Ground Up Growth

In Part 2 of Ground Up Growth, Paul Hopper and Hannah Pittman continue their conversation with Webb Emerson, owner of Form Design Build. Webb shares how mentorship, leadership, and staying lean have helped grow his Jackson, Mississippi construction company in just three years. The episode covers hiring the right people, outsourcing weaknesses, building company culture, why in-person relationships still win business, and how AI is impacting the construction industry. If you’re an entrepreneur, contractor, or small business owner looking to scale the right way, this episode is packed with practical insight.    

In this episode of Ground Up Growth, Paul Hopper and Hannah Pittman sit down with Webb Emerson, owner of Form Design Build, to talk about building a modern construction company from the ground up. Webb shares his journey from growing up around job sites in Memphis to earning a construction degree from Mississippi State University, gaining experience in large-scale commercial construction, and eventually launching his own business in Jackson, Mississippi. The conversation dives into how Form Design Build is reshaping the traditional construction model through a design-build approach that combines architecture, engineering, and construction under one roof. Webb explains why this streamlined process creates a better experience for clients, reduces friction, and often delivers stronger long-term value than the standard bid process. They also discuss branding, marketing, and why many construction companies overlook the power of a strong message and consistent presence online. Webb shares how intentional branding, company culture, and long-term thinking have helped Form grow quickly in just three years. If you're interested in entrepreneurship, construction, leadership, or building a business with vision, this episode delivers practical insight and real-world perspective.

In Part 2 of this episode of Ground Up Growth, Cameron Hartley dives deeper into what it really takes to scale a business—and the risks that come with it. After building a successful equipment company, Cameron shares the high-stakes decision to invest everything into a new location in Gluckstadt, Mississippi—a move he knew would either make him or break him. From navigating drought seasons that cut revenue in half to managing cash flow in a seasonal business, this episode pulls back the curtain on the realities most entrepreneurs don’t talk about. We also explore: The “commit first, figure it out later” mindset How to build a business that serves both contractors and everyday customers Why customer service—not products—is the true foundation of growth The importance of community, relationships, and long-term vision What scaling actually looks like after early success If you’re in the middle of building, growing, or betting on your next big move, this episode will challenge the way you think about risk, resilience, and what it takes to win long-term.

In this episode of Ground Up Growth, we sit down with Cameron Hartley, owner of Hartley Equipment Company in Gluckstadt, Mississippi, to unpack his journey from cutting grass as a teenager to building a thriving, multi-division equipment business. Cameron shares how he started working at just 14 years old, built a landscaping company with over 100 accounts and 16 employees, and ultimately made the bold decision to leave college and bet on himself. We dive into the realities of entrepreneurship—from managing teams and burnout to spotting opportunity and pivoting into the outdoor power equipment industry. You’ll hear how Cameron transitioned from landscaping to launching Hartley Equipment, built strategic relationships, and scaled his business into a one-stop shop for contractors across Central Mississippi. He also shares lessons on work ethic, risk-taking, leadership, and what it really takes to grow a business from the ground up. If you're an entrepreneur, small business owner, or someone looking for real-world insight into building something from nothing, this episode is packed with practical takeaways and inspiration.

What does it actually look like to build a business without losing who you are? In Part 2 with Grace Sturdivant (OtoPro Technologies), we go beyond the origin story and into the real decisions that shape a business—scaling vs. staying lean, product vs. service, and growth vs. identity. Grace shares how she turned a single relationship into a major opportunity with MeatEater, why she refuses to sign exclusivity deals, and how she’s built a profitable company with zero debt—all while prioritizing people over products. We also talk about: The hidden challenges of growth and scaling Building a relationship-driven brand Competing without compromising your values Entrepreneurship as a mother Practical advice for women forging their own path This episode is for entrepreneurs, business owners, and anyone trying to build something that lasts. 👉 Subscribe for more conversations on business, entrepreneurship, and growth from the ground up.

In this episode of Ground Up Growth, we sit down with Grace from OtoPro Technologies, a Mississippi-based hearing protection company redefining how people think about hearing health. Grace shares her journey from growing up in Grenada, Mississippi, to becoming a Doctor of Audiology and building an unexpected business from the ground up. What started as a simple desire to help friends and family protect their hearing turned into a nationwide service model—connecting clients with a network of hundreds of clinics across the U.S. and beyond. We dive into the powerful connection between hearing loss and cognitive decline, the gaps in traditional healthcare systems, and how Grace identified a real-world problem and built a business around solving it. She also opens up about balancing motherhood and career, taking risks without a clear roadmap, and building a lean, service-first company that thrives on relationships and word-of-mouth. This episode is a conversation about following conviction, creating opportunity where others see obstacles, and building something meaningful—one relationship at a time.

In this episode of Ground Up Growth, we sit down for part 2 with Lonnie Stevenson—owner of Circle S Incorporated, industrial cleaning company leader, and former PBR Finals bull rider—to talk about what it truly takes to build a successful business from the ground up. Lonnie shares how his rodeo background shaped his work ethic, discipline, and values—and how those same principles helped him grow a company rooted in quality, opportunity, and team culture. We dive into: Why hard work and consistency still win in any industry The importance of taking pride in your work—even in the toughest jobs How strong leadership creates six-figure opportunities for employees The role of core values, faith, and responsibility in long-term success Why you don’t need a college degree to build something meaningful Lessons from influential mentors and building a people-first business Lonnie also shares stories from his time traveling the world as a professional bull rider, insights on leadership, and his perspective on what’s missing in today’s workforce. If you’re an entrepreneur, business owner, or someone looking to grow in your career, this episode is a powerful reminder that success isn’t complicated—it’s built on discipline, integrity, and showing up every day ready to work.

From bull riding arenas to industrial job sites, Lonnie Steverson’s story is built on grit, risk, and resilience. In this episode of Ground Up Growth, Lonnie—owner of Circle S Incorporated—shares how a family business that started with painting and “figuring it out” evolved into a multi-state industrial cleaning operation. After losing his father at just 20 years old, Lonnie and his mom worked to keep the business alive, eventually growing it into a company with 80+ employees serving plants across the Southeast. Along the way, Lonnie was also chasing a different kind of dream—competing as a professional bull rider in the PBR. He opens up about that chapter, the injuries that changed his path, and the moment he chose to go all-in on the business. This conversation is about more than hydroblasting and hard jobs—it’s about leadership, earning respect, taking care of your people, and learning the work from the ground up. If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to build something that lasts, this one’s for you.

In Part 2 of our conversation with Nick Newcomb, CEO of StorageMax, we dive into the realities behind the self-storage industry—an asset class many people assume is easy “mailbox money.” Nick shares the real challenges of building and operating self-storage facilities, including development hurdles like wetland mitigation, construction complications, and the everyday operational issues that come with managing dozens of locations and customers. We also discuss: • The biggest pain points in the self-storage business • Real estate development challenges most people never see • Why self-storage isn’t as passive as people think • Market shifts affecting storage demand today • Competition from large REITs and national operators • How StorageMax builds community relationships and brand loyalty • Using AI and automation in the storage industry • The future of StorageMax and expansion into RV parks and new markets If you're interested in real estate investing, entrepreneurship, self-storage development, or building a long-term family business, this episode gives an honest look inside one of Mississippi’s largest storage companies.

In this episode of Ground Up Growth, we sit down with Nick Newcomb, CEO of StorageMax, the largest self-storage operator in Mississippi. Nick shares his path from growing up on a Delta farm to leading a multi-state self-storage portfolio with nearly 40 locations across Mississippi, Alabama, and Louisiana. We dig into his early career in commercial real estate, the hands-on years spent learning every level of the StorageMax operation, and how a focus on systems, people, and customer experience helped scale the business through multiple market cycles. This conversation covers: -What self-storage really looks like behind the scenes (hint: it’s not just “metal buildings and mailbox money”) -The difference between traditional storage and Class A developments -How post-2008 and post-COVID markets shaped StorageMax’s growth strategy -Why systems, technology, and consistency matter more than rapid expansion -Nick’s role in state and national self-storage associations and industry advocacy This episode focuses on Nick’s career journey and leadership philosophy. In Part Two, we’ll go deeper into the operational realities of the self-storage industry—pain points, acquisitions, and what it actually takes to scale. If you’re interested in real estate, operations, or building a durable business from the ground up, this one’s for you.

In this episode of Ground Up Growth, we continue our conversation with Tuk Tuk Boom owner Will Puckett. Will gets real about what it actually takes to build a business from the ground up—especially in the restaurant industry. We dive into the realities of labor shortages, managing emotions and personalities, learning to delegate, and surviving burnout when the pressure is nonstop. From opening a restaurant with zero experience to navigating leadership, trust, and long hours, Will shares the unfiltered lessons most people never talk about. This conversation is for anyone who feels stuck in a job they hate, has an idea they keep putting off, or needs the reminder that the hardest part is simply starting. If you’ve ever asked yourself “What if I just did it?” — this episode is for you. Topics covered: Labor challenges and skilled staffing Delegation, leadership, and trust Burnout and recalibrating as a business owner Taking risks without a safety net Why passion matters more than experience

In this episode of Ground Up Growth, Paul Hopper is joined by first-time co-host Hannah Pittman and guest Will Puckett, founder of Tuk Tuk Boom. Will shares the unfiltered, behind-the-scenes story of how a finance major with zero culinary background walked away from insurance, reverse-engineered Thai recipes on a Belhaven back porch, and built one of Mississippi’s most loved fast-casual restaurant brands. From a stolen truck that sparked an unexpected friendship, to cooking curries in crawfish pots during COVID, to growing a team of nearly 90 employees across two locations—this episode is a true ground-up story. The conversation dives into risk, timing, humility, culture, and the people who make a business work—including the powerful story of the team member who helped make Tuk Tuk Boom possible. This is part one of a two-part conversation, focused on Will’s background, the origin of the idea, and the messy early days of building something from nothing. Part two will dig deeper into labor, leadership, and scaling a business once the doors are open. If you like honest entrepreneurship stories, this one’s for you.

In Part 2 of this conversation, Paul sits down again with Hannah Pittman, owner of Pittman Marketing, to go deeper into what it really means to build a brand that lasts — and how marketing is changing as people grow tired of being marketed to. Hannah shares the story behind her recent rebrand, why clarity matters more than creativity alone, and how rebranding should signal a real shift in business strategy — not just a new logo. From there, the conversation expands into market trends, the evolution of social media, and why relationship-driven marketing is becoming more powerful than ever. They also talk about: Why authenticity is replacing overproduction How human behavior is reshaping marketing strategies The shift from constant posting to meaningful touchpoints The importance of brand consistency in a distracted world Collaboration over competition in business Why word-of-mouth is still the most powerful form of marketing How Ground Up Growth is expanding and evolving moving forward This episode is for business owners, entrepreneurs, and leaders who want to grow with intention, build trust, and create brands that actually connect. 🎧 Listen in and get grounded in what marketing looks like next.

In this episode of Ground Up Growth, Paul sits down with Hannah Pittman, owner of Pittman Marketing — and the person who’s been behind the scenes producing the podcast from day one. For the first time, Hannah steps in front of the mic to share her story: from growing up in the Mississippi Delta, to working in corporate marketing, to building her own agency while raising a young family. She opens up about the early entrepreneurial moments that shaped her, the leap from corporate to freelance, and what it really looks like to grow a service-based business without losing your values. This episode also marks a big milestone for the show — Hannah is officially joining Ground Up Growth as a co-host, bringing a new perspective and deeper conversations to future episodes. If you’re a business owner navigating growth, leadership, or the jump from employee to entrepreneur, this one will feel familiar. 🎙️ Part 1 focuses on Hannah’s background and journey 🎙️ Part 2 dives into marketing, rebranding, and what business owners should be thinking about in 2026   Follow Ground Up Growth on Instagram and Facebook for episode clips, updates, and behind-the-scenes content.

In this episode of Ground Up Growth, Dr. John David Johnson breaks down the full owner-occupant design-build process — from buying off-market land to designing, financing, and building a custom veterinary clinic with no construction experience. This conversation is packed with real-world insight for entrepreneurs, business owners, and operators who want to own their location instead of leasing. We talk land selection, city approvals, financing delays, personal risk, and why relationship-first business still wins. If you’re considering building your own facility, this episode gives you the clarity and confidence to take the next step. Ground Up Growth is a podcast about building real businesses from the ground up — through land, relationships, risk, and long-term thinking. Hosted by Paul Hopper, each episode brings practical conversations with operators, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders who are doing the work.

In Episode 25 of Ground Up Growth, Paul sits down with Dr. Jon David Johnson, owner of The Vet Depot in Flora, Mississippi. Jon David shares his path from growing up in West Tennessee to becoming an award-winning veterinarian and business owner in Madison County. They unpack his early work ethic, journey through veterinary school at Mississippi State, and the realities of owning and building a clinic from the ground up. Jon David also dives into how private equity has changed the veterinary industry, why he chose to buy land and build instead of buying an existing practice, and the risks that came with betting on himself. The conversation explores delayed gratification, disciplined decision-making, building culture intentionally, and what sets The Vet Depot apart through transparency, availability, and hands-on leadership. Jon David also shares insight into Depot Direct, a service designed to bring convenience to clients while supporting local businesses. This episode is a candid look at entrepreneurship, long-term thinking, and what it really takes to build something that lasts.   Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

In part two, Trey Bozeman dives into the nuts and bolts of running Bozeman Meat Company. He explains how his team raises, finishes, and markets cattle directly to consumers—bypassing traditional feedlots and packers. Discover: How a small-batch, local beef operation works from farm to table The challenges and rewards of running a direct-to-consumer meat business Trey’s vision for serving his community and growing sustainably Perfect for anyone curious about ranching, beef production, and entrepreneurial innovation in agriculture. "Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

Kick off 2026 with Trey Bozeman, fourth-generation cattle farmer and co-founder of Bozeman Meat Company. In this first part, Trey shares his journey from growing up on a Mississippi cattle ranch to building a farm-to-table beef business. Learn how he: Took his family’s cow-calf operation and created a small-batch, direct-to-consumer beef company Navigated COVID-19 challenges to rethink the food system Combines ranching expertise with creativity and entrepreneurship to serve his local community If you’re interested in beef industry insights, ranching, and building a business from the ground up, this episode is for you. "Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

On this special episode of Ground Up Growth, we are combining some of the standout conversations from the top episodes of 2025. From life in the major leagues to home foreclosure to running a grocery store, each episode of Ground Up Growth has provided insight through real-life experience. Be sure to check out the full episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube. Episodes Featured: 0:29 - Paul Hopper 7:44 - Austin LaSource 13:45 - Adam Black 21:35 - Tyler Moore 29:34 - Michael Dier 37:48 - Parker Sullivan 45:18 - Jason Ramsey 50:23 - George Malvaney   If you're enjoying this podcast, be sure to rate and review. And if you are interested in being a guest on this podcast or have someone to recommend please email us at [email protected].

In this episode of Ground Up Growth, Paul sits down with three owners behind two businesses: Brick City Drugs and Vital Care. Drew Hegi, John Hegi, and Wade Phillips share how they built their businesses from the ground up—balancing late-night side work, full-time jobs, and the grit it takes to stay the course. They unpack what real partnership looks like, how to grow with people you trust, and why slow, steady grinding often wins out over flashy shortcuts. It’s a conversation about commitment, collaboration, and betting on your own momentum. Full episodes are also available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. "Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

This episode of Ground Up Growth features Joseph Simpson, Airline Pilot for SkyWest. Joseph shares more about his upbringing, journey to becoming a pilot, and what his day-to-day looks like.  "Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

Morgan Springfield is the owner and founder of Springfield Heating & Air, a trusted HVAC company serving Jackson, Mississippi, and surrounding communities. With a hands-on approach and a commitment to honest, dependable service, Morgan has built his business from the ground up—one satisfied customer at a time. What started as a one-man operation and a few tools in the back of his truck has grown into a reputable company known for quality work, reliability, and genuine care for customers. On this episode of Ground Up Growth, Morgan shares his journey of entrepreneurship, the lessons he’s learned about running a service-based business, and how building strong relationships has been the key to his success. "Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

Don Clark, Jr. is an Attorney and Former Chairman at Butler Snow LLP in Ridgeland, Mississippi, with decades of experience in public finance, government relations, and economic development law. He has played a key role in shaping Mississippi’s major finance and incentive legislation, including the creation of the Mississippi Development Bank and tax increment financing statutes. Known for his deep expertise and leadership, Clark has represented both public entities and major financial institutions in complex bond and development projects across the state.   "Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

Bridgforth Rutledge is a partner at Phelps Dunbar in Jackson, where he leads the business practice group. He’s spent his career working on commercial real estate development, helping clients with everything from land deals and financing to building out major projects. Beyond real estate, he also serves as outside counsel for businesses, guiding them through day-to-day decisions and big transactions. With experience ranging from local developers to multi-state corporations, Bridgforth brings a practical, big-picture perspective to business and growth. "Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

Alex Eaton is the founder and owner of Aplós, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant with locations in Jackson and Ridgeland, MS. His vision was to bring fresh, flavorful, and approachable dining to the community, drawing inspiration from the casual eateries of Italy, Greece, and the Middle East. Through his passion for great food, creative spaces, and community-driven dining, Alex continues to shape Mississippi’s culinary scene. "Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

George Malvaney is the Managing Partner of E3 Environmental Services, where he leads with decades of experience in environmental compliance, emergency response, and business management. He is also the author of Cups Up: How I Organized a Klavern, Plotted a Coup, Survived Prison, Graduated College, Fought Polluters and Started a Business, a powerful memoir that chronicles his extraordinary journey of redemption and resilience. From a storied past to becoming a respected entrepreneur and environmental leader, George’s story reflects his belief in accountability, second chances, and the power of determination to create meaningful change.   "Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

As a First Vice President with Advisory & Transaction Services, Grant Ridgway focuses on commercial brokerage, financial analysis, market research and marketing strategies. His primary responsibilities in Jackson include direct leasing and sales of office and industrial space.  He is a fourth generation real estate broker in Jackson, Ms. Since opening the Jackson office, Grant has participated in 1,400 transactions totaling approximately $1.25 billion in value.   "Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

Long-time mentor to Paul, Stephen Cook joins the podcast for episode 13. Stephen is the Owner of Southern Land & Timber. Hear more about Stephen's journey to starting the business and the ins and outs of the timber industry. "Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

Episode 12 features Jason Ramsey, Owner and CEO of Ramsey Land & Drainage Services. From being an aircraft technician in the Air National Guard to owning a Land & Drainage company, Jason shares his journey to entrepreneurship and valuable life lessons he's learned along the way.   "Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

Episode 11 features, Leisha Pickering, Founder & CEO of Musee Bath. Mother of five and inspiring change maker, Leisha believed that a quality bath product, made by hand, could provide jobs for individuals. Moreover, she holds a guiding principle that everyone has value and that everyone should be valued - looking at one’s potential, not simply his or her past. From the humble beginnings in her kitchen, Musee quickly established itself in the bath product industry. Currently, Musee is the largest wholesale producer of bath balm in the country with 3,000 partnered stores in all 50 states. Musee has launched soaks, candles, soaps, shower steamers, and lotions with plans for new products in the near future. "Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

Episode 10 features Drew Smith, Deputy Chief of the Watershed Division at the Mississippi Valley Division (US Army Corps of Engineers). Born and raised in the delta, Drew has spent his life around the Mississippi River. He shares educational insight into how the river works, the Corps of Engineers structure, and his experience as a W2 employee.  "Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

This episode features Will Martin, Director of Operations at Service Specialists. From a college football career to the inner workings of a recruiting and staffing firm, Will shares insights into what it takes to grow in your career and follow God's path. "Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

On this episode of Ground Up Growth, our host Paul Hopper is in the hot seat! This episode allows you to hear Paul's story and gain insight into his perspective on building success and continually growing. He shares key insights from his childhood along with the many successes and failures he's faced on his journey.  "Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

On Episode 7 of Ground Up Growth, Parker Sullivan, Owner of Sullivan's Grocery & Sullivan's Marketplace, sat down with Paul to share what it is like owning multiple grocery stores, what goes on behind the scenes, and how they have grown tremendously in the last few years. "Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

On this episode of Ground Up Growth, John Manning of Manning & Manning Construction shares his path to owning his company, what it was like to navigate COVID as a new business, and valuable lessons his parents instilled in him at a young age. Learn more about his journey and take a look at what it's like being in the construction industry.   "Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

On this episode of Ground Up Growth, Patton Ford of Ford Plumbing & Air joins us to discuss his path to entrepreneurship. From his initial calling during a mission trip to Haiti, to the start of Ford Plumbing & Gas in 2017, and its evolution to Ford Plumbing & Air, Patton and Paul discuss it all. Recently voted as Madison County's Best Plumbing Service, their passion is to introduce the next generation of young men to the plumbing industry while providing a quality product and top-notch service. "Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

Episode 4 of Ground of Growth features business leader, Adam Black. Adam is a leader in the banking industry but has quite a unique journey for how he got there. Learn more about Adam's different turns, challenges, and triumphs over the years.   "Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

Episode 3 of Ground of Growth features entrepreneur, Austin LaSource. Austin is the Owner of It's Vinyl Y'all, Mississippi’s leader in wide-format printing, vehicle wraps, signage, and more. Hear about Austin's journey to entrepreneurship and the many things that have shaped him along the way. "Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

Welcome to Episode 2 of Ground of Growth! This episode features Tyler Moore, former professional baseball player and now successful business owner. Hear more about Tyler's baseball career and personal development, dabble in real estate, and learn what owning a health and nutrition business is like.   The purpose of this podcast is to uncover insightful stories about entrepreneurs, business leaders and self-development. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up. This podcast is brought to you by Hopper Real Estate Leaders. (601)724-1435

Welcome to the debut episode of Ground Up Growth. The purpose of this podcast is to uncover insightful stories about entrepreneurs, business leaders and self-development. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up. Episode 1: Michael Dier, Owner, Watkins Construction and Roofing