🎙️ Episode 20: Bill Ruark — Building Legacy in Business, Family, and Community 

This week on Beyond the Bottom Line, Bob and Maria sit down with Bill Ruark, one of Northeastern Pennsylvania’s most respected business leaders and philanthropists—known for building and growing companies like M.S. “Chop” & Stone, expanding into energy services, and investing in community institutions like the Wyoming County Healthcare Center. 

In this episode, we explore: 

• How Bill built and scaled multiple businesses—and why every operation must be a profit center 

• What “managing money right” really means, especially in seasonal or cyclical industries 

• How Bill approaches leadership and hiring, including when (and why) to let someone go 

• Why service and loyalty matter more than price—and how that mindset protects your reputation 

• What it takes to restore local healthcare access, and the reality of navigating regulation and “politics vs. commerce” 

• What legacy means to Bill today—and why he doesn’t care about recognition 

  
  

🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast app or watch on YouTube. 

Guest Info 

• Business ventures discussed: Meshoppen Stone, energy services companies, Stone Hedge Golf Course, modular housing (Signature Building Systems) 

• Philanthropy/community: The Ruark Foundation, Marley’s Mission, Soup Kitchen, Wyoming County Healthcare Center 

Questions Answered in This Episode 

• How did Bill Ruark build Meshoppen Stone from a small operation into a major business?
• What does it mean to “manage your money right” as a business owner? 

• How do you stay calm when you’re running multiple businesses and leading big projects? 

• How do you decide which opportunities or investments are worth the risk? 

• What’s the biggest difference between running a business and dealing with politics or government? 

• How do you decide what causes to donate to—and which ones to say no to? 

• Why do some businesses fade while others explode after new ownership takes over? 

• How do you know when it’s time to stop a project or walk away from a bad bet? 

• What makes a business resilient when competitors undercut price online? 

• What did Bill’s generation get right—and what worries him about the next generation? 

• How do you build a team of optimistic, high-integrity people (and keep them)? 

• When is it the right call to fire someone—and can it actually be a favor to them? 

• How do you lead a complex community project like a rural hospital with many stakeholders? 

• What does Bill want his legacy to be—and how is he passing that mindset down?

.

.

.

Disclosures: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Any guest services mentioned are independent of Stone House Investment Management, LLC. Investment advisory services are offered through Stone House Investment Management, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration with the SEC does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Testimonials are unpaid and may not be representative. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Please refer to our ADV and other disclosures for complete information - https://www.stonehouseinv.com/disclosures/

This week’s guest is Mike Normandia, owner of LFG Life Fitness Goals in Clarks Summit and an award-winning trainer known for blending fitness, mindset, discipline, and real-life transformation. A lifelong athlete who once relied on talent alone, Mike experienced a wake-up call in college that set him on a completely different path. After rebuilding his health, identity, and belief systems during the COVID shutdown, he launched LFG—a gym rooted in authenticity, community, accountability, and the philosophy that true strength comes from both body and mind. In this episode, Mike shares how fitness saved him, what it really took to build LFG, and why resistance, discipline, and mindset shape every part of your life. In this episode, we explore: • The wake-up call that changed the trajectory of Mike’s life • How he rebuilt his mind, identity, and discipline during COVID • Why LFG’s community and accountability model keeps members showing up • The powerful link between fitness, mindset, resistance, and real-life growth • What discipline really is—and how anyone can build it like a muscle Timestamps:02:10 The Journey to Fitness: Mike's Personal Story 06:09 Building LFG: Philosophy and Community 08:59 Daily Routine and Member Experience at LFG 27:08 Personal Training and Additional Services 31:01 The Importance of Mindset in Achieving Goals 31:38 Mind-Body Connection in Physical Fitness 34:01 The Role of Resistance in Personal Growth 35:41 Balancing Work and Personal Life 40:57 The Power of Discipline and Routine 46:45 Overcoming Personal Challenges and Rebuilding 52:55 Creating a Positive Community 🎧 Listen now or watch on YouTube. 🔗 Guest Info: LFG Website: https://lfglifefitnessgoals.com LFG on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LFGLifeFitnessGoals LFG on Instragram: https://www.instagram.com/lfg_life_fitness_goals/ Like and Subscribe for new episodes every week! ......DISCLOSURES This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Any guest services mentioned are independent of Stone House Investment Management, LLC. Investment advisory services are offered through Stone House Investment Management, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration with the SEC does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Testimonials are unpaid and may not be representative. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Please refer to our ADV and other disclosures for complete information: https://www.stonehouseinv.com/disclosures/.

This week’s guest is Liz Grad Murphy, Chief Strategy & Operations Officer for Lackawanna Medical Group, LMG Wellness, and LMG Cosmetics. 

After 15 years leading HR, strategy, talent, and operations at Fortune 500 companies like Cigna, JPMorgan Chase, and Prudential, Liz left corporate life during the Great Resignation to join her family’s 40-year medical practice in Scranton. 

In this episode, Liz shares what it looks like to blend business strategy with family legacy, modernize a longstanding medical group, introduce concierge wellness to NEPA, and lead a people-first culture in an industry undergoing massive change. 

This conversation is rich with perspective — on leadership, reinvention, healthcare, and the power of purpose. 

00:00 — Introduction to Business Philosophy 

00:23 — Meet Liz Grad Murphy 

01:22 — Liz’s Journey to Family Business 

02:07 — The Vision of LMG Wellness 

05:55 — Challenges and Rewards of Family Business 

06:31 — Liz’s Corporate Background 

11:38 — Integrating Wellness and Business 

17:26 — Concierge Medicine and Patient Experience 

29:54 — Meeting People Where They Are 

30:48 — Financial Wellness and Community Events 

31:36 — Challenges and Transformations in Business 

34:15 — Managing Personal Wealth and Business Risks 

35:33 — The Importance of Specialists and Team Dynamics 

39:17 — Inspiration from Business Leaders 

48:06 — The Power of Laughter and Healthy Work Cultures 

54:18 — Future Goals and Continuing the Legacy 

55:48 — Conclusion and Final Thoughts 

🎧 Listen now or watch on YouTube. 

🔗 Guest Info: 

LMG Health + Wellness: 

https://lmghealthandwellness.com 

https://www.instagram.com/lmg_wellness/ 

https://www.facebook.com/lmghealthandwellness 

LMG Cosmetics: 

https://lmgcosmetics.com 

https://www.instagram.com/lmgcosmetics_scranton/ 

https://www.facebook.com/lmgcosmetics/ 

Lackawanna Medical Group: 

https://lmgphysicians.com 

Liz on LinkedIn: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-grad-murphy-71bb144/ 

.

.

.

.

.

.

Disclosures 

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Any guest services mentioned are independent of Stone House Investment Management, LLC. Investment advisory services are offered through Stone House Investment Management, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration with the SEC does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Testimonials are unpaid and may not be representative. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Please refer to our ADV and other disclosures for complete information: https://www.stonehouseinv.com/disclosures/ 

In this episode of Beyond the Bottom Line, Bob and Maria sit down with Micah and Lauren Woodard, the husband-and-wife team behind Lavish Scranton and co-owners of The DripBar Scranton. 

Their story is steeped in grit, heart, and genuine honesty — from navigating their son’s rare childhood cancer diagnosis, to stepping into business ownership long before they felt fully “ready,” to expanding Lavish into a 7,000+ sq ft hybrid beauty, wellness, and home boutique with 35+ team members. 

They talk candidly about partnership, fear, leadership, growth, community, and what it really looks like to build something bigger than business. 

 - 

🎙️ Episode 017: Building Lavish: How Micah & Lauren Woodard Grew a Hybrid Beauty + Wellness Brand Rooted in Heart, Resilience & Community 

This week on Beyond the Bottom Line, Bob and Maria talk with Micah and Lauren Woodard, owners of Lavish Scranton and partners in The DripBar Scranton. 

In this episode, we explore: 

00:00 Introduction to the Woodards’ Journey 

01:06 The Origins of Lavish — how the boutique began nearly 20 years ago 

02:36 Taking Ownership — the dinner conversation that changed everything 

05:58 Balancing Marriage & Business — discovering new roles and identities 

12:39 Growth & COV*D-19 — expanding during shutdown and creating their dream space 

19:05 Community Impact — Coaches vs. Cancer, Marley’s Mission & small business support 

35:05 The Drip Bar Expansion — why wellness was the next right move 

38:37 Hydration & Wellness Education 

39:13 Building Lavish: The Journey 

42:28 Navigating Business Challenges 

46:25 Learning to Rebalance Life Again 

50:39 Joys & Struggles of Entrepreneurship 

52:38 The Power of Team & Community 

🎧 Listen now or watch on YouTube. 

🔗 Guest Info: 

https://lavishscranton.com 

https://www.facebook.com/LAVISHSCRANTON 

https://www.instagram.com/lavishscranton/ 

Like and Subscribe for new episodes every week! 

.

.

.

.

.

.

Disclosures 

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Any guest services mentioned are independent of Stone House Investment Management, LLC. Investment advisory services are offered through Stone House Investment Management, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration with the SEC does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Testimonials are unpaid and may not be representative. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Please refer to our ADV and other disclosures for complete information: https://www.stonehouseinv.com/disclosures/ 

What really keeps a community thriving? According to Mari Potis — it’s connection, courage, and a whole lot of heart. 

For 27 years, Mari has been the unstoppable force behind membership, events, and community building at the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce. She’s a nationally recognized chamber executive, the mind behind the region’s signature Empower Conference, the creator of the Chamber Influencer Program, and even served as the official NBC liaison during filming of The Office — helping bring authentic Scranton culture to the world. 

In this episode, Mari sits down with Bob and Maria for an honest, high-energy conversation about collaboration, leadership, changing workforces, and why doing the right thing still matters. 

-

🎙️ Episode 016: The Heart of a Community Connector: 27 Years of Leadership, Innovation & Impact with Mari Potis 

This week on Beyond the Bottom Line, Bob and Maria talk with Mari Potis, Director of Membership & Events at the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, where she has been a passionate connector since 1998. 

In this episode, we explore: 

• How Mari built a 27-year career by “drinking the chamber Kool-Aid”—and why she still loves the work just as much today 

• The origin story of the Empower Conference and how one idea turned into NEPA’s largest women’s leadership event 

• How the Chamber Influencer Program has created a connected, supportive, business-minded “family” 

• Why showing up, getting out of the office, and building real relationships is still the most powerful business strategy 

• The upcoming EDGE Summit (AI for Small Business) and why chambers must evolve to meet the needs of the modern workforce 

• Mari’s personal routines, energy, and the satisfaction that fuels her—even when she’s “always on” 

🎧 Listen now or watch on YouTube. 

🔗 Guest Info: 
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/mari.potis/ 
Instagram:  instagram.com/mpotis0517 
www.scrantonchamber.com 

Like and Subscribe for new episodes every week! 

.

.

.

.

.

.

Disclosures: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Any guest services mentioned are independent of Stone House Investment Management, LLC. Investment advisory services are offered through Stone House Investment Management, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration with the SEC does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Testimonials are unpaid and may not be representative. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Please refer to our ADV and other disclosures for complete information — https://www.stonehouseinv.com/disclosures/. 

Former U.S. Army officer, behavioral scientist, and leadership facilitator Dr. Will Ramey joins Bob and Maria for one of the most energizing and practical conversations we've had on leadership, teamwork, and finding purpose in your work. From deploying to Iraq, to earning a doctorate, to leaving a secure corporate path to pursue meaningful work, Will brings a rare blend of experience, humility, and clarity. If you've ever questioned your path, led a team that felt disconnected, or wondered how to build genuine trust within a group — this episode will hit home. -🎙️ Episode 015: Leadership Is a Process, Not a Position — A Conversation with Dr. Will Ramey This week on Beyond the Bottom Line, Bob and Maria talk with Dr. Will Ramey, leadership development expert, U.S. Army veteran, facilitator, speaker, and host of the Leadership Decoded podcast. In this episode, we explore: - Why leadership is a process, not a title — and how anyone can lead from where they are - The surprising moment that pushed Will to leave a stable career and pursue purpose-driven work - The power of LEGO® Serious Play for unlocking creativity, collaboration, and unheard voices inside teams - How to empower people with different strengths, communication styles, and energy levels - Why working “in your purpose” drains you differently — and why that matters for your career and mental health 🎧 Listen now or watch on YouTube. 🔗 Guest Info: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drwilliamramey/ Instagram: instagram.com/willramey1 and instagram.com/leadershipdecodedpod Website: https://www.drwilliamramey.com/ Podcast: https://www.drwilliamramey.com/leadership-decoded-podcast Like and Subscribe for new episodes every week! ......Disclosures: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Any guest services mentioned are independent of Stone House Investment Management, LLC. Investment advisory services are offered through Stone House Investment Management, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration with the SEC does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Testimonials are unpaid and may not be representative. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Please refer to our ADV and other disclosures for complete information — https://www.stonehouseinv.com/disclosures/.

Entrepreneur. Chef. Mom. Visionary. 

This week on Beyond the Bottom Line, Bob and Maria sit down with Michelle Adomiak, co-owner and chef at Epicurean Delight Catering and owner of Electric City Bakehouse. 

Michelle’s story is one of grit, growth, and grace — from rebuilding her life after divorce with two toddlers by her side to leading one of Northeastern Pennsylvania’s most in-demand catering companies. 

She shares what it really takes to balance business, motherhood, and self-belief — and why consistency, not trends, is the real key to long-term success. 

Tune in for a powerful conversation about trust, teamwork, and redefining what enough truly means. 

-

In this episode, we explore: 

💪 How Michelle turned hardship into opportunity and built two thriving culinary businesses from the ground up. 

⚖️ What “balance” really looks like for a working mom and business owner — and how she’s learning to define success on her own terms. 

👩‍🍳 The art of scaling a creative business — from solo bakery owner to leading a team of 100+. 

💡 Why consistency, culture, and appreciation are the secret ingredients behind Epicurean Delight’s reputation. 

🔗 Guest Info: 

 Website – Epicurean Delight Catering 

 Instagram – @epicureandelightcatering 

 Facebook – Epicurean Delight Catering 

Electriccitybakehouse.com 

Instagram.com/electriccitybakehouse 

Facebook.com/electriccitybakehouse  

Like and Subscribe for new episodes every week! 

.

.

.

.

.

.

Disclosures: 

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Any guest services mentioned are independent of Stone House Investment Management, LLC. Investment advisory services are offered through Stone House Investment Management, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration with the SEC does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Testimonials are unpaid and may not be representative. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Please refer to our ADV and other disclosures for complete information – stonehouseinv.com/disclosures. 

Christian Saunders didn’t sell out — he doubled down. In this episode, the founder of Christian Saunders Real Estate shares what it really looks like to build a brokerage with principles, prioritize people over profit, and lead with clarity in a chaotic market. 

 -

You don’t grow from one agent to 75+ without making a few tough calls. But for Christian Saunders, the biggest one was also the most important: putting people at the center of everything. 

In this episode, Christian unpacks: 

• 🛠️ Why his real investment is in people, not property 

• 🔑 How core principles guide his every decision — even when it's hard 

• 🚀 The quiet power of showing up, staying humble, and playing the long game 

If you’re building a business with purpose, this episode is your blueprint. 

Links & Resources: 

 🔗 Facebook 

 🔗 LinkedIn 

 🌐 christiansaunders.com 

 📞 (M) 570.947.3292 | (O) 570.335.9000 

.

.

.

.

.

.

Disclosures: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Any guest services mentioned are independent of Stone House Investment Management, LLC. Investment advisory services are offered through Stone House Investment Management, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration with the SEC does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Testimonials are unpaid and may not be representative. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Please refer to our ADV and other disclosures for complete information - https://www.stonehouseinv.com/disclosures/. 

Dr. Bill Prebola started as a kid from Harding, PA with blue-collar roots. Today, he leads a 160+ person medical practice built on purpose, relationships, and a work ethic that doesn’t quit. In this candid and powerful episode, Bill opens up about growing a business that doesn’t depend on him, why partnership is everything, and how to lead with intention (and humor) as you transition out of the grind. 

 -

This week on Beyond the Bottom Line, Bob talks with Dr. Bill Prebola, Medical Director at Northeastern Rehabilitation Associates. 

In this episode, we explore: 

• Why getting up and contributing every day beats any job title or credential. 

• How Dr. Prebola built a business that can run without him — and why that’s the point. 

• The importance of saying no, choosing the right partners, and redefining success as your business (and life) evolves. 

🎧 Listen now or watch on YouTube. 

🔗 Guest Info: https://nerehab.com 

Like and Subscribe for new episodes every week! 

.

.

.

.

.

.

Disclosures: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Any guest services mentioned are independent of Stone House Investment Management, LLC. Investment advisory services are offered through Stone House Investment Management, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration with the SEC does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Testimonials are unpaid and may not be representative. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Please refer to our ADV and other disclosures for complete information - https://www.stonehouseinv.com/disclosures/. 

What if you could retrain your brain and body to regulate themselves—without medication, endless appointments, or side effects? Alyse Kerr, founder of Integrative Mind and Body Services and Integrative Counseling Services PC, shares her journey through long COVID, launching a groundbreaking nonprofit, and how she’s using “brain tech” to help others heal and thrive. 

-

This week on Beyond the Bottom Line, Maria talks with Alyse Kerr, Founder of Integrative Mind & Body Services and Integrative Counseling Services PC. 

In this episode, we explore: 

💡 How neurofeedback and biofeedback are helping people heal—without meds 

💡 Why Alyse invested $25,000 of her own money to access brain treatments after long COVID—and how it sparked a nonprofit 

💡 What it takes to scale a business with purpose, culture, and authenticity at its core 

🎧 Listen now or watch on YouTube. 

🔗 Guest Info: 

 🌐 Website: www.integrativemindandbody.org 

 📱 Facebook: facebook.com/integrativemindandbody 

 📸 Instagram: @integrativemindandbody 

 💼 LinkedIn: Integrative Mind & Body Services 

 📺 YouTube: There’s a Protocol for That 

Like and Subscribe for new episodes every week! 

.

.

.

.

.

.

Disclosures: 

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Any guest services mentioned are independent of Stone House Investment Management, LLC. Investment advisory services are offered through Stone House Investment Management, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration with the SEC does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Testimonials are unpaid and may not be representative. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Please refer to our ADV and other disclosures for complete information - https://www.stonehouseinv.com/disclosures/.