Unlocking Moves

The Leap That Changed Nate Boyer’s LifeJoin us this week on Unlocking Moves, the show that dives into the pivotal moments in a leader’s journey that unlock their true potential. Many leaders love to tell their “glory” stories, but host Kurt Wilkin believes we learn more from the “gory” stories. On this special episode, Kurt sits down with Nate Boyer, former Humanitarian, Green Beret, Texas Longhorn, Seattle Seahawk, filmmaker, life long adventurer, and co-founder of Merging Vets and Players.Many people know Nate’s story through the uniforms. The military. The Texas Longhorns. The NFL. But before all of that, Nate was searching for purpose. He worked odd jobs, spent time on fishing boats, chased different paths, and wondered where he truly fit. That search eventually led him to Darfur, where he volunteered in refugee camps during one of the region’s most difficult periods.For Nate, Darfur became the unlocking move. It was the first time he truly stepped outside of his comfort zone, refused to take no for an answer, and learned what can happen when you show up with the right intentions. That decision changed how he saw service, patriotism, purpose, and his own potential.Kurt and Nate chat about why he keeps choosing the hardest path, from becoming a Green Beret to walking on at Texas without ever having playing high school football to earning a shot with the Seattle Seahawks. Nate opens up about fear, identity, failure, and why he often chases the thing that scares him most.The conversation also touches on his role in the Colin Kaepernick kneeling conversation, the need for real dialogue in a divided country, his work with Merging Vets and Players, and his film projects focused on veterans, athletes, and life after the uniform.This episode is about more than football, service, or patriotism. It’s about finding purpose by taking the step you don’t feel you're ready for yet.About Nate BoyerNate Boyer is a former active-duty Green Beret, former Texas Longhorn football player, former Seattle Seahawk, filmmaker, actor, philanthropist, and co-founder of Merging Vets and Players. After serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, Nate walked on to the University of Texas football team despite never playing organized football before college, then later earned an opportunity with the Seattle Seahawks. Today, through MVP and his film work, he helps tell stories about service, transition, purpose, and life after the uniform.About Kurt WilkinKurt is a connector of dots, ideas, and people. For over 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career at Ernst & Young and today serving as the Founder of BusinessEarth and the Managing Partner of Bee Cave Capital. He’s a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies.Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unlocking-movesSpotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/unlockingmoves

From T-Shirts and Memes to Texas Country Reporter: J.B. Sauceda’s JourneyKurt Wilkin's Unlocking Moves explores pivotal moments in leaders' journeys that changed the trajectories of their lives and careers. In this episode, he visits with J.B. Sauceda, the host and executive producer of *Texas Country Reporter*. Their conversation covers storytelling, entrepreneurship, and overcoming burnout.J.B. began his career as a freelance photographer and designer, which led to a Texas-themed T-shirt business and, eventually, Sauceda Industries, a logistics firm that grew from his garage to over 100 employees before its acquisition in 2021. He candidly shares the burnout he experienced and the humility it took to step back and rethink his family life.An unexpected opportunity arose when J.B. was invited to take over *Texas Country Reporter* from the legendary Bob Phillips. He reflects on the excitement and pressure of stepping into this iconic role and his mission to revive the show's personal storytelling roots.Kurt and J.B. also discuss the power of storytelling in Texas and how ordinary people can bring families together. This episode serves as a reminder that sometimes the best moves happen when you just get out of your own way.About J.B. SaucedaJ.B. is the executive producer and host of Texas Country Reporter, a show highlighting the people and traditions of Texas. He has contributed to Texas Monthly and previously founded Sauceda Industries.About Kurt WilkinKurt has over 30 years of experience advising high-growth companies and is a founder of BusinessEarth and Managing Partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a seasoned entrepreneur who has successfully guided many CEOs and entrepreneurs.Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unlocking-movesSpotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/unlockingmoves#UnlockingMoves #JBSauceda #TexasCountryReporter #Entrepreneurship #Storytelling

From Supergoop! to WaterOuai!: Holly Thaggard’s Next Category-Defining MoveJoin us this week on Unlocking Moves as host Kurt Wilkin explores pivotal moments in leadership. In this episode, he talks to Holly Thaggard, founder of Supergoop! and co-founder of WaterOuai!, about reinvention and category creation.Before revolutionizing the sunscreen industry, Holly was a third-grade teacher and professional harpist. She shares lessons learned from her early experiences, including a classroom project that resulted in 24 dead goldfish and a failed trash bag business. These challenges taught her vital skills in problem-solving and resilience.The conversation dives into the Supergoop! story, highlighting how a friend’s skin cancer diagnosis inspired her to make SPF fun and accessible. Despite skepticism about the brand name, she built the business through retail and later advocated for policy changes to introduce sunscreen in schools.Now, Holly is tackling the water industry with WaterOuai!, a premium canned water brand co-created with her son Will. They aim to change consumer behavior regarding bottled water and hydration.This episode offers key lessons for entrepreneurs about knowing when to bring in the right people, identifying your strengths, and taking bold steps in your career. About Holly ThaggardHolly is the founder of Supergoop!, a pioneering SPF brand that emphasizes education and daily sun protection. Following nearly 20 years with Supergoop!, she is now focused on WaterOuai!, created to shift perceptions about bottled water.About Kurt WilkinKurt is a connector of dots, ideas, and people. For over 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young and today serving as Founder of BusinessEarth and Managing Partner of Bee Cave Capital. He’s a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies.#UnlockingMoves #HollyThaggard #Supergoop #WaterOuai #Entrepreneurship #FounderStory #CategoryCreation #ConsumerBrands #WomenEntrepreneurs #BrandBuilding

From ACL Injury to La Ola Pop Shop: How Paulina and Julian Hernandez Bet on ThemselvesJoin us this week on *Unlocking Moves*, where host Kurt Wilkin explores the pivotal moments that reveal a leader's true potential. In this episode, Kurt interviews Paulina and Julian Hernandez, co-founders of La Ola Pop Shop They share their journey through risk, resilience, and building a business that reflects their culture and community.Before La Ola Pop Shop became a beloved dessert brand in Kyle, Texas, Julian was recovering from a serious ACL and MCL injury, prompting him to rethink his future as a Sheriff's Deputy. Paulina was working part-time at Costco while caring for their young son. Together, they chose to take the leap into entrepreneurship.Kurt, Paulina, and Julian share insights from their early days, including the challenges of starting a business as a married couple. Paulina highlights how her intuition guided key decisions, while Julian discusses his drive to move quickly and dream big. A major turning point occurred when they upgraded from a small 800-square-foot shop to a much larger location, transforming their business.The discussion also touches on identity and heritage, with Paulina reflecting on her family's entrepreneurial background and Julian sharing his mission to inspire others. They offer valuable lessons on balancing ambition with patience and fostering a meaningful partnership in both business and life.If you've ever dreamed of starting a business with your spouse or creating a brand that reflects your true self, this episode is for you.About Paulina and Julian HernandezPaulina and Julian Hernandez are the co-founders of La Ola Pop Shop, a fast-growing paleta and dessert brand based in Kyle, Texas. Inspired by their Mexican and American heritage, they've built La Ola Pop Shop into a beloved community-driven business known for creative flavors, culture, and connection.About Kurt WilkinKurt is a connector of dots, ideas, and people. For over 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career at Ernst & Young and today serving as the Founder of BusinessEarth and the Managing Partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies.Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unlocking-movesSpotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/unlockingmoves

The Moment Sam Goodner Realized HE Was the BottleneckJoin us this week on Unlocking Moves, the show that dives into the pivotal moments in a leader’s journey that unlock their true potential. Many leaders love to tell their “glory” stories, but host Kurt Wilkin believes we learn more from the “gory” ones. On this episode, Kurt sits down with Sam Goodner, entrepreneur, author of Like Clockwork, and former CEO of Catapult Systems, for a conversation about growth, control, and the hardest realization a founder can face.Sam’s journey didn’t start in Texas. He grew up in Switzerland, served in the Swiss Army, and made the leap to Texas A&M, a move that completely changed his life. That path eventually led him to co-found Catapult Systems and grow it into a successful business. But as the company grew, so did the pressure, and the cracks started to show.Eventually, Sam had a realization that many founders conveniently ignore: he was the bottleneck. The same drive and control that helped build the company were now holding it back. That moment forced him to rethink everything, from leadership style to decision-making, and what it truly takes to scale a business beyond yourself.After exiting the company, Sam made another bold move. He and his family stepped away from everything and traveled around the world for 13 months. That time created space to reflect, reset, and redefine success. It also led to writing Like Clockwork and stepping into a new role helping other leaders build businesses that run without them.Kurt and Sam dig into what it truly means to let go, why most founders struggle to transition from operator to leader, and how building systems is the only way to create true freedom. They also discuss his current coaching work, and why so many leaders stay stuck longer than they should.If you’re building a company, leading a team, or feeling like everything still depends on you, this episode is a reminder that the biggest unlocking move might be getting out of your own way.About Sam GoodnerSam Goodner is an entrepreneur, author of Like Clockwork, and former CEO of Catapult Systems, a company he helped grow and successfully exit. Originally from Switzerland, he served in the Swiss Army before moving to the U.S. to attend Texas A&M. Today, he works as an executive coach, helping leaders build businesses that scale beyond themselves.About Kurt WilkinKurt is a connector of dots, ideas, and people. For over 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young and today serving as Founder of BusinessEarth and Managing Partner of Bee Cave Capital. He’s a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies.Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unlocking-movesSpotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/unlockingmoves

He Essentially Tackled the Keynote Speaker…a Moment that Changed His Entire LifeJoin us this week on Unlocking Moves, the show that dives into the pivotal moments in a leader’s journey that unlock their true potential. Many leaders love to tell their “glory” stories, but host Kurt Wilkin believes we learn more from the “gory” ones. On this episode, Kurt sits down with Geoff Woods, author of The AI-Driven Leader and Founder of AI Leadership, for a conversation about bold moves, big thinking, and stepping into your full potential.Geoff’s journey didn’t start at the top. Early in his career, he focused on one simple question: What skills can I build that will make me valuable anywhere? That mindset led him into sales and bigger opportunities, but something still felt off. Sitting at a conference in Lake Tahoe, Geoff realized he was playing small. While everyone else stayed seated, he made a different choice. He got up, chased down Jay Papasan after a talk, and started a conversation that would completely change the direction of his life.That one moment opened the door to working alongside some of the highest-level thinkers in business and reshaped how Geoff approached leadership. He shares why great leaders don’t give answers, they ask better questions, and why creating space to think is one of the most valuable skills in today’s fast-moving world.The conversation also dives into Geoff’s perspective on AI and leadership. He explains why AI is not an advantage in itself, but how you use it can completely change your effectiveness as a leader. From improving decision-making to multiplying your time, Geoff breaks down what it really means to lead in an AI-driven world.If you’ve ever felt like you’re capable of more but haven’t yet made the move, this episode is a reminder that one bold decision can change everything.About Geoff WoodsGeoff Woods is the author of The AI-Driven Leader and Founder of AI Leadership. He helps leaders think bigger, execute with focus, and leverage AI to drive better decisions and results.About KurtWilkinKurt is a connector of dots, ideas, and people. For over 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young and today serving as Founder of BusinessEarth and Managing Partner of Bee Cave Capital. He’s a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies.Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unlocking-movesSpotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/unlockingmoves#UnlockingMoves #Leadership #AI #Entrepreneurship #TheOneThing #BusinessGrowth #Execution #Strategy #Productivity #GeoffWoods

What happens when your identity is suddenly taken away… and you're forced to start over?Join us for this week's episode of Unlocking Moves, the show that dives into the pivotal moments in a leader's journey that unlock their true potential. Most leaders love to share their "glory" stories but host Kurt Wilkin believes we learn more from the "gory" ones.On this episode, Kurt sits down with Patti Boyle, one of the most sought-after executive coaches in Texas and founder of Pure Potential Consulting, for a powerful conversation about career transitions, purpose, and what really happens when high-performing leaders leave their jobs.Patti shares raw, real stories from decades of working with executives: from CEOs and CFOs to top performers navigating layoffs, burnout, and identity loss. She explains why losing a job doesn't just impact income but it shakes your identity, your community, and your sense of purpose.One of the most powerful themes in this episode: things don't happen to you -- they happen FOR YOU.From having a gun pulled on her in a classroom early in her career, to building and selling a company with 33 locations, Patti's journey is filled with transformational moments that shaped her mission to help others discover (or rediscover) their purpose.You'll also learn:Why networking is NOT "take, take, take" but it's also it's "give, give, give"How most jobs are actually found (and why LinkedIn alone won't cut it)What to do first after losing your job (hint: it's not your resume)The dangerous "messy middle" of transition, and how to navigate itHow to turn setbacks into reinvention opportunitiesWhether you're in transition, feeling stuck, or simply asking "what's next?", this episode is packed with practical advice and perspectives you can use immediately.About Patti BoylePatti Boyle is the founder of Pure Potential Consulting and an executive coach with over 27 years of experience helping leaders navigate career transitions and discover their purpose. She previously built a training and development company that grew to 33 offices before being acquired by Adecco / Lee Hecht Harrison. She is also the author of Thrive with Purpose.About Kurt WilkinKurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For over 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young and today serving as Founder of BusinessEarth and Managing Partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies.🎧 Listen on your favorite platform:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unlocking-movesSpotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/unlockingmoves

From ROTC to the Army, to SEC basketball coach, to Razorback Radio: Matt Zimmerman’s Unlikely Coaching JourneyJoin us on this special March Madness edition of Unlocking Moves, the show that dives into the pivotal moments in a leader’s journey that unlock real potential. Many leaders love to tell their “glory” stories, but host Kurt Wilkin believes we learn more from the “gory” stories. On this episode, Kurt sits down with Matt Zimmerman (Coach Z) to discuss service, sacrifice, basketball, and the unexpected turns that shape a career.Matt’s story starts in rural Arkansas, but it was shaped early by a military family. His father served in both Korea and Vietnam, and that foundation of discipline and duty stayed with him. Matt grew up loving basketball, worked as a student manager at Arkansas under Hall of Famer Nolan Richardson, and thought he might stay around the Razorbacks after college. Instead, an ROTC scholarship led him into five years of active duty in the Army, including long stretches away from the game he loved. From there, he returned to Arkansas and built a meaningful career as a high school coach, finding purpose in mentoring young players and building lasting relationships.This episode is packed with lessons on loyalty, leadership, reinvention, and why some of the best moves in life begin with a call you never expected. If you've ever wondered how one opportunity can completely redirect your path, Coach Z's story is a reminder to stay ready, stay humble, and trust where the next move might lead.About Coach Z - Matt ZimmermanMatt Zimmerman is a longtime basketball coach, broadcaster, and Razorback insider. He served five years on active duty in the U.S. Army, coached high school basketball in Arkansas, and later joined Mike Anderson’s staffs at UAB, Missouri, and Arkansas. Today, he is a co-host of The Razorback Daily and a color commentator for Razorback basketball broadcasts.About Kurt WilkinKurt is a connector of dots, ideas, and people. For over 30 years, he's advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young and today serving as Founder of BusinessEarth and Managing Partner of Bee Cave Capital. He’s a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and leaders build their companies.Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unlocking-movesSpotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/unlockingmoves#UnlockingMoves #Leadership #CollegeBasketball #Razorbacks #Coaching #MilitaryLeadership #Arkansas #MikeAnderson #NolanRichardson

From Accenture to Tortillas: Rocío León's Leap Into Purpose-Driven EntrepreneurshipJoin us this week on Unlocking Moves, the show that dives into the pivotal moments in a leader's journey that unlocked their true potential. Many leaders love to share their "glory" stories, but host Kurt Wilkin believes we learn more from the "gory" ones. In this episode, Kurt sits down with Rocío León, or Rocí, an entrepreneur who walked away from a successful consulting career at Accenture to build a purpose-driven food company rooted in culture, health, and heritage.Rocí's journey begins in Jalisco, Mexico, where childhood memories of making tortillas with her abuela planted the seeds for something bigger. After an 11-year career advising Fortune 500 companies worldwide, Roci felt a growing pull toward entrepreneurship. But leaving a stable, high-income consulting job was not an easy decision. She shares the moment she stepped away from corporate life, the intentional pause she took to reconnect with her passions, and the realization that she wanted to build something meaningful.What started as experimenting in her kitchen turned into a brand built around blue corn tortillas made with amaranth, an ancient grain used by Aztec civilizations that adds protein, fiber, and natural binding without additives. Rocí and her co-founder began selling at farmers' markets, listening closely to customer feedback, and refining their products.Then came the breakthrough: Roci and her team entered and won the H-E-B's "Quest for Texas Best" accelerator contest. Months later, they launched in 21 stores across Austin! The experience validated her belief that purpose, culture, and quality ingredients could resonate with modern consumers.Kurt and Rocí also discussed imposter syndrome, building a brand from scratch, and why entrepreneurs often need to step back from the noise of corporate life to discover what they truly want to create.If you've ever considered leaving a comfortable career to pursue something more meaningful, Rocí's story is a powerful reminder that the biggest unlocking moves often start with a leap of faith.About Rocío LeónRocí León is an entrepreneur and former Accenture consultant who founded a purpose-driven tortilla brand inspired by her Mexican heritage. Her company focuses on healthier corn tortillas made with blue corn and amaranth, combining ancient ingredients with modern nutrition. Rocí's products gained early traction at farmers' markets and quickly expanded into retail after winning a competitive H-E-B brand accelerator program.About Kurt WilkinKurt is a connector of dots, ideas, and people. For over 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young and today serving as Founder of BusinessEarth and Managing Partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies.Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unlocking-movesSpotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/unlocking-moves#UnlockingMoves #Entrepreneurship #CPG #StartupStory #HispanicEntrepreneurs #FoodStartup #ConsumerBrands #Leadership #BusinessJourney

Ramon Ray started fixing computers and blogging on the side while working at the United Nations. The side hustle got him fired—and that's the plot twist that turned him into a keynote speaker, author, and founder of SmallBizTechnology.com ('99) and Smart Hustle Media. Today, he helps brands and small businesses level up with personal branding and practical growth playbooks. -----------FULL EPISODE HERE:https://open.spotify.com/episode/0VIv8eDal57wbb9aLNYC48?si=2d2bff26e3ee49ba⁠⁠#UnlockingMoves⁠

“Don’t F With Me”: The Moment Mark C. Winters Walked Away and Bet on HimselfJoin us on this special episode of Unlocking Moves, the show that dives into the pivotal moments in a leader’s journey that unlock real potential. This conversation came together quickly, and because of that, it’s raw, unfiltered, and honest in the best way. Many leaders love to tell their “glory” stories, but host Kurt Wilkin believes the real lessons live in the “gory” ones. This episode delivers exactly that as Kurt sits down with Mark C. Winters, co-author of Rocket Fuel and author of the newly released book Visionary.Mark takes us back to a defining moment early in his career at Procter & Gamble, when a single conversation with his boss shattered the perfectly mapped path to becoming CEO. That moment sparked what he calls his “entrepreneurial seizure”, the realization that he could not live in a world where someone else controlled his future. With a pregnant wife at home and no severance package, Mark quit anyway. What followed was a crash course in entrepreneurship, sleepless nights, financial pressure, and lessons that would shape his later thinking on visionaries, integrators, and leadership at scale.The conversation goes deep into what it really takes to be an entrepreneur. Mark breaks down the emotional toll, the isolation, and the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people. He shares why entrepreneurs are uniquely positioned to solve the world’s biggest problems, why capitalism only works when it is sustainable, and why entrepreneurship is not for everyone.Kurt and Mark also unpack the ideas behind Visionary, including the ten pillars of great visionary leadership, the need for self-awareness, and how defining your version of freedom changes the way you build companies.If you're an entrepreneur, a visionary, or someone questioning whether to take the leap, this episode is a raw, honest look at the cost, the upside, and the responsibility that comes with building something that matters.About Mark WintersMark C. Winters is the co-author of Rocket Fuel and the author of Visionary. He is a longtime EOS expert, entrepreneur, and advisor who has started, acquired, and exited more than a dozen companies. Mark is known for his work helping visionary and integrator leaders operate at their best and build businesses that align with their personal definition of freedom.About Kurt WilkinKurt is a connector of dots, ideas, and people. For over 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young and today serving as Founder of BusinessEarth and Managing Partner of Bee Cave Capital. He’s a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies.Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unlocking-movesSpotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/unlocking-moves#UnlockingMoves #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #Visionary #RocketFuel #EOS #FounderJourney #BusinessGrowth #GoryStories

She left a 20-year career in finance to run EOS Worldwide.Most people hear "EOS" and think Visionaries. Kelly Knight built her career in the other seat. After two decades in financial services, she stepped into the Integrator role at EOS Worldwide, then became President, the person who actually makes Gino Wickman's system run.About Kurt WilkinKurt Wilkin is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For the past 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as co-founder and visionary of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He is a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies. -----------FULL EPISODE HERE: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1ovPdYNexNaT9IruDIxLzn?si=33498d7a7b314227⁠#UnlockingMoves⁠

"I almost refused to be CEO."In 2013, Autumn Manning was building a tech company in Arkansas, where there weren't many women leading startups. Instead of waiting for a model, she became one. She co-founded YouEarnedIt (later Kazoo/WorkTango), moved it to Austin to scale, and led it as CEO, even though, by her own words, her path there was "twisty, turvy" and she had to burn the old playbook to get there. That's the kind of transition we're spotlighting: not job-hopping, redefining what leadership can look like.About Kurt Wilkin Kurt Wilkin is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For the past 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as co-founder and visionary of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He is a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies. -----------FULL INTERVIEW HERE: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4py8eiU2v9x9UcHn9tCrxH?si=c0a6d3b028104d91⁠#UnlockingMoves⁠ ⁠

FROM DELL TO HOT SAUCE ON “HOT ONES.” 🌶️Listen to the Full Episode here: https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/jtPjLYrHfYbIn this episode, Kurt sits down with @josuerivas, a Peruvian immigrant who walked out of a stable systems engineering job at Dell to chase food. He literally left the office and went straight to culinary school then built restaurants, lost it all, and had to start over taking prep-cook gigs in Portland just to get back in the kitchen.Josue didn’t quit. He later launched @savirfoods the chef-crafted hot sauce brand out of Austin that’s been featured on @hotones.This is why we’re posting these: career change isn’t always “I pivoted from marketing to product.” Sometimes it’s engineer → chef → broke → founder… and it still works!Unlock the full story here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nOsi7d6yetA&t=2416scareer transition, immigrant founder story, Dell to culinary school, Savir Foods, Hot Ones feature, food entrepreneur, real second chances, restaurant to CPG, unlocking moves podcastAbout Kurt Wilkin Kurt Wilkin is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For the past 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as co-founder and visionary of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He is a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies. -----------Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unlocking-moves/id1683361653Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kurt-wilkin#UnlockingMoves #HireBetter

The Power of Pause: Why Every Leader Needs a SabbaticalJoin us for this week’s episode of Unlocking Moves, the show that dives into the pivotal moments in a leader’s journey that unlock real potential. Many leaders only want to share their “glory” stories, but host Kurt Wilkin believes we learn more from the “gory” ones. This week’s guest, Mike Aviles, proves that sometimes the boldest move a leader can make is simply stepping away.Mike Aviles is a hired-gun CEO known for steering major turnarounds and successful exits with companies like Foster Grant and Vignette. But perhaps his most profound decisions weren’t about strategy or profit, they were his 3 one-year-long sabbaticals. In this powerful conversation, Mike and Kurt break down how taking intentional time off helped him rediscover purpose, strengthen his marriage, and become a better leader. Mike shares lessons from growing up in Brooklyn with an alcoholic father, moving on to a small local college and his journey to KPMG, earning a Stanford MBA, and later learning how to slow down after years of chaos in private equity and tech.Mike opens up about what he calls “psychological detox”. Unlearning the identity of being a CEO, and how faith, travel, and reflection gave him a new sense of self. He explains how each sabbatical made him more grounded, self-aware, and connected, ultimately shaping the kind of leader he wanted to be. For anyone wrestling with burnout, identity, or the fear of slowing down, this episode will challenge how you define success and remind you that stepping back might be your next unlocking move.About Mike AvilesMike Aviles is a veteran CEO with multiple private equity-backed turnarounds and exits, including Foster Grant, Activant Solutions, and Vignette. A Stanford MBA and former KPMG professional, Mike is known for balancing high-performance leadership with introspection and personal growth.About Kurt WilkinKurt is a connector of dots, ideas, and people. For over 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young and today serving as Founder of BusinessEarth and Managing Partner of Bee Cave Capital. He’s a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies.Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unlocking-movesSpotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/unlocking-moves#UnlockingMoves #HireBetter #Leadership #Sabbatical #Entrepreneurship #GrowthMindset #SelfDiscovery #Burnout #WorkLifeBalance #Purpose

How did Poppi go from the Dallas Farmer's Market to selling at a value of $1.95 BILLION in five years?Unlocking Moves dives into the pivotal moments in an entrepreneur's journey that unlocked their true potential. Many leaders only like to talk about their success stories - but host Kurt Wilkin is a firm believer that we learn more from our stumbles and mistakes. On this episode, Kurt chats with Allison and Stephen Ellsworth, founders of Poppi - the world's fastest growing soda brand that is better for you and tastes GREAT. From humble beginnings operating at a weekend farmer's market booth as a side gig, to open tryouts for Shark Tank, to becoming one of the fastest growing beverage companies in human history - Allison and Stephen have experienced countless ups and downs along the way. In this deep dive behind the scenes, they discuss the grit and entrepreneurial spirit required to grow a business, the process behind Shark Tank, and being "digital first" by building a community of raving fans...Oh, and they did all of this while raising a family! About Allison and Stephen Ellsworth, Co-Founders of Poppi - Allison is the Chief Brand Officer, and Stephen is the Chief Product Officer. Poppi is a delicious, prebiotic, better-for-you soda made with clean ingredients. Struggling with a variety of health issues, Allison created Poppi after discovering the health benefits of apple cider vinegar and experimenting in her kitchen to make it taste great. She leads the Austin-based beverage company's overall brand strategy and innovation. She pioneered the brand's cultural cache and digital-first approach, attracting a loyal community and billions of views on TikTok and Instagram. Stephen leads the company's product development and innovation.About Kurt Wilkin – Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For the past 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies.

From Rock Bottom to Redemption: John Flynn’s Billion-Dollar ComebackJoin us this week on Unlocking Moves, the show that dives into the pivotal moments in a leader’s journey that unlocks their potential. Most people only talk about their “glory” stories, but host Kurt Wilkin believes we learn more from the “gory” stories. This episode delivers both as Kurt sits down with John Flynn — co-founder and former CEO of Open Lending — whose journey from addiction and loss to building a $4 billion company is nothing short of extraordinary.John opens up about growing up in a blue-collar family, working in steel mills to pay for college, and finding early success in the credit union world. But his ambition masked a destructive secret: alcoholism. After multiple DUIs, a failed marriage, and a near-fatal crash, John hit rock bottom and checked himself into treatment — a decision that changed his life forever. Thirty-four years sober, he credits faith and service as the foundation of his comeback. From that turning point, John went on to co-found Open Lending, helping thousands of borrowers secure fair and affordable auto loans while growing one of the most successful fintech companies in the world.This conversation explores redemption, resilience, and purpose. John shares how faith gave him strength after the loss of his daughter, how mentorship and second chances shaped his leadership, and why he now dedicates his life to helping others recover through his women’s treatment center, Hammocks on the Edisto. His story proves that the greatest comebacks often start at the lowest points — and that true success is measured not by wealth, but by lives changed.About John Flynn - John Flynn is the co-founder and former CEO of Open Lending, a financial technology company that reached a $4 billion market cap. A lifelong advocate for addiction recovery, he co-founded Hammocks on the Edisto, a women’s treatment center in South Carolina. John has been sober for 34 years and continues to mentor others on their journey to recovery and leadership.About Kurt Wilkin - Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For over 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young and today serving as Founder of BusinessEarth and Managing Partner of Bee Cave Capital. He’s a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies.Listen now: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unlocking-moves Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/unlockingmoves

Join us this week on Unlocking Moves, as host Kurt Wilkin dives into the pivotal moments in a leader’s journey that unlock their success. Most people only talk about their successes, their "glory" stories, but Kurt knows we learn more from the "gory" stories. This episode delivers both as he sits down with Kyle McGee, the founder and CEO of Sunchase Companies, for a gritty, hopeful look at turning setbacks into success.Kyle’s journey begins with hard labor and even harder lessons. He grew up watching the hard work of his father, a contractor, and his grandfather, a mason, learning the trades from the ground up. Inspired, he started his own landscaping business at 16 to have enough money to party... but a DUI at 21 nearly derailed his future. He returned home and set his sights on real estate and a partnership with his father. Then his world shattered when his father was diagnosed with terminal cancer and passed away, a loss that shook Kyle to his core, but ultimately steeled his resolve. In the midst of personal hardship, a couple took a chance and hired Kyle to build their waterfront home. Kyle seized the opportunity, cutting his teeth on, until a 14-unit apartment acquisition forever changed his mindset about scaling his business. A lifelong learner, Kyle firmly believes in the mantra "Knowledge is NOT power - applied knowledge is power." After observing his father's backbreaking work "IN" the contractor business, Kyle read everything he could about leadership and working ON the business. Ultimately, he built Sunchase Companies, leveraging the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), bringing discipline to his growing business. Today, with over 300 "doors" in his portfolio, Kyle shares how he built a real estate investment empire from the ashes of adversity.This conversation digs into the values and strategies behind the numbers. Kyle opens up about his faith that keeps him grounded and the mentors who guided him along the way. He explains how embracing EOS helped him scale with intention rather than ego, and why staying fiercely loyal to his subcontractors and trade partners became one of his smartest moves. Whether you’re a young leader recovering from early mistakes or an entrepreneur looking to grow your company on solid foundations, Kyle’s story is a masterclass in grit, grace, and strategic growth. You’ll be inspired to turn your own setbacks into opportunities for growth.About Kyle McGee - Kyle McGee is the founder and CEO of Sunchase Companies, a real estate development and investment firm based in Florida. He founded Sunchase in 2017 and has since developed a portfolio of over 300 multifamily units, along with multiple commercial projects. Named one of Pro Builder’s Forty Under 40 in 2024, Kyle is also a licensed general contractor who’s passionate about building communities and guiding others on their entrepreneurial journeys.About Kurt Wilkin - Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For over 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young and today serving as Founder of BusinessEarth and Managing Partner of Bee Cave Capital. He’s a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies.Listen now: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unlocking-moves Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/unlockingmoves#UnlockingMoves #HireBetter #RealEstateInvesting #Legacy #Construction #Entrepreneurship #Mentorship #Faith #SecondChances

As an entrepreneur, how can you focus on your health while leading a high-growth company? Dr. Tracy Gapin has answers!Join us this week on Unlocking Moves, the show that dives into the pivotal moments in a leader’s journey that unlock real potential. Most people only talk about their successes, their "glory" stories, but host Kurt Wilkin believes we learn more from the "gory" stories. This episode delivers both.Kurt sits down with Dr. Tracy Gapin, a board-certified urologist with 25 years of experience as a men’s health & performance expert who left a seven-figure practice to build a new model for men’s health, longevity, and peak performance. He explains why our “diagnosis equals drug” system fails high achievers, and how to fix your health with testing, data, and daily habits. You’ll hear the exact labs he recommends (ApoB, Lp(a), free testosterone, free T3, vitamin D), how to track sleep quality and HRV, and why glucose monitors aren’t just for diabetics. "Doc Tracy" also breaks down epigenetics in plain English, the truth about endocrine disruptors in water and plastics, and a simple filter-first approach for your home. Most important, he shares the mindset shift that saved his career and health, starting with better sleep and clear boundaries at home.If you’re a founder or leader who wants more energy, sharper focus, and a better quality of life to share with your loved ones, this conversation is a playbook you can use today.About Dr. Tracy Gapin: Dr. Gapin is the founder of the Gapin Institute for Precision Medicine. After 25 years in urology, he now helps leaders optimize health and performance through precision testing, personalized protocols, and measurable results. He's the author of Male 2.0 and a frequent speaker on longevity, hormones, and behavior change.About Kurt Wilkin: Kurt is a connector of dots, ideas, and people. Over 30 years advising high-growth companies, from Ernst & Young to chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital, he has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build and scale their businesses.Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unlocking-moves Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/unlockingmoves#UnlockingMoves #MensHealth #Longevity #PeakPerformance #ApoB #Testosterone #HRV #CGM #SleepOptimization

She sells 15,000 Books a Month?!? And she's only 23?!? Tune in for Lexi Kaz’s BlueprintThis week on Unlocking Moves, host Kurt Wilkin sits down with Lexi Kaz, the 23-year-old powerhouse behind You Will Rock books.Lexi’s journey hasn't followed the typical playbook. At the height of the pandemic, she walked away from her dream of playing professional soccer (not to mention a Division I soccer scholarship) to spend a gap year farming and camping across Hawaii. Looking for her next move, she signed up for a $100 online course that introduced her to Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing model. She wrote her first book - "You Will Rock as a Dad" - to fill a gap in the market. When that book took off, she knew she had identified a repeatable system—and today, she’s published over a dozen giftable guides that actually help families.We cover how Lexi scaled from one book to 15,000 copies a month through relentless research, customer feedback, and a creator-led growth engine. She breaks down the power of TikTok Shop, why micro-creators often outperform big influencers, and how she now works with 5,000 affiliates. Plus, we get into mindset, dealing with copycats, and the reminder she leans on when outcomes fall short: “Success comes from within.”If you’re weighing a pivot, launching your first product, or chasing your next growth lever, Lexi’s story is a blueprint for building with grit, feedback, and community.About Lexi Kaz - Lexi is a publisher, marketer, and founder of You Will Rock books. She has authored or published 18 titles, including several bestsellers, and built a fast-growing creator affiliate network across TikTok and Amazon.About Kurt Wilkin - Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For over 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies. 🎧 Listen now: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unlocking-moves Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/unlockingmoves#UnlockingMoves #HireBetter #SelfPublishing #KDP #TikTokShop #AffiliateMarketing #WomenInBusiness #Entrepreneurship #CreatorEconomy

How Asking for Help Changes Everything: Nate Thomas's Transformative JourneyJoin us this week on Unlocking Moves as host Kurt Wilkin visits with Nate Thomas, founder of the innovative mental health app: Shmoody. Nate's journey is raw, authentic, and packed with powerful lessons from his personal battle with addiction to his path toward recovery and entrepreneurship.In this deeply honest conversation, Nate openly shares how addiction nearly destroyed his life, leaving him unemployable, isolated, and he ultimately hit rock bottom. Nate shares his humble restart as a Starbucks employee, the powerful moment of surrender that changed everything, and how learning to ask for help became his superpower.Nate reveals how humor, humility, and human connection became pillars in his recovery, ultimately driving him to co-create Shmoody, a mental health app that resonates deeply with Gen Z and millennials because it's designed by people who genuinely understand their mental health struggles and ways to keep them engaged and motivated. The episode also explores Nate's bold career shifts, from practicing law to comedy sketch writing at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theater, and finally to finding meaningful success in entrepreneurship.Packed with wisdom, laughter, and courage, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who's ever struggled with setbacks, questioned their worth, or needed a powerful reminder about asking for help.About Nate Thomas: Nate Thomas is Co-Founder and CEO of Shmoody, a mental health and wellness app with nearly two million downloads. His unconventional journey includes degrees from Duke and WashU, a career at Goldman Sachs, and personal triumph over addiction. Each step has fueled his mission to make mental health tools accessible, engaging, and stigma-free.About Kurt Wilkin - Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For over 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies. Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unlocking-moves Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/unlockingmoves#UnlockingMoves #HireBetter #MentalHealth #RecoveryJourney #Entrepreneurship #Shmoody #AddictionRecovery #Wellbeing #AskingForHelp (00:00:00) Early Sobriety & Service — From Starbucks to Recovery Community(00:02:33) Improv at UCB — Building Confidence, Communication, and Humor(00:08:13) What Makes Shmoody Different — A Fun, Engaging Mental Health App(00:12:14) Universities & Impact — Pilots, Data, and Multi‑Year Partnerships(00:25:24) Rock Bottom to Surrender — The Turning Point in 2013(00:35:32) Asking for Help Is a Superpower — Courage, Ego, and Real Support(00:48:06) Unlocking Moves — Mentorship, Accelerator Lessons & Testing Growth(01:02:24) Life Without Social Media — Why Nate Opts Out (Connect via LinkedIn)(01:06:30) Do You Wanna Know Who's Your Mike? Take the Quiz Here

From Crisis to Comeback: How Patrick Wright (and his team) Pivoted AdvoCare Against All OddsWhat do you do when years of hard work finally pays off and you're promoted to CEO, only to have your company's business model ripped to shreds TWO DAYS into your new job?!?!That’s exactly what happened to Patrick Wright, former CEO of AdvoCare. In this week’s episode of Unlocking Moves, Kurt Wilkin sits down with Patrick for a raw, behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to lead through chaos.On his SECOND day as CEO, Patrick was hit with a bombshell: the Federal Trade Commission ruled that AdvoCare’s business model had to go. Patrick and his AdvoCare team was given 60 days to completely overhaul their sales strategy from muli-level-marketing to direct-to-consumer -- or risk losing everything!From making gut-wrenching announcements to long-time distributors and employees, to building a new direct-to-consumer strategy under extreme pressure, Patrick shares how he leaned on authenticity, quick decision-making, and a clear vision to lead through it all.You’ll hear the real story behind the pivot: the sleepless nights, the tough calls, and the bold bets that helped keep the business—and hundreds of jobs—alive. Whether you’re a founder facing change or a leader managing through uncertainty, this episode is packed with lessons you can use right now!About Patrick Wright - Patrick is an accomplished CEO with over two decades of expertise in B2C marketing and sales management, and e-commerce. He specializes in organizational restructuring and business transformation, and his behind-the-scenes stories about AdvoCare's pivot read like an HBR case study.About Kurt Wilkin - Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For over 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies. 🎧 Unlock the full episode on your favorite platform: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unlocking-moves Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/unlockingmoves(00:00:00) The Hardest Day of His Career: Facing the FTC(00:02:00) Meet Patrick Wright: Guitars, Growth, and Getting Creative(00:05:04) Unlocking Early Career Moves Through Initiative(00:10:37) Sponsor – Chinook Seedery: The Best Seeds Ever(00:12:46) FTC Forces a Radical Pivot at AdvoCare(00:20:17) Eliminating MLM: The 60-Day Scramble to Reinvent(00:28:00) E-Commerce Lessons and Lean Startup Execution(00:34:06) Authentic Leadership and Emotional Intelligence in Crisis(00:44:59) Do You Wanna Know Who's Your Mike? Take the Quiz Here

THE EL ARROYO SIGN STOLE MY CLEVER INTRO!Join us for this week's episode of Unlocking Moves with Clay McPhail - the restauranteur behind Austin's iconic El Arroyo Tex-Mex restaurant and its legendary roadside sign! Known for its witty, satirical, and sometimes controversial messages, the El Arroyo sign has captured the hearts and occasionally provoked the tempers of Austinites for decades. But there’s much more to Clay’s story than clever jokes and Tex-Mex!Unlocking Moves dives into the pivotal moments in a leader's journey that unlocked their true potential! Most of us only like to talk about our "glory" stories - but host Kurt Wilkin is a firm believer that we learn more from our stumbles and mistakes, our "gory" stories. In this week’s episode, Clay reveals the accidental origins of the witty (and sometimes controversial) El Arroyo sign, and how the sign became both an amazing marketing superpower AND the bane of his existence (because he and his team had to come up with clever new messages EVERY…SINGLE…DAY for over 25 years! Clay also shares his origin story - from working his way through college at Texas to creating the legendary and controversial sign and the Tex Mex brand you know and love - with many lessons learned along the way. Clay reflects on the courage required to leap into entrepreneurship and missed opportunities, and he shares the raw and unexpected power that mentorship can have on those around us. Whether you're a fan of the infamous signs, or interested in the journey of a legendary restauranteur, this episode is for you!(00:00:00) From Sandra Bullock to Elf on the Shelf – 26 Years of El Arroyo(00:01:50) The Dumbledore Sign and Viral Marketing Backlash(00:03:34) Clay’s Accidental Path from Insurance to Restaurant Empire(00:05:04) The Yellow Legal Pad Pitch That Launched El Arroyo(00:10:53) Sponsor – HireBetter: Your Strategic Talent Partner(00:11:15) Building a Legacy with Humor – The Power of the Sign(00:17:10) Why Clay Left Restaurants After 26 Years (and Came Back)(00:18:45) Launching 5280 Burger Bar in Denver and Returning to Austin(00:22:48) Unlocking Move: Bet on Yourself and Say “Yes”(00:29:45) Do You Wanna Know Who's Your Mike? Take the Quiz HereAbout Clay McPhail - Clay has over 35 years of experience in the restaurant industry. He’s the former owner, founder & CEO of El Arroyo restaurant and creator of it’s famous sign, and now the owner of 5280 Burger Bar. Clay is a legend and continues to impact lives through food, laughter, and genuine connections. About Kurt Wilkin - Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For over 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies. Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unlocking-movesSpotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/unlockingmoves#UnlockingMoves #HireBetter #ElArroyo #AustinRestaurants #Entrepreneurship #MarketingHumor #Leadership #5280BurgerBar

"Do you want to be the gambler, with the odds stacked against you... or the casino owner?"Join us for this week's episode of Unlocking Moves with Mark Zweig, author and founder of two Inc 500/5000 companies. Unlocking Moves dives into the pivotal moments in a leader's journey that unlocked their true potential! Most of us only like to talk about our "glory" stories - but host Kurt Wilkin is a firm believer that we learn more from our stumbles and mistakes, our "gory" stories. On this episode, Kurt chats with Mark Zweig, founder of the Zweig Group and Entrepreneur-in-Residence at Arkansas' Walton College of Business. Mark started his entrepreneurial journey as a 12 year old bike mechanic in the St. Louis area. He utilized many of the lessons he learned there when he founded his consulting firm for engineers and architects. In their conversation, Kurt and Mark discuss the advantages of being UNDER capitalized, the value of open-book management, how private equity takeovers can go very wrong, and how great marketing is the key to success - not sales. This episode is a blueprint for folks just starting out on their entrepreneurial journey, with a lot of incredible advice from "the best professor at Arkansas!"(00:00:00) Life’s Too Short to Stay in a Comfortable Job(00:01:19) Welcome to Unlocking Moves – Featuring Mark Zweig(00:02:06) From Consulting to High-End Home Remodeling(00:03:03) Childhood Dreams of Architecture, Realized Through Business(00:04:06) Selling His Company Twice – And Why He Did It(00:05:12) Fired, Broke, and Starting a Business from Scratch(00:07:26) Growing a Firm Focused on Architects and Engineers(00:08:48) Why Opposites Make the Best Business Partners(00:10:17) Scaling Through Systems, Direct Mail, and PR(00:11:46) The Power of Probability and Playing the Long Game(00:13:01) When Necessity Drives Your First Business Move(00:13:14) Sponsor – HireBetter: Your Strategic Talent Partner(00:14:08) Why Bootstrapping Builds Better Companies(00:15:58) Early Lessons as a Bike Mechanic at Age 12(00:18:09) From Hustling Bikes to Learning Entrepreneurship(00:20:15) Career Advice for College Grads: Show Up and Work Hard(00:22:02) Open Book Management and Culture of Ownership(00:24:19) Recovering a Business in Debt: The Turnaround Story(00:27:13) Don't Let One Complaint Stop Smart Marketing(00:28:25) Order Takers vs. Entrepreneurs – Get It Done(00:30:08) Avoiding Dependency on the Sales Superstar(00:32:22) Marketing vs. Sales – Why Positioning Wins(00:34:00) Cold Calling, Grit, and Earning Your Way Up(00:35:49) Unlocking Move: Selling the Company and Changing Everything(00:38:14) Student Projects That Actually Change Lives(00:39:02) Rave Reviews from the University of Arkansas(00:41:04) Embracing Opportunities Outside the Classroom(00:42:43) Mark’s Obsession: 400 Cars, 300 Motorcycles(00:44:01) Investing in Janus Motorcycles and American Craft(00:45:47) Wrap Up and Gratitude(00:46:23) Do You Wanna Know Who's Your Mike? Take the Quiz HereAbout Mark Zweig - Mark is an experienced entrepreneur, author of "Confessions of an Entrepreneur" and 13 other books, and founder of two Inc 500/5000 companies. He founded the Zweig Group, a consulting, research, publishing, media, and training company serving the AEC industry. He's also Entrepreneur-in-Residence at Arkansas' Walton College of Business, where he teaches new venture development and small business management. About Kurt Wilkin - Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For over 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies.

From Systems Engineer to Hot Sauce Star: Josue Rivas's Incredible JourneyJosue went from producing dozens of bottles of hot sauce a month to fulfilling an order for 40... THOUSAND... in six weeks!Join us for this week's episode of Unlocking Moves, the show that dives into the pivotal moments in a leader's journey that unlocked their true potential! Most of us only like to talk about our "glory" stories - but host Kurt Wilkin is a firm believer that we learn more from our stumbles and mistakes, our "gory" stories. On this episode, Kurt chats with Josue Rivas, founder and CEO of Savir Foods. Josue is a Peruvian immigrant and a former systems engineer and classically trained chef with three restaurants and a catering company. Compelled by his love for creating things for others to enjoy, he started Savir Foods in 2020 after making hot sauces for his friends and family. His sauces have been featured twice on the hit YouTube show Hot Ones, and can be ordered at savirfoods.comBut his rise wasn't simple or quick. Josue shares about years spent working unpaid internships, late nights bottling sauces by hand, and the large bet he made on himself when he pulled all-nighters and did whatever it took to produce 40,000 bottles of hot sauce in just six weeks! Josue is an open book about the struggles he's faced on his journey, including mental health and identity issues. Plus, Kurt did his best Sean Evans and Hot Ones impression with a hot sauce taste test!About Josue Rivas - Josue is the founder and CEO of Savir Foods, creator of artisanal hot sauces known for their bold flavors. Compelled by his love for creating things for others to enjoy, he started Savir Foods in 2020 after making hot sauces for his friends and family. His sauces have been featured twice on the hit YouTube show Hot Ones, and can be ordered at savirfoods.comAbout Kurt Wilkin - Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For over 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies. Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unlocking-moves Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/unlockingmovEsCredits:Video Title: "Will Forte Goes For a High Score While Eating Spicy Wings | Hot Ones"Creator: First We FeastLink to original video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ITj3o5T4Szc&t=316sVideo Title: "Lisa Dances Through the Pain WHile Eating Spicy Wings | Hot Ones"Creator: First We FeastLink to original video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vz0BD1v8N5U&t=418sVideo Title: "Lady Gaga Tries to Keep a Poker Face While Eating Spicy Wings | Hot Ones"Creator: First We FeastLink to original video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zp5TYOxtZqY&t=438sVideo Title: "Elijah Wood Tastes the Lava of Mount Doom While Eating Spicy Wings | Hot Ones"Creator: First We FeastLink to original video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-cQ_Wtv0sQ&t=261sVideo Title: "Lorde Drops the Mic While Eating Spicy Wings | Hot Ones"Creator: First We FeastLink to original video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qaoEyTZpv18&t=171sVideo Title: "Matt Damon Sweats From His Scalp While Eating Spicy Wings | Hot Ones"Creator: First We FeastLink to original video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yaXma6K9mzo&t=209s#UnlockingMoves #HireBetter #HotOnes #Entrepreneurship #MentalHealth #CareerPivot #SavirFoods #HotSauce #SmallBusiness #StartupJourney

Once you've been bitten by the entrepreneurial bug, what's the playbook for making it happen??Join us for this week's episode of Unlocking Moves, the show that dives into the pivotal moments in a leader's journey that unlocked their true potential! Many leaders only like to talk about their "glory" stories - but host Kurt Wilkin is a firm believer that we learn more from our stumbles and mistakes, our "gory" stories. On this episode, Kurt talks with Brien Gearin, the Founder and CEO of Ricochet Digital Marketing and host of the Millionaire University podcast, about his path to entrepreneurship. Brien's journey wasn't traditional - from working in Customer Experience with the Cincinnati Reds to failing miserably in a telemarketing sales job to "spreading chicken shit" as a lawncare specialist. But what Brien did at every turn was LEARN something that he now applies as an entrepreneur. He also learned to create opportunities for himself - taking a course on Digital Marketing led to recognizing a market gap and ultimately the creation of his company. Brien's story is full of lessons for entrepreneurs about seizing the opportunities we're given in life! To learn more about Rett Syndrome and support Brien's daughter Cecilia, visit www.rettsyndrome.orgAbout Brien Gearin - Brien founded Ricochet Digital Marketing 7-1/2 years ago, which supports and facilitates growth for small businesses. He's also a partner and podcast host for Millionaire University, which teaches and inspires the next generation of entrepreneurs. He's a husband and father of four kids under the age of seven, and loves to talk family, faith, baseball, entrepreneurship, and love of our great country.About Kurt Wilkin - Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For the past 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies. (00:00:00) Something Will Lead to Something – Trust the Process(00:01:20) Welcome to Unlocking Moves – Featuring Brien Gearin(00:02:50) Failing Forward – Brien’s First Job and the Brutal Truth(00:05:10) Quitting with Integrity: The Cold Call That Crossed the Line(00:07:04) From Ballpark Dreams to Customer Experience Lessons(00:09:10) Why Working for the Reds Helped Brien Define His Future(00:12:36) A Career-Shaping Realization – What I Want From My Life(00:13:14) Sponsor – HireBetter: Your Strategic Talent Partner(00:14:08) Rejection and Relational Sales: Brien’s Sales Journey(00:16:27) Why Sales Isn’t About Selling – It’s About Serving(00:17:50) Burn the Boats – How Brien Jumped Into Entrepreneurship(00:20:17) Lawncare, Chicken Sh*t, and Finding the Path to Ownership(00:22:00) Discovering Digital Marketing – And a New Identity(00:24:00) The Online Course That Changed Everything(00:26:03) Building Ricochet Digital from the Ground Up(00:28:10) Adding Services, Growing the Team, and Finding a Niche(00:30:00) Three Non-Negotiables for Marketing Growth(00:32:00) Millionaire University Podcast – How Brien Became Co-Host(00:34:58) Behind the Mic – Podcasting as a Platform for Impact(00:36:22) Faith, Fatherhood, and Raising a Daughter with Rett Syndrome(00:38:09) Diagnosis, Acceptance, and Advocacy for Rett Syndrome(00:41:18) Unlocking Move: The $300 Course That Sparked a New Life(00:44:49) Say Yes – The Secret to Creating Opportunity(00:45:06) The Great American Ballpark Hot Dog Scandal(00:47:20) The Sixth Grade Jersey – The Real MVP Moment(00:50:04) Why Nobody Asks About Your Business – And That’s Okay(00:52:04) Do You Wanna Know Who's Your Mike? Take the Quiz Here

Join me for a very special episode of Unlocking Moves - or "Unlucky Moves" - as my Aunt Barbara called it! Earlier this year, I used my podcast setup to record an interview with my 94-year-old Aunt Barbara Modisett. My original goal was to record a conversation with her about growing up with my mom (who passed away in 2008) and my grandparents (who I never got to meet) – a conversation I could share with my sons and the rest of my family. But talking to my Aunt B inspired me so much, and brought out such raw emotion, that I decided to share it here as a special episode of Unlocking Moves. This exercise became even more special to me and my family when she passed away a few weeks after we recorded. In loving memory of Barbara Brown Modisett - 1931-2025. About Barbara Modisett – Barbara was born March 15, 1930 in Grand Forks, ND and died February 6, 2025 in Chapel Hill, NC. She was married 71 years to the love of her life, John R. Modisett, who preceded her in death by one year. She was a badass aunt, mother, wife, sister, and daughter and was an incurable romantic, who loved woodland gardens, the music of Chopin and moonlight. Her philosophy was "Live each day as though it will be your last, and one day you will be right." Her full obituary, which she wrote herself, can be found here. About Kurt Wilkin - Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For the past 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies. He misses his mommy dearly and viewed his Aunt B as his last living connection to her – he now misses her too.

Join us for a very special episode of Unlocking Moves, the show that dives into the pivotal moments in a leader's journey that unlocked their true potential! This week, host Kurt Wilkin steps into the spotlight solo to celebrate 50 episodes of raw, inspiring conversations with some of the most remarkable entrepreneurs, leaders, and visionaries. Instead of featuring a guest, Kurt reflects on some of the funniest, most surprising, and most powerful moments from previous episodes -- from Bo Burlingham revealing his secret hatred of writing, to Scott Leese sharing his battle with opioid addiction to Jason Bronstad getting schooled on the jiu-jitsu mat by a young girl. You'll also hear unforgettable moments with Tyler Allgaier, Mike Smerklo, Rolf Wilkin, Stephen and Allison Ellsworth, and many more.Kurt pulls back the curtain to share behind-the-scenes stories, his favorite “gotcha” questions for guests, and some surprising lessons learned along the way. It's the perfect tribute to the Unlocking Moves journey so far and a reminder that real growth happens when we share the messy, honest parts of our story. Whether you've been part of the Unlocking Moves community since day one, or you're just discovering it, this milestone episode is packed with inspiration, laughter, and a whole lot of heart.About Kurt Wilkin - Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For the past 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies.

"Don't be an order taker... be a VALUE DRIVER"Join us for this week's episode of Unlocking Moves, the show that dives into the pivotal moments in a leader's journey that unlocked their true potential! Many leaders only like to talk about their "glory" stories - but host Kurt Wilkin is a firm believer that we learn more from our stumbles and mistakes, our "gory" stories. On this episode, Kurt talks with Nick Moran, General Partner at New Stack Ventures - a VC firm that is shaking up the venture capital industry by investing in "outsiders" who don't fit the mold of a traditional tech target. Nick's story is full of unlocking moves - from being willing to call attention to problems in his first job, to remaking himself after a "meets expectations" performance review, and from realizing he had no network, to starting the first VC-centered podcast over a decade ago. Nick also sheds light on the VC industry and how decisions are traditionally made - either based on resume (did you go to Stanford and work for Google?!) or on traction (how much money have you already made?!). New Stack Ventures does things differently, looking for KILLERS with earned insights who have what it takes to run a great company. For any entrepreneur thinking about raising a VC round, this is a can't miss conversation!About Nick Moran - Nick is the Founder and General Partner of New Stack Ventures. A former M&A and Product Management professional for Danaher, Nick began angel investing full-time in 2013. In 2014, he launched the first Venture Capital podcast, The Full Ratchet, growing it into one of the largest media brands in venture and the top 0.5% of most listened to podcasts globally. The networks and dealflow generated from the show led to the founding of New Stack Ventures, which focuses on mission-driven founders outside the Bay Area. New Stack has fast become one of the leading seed funds between the coasts. They recently fully deployed their second fund ($42.6M) and launched fund 3, a $100M fund in Q3 of 2024.About Kurt Wilkin - Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For the past 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies. (00:00:00) Intro – Welcome to Unlocking Moves(00:00:19) Nick Moran’s Journey from Corporate to Angel Investor(00:09:48) Building a Venture Firm Without Silicon Valley(00:12:56) Sponsor – HireBetter: Your Strategic Talent Partner(00:13:06) How Nick Picks Winning Founders(00:24:15) The Importance of Market Timing(00:39:40) Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs(00:48:16) Do You Wanna Know Who's Your Mike? Take the Quiz Here

Bo Burlingham has had a storied career writing about some of the best entrepreneurs and greatest companies of all time -- but there's something about Bo that NO ONE knew, maybe not even Bo...until this episode of Unlocking Moves. Bo actually HATES writing!!! Join us for this week's episode of Unlocking Moves, the show that dives into the pivotal moments in a leader's journey that unlocked their true potential! Many leaders only like to talk about their "glory" stories - but host Kurt Wilkin is a firm believer that we learn more from our stumbles and mistakes, our "gory" stories. On this episode, Kurt continues his conversation with legendary business journalist and author, Bo Burlingham. In this episode, they cover Bo's early career at Inc. Magazine, where they made entrepreneurs and new companies the focus of their storytelling, rather than focusing on established and already successful businesses. This led him to covering some of the biggest household names of today (think Apple, Microsoft, Domino's Pizza...) but before anyone knew about them. They also covered his transition into co-authoring books about business, including Small Giants and The Great Game of Business. Bo's journey closely follows the path of many entrepreneurs: you make choices out of necessity, and you don't always end up where you thought you'd go! Bo's story is inspirational -- and applied to anyone.About Bo Burlingham - Bo was Editor-at-Large for Inc. Magazine for many years, and the author of five books, including The Great Game of Business, Finish Big, and Small Giants. Check out the full details of his long and illustrious career in business journalism here: https://boburlingham.com/about-bo/About Kurt Wilkin - Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For the past 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies. (00:00:00) Intro(00:01:31) Welcome Back: Inc. Magazine, Entrepreneurship & Unlocking Moves(00:05:04) Inside Fidelity: How Business Changed Bo’s Radical Views(00:06:25) Breaking Into Inc. Magazine: The Opportunity of a Lifetime(00:14:08) Creating the Inc. 500 List & Spotlighting Future Giants(00:17:26) How Inc. Magazine Sparked the Entrepreneurial Boom(00:23:58) Sponsor – HireBetter: Your Strategic Talent Partner(00:24:10) Jack Stack’s Radical Business Model & The Great Game of Business(00:35:09) Small Giants: Why Purposeful Growth Beats Fast Growth(00:36:17) Building Evergreen Companies: Lessons for Longevity(00:39:43) Bo’s Unlocking Moves: Pivotal Career Moments(00:50:09) Do You Wanna Know Who's Your Mike? Take the Quiz Here

How did Rick Girard go from Playboy photoshoots to being a recruiting and hiring guru?Join us for this week's episode of Unlocking Moves, the show that dives into the pivotal moments in a leader's journey that unlocked their true potential! Many leaders only like to talk about their "glory" stories - but host Kurt Wilkin is a firm believer that we learn more from our stumbles and mistakes, our "gory" stories. On this episode, Kurt talks with Rick Girard, the Founder and CEO of Intertru - and creator of the HireOS methodology. Rick started out as a "starving artist" dreaming of being a photographer for Playboy (for the art, of course!!), but seized the opportunity to join his cousin's recruiting firm in Idaho for the snowboarding (and a regular paycheck!). In this wide ranging conversation, Kurt and Rick discuss the "broken" recruiting industry, how to hire A Players for your business, and the biggest interviewing mistakes entrepreneurs make. You're gonna love this episode...the people episode!About Rick Girard - Rick is a value driven leader whose purpose is to positively impact every entrepreneur's business, ensuring they align with the strongest people for business success. His HireOS is the solution for leaders to win the strongest people by annihilating "best practices" in hiring with humanistic, evidence-driven, non-biased, and time-efficient experience. He's the author of Healing Career Wounds and the host of Hire Power Radio.About Kurt Wilkin - Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For the past 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies. (00:01:18) Introduction: Welcome to Unlocking Moves(00:02:10) Unconventional Beginnings: From Playboy Photography to Recruiting(00:03:14) Meet Rick Girard: AI & HireOS Recruiting Innovator(00:09:38) Sponsor – HireBetter: Your Strategic Talent Partner(00:09:51) Breaking the Mold: From Resume-Slinging to Strategic Hiring(00:11:44) The HireOS Method: Healing Career Wounds & Beyond(00:16:11) The Three Pillars of Interviewing: Pain, Desire & Impact(00:20:03) Avoiding Costly Hiring Mistakes: Evidence-Based Interviews(00:23:38) Culture & Core Values: Building Teams That Thrive(00:26:22) Hiring Archetypes: Why 'Resume, Ralph' Stands Out(00:27:47) Unlocking Moves: Pivotal Career Transitions(00:29:46) Wildest Interview Stories: Tales from the Front Lines(00:31:03) The One Interview Question You’re Never Asked: Mastering Interviews(00:34:13) Higher Power Radio: Expanding Hiring Insights(00:35:48) Wrap-Up: Wanna Know Who's Your Mike? Take the Test Here

How did this "Small Giant" of business journalism get his start? Would you believe his start including getting arrested at a radical rally in 1969?! And that's just the tip of the iceberg!Join us for this week's episode of Unlocking Moves, the show that dives into the pivotal moments in a leader's journey that unlocked their true potential! Many leaders only like to talk about their "glory" stories - but host Kurt Wilkin is a firm believer that we learn more from our stumbles and mistakes, our "gory" stories. On this episode, Kurt talks with Bo Burlingham about his background and path to becoming one of the most well-known business writers of the last 50 years. When Bo was a member of the Students for a Democratic Society and cutting his teeth with anti-war demonstrators in Paris, France in the late 60's, it was hard to imagine that he would later become an Executive Editor for Inc. Magazine, covering some of the most important entrepreneurs in history. His path included some key, pivotal decisions - what type of person did he want to be? In this conversation, he and Kurt uncover some of the key moments in his path - taking a job out of necessity with Fidelity Investments helped him see that business wasn't the "root of all evil" as he had previously believed. Strap in for a fascinating conversation - and be on the lookout for Part 2, where we will dive even more into Bo's career!About Bo Burlingham - Bo was Editor-at-Large for Inc. Magazine for many years, and the author of five books, including The Great Game of Business, Finish Big, and Small Giants. Check out the full details of his long and illustrious career in business journalism here: https://boburlingham.com/about-bo/About Kurt Wilkin - Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For the past 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies. (00:00:00) The Radical Beginnings of Bo Burlingham(00:01:23) Welcome to Unlocking Moves – Featuring Bo Burlingham(00:02:13) Interviewing the World's Greatest Entrepreneurs(00:03:32) Why Bo Never Became an Entrepreneur(00:07:06) The Truth About Business – A Radical Shift(00:13:42) From Protester to Business Journalist – A Wild Journey(00:14:05) Sponsor – HireBetter: Your Strategic Talent Partner(00:22:29) Choosing a New Path – Escaping the Underground(00:26:32) Becoming a Journalist – A Career Unexpected(00:30:28) The Indictment That Changed Everything(00:40:32) A Four-Day Job That Led to an FBI Warrant(00:50:26) Learning to Tell Stories That Matter(00:55:10) The Power of Small Giants in Business(01:02:45) The Evolution of Entrepreneurship – Lessons from a Career

Want tips for becoming an entrepreneur, navigating venture capital, and living well to 105?! This might be the episode for you! Join us for this week's episode of Unlocking Moves, the show that dives into the pivotal moments in a leader's journey that unlocked their true potential! Many leaders only like to talk about their "glory" stories - but host Kurt Wilkin is a firm believer that we learn more from our stumbles and mistakes, our "gory" stories. On this episode, Kurt talks with Rob Adams - Executive Partner at Alumni Ventures and seasoned venture capital investor - about the venture capital industry's relationship to entrepreneurship. Rob cut his teeth as a tech entrepreneur in the 1980s, and came to a realization that a combination of preparation, visualization, and motivation can help you achieve your goals. Rob's experience and vision led him to teaching, and ultimately creating and running the University of Texas' Venture Labs. This episode is full of insights on venture capitalism and its relationship to entrepreneurial success. Kurt and Rob also discussed Rob's latest interest -- creating a No-BS approach to health and longevity -- to help others cut through the noise around those topics. About Rob Adams - Rob is an Executive Director with Alumni Ventures, where he founded both Congress Avenue Ventures and Ring Ventures, venture funds focused on the University of Texas and Texas A&M communities. He has been active in the venture business for 30 years and previously he was on the faculty of The University of Texas where he taught entrepreneurship in the MBA program and was the Director of Texas Venture Labs. He’s a former software executive, entrepreneur and institutional fund manager. He has served on many corporate boards and has founded or financed more than 300 companies and raised significant amounts of capital in both public and private markets. About Kurt Wilkin - Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For the past 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies. Chapters: (00:00:00) Intro (00:04:37) Rob's Background, Alumni Ventures and Who are they funding? (00:11:00) How Rob and Kurt Met thru Ron Kesler and Rod Kurtz (00:12:06) Sponsor: HireBetter (00:12:18) Meeting with Bill Gates and Steve Jobs (00:15:51) What drew Rob Adams to go to academics (00:20:38) A Good Hard Kick in the Ass - Business Porn (00:25:01) Navigating High Valuations: Strategies for Startup Funding (00:26:07) Rob Adams Unlocking Moves (and some Bloopers) (00:30:07) Faith, Visualization, and Opportunity: Unlocking Career Potential (00:32:07) Choosing Potential Over Pay: An Unlocking Move (00:35:21) Rob Adams in longevity space - Lifespan.agency (00:42:15) Top 3 tips from Rob Adams (00:45:47) Rob's secret to a younger physique - Sleep and Cold showers (00:49:30) Immigrant Instincts (00:52:12) Like and Subscribe to Unlocking Moves (00:52:38) Outro (00:52:51) Wanna know Who's Your Mike? Take the Quiz Here

What does it take to WEATHER the storm and build a business from scratch -- with no industry experience? Join us for this week's episode of Unlocking Moves, the show that dives into the pivotal moments in a leader's journey that unlocked their true potential! Many leaders only like to talk about their "glory" stories - but host Kurt Wilkin is a firm believer that we learn more from our stumbles and mistakes, our "gory" stories. On this episode, Kurt has a raw and open discussion with Eric Hui, the founder and CEO of Terracea, an outerwear company that has you covered in all types of harsh weather. Eric's entrepreneurial journey started literally from scratch - with no real experience or network - but a great idea that filled a gap in the market. He talks about his entrepreneurial journey from Hawaii to Boston - including many missteps along the way. He covers the stubbornness required to start a company, developing a tolerance for risk, making (and thankfully SURVIVING) terrible hires, and maintaining a hyper focus on his vision. If you're thinking about starting a company, this episode provides a ton of phenomenal advice on what to do... and what NOT to do. About Eric Hui - Eric is the founder of Terracea, and manages all aspects of the business - from day-to-day operations to long-term strategy. He works with a talented team of people, and views each day as a new learning opportunity. More importantly, he embraces the challenges that come with launching an exciting outerwear business. About Kurt Wilkin - Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For the past 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies. Time Stamps: (00:00:00) Intro (00:02:23) A boy from Hawaii making winter apparel? (00:04:27) Eric's Background and why he started Terracea (00:10:28) QUICK TIPS when you wanted to persue your entrepreneurial journey (00:12:48) Sponsor: HireBetter (00:13:01) What does Terracea means? (00:14:45) Shell of the year award - Sorrel (00:16:43) JACKET GIVEAWAY!!! Watch here to WIN (00:17:40) Watch here to Get a TERRACEA DISCOUNT CODE (00:18:01) People (00:20:43) Who's Your Mike? (00:22:11) (00:25:02) Grit and Perseverance is the Key (00:28:06) (00:29:35) Ask Eric (00:30:21) Eric Hui's Unlocking Moves : Marketing (00:33:42) Listener's Advocate: Would you do it again? (00:34:59) Top 3 tips from Eric (00:38:06) Bonus Tip: If it sound too good to be true? QUADRUPLE Check! (00:38:57) Where do they get their product names? (00:40:15) Subscribe to Unlocking Moves (00:40:31) Outro (00:40:44) Wanna know Who's Your Mike? Take the Quiz Here

What does it take to make “big” happen? In this episode, Kurt Wilkin visits with serial entrepreneur, mortgage industry innovator, Iron Man athlete, and CEO coach to CEO coaches, Mark Moses. Mark shares how early challenges - including his father's bankruptcy - shaped his entrepreneurial motivation, growing multiple successful businesses, writing multiple best-selling books, and eventually founding CEO Coaching International, which has coached over 1,000 entrepreneurs and CEOs worldwide. Join Kurt as he learns several key themes from Mark’s journey, including: How he turned his father's bankruptcy into motivation to succeed, developing the mantra "if it's meant to be, it's up to me" Growing his first company, Student Painters, to 3,000 employees while still in college Building Platinum Capital to $1.6 billion in loan volume, including a memorable moment when he rode an 8,000-pound elephant to inspire his team after losing 80% of his staff to a competitor His approach to leadership during turbulent times, emphasizing the importance of regular communication, strategic thinking, and maintaining personal well-being The four key principles detailed in his books "⁠Make Big Happen⁠" and "⁠Making Big Happen⁠": thinking big, establishing measurable metrics, hiring exceptional talent, and maintaining strong accountability Drawing parallels between completing 12 Iron Man races and entrepreneurship – highlighting the importance of consistent effort and resilience in both pursuits Mark Moses is proof of the importance of making bold decisions, maintaining resilience through challenges, and continuously upgrading talent to match company growth ambitions. His story illustrates how personal setbacks can be transformed into professional motivation and success. About Mark Moses: Mark is the author of the international bestselling books “Make BIG Happen” and “Making BIG Happen” and is the CEO and Founding Partner of CEO Coaching International, which has coached more than 1,000 of the world’s top high-growth entrepreneurs and CEOs in over 60 countries. About Kurt Wilkin: Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For the past 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies. About HireBetter: ⁠HireBetter⁠ is the award-winning strategic talent partner for entrepreneurial, growth-minded, middle-market companies that need the right solutions to thrive and scale. Recognized by Forbes as one of America's Best Executive Recruiting Firms, HireBetter supports organizational growth and change by developing effective talent strategies and building world-class leadership teams. To learn more, visit ⁠www.HireBetter.com⁠

What do Olympic Kayaking, venture investing, and NERF guns have in common?! Tune in to Unlocking Moves to find out! Unlocking moves is the show that dives into the pivotal moments in a leader's journey that unlocked their true potential! Many leaders only like to talk about their "glory" stories - but host Kurt Wilkin is a firm believer that we learn more from our stumbles and mistakes, our "gory" stories. On this episode, Kurt has a deep conversation with Ty Hagler, a former world-class kayaker turned innovator, designer, and entrepreneur. Ty shares the lessons he learned while his attention was divided between training for the Olympics and trying to break into the industrial design field. I'm a huge believer in learning lessons from our biggest setbacks - Ty embodies that! He had to go all in on athletics to realize that he didn't actually want to keep pushing in that direction. Now, he's a total badass leading Trig - his design consulting firm, and creating space for other designers to thrive with his venture studio. Creativity, iteration, and innovation are huge themes in this episode! About Ty Hagler - Ty's 20-year journey as a designer, innovator, and entrepreneur has had many surprising twists and turns. His start as a world-class kayaker led to building an in-house innovation department at Home Depot. He started an award-winning design consulting business, Trig, which has been responsible for bringing multiple breakthrough products to market, most recently the Couplet Care bassinet. About Kurt Wilkin - Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For the past 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies.

It's Thanksgiving week! Which means family, turkey, and Thanksgiving traditions. It also means we've been inundated by Holiday shopping ads for months! At Unlocking Moves we decided to go behind-the-scenes in advance of the Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping extravaganzas. We want to share some of the key decisions and mistakes that helped shape many of your favorite companies (and we have some great footage from previous episodes -- so why not?!?!) Join us for a special episode of Unlocking Moves - the show that dives into the pivotal moments in a leader's journey that unlocked their potential! Many leaders only like to talk about their "glory" stories - but host Kurt Wilkin is a firm believer that we learn more from our stumbles and mistakes, our "gory" stories. On this episode, Kurt highlights wisdom and lessons learned from some of our past episodes featuring Consumer Packaged Goods leaders. You'll hear advice about building a great team with a great culture and stories about naming your new company, and behind-the-scenes stories from some Shark Tank participants! This is a can't miss episode for anyone in the CPG industry or who works in CPG! Our guests for this special episode include Tori Brodsky from besa mi vino, Matthias Ihlenfeld from woom bike, Paul Hedrick from Tecovas, Jason Bronstad from Malk Organics, and Allison and Steven Ellsworth from Poppi. About Kurt Wilkin - Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For the past 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies.

How did Mike Begg go from a sinking ship at Sears to becoming an eCommerce guru - advising some of the biggest brands how to sell on Amazon? Join us for Episode 41 of Unlocking Moves to find out - the show that dives into the pivotal moments in a leader's journey that unlocked their true potential! Many leaders only like to talk about their success stories - but host Kurt Wilkin is a firm believer that we learn more from our stumbles and mistakes. On this episode, Kurt chats with Mike Begg about his path -- beginning his career at Deloitte and then Sears -- to ultimately launching his own eCommerce sales company. After finding success re-selling products on Amazon, he and his partners realized that no one really knew how to sell online, so they started AMZ Advisors. Mike and Kurt dive deep into some of the secrets to successfully selling online, how to build culture in a virtual world that includes offshore and nearshore teams, and the leadership and decision-making skills required to succeed as an entrepreneur. This episode is jam-packed with real world advice for companies looking to increase their online sales! About Mike Begg - Mike is an entrepreneur and eCommerce and digital marketing expert. Mike co-founded AMZ Advisers with his two partners in 2015. Together they have generated over half a billion in sales for their clients. Mike and his team also operate AMZ Courses, which educates Amazon sellers on how to maximize sales on the platform, and GoAvance, which helps brands expand into Latin America. Mike loves sharing advice and tips on anything related to Amazon and building businesses, in general. About Kurt Wilkin - Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For the past 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies. (00:00:00) Intro (00:03:51) Mike's Career Path - Where he started and how he ended up building his own business (00:08:47) Mike was a real life Side Hustle Sam (00:09:21) AMZ Advisers (00:11:00) Sponsor: HireBetter (00:11:12) GoAvance: Expanding Brands to Mexico's E-commerce (00:14:03) How do you build a strong culture when you got an offshore/nearshore team (00:16:38) Tips on how to build a strong offshore/nearshore team (00:18:55) Mike's Unlocking Moves (00:22:27) Mike's Favorite Character on the book Who's Your Mike? (00:24:19) 3 tips on how to sell your products better in Amazon (00:27:04) Video Content is King (00:27:57) Mike Broke his collar bone in Poland (00:30:25) Mike Begg Contact info (00:30:41) Subscribe to Unlocking Moves (00:30:58) Outro (00:31:11) Take the Quiz on whosyourmike.com

I believe that your gory story is much more powerful than your glory story. We all learn more from the lessons learned the hard way. As I like to say, the bigger the shit show, the bigger the lesson. Welcome to the Gory Story Episode. Join us for a special episode of Unlocking Moves - the show that dives into the pivotal moments in a leader's journey that unlocked their true potential! Many leaders only like to talk about their "glory" stories - but host Kurt Wilkin is a firm believer that we learn more from our stumbles and mistakes, or "gory" stories. Talking about these screwups, scary moments, and missteps from our entrepreneurial journey is often the best way to learn - and to help others! On this episode, Kurt reflects on some of the best gory stories from past episodes of Unlocking Moves. Our guests for this special episode include Allison and Stephen Ellsworth, Brian Moran, Kit Rich, Ramon Ray, LaQuita Cleare, and Mike Smerklo. Thank you all for sharing your GORY stories! About Kurt Wilkin - Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For the past 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies.

How did lessons learned in poker and pickleball (and tennis) help shape this uber-successful entrepreneur? Join us for Episode 39 of Unlocking Moves to find out - the show that dives into the pivotal moments in a leader's journey that unlocked their true potential! Many leaders only like to talk about their success stories - but host Kurt Wilkin is a firm believer that we learn more from our stumbles and mistakes. On this episode, Kurt sits down with Joel Trammell, uber-successful founder (and nine-figure exiter) of several tech companies to discuss the unique role of a CEO in an ever-changing world. Joel discusses the importance of balancing customer, shareholder, and employee expectations in creating a successful business. He explains how the skills required for Tennis and Poker helped make him a better leader, and he shares his passion for helping other CEOs learn how to be their most successful selves. This is an episode you won't want to miss! About Joel Trammell - Joel is a serial entrepreneur and lifelong learner. He is all about building great organizations. His leadership has led to multiple successful exits and exceptional investor returns over his 30-year career. He's the owner of Texas CEO Magazine, which reaches more than 10,000 CEOs across the state, and is a pioneer in the field of CEO education and training. About Kurt Wilkin - Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For the past 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies. Special thanks to Texas Hill Country Provisions, the live host of this episode.

"It's amazing what can be accomplished when no one cares who gets the credit" - Coach John Wooden Join us for Episode 38 of Unlocking Moves, the show that dives into the pivotal moments in a leader's journey that unlocked their true potential. Many leaders only like to talk about their success stories - but host Kurt Wilkin is a firm believer that we learn more from our stumbles and mistakes. On this episode, Kurt has a deep conversation with former NCAA basketball coach Mark Gottfried. Coach Gottfried was the Head Basketball Coach at Murray State, Alabama, Cal State Northridge, and NC State, and compiled over 400 wins in his career. He became known as the "turnaround coach" due to his ability to take over a program in decline and make pivotal changes to get the organization back on the right track. His story has a ton of lessons that will help entrepreneurs - from networking skills to bootstrapping, from goal setting to developing the grit and desire to GET IT DONE, Mark Gottfried has done it all! You won't want to miss this conversation! About Mark Gottfried - Mark spent a lifetime in the game of basketball, having played and coached at the highest levels. He was part of a national championship team while an assistant coach at UCLA and was a head basketball coach at Murray State, Cal State Northridge, Alabama, and NC State. Mark has been named the Conference Coach of the Year three times and has numerous wins against number-one ranked teams. About Kurt Wilkin - Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For the past 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies.

"Think about who you want to be before thinking about what you want to do." Join us for Episode 37 of Unlocking Moves, the show that dives into the pivotal moments in an entrepreneur's journey that unlocked their true potential. Many leaders only like to talk about their success stories - but host Kurt Wilkin is a firm believer that we learn more from our stumbles and mistakes. On this episode, Kurt chats with entrepreneur and leader Charles Choice, who has a phenomenal story of resilience, trusting your gut, and unlocking success through aligning with your true purpose and values. Charles is no stranger to taking leaps of faith - from leaving his JPMorganChase job to launch two startups, to reconnecting with his now-wife after a psychic intervention! His journey led him to WeWork at it's height, then a realization that he wanted to make more of an impact through his work. Charles' soul-searching led him to contemplate his "ikigai" (the intersection of what he's good at, what he loves, what the world needs, and what he can be paid for). He ultimately landed as the Director of Rob Dyrdek's Do-Or-Dier Visionary Foundation, which provides underrepresented entrepreneurs with the capital and education they need to be successful. Talk about a true purpose! About Charles Choice - Charles is the Director of Rob Dyrdek's Do-Or-Dier Visionary Foundation, whose focuse is to provide capital and resources to underrepresented entrepreneurs, ultimately giving more people the opportunity to pursue their dreams. He started his career at JPMorganChase in 2010, before taking a leap of faith to start his own business. He gained some traction and seed money with his startup, but ultimately hit a number of roadblocks that caused him to let it go - including the challenges that atypical or underrepresented entrepreneurs face when attempting to raise capital. He also worked as the Global Expansion Lead for WeWork. About Kurt Wilkin - Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For the past 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies.

How did Ramon Ray go from being FIRED by the United Nations to finding his purpose helping small businesses grow? Join us for Episode 36 to find out! Unlocking Moves dives into the pivotal moments in an entrepreneur's journey that unlocked their true potential. Many leaders only like to talk about their success stories - but host Kurt Wilkin is a firm believer that we learn more from our stumbles and mistakes. On this episode, Kurt chats with Ramon Ray - a force of nature and self-professed "tinkerer" who has started and successfully exited several online media companies. Ramon started out as a real-life "Side Hustle Sam" - while working for the UN General Assembly he tinkered around with tech and started several side businesses aimed at helping local small businesses. Eventually, his side hustles got him fired, but led to him finding his true purpose in "edutainment". Our conversation ranged from what makes entrepreneurs tick to how YOU can find your "Zone of Genius", and from childhood mishaps to building your personal brand. You won't want to miss this! About Ramon Ray - Ramon is a leading expert on small business success. He inspires and educates thousands of business owners through his content, events and media interviews. He's a five-time entrepreneur, who has sold three companies. He's a best selling author and his latest and fourth book - "Celebrity CEO" - is about personal branding. About Kurt Wilkin - Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For the past 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies.

How did Poppi go from the Dallas Farmer's Market to every grocery store in the country in four years? Join us for Episode 35 to find out! Unlocking Moves dives into the pivotal moments in an entrepreneur's journey that unlocked their true potential. Many leaders only like to talk about their success stories - but host Kurt Wilkin is a firm believer that we learn more from our stumbles and mistakes. On this episode, Kurt chats with Allison and Stephen Ellsworth, founders of Poppi - the world's fastest growing soda brand that is better for you and tastes GREAT. From humble beginnings operating at a weekend farmer's market booth as a side gig, to open tryouts for Shark Tank, to becoming one of the fastest growing beverage companies in human history - Allison and Stephen have experienced countless ups and downs along the way. In this deep dive behind the scenes, they discuss the grit and entrepreneurial spirit required to grow a business, the process behind Shark Tank, and being "digital first" by building a community of raving fans...Oh, and they did all of this while raising a family! About Allison and Stephen Ellsworth, Co-Founders of Poppi - Allison is the Chief Brand Officer, and Stephen is the Chief Product Officer. Poppi is a delicious, prebiotic, better-for-you soda made with clean ingredients. Struggling with a variety of health issues, Allison created Poppi after discovering the health benefits of apple cider vinegar and experimenting in her kitchen to make it taste great. She leads the Austin-based beverage company's overall brand strategy and innovation. She pioneered the brand's cultural cache and digital-first approach, attracting a loyal community and billions of views on TikTok and Instagram. Stephen leads the company's product development and innovation. About Kurt Wilkin – Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For the past 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies.

How has a Hollywood trainer made the transition from fitness to directing an award-winning feature film? Join us for Episode 34 to find out! Unlocking Moves dives into the pivotal moments in an entrepreneur's journey that unlocked their true potential. Many leaders only like to talk about their success stories - but host Kurt Wilkin is a firm believer that we learn more from our stumbles and mistakes. This episode features a conversation between Kurt and Kit Rich, a fitness entrepreneur who's spent 16 years training stars like Jennifer Lawrence and Kesha, building a brand and a following along the way. Kit has built her brand by treating people with respect, making no false promises, and finding her true purpose in life: to help others with her voice. Once she unlocked that guiding principle, she learned to apply the same passion she had in her fitness entrepreneurship to her writing... and even ended up writing and directing a feature film! This episode is packed with great advice for entrepreneurs, or anyone who lacks the confidence to chase their passion! Plus, you're not going to want to miss the health tips at the end! About Kit Rich - Kit is a celebrity trainer and fitness entrepreneur who took a huge leap of faith and became a feature film director/writer. Her feature film debut, Isabel's Garden, is currently on the international festival circuit and is garnering awards, including Best Picture and Best Director. Kit's story has been featured in the International Business Times, OK Magazine, and many other publications, highlighting her unique and brave transition from successful fitness entrepreneur to filmmaker. About Kurt Wilkin – Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For the past 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies.

How do thousands of entrepreneurial companies unlock their true potential?Join us for Episode 33 for a deep dive into all things EOS® with Kelly Knight, the Integrator and President of EOS® Worldwide! Unlocking Moves dives into the pivotal moments in an entrepreneur's journey that unlocked their true potential. Many leaders only like to talk about their success stories - but host Kurt Wilkin is a firm believer that we learn more from our stumbles and mistakes. This episode features a conversation between Kurt and Kelly about her journey to EOS Worldwide, the Integrator-Visionary partnership...and high-quality Mac & Cheese. As a young girl, Kelly learned that she had an execution mindset over dinners with her visionary father. But it wasn't until she took a leap, leaving behind an 18 year career in finance, that she found her true calling as an Integrator. Integrators partner with Visionary leaders - the IDEA people - to bring their visions to life and make them reality. When done right, the Visionary / Integrator partnership creates the "Rocket Fuel" needed to make entrepreneurial companies thrive!(00:00:00) Vision Without Traction is Hallucination(00:00:31) Welcome to Unlocking Moves – Featuring Kelly Knight(00:01:16) A Podcast Reunion After Four Years(00:02:12) The Famous Mac & Cheese Offer – Did Anyone Claim It?(00:02:50) Introducing Kelly Knight – The Integrator for EOS Worldwide(00:03:31) Revisiting the Most Viewed Podcast Episode(00:04:08) What is EOS? Breaking Down Entrepreneurial Operating System(00:07:31) Visionary vs. Integrator – Finding the Perfect Fit(00:14:05) Sponsor – HireBetter: Your Strategic Talent Partner(00:17:01) The Role of an Integrator in Business Success(00:25:26) Struggles Visionaries Face in Managing People(00:27:26) Why Visionaries Often Struggle with Hiring(00:33:20) The Power of People in Business Growth(00:36:31) Kelly’s Book – ‘People: Dare to Build an Intentional Culture’(00:42:41) Recognizing and Addressing the "Mike" in Your Organization(00:43:01) Unlocking Move: Leaving a 20-Year Financial Career for EOS(00:45:02) The Visionary-Integrator Relationship – Struggles & Strengths(00:47:27) Why Every Partnership Needs Constant Work(00:50:00) Kurt’s Biggest Lesson Since the Last Interview(00:51:34) The Impact of Abundance vs. Scarcity Mindset(00:49:45) Kelly’s Love for the Water – Finding Clarity in Nature(00:52:52) Do You Wanna Know Who's Your Mike? Take the Quiz HereAbout Kelly Knight - Kelly has served as EOS Worldwide’s Integrator since 2016. She credits her father for being the first person to show her how to take an idea and make it real. Prior to joining EOS®, Kelly honed her skills as an expert team-builder for more than twenty years in the financial services industry. Hard-wired to find talented people and guide them to reaching their full potential, Kelly harmonizes the major functions of EOS while driving accountability and organizational clarity. Today, Kelly’s focus is sharing EOS with the world and growing the EOS Community with people who are passionate about helping entrepreneurs get everything they want from their businesses and live their ideal lives.About Kurt Wilkin – Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For the past 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies.

How do passion, hard work, and a little bit of “luck” make two old-school media companies work in 2024? Join us for Episode 32 to find out! Unlocking Moves dives into the pivotal moments in an entrepreneur's journey that unlocked their true potential. Many leaders only like to talk about their success stories - but host Kurt Wilkin is a firm believer that we learn more from our stumbles and mistakes. This episode features a conversation between Kurt and Trace Fowler, the founder of two media companies in Ohio. Trace talks about his journey -- leaving the “golden handcuffs” of a good job to take the entrepreneurial leap into the unknown -- trusting his gut, focusing on his passions, and finding niches that work. His two small town magazines bring real, positive coverage to Hamilton and Middleton, Ohio, while Chatterbox Sports covers high school, college, and pro sports in innovative and entertaining ways. You're going to love this episode! About Trace Fowler – Trace is a lifelong sports enthusiast with an entrepreneurial itch. He founded two media companies – One Pride Publishing and Chatterbox Sports. One Pride Publishing is a marketing-driven organization featuring two publications, The Hamiltonian and The Middletonian, which focus on highlighting the positive happenings within those two communities and reach over 25,000 single family homes. Chatterbox Sports is dedicated to covering prep athletics through live streams with over 1 million total views; and has expanded into professional and college sports. About Kurt Wilkin – Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For the past 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies.

What lessons can entrepreneurs learn from the world of college athletics? Join us for Episode 31 to find out! Unlocking Moves dives into the pivotal moments in an entrepreneur's journey that unlocked their true potential. Many leaders only like to talk about their success stories - but host Kurt Wilkin is a firm believer that we learn more from our stumbles and mistakes. This episode features a conversation with Hunter Yurachek, the Director of Athletics for Kurt’s beloved Arkansas Razorbacks. As the leader of one of the nation’s most successful college athletics departments, Hunter is responsible for hiring great coaches and giving them the resources they need to ensure their student athletes’ success. If that doesn’t sound familiar to my entrepreneurial audience… exchange “coaches” with “leadership team” and “student athletes” with “employees”. Hunter’s career has taken him all over the country and taught him lessons about sports, administration, and life – lessons that every leader can learn from! Whether you “Woo Pig Sooie” or not, you’ll find some great advice in this episode! About Hunter Yurachek – Hunter is in his 14th year as an Athletics Director, and his 7th year at the University of Arkansas. During the past six years, the Razorbacks have won 35 SEC Championships in 11 different sports, more than any other SEC program. They have also won 7 National Championships and finished in the Top 13 of the prestigious Learfield Directors Cup for three straight years under Yurachek’s leadership. About Kurt Wilkin – Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For the past 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies.

"Entrepreneurs don't want advice from a 24-year-old journalist... they want it straight from the horse's mouth!" Join us for Episode 30 of Unlocking Moves, the show that dives into the pivotal moments in an entrepreneur's journey that unlocked their true potential. Many business leaders only like to talk about their success stories - but host Kurt Wilkin is a firm believer that we learn more from our stumbles and mistakes. This episode features a conversation with Loren Feldman, a business journalist-turned-entrepreneur and founder of 21 Hats. While writing for Inc., Forbes, and the New York Times, Loren recognized that entrepreneurs and small business owners need community. His 21 Hats podcast, newsletter, and mastermind sessions offer entrepreneurs the chance to network, share stories, and most importantly – build community. The conversation covers everything from his time in business journalism to his four months spent in the Dominican Republic as a coach in the Texas Rangers organization. You won’t want to miss this! About Loren Feldman - Loren is founder and editor-in-chief of 21 Hats, an online community for business owners. He hosts the 21 Hats Podcast, a peer group conversation that has been tracking the experiences of 10 business owners for over three years. He also edits the 21 Hats Morning Report, a daily email newsletter that's been named the best newsletter for business owners by Inc magazine. Previously, he was a senior editor covering entrepreneurship at Inc, Forbes and the New York Times. He has also been editor-in-chief of Philadelphia magazine and executive editor of George magazine. He once spent four months working for the Texas Rangers baseball team as a coach at their Dominican Republic training camp. About Kurt Wilkin – Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For the past 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies.

How do the terms "Mistake enthusiast", "toxic environment survivor," and "Backyard Pizza Master" fit together?! Join us for Episode 29 to find out! Unlocking Moves dives into the pivotal moments in an entrepreneur's journey that unlocked their true potential. Many business leaders only like to talk about their success stories - but host Kurt Wilkin is a firm believer that we learn more from our stumbles and mistakes. This episode features a conversation with Mark Graban - a self-proclaimed "mistake enthusiast". We go into the gory stories that have shaped Mark's career, from starting out at General Motors, moving on to Dell and Honeywell, to working with early-stage companies and launching his own podcast. Throughout his journey, Mark has been fascinated by mistakes... not just how and why they're made, but how we REACT to them. When upper management creates a culture where failure is punished... employees live in fear and are more likely to hide their future mistakes, rather than learn from them. If you're like me and you've made your fair share of mistakes... this is the episode for you! About Mark Graban - Mark is an author, speaker, and consultant, whose latest book, The Mistakes That Make Us: Cultivating a Culture of Learning and Innovation, is available now. He is also the author of the award-winning book Lean Hospitals and Measures of Success. He consults through his company, Constancy, Inc, and is a Senior Advisor for the technology company KaiNexus. Mark hosts podcasts, including “Lean Blog Interviews” and “My Favorite Mistake.” He obtained a BS in Industrial Engineering from Northwestern University; MS in Mechanical Engineering, and MBA from MIT. About Kurt Wilkin – Kurt is a connector - of dots, ideas, and people. For the past 30 years, he has advised high-growth companies, starting his career with Ernst & Young, and today in his roles as chairman of HireBetter and managing partner of Bee Cave Capital. He's a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs and CEOs build their companies.