Elina Panteleyeva is the founder of Dood Woof, a wellness brand for doodle dogs. Here, Elina shares her journey from a tech project manager to an entrepreneur, sparked by a layoff in 2023. She discusses her immigrant background, initial ventures, and how a book inspired her to start her business.

Elina emphasizes community engagement, detailing how she built a loyal customer base by addressing doodle-specific needs, like developing a natural detangler spray. She also highlights the importance of self-care and celebrating small wins and offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs to take action and build supportive communities.

Shane Bauman is a Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). Securities products and advisory services offered through PAS, member FINRA, SIPC. Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. RISE is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. This podcast is for informational purposes only. Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or RISE and opinions stated are their own. Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents and employees do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult your tax, legal, or accounting professional regarding your individual situation. 7861065.1 Exp. 4/27

What’s Inside:

• Elina’s journey from tech project manager to entrepreneur
• How Elina built the Dood Woof brand
• Elina’s advice for new entrepreneurs

Mentioned in this episode:
Doodwoof.com
Dood Wolf Dog Detangler Spray
Elina Panteleyeva on LinkedIn

Dave Won is a TEDx Speaker, Certified Money Coach (CMC), and the Founder & CEO of Dave Won & Co. Dave has been recognized as a global Top 30 subject matter expert by The Outlier Project. 

From conferences and summits to the corporate workplace, Dave has been empowering sales teams to transform their money mindset and turn their money blocks into confident, value-driven conversations that unlock higher-value deals and deeper client relationships. Dave is also a former Air Force captain with a decorated military career and has been featured by TEDx, ABC, EBN, SWAY Live, and Military Media.

Here, Dave shares his story of overcoming generational trauma around money and how he helps others develop a healthy, empowered relationship with their finances. Dave talks about how money blocks impact business owners and why it’s important to uncover the root of the issue. He also shares how to overcome fears of examining the past, transformational client stories, the power of forgiveness, and his experience on the TEDx stage.

Shane Bauman is a Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). Securities products and advisory services offered through PAS, member FINRA, SIPC. Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. RISE is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. This podcast is for informational purposes only. Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or RISE and opinions stated are their own. Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents and employees do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult your tax, legal, or accounting professional regarding your individual situation. 7828951.1 Exp. 4/27

What’s Inside:

• How Dave overcame generational money trauma
• The impacts of a poor money mindset on business and sales
• How to overcome a fear of examining your past

Mentioned in this episode:

Davewon.co
Dave Won on LinkedIn

Motivational speaker, Marine Corps veteran, and two-time world record athlete T. Shane Johnson is one of the most inspiring speakers and sales coaches in the country. Each year, T. Shane hikes across America as a motivational keynote speaker, running from coast to coast to inspire the homeless and veterans’ communities to raise awareness about veteran suicides.

His journey has covered over 7,000 miles and 20 states, speaking in over 60 cities. He’s delivered over 10,000 hygiene kits to those in need and raised over $150,000 in nonprofit funds in just 65 days. T. Shane accomplished all of this while continuing to successfully operate his three businesses and becoming a #1 best-selling author. Recently, he broke the world record for the most pushups in one hour (an impressive total of 3,050 pushups). T. Shane is also a single dad who has raised a successful entrepreneurial daughter.

Here, T. Shane shares his inspirational backstory, from growing up on a cattle ranch in Florida to joining the Marine Corps. After a motorcycle accident left him seriously injured, T. Shane received a brand-new lease on life, and he digs into the impact of second chances. He also shares how he helps guide his daughter through entrepreneurship, the story behind his coffee company, tips for veterans looking to start their own business, and more.

Shane Bauman is a Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). Securities products and advisory services offered through PAS, member FINRA, SIPC. Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. RISE is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. This podcast is for informational purposes only. Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or RISE and opinions stated are their own. Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents and employees do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult your tax, legal, or accounting professional regarding your individual situation. 7793093.1 Exp. 4/27

What’s Inside:

• The impact of second chances on T. Shane’s life
• How T. Shane guides his daughter along the entrepreneurial journey
• Tips for veterans looking to start a business

Mentioned in this episode:
https://www.biggunscoffee.com/
https://tshaneinspires.com/
T. Shane Johnson on LinkedIn

Justin Donat is the CEO and founder of True North Restoration. He started the company in 2015 and franchised his brand in 2021. Justin grew up on a small farm in southwest Missouri, went to the University of Arkansas for undergrad, and received his MBA at John Brown University. When he’s not working, Justin loves spending time with his wife and three kids riding bikes, hiking, and skiing.

In this conversation, Justin shares how he built his business from humble beginnings and how he balances entrepreneurship and family life. He dives into his decision to take a risk and pivot to a new business idea, along with lessons learned from the experience. Justin also shares practical wisdom for entrepreneurs on the journey, why the franchise model is growing in popularity, plans to expand his brand, and how capitalism rewards risk takers. 

Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). Securities products and advisory services offered through PAS, member FINRA, SIPC. Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. RISE is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. This podcast is for informational purposes only. Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or RISE and opinions stated are their own. Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents and employees do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult your tax, legal, or accounting professional regarding your individual situation. 7788664.1 Exp. 3/27

What’s Inside:

• How Justin built True North Restoration from humble beginnings
• Why franchising is growing in popularity 
• Practical wisdom for entrepreneurs on the journey
   

Mentioned in this episode:

GoTrueNorth.com
Justin Donat on LinkedIn

James Hilovsky is a dedicated franchise broker who channels his passion for empowering entrepreneurs and sports professionals by guiding them towards business ownership dreams. With a wealth of experience in customized franchise matching and rigorous due diligence, he ensures clients make informed decisions aligned with their goals. 

Beyond transactions, James fosters long-term success through ongoing support and network building. As a trusted partner, he transforms entrepreneurial aspirations into thriving realities within the franchising landscape.

Here, James discusses his strategies for matching up clients with the perfect franchise opportunity. He shares how his career journey led him to the world of franchising and how he transitioned from a professional athlete to a franchise broker. James also shares why the franchise model is growing in popularity, how he deals with disappointment, how faith shaped his journey, and advice for those interested in franchising.

Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). Securities products and advisory services offered through PAS, member FINRA, SIPC. Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. RISE is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. This podcast is for informational purposes only. Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or RISE and opinions stated are their own. Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents and employees do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult your tax, legal, or accounting professional regarding your individual situation. 7729695.1 Exp. 3/27

What’s Inside:

• How James transitioned from professional athlete to franchise broker
• How faith shaped James’ journey
• Advice for those interested in franchising
  
  

Mentioned in this episode:
TheFranDream.com
James Hilovsky on LinkedIn

Jeff Martinez has served as the President of By Ray Industries since 2004, leading his family business to become a trusted name in cleaning, painting, and renovation for the apartment and multi-family housing industry. Under his leadership, the company has consistently delivered exceptional service, growing its reputation for quality and reliability.

In 2023, Jeff expanded his portfolio by acquiring and renovating multi-family properties. A year later, he diversified further by acquiring Pro Cabinet Solutions, a company providing cabinets, cabinet faces, laminate countertops, and quartz countertops for renovations and new construction projects in the multi-family sector. 

Before joining the family business, Jeff honed his marketing expertise at The Walt Disney Company’s ABC Television Group. There, he worked on iconic shows such as LIVE with Regis & Kelly, Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, and Disney’s One Saturday Morning, creating partnerships and sponsorships with global brands like McDonald’s, Coca-Cola, and AT&T.

Jeff is married and a proud father of four kids, aged 22 to 13. When he’s not busy leading his businesses, Jeff enjoys immersing himself in whatever hobbies his kids are passionate about, fostering strong family connections while staying active and engaged.

Here, Jeff shares what it was like to transition from a successful marketing career to taking over the family business. He dives into how his father inspired him as an entrepreneur and how he’s continuing his legacy. Jeff also shares how he manages two businesses at the same time, his long-term visions and goals, lessons he’s learned from failing, and more.

Shane Bauman is a Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). Securities products and advisory services offered through PAS, member FINRA, SIPC. Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. RISE is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. This podcast is for informational purposes only. Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or RISE and opinions stated are their own. Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents and employees do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult your tax, legal, or accounting professional regarding your individual situation. 7589110.1 Exp. 2/27

What’s Inside:

• Jeff’s career journey from marketing guru to running the family business
• How Jeff is continuing his father’s legacy 
• Important lessons Jeff learned from failure
  
  

Mentioned in this episode:

Jeff Martinez on LinkedIn
Byray.net
Procabinetsolutions.com

Boris Katsnelson is a Managing Director at Black Iron Advisers, returning to his roots in client advisory. He has over 20 years of investment banking, private equity, operating, and transformational leadership experience that span the media, telecom, consumer products, e-commerce, franchising, home services, and real estate industries. 

Boris began his career in investment banking for Wachovia Securities and Credit Suisse First Boston. His first stint in private equity was for the Denver-based family office, the Anschutz Investment Company. Boris understands the entrepreneurial journey well as he has acquired, operated, and exited the following companies: a 100+ unit printing franchisor, a moving and junk removal franchise, a pre-school franchise, an e-commerce bakeware brand, and more than 20 single-family investment properties.

Boris owns Katalyst Partners, an investment vehicle to acquire and provide growth capital to businesses. He is also actively involved in partnerships and strategic initiatives for CrossPurpose, a non-profit focused on abolishing poverty through career and community development. Boris is a first-generation American born in the former Soviet Union. You won’t hear an accent as he immigrated to the US under 2 years of age.

Here, Boris shares his insights into the world of investment banking and private equity and his outlook for business over the next several years. Boris dives into his background, including stories from childhood and how his experiences impact him today. He also shares his career journey, advice for those looking to get into franchising, and some of the most important lessons he’s learned in life and business. 

Boris Katsnelson is a registered representative of Independent Investment Bankers Corp.("IIB"), a FINRA member broker-dealer.  Investment banking services and securities are offered exclusively through IIB. Boris also serves as Managing Director at Black Iron Advisers. Black Iron Advisers is not affiliated with Independent Investment Bankers Corp. 

Shane Bauman is a Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). Securities products and advisory services offered through PAS, member FINRA, SIPC. Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. RISE is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. This podcast is for informational purposes only. Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or RISE and opinions stated are their own. Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents and employees do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult your tax, legal, or accounting professional regarding your individual situation. 7492144.1 Exp. 1/27

What’s Inside:

• Insights into private equity and investment banking
• How Boris’ background shaped who he is today
• Advice for new business owners and those interested in franchising

Mentioned in this episode:
Boris Katsnelson on LinkedIn

Michael Jacobson is the CEO of French Florist, a florist franchise. He lives in Southern California and loves to help local florists flourish across the United States. Michael fell in love with the industry after taking over his uncle’s flower shop. That love, coupled with a scalable model, has helped other florists create a more profitable model while doing what they love. His mindset has catapulted his impact for small business owners in this space.

Here, Michael shares some of the lessons he learned in 2024 and what he’s most looking forward to in the new year, including new business developments. Michael discusses how he overcame skepticism around franchising and what makes his own model stand out from the crowd. He also shares what inspired him to disrupt the status quo, how he keeps leading with the heart at the forefront, what he’s learned from past failures, and more.

Shane Bauman is a Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). Securities products and advisory services offered through PAS, member FINRA, SIPC. Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. RISE is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. This podcast is for informational purposes only. Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or RISE and opinions stated are their own. Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents and employees do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult your tax, legal, or accounting professional regarding your individual situation. 7441062.1 Exp. 12/26

 

What’s Inside:

• What inspired Michael to disrupt the status quo
• Michael’s views on running a successful franchise
• How Michael keeps leading with the heart front and center
  
  

Mentioned in this episode:
www.frenchflorist.com
Michael Jacobson on LinkedIn
 

John Knicely is a husband, father, and business owner. After a career as a news anchor in Charlotte, Dallas, St. Louis, and Seattle, John founded Story on Purpose in 2019 with the inspiration and guidance of Microsoft's chief storyteller, Procter & Gamble's chief storyteller, and several entrepreneurial mentors. 

High-growth companies navigating transitions such as M&A or generational leadership changes often struggle to effectively communicate their value both externally and internally. John and his team clarify and align that unique value using authentic storytelling to drive culture and generate business.

Here, John shares how experiences throughout his personal and professional life led him down a path of becoming a master storyteller. John discusses the challenges he faced when starting his business in early 2020 and how connecting with the right people gave him the motivation to grow. John also shares why storytelling is a game-changing strategy for business owners, how he bounced back from a major deal that fell through, and his advice for new entrepreneurs.

Shane Bauman is a Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). Securities products and advisory services offered through PAS, member FINRA, SIPC. Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. RISE is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. This podcast is for informational purposes only. Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or RISE and opinions stated are their own. Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents and employees do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult your tax, legal, or accounting professional regarding your individual situation. 7425130.1 Exp. 12/26

What’s Inside:

• How John’s personal and professional life inspired him to master storytelling
• How John bounced back from a major deal that fell through
• John’s advice for new business owners
   

Mentioned in this episode:
John Knicely on LinkedIn
Story On Purpose Website

Danaya Wilson is the award-winning co-founder and CEO of BetterCertify. Recognized as a "40 Under 40" honoree, Danaya has helped individuals, companies, and industries navigate compliance and occupational safety education clearly and decisively. Over the past 17 years, she has brought a revolutionary approach to regulatory training that has changed outcomes across different business sectors. 

Danaya’s work is not just about business; it’s about creating pathways for future generations of female leaders, offering a practical and aspirational blueprint. Danaya is also the author of "Change Makers Wanted," a powerful book geared towards women in business.

Here Danaya shares what she’s most looking forward to in 2025, including a book launch in February. She then dives into her work with Better Certify and how she’s a champion for women’s empowerment within her industry. Danaya also talks about why mentorship is so important for women, issues with childcare in the US, how she manages anxiety, and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Shane Bauman is a Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). Securities products and advisory services offered through PAS, member FINRA, SIPC. Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. RISE is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. This podcast is for informational purposes only. Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or RISE and opinions stated are their own. Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents and employees do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult your tax, legal, or accounting professional regarding your individual situation. 7286622.1 Exp. 11/26

What’s Inside:

• How Danaya is a champion for women’s empowerment in her industry
• Why mentorship is important for women
• Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs

Mentioned in this episode:
Danaya Wilson on LinkedIn
Danaya's Book: Change Makers Wanted
https://bettercertify.com/