The Transparent Podcast

PODCAST · business

The Transparent Podcast

Welcome to the Transparent Podcast! This podcast focuses on Small Business Startups, Entrepreneurship, and being Transparent in life and in business. If you want to learn about starting your own company, this is the podcast for you! Each week we have a guest joining Nick Ford, Owner of Transparent Staffing, on the podcast to discuss small businesses. The challenges, the wins, the losses, and how being transparent with everyone we come in contact with creates better business for everyone!

  1. 37

    Michael Hadden - Entrepreneurship Through A Library of Things

    Send us Fan MailEver look around your garage and realize half of it gathers dust? We sat down with RoundAbout co‑founder and CEO Mike Haddon to explore a smarter way to live: own what you love, access what you rarely need. RoundAbout is a local “library of things” serving Forsyth County, delivering and picking up everything from pressure washers and lawn tools to pop‑up tents, party tables, and premium kitchen gear. It’s the convenience of a well‑run rental, built for real homes, busy weekends, and those once‑a‑season jobs you don’t want to overpay for.If you’ve wondered whether a local access economy can thrive—or if you’re weighing your own leap into entrepreneurship—this conversation brings hard‑won lessons and practical next steps. Follow RoundAbout on Instagram and Facebook at @tryroundabout, or explore memberships at tryroundabout.com. If this story sparked ideas, share it with a friend, subscribe for more candid small‑business talks, and leave a quick review to help others find the show.

  2. 36

    Jermaine Ee - Building A Legacy Through Estate Planning

    Send us Fan MailWant the courage to leap into entrepreneurship and a practical way to protect your family’s future? We sit down with Jermaine—an entrepreneur shaped by immigrant grit and cross‑cultural identity—who’s building HeirLight, a modern estate planning app that uses AI to make wills and trusts accessible, private, and easy to start. The conversation moves beyond hustle culture to the deeper question: who are you as a builder, and what pressures do you actually want?Enjoyed the conversation? Follow, share with a founder friend, and leave a quick review—tell us which funding path you’d pick and why.Interested in checking out HeirLight? Click the link below for 50% off!http://www.heirlight.com/en/podcast

  3. 35

    Ryan Hare - All In On Entrepreneurship

    Send us Fan MailReady to stop clinging to the pool railing and actually swim? We sit down with serial entrepreneur Ryan Hare, owner of John Franklin Landscapes in North Georgia, to strip away the myths around business ownership and show what it really takes to build something that lasts. From kitchen-table roofing estimates with his grandfather to design-build projects that turn blank yards into outdoor sanctuaries, Ryan shares why jumping all in beats playing it safe—and how “job security” can be a mirage when you’re not in control.If this fired you up, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs the push, and leave a quick review so more builders can find us. And if you’re local and want to talk shop or start a project, visit JohnFranklinlandscapes.com - he'd love to help.

  4. 34

    Kevin Fedor - Transparent Lessons on Entrepreneurship

    Send us Fan MailReady to stop daydreaming and start building? Kevin Fedor, Founder & Digital Marketing Strategist at Follow Spike, and I dig into the real tradeoffs behind side hustles, full-time leaps, and why validation on nights and weekends rarely scales unless you design for it. With marketing operator and agency leader Kevin Fedor, we unpack how to test offers fast, keep costs low, and decide when traction justifies quitting your job. If you’ve been hiding behind plans and perfection, this conversation gives you a practical path to your first paying customer.If you’re on the fence, start small and public: pitch a pilot, frame your first dollar, and learn in the market. Subscribe for more candid playbooks on small business growth, share this with a friend who needs the push, and leave a review to tell us what you’ll test this week.Also, learn more about Kevin and his work at Follow Spike at http://followspike.com/

  5. 33

    Aaron Lewinson - From Music To Therapy

    Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a musician trades tour dreams for therapy gyms and decides to rebuild children's therapy care from the ground up? We sit down with Aaron Lewinson, founder of Rise and Growth Therapy, for a transparent look at starting an occupational and speech therapy practice that puts kids and clinicians ahead of quotas. From the first LLC paperwork to assembling ziplines and swings, Aaron shares the real choices behind launching a mission-driven clinic.You can learn more about Rise and Grow Therapy as well as Occupational and Speech Therapy at www.riseandgrowtherapy.com

  6. 32

    Coach Joe Noonan - Planning, Goals, and the Inside EDGE

    Send us Fan MailWant a candid roadmap for choosing your entrepreneurial path and actually making it work? We sit down with Coach Joe Noonan to explore the real tradeoffs between starting from scratch, buying a business, or stepping into a franchise—and how to pick the lane that fits your goals, budget, and appetite for structure. Joe brings decades of operating experience, a practical coaching toolkit, and hard-won insight into what separates owners who scale from those who stall.You can reach Coach Joe at 678-596-6479 or by email at [email protected]

  7. 31

    Anuj Thakkar - Soap, Water, and a Lot of Grit

    Send us Fan MailReady to stop dabbling and build something that scales? We sit down with Anuj, Owner of Super Shine Express Car Washes, to unpack how he went from a single family-run wash to five thriving locations with a sixth on the way. The journey isn’t “set it and forget it.” It’s systems, people, and an ownership mindset that turns a small operation into a durable local brand.Check out their locations in Georgia in Alpharetta, Dacula, Braselton, Hoschton, and Hamilton Mill. You can also find them online at supershineexpress.com.Also, get your first wash FREE by texting Transparent to 47757 at any location!

  8. 30

    India Martin - Brain Integration and a Purpose-Driven Practice

    Send us Fan MailEvery founder remembers the moment the idea stopped being abstract and started feeling urgent. That spark drives this conversation with India Martin, Owner of Atlanta Brain Integration and the first brain integration practitioner in Georgia—a journey born of a personally driven purpose and the search for a gentler, more effective path to healing.Learn more about India's mission and Atlanta Brain Integration at https://www.atlantabrainintegration.com/

  9. 29

    Jena Kranz - Fueling Women in Entrepreneurship

    Send us Fan MailReady to stop waiting for perfect and start building something real? We sit down with entrepreneur and OWNED founder Jena Kranz to get honest about what it actually takes to move from idea to income—why urgency matters and where a “burn the boats” mindset helps. Jenna shares the habits that separate winners from everyone else - actions you can measure, daily goals you can see, and communication that keeps teams aligned when the pressure’s on.You can learn more about Jena and OWNED at OurWomen.org

  10. 28

    Dr. James Connelly - Building a Patient-First PT Practice

    Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a physical therapist decides to challenge the corporate healthcare model and build something truly patient-centered? Dr. James Connelly shares his remarkable journey from stroke survivor to founder of Results Rehab, where he's creating what he calls "the Chick-fil-A of physical therapy."Visit resultsrehab.org to learn more about Dr. Connolly's practice or to schedule a consultation about injury prevention or treatment options.

  11. 27

    Bob Tankesley - Exit Strategies and Building Businesses for Maximum Value

    Send us Fan MailBob Tankesley brings over a decade of M&A advisory experience to this fascinating conversation about what truly separates successful entrepreneurs from those who fail. Having guided countless business owners through the complex process of selling their companies, Bob shares wisdom that's applicable whether you're planning an exit or simply want to build a more valuable enterprise.At the heart of our discussion is Bob's new book "Exit Teams," which uses a compelling narrative to illustrate why business owners need a collaborative team of advisors - especially when facing sophisticated buyers who come armed with their own team of experts. This imbalance often leads to suboptimal outcomes for sellers who try to go it alone.Whether you're currently running a business, planning to acquire one, or just beginning your entrepreneurial journey, this conversation provides actionable insights that can help you avoid costly mistakes and build something truly valuable. Find Bob's book "Exit Teams" on Amazon in paperback, hardback, and Kindle formats at https://a.co/d/8Nw1qmf

  12. 26

    Bennett Maxwell - From Cold Knocks to Cookie Dough: How a Franchise Giant is Born

    Send us Fan MailBennett Maxwell's entrepreneurial journey reads like a playbook for hustle and strategic growth. From selling candy bars door-to-door as a child in Utah to building a cookie franchise empire, his path showcases how combining sales expertise with smart systems can create extraordinary results.The real magic happened when Maxwell purchased Dirty Dough, which was then a single cookie store location. He recognized the challenges in the gourmet cookie space and developed a hybrid model that solved a critical industry problem. Maxwell's insights on scaling are particularly valuable for anyone growing a business. He candidly shares how assembling a board of advisors transformed his company, offering equity to high-caliber entrepreneurs who provided guidance through rapid expansion. Connect with Bennett at www.bennettmaxwell.com to learn more about his current ventures with Craveworthy Brands and and Franchise KI.

  13. 25

    Johnny Palumbo - AI Revolution and The Entrepreneurial Journey

    Send us Fan MailJohnny Palumbo's entrepreneurial story starts at just 16 years old, when he won $20,000 from a high school business incubator competition. That early success planted a seed that would eventually bloom into Simplified Tech, his rapidly-growing AI consultancy now serving businesses across the US and Europe.After studying computer engineering and computer science at the University of Wisconsin, Johnny landed an internship at BlackRock building their AI initiatives just as ChatGPT was emerging. Though Johnny initially took a full-time role at BlackRock after graduation, he resigned just five weeks later to go all-in on Simplified Tech - a decision he hasn't regretted.Beyond AI insights, Johnny shares hard-won wisdom about entrepreneurship itself. Success requires persistence, risk-taking, and resilience through inevitable failures. As he puts it: "Starting a business is like running a marathon, but you're out of shape when you start. You have to get fit as you go, but you can't stop to rest." For aspiring entrepreneurs, his message is clear: roll the dice as many times as you can, and enjoy the journey along the way.

  14. 24

    Dr. Lynn Rapsilber - Transforming Healthcare Through Nurse Practitioner Entrepreneurs

    Send us Fan MailThe healthcare system is broken, but nurse practitioners might be the solution we've been waiting for. Dr. Lynn Rapsilber, co-founder and CEO of the National Nurse Practitioner Entrepreneur Network (NNPEN), joins us to explore how nurse practitioners build sustainable, patient-centered practices that could transform healthcare delivery.Ready to transform healthcare from the ground up? Visit www.nnpen.org to learn about their Business Basics Accelerator course and discover resources for healthcare entrepreneurs committed to putting patients first.

  15. 23

    Dr. Shweta Patel: From Physician to Digital Health Entrepreneur

    Send us Fan MailDr. Shweta Patel joins The Transparent Podcast to share her insights on the medical field, the pros and cons of being a medical doctor, and her journey into entrepreneurship with Gaya Wellness. Join our conversation about starting a company, the medical field and what it takes to succeed in business!

  16. 22

    Jordan Agolli - Dreams, Marketing, and Entrepreneurship

    Send us Fan MailDive into the world of entrepreneurship with Jordan Agolli, the founder of Force Media, a full-service marketing agency specializing in various industries. In this insightful episode, Jordan shares his personal journey from a teenage entrepreneur to the leader of a thriving business, bringing invaluable lessons on resilience, teamwork, and the importance of transparency in client relationships.Jordan emphasizes the role of grit and tenacity in overcoming challenges and scaling a business. He provides a candid look at the financial strategies he employed early on and the growth pains he faced. He illustrates how collaboration among team members results in better decision-making and nurtures a healthy company culture. Listeners will discover how honesty and transparency are not merely ethical choices but strategic business advantages, leading to stronger client relationships and sustainable growth. With a focus on personal well-being, Jordan encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to prioritize mental and physical health as they navigate their paths.This episode has actionable insights for anyone interested in entrepreneurship or those looking to enhance their business strategies. Tune in to learn how to create a prosperous business while maintaining authentic connections and a clear vision for success. Don't forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review to support the show!

  17. 21

    Christina Lazare - From Social Work to Entrepreneurship

    Send us Fan MailJoin us for an engaging episode filled with inspiration and practical insights as we chat with Christina Lazare, the dynamic CEO of Build and Change LLC. Christina takes us through her compelling journey from a 20-year career in social work to becoming a successful entrepreneur dedicated to empowering small businesses and non-profits. With a mission to connect entrepreneurs to vital resources, she offers invaluable advice on navigating the challenges of starting and growing a business. Throughout the episode, we discuss the importance of transparency in entrepreneurship, the power of collaboration, and the necessity of setting realistic goals while embracing the possibility of failure. Christina highlights the impact of community and meaningful relationships in fostering a supportive environment for business growth. She shares her experiences and lessons learned in balancing responsibilities, managing time effectively, and why it’s crucial to ask for help when needed.Whether you're secretly dreaming of starting your own venture or currently encountering hurdles as a business owner, Christina's story is sure to resonate and motivate you to take action. By tuning in, you'll discover how to cultivate your unique vision into a successful enterprise and the important role that community plays in your entrepreneurial journey. Be inspired to lean into your fears, embrace collaboration, and take that first step towards your goals today! Don't forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review!

  18. 20

    Ryder Harris - AI-Adoption and Entrepreneurial Success

    Send us Fan MailWhat if you could transform your career using AI tools? Join me, Nick Ford, as I chat with Rider Harris, the visionary behind GoBananas AI, who transitioned from a sales role in fintech to launching a groundbreaking AI-focused business. Together, we reveal how generative AI tools like ChatGPT inspired Ryder to create workshops that span various sectors, including real estate, marketing, and finance. We pull back the curtain on Transparent Staffing's dedication to transparency and how it's helped us achieve impressive retention rates. Ryder shares his entrepreneurial journey, highlighting how motivational figures like Alex Hormozi helped navigate the challenges of starting a new venture.Ryder and I unravel the fascinating tale of AI discovery that began with a canceled university course and morphed into a journey of self-driven research and innovation. Our discussion underscores the pivotal role of sales skills for any budding entrepreneur and questions the lack of formal sales education in business programs. 

  19. 19

    Steve Switzer - Legacy in Recruiting and Entrepreneurial Challenges

    Send us Fan MailHonesty and transparency are the cornerstones of effective recruiting, but how often do we really see these principles in action? Meet Steve Switzer from Legacy Recruiting, who joins me for a heartfelt conversation about transforming the recruiting industry with sincerity and a focus on meaningful relationships. We dive into Steve's journey, the ethos behind "Legacy Recruiting," and why being forthright about both the strengths and weaknesses of candidates can lead to enduring client partnerships.As the conversation progresses, we pivot to the art of team communication and decision-making. The key takeaway? A B-plus idea backed by team consensus often outshines an A-plus concept executed in isolation. We examine how different work styles can either clash or complement each other, share anecdotes about implementing new systems, and discuss the balancing act of scaling a business as a solo operator. My own experience with integrating an automated email tracking system and its impact on efficiency becomes a case study in managing organizational change.The episode wraps up by tackling the complexities of entrepreneurship, balancing spirituality with ambition, and the challenges of scaling one's business without losing the personal touch. I open up about my own journey as a solo entrepreneur, the trials of virtual hiring, and my ongoing quest to refine processes while embracing technology like AI. Entrepreneurship can be immensely rewarding, but it's not for everyone. This episode offers insights and advice for those contemplating this exciting but demanding path.

  20. 18

    Art Williams - Just Do it Speech - Mental Toughness and Entrepreneurship

    Send us Fan MailArt Williams, a high school football coach turned insurance mogul, joins us to unveil the secret to his billion-dollar success story. At the 1987 National Religious Broadcaster Convention, Art captivated audiences with his compelling tale of toppling industry giants like Prudential and New York Life. His journey underscores the power of mental toughness and the importance of carving out a unique niche in a competitive market. Art's insights offer more than just a blueprint for business success—they serve as a testament to the resilience and innovation required to stand out in the world of entrepreneurship.Challenge the status quo with us as we question the traditional paths to corporate triumph. From Art's perspective and our own experiences, we explore how intangible qualities such as integrity, enthusiasm, and character often outweigh academic credentials and privileged backgrounds. This conversation celebrates the dreamers who dare to stand for something meaningful, even at the risk of controversy. We advocate for a return to core values and self-belief, emphasizing that the true markers of success lie within a positive attitude and unwavering confidence in one's potential.Our exploration doesn't stop at professional achievements; it extends to the delicate balance between personal satisfaction and career accomplishments. Through relatable stories, we highlight the nuances of personal and professional life, where relationships and commitment play pivotal roles. Whether it's a quirk like leaving toothpaste caps off or the relentless pursuit of goals, the little things matter as much as the grand victories. Embrace the lesson that success is attainable not only for the inherently gifted but for those steadfast enough to persevere, pay the price of hard work, and ultimately become someone they'll be proud of.

  21. 17

    Jacob Stripling - Recruiting, Entrepreneurship, and Integrity

    Send us Fan MailWhat if the key to entrepreneurial success is embracing transparency and genuine connections? Join us as we explore this idea with my former baseball teammate, Jacob, who has transitioned from the baseball field at Harding University to founding a recruiting firm in Little Rock. Jacob shares how an enlightening conversation with a manager at TEKsystems set him on this entrepreneurial path and emphasizes the significant role workplace culture plays in choosing a career. Together, we discuss our mutual passion for transparency, which served as a catalyst for creating our respective staffing companies, and how this value is embedded in recruiting and entrepreneurship.The conversation illuminates the strategic decisions involved in scaling a business, from investing wisely in advertising and website enhancements to recognizing the right moment to expand the team and avoiding the pitfalls of inadequate systems.This episode offers rich insights into the entrepreneurial mindset, the power of taking bold steps, and how genuine connections can lead to lasting fulfillment.

  22. 16

    Dr. Fred Moss - Mental Health Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Financial Literacy

    Send us Fan MailUnlock the secrets of mental health and entrepreneurship as we sit down with the remarkable Dr. Fred Moss, also known as the "un-doctor." Discover how he's reshaping the mental health landscape by steering away from conventional diagnoses and medications, leveraging human connection and creativity instead. Together, we share personal stories about balancing our professional missions with family life, underscoring the powerful influence of communication in both mental health and the small business sphere.Prepare to challenge your financial mindset as we uncover the often-overlooked business aspects of professional careers, especially in the medical field. Learn why financial literacy and savvy business operations are essential, yet missing from traditional educational paths. We discuss how to break free from the constraints of trading time for money, and explore the potential of diverse income streams for a more rewarding lifestyle. With insights inspired by "Rich Dad, Poor Dad," we encourage you to make money work for you through teamwork and collective ideas.Explore the roadmap to clarity and purpose in your entrepreneurial journey, where understanding your mission and target audience can lead to unparalleled success. Personal anecdotes highlight the importance of transparency and ethics, while practical advice guides you through career transitions and the exciting venture into financial literacy education. This episode offers you a dynamic blend of insights and strategies, empowering you to prioritize faith, family, and business in a balanced and effective way. Join us in this enriching dialogue to forge a more successful and fulfilling path forward.

  23. 15

    Dr. Jen Huberty - Science, Entrepreneurship, and Health Interventions

    Send us Fan MailDr. Jennifer Huberty, founder of Fit Minded and former leader of the science team at Calm, joins me to share her fascinating journey from academia to entrepreneurship. Our conversation delves into how our past experiences have shaped our entrepreneurial endeavors. As a former college baseball athlete, I recount my path to founding Transparent Staffing, a firm grounded in transparency. Dr. Huberty discusses her transition from exercise physiology research to entrepreneurship, highlighting the significance of sustainable health interventions and how her scientific background paved the way for her business venture. Growing a company is no small feat, and the challenges that come with scaling are front and center in this episode. We share stories from my own experiences with Transparent Staffing and Dr. Huberty's insights from the tech world, focusing on the complexities and dynamics of rapid expansion. I recount an incident where a clash in recruiting and sales processes led to resistance within my team, serving as a reminder of the delicate balance required in leadership. Together, we emphasize the critical role of strategic guidance and effective leadership in navigating these hurdles.Persistence, passion, and self-awareness are hallmarks of entrepreneurial success, and we explore these themes in depth. Drawing parallels between business and sports, particularly baseball, we underscore the importance of resilience and learning from failure. Leadership isn't just about making decisions; it's about trusting your intuition, balancing responsibilities, and maintaining strong client relationships. Wrapping up our conversation, we explore the power of networking, especially via LinkedIn, as a strategy for business growth. Tune in to discover actionable insights and strategies for entrepreneurship and leadership success.

  24. 14

    Earnest Nightingale - The Strangest Secret

    Send us Fan MailUnlock the secret to success that has eluded many despite living in an era of prosperity. Why do only 5 out of 100 men find success by age 65? Through the lens of Albert Schweitzer's wisdom, we explore the impact of conformity and how the lack of clear goals can derail our journey to success. This episode promises to redefine success as the progressive realization of a worthy ideal—be it in teaching, business, or any chosen path—by emphasizing the necessity of knowing your direction and purpose.Imagine your mind as fertile land, a powerful metaphor for how our thoughts shape our reality. Drawing wisdom from great thinkers like Marcus Aurelius and Ralph Waldo Emerson, we illustrate the profound influence of belief and mindset on our achievements. Our minds, though priceless, often go undervalued, yet they hold the potential to fulfill our dreams. By consciously nurturing positive thoughts, listeners can harness this potential and transform their lives, leaving behind the irony of undervaluing our most significant asset.The episode closes with practical strategies drawn from Sir Isaac Newton's principles and insights from Dr. David Harold Fink. Discover the 30-day test to replace fear with positivity, the importance of service, and how to break self-imposed limitations. We share actionable advice like saving 10% of your earnings and maintaining a positive outlook, all while emphasizing the law of success through service. It's a call to join the 5% who not only dream but actively shape their destinies with courage, imagination, and clear goals.

  25. 13

    Royce Hunter - Mentorship, Resilience, and Business Wisdom

    Send us Fan MailWhat if the secret to thriving in business and personal life lies in the wisdom passed down through generations? Join me, Nick Ford, as I sit down with my granddad, Royce Hunter, a man who lived a life of remarkable achievements and passed on from this earthly world to Heaven on November 1st, 2024. His unique perspective, shaped by a career in the insurance industry, offers invaluable insights into the transformative power of mentorship, faith, and putting family and God first.Royce shares the stories and lessons that shaped his remarkable career in the insurance industry and how his persistence and faith proved to be a successful recipe for a thriving business. Royce's journey from a management trainee at Southwestern Life Insurance Company in Dallas to the executive vice president of Southwest Indemnity and Life Insurance Company by age 28 illustrates the transformative power of mentorship and adaptability. His experiences reveal how embracing guidance from seasoned professionals can catapult one's career while navigating the ever-changing landscape of small business.As we venture further, we encounter not just a career trajectory, but stories of heartache and resilience. Royce's personal narratives, including his struggle to balance career ambitions with the challenges of single parenthood after the sudden loss of his wife, shed light on the tough decisions and turning points that define a career. These stories underscore the importance of prioritizing family amidst adversity and the critical role of flexibility and foresight in business recovery.Our conversation concludes with reflections on trust, transparency, and collaboration as core values in building successful business partnerships. Drawing from Royce's experiences with his business partner, we explore the importance of honest communication and valuing diverse skills within a team. Additionally, we delve into the teachings of motivational figures like Earl Nightingale, emphasizing the indispensable role of faith and persistence in achieving long-term success. Tune in to discover practical insights and inspiring stories that offer valuable business wisdom and ignite a commitment to personal growth and purpose.

  26. 12

    Dr. Dawnnmarie Risley - Psychiatry, Healthcare Insights, and Preventing Child Abuse

    Send us Fan MailCheck out Dr. Risley's book here: https://www.drrisleychilds.com/bookDiscover the captivating journey of Dr. Dawnmarie Risley, a board-certified psychiatrist who unexpectedly found her calling in psychiatry after initially pursuing a career as an OBGYN. We discuss how her family's history with psychiatric disorders guided her passion, leading to fascinating experiences in psychiatry and unique insights gained from working within the prison system. As we hear from Dr. Risley, she shares her expertise in identifying behavioral health issues with those she interacts with. She discusses the feasibility of starting a private practice while maintaining other medical commitments, offering a refreshing perspective on balancing personal and business aspirations.Join us as we explore the intricate landscape of psychiatry within the broader healthcare system. Together with Dr. Risley, we tackle the challenges of segregated care, the frustrations of electronic medical record systems, and the critical role of scribes in improving physician efficiency. Understand the financial implications for clinics dealing with incomplete EMR notes and dive deep into the complexities of the healthcare insurance landscape. Through this conversation, we illuminate the often-overlooked administrative demands faced by medical professionals. We also underscore the necessity of a strong support team in managing patient care, highlighting the collaborative nature of healthcare.Beyond the realms of psychiatry, the episode embarks on a profound discussion about child safety and abuse prevention, underscoring the critical need for community awareness and proactive measures. We learn about Dr. Risley's mission to combat child molestation and her journey of writing a memoir which aims to empower and heal. This episode highlights her dedication to these pressing issues and emphasizes the importance of persistence and passion in business endeavors, offering valuable lessons for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact in their field.

  27. 11

    Chris Reese on the Secrets of Successful Ventures

    Send us Fan MailChris Reese, the dynamic CFO and Co-Owner of ASW, joins our conversation to share his journey through the world of entrepreneurship and leadership in small businesses. From family business roots to leading tech company turnarounds and global consulting, Chris's path is full of valuable insights. We'll explore the motivations behind side hustles, from seeking extra income to transforming hobbies into significant ventures, all while underscoring the importance of full commitment when accepting external capital. Chris's experience offers a firsthand look at how dedication can transform a fledgling idea into a thriving enterprise.Our dialogue takes a turn into the evolving landscape of organizational decision-making. Discover how the shift from traditional top-down approaches to decentralized models is empowering employees and fostering a sense of ownership within teams. Through personal anecdotes, we highlight the pitfalls of ignoring team input and the benefits of incorporating frontline insights. By valuing employee buy-in, leaders can cultivate a more engaged and committed workforce, where everyone feels their voice matters and contributes to the success of the organization.Family business dynamics, entrepreneurial ventures, and key success factors are all on the table as Chris shares his experiences with both starting from scratch and buying a franchise. The conversation touches on the essential elements for success, such as sufficient capital, humility, and hard work, while also emphasizing the role of networking and strong professional relationships. As the episode wraps up, Chris leaves us with a light-hearted but crucial reminder of the power of knowing the right people in the business world. This episode promises to be a treasure trove of wisdom for aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned business leaders alike.

  28. 10

    Onu Okebie - Mergers & Acquisitions, Logistics, and Small Business

    Send us Fan MailOnu Okebie is the Owner and CEO of HTL Freight and a dynamic entrepreneur. He brings his insights into mergers and acquisitions to the Podcast and shares his experiences buying businesses vs. starting a business from scratch.Onu is based in Charlotte, and his business success and mindset, which he shares on The Transparent Podcast, are invaluable to any investor or entrepreneur!

  29. 9

    Kathy Woerner - Small Business, Mental Health, and Spaces

    Send us Fan MailKathy Woerner is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and owner of Cultivated Mental Health, as well as her private practice offering LCSW services. At Cultivated, they recognize each individual's unique contributions and challenges within the mental health profession.At Cultivated Mental Health, a diverse range of services is offered, including education opportunities, collaborative events, and immersive retreats. These are all designed to nourish and empower every member of the mental health ecosystem.Kathy and Nick discuss small business ownership and leadership, the mental health field, and inspiring other entrepreneurs to create their own "spaces."

  30. 8

    Carter Coe - Partnerships, Finance and Forestry

    Send us Fan MailOn this episode of The Transparent Podcast, host Nick Ford sits down with Carter Coe, Managing Partner & Chief Financial Officer of Chinook Forest Partners. We discuss the procs and cons of working with partners, Carter's experience in the forestry industry, and how faith influences business.

  31. 7

    Ben Smith - Geese, Faith, & Gear

    Send us Fan MailBen Smith owns GooseFeet Gear, a maker of down outdoor apparel that was started in 2010 by Ben. They began with down socks, insulated socks made for outdoor people who need to stay warm in frigid adventure settings.GooseFeet Gear came from the goose feathers used in his products, including his first down socks. He now makes custom apparel, including jackets, balaclavas, and pillows. Check out his website at www.goosefeetgear.com!

  32. 6

    Madison Edwards - Small Business Scaling vs Large Corporate Recruiting

    Send us Fan MailMadison Edwards is one of the Recruiting Consultants at Transparent Staffing and our first full-time employee! Madison has a background in IT Staffing, including at Insight Global at an agency and at Amazon Corporate as a corporate IT Recruiter. Madison shares her experiences working at a small company as well as a large business and the pros and cons of both. She also shares what it takes to succeed in small business - listen in!

  33. 5

    Zach Adams - Animals & Small Business Leadership

    Send us Fan MailZach Adams is the practice manager for North Forsyth Animal Hospital and opened the clinic alongside Dr. Dana Croy amid the 2020 pandemic. The hospital has now grown to include two veterinarians and a team of ten total staff, and Zach shares his leadership mindset on how to inspire his team to succeed. Nick and Zach discuss the growth mindset, how to scale a small business and the keys to productivity and success in the world of small business!

  34. 4

    Bryan Scott - NFL to Business Entrepeneur

    Send us Fan MailBryan Scott is the Vice President of Strategic Growth at Foot Solutions and is our guest this week on The Transparent Podcast! Bryan had a successful NFL career spending ten years in the league after being drafted in 2003 by the Atlanta Falcons. He also played with the Tennessee Titans and New Orleans Saints and finished his career with the Buffalo Bills. After his NFL career, Bryan founded Noene, and in 2015, Bryan was featured on Shark Tank and made it out of the tank with a deal including Mark Cuban and Daymond John! His success brought him to Foot Solutions after Noene was acquired, and Bryan agreed to stay with the company as the VP of Strategic Growth.Bryan shares insights about small business entrepreneurship, leadership, and what it takes to succeed in business!

  35. 3

    Steven Holt - Make Your Dreams a Reality

    Send us Fan MailSteven Holt is the Founder & CEO of ScorBord and our guest this week on The Transparent Podcast! Steven has some great insights to share and inspiration for wantrepreneurs and shares how he sacrificed to take his dream to reality. 

  36. 2

    Bryce Bradley - Small Business Entrepreneurship

    Send us Fan MailBryce Bradley is a business owner, entrepreneur, and President of Rosegate Mortgage. Bryce is local to Charlotte, NC, and played baseball at Harding University. This podcast is focused on small-business startups and scaling!

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Welcome to the Transparent Podcast! This podcast focuses on Small Business Startups, Entrepreneurship, and being Transparent in life and in business. If you want to learn about starting your own company, this is the podcast for you! Each week we have a guest joining Nick Ford, Owner of Transparent Staffing, on the podcast to discuss small businesses. The challenges, the wins, the losses, and how being transparent with everyone we come in contact with creates better business for everyone!

HOSTED BY

Nick Ford

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