What it Takes Podcast

In this episode of the What It Takes Podcast, host Tuli Kraus sits down with Aaron Zutler, sales veteran, entrepreneur, and co-founder of Pop Insanity, to talk about learning to sell from the ground up, cracking the big box retail code, and how a popcorn machine that couldn’t be returned ended up becoming a nationwide brand.Aaron Zutler spent years in the trenches selling small electronics, keyboards, webcams, and peripherals, into some of the toughest buyers in retail: Best Buy, Walmart, and Target-level accounts who eat vendors for breakfast. He learned how to negotiate, how to read a room, and how to get a “yes” from people whose entire job is to say “no.”Then, almost by accident, he got introduced to a keyboard player making insane popcorn in his kitchen. That introduction, and one non-refundable popcorn machine, led to Pop Insanity, a gourmet kosher popcorn brand that landed on Oprah’s Favorite Things list, got featured on Good Morning America, and eventually earned a starring role on Marcus Lemonis’ show The Fixer.In this conversation, Aaron breaks down what it actually took, sleeping on a blow-up mattress in Muncie, borrowing money while making two weddings, building a brand with no marketing budget, and staying calm when the website crashed in the middle of Q4 holiday season.He also gets real about partnerships, hiring, what separates employees who rise from those who stay stuck, and why customer service matters just as much as the product.If you’re an employee trying to level up, a founder figuring out how to build something from scratch, or someone quietly wondering if your skills could one day work for you, this episode is exactly what you need.💡 In This Episode, We Cover:◼️ How Aaron stumbled into sales and why he says it’s the most valuable skill you can have ◼️ The insider breakdown of selling into big box retail (open to buy, end caps, markdown money and more) ◼️ The non-refundable popcorn machine that accidentally started a business ◼️ What the early days of Pop Insanity actually looked like, blow-up mattresses and all ◼️ How Oprah’s team found them at a gift show in Atlanta and what happened next ◼️ Getting on Good Morning America and landing Marcus Lemonis’ The Fixer ◼️ How COVID shifted their entire business model in their favor ◼️ The three things Aaron says you absolutely need in a business partner ◼️ What separates employees who grow fast from those who stay stuck ◼️ Why honesty, initiative, and mavatar (flexibility) matter more than any resume⏱️ Chapters:0:00 From Office Work to Closeouts: How Aaron Accidentally Got Into Sales7:45 The Art of Selling: Aggression, Etiquette & What Actually Works21:26 The Popcorn Machine That Started It All: The Origin Story of Pop Insanity29:10 Sleeping in Muncie: Building Pop Insanity From Zero39:41 Oprah’s Favorite Things: Getting Discovered at a Gift Show in Atlanta47:24 The Fixer & The Website Crash Heard Round the Warehouse52:17 COVID, Hiring & What It Actually Takes to Grow Inside a Company🔗 Connect with Aaron ZutlerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-zutler🔗 Connect with the Host - Tuli KrausInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/United RefuahUnited Refuah offers an affordable alternative to traditional health insurance through a health share program, with a monthly cost of just $500. For the first 10 listeners, use code Blackbird to get the third month free.https://unitedrefuahhs.org/Blackbird RecruitingHiring the wrong person is expensive — not just financially, but culturally.Blackbird Recruiting helps growing companies hire people who actually perform, so you can spend less time filtering résumés and more time building your business.If you’re serious about scaling with the right team, visit blackbirdrecruiting.com to learn more.

In this episode of the What It Takes Podcast, host Tuli Kraus sits down with Dr. Jonathan Donath — chiropractor, entrepreneur, and founder of Daily Giving — to talk about building a successful practice from scratch, starting a nonprofit with zero experience, and why giving tzedakah every single day might be the greatest business decision you ever make.Dr. Jonathan Donath runs a thriving chiropractic practice in White Plains, New York, where he specializes in severe neck and back conditions, helping patients avoid surgery through hands-on, drug-free treatment. But outside the office, he's the president and CEO of Daily Giving — a non-profit that has distributed over $29 million to more than 100 Jewish organizations worldwide, funded entirely by people giving just $1 a day.What started as an epiphany in a shul parking lot after watching a YouTube video about a near-death experience turned into a global platform with 24,000 givers across 51 countries — distributing over $24,000 every single day to orphans, widows, cancer patients, poverty relief, kiruv, Torah, and more.In this conversation, Dr. Donath opens up about what it's really like to run two full-time operations simultaneously, the business mistakes he made early on, why he almost gave up in the first few months of Daily Giving, and the mindset shift around maaser that he wishes someone had told him at 21.If you're interested in entrepreneurship, nonprofit building, chiropractic as a career, the power of giving, or simply building something that actually matters — this episode will leave you inspired, challenged, and probably ready to sign up for something.💡 In This Episode, We Cover:◼️ How Dr. Donath chose chiropractic over traditional medicine—and built a practice from zero◼️ The real salary numbers behind owning vs. working in chiropractic◼️ Why going out-of-network was the best decision he ever made◼️ The near-death experience video that sparked the idea for Daily Giving◼️ How he grew from 100 signups to 24,000 givers across 51 countries◼️ The operational reality of running an $8.8M/year nonprofit with a small team◼️ Why every dollar donated goes directly to tzedakah—with overhead funded separately◼️ The maaser habit he wishes he’d started at age 21◼️ How he hires, the personality tests he uses, and why warmth can’t be trained◼️ The mindset of “failure is not an option”—and what it actually costs you to believe it⏱️ Chapters:0:00 From Minneapolis to White Plains — The Road to Chiropractic10:13 Building the Business — Overhead, Patients & the Golden Handcuff Trap26:51 The Near-Death Experience Video That Changed Everything36:29 What Daily Giving Actually Is — How $1/Day Moves Millions49:42 From 100 Signups to 24,000 Givers Across 51 Countries1:04:27 Hiring, Personality Tests & Building Teams That Work1:08:07 Maaser, Mindset & the Cheat Code to a Better Life🔗 Connect with Dr. Jonathan DonathInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdonath/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjonathandonath/🔗 Connect with the Host - Tuli KrausInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/United RefuahUnited Refuah offers an affordable alternative to traditional health insurance through a health share program, with a monthly cost of just $500. For the first 10 listeners, use code Blackbird to get the third month free.https://unitedrefuahhs.org/Blackbird RecruitingHiring the wrong person is expensive — not just financially, but culturally.Blackbird Recruiting helps growing companies hire people who actually perform, so you can spend less time filtering résumés and more time building your business.If you’re serious about scaling with the right team, visit blackbirdrecruiting.com to learn more.

In this episode of the What It Takes Podcast, we sit down with Rabbi Benjamin Heinemann — CEO of BP Print Group, founder of the BP Weekly, and one of the most quietly inspiring business leaders you've never heard of. With over 100 employees, clients across the US, Canada, Israel, and Australia, and 37 years of building from the ground up, Rabbi Heinemann has one simple answer for how it all happened: Hashem.What started as a young kollel guy hanging a sign in a coffee room turned into a full-scale printing empire. We talk about the real story behind building a business with emunah at the center — the tough hires, the COVID payroll decisions nobody said thank you for, the backwards journal that changed his davening forever, and the Mincha minyan that literally made his neighbor's best month in business.This episode isn't just about printing. It's about what it really takes to build something lasting — with integrity, gratitude, and your eyes wide open to everything Hashem is doing around you.If you're an entrepreneur, a business owner, or someone who wants to bring more meaning into how they work and lead — this conversation will stay with you.💡 In This Episode, We Cover:◼️ How a kollel guy with a computer became a 100+ employee CEO ◼️ The print shop takeover that happened in under a year ◼️ Starting a Mincha minyan at work — and watching business take off ◼️ The “backwards journal” story that rewired his entire approach to davening ◼️ Why the money you have is literally your personal mun ◼️ The maaser system he’s used since day one — and why it always works ◼️ What actually makes a great employee (hint: it’s not their salary ask) ◼️ The COVID raise he gave that nobody said thank you for ◼️ Why most job ads are a complete waste of money ◼️ How BP Weekly grew from 1,200 families to 18,000+ ◼️ Stop selling price — sell your differentiator ◼️ Is printing dying? His bold, honest take on the future ◼️ AI, Kodak, and why you have to think futuristic or get left behindChapters:0:00 Intro & Guest Welcome2:05 How It All Started4:49 Taking Over Joe’s Print Shop8:38 Opening His Own Shop10:45 Bringing Hashem Into the Business18:02 The Backwards Journal Story32:27 Maiser, Money & The Mun39:35 What Makes a Great Employee44:11 The COVID Raise & Recruiting53:27 The BP Weekly Origin Story1:00:35 Sell Your Differentiator, Not Your Price1:12:03 Closing Story & Final Thoughts🔗 Connect with Rabbi Benjamin HeinemannLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-heinemann-a02a6a18Instagram (BP Print Group): https://www.instagram.com/bpprintgroup/🔗 Connect with the Host - Tuli KrausInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/🎙 Sponsored by:DabblDabbl is an all-in-one platform where kids and teens can explore a wide range of lessons—from music, art, and cooking to photography, wilderness skills, and money management—without the hassle of commuting or expensive one-on-one classes. For just $25 a month, learners get access to all courses designed to bring them off-screen into real-life skills. Listeners can use code TK-20 for 20% off athttps://justdabbl.com/United RefuahUnited Refuah offers an affordable alternative to traditional health insurance through a health share program, with a monthly cost of just $500. For the first 10 listeners, use code Blackbird to get the third month free.https://unitedrefuahhs.org/Blackbird RecruitingHiring the wrong person is expensive — not just financially, but culturally.Blackbird Recruiting helps growing companies hire people who actually perform, so you can spend less time filtering résumés and more time building your business.If you’re serious about scaling with the right team, visit blackbirdrecruiting.com to learn more.

In this episode of the What It Takes Podcast, we sit down with Eli Weber, CEO of Weber Media and host of the Podsitivity Podcast, to talk about building a social media business from scratch, the mindset behind entrepreneurship, and how content can turn into real revenue.Eli Weber is the founder of Weber Media, a social media marketing company that helps businesses maximize the potential of social media, content creation, and personal branding to generate real profits. What started as helping a musician manage social media accounts eventually turned into a growing agency managing multiple brands and business profiles.Before entrepreneurship, Eli worked in construction management, overseeing hundreds of workers and long commutes every day. But he quickly realized that a traditional job wasn’t fulfilling the life he wanted to build. That realization pushed him to explore online business, social media marketing, and digital entrepreneurship, eventually launching Weber Media.In this conversation, Eli shares how he landed his first client, what he learned about the Instagram algorithm, LinkedIn growth, and modern social media strategy, and why social media today is no longer just about followers — it’s about interest-based content that platforms distribute to the right audience.We also dive into the mindset required to build a business: staying positive, taking responsibility for outcomes, handling rejection, and learning not to take every client decision personally.If you're interested in entrepreneurship, building a social media agency, content marketing, personal branding, or starting an online business, this episode is packed with insights that will help you think differently about opportunity and growth.💡 In This Episode, We Cover:◼️ How Eli Weber built a social media marketing business from scratch◼️ The mindset shift that pushed him toward entrepreneurship◼️ His early career managing construction teams◼️ Landing the first paying client for Weber Media◼️ How the Instagram and LinkedIn algorithms work today◼️ Why social media is now “interest media” instead of follower media◼️ The difference between branding, marketing, and advertising◼️ The emotional challenges of running a business◼️ Why anyone can start a side hustle or online business today◼️ How content creation can generate real business opportunities⏱️ Chapters:0:00 The Positivity Principle4:26 From Hardhat to Hustle — The Construction Years25:25 What Social Media Actually Is (And What It Isn't)28:16 The Business of Storytelling — Real Clients, Real Results42:05 Building a Team, Setting Boundaries, and Getting Out of Your Own Way47:28 Trust the Process — Lessons, Mindset & What He'd Do Differently🔗 Connect with Eli WeberFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ellin.web/LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/eli-weber1🔗 Connect with the Host - Tuli KrausInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/🎙 Sponsored by:DabblDabbl is an all-in-one platform where kids and teens can explore a wide range of lessons—from music, art, and cooking to photography, wilderness skills, and money management—without the hassle of commuting or expensive one-on-one classes. For just $25 a month, learners get access to all courses designed to bring them off-screen into real-life skills. Listeners can use code TK-20 for 20% off athttps://justdabbl.com/United RefuahUnited Refuah offers an affordable alternative to traditional health insurance through a health share program, with a monthly cost of just $500. For the first 10 listeners, use code Blackbird to get the third month free.https://unitedrefuahhs.org/Blackbird RecruitingBlackbird Recruiting helps growing companies hire people who actually perform, so you can spend less time filtering résumés and more time building your business.If you’re serious about scaling with the right team, visit blackbirdrecruiting.com to learn more.

In this episode of the What It Takes Podcast, we sit down with Rabbi Raps — the Rabbi of Social Media — who has built a community of 2M+ followers by bringing Torah, confidence, and unapologetic Jewish identity to the digital world.What started as simply sharing thoughts online turned into a global platform. We talk about what really happens when a Rabbi goes viral — the backlash, the hate, the pressure, and the responsibility that comes with millions of people watching. Rabbi Raps opens up about confronting antisemitism head-on, staying authentic in an algorithm-driven world, and why purpose always matters more than popularity.From Torah to TikTok, from raising proud Jewish kids to having real conversations about the Noahide movement, this episode goes far beyond social media strategy. It’s about courage. Identity. Leadership. And what it truly takes to show up boldly when the world would rather you stay quiet.If you’re building something online — or trying to lead with more confidence in your own life — this conversation will challenge and inspire you.💡 In This Episode, We Cover:◼️ How Rabbi Raps built 2M+ followers without chasing trends◼️ The viral moment that changed everything◼️ Dealing with hate, backlash, and public criticism◼️ Faith vs. algorithms — and staying real online◼️ Addressing antisemitism on a massive platform◼️ The responsibility that comes with influence◼️ Raising confident Jewish kids in today’s climate◼️ The Noahide movement and global Torah conversations◼️ The emotional cost of visibility◼️ Why purpose beats popularity every time◼️ The future of Jewish leadership in the digital age⏱️ Chapters:0:00 From Atlantic City to Rabbi Raps1:53 From Shlichus to Running a Community10:08 Building Shuls & Community Growth15:13 When Social Media Changed Everything17:02 Going Viral, Algorithms & Menorah Moments18:46 Humans for Noah & The 7 Laws23:34 Hate, Authenticity & Finding Your Voice27:43 Raising Confident Jewish Kids34:05 Purpose, Tafkid & Showing Up Online38:35 Confidence, Cameras & Fear of Being Seen🔗 Connect with Rabbi RapsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbiraps/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rabbiraps?lang=en🔗 Connect with the Host - Tuli KrausInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/🎙 Sponsored by:DabblDabbl is an all-in-one platform where kids and teens can explore a wide range of lessons—from music, art, and cooking to photography, wilderness skills, and money management—without the hassle of commuting or expensive one-on-one classes. For just $25 a month, learners get access to all courses designed to bring them off-screen into real-life skills. Listeners can use code TK-20 for 20% off athttps://justdabbl.com/United RefuahUnited Refuah offers an affordable alternative to traditional health insurance through a health share program, with a monthly cost of just $500. For the first 10 listeners, use code Blackbird to get the third month free.https://unitedrefuahhs.org/Blackbird RecruitingHiring the wrong person is expensive — not just financially, but culturally.Blackbird Recruiting helps growing companies hire people who actually perform, so you can spend less time filtering résumés and more time building your business.If you’re serious about scaling with the right team, visit blackbirdrecruiting.com to learn more.

In this episode of the What It Takes Podcast, we sit down with Rabbi Nachman Seltzer—a prolific Jewish author, Torah educator, and former music director who has quietly built a decades-long career at the intersection of faith, creativity, and impact.Rabbi Seltzer shares his journey from writing his first book by hand on a bus at 23 to publishing over 56 books, including Torah works that sold 70,000+ copies worldwide. He opens up about the realities of the publishing world, why novels rarely sell, how biographies and Torah books create lasting influence, and what most aspiring writers misunderstand about success.The conversation also explores his unexpected exit from the Jewish music and choir world, how industry shifts forced hard decisions, and why knowing when to quit can be just as important as knowing how to start. From turning ancient Torah texts into modern movements to offering grounded advice for writers, creators, and those considering Aliyah, this episode is a masterclass in long-term thinking, creative discipline, and purpose-driven work.Whether you’re a writer, educator, creator, or someone navigating career pivots through faith and practicality, this episode delivers lessons that only come from 25 years of doing the work.💡 In This Episode, We Cover:◼️ Writing his first book at 23—and why it was written entirely on a bus◼️ How a single real-life story became a bestselling Jewish novel◼️ The business reality of publishing: royalties, advances, and distribution◼️ Why most novels fail—and what actually sells in Jewish publishing◼️ Turning an out-of-print Torah sefer into a global learning movement◼️ How storytelling makes Torah accessible to thousands worldwide◼️ Why passion isn’t enough—and how market awareness shapes success◼️ Leaving a thriving music and choir career at the right time◼️ How the Jewish music industry changed—and why CDs ended the model◼️ Balancing faith, creativity, family, and parnassah◼️ Advice for writers, creators, and those considering Aliyah◼️ Why longevity matters more than trends in any creative career⏱️ Chapters:0:00 From Shabbos Table to a Global Torah Movement2:56 Writing a First Novel by Hand (And Getting Published)12:01 The Sefer That Sparked a Worldwide Learning Revolution21:32 Choirs, Creativity & Walking Away From Music27:16 Writing for Impact, Not Sales🔗 Connect with Rabbi Nachman SeltzerLinkedIn: https://il.linkedin.com/in/rabbi-nachman-seltzer-a719849Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B086K3HW5P🔗 Connect with the HostTuli KrausInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/🎙 Sponsored by Blackbird RecruitingTired of sorting through unqualified résumés?Blackbird Recruiting helps you hire people who actually perform—so you can focus on growing your business.Learn more at blackbirdrecruiting.com

In this episode of the What It Takes Podcast, we sit down with Abe Breuer, CEO of John To Go—a self-made entrepreneur who built a multi-million-dollar empire in an essential but often overlooked industry and achieved a successful private equity exit.Abe breaks down his 20-year journey from selling his first computer company as a teenager to scaling a portable sanitation business into a $50M national leader. He shares the unfiltered reality of entrepreneurship: the partner who quit during the first brutal winter, near-death cash flow moments, and the unconventional employee strategy that turned a secretary into a $280k-a-year partner.This conversation is a masterclass in resilience, operational scaling, and leadership mindset. Whether you’re starting a service business, struggling to scale, or curious about exits and life after selling, this episode delivers hard-earned lessons you won’t find in textbooks.💡 In This Episode, We Cover:◼️ How Abe built his first company at 16 and sold it for $25k◼️ The “walk between the drops” philosophy learned from his parents◼️ Scaling revenue to $50M without losing control◼️ The partner who walked away—and the brother who stayed to build a legacy◼️ Managing ADHD as a superpower using pen, paper, and ruthless systems◼️ Why Abe never gives raises—and the bonus system that creates extreme loyalty◼️ The New Yorker article that changed everything and attracted private equity◼️ The harsh reality of scaling too fast and running out of cash◼️ Selling the business: identity loss, regret, and what comes next◼️ His current venture in the challenging world of assisted living (ALFs)⏱️ Chapters:0:00 Intro – Meeting in the Shul & the Founder of John To Go10:11 Early Hustle – Selling a Computer Company at 1616:11 First Major Bet – Buying a 24-Unit Building with $400k20:20 The Birth of John To Go – A Partner, a Stick Shift Truck & the First Winter23:02 The Pivot – Bringing His Brother in as the Right Partner32:20 Scaling Secrets – From $400k to $50M in Revenue39:45 The New Yorker Call That Changed Everything57:32 The $280k Employee – A Bonus System That Creates Partners1:04:14 Life After the Exit – Identity, Travel & Starting Over1:07:37 Final Advice – Would He Do It All Again?🔗 Connect with Abe BreuerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/breuerabe/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abe-breuer-a339725/🔗 Connect with Tuli KrausX (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKrausInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/Sponsored by Blackbird Recruiting. Tired of sorting through unqualified résumés? Blackbird Recruiting helps you hire top talent—so you can focus on growing your business.Visit blackbirdrecruiting.com to learn more.

In this episode of the What It Takes Podcast, we sit down with Hershy Goldstein, CEO and Co-Founder of FRIDAY—a SaaS founder who went from unemployment to building a thriving tech startup serving over 1,200 customers.Hershy breaks down his journey from leaving a secure career to bootstrapping and scaling a profitable, remote-first business. He shares the unfiltered reality of entrepreneurship: the moments he almost shut everything down, the pressure of scaling fast, and the leadership decisions that come with being the one in charge.This conversation is a masterclass in career decisions, startup growth, and building a sustainable business. Whether you’re considering leaving a corporate job, building a startup, or leading a remote team, this episode delivers insights you won’t hear anywhere else.💡 In This Episode, We Cover: ◼️ How Hershy turned unemployment into a SaaS startup success story ◼️ The pivotal moment that almost ended the company ◼️ Scaling to 1,200 customers without investors or venture capital ◼️ Building a fully remote team across multiple states ◼️ Recognizing when to leave a secure career to pursue entrepreneurship ◼️ Handling founder burnout and mental pressure while growing a company ◼️ How to identify, retain, and lead high-performing employees ◼️ Lessons from the accidental product pivots that saved the business ◼️ Hershy’s non-negotiable advice for first-time founders⏱️ Chapters:0:00 Intro - The $250k Question11:54 The Breakthrough: Conquering Imposter Syndrome at Fingercheck19:24 The 9-Year Grind: From Support to Manager to $250k22:30 The Coaching Epiphany: Discovering a Hidden Superpower37:19 The Final Straw: Why I Quit My Cushy Job42:09 The Wilderness: Depression, COVID, and Consulting54:10 Startup Nightmare: The Week Our Bank Vanished1:02:55 Founder Truths: Surrender, Hiring, & The Fear of Content1:20:38 Final Advice: Should You Leave Your Safe Job?LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hershey-goldstein/Website: https://fridayapp.com/X (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKrausInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/Sponsored by Blackbird RecruitingTired of sorting through unqualified résumés? Blackbird Recruiting helps you hire top talent—so you can focus on growing your business.Visit blackbirdrecruiting.com to learn more.

In this episode of the What It Takes Podcast, we sit down with Avi Singer, Founder and CEO of Showd.me - a leader who hacked the corporate ladder from day one and later built a multi-million-dollar SaaS company without raising a single dollar of venture capital.Avi breaks down his journey from a $65k entry-level role at DoubleClick (later acquired by Google) to bootstrapping and scaling a profitable, remote-first business. He shares the unfiltered reality of entrepreneurship: the moments he nearly quit, the pressure of making payroll, and the tough leadership decisions that come with being the one in charge.This conversation is a masterclass in strategic career planning, sustainable company building, and rejecting Silicon Valley hype in favor of real, durable success. Whether you’re climbing the corporate ladder, building a startup, or trying to lead a team that actually cares, this episode delivers insights you won’t hear anywhere else.💡 In This Episode, We Cover:◼️ How Avi leveraged an Ivy League degree to land his first $65k job◼️ Adopting a “future VP” mindset from day one in corporate life◼️ Why he tells 99% of people not to start a tech startup◼️ The accidental pivot from a “nice-to-have” to a true “must-have” product◼️ Building a 50-person remote team across 13 states—with no office◼️ The hardest CEO skill: knowing when to walk away from easy money◼️ How to identify, promote, and retain rockstar employees—and when to let go◼️ The servant-leadership philosophy that creates real loyalty◼️ Navigating founder identity crises and near burnout◼️ Why most software companies fail—and how to avoid the same traps◼️ Avi’s non-negotiable advice for first-time founders⏱️ Chapters00:00 From Columbia to Corporate: Hacking the $65k Start11:45 The Terminal Degree: Planning Your Career Like a Chess Game14:27 Why I Left a $250k+ VP Job to Start From Scratch21:42 The Pivot That Saved the Business30:12 Hiring (and Firing) for a Team That Runs Without You34:50 Building a Remote Culture That Actually Works53:48 The Vacation Test: How to Know You’re a Good Leader1:03:03 From Unicorn Dreams to Building a Real Business🔗 Connect with Avi SingerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/avisinger/Website: https://www.showd.me/🔗 Connect with Tuli KrausX (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKrausInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/Sponsored by Blackbird Recruiting. Tired of sorting through unqualified résumés? Blackbird Recruiting helps you hire top talent—so you can focus on growing your business. Visit blackbirdrecruiting.com to learn more.

In this powerful episode of the What It Takes Podcast, we sit down with Sam Shvarzblat, a contractor and entrepreneur who has lived both realities—being the boss and walking away from being the boss. Sam built a construction company from scratch in his early 20s, scaled it to multiple large projects, battled cash-flow pressure, burnout, family expectations, and eventually made the toughest decision an entrepreneur can make: closing his own company.This conversation is brutally honest. Sam opens up about the identity crisis founders face, the ego tied to “being your own boss,” how cash flow really works behind the scenes in construction, and why moving his family to a new community changed everything. Whether you're an entrepreneur, contractor, or someone who’s ever wondered if stepping away is failure or growth—this episode will hit home.This is a raw masterclass in humility, rebuilding, and what it really takes to balance business, family, faith, and your own well-being.💡 In This Episode, We Discuss: ◼️ Sam’s early journey into construction and why he skipped working for others ◼️ The harsh truth about being a young business owner in the trades ◼️ Why most contractors struggle with cash flow—and how to fix it ◼️ The “friends & family discount” myth ◼️ The realities of managing 10+ simultaneous construction projects ◼️ Burnout, identity, and the moment Sam knew he had to step away ◼️ Moving from Lakewood to Monsey: lifestyle, community, and values ◼️ Economic slowdown, stalled projects, and clients pulling deposits ◼️ What it feels like to shut down your own company ◼️ How Sam rebuilt his life, career, and sense of direction ◼️ What every new entrepreneur should understand before starting⏱️ Chapters00:00 When the Dream of Being Your Own Boss Starts to Crack2:19 Why I Refused to Become a Copy-Paste Contractor6:19 Friends, Family & the Truth About ‘Discount Work’7:06 Why Friends Should Pay MORE—Not Less8:26 At My Peak: Running 10 Projects with a Tiny Team10:25 The Cash-Flow Trap That Destroys Most Contractors13:10 The Question I Never Wanted to Answer: Why I Closed My Company16:46 The Commute That Broke Me: 4:30 AM Drives & Endless Inspections17:55 When Clients Pump the Brakes & the Economy Turns on You26:56 The Identity Shift of Going from a Boss to an Employee34:49 Being an Employee vs Doing Your Own Thing37:35 The Biggest Lessons I’ve Learned in These Chapters of My Life🔗 Connect with Sam Shvarzblat: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samshvarzblat/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samshvarz/🔗 Connect with Tuli Kraus: X (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/This episode is sponsored by Blackbird Recruiting. Tired of sifting through unqualified résumés? Let Blackbird Recruiting find you top talent so you can focus on growing your business. Visit blackbirdrecruiting.com to learn more.

In this insightful episode of the What It Takes podcast, we sit down with Morris Isaacson, the Chief Marketing Officer of Empeon, whose career spans more than two decades across brand strategy, digital marketing, and high-growth tech leadership. Morris has led marketing for iconic global brands like Polaroid, played a key role in a $1.1B IPO, and built data-driven marketing engines inside fast-scaling organizations.He breaks down the real evolution of modern marketing—from the creativity-first “Mad Men” era to the analytics, attribution, and performance-driven landscape companies operate in today. This episode is packed with career lessons, leadership insights, and a behind-the-scenes look at how top CMOs build brands that grow revenue, teams, and long-term impact.This is a masterclass in building a valuable career, leading high-performance teams, and staying ahead in one of the fastest-changing industries in the world.💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:◼️ Morris’s unconventional start: From psychology major to entertainment marketing◼️ Why marketing has shifted from art to science◼️ How to prove your value and win budget from data-driven CFOs◼️ The Polaroid comeback: Rebranding a nostalgic icon◼️ How to build a marketing team from zero◼️ The real ROI of trade shows — and how to execute them right◼️ Aligning sales and marketing for accurate pipeline data◼️ Career compensation: When your salary finally reflects your value◼️ What Morris looks for when hiring modern marketing talent◼️ The one skill that will make you irreplaceable today◼️ Final advice: Why doing what you love leads to a fulfilling career⏱️ Chapters00:00 Introduction & Podcast Purpose1:11 Guest Introduction: Morris Isaacson, CMO of Empeon2:18 The Unforgettable First Job Interview5:27 Early Career: From IDT to Yeshiva University9:21 The Polaroid Turnaround Story11:29 Building & Managing Marketing Teams16:35 The Evolution of Marketing: Data vs. Creativity19:08 Mastering Trade Shows & Proving ROI32:20 Career Advice: Compensation, Mistakes, and Hiring40:01 Final Thoughts: The 22-Year Career Reflection🔗 Connect with Morris Isaacson: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/misaacson/🔗 Connect with Tuli Kraus: X (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/This episode is sponsored by Blackbird Recruiting. Tired of sifting through unqualified résumés? Let Blackbird Recruiting find you top talent so you can focus on building your business. Visit blackbirdrecruiting.com to learn more.

How does faith rewire your entire career? In this powerful episode of the What It Takes podcast, we sit down with Mrs. Esther Bergman, the CFO of Chai Lifeline, who oversees a massive $45 million budget dedicated to helping families with critically ill children.Esther takes us on her incredible journey from a Spanish-speaking immigrant taking a job as a store greeter to becoming the financial leader of one of the most impactful non-profits. She pulls back the curtain on her unique philosophy that you don't work for your boss—you work for God—and shares how this mindset opened doors no résumé ever could. She reveals how a prayer for fish in Costa Rica was directly answered, the time she saved a $100M organization from collapse, and why she schedules her “depression” for 5 AM.This is a raw, inspiring, and deeply spiritual conversation about the power of showing up, the true meaning of money, and how to lead with compassion—even when you have to let someone go.💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:◼️ Esther’s journey from Costa Rica to CFO without a finance degree◼️ The Costa Rica “Fish Market Miracle” and talking to God in everyday life◼️ Her grandmother’s powerful lesson: “Money is like fire”◼️ The brutal cash flow crisis that threatened to shut down a $100M organization◼️ How to transition from an individual contributor to a leader who builds other leaders◼️ The art of firing someone with kindness and a prayer for their future◼️ Why being multi-talented can be a curse for your career◼️ The $15 million secret behind Chai Lifeline’s volunteer force◼️ How to make a lateral career move that sets you up for long-term success◼️ Her advice for anyone wanting to build a meaningful career in finance or non-profit⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Meet Esther Bergman: The CFO Who Works for God1:04 The Costa Rica Fish Market Miracle7:50 Immigrant Story: First Job as a Store Greeter in Brooklyn10:53 The Kleinfeld Bridal Breakthrough22:56 Switching from Customer Service to Finance34:51 How to Fire Someone with Compassion38:25 The $45M Budget of Chai Lifeline & The $15M Secret43:02 The Crisis: A $100M Organization Frozen by Fraud44:37 The Brilliant Idea That Saved the Company50:50 Final Advice: How to Build a Career with Purpose🔗 Connect with Esther BergmanLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/esther-bergman-87579117/🔗 Connect with Tuli KrausX (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKrausInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/This episode is sponsored by Blackbird Recruiting. Tired of sifting through unqualified resumes? Let Blackbird Recruiting find you top talent so you can focus on building your business. Visit blackbirdrecruiting.com to learn more.

The Brutal Truth About Being A Creative Director | How a Borough Park Kid Landed HBO, Polaroid, and Brother ft. Sam AshHow data and storytelling can build a career? In this episode of the What It Takes podcast, we sit down with Sam Ash (not the music store!), a marketing powerhouse and the unconventional creative mind behind iconic campaigns for HBO, Brother, Polaroid, and countless brands in the frum world.Sam takes us on a hilarious and insightful journey from his Borough Park Yeshiva days to the top of the advertising world, pulling back the curtain on how he launched the Brother P-Touch, made Paint fascinating, and why he never wears the same "professional" face twice. He shares profound lessons on faith, family, and why today's consumers don't want to think, they want to feel.This is a raw, funny, and deeply authentic conversation about the power of a great idea, the importance of knowing your "why," and what Jewish marketing is missing.💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:◼️ Sam’s journey from a Yeshiva kid in Borough Park to a sought-after creative director◼️ The hilarious story of launching the Brother P-Touch and the "aha" moment that created a new product category◼️ His philosophy that you're not selling the drill, you're selling the hole! Why benefits always beat features◼️ The challenge of balancing a demanding creative career with family life and faith◼️ Why the frum community is the last great bastion of print advertising and how to use it effectively◼️ His unexpected encounter with John Ratzenberger (Cliff from "Cheers") and the life lesson about money and family◼️ How to "niche yourself" to break into a creative career◼️ The problem with AI, SEO, and why they can't replace true talent and insight◼️ What most Jewish marketing is missing and the agencies that are getting it right◼️ His advice for business owners on how to choose the right creative agency⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Meet Sam Ash: The Unconventional Creative3:09 From Borough Park to Big Brands: A Yeshiva Kid's Origin Story5:07 The Brother P-Touch Launch: Selling the Hole, Not the Drill22:45 Faith in the Workplace: Wearing a Kippah in Corporate America27:16 The John Ratzenberger Story: A $150,000 Lesson on Priorities35:48 How to Break Into a Creative Career: Niche Yourself41:29 The State of Jewish Marketing: The Last Bastion of Print43:10 Sam's Final Advice: How to Pick the Right Creative Agency🔗 Connect with Sam AshLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samash180/🔗 Connect with Tuli KrausX (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/#WhatItTakesPodcast #Marketing #Advertising #BrandStrategy #CreativeDirector #Entrepreneurship #JewishBusiness #Startup #CareerAdvice

Episode made possible by Blackbird Recruiting. Check em out Blackbirdrecruiting.comAfter building a tech business and working with giants like Google and Microsoft, Hillel Fuld SHUT IT ALL DOWN after October 7th. He now commands one of the most powerful pro-Israel voices online, reaching BILLIONS of impressions. In this bombshell conversation, he exposes the uncomfortable truths about Zionism, the open miracles happening in Israel, and why he believes there is "zero justification" for any Jew to live outside their homeland today.Hillel Fuld is a leading Israeli tech strategist and a powerhouse advocate for Israel, with a massive following across social media platforms.IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS:◼️ The shocking reason Israel is being "decimated" in the PR war—and what they're doing wrong◼️ How Zionism is as core to Judaism as Shabbat, and the Gemara that proves it◼️ The modern-day "gun to your head" argument for why Jews must leave now◼️ Debunking the biggest Aliyah myths: salaries, language, and quality of life◼️ Incredible, open miracles from the war that prove divine intervention◼️ How the Israeli job market really works (it's not about your resume)◼️ The one thing that still drives him crazy about living in Israel after 30 years_______________________________________________________________________00:00 Introduction & Banter00:31 The Accidental Tech Guru: Hillel's Origin Story03:10 The Game-Changing Assistant & Business Transformation04:55 The October 7th Pivot: Shutting Down for Israel07:48 Why Israel is Losing the PR War10:25 Defining Zionism & The Core of Jewish Identity14:24 The Modern-Day "Gun to Your Head" Argument16:53 Addressing the "I'll Go When Mashiach Comes" Viewpoint21:54 The "Open Miracles" of the Israel-Hamas War23:58 A Personal Story of Divine Intervention: The Australian Visa29:08 Israel as a Practical Paradise: Debunking Aliyah Myths32:13 How the Israeli Job Market Really Works41:56 What Actually Drives Him Crazy About Israel48:35 The Flip Side: The Magic of Israeli Community51:22 Final Plea: Make a Plan_______________________________________________________________________CONNECT WITH HILLEL:X (Twitter): https://x.com/hilzfuldInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hilzfuld/?hl=enFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/HillelFuld/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hilzfuld/

What If Everything You Knew About Hiring Was Wrong? featuring Aaron KleinHow to build an all-star team without the sky-high costs? In this episode, we crack the code on hiring amazing talent from around the world.Tuli Kraus chats with Aaron Klein from Real Hires, who spills all the secrets on finding incredible offshore remote talent, from executive assistants and bookkeepers to tech whizzes.We explored which countries are best for specific roles, how to avoid common hiring mistakes, and the mindset shift that turns a remote hire from a cost into your best investment. If you're thinking about hiring remotely but nervous about how to make it actually work. This conversation is your game plan.💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:◼️ Transitioning from Outsourcing Problems to a Direct-Hire Remote Model◼️ Categorizing Remote Roles into Three Distinct Responsibility Tiers◼️ Matching Country-Specific Talent Strengths to Specific Job Functions◼️ Humanizing Remote Work to Build Loyalty and Increase Productivity◼️ Shifting the Focus from Employee Presence to Measurable Output◼️ The Critical Difference Between Delegating Tasks and Delegating Responsibilities◼️ Accessing a Global Talent Pool for a Better Return on Investment◼️ Avoiding the Impulsive "Shiny Penny" Approach to Hiring Remote Talent◼️ Why the Highest-Level Operational Roles Often Need to Be Local◼️ Building a Multi-Country Sourcing Strategy to Avoid Talent Shortages⏱️ Timestamps00:00 The Betrayal That Started It All5:34 From Employee to Boss: The Ultimate Power Move7:38 The Secret Global Talent Map13:27 The Shocking "Lunch Break" Mass Exodus19:50 The Big Lie About Remote Work24:56 The "Bystander Effect" is Killing Your ROI40:31 How to Build a Cult (Culture) Remotely51:55 We Hired a NASA Engineer & a Fox News Booker58:29 The TRUTH About the "Return to Office" Order1:03:23 How to Find Us & Steal Our Talent🔗 Connect with Aaron Klein Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realhires/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronklein-rh/🔗 Connect with Tuli KrausX (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/

The Car Industry Secrets | How China Is Beating Everyone at Making Cars ft. Rob FarmerHow a car goes from a simple sketch to a vehicle on the road or how a massive company like Nissan decides what to build next? In this episode, we sit down with Rob Farmer, a former top executive at Nissan, to pull back the curtain on the auto industry. From managing a global team of 50 to navigating the massive shifts caused by electric vehicles and AI, Rob shares incredible insider stories.He told us how market research is being revolutionized, why some cars get discontinued, and what it really takes to build a leadership career in a multi-billion-dollar corporation.💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:◼️ The 5-year process of building a car and why companies are desperate to cut that time in half◼️ Managing a global team of 50 people across four countries and the challenges of modern hiring◼️ Why you can’t just poach talent from Tesla or China and the creative partnerships Nissan used to upskill its workforce◼️ How AI is creating “synthetic customers” to replace focus groups and get 80% of the insights for 20% of the cost◼️ The one simple AI tool that saved Rob hours each week and why “unlearning” is the most important career skill◼️ A behind-the-scenes look at Nissan’s billion-dollar marketing budget and how they track what’s working◼️ The surprising story behind the Nissan Arya and why its interior space defies expectations◼️ How and why car companies “kill” a model from the Titan truck to the quirky Cube◼️ The future of the auto market: the coming split between “blue state” and “red state” car lineups◼️ Practical career advice on promotions, salary expectations, and balancing ambition with family life⏱️ Timestamps00:00 This Is What a Top Executive's Day Actually Looks Like2:59 You Can't Just Hire the Talent You Need Anymore7:46 AI Won't Steal Your Job, But Someone Using It Will10:44 I Saved Hours a Week With This Simple AI Hack12:02 We Replaced Focus Groups With AI Personalities17:01 How We Tracked a Billion-Dollar Marketing Budget21:37 The "Too Small" Car That Surprised Everyone27:34 From a Simple Idea to a Car on the Road44:45 Here's the Career Advice I Wish I Knew Sooner50:50 These Are the Discontinued Cars I Still Miss🔗 Connect with Rob FarmerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-farmer-1522992/ Website: https://www.rob-farmer.com/🔗 Connect with Tuli KrausX (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/

A Story of Faith & Building a Torah Community from Scratch with Yoni RodanskyWhat it takes to build a Torah community from the ground up? In this episode, we sit down with Yoni Rodansky, a Five Towns native who, along with a wave of other young families, is building a vibrant Jewish community in Louisville, Kentucky.He shares the incredible story of how they went from no daily minyan to a booming community, pulled off a $700,000 fundraising campaign, and used a clever viral marketing stunt that brought in 23 serious family inquiries in just four weeks.This is a raw look at the miracles, the hustle, and the real-life appeal of being a builder in a place where your presence truly matters.💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:◼️ How a kid from the Five Towns ended up as a community builder in Louisville, Kentucky◼️ The powerful lesson that “the yetzer hara can’t stop you, he can only make you want to give up”◼️ The clever recruitment event (with free sushi and babysitting) that first got his wife on board◼️ Why Louisville’s established infrastructure like its Eruv and affordable housing makes it a hidden gem◼️ The wild miracles of launching with no money and still making payroll every single month◼️ How they raised $700,000 for a community outside the major Jewish hubs and what resonated with donors◼️ The $10,000 raffle marketing stunt that went viral and brought in 23 family leads in just one month◼️ What kind of family thrives in Louisville (hint: it’s for builders, not just consumers)◼️ The real talk on making a living, with plenty of job opportunities and a low cost of living◼️ The incredible growth they’re seeing, with six families already scheduled to come for Shabbos⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Welcome to the Jewish Frontier in Louisville, Kentucky1:04 How a Five Towns Kid Ended Up in Kentucky2:04 The Pioneering Rabbis Who Planted the First Seeds3:18 How Tampa Built a Community Overnight4:07 The One Truth About Overcoming Any Challenge5:08 The Clever Trick That Got Wives On Board8:23 Why Louisville is the Secret Gem for Jewish Life12:02 We Launched With No Money and Witnessed Miracles17:29 How We Raised $700,000 on a Leap of Faith21:14 Our Viral Marketing Stunt That Brought 23 Families28:31 Is Louisville Your Next Home? Here's How to Know🔗 Connect with Yoni RodanskyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yoni-rudansky-15a029339/🔗 Connect with Tuli KrausX (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/

In this episode of The What It Takes Podcast, we sit down with Ron Coleman, a top-tier 1st Amendment lawyer, prominent legal blogger, and social media powerhouse with over 250,000 followers on X (formerly Twitter). Ron has built a massive online presence while maintaining a highly successful legal career, and in this episode, he opens up about how he’s navigated the intersection of law, blogging, and online influence.We dive into his journey from practicing law to becoming one of the leading lawyer bloggers in the country. Ron shares how he built his online following, the challenges he’s faced in managing his platform, and how social media has impacted his legal career and client relationships. We also discuss his experience working with the Trump team, the advice he has for attorneys looking to build their personal brand, and his thoughts on the future of the legal profession in the digital age.A special thank you to our sponsors:United Refuah HealthShareAn affordable alternative to health insurance. Learn more at http://bit.ly/46s0F6fThe 3rd month of membership is free for new applicants. Enroll by 8/31 with code BLACKBIRDMegaPayUSASimplifying payroll with cutting-edge technology and dedicated support. Visit https://www.megapayusa.com/BLACKBIRDRECRUITING to streamline your payroll process today!

The Legal Realities Every Employer (and Employee) Must Know ft. Chaim BookWhat really happens behind the scenes when businesses get sued or how small HR mistakes can cost companies thousands?In this episode of the What It Takes podcast, host Tuli Kraus sits down with Chaim Book, an employment attorney with over 30 years of experience. What starts as a conversation about Chaim’s unexpected journey into employment law, which he initially entered “kicking and screaming,” evolves into a masterclass on what every employee and business owner needs to know.We discussed the common and costly mistakes companies make, from misclassifying workers to failing to document performance issues. Chaim breaks down complex topics like remote work challenges, non-compete clauses, and even the legal tightrope of running a business with religious values.Whether you’re an employer trying to understand the payroll and HR or an employee wanting to understand your rights, this conversation is packed with practical advice, real-life stories, and essential tips to protect yourself and your business.💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:◼️ How Chaim fell into employment law by accident and started his own firm◼️ The biggest mistakes employers make, like not tracking hours or documenting issues◼️ Why misclassifying a worker as a 1099 contractor is a major risk◼️ The challenges of managing remote employees and tracking their time◼️ Getting everything in writing from offer letters to commission plans◼️ Why “at-will employment” doesn’t mean you can be unfair◼️ The legal complexities of workplace segregation for religious modesty◼️ Understanding employee rights around Paid Family Leave and maternity leave◼️ The confusing and changing rules around non-compete agreements◼️ Tips for working successfully with family members◼️ The number one takeaway: always put important agreements in writing⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Meet the Expert: An Accidental Career in Law5:11 The Entrepreneurial Leap: Starting a Law Firm From Scratch7:04 What Is Employment Law: A Lifespan Overview9:24 The 4 Costliest Mistakes Every Business Owner Makes14:10 Tracking Time and the 1099 Minefield: How to Get It Right23:16 Employee Red Flags: What to Get in Writing29:44 The Remote Work Revolution: New Challenges for Employers32:05 Discrimination, Fairness, and Why At-Will Is Not a Free Pass37:01 The Modesty Dilemma: Religious Values in the Workplace52:48 Workplace Privacy: Phones, Monitoring, and HR58:46 Inside the Courtroom: Chaim’s Most Memorable Lawsuit1:04:51 Final Takeaways: Working with Family and the #1 Rule to Avoid Lawsuits🔗 Connect with Chaim Book X (Twitter): https://x.com/chaimbook LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chaimbook/🔗 Connect with Tuli KrausX (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/

Why Your "Easy" Life Is Actually Holding You Back | Facts About Living in Israel ft. Eli FreedmanHow does a glass restoration entrepreneur from Montreal end up running a luxury wine concierge service in Israel? In this episode, we sit down with Eli Freedman, the founder of Cork & Cellar. Eli shares his incredible journey of running multiple businesses simultaneously, the life-changing decision to move his family to Israel, and how he built a new, innovative company from the ground up just months before the war began.He pulls back the curtain on the realities of making Aliyah—the bureaucracy, the fears, the mindset shift, and the ultimate rewards. From a chance encounter that saved his business to a divine-inspired idea that launched his next venture, this is a story of faith, risk, and relentless adaptation.💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:◼️ The chaotic reality of managing a full-time job and a side business simultaneously◼️ The moment he decided to move to Israel and the "absolute decision" to have no regrets◼️ The arduous, frustrating, and often comical process of Israeli bureaucracy and buying an apartment◼️ Why the "easy life" isn't the point of life, and the beauty of a simpler existence in Israel◼️ The "lightbulb" dream that sparked his luxury wine concierge business, Cork & Cellar◼️ Launching a half-million dollar business 3 months before October 7th—and how he had to pivot overnight◼️ The birth of his new wine club, shipping unique Israeli wines directly to American homes◼️ Practical, hard-earned advice for anyone considering Aliyah: from making a plan to the #1 mindset you need to survive and thrive⏱️ Timestamps00:00 The Man Who Ran a Business From His Boss's Office2:08 How a $1M Contract Almost Broke the Business5:03 The Stranger Who Flew In With a Miracle Solution9:54 The Demo Day That Almost Failed11:28 Building a Lucrative, Seasonal Empire13:52 "I'm Ready to Move to Israel" - The Decision That Changed Everything16:38 The Brutal Reality of the Aliyah Paperwork18:10 Selling Everything & The Year of Transition20:04 The Israeli Real Estate Mind Game21:03 Let Go & Let God: The Mindset for Life in Israel23:01 The Dream That Launched a Wine Business27:43 The War, The Pivot, and Saving the Business30:57 The Phone Call From Nebraska That Changed Everything33:25 Inside the Cork & Cellar Israeli Wine Club38:50 The #1 Piece of Advice for Moving to Israel🔗 Connect with Eli FreedmanLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eli-freedman/🔗 Connect with Tuli KrausX (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKrausInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/

The One Decision That Changed My Business Forever | The Laibel Schwartz StoryHow a guy shooting bar mitzvahs and weddings turned his camera into a full-scale corporate media powerhouse?In this episode of the What It Takes podcast, we sit down with Laibel Schwartz, the creative force behind the renowned photography and video company, Laibel.Laibel opens up about his journey from late-night wedding shoots to producing high-end corporate content for major brands. He shares the real ups and downs of entrepreneurship from surviving the rollercoaster economy to learning how to work with his wife as a true partner in life and business.You’ll hear how his unconventional “first three free” strategy made his headshots go viral on LinkedIn, how he found a mentor who completely changed his trajectory, and why success, in the end, isn’t about fame or money, it’s about taking care of your family, your team, and your clients.💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:◼️ The “Economic Ferris Wheel”, why some businesses rise while others fall◼️ How finding the right mentor can completely change your life◼️ The pivotal shift from wedding photography to the corporate world◼️ The real talk on working with your spouse (and making it work)◼️ The free headshot strategy that built a viral brand on LinkedIn◼️ The secret to scaling a creative business and teaching your process◼️ How to identify your true strengths and double down on them◼️ Why breaking the rules can sometimes be your biggest advantage◼️ The challenge of letting go and hiring someone to run the business◼️ What to tell yourself when the future feels uncertain and stressful⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Meet Laibel Schwartz: The Master Storyteller1:47 The Economic Ferris Wheel: Who’s Up and Who’s Down4:49 The Secret Weapon: Finding a Mentor Like David Wanunu5:48 From Weddings to Corporate - The Pivotal Shift9:58 The Ultimate Test: Working With Your Spouse15:07 The “Aha” Moment — Discovering the Power of Headshots 23:51 The “First Three Free” Rule That Built an Empire 28:01 Scaling a Creative Beast — From Laibel to Everyone Needs a Video 33:58 The Industry That Fuels His Passion: Healthcare Heroes 37:02 The #1 Underrated Skill for Creatives 43:48 Creating Your Own Game — Why Laibel Doesn’t Follow the Rules 51:05 The Final Challenge — Letting Go to Grow 59:15 The Ultimate Reassurance — A Message to His Younger Self🔗 Connect with Laibel SchwartzInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/laibelschwartzphotography/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laibelschwartz/Website: https://laibel.com/🔗 Connect with Tuli KrausX (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/

This One Lesson Cost Me a $10 Million Deal | Journey of Building a Law Firm ft. Uri KirschnerGet ready for an episode packed with hustle, heart, and some seriously crazy stories.In this episode of the What It Takes podcast, Tuli Kraus sits down with Uri Kirschner, a real estate attorney with 30 years of wild experiences from landing a Wall Street job as a determined 15-year-old to closing a multi-million dollar deal while hooked to an IV.But beyond the legal world, Uri is also the passionate founder of The 100 Ride, a charity bike event that has raised close to $5 million for local causes by leveraging one powerful idea: 100% of the donations go straight to charity.This conversation is a masterclass in seizing opportunity, the power of persistence, and building a legacy that gives back.💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:◼️ How Uri’s childhood businesses selling potato chips and Parker pens in school set the stage for his future◼️ The unbelievable story of how Uri, at 15, persistently called a CEO’s office, showed up with flowers, and landed a job that led to daily lunches with the boss◼️ How a Wall Street CEO over a kosher lunch convinced him to become a real estate attorney to be at the center of all the action◼️ Uri’s philosophy on growing a successful law practice through word-of-mouth and doing great work for clients, without any advertising◼️ The story of the empty lot he was too afraid to jump on a painful but priceless $8.5 million lesson in overcoming the fear of failure◼️ The time a deal dragged on for days and Uri had to leave the hospital with an IV bag still in his arm to get it across the finish line◼️ The joys and realities of working with family including why he made his son get experience elsewhere before joining the firm◼️ How a challenge from his rabbi sparked The 100 Ride movement, which has raised millions for Tomchei Shabbos and Kupat Ha’Ir◼️ The incredible “mini-miracles” that happen every year with the ride from rain holding off until the last second to a postponed ride becoming their best fundraising year ever◼️ Uri’s vision to raise a million dollars annually and launch a kids’ ride to get the next generation involved◼️ Why you don’t need to be a pro cyclist to participate, how the community will help you find a bike, and why you should just “jump in” and register at the100ride.com⏱️ Timestamps00:00 The $5 Million Charity Bike Ride1:00 The Donald Trump Nut & The Parker Pen Hustle3:31 The Audacious Stunt That Landed a 15-Year-Old His Dream Job6:42 The Best Career Advice Came From a Kosher Lunch9:27 From Law School to Partner in 6 Years (Without Advertising)14:04 The $1.5 Million Lesson: “Jump When You Can Jump”18:36 The Craziest Closing: IV Bag and All22:49 What It’s Really Like Working With Family25:12 The Divine Intervention of The 100 Ride33:19 The Dream: A Million Dollars & Kids on Bikes41:37 Your Invitation to Join The Family🔗 Connect with Uri Kirschner LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/uri-kirschner-1275961aa/🔗 Connect with Tuli Kraus X (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/

The Power of Storytelling | How Our Infographics Landed Million Dollar Deals ft. Brian WallaceHow data and storytelling can change lives, or how tragedy can spark faith and purpose?In this episode of the What It Takes podcast, we sit down with Brian Wallace, a master storyteller and the creative force behind NowSourcing.Brian takes us on a wild ride from his completely non-religious upbringing to becoming an observant Jew, a journey shaped by unimaginable personal tragedy. He also pulls back the curtain on his remarkable career, sharing how he helped an NBA player land a $64 million contract using storytelling and data, and how he’s made even something as simple as paint fascinating for global brands.This is a deep, emotional, and inspiring conversation about resilience, faith, and the incredible power of a great story.💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:◼️ Brian’s journey from a non-religious childhood to discovering Orthodox Judaism as an adult◼️ The concept of finding faith through “love” vs. “fear” and how tragedy can become a catalyst for profound change◼️ The heartbreaking story of losing his first child and how that loss built a foundation of unshakable strength◼️ How he helped an NBA player go from a league minimum to a $64 million contract with a “Moneyball”-style infographic◼️ His philosophy that every company is a media company, and why storytelling always beats selling◼️ The story behind his viral Psychology of Color infographic and how it made a paint brand unforgettable◼️ His creative process for turning complex ideas into engaging, shareable content◼️ How to build a network and business rooted in authenticity and real value, not cold outreach◼️ His latest venture, The Innovate Summit, brings innovators together for honest, ego-free conversations⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Meet Brian Wallace: The Master of Story1:26 From Brooklyn to the “City”: A New Yorker’s Origin Story3:22 The Spiritual Search: A Non-Religious Upbringing6:26 The Spectrum of Belief: Love vs. Fear17:45 A Story of Unimaginable Loss21:26 Finding Strength: From Tragedy to a Family of 824:28 The $64 Million Infographic30:47 The “Moneyball” of Basketball36:50 Making Paint Fascinating: The Psychology of Color40:56 Stop Selling, Start Storytelling45:11 The Creative Process: How to Build a Viral Idea48:04 What It Takes: Building a Legacy Without Ego🔗 Connect with Brian Wallace X (Twitter): https://x.com/nowsourcing Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nowsourcing LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nowsourcing/🔗 Connect with Tuli KrausX (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKrausInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/

The Side Hustle That Can Replace Your Income | Building a Career You Actually Love ft. Shaina KerenEver feel stuck in your career, wondering if this is really all there is? In this episode of the What It Takes podcast, host Tuli Kraus sits down with Shaina Keren, a renowned career coach who has helped over a thousand people to find their true potential.Shaina opens up about her own incredible journey from living in a trailer park to becoming a sought-after career strategist and shares raw, practical insights on navigating life’s biggest career questions. Together, they unpack whether college is really worth it, why personality tests often fail, and how to find meaningful, fulfilling work that actually fits you.This is an eye-opening, empowering, and refreshingly honest conversation that will change how you see your career and your purpose.💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:◼️ The surprising truth about whether college is a necessary step or just a “mirage”◼️ Why standard career and personality tests often give terrible advice (like telling someone to be a farmer!)◼️ How to know if you’re in the right career — or if it’s time to pivot◼️ Shaina’s personal journey from a spiritual, out-of-town community to running a thriving coaching business◼️ How the “Ikigai” framework helps you find work that’s fulfilling and financially rewarding◼️ A real-life case study of a recruiter who became a master watchmaker after just one coaching session◼️ Simple steps to test a business idea on the side without spending money◼️ The three most important mindset shifts to make if you’re feeling stuck or unfulfilled at work⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Introduction: Unlocking Your Dream Career1:25 From Trailer Park to Career Coach: Shaina’s Unlikely Beginnings3:50 The Israeli Dream & Building a Location-Independent Business5:32 The College Mirage: Is Higher Education Worth It?8:21 The Entrepreneurial Siblings: Building a Legacy from Scratch9:38 The Superwoman Year: Marriage, Masters, and Motherhood at 2011:48 The Path Not Taken: Why Becoming a Rabbi’s Wife Was a Bad Fit15:17 Why Standard Career Tests Are Setting You Up for Failure17:13 The Daycare Burnout: The Moment That Forced a Career Pivot26:12 The $5,500 Career Transformation: Inside the Rockport Method35:35 Case Study: From Recruiter to Master Watchmaker41:45 3 Steps to Escape a Mediocre Career (Practical Advice)🔗 Connect with Shaina Keren X (Twitter): https://x.com/kerenshaina Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shainakeren LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaina-keren/🔗 Connect with Tuli KrausX (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/

From Face Painting to 7-Figure Design Business CEO featuring Shany KaufmanHow does someone go from painting faces at kids’ parties to running a multi-million-dollar interior design firm?In this episode of the What It Takes podcast, host Tuli Kraus sits down with Shany Kaufman, the powerhouse CEO and mother of eight behind ICO Design Group.Shany shares her incredible, non-traditional journey into the world of design, revealing how one unexpected café project turned into a thriving 13-year business. Together, they talked about the raw realities of entrepreneurship, the power of grit over formal education, and the mindset that turns ordinary beginnings into extraordinary success.This is an inspiring, down-to-earth conversation for anyone who’s ever dreamed of starting from scratch and building something remarkable.💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:◼️ How a simple branding project for a café unexpectedly launched Shany’s career in interior design! Despite having zero prior experience…◼️ Her creative journey from face painting to building a seven-figure business and discovering her true calling◼️ Why Shany believes grit and genuine care matter more than a polished résumé or prestigious degree◼️ Practical advice for aspiring designers, project managers, and procurement specialists on breaking into the industry with no experience◼️ Her “Be a Nudge” philosophy, the power of ambitious persistence to get noticed and land your dream job◼️ How Shany hires based on grit over skill and her unique bathroom design test for candidates◼️ The real behind-the-scenes of business ownership, client management, and leading a creative team◼️ Shany’s pro design hacks you can try at home: dark walls make rooms feel bigger, “reverse crown” molding elevates ceilings, and why your laundry room deserves more love than your kitchen⏱️ Timestamps00:00 From Face Painting to 7-Figure CEO: Meet Shany Kaufman2:25 The Accidental Empire: How a Café Launched a Design Career6:24 Building a Brand from Scratch: Grit, Garbage Dumps & $8K Offices9:09 The Secret Sauce: Blending Interior Design with Powerful Branding11:45 How to Break Into Interior Design (With No Experience)15:36 Sponsor: Blackbird Recruiting & Everyone Needs a Video16:21 The #1 Trait That Gets You Hired (It’s Not What You Think)19:48 Hiring Secrets: Why Grit Beats a Perfect Résumé Every Time25:24 The Rollercoaster Reality of Being a Business Owner30:32 3 Pro Design Hacks to Instantly Transform Your Home🔗 Connect with Shany Kaufman Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ico.design/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shany-kaufman-683b4a78/🔗 Connect with Tuli KrausX (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/

The $150K Powerhouse | Single Mom of 8 & Nonprofit Leader ft. Esther MillerA single mom of eight who's also a high-powered executive and a total powerhouse! In this episode of the What It Takes podcast, host Tuli Kraus sits down with Esther Miller, a force of nature who earns over $150,000 a year as a “polymath” at J Companies and the Executive Director of the nonprofit Aim Higher.Esther takes us on her incredible journey from running a luxury baby clothing business out of her basement to building a career-support nonprofit from the ground up.This conversation is packed with the real talk about balancing a massive family with a demanding career, the hidden struggles of unemployed men over 40, and why giving back became a non-negotiable part of her success.💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:◼️ How Esther Miller manages her time as a single mom of eight while working two demanding jobs (her day starts at 4:40 AM!)◼️ Her unexpected path from law school dreams to becoming the “inspector whisperer” for a Yeshiva's lunch program◼️ The genius marketing move that launched her high-end baby clothing business, which she ran for nearly a decade and sold for a profit◼️ The story of how a $150,000 grant and a five-page document led her to start a nonprofit for single mothers, kicking off her career in the non-profit world◼️ The stark differences she's observed between the “sharing” culture of the corporate world and the more guarded non-profit space◼️ The hidden emotional toll of job loss, especially on men over 40, and why many suffer in silence, afraid to even tell their own families◼️ Her experience being the only woman in a male-dominated office and the hilarious culture shock of her first day (where did all the guys go at 3 PM?)◼️ Why she's a firm believer that full-time remote work can hinder collaboration and why she insists on in-person meetings for Aim Higher candidates◼️ The very real problem of ageism in hiring and the immense value that experienced professionals over 40 bring to a company◼️ A powerful story about community support and the man who started helping single mothers after a life-changing visit to a family living in poverty⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Meet Esther Miller: The $150K/yr Single Mom of 82:04 From Law School Dreams to Yiddishkeit Reality5:27 Breaking Stigmas: Women Making Six Figures7:04 The $2,000 Baby Layette: Building a Business in a Basement11:39 The Pivot: Selling a Business & A Pandemic Startup13:25 The $150K Grant That Started It All18:47 The Hidden Crisis: Men, Ego, and Unemployment23:47 The Non-Profit World vs. Corporate: A Culture Clash28:40 The Day All My Coworkers Vanished at 3 PM34:07 Why I Left Corporate for My Soul39:15 The Final Pitch: Fighting Ageism & Saving Families🔗 Connect with Esther Miller LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/esther-miller-705341190/🔗 Connect with Tuli KrausX (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/

I Was a Failed Entrepreneur (Here's How I Bounced Back ft. David Wanounou)Ever had your first big commission check ripped up right in front of you?In this episode of the What It Takes podcast, host Tuli Kraus sits down with David Wanounou, a seasoned entrepreneur and the CEO of The Trepper Plan, a business consulting company built on real-world grit, not theory.David takes us on a wild ride from his humble beginnings in Brooklyn (where his first job might’ve been “child labor”) to his rollercoaster journey in real estate, sales, and corporate America. He shares the tough lessons that shaped his “no excuses” mindset, from getting crushed early in his career to turning those setbacks into fuel for growth.This episode is packed with raw insights, real business wisdom, and the kind of perspective only earned through decades of hustle and hard lessons.💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:◼️ From his first “child labor” job filing papers to hustling in real estate without a car.◼️ The brutal story of having his first big commission check ripped up right in front of him.◼️ A simple but powerful business principle he learned from a retail client! The “Where’s The Sun?” lesson that still guides him today.◼️ How working relentlessly at IDT, even without immediate raises, built his skills and eventually helped him buy a house through stock options.◼️ Why you need to think of yourself as the CEO of your own career and stop waiting for someone else to make you successful.◼️ The importance of recognizing when it’s time to walk away from a comfortable, high-paying job to grow.◼️ How working for difficult but brilliant bosses became a crash course in next-level business thinking.◼️ His customized, non-cookie-cutter approach to business coaching that focuses on individual strengths and weaknesses - The Trepper Plan Philosophy.◼️ His controversial take on whether college is always worth it, and what truly builds value in the marketplace.◼️ The mindset shift every professional needs to take control of their own destiny.⏱️ Timestamps00:00 From Brooklyn Beginnings to a Ripped-Up Check7:10 The “Where’s The Sun?” Business Masterclass13:11 Hustle, Medical Billing & The 36-Hour Shift🔗 Connect with David WanounouX (Twitter): https://x.com/wanounou LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-wanounou-4974774🔗 Connect with Tuli KrausX (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/