Knoodle Founders Hour

PODCAST · business

Knoodle Founders Hour

Welcome to Knoodle Founders Hour, the ultimate destination for deep-dive interviews with company founders. Every week, we pull back the curtain on the startup journey, exploring the raw stories behind innovative brands. From the "lightbulb moment" to scaling through the struggle, we talk entrepreneurship, leadership, and the grit required to build something from nothing. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur looking for a business roadmap or a seasoned leader seeking inspiration, join us for tactical advice and powerful founder stories. Watch and listen as we build the future.

  1. 18

    RSW Founder Mark Sneider

    Why Ad Agencies Hate Going After New Business (And How to Fix It)In this episode of the Knoodle Founder's Hour, host Rosaria Cain sits down with Mark Sneider, founder of RSW, to unpack the often-dreaded task of agency new business development.After a decade in corporate marketing and a stint running domestic operations for a global marketing research firm, Mark recognized a universal truth: marketing agencies do a great job managing their clients' businesses, but they usually struggle to manage their own. Agency principals are often the ones left trying to make time for cold calls—a task they generally despise. That is exactly where RSW steps in, helping agencies find qualified leads, set meetings, and nurture prospects until they are ready to close.In this episode, you’ll discover:The Myth of the Dead Cold Call: Why picking up the phone is still one of the most reliable ways to break through the noise, and why a consistent, multi-channel approach—including physical mail—is essential for standing out.The Impact of AI on Prospecting: How artificial intelligence is increasing productivity for list-building and meeting preparation, but also creating a cluttered market filled with over-promising competitors.The Reality of a New Business Director: Why the role requires a blend of strong sales experience, resilience, and a supportive, non-cutthroat culture to survive constant rejection.Navigating Market Uncertainty: How to handle unpredictable economic times and "marketer over-reactivity" through strategic program development and consistent outreach.The Power of Bringing Value: Inspired by advertising legend Leo Burnett, why giving away your best thinking and providing continuous strategic counsel is the ultimate differentiator in a crowded industry.Whether you're an agency founder, a sales professional, or an entrepreneur navigating market shifts, this episode is a masterclass in resilience, smart prospecting, and building meaningful business connections.

  2. 17

    Marketing Forensics Founder Jos Anshell

    We sit down with advertising veteran Jos Anshell, founder of Marketing Forensics and the strategic mind behind the iconic former agency, Moses Anshell.In this episode, host Rosaria Cain peels back the curtain on a career that spans from the disciplined halls of Unilever to the high-stakes world of airline marketing. Jos shares his philosophy on why branding is about the "benefit to the consumer" rather than just selling a product, and why he believes the best strategic breakthroughs happen on a basketball court rather than in a boardroom.In this episode, we dive into:The Power of Consistency: Why a "red Yankee hat" is a branding sin and how subconscious cues like the "Golden Arches" define market leaders.The Human Element: Jos reflects on his legendary partnership with Louie Moses at his former agency, and why mutual respect is the foundation of great work.The Challenger Mindset: Lessons from Peter Piper Pizza, America West Airlines, and how to take on industry giants like Procter & Gamble.Marketing Forensics & The Future: How Jos’s current focus on management and succession planning is helping legacy companies thrive, plus his candid thoughts on how COVID-19, remote work, and AI are reshaping the agency world.A Surprising Finale: Stick around until the very end to hear Jos reveal a hidden talent that leaves Rosaria—and our listeners—speechless.Whether you're a marketing student, a business owner, or an advertising enthusiast, Jos’s insights on running a business and maintaining brand integrity offer a masterclass in longevity.

  3. 16

    Dentaltown Founder Howard Farran

    In this episode of The Knoodle Founder's Hour, host Rosaria Cain sits down with Dr. Howard Farran, the visionary founder of Dentaltown. Howard shares his remarkable entrepreneurial journey, from launching a pioneering online community for dentists back in 1999 to his current investments in artificial intelligence.Operating at the crossroads of dentistry, technology, and media, Howard explains how Dentaltown was built on a simple but powerful premise: no dentist should ever have to practice solo again. Beyond technology and business strategy, Howard brings a refreshingly candid perspective to the realities of healthcare, the necessity of customer empathy, and his own personal transformation from struggling with high blood pressure to completing three consecutive Ironman triathlons.Whether you are a seasoned business owner or an aspiring founder, Howard's insights offer a masterclass in innovation, resilience, and prioritizing what truly matters.Key Takeaways from This Episode:Spotting the Next Big Thing: How Howard recognized the massive potential of the early internet through AOL and Amazon, and why he believes AI will completely define the next 20 years.The Reality of Entrepreneurship: Why building a successful business relies heavily on sheer persistence and intellectual curiosity rather than just innate brilliance.Leading with Empathy: The importance of understanding that customers (or patients) are often scared and anxious, and why simply listening to them is the best way to predict the future of your industry.Health is the Ultimate Wealth: Howard's wake-up call regarding his physical health, his journey to rewire bad habits—like swapping out his Rocky Road ice cream addiction for Greek yogurt—and the importance of taking care of your body to maintain a sharp mind.Conquering Fear: Why taking the leap into business ownership is best done before you let fear hold you back, and why we shouldn't live our lives guided by anxiety.Tune in for an engaging, high-energy conversation that reminds us all that business, just like life, is a marathon, not a sprint!

  4. 15

    American Solar and Roofing Matriarch Joy Seitz

    Joy Seitz is redefining what leadership and ethical business mean in the renewable energy sector.In this episode, host Rosaria Cain sits down with Joy Seitz, Matriarch of American Solar and Roofing, to explore her powerful advocacy for women's rights, corporate diversity, and clean energy.This conversation goes far beyond just installing solar panels. Joy explains the deep interconnectedness of women’s equality, community building, and environmental protection. She breaks down the realities of the modern energy landscape, the massive power consumption of new data centers, and why she firmly rejects predatory solar leasing models in order to protect consumers.You’ll also hear Joy’s remarkable career journey, from her early work in lobbying and venture capital to stepping up as Matriarch to right-size her company during difficult times. She shares how navigating childhood trauma fueled her visionary drive, and how she balances that energy with deep humility to build an employee-first company culture.In this episode, you’ll discover:How empowering women with rights and equality directly leads to stronger communities and a focus on Mother Earth.Why Joy took a brave stance against solar leasing models to protect low-income and elderly homeowners from predatory sales tactics.The growing energy demands of data centers and why citizen-owned home solar and storage are critical for grid resilience.How implementing the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) and Traction methodologies completely changed her world and gave her a life back.The distinct difference between a visionary leader and an integrator, and why a company absolutely needs both to thrive and scale.Joy’s personal reflections on the importance of self-love, setting strict boundaries with customers, and protecting employee weekends.Whether you’re an entrepreneur, an advocate for clean energy, or someone passionate about building diverse and ethical corporate cultures, this episode is packed with insights.If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to buck industry trends, lobby Congress for consumer protection, and scale a business with unwavering conviction, this episode is a must-listen.

  5. 14

    Legend Acres Founder Kristi Kay May

    Kristi Kay May is redefining what dog training really means.In this episode of Knoodle Founders Hour, host Rosaria Cain sits down with Kristi Kay May, founder of Legend Acres, to explore a powerful approach to dog and horse behavior built on positive reinforcement, force-free methods, and fear-free training.This conversation goes far beyond sit, stay, and obedience. Kristi explains why many behavior issues, including barking, overstimulation, reactivity, and destructive habits, are often rooted in emotional regulation, not disobedience. She breaks down how animals learn, why so many owners unintentionally miss critical early development windows, and what it really takes to build trust, communication, and lasting behavior change.You’ll also hear Kristi’s remarkable founder journey, from growing up with horses and starting her first business as a kid, to serving in the Army, working in veterinary medicine, and eventually building a business centered on helping both animals and their humans thrive.In this episode, you’ll discover:What positive reinforcement really means, and what most people get wrong about itWhy many dog behavior problems are not obedience issuesHow dogs use behaviors like barking, digging, spinning, and chewing to self-sootheThe critical puppy development gap most owners never realize existsWhy communication with your dog must go both waysHow Kristi built a one-of-a-kind business blending animal behavior, veterinary insight, and entrepreneurshipThe lessons she learned from horses, military service, and building a business from the ground upWhether you’re a dog owner, animal lover, entrepreneur, or someone fascinated by behavior and communication, this episode is packed with insights that will completely change how you think about training.If you’ve ever wondered whether your dog is being stubborn, misunderstood, or simply trying to tell you something, this episode is a must-listen.

  6. 13

    Exceptional Sales Performance Founder Connie Kadansky

    Why do so many smart, capable people struggle with sales—and what’s actually holding them back?In this episode of Knoodle Founders Hour, host Rosaria Cain sits down with Connie Kadansky, a globally recognized sales expert and coach specializing in call reluctance and prospecting psychology—the hidden barriers that stop even experienced professionals from picking up the phone and growing their business.Connie breaks down one of the biggest misconceptions in modern business: that content, automation, or inbound leads can replace the fundamentals of selling. Spoiler—they can’t. Instead, she reveals what truly drives sales success—and why it starts with mindset, not tactics.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why prospecting is still the #1 driver of sales growth—and why most people avoid itThe real reason behind call reluctance (and how to overcome it)How “untrue assumptions” quietly sabotage your ability to sellWhy content marketing alone will never replace direct outreachThe 5 characteristics of a truly qualified prospectHow to use simple but powerful techniques like “no questions” and labeling to improve conversationsWhy sales is really just negotiation—and how to master itThe mindset shift that turns prospecting from fear into a repeatable systemConnie also shares her own unexpected journey—from becoming call reluctant herself to building a decades-long career helping others break through the same barriers.Whether you’re a founder, marketer, salesperson, or business leader, this episode will challenge how you think about selling—and give you practical tools to start closing more deals immediately.If you’ve ever hesitated before making a call, avoided outreach, or felt stuck trying to generate new business—this episode will change how you approach sales forever.Listen now and learn how to get your “ask” in gear—and finally turn opportunity into revenue.More Info and Full Transcript: https://knoodle.com/podcast/exceptional-sales-performance-founder-connie-kadansky/

  7. 12

    Sweet Dee's Bakeshop Founder Danielle O'Day

    What if a bakery wasn’t just about desserts—but about creating unforgettable experiences?In this episode of Knoodle Founders Hour, host Rosaria Cain sits down with Danielle O’Day, founder of Sweet Dee’s Bakeshop, to explore how creativity, storytelling, and relentless execution turned a passion for baking into a thriving, multi-dimensional brand.Danielle isn’t just a pastry chef—she’s a creator in every sense of the word. From cactus-shaped macarons flavored with roasted corn and mesquite honey to interactive desserts you can paint or dip, her work blends art, flavor, and emotion into something customers don’t just eat—they remember. In this conversation, Danielle shares how her process starts not in the kitchen, but in a journal—where ideas evolve into fully immersive experiences, seasonal pop-ups, and completely original creations that keep customers coming back.You’ll hear:How Danielle transforms creativity into a repeatable business systemWhy her goal is to create a full sensory experience—not just a dessertThe power of “whimsy” and originality in standing out in a crowded marketHow interactive and customized desserts create emotional connections with customersThe story behind building Sweet Dee’s during one of the most pivotal moments in her lifeWhy mastering gluten-free, vegan, and inclusive baking became a competitive advantageWhat it really takes to be a founder—from mindset and discipline to managing chaos and creativityDanielle also opens up about the realities of entrepreneurship—early mornings, long days, and the mental discipline required to turn vision into execution—while staying grounded in purpose and creativity.Her superpower?“I can create my way into anything—and out of anything.”If you’re a founder, creative, or anyone trying to turn passion into a business, this episode is a masterclass in building something people don’t just buy—but feel.Listen now and discover how creativity, intention, and a little bit of whimsy can turn a simple idea into an unforgettable brand.

  8. 11

    The Purple Society Founder Anthony Conti

    What would you do if your child was given two weeks to live?In this deeply moving episode of Knoodle Founders Hour, host Rosaria Cain sits down with Anthony Conti, founder of The Purple Society—a grassroots nonprofit born from a father’s fight to save his daughter’s life.After his 12-year-old daughter Nitalia was diagnosed with a rare brain tumor, Anthony entered a world most parents never imagine—navigating broken healthcare systems, searching global clinical trials, and refusing to accept “there’s nothing more we can do.” What followed became a mission that’s now helping families across the country fight pediatric cancer with better tools, better information, and—most importantly—hope.This episode reveals:The raw, behind-the-scenes reality of a pediatric cancer diagnosisHow one father built an early AI-powered system to track global clinical trialsWhy most families are forced to navigate life-or-death decisions aloneThe critical role of advocacy, network, and second opinions in survivalHow The Purple Society directly impacts families—not institutionsThe truth about what’s broken in the healthcare system—and how to fight backYou’ll also hear the powerful story of how a young girl’s compassion sparked a movement—one that now provides research, financial relief, and emotional support to families in the trenches.This is more than a founder story. It’s a masterclass in resilience, purpose, and what it really means to show up when everything is on the line.If you’ve ever wondered how one person can turn unimaginable pain into impact—or how to navigate crisis when the stakes couldn’t be higher—this episode is one you won’t forget.Listen now and discover how hope, technology, and human connection are changing the fight against pediatric cancer.More info and full transcript available here:https://knoodle.com/the-purple-society-founder-anthony-conti-on-the-knoodle-founders-hour-podcast/

  9. 10

    Paws Abroad Founder Marisa Hoskins

    Moving your life across borders is hard. Moving your pets? Even harder.In this episode of Knoodle Founders Hour, Marisa Hoskins—founder of Paws Abroad—breaks down the hidden chaos behind international pet travel and how she’s building the first true infrastructure layer for a fragmented, outdated industry.After spending thousands of dollars and navigating confusing, inconsistent regulations just to move her own dogs, Marisa realized something shocking: there was no centralized system to manage global pet travel. What followed is a startup redefining the space—think “Expedia for pet travel”—with digital pet passports, personalized compliance plans, and a growing global platform designed to give pet owners clarity, control, and peace of mind.This conversation goes beyond logistics. You’ll hear how Marisa:Turned personal frustration into a multi-billion-dollar opportunityBuilt a global platform now operating across 14+ countriesApplies systems thinking to scale complex, personalized experiencesLeverages customer data to continuously refine and future-proof her productBalances technology with a deeply human, trust-first customer experienceWhether you're a founder, a frequent traveler, or someone who refuses to leave their pet behind, this episode reveals the untapped potential in solving real-world friction—and what it takes to build something people genuinely need.If you’ve ever wondered why pet travel feels so broken—and what it takes to fix it—this episode is for you.More Info and a Full Transcript: https://knoodle.com/podcast/paws-abroad-founder-marisa-hoskins

  10. 9

    PMO Squad Founder Joe Pusz

    What does it really take to lead change inside a business? In this episode of The Knoodle Founder’s Hour, host Rosaria Cain sits down with Joe Pusz, founder of PMO Squad, to uncover the hidden power of project management—and why it’s becoming one of the most critical business disciplines in the modern economy.Joe explains why every major business transformation—from launching new products to entering new markets—is actually a project, and why companies that master project management gain a massive competitive advantage.From his early career managing complex initiatives at major organizations to launching his own consulting and staffing firm, Joe shares the entrepreneurial journey behind PMO Squad, including the risks, setbacks, and breakthrough moments that shaped his success. He also reveals how a simple push from his wife inspired him to build the company from scratch—and why persistence through uncertainty ultimately paid off.Along the way, Joe and Rosaria explore:Why project management drives innovation and change in every industryThe biggest misconceptions companies have about project managersHow talent shortages and staffing challenges are reshaping the fieldThe role of marketing and brand awareness in scaling a consulting firmHow AI and emerging technology could transform project management careersWhy the next decade may require millions of new project managers worldwideJoe also opens up about leadership, company culture, and what many people misunderstand about entrepreneurs: behind every successful business is a founder who deeply cares about their team and clients.If you’re a founder, executive, or leader navigating growth, innovation, and change, this conversation offers practical insights on building teams, leading transformation, and staying competitive in a rapidly evolving business landscape.Keywords:project management, leadership, entrepreneurship, business transformation, PMO Squad, project manager careers, AI and project management, business innovation, consulting business growth, talent acquisition, change management, business strategyRead more and a full transcript:https://knoodle.com/pmo-squad-founder-joe-pusz-on-knoodle-founders-hour-podcast/

  11. 8

    TTR Executive Coaching Founder Derick Brownell

    How many people are quietly stuck, unfulfilled, or running on empty at work—even if they look successful on paper?In this episode of The Knoodle Founders Hour, host Rosaria Cain sits down with Derick Brownell, co-founder of TTR Executive Coaching, to unpack what’s really behind underperformance and burnout—and how leaders can turn it around with a coaching framework that’s both structured and human.Derick shares the four pillars he and his team use to pinpoint what’s holding people back:Technical expertise: Is confidence getting crushed by imposter phenomenon?Tactical awareness: Are you actually in the role you think you’re in—or serving a different job than you signed up for?Energy management: What routines (exercise, spirituality, habits) restore confidence and performance—and what drains it?Social + cultural behaviors: How workplace norms and relationships impact engagement, resilience, and resultsRosaria and Derick also connect coaching to sales performance and resilience—including why rejection is part of the game, and how routines (like athletes use) help people come back stronger after failure.You’ll hear:Why “skills” often aren’t the real problem—and what isHow to build routines that boost confidence and executionWhat coaching uncovers that leaders don’t always expectThe mindset shift that helps people perform in tough business climatesA personal, unexpected story about identity, adoption, and self-discoveryIf you’re a founder, leader, sales leader, or high performer who feels stuck—or you manage people who are—this episode will give you a clear, actionable way to diagnose what’s happening and move forward.

  12. 7

    Urman Founder Ronit Urman

    From Immigrant to Commercial Real Estate Powerhouse | Ronit Urman on Leadership, Negotiation & Building a Global Investment FirmWhat does it take to build a 30+ year commercial real estate company from scratch — in a brand new country?In this episode of Knoodle Founder’s Hour, Rosaria Cain sits down with Ronit Urman, co-founder of Urman Enterprises, to talk about entrepreneurship, commercial real estate investing, property management, and the resilience it takes to thrive across decades of market cycles.Ronit shares her remarkable journey — from immigrating to the United States as a teenager, to launching a commercial real estate firm in Arizona with her husband, to building an international investor base spanning the U.S., Canada, Israel, and China.With more than three decades in the Phoenix commercial real estate market, Ronit offers hard-earned insights on:Commercial real estate development and property managementSolving complex tenant and leasing challengesNavigating market cycles, vacancies, and rising construction costsManaging industrial, office, and multifamily propertiesLeading a family business across generationsBuilding investor trust through transparency and integrityHiring, company culture, and taking responsibility as a leaderWhy patience is a superpower in business (the “24-hour rule”)Ronit also shares candid stories about risk, negotiation, surviving downturns, balancing family and business, and what it’s really like running a commercial real estate company for nearly 40 years.If you’re an entrepreneur, real estate investor, property manager, or business leader, this episode delivers practical wisdom on leadership, resilience, and long-term growth in today’s evolving market.Topics Covered:Commercial real estate investing, property management strategies, Phoenix real estate market, industrial real estate, multifamily vacancies, entrepreneurship, family business leadership, investor relations, negotiation skills, real estate development, market trends 2026.Subscribe to Knoodle Founder’s Hour for founder-to-founder conversations about business, leadership, and building companies that stand the test of time. Read more and get a full transcript here:https://knoodle.com/podcast/urman-founder-ronit-urman/

  13. 6

    Neighborhood Comedy Theatre Founder Dorian Lenz

    What can unscripted comedy teach us about business, leadership, and life?In this episode, Rosaria Cain sits down with Dorian Lenz, founder of Neighborhood Comedy Theatre, to explore how improv comedy transforms not just the stage—but boardrooms, relationships, and entire organizations.With more than 25 years of experience in improvisational theatre, Dorian shares how the core principles of improv—listening skills, collaboration, vulnerability, and being comfortable with failure—translate directly into stronger leadership, better communication, and more innovative thinking.From corporate workshops that help executives think outside the box to family-friendly improv shows that offer an escape from a tense world, Dorian explains why “Yes, And” is more than a comedy technique—it’s a powerful business strategy.You’ll hear:How improv training improves public speaking and presentation skillsWhy failure comfort is essential for entrepreneurs and business growthHow group exercises unlock creativity and team collaborationThe entrepreneurial journey from stockbroker to theatre founderLessons learned from launching a theatre during the 2008 economic downturnHow community-driven businesses create long-term sustainabilityWhy listening—not talking—is the most underrated leadership skillDorian also discusses building multiple businesses, managing marketing and operations, and why laughter can fundamentally change workplace culture.Whether you're a business executive, entrepreneur, marketing leader, or simply curious about unscripted comedy, this conversation offers practical insights on communication, leadership development, creativity, and building resilient organizations.If you're interested in improv comedy, business collaboration, entrepreneurial mindset, marketing strategy, or personal growth through performance training, this episode delivers both inspiration and actionable takeaways.Subscribe for more conversations on entrepreneurship, business strategy, leadership, and the people building impactful community-driven businesses.More notes and a full transcript are available at: https://knoodle.com/podcast/neighborhood-comedy-theatre-founder-dorian-lenz/

  14. 5

    New Frontier Immigration Founder Hillary Walsh

    What is the current state of U.S. immigration—and how does it affect real people navigating the system today?In this episode, immigration attorney Hillary Walsh, founder of New Frontier Immigration, joins Rosaria Cain for an in-depth conversation about the realities of U.S. immigration law, the challenges facing families and businesses, and why the system is often far more complex than it appears from the outside.Hillary explains how immigration processes actually work—from green cards and family-based petitions to tourist visas and humanitarian parole—and why wait times can stretch decades for some applicants. She shares real-world examples from her legal practice that highlight how policy, enforcement, and administrative delays impact families, employers, and individuals trying to follow the law.The discussion also explores how immigration enforcement has evolved, what happens during workplace raids and detention, and why misconceptions like “just get in line” oversimplify a system filled with legal barriers and unintended consequences. Hillary offers insight into how attorneys, families, and business owners are adapting amid ongoing uncertainty, and why immigration reform remains a long-term, complex issue.This episode also covers:How the U.S. immigration system differs from other countriesGreen card backlogs and family reunification challengesTourist visas, work authorization, and admissibility risksHumanitarian parole and emergency entry requestsThe emotional and operational strain on immigration law firmsLeadership, entrepreneurship, and managing a growing legal practiceWhether you’re directly affected by immigration policy or simply want a clearer understanding of how the system functions in practice, this conversation provides valuable perspective grounded in experience and real cases.Listen now for a thoughtful, informative discussion on immigration law, policy, and the human side of the process.Get more notes and read a full transcript at: https://knoodle.com/podcast/new-frontier-immigration-founder-hillary-walsh/

  15. 4

    Belfiore Analytics Founder Jim Belfiore

    What really drives success in today’s housing market?It’s not guesses. It’s data.In this episode of The Founders Hour, host Rosaria Cain sits down with Jim Belfiore, founder of Belfiore Analytics, to unpack how high-quality, on-the-ground data is reshaping decision-making in the home building industry.Jim shares why he returned to the market with a new analytics firm, how Belfiore Analytics collects data differently than competitors, and why builders, developers, and investors are hungry for more accurate, real-time market intelligence—especially in fast-moving markets like Phoenix real estate.You’ll hear deep insights on:How home builders use market data to track competitors, pricing, incentives, and absorptionThe real impact of mortgage rates, incentives, and affordability on new home salesWhy build-to-rent and rental housing are surgingMarket feasibility studies and how developers decide what to build, where to build, and for whomThe future of housing data across Phoenix, Tucson, Colorado, California, Utah, and NevadaLeadership, entrepreneurship, and what it really takes to build a durable data-driven businessJim also shares candid lessons from COVID, the Great Recession, expanding across markets, and why “giving a damn” might be the most underrated leadership skill of all.Whether you’re a home builder, real estate developer, investor, analyst, or entrepreneur, this episode delivers a masterclass in housing market analytics, real estate data, and strategic decision-making.If you care about where housing is headed—and how smart data creates an edge—this is a must-listen.Read more and get a full transcription at:https://knoodle.com/podcast/belfiore-analytics-founder-jim-belfiore/

  16. 3

    Scottsdale Rodeo Museum Founder Dave Alford

    What does it take to preserve history, build community, and keep Western culture alive in a modern city like Scottsdale?In this episode of Knoodle Founder’s Hour, host Rosaria Cain sits down with Dave Alford, founder of the Scottsdale Rodeo Museum and a lifelong steward of Arizona’s rodeo heritage.Dave shares the untold story behind the Scottsdale Rodeo—now in its 70+ year legacy—and how a small group of volunteers built one of the most respected community-driven rodeos in the country. From growing up in Old Town Scottsdale to riding bulls, running rodeos, and turning a city-owned building into a living museum, Dave offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to sustain tradition while adapting to modern realities.This conversation goes far beyond rodeo history. Dave breaks down:How nonprofit organizations can thrive with 100% volunteer leadershipWhy tradition, consistency, and restraint matter more than hype in event marketingThe truth about animal welfare in professional rodeoHow scholarships and youth programs are shaping the next generation of rodeo athletesLessons in leadership, family legacy, and community-first business thinkingYou’ll also hear how smart branding decisions—like repositioning Parada del Sol as Rodeo Scottsdale—dramatically increased reach, visibility, and engagement, proving that the right marketing strategy can honor the past while unlocking future growth.Whether you’re a founder, marketer, nonprofit leader, or simply fascinated by Western culture and Arizona history, this episode delivers powerful insights wrapped in unforgettable stories.Read more and get a full transcript here:https://knoodle.com/podcast/scottsdale-rodeo-museum-founder-dave-alford/

  17. 2

    One Hope Founder Pat Crowley

    Can the homebuilding industry fix its affordability and labor crisis by going back to the roots?In this episode of The Founder’s Hour, Pat Crowley—founder of One Hope and longtime leader in the homebuilding and interior finishes world—shares a powerful, deeply personal story and a bold vision for the future of housing.From growing up in a working-class neighborhood in West Phoenix to leading initiatives with roots at Shaw Industries, Fulton Homes, and EPIX Interiors, Pat explains why today’s housing challenges—rising costs, labor shortages, and inefficiency—can’t be solved with surface-level fixes.Instead, he’s tackling the problem at its core.Pat joins Knoodle CEO and founder Rosaria Cain to unpack:Why housing affordability is fundamentally a labor and systems problemHow a new trade school at Borgade Catholic High School could reshape the skilled labor pipelineThe real role of AI in construction and the skilled trades (and what it can’t replace)Why changing the social perception of the trades is critical to the future of homebuildingHow industry leaders can align builders, trades, and suppliers to create a sustainable housing ecosystemPat also opens up about his faith-driven leadership philosophy, the inspiration behind One Hope, and how uniting contractors, builders, and educators could unlock a more efficient, affordable, and human-centered housing market.If you’re a homebuilder, developer, trade partner, housing leader, or construction professional, this episode challenges conventional thinking and offers a compelling roadmap for real change in the industry.Listen now to hear how fixing housing starts long before the first foundation is poured.Read more, along with a full transcript at: https://knoodle.com/podcast/one-hope-founder-pat-crowley/

  18. 1

    AE Ventures Founder John Galante

    How do you build a successful media and events company in a niche industry?In this episode of Knoodle Founders Hour, Knoodle Founder and CEO Rosaria Cain talks with John Galante, Founder and President of AE Ventures, about building and scaling a media and events business serving the homebuilding, construction technology, and housing innovation industries.John shares lessons from growing AE Ventures and leading platforms like the Builder Innovator Summit, insights on entrepreneurship and leadership, and what it takes to create long-term value as markets and technology evolve.“You can have a lot of good ideas, but if you can’t bounce back, if you don’t have the resilience to keep at it, you will be done no matter how good your ideas are.” – John GalanteListen now for founder-level insights on building a durable business in a changing industry.Read more an get a transcript here

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Welcome to Knoodle Founders Hour, the ultimate destination for deep-dive interviews with company founders. Every week, we pull back the curtain on the startup journey, exploring the raw stories behind innovative brands. From the "lightbulb moment" to scaling through the struggle, we talk entrepreneurship, leadership, and the grit required to build something from nothing. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur looking for a business roadmap or a seasoned leader seeking inspiration, join us for tactical advice and powerful founder stories. Watch and listen as we build the future.

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