Unlock the secrets of financial resilience and entrepreneurial success through our engaging discussion with Chris Hardy, founder of Samson Financial and a former Bentley University alum and classmate of host Brian Lofrumento. Discover how Chris transitioned from a predictable career at Citizens Bank to navigating the tumultuous world of entrepreneurship, and learn invaluable lessons on financial modeling for small businesses. His journey from corporate FP&A roles to starting his own firm, especially during a challenging personal milestone, is a masterclass in adaptability and persistence.

Through our conversation, Chris reveals the critical importance of financial modeling in optimizing resources for sustainable growth. We'll explore how small businesses can leverage historical data for informed decision-making and avoid common financial pitfalls. Gain insights into fostering teamwork in less collaborative environments, and understand how empathy and personal connections can transform business strategies. Chris’s practical advice for business owners underscores the necessity of confronting financial details head-on to unlock true business potential.

Celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit with us as Chris shares his inspiring story and actionable advice. From balancing his life as a student-athlete to managing the complexities of business ownership, Chris's narrative is filled with resilience and adaptability. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to the power of stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing the uncertainties of entrepreneurship. Listen in for a wealth of inspiration and practical tips that could redefine your approach to business and personal growth.

ABOUT CHRIS

Chris Hardy started his career in commercial banking landing the exact job he wanted and expected to retire from there, only to get poached by a client and thrown into the world of corporate FP&A. This gave Chris a taste for working with a medium-sized company, helping gain valuable experience and exposure to a new set of financial skills. The dream wore off quickly as he was laid off and landed at a much larger organization. Never comfortable in an overly corporate setting, Chris had a mind to get back to what he liked doing but it would take him 5 years to get there. What better time to quit a stable job and start your own financial consulting practice when you have a child on the way. And that's exactly what he did.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Connect with Chris on LinkedIn

Unlock the secrets to sustainable business success with Hunter Surles, the visionary founder of Rooted Advisory Group. Hunter takes us on an inspiring journey from being laid off to creating a thriving consulting firm that prioritizes intentionality, empathy, and purpose-driven practices. Learn how investing in people and foundational processes like change management can yield both short-term and long-term results, creating a robust organizational foundation that balances financial goals with empathetic leadership.

Ever wondered why traditional KPIs and financial metrics might not be enough? Hunter reveals the hidden aspects of business processes that often go unnoticed, such as employee motivations and workflow rationale. By understanding these unseen elements, businesses can identify inefficiencies and elevate overall operations. Discover how to strike the perfect balance between leveraging technology and maintaining a human-centric approach, ensuring that AI and new tools enhance rather than overshadow the human elements of work. Hunter's insights on creating a meaningful connection between employees' tasks and the company's larger goals will leave you rethinking your approach to organizational efficiency.

Lastly, navigate the complexities of automation versus human intervention with Hunter's seasoned wisdom. He shares personal anecdotes and lessons from his early career, emphasizing the importance of understanding the real needs before jumping to technological solutions. Learn his strategies for prioritizing tasks that truly matter, eliminating redundant processes, and empowering clients to achieve sustainable success without becoming dependent on external services. This episode is packed with actionable insights for entrepreneurs and business leaders looking to foster meaningful and lasting business transformation.

ABOUT HUNTER

Hunter Surles is the Founder & Principal of Rooted Advisory Group, an organizational strategy and transformation consulting firm. He helps companies and employees operate with greater purpose, empathy, and intentionality. Hunter has successfully led complex engagements for Fortune 250 companies and startups alike. With a B.S. in Management Information Systems from Tennessee Tech and an M.A. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from Liberty University, Hunter brings a strong educational background to his work. He holds certifications in Organizational Network Analysis, Lean Six Sigma, Scrum, and Social & Behavioral Research. Outside work, Hunter enjoys fishing, cycling, golfing, and wine. He lives in Indianapolis with his wife, Laura, and their three dogs. Hunter's expertise in organizational strategy and transformation helps businesses achieve meaningful change and growth.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Visit Rooted Advisory Group’s Website
• Follow Rooted Advisory Group on LinkedIn
• Connect with Hunter on LinkedIn

Ever wondered how the online dating landscape transformed from clunky flip phones to sophisticated matchmaking algorithms? Join us for an insightful conversation with Scott Demyon, a pioneer in the online dating industry who co-founded one of the first mobile dating and chat sites in the US back in 2005. We explore his incredible journey, the evolution of his early platform, and its significant influence on what would eventually become Tinder's matching system. Scott’s story not only highlights the ingenuity required to navigate early mobile technology but also sheds light on the broader shifts in dating culture over the past two decades.

Tired of the endless swiping and superficial connections that dominate traditional dating apps? Scott introduces Swerv, his innovative solution aiming to foster genuine real-life interactions. By focusing on geographic locations and organic social hotspots, Swerv moves away from the swipe culture, offering users a chance to meet potential matches in more authentic settings. We dive into the shortcomings of conventional dating platforms, their reliance on prolonged user engagement, and how Swerv’s user-centric approach is set to revolutionize the industry by providing genuine value and reducing wasted time.

The episode also tackles the increasing challenges posed by AI bots in dating apps. Scott candidly discusses his efforts to market Swerv effectively and his search for a marketing-savvy co-founder to help amplify its reach. With a commitment to ensuring genuine in-person interactions, Swerv positions itself as an AI-proof dating network, safeguarding users against fake profiles and AI-driven scams. Tune in to hear Scott’s creative ideas and upcoming partnerships that utilize AI positively to enhance user experiences without compromising on trust and security. Discover how Scott’s passion for creating genuine connections is set to drive a much-needed change in the online dating world.

ABOUT SCOTT

Scott Demyon co-founded one of the first mobile dating & chat sites that pioneered mobile dating in the US market in early 2005. PhoneFling & PhoneShag grew rapidly, reaching 42M monthly unique page views solely from feature phone traffic. (3 years before smartphones existed). The core 2-way opt-in matching system was later demoed to Jonathan Badeen in 2009, who went on to co-found Tinder in 2012 utilizing the same algorithm.

Scott soon realized the architecture of interacting electronically was causing many negative effects to our dating culture. He created Swerv in response.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Download Swerv from App Store
• Download Swerv from Google Play
• Visit Swerv’s Website
• Connect with Scott on LinkedIn

Unlock the secrets of success by mastering the power of frequency and repetition. Discover why the age-old adage "quality over quantity" might be holding you back. By tuning into this episode, you'll learn how consistent practice and regular engagement are the true drivers of mastery and momentum. From simple analogies like learning life's essential skills like riding a bike, we uncover how regular repetition not only enhances your abilities but also builds deeper connections in business. Think of it as pushing a giant rock uphill—steady effort is what leads to lasting success.

Unlock the potential of your entrepreneurial journey with insights from the remarkable Emily Weiner, founder and CEO of The Connectors. Drawing from over 25 years of experience, Emily shares her transformative approach to fostering meaningful relationships and the power of gifting. Discover how adopting a giver's mindset can revolutionize your negotiations and attract opportunities in unexpected ways. Tune in to hear a personal story about the enduring impact of genuine connections, illustrating how gifting can enrich both your personal and professional life.

ABOUT EMILY

Emily Weiner, Founder and CEO of The Connectors, is a systems-thinking entrepreneur and business advisor with over 25 years of experience connecting people and ideas to drive change. Leaders value her ability to link individuals and concepts, fostering innovation and impact. Emily has helped thousands, from teenagers to seasoned professionals, discover how to effect change in various roles and sectors. She coaches people to connect with their passions, develop skills, and view societal challenges as entrepreneurial opportunities. Previously, Emily was a founding member of The Lewis Institute at Babson College, growing it into a multimillion-dollar social impact portfolio. Her diverse background includes starting businesses and working across corporate, nonprofit, academic, and political sectors. Emily's expertise lies in fostering intentional relationships and partnerships to unlock new possibilities.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Visit The Connectors Website
• Follow The Connectors on LinkedIn
• Connect with Emily on LinkedIn

What drives a young Greek actress to leave her sunny homeland for the bustling stages of London? Join us as we uncover the captivating story of Renel Kiriakos, whose bilingual upbringing in Athens and love for drama, music, and dance shaped her into the versatile performer she is today. From professional belly dancing to horseback riding, Renel's diverse skill set enriches her acting career. She also shares her entrepreneurial journey into YouTube, revealing how she stays true to her powerful motto: "Follow your dream and you will always be the winner."

Ever wondered what it's like to study at the legendary Pinewood Studios, the birthplace of cinematic giants like James Bond and Harry Potter? Renel’s filmmaking journey brings you right to the heart of this iconic institution. Experience the exhilaration she felt witnessing the final Star Wars film in production, and learn about her various short film projects in London. Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, Renel has carved out a successful niche on social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube. Look forward to hearing about her exciting future plans and get ready for some invaluable insights from the world of acting and entertainment.

ABOUT RENEL

Renel Kiriakos is an actress. She had from a young age a passion for acting, a characteristic inherited from her family. Enjoying expressing herself creatively, Renel sings, dances, and acts. She achieved merit in grade 3 singing as a soprano. She is also an experienced horse rider. In 2013 she moved to Swansea to study Egyptology and graduated with a BA in 2016. However, her desire to act was still alive and later that year Renel moved to London to focus on her acting career. In the next 3 years, she had added an additional 5 short films to her screen acting portfolio and graduated with a BA in Archaeology. An accomplished writer Renel also has a certificate in Creative Writing from The British Council and has published a book. She also has a YouTube channel under the name 3LH.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Find Renel’s YouTube Channel
• Visit Renel’s Website
• Follow Renel on Instagram

Discover how to transform your networking approach with insights from Emily Weiner, the dynamic founder and CEO of The Connectors. Emily's diverse career journey, ranging from corporate to nonprofit sectors, and even academia and politics, offers a treasure trove of practical advice on building meaningful professional relationships. Learn how her early experiences in various schools and states honed her ability to create strong communities quickly, setting the stage for her impactful work in connecting people and ideas to drive change.

This episode sheds light on the profound distinction between genuine connections and mere transactions, a topic more relevant than ever in our post-pandemic world. With Emily's guidance, you'll understand how intentionality and real care can transform your professional network into a powerful support system. Through compelling personal anecdotes and real-life examples, Emily illustrates how understanding people's motivations and maintaining ongoing, thoughtful engagement can lead to significant opportunities and lasting relationships.

Navigating nonlinear career paths and valuing diverse expertise are central themes you'll explore, illustrated by Emily's unique journey from theater and event production to entrepreneurial success. Gain insights into the importance of personalized communication, especially on platforms like LinkedIn, and how collaboration across different sectors can solve complex community challenges. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned professional, Emily’s story and practical tips will inspire you to leverage every interaction as an opportunity for meaningful connection and growth.

ABOUT EMILY

Emily Weiner, Founder and CEO of The Connectors, is a systems-thinking entrepreneur and business advisor with over 25 years of experience connecting people and ideas to drive change. Leaders value her ability to link individuals and concepts, fostering innovation and impact. Emily has helped thousands, from teenagers to seasoned professionals, discover how to effect change in various roles and sectors. She coaches people to connect with their passions, develop skills, and view societal challenges as entrepreneurial opportunities. Previously, Emily was a founding member of The Lewis Institute at Babson College, growing it into a multimillion-dollar social impact portfolio. Her diverse background includes starting businesses and working across corporate, nonprofit, academic, and political sectors. Emily's expertise lies in fostering intentional relationships and partnerships to unlock new possibilities.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Visit The Connectors Website
• Follow The Connectors on LinkedIn
• Connect with Emily on LinkedIn

How can you navigate chaos with clarity and resilience? Join us as we explore this compelling question with Brian Baxter, founder and president of Performance Critical Inc., and a 30-year veteran of the Texas Department of Public Safety. Brian's journey is nothing short of extraordinary, ranging from roles such as patrol trooper and SWAT team member to undercover narcotics agent and senior executive. His service doesn't stop there—Brian also served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and is actively involved in Gentlemen Inc, a nonprofit fighting sexual exploitation. This episode is a treasure trove of insights on evidence-based decision-making in leadership and personal growth.

Brian brings a wealth of knowledge on mastering stress and decision-making under pressure. He shares how mentally rehearsing scenarios can transform our responses to challenges, similar to assessing traffic at a green light. We'll discuss cognitive biases, selective attention, and how our goals can skew our perceptions. Brian's strategy of using the acronym WIN (What's Important Now) offers a practical tool for maintaining focus on macro goals while managing details. This episode provides actionable advice on how to train our brains to interpret stress as a challenge rather than a threat, ultimately enhancing our performance.

Building rapport and public trust is crucial in both business and law enforcement, and Brian's experiences offer valuable lessons in this area. We'll explore techniques for establishing personal connections and the core values that drive Performance Critical—integrity, objectivity, public service, and extreme transparency. Brian's empathetic approach to conflict resolution, shaped by his past encounters, offers a unique perspective on cultivating trust in high-stakes environments. This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs seeking to ground their passion with practical, evidence-based wisdom.

ABOUT BRIAN

Brian Baxter is the Founder and President of Performance-Critical, Inc. a company whose vision is stronger relationships, enhanced universal safety, and reinforced public trust. A retired, 30-year veteran of the Texas Dept. of Public Safety where he served as a patrol trooper, a SWAT team member, an undercover narcotics agent, an organized crime investigator, and a people leader from first-line supervisor to senior executive. Brian has a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and a Master of Science in Applied Psychology and is a combat infantry veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Brian also volunteers with a 501(c)3 non-profit organization called, Gentlemen, Inc. whose mission is to eliminate the DEMAND for sexual exploitation by identifying and changing the behaviors that create it.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Visit Performance Critical’s Website
• Find Gentlemen, Inc on LinkedIn
• Follow Performance Critical on Facebook
• Connect with Brian on LinkedIn