation reveals the mindset, strategies, and personal stories behind bold decisions and breakthrough moments. No fluff. No gurus. Just real founders, real operators, and real results.If you're a growth-obsessed entrepreneur, marketing leader, or future founder, this playlist is your shortcut to hard-earned wisdom from those who've built it, scaled it, and lived to tell the tale.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.👉If you think you can hang, this link is for you. https://stevecross.wtf 👉 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.#SuccessStories #Entrepreneurship #StartupLife #SEO #AI #SearchMarketing #FutureOfSearch #ContentMarketing #TechFounders #BuildInPublic #DigitalStrategy #AdaptOrDie

Most people don’t plan to end up running a successful company; they back into it out of necessity, frustration, or sheer survival. That’s exactly how Carlos Sanchez’s story starts.In this episode of Success Stories, we talk about being a reluctant entrepreneur, why most contractors fail, how boring business fundamentals actually create freedom, and why doing things the right way still matters.About Our GuestCarlos Sanchez is the President and Founder of Continental Roof Company, based in the Cincinnati area, where he’s spent over 15 years building a multi-million-dollar roofing business grounded in ethics, relationships, and long-term thinking.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the podcast where Steve Cross sits down with the sharpest minds in business to unpack what it really takes to grow.From scrappy upstarts to category leaders, each conversation reveals the mindset, strategies, and personal stories behind bold decisions and breakthrough moments. No fluff. No gurus. Just real founders, real operators, and real results.If you're a growth-obsessed entrepreneur, marketing leader, or future founder, this playlist is your shortcut to hard-earned wisdom from those who've built it, scaled it, and lived to tell the tale.If you think you can hang, this link is for you. https://stevecross.wtf   For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.

Food trailer manufacturing is broken, and Justin Campbell decided to rebuild it from the ground up. In this episode of Success Stories, the owner of Firefly explains how process, systems, and smart leadership turn chaos into scale (and why most builders are doing it wrong).About Our GuestJustin Campbell is the owner of Firefly Fabrication (Firefly), a California-based builder of food trucks and purpose-built food trailers. Justin’s background spans hands-on trades, entrepreneurship, and culinary school, giving him a unique edge in designing mobile kitchens that prioritize efficiency, sanitation, reliability, and repairability.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the podcast where Steve Cross sits down with the sharpest minds in business to unpack what it really takes to grow.From scrappy upstarts to category leaders, each conversation reveals the mindset, strategies, and personal stories behind bold decisions and breakthrough moments. No fluff. No gurus. Just real founders, real operators, and real results.If you're a growth-obsessed entrepreneur, marketing leader, or future founder, this playlist is your shortcut to hard-earned wisdom from those who've built it, scaled it, and lived to tell the tale.If you think you can hang, this link is for you. https://stevecross.wtf   For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.

In this episode of Success Stories, host Steve Cross sits down with Jay Fortuna, Senior Vice President of Talent and Operations at GoHealth, for an inspiring deep dive into resilience, leadership, and lifelong learning. Jay shares how his journey, from being told he’d “never make it” in learning and development to leading major talent and operations teams, was fueled by grit, curiosity, and a drive to prove what’s possible.About Our GuestJay Fortuna is the Senior Vice President of Talent and Operations at GoHealth, a leading health insurance marketplace connecting individuals with the right Medicare and insurance options. With over 15 years of experience in talent development, leadership, and organizational growth, Jay is known for his innovative approach to learning and performance management.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the official podcast from the growth-obsessed team at iSynergy. Each episode dives deep into candid conversations with CEOs, founders, and business leaders who are building, scaling, and thriving across a variety of industries.Through real-world insights, hard-won lessons, and inspiring strategies, we uncover what’s driving today’s top performers and how they’re shaping the future of their businesses. From scrappy startups to established enterprises, these stories go beyond surface-level wins to explore the mindset, habits, and decisions behind real success.Hosted by iSynergy CEO Steve Cross, this podcast was built for growth-minded professionals who crave authenticity, actionable takeaways, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to succeed.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.💡 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.

In this episode of Success Stories, host Steve Cross welcomes Keith Simmons, president and founder of Traveler of Charleston magazine and TourPass.com. From Youngstown State grad to Charleston entrepreneur, Keith shares his journey of building businesses in the tourism space.We dive into his transition from corporate sales to launching a visitor magazine in a competitive market, the growth of TourPass across multiple cities, the challenges of COVID, and how face-to-face relationships fuel his success. Keith also discusses the upcoming TourPass app launch, the role of AI in personalizing travel, and his advice for entrepreneurs on finding opportunity, embracing competition, and staying adaptable.About Our GuestKeith Simmons is the founder of Traveler of Charleston magazine and TourPass.com, a friction-reducing city pass that connects directly to tour operators’ booking calendars so travelers can plan faster and save (often up to ~40% with curated itineraries). After starting his career in advertising sales with Hearst, Keith launched his magazine in 2005 and expanded into travel tech in 2018 with TourPass—now operating in Charleston, Savannah, and St. Augustine, with eyes on larger markets like Nashville and New Orleans. He’s a believer in face-to-face relationships, steady iteration (not hype), and building better experiences in proven markets.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the official podcast from the growth-obsessed team at iSynergy. Each episode dives deep into candid conversations with CEOs, founders, and business leaders who are building, scaling, and thriving across a variety of industries.Through real-world insights, hard-won lessons, and inspiring strategies, we uncover what’s driving today’s top performers and how they’re shaping the future of their businesses. From scrappy startups to established enterprises, these stories go beyond surface-level wins to explore the mindset, habits, and decisions behind real success.Hosted by iSynergy CEO Steve Cross, this podcast was built for growth-minded professionals who crave authenticity, actionable takeaways, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to succeed.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.💡 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.

In this episode of Success Stories, host Steve Cross sits down with Jason Pirock, VP of Global Brand Marketing at OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels. Jason shares how early clarity and intentionality shaped his 20-year marketing journey, from internships and corporate roles at Target and Hyatt to brand-building at boutique hotel groups and now leading a global, beach-forward brand. He breaks down the craft of becoming a well-rounded marketer, knowing when you’ve plateaued, and moving toward roles that challenge you to build, rebuild, and transform.About Our GuestJason Pirock is the Vice President of Global Brand Marketing at OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels. A career-long marketer, Jason is known for building and transforming, from revitalizing store experiences at Target to standing up integrated marketing functions at hospitality brands. At OUTRIGGER, he oversees global brand, partnerships, content, social, loyalty, and creative, helping elevate a 78-year-old Hawai‘i-born company into a truly global brand rooted in culture, ocean stewardship, and relaxed, “barefoot luxury” experiences.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the official podcast from the growth-obsessed team at iSynergy. Each episode dives deep into candid conversations with CEOs, founders, and business leaders who are building, scaling, and thriving across a variety of industries.Through real-world insights, hard-won lessons, and inspiring strategies, we uncover what’s driving today’s top performers and how they’re shaping the future of their businesses. From scrappy startups to established enterprises, these stories go beyond surface-level wins to explore the mindset, habits, and decisions behind real success.Hosted by iSynergy CEO Steve Cross, this podcast was built for growth-minded professionals who crave authenticity, actionable takeaways, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to succeed.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.💡 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.

From climbing out of small-town adversity to leading companies in one of the toughest industries in the country, this entrepreneurship journey is anything but ordinary. In this episode of Success Stories, Brian Ford, Co-Founder and CEO of FordCom Wireless and FordCom Electric, pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to build, lose, rebuild, and lead with purpose.The conversation dives into the realities of entrepreneurship: early profitability, rapid growth, painful layoffs, and lessons learned from relying too heavily on one customer. Brian also discusses leadership through humility, accountability, and leading by example, along with the importance of purpose beyond profit. From workforce challenges in the trades to preparing for future industry shifts, this episode delivers unfiltered insight into building businesses that last.About Our GuestBrian Ford is the Co-Founder and CEO of FordCom Wireless and FordCom Electric, two Northeast Ohio–based companies specializing in wireless infrastructure, tower construction, and electrical services.With a background in software, finance, sales, and data, Brian brings a strategic business mindset to industries traditionally driven by operations. His twin brother and co-founder, Brent Ford, leads the operational side, creating a powerful balance between vision and execution.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the official podcast from the growth-obsessed team at iSynergy. Each episode dives deep into candid conversations with CEOs, founders, and business leaders who are building, scaling, and thriving across a variety of industries.Through real-world insights, hard-won lessons, and inspiring strategies, we uncover what’s driving today’s top performers and how they’re shaping the future of their businesses. From scrappy startups to established enterprises, these stories go beyond surface-level wins to explore the mindset, habits, and decisions behind real success.Hosted by iSynergy CEO Steve Cross, this podcast was built for growth-minded professionals who crave authenticity, actionable takeaways, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to succeed.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.💡 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.

Today, we’re sitting down with Colin Rhodes, CEO of SOMOS Energy Solutions, for an inspiring deep dive into his career journey, from working construction jobs with his father to leading innovative renewable energy projects across solar, battery storage, and green hydrogen.Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a clean energy enthusiast, or simply love hearing real-world leadership lessons, this episode is packed with stories, strategies, and a dose of motivation to keep you pushing forward, especially when the path gets tough.About Our GuestColin Rhodes is the CEO of SOMOS Energy Solutions (formerly SOMOS Solar), a New Mexico-based renewable energy company specializing in large-scale solar, distributed generation, battery storage, and green hydrogen projects. With over 20 years of experience across the manufacturing, EPC, and development sides of the renewable energy sector, Colin has worked on hundreds of projects ranging from 1 MW community solar sites to 365 MW utility-scale installations.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the official podcast from the growth-obsessed team at iSynergy. Each episode dives deep into candid conversations with CEOs, founders, and business leaders who are building, scaling, and thriving across a variety of industries.Through real-world insights, hard-won lessons, and inspiring strategies, we uncover what’s driving today’s top performers and how they’re shaping the future of their businesses. From scrappy startups to established enterprises, these stories go beyond surface-level wins to explore the mindset, habits, and decisions behind real success.Hosted by iSynergy CEO Steve Cross, this podcast was built for growth-minded professionals who crave authenticity, actionable takeaways, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to succeed.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.💡 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.

In this episode of Success Stories, host Steve Cross sits down with Sean Loomer, founder of Culture For Good. Sean opens up about 40+ years of entrepreneurship, from selling gum in grade school to pioneering prepaid phone cards, building and exiting companies, and now leading a mission-driven wellness brand. We dig into mindset, timing (and why there’s never a “perfect” moment), trust and partnerships, storytelling as a superpower, and how he’s helping young athletes navigate NIL while building real, sustainable income streams.About Our GuestSean Loomer is a lifelong entrepreneur and the founder of Culture For Good, a wellness company focused on education-first, plant-based supplementation, and simple, practical health habits. Alongside his wife, Tylene, Sean has spent 20+ years teaching gut health and building products that people trust. Today, he’s combining that mission with athlete education, helping high school and college athletes understand NIL, learn business fundamentals, and create multiple income streams through authentic storytelling and ethical partnerships.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the official podcast from the growth-obsessed team at iSynergy. Each episode dives deep into candid conversations with CEOs, founders, and business leaders who are building, scaling, and thriving across a variety of industries.Through real-world insights, hard-won lessons, and inspiring strategies, we uncover what’s driving today’s top performers and how they’re shaping the future of their businesses. From scrappy startups to established enterprises, these stories go beyond surface-level wins to explore the mindset, habits, and decisions behind real success.Hosted by iSynergy CEO Steve Cross, this podcast was built for growth-minded professionals who crave authenticity, actionable takeaways, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to succeed.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.💡 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.

At just 12 years old, Noah Price was sweeping job sites in rural Idaho. Today, he’s the President of Dynamic Trades Incorporated (DTI), a thriving national commercial construction firm based in Auburn, California. His journey is anything but typical — and it’s packed with real-world insights on leadership, growth, and resilience. “By the end of high school, I thought I knew everything. But I was just getting started.”In this episode of Success Stories, host Steve Cross sits down with Noah to talk about the power of mentorship, the value of learning by doing, and the mindset that fuels long-term success in the trades. “Be the best at what you're doing that day,” Noah shares, a principle that helped him rise through the ranks and lead with purpose.About Our GuestNoah Price is the President of Dynamic Trades Inc., a fast-growing commercial general contractor licensed across the U.S. With a career that started in the field, Noah brings firsthand experience, operational expertise, and a people-first leadership style to every project and team he leads.🎯 Want to be a guest on the Success Stories podcast or need help generating leads and growing revenue for your business? 👉 Contact us at isynergy.io to get started.

In this episode of Success Stories, host Steve Cross sits down with DJ Yokley, CEO and founder of YSN (Your Sports Network). DJ shares how growing up in a double-wide with two hard-working parents shaped his grit, why a high school extra-credit assignment behind a mic changed his life, and how a series of career setbacks (including layoffs and being told he didn’t “fit” on air) ultimately pushed him toward entrepreneurship.We cover DJ’s early years and the competitive drive that shaped him, along with the unlikely moment a freshman PA gig for extra credit set him on the path to broadcasting. He opens up about the tough post-college stretch marked by layoffs, rejection, and personal loss, and how those challenges fueled the vision for YSN. DJ shares the inspiration behind building a streaming platform for high school sports, the lessons learned from bootstrapping through its early years, and how COVID unexpectedly propelled the network forward. He also talks about YSN’s mission to keep sports positive, the launch of YSN 24/7 and YSN Prospect, and why building the right team rooted in service and community has been key. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes the importance of failing forward, remembering your “why,” and staying resilient through every setback.About Our GuestDJ Yokley is the CEO and founder of YSN (Your Sports Network), a platform dedicated to celebrating high school and youth sports with community-first coverage and a positive lens. A former college broadcaster who learned every role in the newsroom—from editing to graphics—DJ channeled that full-stack skill set into launching YSN. He’s a proud husband and dad whose story is fueled by perseverance, service, and an unwavering belief that sports should be a joyful escape and a catalyst for character.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the official podcast from the growth-obsessed team at iSynergy. Each episode dives deep into candid conversations with CEOs, founders, and business leaders who are building, scaling, and thriving across a variety of industries.Through real-world insights, hard-won lessons, and inspiring strategies, we uncover what’s driving today’s top performers and how they’re shaping the future of their businesses. From scrappy startups to established enterprises, these stories go beyond surface-level wins to explore the mindset, habits, and decisions behind real success.Hosted by iSynergy CEO Steve Cross, this podcast was built for growth-minded professionals who crave authenticity, actionable takeaways, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to succeed.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.💡 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.#SuccessStories #EntrepreneurLife #FailForward #SportsBroadcasting #HighSchoolSports #YSNLive #CommunityFirst #LeadershipJourney #NeverGiveUp #StartupLife #MotivationDaily #BroadcastingCareer #KeepSportsFun #InspiringStories #ResilientMindset

In this episode of Success Stories, host Steve Cross sits down with Barb Ewing, CEO of the Youngstown Business Incubator (YBI), to talk about her career journey, leadership lessons, and the impact YBI is making on entrepreneurship, startups, and advanced manufacturing in the Mahoning Valley and across Ohio.Barb shares how her path from nonprofit work and government affairs led her to YBI, where she and her team have transformed the incubator into a national leader in business development, technology entrepreneurship, and innovation support. She also highlights how YBI’s programs—like Shark Tank YBI, the Minority Business Assistance Center, and the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Hub—are fueling economic growth and helping entrepreneurs succeed.Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a community leader, or just looking for inspiration, this conversation is full of valuable insights and stories that will leave you motivated.About Our GuestBarb Ewing is the CEO of the Youngstown Business Incubator (YBI), an award-winning program that supports technology startups, manufacturers, and small businesses. With a background at the Better Business Bureau, the Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber, and nearly a decade in government affairs with Congressman Tim Ryan, Barb has built her career on innovation, strategy, and community impact.At YBI, Barb has helped grow programs in software, healthcare, minority business support, and advanced manufacturing, positioning the incubator as a national model for regional innovation. She is passionate about helping entrepreneurs succeed and ensuring the Mahoning Valley thrives as a hub for business and technology.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the official podcast from the growth-obsessed team at iSynergy. Each episode dives deep into candid conversations with CEOs, founders, and business leaders who are building, scaling, and thriving across a variety of industries.Through real-world insights, hard-won lessons, and inspiring strategies, we uncover what’s driving today’s top performers and how they’re shaping the future of their businesses. From scrappy startups to established enterprises, these stories go beyond surface-level wins to explore the mindset, habits, and decisions behind real success.Hosted by iSynergy CEO Steve Cross, this podcast was built for growth-minded professionals who crave authenticity, actionable takeaways, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to succeed.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.💡 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.

Brad Stutzman, Founder & CEO of O3 Energy, dives into his journey from banking to becoming a leader in the renewable energy industry. Brad shares how he transitioned from financing construction projects to developing solar and wind energy solutions, the pivotal moments that shaped his leadership style, and the lessons he learned from both wins and setbacks.Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a leader in a fast-changing industry, or someone passionate about clean energy, this episode is packed with insights on patience, adaptability, and the importance of “making it happen.”About Our GuestBrad Stutzman is the Founder and CEO of O3 Energy, a Texas-based renewable energy company specializing in on-site solar generation, utility projects, and innovative energy efficiency solutions. With a career that began in banking and evolved into financing and developing renewable projects, Brad brings a unique perspective on business growth, leadership, and navigating industry shifts.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the official podcast from the growth-obsessed team at iSynergy. Each episode dives deep into candid conversations with CEOs, founders, and business leaders who are building, scaling, and thriving across a variety of industries.Through real-world insights, hard-won lessons, and inspiring strategies, we uncover what’s driving today’s top performers and how they’re shaping the future of their businesses. From scrappy startups to established enterprises, these stories go beyond surface-level wins to explore the mindset, habits, and decisions behind real success.Hosted by iSynergy CEO Steve Cross, this podcast was built for growth-minded professionals who crave authenticity, actionable takeaways, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to succeed.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.💡 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.

Henry started his career as a young civil engineer, but it didn’t take long before his focus shifted from concrete specs to business strategy. Nearly three decades later, he’s helped expand a premium roofing brand into more than 40 U.S. states—one relationship, one region, and one smart decision at a time. “You're going to make mistakes,” Henry says. “But that just means you're doing something new.”In this video, Henry shares the story of how he helped bring stone-coated steel roofing into the mainstream. From launching in Texas and Florida to earning major accounts like Menards and Lowe’s, he explains how localization, adaptability, and relentless effort are key to scaling successfully. You’ll also hear about his team’s contractor-first approach, new certification and referral programs, and why work-life boundaries matter more than ever.About Our GuestHenry Paz is the Vice President of Business Development at Roser, a global manufacturer of high-performance building materials. With nearly 30 years of experience in the construction and roofing industry, Henry has led market expansions across Latin America, Africa, Europe, and now the United States. At Roser, he’s driving national growth for their stone-coated steel roofing line—helping scale from two core states to over 40 and counting. Known for his relationship-first leadership and regionally tailored strategy, Henry blends global perspective with local execution to deliver long-term value for contractors, distributors, and homeowners alike.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the official podcast from the growth-obsessed team at iSynergy. Each episode dives deep into candid conversations with CEOs, founders, and business leaders who are building, scaling, and thriving across a variety of industries.Through real-world insights, hard-won lessons, and inspiring strategies, we uncover what’s driving today’s top performers — and how they’re shaping the future of their businesses. From scrappy startups to established enterprises, these stories go beyond surface-level wins to explore the mindset, habits, and decisions behind real success.Hosted by iSynergy CEO Steve Cross, this podcast was built for growth-minded professionals who crave authenticity, actionable takeaways, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to succeed.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.💡 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.

At just 21 years old, Andrew Dennis left England with nothing but a suitcase and a dream, and he never looked back. Today, he’s the President and Founder of GigaCrete, an innovative building materials company changing the way the world constructs homes. His journey spans continents, industries, and decades of trial-and-error experimentation. And at the heart of it all? A relentless drive to build smarter, safer, and more sustainable.In this episode of Success Stories, host Steve Cross sits down with Andrew to explore a life defined by curiosity, resilience, and world-changing innovation. From designing film sets at the BBC to creating Ballisticrete (a plaster that can stop bullets) and launching disaster-resistant housing solutions, Andrew shares the behind-the-scenes moments, hard-earned lessons, and the unwavering belief that fueled his mission. “Follow your dream,” he says, “just make sure it’s the right one, and don’t quit.”About Our GuestAndrew Dennis is the founder of GigaCrete, a Las Vegas-based company revolutionizing construction with non-toxic, energy-efficient, and disaster-proof materials. With no formal background in chemistry or engineering, Andrew built his innovations from scratch through thousands of experiments, driven by his passion for sustainability and design. GigaCrete products are now used in homes from the U.S. to the Caribbean and are even being adopted by FEMA and international governments.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the official podcast from the growth-obsessed team at iSynergy. Each episode dives deep into candid conversations with CEOs, founders, and business leaders who are building, scaling, and thriving across a variety of industries.Through real-world insights, hard-won lessons, and inspiring strategies, we uncover what’s driving today’s top performers — and how they’re shaping the future of their businesses. From scrappy startups to established enterprises, these stories go beyond surface-level wins to explore the mindset, habits, and decisions behind real success.Hosted by iSynergy CEO Steve Cross, this podcast was built for growth-minded professionals who crave authenticity, actionable takeaways, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to succeed.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.💡 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.

From Brookfield roots to global boardrooms, this is how hustle, curiosity, and AI are reshaping success.In this episode of Success Stories, host Steve Cross sits down with Jeff Leo Herrmann, Global Client Director at Kantar. Jeff takes us from his Brookfield roots to a career built on curiosity, a bias for action, and creating opportunities inside large organizations. He shares what it was like pioneering digital measurement at Nielsen (including early video-game analytics and a PS3 launch party story), why career paths are rarely linear, and how he now leads global research programs for major brands.If you’re a student, early-career pro, or a leader retooling for the AI era, this conversation is a masterclass in staying curious, building relationships, and translating consumer insights into business growth.About Our GuestJeff Leo Herrmann is the Global Client Director at Kantar, a leading marketing analytics and consumer insights firm operating in 60+ countries. Jeff’s path runs from WKBN ad research to 15 years at Nielsen (digital, streaming, and video-game audience measurement), through a decade in digital marketing and B2B media, to his current role orchestrating global research and effectiveness programs for clients including P&G and Meta. Known for his bias for action, intrapreneurial approach, and global perspective, Jeff champions using data, culture, and AI to unlock growth.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the official podcast from the growth-obsessed team at iSynergy. Each episode dives deep into candid conversations with CEOs, founders, and business leaders who are building, scaling, and thriving across a variety of industries.Through real-world insights, hard-won lessons, and inspiring strategies, we uncover what’s driving today’s top performers and how they’re shaping the future of their businesses. From scrappy startups to established enterprises, these stories go beyond surface-level wins to explore the mindset, habits, and decisions behind real success.Hosted by iSynergy CEO Steve Cross, this podcast was built for growth-minded professionals who crave authenticity, actionable takeaways, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to succeed.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.💡 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.

In this episode of Success Stories, host Steve Cross talks with Derrick McDowell, founder of Youngstown Flea and independent candidate for Mayor of Youngstown. Derrick shares how personal loss, faith, and perseverance shaped his path from a 12-year leadership career at AT&T to building the Flea, a thriving “market for makers” that’s become a local institution. He opens up about buying and restoring a historic downtown building, lessons learned in patience and purpose, and his mission to bring transparency, accountability, and opportunity to all 31 neighborhoods in Youngstown.About Our GuestDerrick McDowell is an entrepreneur, community leader, and founder of the Youngstown Flea, a celebrated “market for makers” that supports small businesses, artists, and creatives throughout Northeast Ohio. With a background in corporate leadership and consulting, Derrick blends business insight with a passion for community revitalization. He is dedicated to creating spaces that bring people together, foster local pride, and inspire economic growth. A husband, father, and man of faith, Derrick believes in leading with integrity, vision, and service, values that continue to guide his work in making Youngstown a stronger, more connected city.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the official podcast from the growth-obsessed team at iSynergy. Each episode dives deep into candid conversations with CEOs, founders, and business leaders who are building, scaling, and thriving across a variety of industries.Through real-world insights, hard-won lessons, and inspiring strategies, we uncover what’s driving today’s top performers and how they’re shaping the future of their businesses. From scrappy startups to established enterprises, these stories go beyond surface-level wins to explore the mindset, habits, and decisions behind real success.Hosted by iSynergy CEO Steve Cross, this podcast was built for growth-minded professionals who crave authenticity, actionable takeaways, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to succeed.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.💡 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.

In this episode of Success Stories, host Steve Cross sits down with Peter Caputa, CEO of Databox and former early team leader at HubSpot (employee #15). Pete walks through the pivots that shaped his career—from chemical engineering and a scrappy startup, to building HubSpot’s partner program into a revenue powerhouse, to leading Databox from ~$60k ARR to eight figures as a largely bootstrapped SaaS. It’s an honest look at innovation, sustained (not hockey-stick) growth, and building a culture where every business decision is informed by data.About Our GuestPeter Caputa is the CEO of Databox, a platform helping teams make better decisions with data. Previously, Pete spent nearly a decade at HubSpot, where he conceived and built the agency partner program that now drives a significant share of the company’s revenue. An engineer by training, Pete blends analytical rigor with go-to-market savvy, publishing daily on LinkedIn about strategy, planning, execution, and data-driven leadership. When he’s not helping teams level up their numeracy, he’s championing the idea that transparency and process unlock innovation at scale.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the official podcast from the growth-obsessed team at iSynergy. Each episode dives deep into candid conversations with CEOs, founders, and business leaders who are building, scaling, and thriving across a variety of industries.Through real-world insights, hard-won lessons, and inspiring strategies, we uncover what’s driving today’s top performers and how they’re shaping the future of their businesses. From scrappy startups to established enterprises, these stories go beyond surface-level wins to explore the mindset, habits, and decisions behind real success.Hosted by iSynergy CEO Steve Cross, this podcast was built for growth-minded professionals who crave authenticity, actionable takeaways, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to succeed.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.💡 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.

In this episode of Success Stories, host Steve Cross sits down with Liza Streiff, CEO of Knopman Marks, to talk about resilience, leadership, and building a career rooted in purpose. Liza opens up about her powerful personal journey, from overcoming early family struggles and navigating college challenges to discovering her passion for helping professionals succeed in high-stakes moments.The conversation explores how her first job “for a paycheck” became a lifelong calling, the mentors who shaped her leadership style, and the evolution of education and training in an increasingly digital world.This episode is full of insight and encouragement for anyone striving to grow their career and step into leadership.About Our GuestLiza Streiff is the CEO of Knopman Marks, a leader in training financial professionals for licensing exams and beyond. Over her 20+ year career, she has helped transform the company into a trusted partner for over 500 top firms, training hundreds of thousands of students. Liza is passionate about blending technology with a human-centered approach to education, empowering professionals not just to pass exams, but to thrive in their careers. She is also a mentor, speaker, and advocate for resilience and high performance.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the official podcast from the growth-obsessed team at iSynergy. Each episode dives deep into candid conversations with CEOs, founders, and business leaders who are building, scaling, and thriving across a variety of industries.Through real-world insights, hard-won lessons, and inspiring strategies, we uncover what’s driving today’s top performers and how they’re shaping the future of their businesses. From scrappy startups to established enterprises, these stories go beyond surface-level wins to explore the mindset, habits, and decisions behind real success.Hosted by iSynergy CEO Steve Cross, this podcast was built for growth-minded professionals who crave authenticity, actionable takeaways, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to succeed.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.💡 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.

In this episode of Success Stories, we sit down with Dominic Montori, Senior Vice President of Sales at American Tire Distributors, the largest replacement tire wholesaler in the U.S. and the world. From scraping stickers off warehouse floors to leading billion-dollar operations, Dominic’s career path is packed with lessons on grit, risk-taking, leadership, and the power of mentorship.Whether you’re an aspiring leader, entrepreneur, or someone navigating the ups and downs of your career, this episode is full of actionable insights and inspiring stories.About Our GuestDominic Montori is the Senior Vice President of Sales at American Tire Distributors, a $6 billion corporation with over 113 distribution centers nationwide. With decades of experience in the tire industry, Dominic has held leadership roles spanning from grassroots distribution to president of a global brand. Known for his high tolerance for risk, people-first leadership, and ability to scale organizations, Dominic brings a wealth of wisdom on growth, culture, and resilience.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the official podcast from the growth-obsessed team at iSynergy. Each episode dives deep into candid conversations with CEOs, founders, and business leaders who are building, scaling, and thriving across a variety of industries.Through real-world insights, hard-won lessons, and inspiring strategies, we uncover what’s driving today’s top performers and how they’re shaping the future of their businesses. From scrappy startups to established enterprises, these stories go beyond surface-level wins to explore the mindset, habits, and decisions behind real success.Hosted by iSynergy CEO Steve Cross, this podcast was built for growth-minded professionals who crave authenticity, actionable takeaways, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to succeed.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.💡 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.

What does it take to go from a college dropout to the president of a leading healthcare company? Steve Cross sits down with Dan Halas, President of Angel Care Medical, to uncover the gritty, real-world path to entrepreneurial success. From humble beginnings to industry leadership, Dan shares the mindset, moments, and mentors that helped shape his incredible journey, and how he pays it forward now.In this episode of Success Stories, you’ll hear how Dan navigated a nontraditional career path, built a thriving business in the medical equipment space, and embraced innovation through technology like asset-tracking software and real-time delivery tools. He opens up about the importance of mentorship, the power of personal branding, lessons learned in leadership, and how his company is transforming the hospice and long-term care industry with a bold vision for the future.About Our GuestDan Halas is the President and Co-Founder of Angel Care Medical, Ohio’s leading DME (durable medical equipment) rental company serving long-term care and hospice providers. With over a decade of experience and a passion for compassionate care and innovation, Dan leads a growing team across multiple states, focused on improving healthcare delivery through efficiency, technology, and heart.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the official podcast from the growth-obsessed team at iSynergy. Each episode dives deep into candid conversations with CEOs, founders, and business leaders who are building, scaling, and thriving across a variety of industries.Through real-world insights, hard-won lessons, and inspiring strategies, we uncover what’s driving today’s top performers and how they’re shaping the future of their businesses. From scrappy startups to established enterprises, these stories go beyond surface-level wins to explore the mindset, habits, and decisions behind real success.Hosted by iSynergy CEO Steve Cross, this podcast was built for growth-minded professionals who crave authenticity, actionable takeaways, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to succeed.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.💡 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.

In this episode of Success Stories, we sit down with Robert Pelletier, Owner & President of Pacific Hardwood, to dive deep into his remarkable journey from corporate executive to scaling a high-end manufacturing business nearly 4x in just a few years. Robert shares the lessons he learned from leading large-scale operations at companies like Unilever and RSI Home Products, the pivotal role of mentors, and how calculated risk-taking helped him navigate buying a company just weeks before COVID-19 shut the world down.Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business leader, this conversation is packed with insights on leadership, resilience, and building a business that thrives — even in uncertain times.About Our GuestRobert Pelletier is the Owner & President of Pacific Hardwood, a luxury wood flooring manufacturer based in California, known for serving high-end residential and commercial clients. With over 15 years in corporate leadership roles managing billion-dollar operations and mastering lean manufacturing, Robert now applies his expertise to scale Pacific Hardwood’s growth while maintaining a focus on quality, innovation, and people.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the official podcast from the growth-obsessed team at iSynergy. Each episode dives deep into candid conversations with CEOs, founders, and business leaders who are building, scaling, and thriving across a variety of industries.Through real-world insights, hard-won lessons, and inspiring strategies, we uncover what’s driving today’s top performers and how they’re shaping the future of their businesses. From scrappy startups to established enterprises, these stories go beyond surface-level wins to explore the mindset, habits, and decisions behind real success.Hosted by iSynergy CEO Steve Cross, this podcast was built for growth-minded professionals who crave authenticity, actionable takeaways, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to succeed.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.💡 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.

In this episode of Success Stories, host Steve Cross sits down with Marvin Logan, Director of Education and Employment at Rocket Community Fund. Marvin takes us on his inspiring journey from growing up in Warren, Ohio, to becoming a leader in social impact and philanthropy. He reflects on the values his father instilled in him, his early exposure to volunteering, and the mentors who helped shape his career path.The conversation explores Marvin’s first steps into nonprofit work, his decision to pursue philanthropy, and the lessons he learned from leaders who gave him the grace to grow through mistakes.About Our GuestMarvin Logan is the Director of Education and Employment at Rocket Community Fund, where he leads initiatives designed to strengthen workforce development, expand digital equity, and create post-secondary opportunities in Detroit. With more than two decades of dedication to social impact work, Marvin has helped countless people find their path through mentorship, education, and philanthropy. His passion lies in building sustainable opportunities for individuals and communities to thrive, and this fall, he begins his PhD studies at Case Western Reserve University to further his impact in the field.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the official podcast from the growth-obsessed team at iSynergy. Each episode dives deep into candid conversations with CEOs, founders, and business leaders who are building, scaling, and thriving across a variety of industries.Through real-world insights, hard-won lessons, and inspiring strategies, we uncover what’s driving today’s top performers and how they’re shaping the future of their businesses. From scrappy startups to established enterprises, these stories go beyond surface-level wins to explore the mindset, habits, and decisions behind real success.Hosted by iSynergy CEO Steve Cross, this podcast was built for growth-minded professionals who crave authenticity, actionable takeaways, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to succeed.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.💡 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.

Failure doesn’t have to be final; it can be one of the most powerful tools for growth and leadership. In this conversation, Adam Hickman shares how documenting his own failures for years has shaped not only his personal journey but also how he develops and leads others. From creating a safe space for mistakes to fostering a culture of learning, Adam’s insights will challenge the way you think about leadership and success.About Our GuestAdam Hickman is a leadership expert with a passion for transforming how organizations think about development and culture. With years of experience in executive leadership, coaching, and research-driven talent strategies, Adam currently works with Disney Partners, leading initiatives that enhance employee engagement and team performance. His unique approach blends academic expertise, practical leadership skills, and real-world experience in guiding teams through growth and change.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the official podcast from the growth-obsessed team at iSynergy. Each episode dives deep into candid conversations with CEOs, founders, and business leaders who are building, scaling, and thriving across a variety of industries.Through real-world insights, hard-won lessons, and inspiring strategies, we uncover what’s driving today’s top performers and how they’re shaping the future of their businesses. From scrappy startups to established enterprises, these stories go beyond surface-level wins to explore the mindset, habits, and decisions behind real success.Hosted by iSynergy CEO Steve Cross, this podcast was built for growth-minded professionals who crave authenticity, actionable takeaways, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to succeed.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.💡 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.

In this episode of Success Stories, host Steve Cross sits down with Ed Kiernan, founder of Stream Engine, to dive into his incredible journey, from building a career in sports marketing and entertainment to pioneering cutting-edge AI technology with real-world applications in defense, intelligence, and law enforcement.Ed shares how growing up in Northeast Ohio shaped his grit, the lessons learned from building and selling multiple agencies, and how his latest venture evolved from solving problems in esports streaming to developing dual-use technology that can protect lives worldwide.About Our GuestEd Kiernan is a seasoned entrepreneur, investor, and founder of Stream Engine, a technology company developing advanced AI-powered tools for real-time streaming analysis with applications in advertising, military intelligence, and law enforcement. With over 25 years of experience across sports marketing, entertainment, and tech, Ed has built and sold multiple agencies, partnered with top global brands, and now leads one of the most promising startups to emerge from the pandemic era.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the official podcast from the growth-obsessed team at iSynergy. Each episode dives deep into candid conversations with CEOs, founders, and business leaders who are building, scaling, and thriving across a variety of industries.Through real-world insights, hard-won lessons, and inspiring strategies, we uncover what’s driving today’s top performers and how they’re shaping the future of their businesses. From scrappy startups to established enterprises, these stories go beyond surface-level wins to explore the mindset, habits, and decisions behind real success.Hosted by iSynergy CEO Steve Cross, this podcast was built for growth-minded professionals who crave authenticity, actionable takeaways, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to succeed.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.💡 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.

From Washington, D.C. to leading Ohio’s tech future — Chris Berry’s story is one of leadership, resilience, and building something from scratch. In this episode, he shares how OhioX is connecting innovators, growing opportunity, and shaping the state’s technology landscape.In this episode of Success Stories with Steve Cross, we sit down with Chris Berry, President & CEO of OhioX, to dive into his journey from growing up in Akron, Ohio, to working in Washington D.C., and eventually leading Ohio’s statewide technology trade association.We cover everything from his early passion for history and government, lessons learned from politics, and what it takes to start an organization from scratch, to the future of Ohio’s technology sector and the opportunities to keep talent in the state. Chris also shares candid insights on leadership, servant leadership, and how he approaches challenges while building something new.If you’re interested in entrepreneurship, leadership, technology, or Ohio’s growing innovation ecosystem, this episode is packed with wisdom and perspective you won’t want to miss.About Our GuestChris Berry is the President and CEO of OhioX, a nonprofit trade association dedicated to building Ohio into a top tech hub. Under his leadership, OhioX connects, promotes, and advocates for the state’s technology community, bringing together startups, corporations, government, and educators to drive innovation.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the official podcast from the growth-obsessed team at iSynergy. Each episode dives deep into candid conversations with CEOs, founders, and business leaders who are building, scaling, and thriving across a variety of industries.Through real-world insights, hard-won lessons, and inspiring strategies, we uncover what’s driving today’s top performers and how they’re shaping the future of their businesses. From scrappy startups to established enterprises, these stories go beyond surface-level wins to explore the mindset, habits, and decisions behind real success.Hosted by iSynergy CEO Steve Cross, this podcast was built for growth-minded professionals who crave authenticity, actionable takeaways, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to succeed.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.💡 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.

Welcome back to Success Stories! In this episode, we sit down with Lindsay Kaplan, co-founder of Chief, the groundbreaking executive network designed to connect and support women leaders.From her early days in book publishing to becoming the first employee at Casper and eventually co-founding Chief, Lindsay shares her non-linear journey to entrepreneurship and leadership.If you’ve ever wondered how to build something that truly strikes a nerve in the market (or how to lead without burning out), this is for you.About Our GuestLindsay Kaplan is the co-founder of Chief, the premier executive network for women, valued at over $1 billion. Before launching Chief, she was the first employee at Casper, helping build the brand into a household name. A creative at heart and an English major turned entrepreneur, Lindsay has become a leader in brand strategy, community building, and early-stage investing. Today, she serves on the Chief’s board of directors while advising and investing in startups.About Success StoriesWelcome to Success Stories, the official podcast from the growth-obsessed team at iSynergy. Each episode dives deep into candid conversations with CEOs, founders, and business leaders who are building, scaling, and thriving across a variety of industries.Through real-world insights, hard-won lessons, and inspiring strategies, we uncover what’s driving today’s top performers and how they’re shaping the future of their businesses. From scrappy startups to established enterprises, these stories go beyond surface-level wins to explore the mindset, habits, and decisions behind real success.Hosted by iSynergy CEO Steve Cross, this podcast was built for growth-minded professionals who crave authenticity, actionable takeaways, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to succeed.👉 Subscribe to the channel and hit the bell so you never miss an episode.💡 For more about iSynergy and how we help brands grow through strategic digital marketing, visit https://isynergy.io/connect/.