Titans of Industry

In this episode of Titans of Industry, host James Onyks interviews David Schroeder, CEO of RelianceCM. They explore how David has transformed a family-owned contract manufacturing business into a modern, system-driven operation focused on serving hardware startups and established brands. David shares how the company is leveraging AI to build real-time operational visibility, allowing teams to identify and correct production issues instantly rather than relying on delayed reporting cycles. He also dives into the importance of intentional, relationship-driven growth—prioritizing a small number of high-quality customers over mass acquisition—and how highly personalized outreach strategies are outperforming traditional marketing channels. Reliance CM website: https://reliancecm.com

In this episode of Titans of Industry, host James Onyks interviews H. Adam Holt, CEO of Asset-Map. They explore how Adam transformed a career in financial advising into a fintech SaaS platform nearing $10 million in annual recurring revenue by solving one core problem: turning financial complexity into clear, visual insights. Adam shares how simplifying communication—rather than adding more analysis—became the foundation for scaling his business, and why most clients don’t need more data, but better understanding. The conversation also dives into the early challenges of building and funding a tech product, the power of word-of-mouth growth within professional networks, and how timing and market readiness—especially during the shift to remote work—accelerated adoption. Listeners will gain insight into building products rooted in real customer pain points, the importance of clarity as a competitive advantage, and how aligning vision with execution can drive sustainable growth. Asset-Map website: https://asset-map.com

In this episode of Titans of Industry, host James Onyks interviews Nick Jooma, Chief Executive Officer of Infinite Allergy Labs. They discuss how comprehensive allergy and sensitivity testing is transforming the way individuals and healthcare providers identify the root causes of chronic symptoms and improve long-term health outcomes. Nick shares insights into the company’s mission to move beyond symptom management and toward preventative, personalized healthcare through advanced food and environmental sensitivity testing. The conversation highlights the importance of educating patients and providers on identifying hidden triggers that may contribute to fatigue, digestive issues, and chronic illness, as well as the growing role of data-driven diagnostics in shaping modern healthcare strategies. Infinite Allergy Labs website: http://www.infiniteallergylabs.com

In this episode of Titans of Industry, host James Onyks interviews Will Bowden, Founder & CEO of Grasshopper Farms. They explore how building a multi-state cannabis cultivation business requires adapting to vastly different regulatory environments, climates, and market conditions while maintaining a consistent business strategy. Will breaks down the critical difference between business planning and operational execution, and how a decentralized leadership model allows the company to stay agile across states like Michigan and Colorado. Grasshopper Farms website: https://grasshopperfarms.com

In this episode of Titans of Industry, host James Onyks interviews Dustin Bowers, founder of PLAEX. They explore the realities of building a deep-tech construction startup focused on transforming waste into scalable building materials through an interlocking modular system designed for durability, reuse, and circular economy applications. Dustin shares the challenges of bringing physical innovation to market, including navigating six years of research and development, certification barriers, and the complexity of scaling hardware-based solutions compared to software businesses. The conversation also dives into broader founder lessons on fundraising in uncertain economic conditions, the importance of raising sufficient capital to withstand global disruptions, and the evolving role of AI in reshaping traditional consulting and decision-making support.PLAEX website: https://plaex.ca

In this episode of Titans of Industry, host James Onyks interviews Natalie Tincher, founder and style strategist of BU Style. They explore how modern workplaces are navigating the growing tension between generational expectations, personal authenticity, and professional brand representation.Natalie shares insights from her work helping organizations rethink outdated dress policies and communicate expectations more clearly, especially in environments where “dress for your day” messaging has created confusion rather than clarity. She also explains why style is more than appearance—it is a communication tool that builds trust, confidence, and cohesion across multi-generational teams. BU Style website: https://www.bu.style

In this episode of Titans of Industry, host James Onyks interviews Bradley Flowers, founder and CEO of Portal Insurance. Bradley shares candid insights into what it really takes to build a sustainable insurance business in an industry defined by long-term relationships, operational discipline, and retention-driven growth. He explains why venture capital and fast-exit strategies rarely align with the insurance industry’s long-tail revenue model, and how understanding customer acquisition costs, infrastructure demands, and internal capacity can make or break a growing agency. Bradley also discusses his leadership philosophy of running a business like a championship sports team—caring deeply about employees while holding them accountable and placing the right people in the right roles to drive performance. Portal Insurance website: https://portalinsurance.com

In this episode of Titans of Industry, host James Onyks interviews Daniel Plenge, digital marketing leader and former Director of Digital for Marc Jacobs. They explore how digital strategy evolved inside one of the world’s most recognizable fashion brands and what it takes to build scalable systems that keep teams moving forward. Daniel shares insights from his experience launching social platforms, email programs, and e-commerce initiatives from the ground up, explaining how stepping into gaps and taking calculated action can drive career growth and business momentum. The conversation also highlights the importance of empowering teams to make decisions, encouraging solution-based thinking, and embracing mistakes as part of continuous improvement—an approach that helps organizations adapt to fast-changing digital landscapes. Plural website: https://www.plural.co/

In this episode of Titans of Industry, host James Onyks interviews Christina Uzzardi, founder and CEO of Cheeks + Co. They explore the realities of building and scaling a modern facial and skincare business, including the mindset required to navigate uncertainty and the operational systems needed to sustain long-term growth. Christina shares how overcoming imposter syndrome and learning to trust her resilience helped shape her leadership style, especially during challenging periods when survival became the priority. The conversation also dives into practical strategies such as implementing automated email marketing flows, strengthening client retention, and reconnecting with past customers to drive repeat visits and membership growth. Cheeks + Co website: https://cheeks.co/

In this episode of Titans of Industry, host James Onyks interviews Zach Cantrell, co-owner of SmartLevel Concrete. They explore the early stages of launching a concrete leveling business and the real-world lessons that come from building a company from scratch. Zach shares how preparation, repetition, and persistence helped him and his partner secure their first sales and build early momentum, even when things didn’t go perfectly during initial client presentations. The conversation highlights the importance of systems and staffing decisions, including the realization that answering phones, managing operations, and closing sales cannot be sustained by founders alone. SmartLevel Concrete website: https://smartlevelconcrete.com

In this episode of Titans of Industry, host James Onyks interviews Jay Mason, Founder and CEO of Paint EZ, a fast-scaling painting franchise built on systems, training, and operational consistency. Jay shares how the company evolved from a small, hands-on operation into a national franchise network with over 80 locations by focusing on delegation, leadership development, and building repeatable systems that allow operators with no prior painting experience to succeed. He breaks down the pivotal mindset shift that changed the trajectory of the business—from attempting to control every aspect in the early stages to intentionally hiring and empowering people who are stronger in their respective roles.The conversation also explores how franchising structure, dedicated coaching, and standardized processes enable rapid expansion while maintaining quality, and how the business balances growth with ongoing support for franchise partners to ensure long-term success. Jay also highlights the importance of surrounding yourself with higher-level operators and continuously investing in personal development to avoid becoming the limiting factor in your own business. Paint EZ website: https://paintez.com/

In this episode of Titans of Industry, host James Onyks interviews John McDonald, founder of McDonalds Products LLC, the company behind the innovative Twist Brite lighting technology.They discuss how a simple sketch on a napkin evolved into a patented LED lighting solution designed to simplify dimming and improve energy efficiency without requiring additional hardware. John shares insights into the early stages of building a hardware-based business, including filing patents quickly, funding development through hands-on work, and educating consumers about a completely new product category.The conversation also explores the strategy behind developing practical features like twist-to-dim functionality and emergency backup lighting, as well as the long-term vision of scaling through partnerships with retailers, hotels, and large distributors. This episode provides valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and product developers on moving from concept to commercialization, maintaining product quality, and building momentum in a competitive manufacturing market.Twist Brite website: https://twistbrite.com

In this episode of Titans of Industry, host James Onyks interviews Robert Patton, Founder and CEO of SHEATH Underwear. Robert shares the remarkable origin story of how a simple need for comfort in the Iraqi desert evolved into a pioneering dual‑pouch apparel brand that has transformed the underwear category and built strong customer loyalty. Listeners will learn how Robert’s military experience shaped his approach to product innovation and entrepreneurship, why bold product confidence and customer‑first guarantees helped turn early skeptics into repeat buyers, and how he navigated early failures and market skepticism to grow a direct‑to‑consumer business. Along the way, he unpacks the importance of relentless iteration, trust‑building with customers, and leveraging unique design to stand out in a crowded apparel market. This episode highlights key lessons in bootstrapping, product strategy, and the power of authentic founder vision in driving sustainable growth. SHEATH Underwear website: https://www.sheathunderwear.com/

In this episode of Titans of Industry, host James Onyks interviews John Richter, Senior Director of Affordable Housing & Senior Living Development at Richter Landscape Company. They explore how relationship-first thinking drives long-term business success, particularly in industries where trust determines whether partnerships last decades or disappear after a single project. John shares insights on why transactional mindsets limit growth and how intentionally building trust with clients, contractors, and partners creates repeat business and long-term sustainability. The conversation highlights lessons learned from service failures and lost clients, emphasizing how accountability and consistency strengthen reputation over time. They also discuss how staying on preferred bidder lists and maintaining strong professional relationships relies not just on technical performance but on reliability, communication, and care—principles that help organizations remain competitive and respected across years of projects and partnerships.Richter Landscape Company website: https://www.richterlandscape.com

In this episode of Titans of Industry, host James Onyks interviews Natasha Dadwani, founder of BURDLIFE. Natasha shares the story behind building her jewelry business from grassroots beginnings at farmers markets and pop-up events into a growing retail brand known for permanent jewelry, piercings, and curated styling experiences. She reflects on the role of resilience, family support, and calculated risk-taking in shaping her entrepreneurial journey, and explains how starting small allowed her to test demand, build loyal customers, and refine her brand identity over time. Throughout the conversation, Natasha highlights the importance of community-driven growth, staying adaptable in retail environments, and trusting the process even when the path looks unconventional.BURDLIFE website: https://www.burdlife.com

In this episode of The Titans of Industry, host James Onyks interviews Randy Lorensen, CEO of Premium Cabinets. Randy shares how he built scalable systems inside his business to support dealers and eventually transformed those internal tools into solutions that could serve entirely new markets.The conversation explores how operational processes such as reputation management, automated marketing, and streamlined workflows can evolve into revenue-generating products when leaders recognize their broader value.Randy also discusses his passion for demystifying money through storytelling, explaining how financial literacy impacts nearly every life decision—from career paths to lifestyle choices—and why simplifying complex financial ideas through engaging narratives can help people better understand and manage money.Premium Cabinets website: https://premiumcabinets.com

In this episode of Titans of Industry, host James Onyks interviews Jack Galante, owner and winemaker of Galante Vineyards. They explore how a relationship-driven approach, slow and intentional growth, and a strong focus on customer experience helped shape the winery’s long-term success. Jack shares how prioritizing community over rapid expansion allowed the business to create lasting customer loyalty while maintaining creativity through constant experimentation with new blends alongside signature wines like their well-known Blackjack Pasture Cabernet Sauvignon. The conversation also highlights the importance of partnerships and collaboration—particularly how working with complementary businesses and hosting engaging events helped expand brand reach while strengthening relationships with customers. Galante Vineyards website: https://galantevineyards.com

In this episode of Titans of Industry, host James Onyks interviews Donald Booth, CEO and founder of the American Institute of Nondestructive Testing. They explore the evolving world of nondestructive testing (NDT) and the long-term career opportunities available in a field that continues to grow alongside advancements in technology. Donald shares how continuous education and certification can transform NDT into a lifelong profession, allowing technicians to expand into specialized roles such as corrosion analysis, pipeline inspection, and advanced procedure development. The conversation also highlights the growing role of automation and artificial intelligence in defect recognition, including how emerging technologies are accelerating inspection speed while still requiring human expertise for complex, real-world applications. American Institute of Nondestructive Testing website: https://www.trainingndt.com/

In this episode of Titans of Industry, host James Onyks interviews Tricia Salcido, former owner and longtime leader of Softstar Shoes. They discuss how what began in 2005 as a modest wholesale-focused baby shoe business transformed into a thriving e-commerce brand through experimentation, customer feedback, and strategic pivots. Tricia shares the early uncertainty surrounding the company’s direction and how launching an online store quickly shifted the focus from wholesale to direct-to-consumer sales, improving margins and allowing the brand to grow sustainably. A major turning point occurred when customers began using Softstar’s simple slippers in unexpected ways, including running and adopting barefoot-style movement, revealing a market opportunity that reshaped the company’s product development and long-term strategy. She also reflects on how embracing e-commerce early enabled the company to adapt to changing consumer habits and build a loyal customer base around handcrafted minimalist footwear made in the United States. Softstar Shoes website: https://www.softstarshoes.com

In this episode of Titans of Industry, host James Onyks interviews Jacob Lawson, owner and managing member of Extraordinary Flooring LLC, a Southeast Louisiana‑based concrete flooring and coating specialist with over two decades of experience serving commercial, industrial, and residential clients. Jacob shares how trusting his intuition and strategic decisions helped him transform a struggling startup into a resilient business that has delivered thousands of flooring solutions across Jefferson Parish, Orleans Parish, and the greater New Orleans area, and discusses the importance of understanding real profitability, building nimble operations that adapt to changing project schedules, and establishing reliable systems for lead generation and team management. Extraordinary Flooring website: https://extraordinaryflooring.com

In this episode of Titans of Industry, host James Onyks interviews Alex Blum, founder and CEO of Applied Bioplastics. The conversation explores why the global bioplastics industry has struggled to achieve profitability despite massive investment and growing demand for sustainable materials. Alexander explains how Applied Bioplastics approaches the problem differently by combining inexpensive agricultural waste with recycled plastic to create stronger, lower-cost, and potentially carbon-neutral materials. He discusses how traditional bioplastics production methods often consume large amounts of energy and can emit greenhouse gases comparable to conventional plastic manufacturing, while his company’s approach relies on simpler processes like drying and grinding plant-based cellulose to preserve the carbon captured during plant growth. Applied Bioplastics website: https://appliedbioplastics.com

In this episode of Titans of Industry, James Onyks interviews Matthew Lockemy, the owner of M&M Garage Doors. They discuss the challenges and opportunities of running a garage door business in Michigan, the importance of digital marketing, and the dynamics of family involvement in business. Matt shares his journey from college to entrepreneurship, the impact of partnerships like Costco, and the significance of having strong systems and processes in place. The conversation also touches on marketing strategies, building a strong company culture, and the importance of continuous learning and leadership.M&M Garage Doors website: https://mandmdoors247.com

In this episode of Titans of Industry, host James Onyks interviews Channing Baker, the CEO of Evolve Contractors, who shares his inspiring journey from a family legacy in construction to leading a $10 million business. Channing discusses his transition from general contracting to specializing in commercial roofing, emphasizing the power of strategic partnerships and systemized operations. He highlights the importance of leveraging technology and building a mission-driven company that empowers minorities and supports community growth. Discover how Channing's focus on relationships and innovative systems has enabled Evolve Contractors to scale rapidly and sustainably.Evolve Contractors website: https://www.evolve-contractors.com

In this episode of Titans of Industry, host James Onyks interviews Brad Strawbridge, the CEO of Capital City Roofing, who shares his remarkable journey in the roofing industry. Brad discusses his transition from a decade-long career at Lowe’s to founding his own successful roofing company. He emphasizes the importance of building robust systems over relying solely on skills, which played a crucial role in scaling his business to eight figures in just two years. Brad also highlights his innovative approach to licensing technology and empowering contractors with enterprise-level systems. Capital City Roofing website: https://capitalcityroofing.net

In this episode of Titans of Industry, host James Onyks interviews Carlos Sanchez, the owner of Continental Roofing, who shares his journey in the roofing industry spanning over 31 years. Carlos discusses his transition from working for a large roofing company in Houston to starting his own business in Cincinnati. He emphasizes the importance of overcoming fear and gaining self-confidence, which played a crucial role in his decision to become an entrepreneur.Continental Roofing website: https://contiroofco.com/

In this episode of Local Service Leaders, host James Onyks sits down with James Turner, Charlotte's leading roofing contractor, to discuss the journey from Alabama to Charlotte and the growth of his roofing business. Turner shares insights on the importance of trust, transparency, and education in the roofing industry, and how these elements have contributed to his success. The conversation also touches on the role of technology and social media in modern business practices.Best Roofing Now website: www.bestroofingnow.com/

In this episode of Titans of Industry Podcast, host James Onyks interviews Alyssa Rogers from Rogers Heating and Cooling. They discuss the journey of growing a local business, the importance of community involvement, and the role of digital marketing in expanding their reach. Alyssa shares insights on leadership, building a strong company culture, and the challenges of managing a growing team.Rogers Heating and Cooling website: https://www.callrogers.com/

Join host James Onyks as he sits down with Jeremy Atkinson from ContractingPro, a leader in the local service industry. Discover how Jeremy transformed his company from a $3 million to a $13 million powerhouse by leveraging innovative marketing strategies and building a strong team. In this episode, Jeremy shares insights on navigating the digital landscape, the importance of establishing solid business foundations, and the power of authentic leadership. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this conversation is packed with valuable lessons on growth and success in today's competitive market.ContractingPro website: https://www.mycontractingpro.com

Welcome to Titans of Industry, where we speak with the leaders building behemoths in their space. These are the companies that will one day be household names recognized by everybody for their success and what they've built. From defining moments to hard earned lessons, we explore the strategies, mindset and leadership behind the giants of tomorrow. Now, if you're ready, let's meet today's Titan.