The Unscripted Climb

PODCAST · business

The Unscripted Climb

Welcome to The Unscripted Climb. This is the podcast where business gets real and the filters get left at the door.Hosted by Chris Beecham, a no-fluff entrepreneur who’s sold plasma to keep the lights on, and Natalie Micale, a branding expert who’s built more than her fair share of empires from scratch. We’re here to talk about what actually happens behind the highlight reels.This isn’t your manifest your best life show. This is for the founders, leaders, and business owners who’ve white-knuckled their way through growth, failure, reinvention, and maybe a public meltdown or two.Why Listen?Because behind every shiny brand is a messy middle. We ask the questions most podcasts won’tWhat was your biggest screw-upHow close were you to quittingAnd what kept you from walking awayWhat You’ll Hear:• Wild origin stories • Marketing disasters and comebacks • Real-talk sales advice • Team

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    Neil Galas- Real Estate Investor

    Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Unscripted Climb, Neil Galas breaks down one of the most common (and expensive) mistakes young adults make: committing to college without first exploring real-world work and career options. Neil argues that jumping straight into college often delays clarity instead of creating it. Instead, he encourages young people to spend time working — especially in challenging, physical labor jobs — to better understand their strengths, limits, work ethic, and long-term goals. This conversation is a reality check for students, parents, and anyone questioning whether the traditional “college first” path actually makes sense for everyone. What you’ll learn in this episode: • Why most young adults don’t actually know what they want yet — and why that’s okay • How real-world experience can provide faster career clarity than classrooms • The hidden value of physical labor jobs in building discipline and perspective • Why slowing down before college can prevent regret and wasted money • How hard work can quickly teach you what you don’t want long-term If you’re a student feeling pressure to decide your future, a parent trying to guide without pushing, or someone who took the long way around and learned the hard way — this episode will hit home. Sound bite worth hearing twice: “Go find the hardest physical labor job you can.” Subscribe for more honest conversations about careers, entrepreneurship, and figuring life out without pretending anyone has it all solved. 💥 Want a free merch or brand audit? Just ask. No pressure, just people helping people. 👉 Perch-Merch.com👉 OhHelloAgency.co🔗 Connect with Us:Chris Beecham on LinkedInNatalie Micale on LinkedInCheck out our podcast website here 

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    Mike Smith: From Skateparks to Global Impact

    Send us Fan MailMike Smith joins The Unscripted Climb to share how he went from sleeping under bridges and building skateparks in malls… to becoming a nationally recognized youth speaker, nonprofit founder, and full-time dad.In this episode, Mike talks about his three “lives” — launching youth centers, becoming a top-tier speaker, and chasing his wildest dream of being an international adventure guide. He also breaks down his “compensation model” from Stanford, what AI is doing to creativity, and why Gen Z is struggling to build real memories.Whether you're raising capital, raising kids, or raising your standards — this conversation will hit you in the soul.—Follow the show and leave a review if you’re climbing your own mountain.📍 Topics: entrepreneurship, youth development, nonprofit leadership, impact investing, public speaking, AI and creativity, parenting, social innovation, lifestyle design, life after burnout, community building, adventure💥 Want a free merch or brand audit? Just ask. No pressure, just people helping people. 👉 Perch-Merch.com👉 OhHelloAgency.co🔗 Connect with Us:Chris Beecham on LinkedInNatalie Micale on LinkedInCheck out our podcast website here 

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    Shermin Lakha on Branding, Business Law & Bold Pivots

    Send us Fan MailShermin Lakha isn’t your average attorney—and she doesn’t run average businesses.In this episode of The Unscripted Climb, she shares how she grew Level Up Legal and Tiger Tiger Creative Agency without a single paid ad. Instead, she relied on creativity, community, and content.From building an all-female law firm focused on IP and startup law, to helping brands and creators close deals through shoppable content, Shamim’s journey is packed with tactical takeaways for entrepreneurs ready to pivot, lead, and grow.If you’re tired of playing small—this one’s for you.💥 Want a free merch or brand audit? Just ask. No pressure, just people helping people. 👉 Perch-Merch.com👉 OhHelloAgency.co🔗 Connect with Us:Chris Beecham on LinkedInNatalie Micale on LinkedInCheck out our podcast website here 

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    Bonnie Blackman on Reinventing Yourself After Failure

    Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Bonnie Blackman opens up about what happens after the world knocks you down—and how you build something even better. After losing her teaching job, Bonnie transitioned from educator to entrepreneur, creating a publishing business grounded in empathy, passion, and purpose.She talks candidly about what it means to fail, how to find your voice again, and why joy isn’t optional—it’s your job to create it.Takeaways:Failure is part of the path—use it.Relationships matter more than résumés.Passion-led businesses don’t burn you out.Own your happy. It’s not someone else’s job.If you're looking for a reason to keep going, this is it.💥 Want a free merch or brand audit? Just ask. No pressure, just people helping people. 👉 Perch-Merch.com👉 OhHelloAgency.co🔗 Connect with Us:Chris Beecham on LinkedInNatalie Micale on LinkedInCheck out our podcast website here 

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    Daine Patton: From Pest Control to Building a Wildlife Business

    Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Unscripted Climb, Christopher Beecham and Natalie Micale sit down with Daine Patton, the founder of Bats to Rats, to talk about his wild ride from pest control rookie to wildlife management CEO—and the 100-pound transformation that changed his life.Daine opens up about becoming a dad at 19, navigating marriage and business, and how COVID ironically became one of his biggest growth opportunities. From hiring challenges to personal health battles, this episode is full of straight-up entrepreneurial truth and transformation.Whether you're scaling a service business, managing chaos at home, or trying to shed the weight (literal or metaphorical), this one hits hard.🔥 What You’ll Learn:How Daine went from pest control to owning a wildlife removal businessWhy COVID-19 helped his business explodeThe leadership challenges of hiring (and firing) friendsHow he lost over 100 lbs and kept it offThe connection between discipline in fitness and business growthWhy starting small in personal development worksWhat it takes to lead a team when everything is on the line📌 Chapters (YouTube):00:00 – Navigating Personal and Professional Life 08:28 – The Journey of Entrepreneurship 17:22 – Building a Team and Overcoming Challenges 26:45 – Health, Wellness, and Family Priorities 27:53 – The Turning Point: A Father's Reflection 32:20 – Commitment to Change: The Journey Begins 35:46 – Transforming Body and Mind: The Power of Weight Training 42:09 – Beyond Fitness: Personal Development and Business Growth 49:26 – Sharing the Journey: Leadership and Community Impact💥 Want a free merch or brand audit? Just ask. No pressure, just people helping people. 👉 Perch-Merch.com👉 OhHelloAgency.co🔗 Connect with Us:Chris Beecham on LinkedInNatalie Micale on LinkedInCheck out our podcast website here 

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    Greg Harris on Building Quantum Workplace

    Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Unscripted Climb, hosts Christopher Beecham and Natalie Micale sit down with Greg Harris, the founder and CEO of Quantum Workplace, to unpack the 23-year journey from startup struggles to building one of the most respected names in employee engagement.Greg gets real about the early days of selling raw data, the emotional decision to pivot the business model, and how resilience kept him going through the chaos. He also shares his thoughts on how AI is reshaping the future of work—and why he's optimistic about it.If you're navigating your own entrepreneurial curveballs or wondering how to stay ahead of innovation without losing your soul, this one’s for you.🔥 What You’ll Learn:How Quantum Workplace evolved from a data product into a full-scale software companyThe real story behind walking away from the original business modelWhat it took to educate the market on employee engagementWhy Greg sees AI as a superpower, not a threatThe biggest misconceptions about leadership and scalingWhy comparing yourself to competitors is a distractionHow to build a profitable business without losing your curiosity💥 Want a free merch or brand audit? Just ask. No pressure, just people helping people. 👉 Perch-Merch.com👉 OhHelloAgency.co🔗 Connect with Us:Chris Beecham on LinkedInNatalie Micale on LinkedInCheck out our podcast website here 

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    Nathan Karaway- The Unfiltered Rise of Premier Brick

    Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Unscripted Climb, Chris Beecham and Natalie Micale sit down with Nate Karaway, founder of Premier Brick, to talk about how a career built in corporate turned into a mission to build with literal grit.Nate shares his unfiltered entrepreneurial journey—from sports to the brick industry, from desk job to design consultancy. He breaks down how Premier Brick is more than just a materials supplier—it's a purpose-driven business focused on education, community impact, and passionate leadership.Expect stories about:Jumping from the comfort of corporate life into the fire of entrepreneurshipUsing brick to rebuild communities after disasterBuilding a team that actually wants to be thereAnd yes, what it means to “eat the frog” (figuratively speaking—we hope)This episode is packed with tactical takeaways and real talk for anyone scaling a business, chasing a vision, or just trying to survive the next client meeting.📌 YouTube Chapters00:00 - Introduction to the Unscripted Climb Podcast 01:56 - Nate Karaway's Entrepreneurial Journey 08:05 - The Birth of Premier Brick 11:56 - Navigating the Transition from Corporate to Entrepreneurship 18:55 - The Impact of Brick on Lives and Communities 24:05 - Building a Passionate Team 30:04 - Scaling a Design Consultancy 35:48 - Overcoming Challenges in Business Growth 39:59 - Vision for the Future of Premier Brick💥 Want a free merch or brand audit? Just ask. No pressure, just people helping people. 👉 Perch-Merch.com👉 OhHelloAgency.co🔗 Connect with Us:Chris Beecham on LinkedInNatalie Micale on LinkedInCheck out our podcast website here 

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    Sustainable Furniture & Female Grit: Susan Pilato’s Bold Climb with Mantra

    Send us Fan MailSusan Pilato didn’t just build a furniture brand — she’s reshaping what sustainability and leadership look like in a traditionally male-dominated industry.In this episode of The Unscripted Climb, Christopher Beecham and Natalie Micale sit down with the founder and CEO of Mantra to unpack her journey from interior designer to furniture entrepreneur. Fresh off Neocon (the Super Bowl of the furniture world), Susan shares what it really takes to build a sustainable brand, lead with purpose, and stand tall as a woman in business.🎯 You’ll learn:Why Neocon is a game-changer for the design worldHow Susan navigated entrepreneurship as a creative woman in a capital-driven worldThe misunderstood truth about real sustainability in furnitureHow to build a brand that lasts (without selling your soul)The importance of allowing creativity to breathe inside your teamWhat the future of Mantra looks like—and why she’s not slowing downIf you’re into smart business strategy, sustainability with bite, and underdog stories with sharp edges… this one’s for you.💥 Want a free merch or brand audit? Just ask. No pressure, just people helping people. 👉 Perch-Merch.com👉 OhHelloAgency.co🔗 Connect with Us:Chris Beecham on LinkedInNatalie Micale on LinkedInCheck out our podcast website here 

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    Ep 9 Surf Shops, Apparel, and Entrepreneur Grit with Steven Vitale

    Send us Fan MailSteven Vitale doesn’t just run a surf boutique and an apparel brand—he’s building two movements. In this episode of The Unscripted Climb, hosts Christopher Beecham and Natalie Micale sit down with the founder of Cape Maid and Lifting Culture Apparel to unpack the reality of running multiple businesses, staying creative, and managing debt while still finding joy in the grind.Whether you're scaling a retail brand or just trying to pay off startup credit cards, this episode will hit home.Steven dives into:Building an online presence that actually convertsCross-promoting between two brandsHow DJing and music fuel his business creativityMarket research and choosing the right brick-and-mortar locationThe not-so-glamorous side of entrepreneurship (spoiler: debt)Email marketing and customer loyalty strategiesWhy resilience and finding joy matter more than perfectionThis isn’t just a highlight reel. It's the messy, motivating, brutally honest story of what it really takes to build something meaningful.🧠 Keywords:entrepreneurship, Steven Vitale, Cape Maid, Lifting Culture Apparel, small business, creativity in business, apparel brand, surf boutique, debt management, brick-and-mortar success, e-commerce strategy, market research, cross promotion, customer engagement, online presence, business growth, startup struggle, retail branding, email marketing, resilience, The Unscripted Climb podcast⏱️ Chapters (YouTube):00:00 – Entrepreneurial Journey and Cape Maid Overview 02:35 – The Brick and Mortar Experience 04:53 – Lifting Culture Apparel: A Decade of Learning 07:45 – Building a Culture in Business 10:29 – The Role of AI in Entrepreneurship 13:04 – Creativity and DJing as an Entrepreneurial Outlet 15:59 – Future Aspirations in Music and Business 18:35 – Comparing Business Models: Cape Maid vs. Lifting Culture 21:34 – Seasonality and Location Strategy for Cape Maid 25:03 – Understanding Sales Trends and Market Dynamics 27:33 – The Evolution of Lifting Culture and Event Marketing 30:45 – The Importance of Email Marketing and Customer Engagement 32:29 – Cross-Promotion Strategies for Business Growth 35:06 – Navigating Challenges and Making Tough Choices 38:43 – Balancing Debt and Entrepreneurship 44:05 – Embracing Change and Exploring New Opportunities 💥 Want a free merch or brand audit? Just ask. No pressure, just people helping people. 👉 Perch-Merch.com👉 OhHelloAgency.co🔗 Connect with Us:Chris Beecham on LinkedInNatalie Micale on LinkedInCheck out our podcast website here 

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    Ep 8 Jess Loseke- From Bourbon Barrels to Business Boss – The Midwest Barrel Story

    Send us Fan MailWhat happens when your husband's hobby turns into a full-blown business empire? Meet Jess Loseke, CEO of Midwest Barrel Company, who took a leap into the bourbon barrel industry and never looked back.In this episode, Jess gets real about the gritty side of entrepreneurship—from navigating cash flow chaos in an inventory-heavy business to working shoulder-to-shoulder with her spouse (and staying married through it). We talk leadership, scaling, e-commerce, and why relocating to Kentucky was the bold move that changed everything.If you’re building a business from scratch, wrestling with growth, or just curious about how to turn a niche idea into a powerhouse brand, this episode is your shot of straight bourbon wisdom—no chaser.🔥 Key Topics:Entrepreneurship without a safety netCash flow management in inventory-based businessesE-commerce and email marketing strategiesLeadership dynamics with your spouseRisk-taking and relocating for growthBuilding culture while scalingExpanding into international marketsSustainability and future plans🔑 SEO Keywords: Midwest Barrel Company, bourbon industry, e-commerce, entrepreneurship, business scaling, leadership, cash flow challenges, partnerships, business growth, Kentucky bourbon barrels, sustainability in business, working with your spouse💬 Sound Bites:“Working with your spouse is not for everyone.”“I want to quit sometimes, but I don’t.”“It was a calculated risk—but the right one.”📌 Chapters: 00:00 – Podcasting Adventures and Networking 00:44 – The Journey of Midwest Barrel Company 08:23 – Overcoming Personal Challenges 17:20 – Navigating Business Decisions and Partnerships 22:43 – Cash Flow Management and Economic Challenges 26:55 – Transitioning to a New Facility 29:14 – Navigating Leadership Dynamics 34:36 – Scaling Strategies and Market Expansion 40:41 – Overcoming Entrepreneurial Challenges 46:13 – Taking Risks and Future Vision💥 Want a free merch or brand audit? Just ask. No pressure, just people helping people. 👉 Perch-Merch.com👉 OhHelloAgency.co🔗 Connect with Us:Chris Beecham on LinkedInNatalie Micale on LinkedInCheck out our podcast website here 

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    Ep 7 Eric Prellwitz- PrellWitz Exteriors

    Send us Fan MailIn this raw and real episode of The Unscripted Climb, we interview Eric Prellwitz, owner of Prellwitz Exteriors, on what it really takes to grow a business in today’s world. From battling seasonal slowdowns to building trust with skeptical customers, Eric opens up about the grind behind the growth.This episode covers:The difference between sounding authentic and being authentic in salesWhy most marketing is BS (and what still works)How AI is changing the game for small businessesThe uphill battle of finding and keeping motivated salespeopleWhy resilience matters more than your business planWhether you're a solopreneur, scaling a team, or just tired of faking it till you make it—this episode’s for you.💥 Want a free merch or brand audit? Just ask. No pressure, just people helping people. 👉 Perch-Merch.com👉 OhHelloAgency.co🔗 Connect with Us:Chris Beecham on LinkedInNatalie Micale on LinkedInCheck out our podcast website here 

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    Ep 6.5 – How to Update Your Social Media (and Why It Matters) – Mini Marketing Series

    Send us Fan MailIf your LinkedIn still looks like it did when you graduated college—or worse, when you first signed up—it’s killing your credibility.In this quick-hit mini episode of The Unscripted Climb, Natalie Micale shares why keeping your personal and business social profiles up to date matters more than you think, and exactly what to update to boost your brand’s digital presence.From deleting those ancient party pics to writing bios that actually sound like a human, Natalie gives you a high-level checklist for refreshing your profiles, using AI tools to make it faster, and leveraging platform features so the algorithm actually works for you.💡 Takeaways: • Why your social media presence = modern-day first impression • The essential updates every profile needs • How to use AI to audit and improve your bios • Why headshots still matter (and why AI-generated ones are creepy) • How using new platform features boosts your visibility🎙️ Hosted by Chris Beecham & Natalie Micale📌 Keywords: social media tips, personal branding, profile optimization, LinkedIn updates, Instagram bio, AI for marketing, digital credibility, Perch Merch, Oh Hello Agency💥 Want a free merch or brand audit? Just ask. No pressure, just people helping people. 👉 Perch-Merch.com👉 OhHelloAgency.co🔗 Connect with Us:Chris Beecham on LinkedInNatalie Micale on LinkedInCheck out our podcast website here 

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    Ep 6- Steven Stark- How Thriftworld Built 8 Stores Without Selling Out

    Send us Fan MailWhat does it take to grow a thrift store empire in a world obsessed with fast fashion? In this episode of The Unscripted Climb, we sit down with Steve Stark, founder of Thriftworld—an Omaha-based thrift chain now spanning eight locations—to uncover the real journey behind building a sustainable business that actually scales.Steve doesn’t hold back. He dives into the 12-year grind of growth, the myths surrounding thrift stores, and how his team reinvented the thrifting experience to feel more like a treasure hunt than a discount bin. You'll hear how e-commerce reshaped their strategy, why culture and leadership became his secret weapon, and how COVID nearly wrecked everything—but didn’t.Whether you’re a fan of entrepreneurship, marketing strategy, sustainability, or you just love a good business underdog story—this episode delivers. Unfiltered, real, and packed with hard-earned insight.What You'll Learn:How Steve transitioned from a family biz into the thrift economyThe operational differences between Thriftworld and GoodwillWhy branding and experience matter—even in secondhand retailHow to lead with empathy, define clear roles, and grow a resilient teamThe marketing strategies that turned Thriftworld into a regional brandWhat COVID taught him about business (hint: adapt or die)💥 Want a free merch or brand audit? Just ask. No pressure, just people helping people. 👉 Perch-Merch.com👉 OhHelloAgency.co🔗 Connect with Us:Chris Beecham on LinkedInNatalie Micale on LinkedInCheck out our podcast website here 

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    Ep 5.5 – Why Your Messaging Matters (Mini Marketing Series)

    Send us Fan MailYour brand isn’t just what you sell—it’s the stories you tell and the words you choose to tell them.In this mini episode of The Unscripted Climb, Natalie Micale breaks down why brand messaging is more than just a tagline or mission statement. It’s your voice, your tone, your values, and the way you make people feel every time they interact with your business.We cover how to move beyond bland, forgettable phrases like “reliable” and “trustworthy,” how a strong brand voice can literally get you inbound leads without asking, and why customers aren’t just buying your product—they’re buying your values.If your brand voice is flat, generic, or nonexistent, this is your blueprint for fixing it.💡 Takeaways: • Messaging = stories + words + tone • Your brand voice should make your audience feel something • Values drive messaging—and customers buy values, not just products • A clear, consistent voice gets attention and builds connection • “Reliable” and “trustworthy” aren’t messages—they’re bare minimums🎙️ Hosted by Chris Beecham & Natalie Micale📌 Keywords: brand messaging, brand voice, marketing tips, branding strategy, brand positioning, storytelling in business, small business branding, Perch Merch, Oh Hello Agency💥 Want a free merch or brand audit? Just ask. No pressure, just people helping people. 👉 Perch-Merch.com👉 OhHelloAgency.co🔗 Connect with Us:Chris Beecham on LinkedInNatalie Micale on LinkedInCheck out our podcast website here 

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    Ep 5 – Nicole Biscuiti: Inventing a Patented Sports Bra and Knowing When to Walk Away

    Send us Fan MailNicole Biscuiti built Chesty from a DIY idea at a weightlifting competition into the first-ever patented sports bra with built-in collarbone protection — sold in 72 countries over a decade. Then, at the height of her brand’s success, she made the toughest call of her career: closing the business.In this candid conversation, Nicole shares the real highs and lows of building a niche product, navigating manufacturing challenges, fundraising, and learning when protecting your mental health has to come first.Whether you’re dreaming of bringing a product to market or figuring out if it’s time to pivot, this episode is packed with lessons you won’t find in business books.💡 Takeaways: • The surprising origin story of Chesty • Why patents matter (and how to get one) • Fundraising realities for product-based businesses • What happens when your product lasts “too long” • Recognizing burnout and making the hard call to close🎙️ Hosted by Chris Beecham & Natalie Micale 🔗 Guest: Nicole Biscuiti – Instagram: @butterandbiscuits📌 Keywords: entrepreneurship, product innovation, sports bra patent, mental health in business, manufacturing challenges, fundraising, business closure, Chesty sports bra, CrossFit apparel, resilience, Perch Merch, Oh Hello Agency💥 Want a free merch or brand audit? Just ask. No pressure, just people helping people. 👉 Perch-Merch.com👉 OhHelloAgency.co🔗 Connect with Us:Chris Beecham on LinkedInNatalie Micale on LinkedInCheck out our podcast website here 

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    Ep 4.5 – Why You Actually Need a Marketing Strategy (Mini Marketing Series)

    Send us Fan MailThink a marketing strategy is just an expensive fluff document? Natalie Micale is here to tell you why it’s the opposite — and why skipping it could be costing you money, time, and clarity.In this 6-minute mini episode, we break down what a marketing strategy really is, how it forces you to prioritize where you spend your resources, and why it’s the anchor for every decision you make about your brand.We cover how different industries prioritize different marketing channels (and why golf tournaments might be worth $50K for one business but not a dime for another), how to make sure your budget hits your actual audience, and the one tool founders actually want when it comes to tracking results.If you’ve been running your business without a plan, this is your wake-up call.💡 Takeaways: • A marketing strategy is about prioritization, not perfection • Your budget should align with where your audience actually is • Industry-specific marketing works because it meets your clients in their space • Tracking KPIs should be simple, clear, and consistent • Without a strategy, you’re just guessing🎙️ Hosted by Chris Beecham & Natalie Micale📌 Keywords: marketing strategy, business growth, brand strategy, marketing ROI, small business marketing, KPI tracking, marketing tips, Perch Merch, Oh Hello Agency💥 Want a free merch or brand audit? Just ask. No pressure, just people helping people. 👉 Perch-Merch.com👉 OhHelloAgency.co🔗 Connect with Us:Chris Beecham on LinkedInNatalie Micale on LinkedInCheck out our podcast website here 

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    Ep 4 – Sarah Cano: From Hailstorm Hustle to Roofing Powerhouse

    Send us Fan MailSarah Cano didn’t plan to start a roofing company—but when a hailstorm hit, she built Rooforia from the ground up.In this episode of The Unscripted Climb, Sarah shares how she grew a multimillion-dollar business in one of the most male-dominated industries out there. From defining core values to building a team that actually believes in them, she walks through the wins, losses, and lessons that shaped Rooforia’s success.We talk marketing, leadership, simplification, and why vulnerability might be your best business asset.💡 Takeaways:Start where the opportunity is—even if it’s a hailstormCore values = more than a poster on the wallCommunity involvement is your best referral engineSimplifying your services often increases profitsVulnerability isn’t weakness—it’s a leadership strategy🎙️ Hosted by Chris Beecham & Natalie Micale Keywords: roofing, entrepreneurship, female founder, team building, business growth, marketing strategy, core values, Rooforia, resilience💥 Want a free merch or brand audit? Just ask. No pressure, just people helping people. 👉 Perch-Merch.com👉 OhHelloAgency.co🔗 Connect with Us:Chris Beecham on LinkedInNatalie Micale on LinkedInCheck out our podcast website here 

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    Ep 3.5 – What Makes a Brand Look Like a Brand? (Mini Episode)

    Send us Fan MailIn this mini episode of The Unscripted Climb, Natalie Micale breaks down what visual identity actually means—and why it's way more than just slapping a logo on a coffee mug and calling it a day.She shares practical steps for solopreneurs building a brand on a budget, from building Pinterest boards to finding your freelance dream designer—and explains how fonts, colors, and layout actually influence customer perception (yes, even on that Instagram post you slapped together at midnight).If your “brand” still looks like a default Canva template, this one’s for you.💡 Takeaways:Visual identity is a system, not a single fileYou don’t need a massive budget to start looking proYour merch, content, and design should feel cohesiveDone > perfect—especially when you're just getting startedBrand decisions should be data-informed, not vibe-driven🎙️ Hosted by Chris Beecham & Natalie Micale Keywords: visual identity, branding, solopreneur, logo design, typography, brand consistency, color palette, budget-friendly branding💥 Want a free merch or brand audit? Just ask. No pressure, just people helping people. 👉 Perch-Merch.com👉 OhHelloAgency.co🔗 Connect with Us:Chris Beecham on LinkedInNatalie Micale on LinkedInCheck out our podcast website here 

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    Ep 3 – Mike Ware: Serial Entrepreneur, Snow Removal King & Sales Strategist

    Send us Fan MailFrom selling newspapers as a kid to building snow removal empires and launching fireworks companies, Mike Ware has done the thing—many times over.In this episode, Mike joins The Unscripted Climb to share the real lessons learned across a lifetime of business. We talk about sales that don’t feel slimy, marketing that actually works, and what happens when you refuse to retire (or slow down).Whether you're on business #1 or #15, Mike’s story is a masterclass in grit, reinvention, and building relationships that last.💡 Takeaways:Resilience > ResumeListening is your best sales moveGood marketing doesn’t need to be expensive—just smartEvolve, adapt, and stay curiousYou don’t need to “retire” if you love what you’re building📌 Keywords: entrepreneurship, serial entrepreneur, sales strategies, snow removal, real estate, personal growth, marketing tactics, business resilience, relationship building💥 Want a free merch or brand audit? Just ask. No pressure, just people helping people. 👉 Perch-Merch.com👉 OhHelloAgency.co🔗 Connect with Us:Chris Beecham on LinkedInNatalie Micale on LinkedInCheck out our podcast website here 

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    Ep 2.5 – The Essence of Branding (Mini Marketing Series)

    Send us Fan MailYour logo isn’t your brand. Your beliefs are.In this mini episode of The Unscripted Climb, Chris and Natalie break down what branding actually is—and why most people are doing it wrong. From values to visuals, boldness to positioning, this is the gut-punch guide to building a brand that’s real, relatable, and actually memorable.Whether you’re a solopreneur or leading a team, this is 10 minutes that will make you rethink your brand from the inside out.💡 Takeaways:Everyone is a brand (whether you like it or not)A brand is a belief system in actionVisuals are just the final layer—start deeperBoldness creates connection“Integrity” and “reliability” aren’t values—they’re expectations🎙️ Hosted by Chris Beecham & Natalie Micale📌 Keywords: branding, brand identity, marketing tips, personal brand, business strategy, brand values, customer connection, entrepreneurship, brand differentiation, visual identity💥 Want a free merch or brand audit? Just ask. No pressure, just people helping people. 👉 Perch-Merch.com👉 OhHelloAgency.co🔗 Connect with Us:Chris Beecham on LinkedInNatalie Micale on LinkedInCheck out our podcast website here 

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    Ep 2 – Natalie Micale: How She Built a 6-Figure Marketing Agency from Scratch

    Send us Fan MailBefore she built one of the most recognizable marketing agencies in the Midwest, Natalie Micale was flipping garage sale finds and negotiating like a tiny CEO-in-training. In this episode, Natalie shares her journey from journalism student to the founder of Oh Hello Agency—and all the missteps, mindset shifts, and marketing mayhem along the way.From unpaid internships to investor fallout, she opens up about what it really takes to grow a business that isn’t just profitable—but personal.This is a no-fluff look at brand-building, relationship-driven sales, and what happens when you actually stay focused.💡 Key Takeaways:You don’t need to follow your degree to find your careerCold calls still work—if you know your storyBranding without a belief system is just noiseFailure isn’t final—it’s just expensive educationSales is about connection, not closing🔗 Guest: Natalie Micale on LinkedIn🎙️ Hosted by Chris Beecham & Natalie Micale📌 Keywords: entrepreneurship, branding, marketing agency, digital marketing, startup challenges, Oh Hello Agency, personal branding, business growth, storytelling, sales strategies, relationship-driven sales💥 Want a free merch or brand audit? Just ask. No pressure, just people helping people. 👉 Perch-Merch.com👉 OhHelloAgency.co🔗 Connect with Us:Chris Beecham on LinkedInNatalie Micale on LinkedInCheck out our podcast website here 

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    🎧 Ep 1.5 – What Is a Brand? (Mini Marketing Series)

    Send us Fan MailMini Episode = Big Truths. In this first mini episode of The Unscripted Climb, cohost Natalie Micale unpacks the real meaning of branding—and spoiler alert: it’s not just your logo.Your brand is your belief system with a visual identity. It’s what you stand for, how you show up, and why people connect (or don’t). This bite-sized episode hits the heart of what makes branding work—and why most brands miss the mark by playing it safe.Whether you're building a personal brand or trying to scale your business, this is the wake-up call your marketing strategy probably needs.🔥 Takeaways:A brand is your belief system, not just a visualPlaying it safe is playing to be forgottenAuthentic brands attract aligned customersCore values should mean something (sorry, “integrity” doesn’t count)If your branding doesn’t take a stance, it’s just noise🛠️ Need help building a brand that actually connects?Oh Hello Agency – Smart strategy. Killer design.Perch Merch – Merch that tells your brand story (without looking like a company picnic giveaway)🎙️ Hosted by Chris Beecham & Natalie Micale🎯 Keywords: branding, brand identity, marketing tips, personal brand, business growth, brand values, differentiation, customer connection, brand strategy, visual identity💥 Want a free merch or brand audit? Just ask. No pressure, just people helping people. 👉 Perch-Merch.com👉 OhHelloAgency.co🔗 Connect with Us:Chris Beecham on LinkedInNatalie Micale on LinkedInCheck out our podcast website here 

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    Ep 1 – Chris Beecham: From Selling Plasma to Selling Merch

    Send us Fan Mail🎙️ Episode 1: How Losing Everything Became the Start of EverythingWelcome to the relaunch of The Unscripted Climb, where business isn’t always pretty—but it’s always real. Host Chris Beecham kicks things off by sharing his own story of screwing things up, starting over, and building again (and again).From riding high in real estate to bottoming out in bankruptcy court, Chris talks through what it actually takes to rebuild a life and a business—without the LinkedIn fluff.This is for the entrepreneurs who’ve cried in their car, second-guessed everything, and kept going anyway.What You’ll Hear:How the 2008 market crash wrecked his first businessThe gym that bankrupted him How Empire Painting rose from the ashesWhy Perch Merch exists (and how it’s still fighting to grow)Juggling two podcasts, multiple businesses, and some mild sanity🚨 Sponsored by Real Life (and also: Perch Merch + Oh Hello Agency) We’re not here to sell you cheap pens—we help businesses build brand loyalty through custom merch, smart marketing, and premium design.💥 Want a free merch or brand audit? Just ask. No pressure, just people helping people. 👉 Perch-Merch.com 👉 OhHelloAgency.com⏱️ Timestamps for the Skippers:00:42 – Losing it all in the 2008 crash08:57 – Buying a gym (and regretting everything)18:54 – Rebuilding with Empire Painting27:31 – Starting Perch Merch while still figuring it out36:23 – Lessons in trust, marketing, and sheer survival📈 Keywords  entrepreneurship journey, business after bankruptcy, real estate market crash, failed gym story, starting over in business, building a painting company, starting a screen printing business, promotional products, brand marketing agency, Perch Merch, Oh Hello Agency, podcast for business owners, real business advice💬 Brought to you by Perch Merch — where your merch game levels up, or you don’t play at all. And Oh Hello Agency — where brands get their act together.💥 Want a free merch or brand audit? Just ask. No pressure, just people helping people. 👉 Perch-Merch.com👉 OhHelloAgency.co🔗 Connect with Us:Chris Beecham on LinkedInNatalie Micale on LinkedInCheck out our podcast website here 

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Welcome to The Unscripted Climb. This is the podcast where business gets real and the filters get left at the door.Hosted by Chris Beecham, a no-fluff entrepreneur who’s sold plasma to keep the lights on, and Natalie Micale, a branding expert who’s built more than her fair share of empires from scratch. We’re here to talk about what actually happens behind the highlight reels.This isn’t your manifest your best life show. This is for the founders, leaders, and business owners who’ve white-knuckled their way through growth, failure, reinvention, and maybe a public meltdown or two.Why Listen?Because behind every shiny brand is a messy middle. We ask the questions most podcasts won’tWhat was your biggest screw-upHow close were you to quittingAnd what kept you from walking awayWhat You’ll Hear:• Wild origin stories • Marketing disasters and comebacks • Real-talk sales advice • Team

HOSTED BY

Chris Beecham and Natalie Micale

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