Business Unchained

Send us Fan Mail

About Paige Arnof-Fenn

Paige is a seasoned marketing strategist with a wealth of experience gained from her tenure in both corporate and startup environments, and she is the founder of Mavens and Moguls. She believes that marketing is crucial for the success of a business, making the difference between success and failure by emphasizing authenticity, owning a space in the consumer's mind, and being the go-to solution for their problems. Paige highlights the importance of an online presence and social proof, asserting that credibility and a positive reputation are paramount in the professional services industry. She works with a diverse range of clients, from venture-backed startups to Fortune 500 companies, using a strategic and opportunistic approach tailored to each client's specific goals and needs while maintaining an emphasis on both current and future growth opportunities.

Reference Links: 

• LinkedIn
• Green Ridge Wealth Planning
• BobbyMascia.com
• Instagram - Bobby Mascia
• Instagram - Business Unchained

Paige Arnof-Fenn’s Social Media

• LinkedIn

Mavens & Moguls Social Media

• Website

Episode Highlights:

What if I told you that marketing is the magic ingredient that can make or break your business? Ever wonder why some startups effortlessly capture attention while others struggle to get noticed? In today’s episode of Business Unchained, we are excited to feature Paige Arnof-Fenn, a former Wall Street professional and Harvard MBA graduate.

[02:49] "I had a professor in business school who used to say, marketing is everything and everything is marketing."- Paige Arnof-Fenn

[03:08] "Marketing can be the difference between success and failure, but it really comes down to being an authentic brand, saying what you mean, meaning what you say, and standing for something"- Paige Arnof-Fenn

During the conversation, we discuss the importance of marketing and branding. Paige, who has led three major startups, shares her journey from corporate roles at Coca-Cola to becoming an "accidental entrepreneur." We delve into the critical role of authentic branding, maintaining a strong online presence, and the significance of human connection in today's digital age. The episode emphasizes that everyone is a brand and highlights the need for consistency and continuous learning for business success.

[41:59] "Don't be threatened by the robots because more than ever, I think the human connection, showing your humanity, connecting with people on a human level, cannot be copied by a robot."- Paige Arnof-Fenn

This episode is packed with actionable insights on marketing, branding, and the entrepreneurial mindset. Whether you're just starting or looking to scale your business, there's something here for everyone.

 In this episode:

(00:59) Introduction Paige Arnof-Fenn

(02:02) Marketing as a social experiment

(05:14) Learning from success and failure

(10:37) Initial steps for new clients

(15:51) Creating a trustworthy brand

(19:42) The accidental entrepreneur

(20:05) Transition from Wall Street to marketing

(30:18) Unexpected growth challenges

(38:47) Authenticity in business

(38:51) The importance of personal branding

(40:55) No shortcuts to success

(41:59) Human connection vs. Artificial Intelligence

Send us Fan Mail

About Bennett Maxwell

Bennett Maxwell is the Chairman of Dirty Dough, a cookie brand that skyrocketed from a single shop to over 70 locations in just 12 months. Bennett's journey into the cookie business began unexpectedly. After a successful stint in sales at a solar company, he invested in Dirty Dough's first storefront in March 2020, right as the pandemic took hold. What started as a friend's small venture from an apartment in Arizona quickly evolved. 

Reference Links: 

• Linkedin
• Green Ridge Wealth Planning
• BobbyMascia.com
• Instagram - Bobby Mascia
• Instagram - Business Unchained

Bennett Maxwell

• LinkedIn 
• Dirty Dough
• Deeper Than Dough Podcast

Episode Highlights:

Have you ever set a goal so ambitious that it felt almost impossible? Imagine aiming to open 30 locations in five years, but instead, you find yourself skyrocketing to 90 locations in just under two years. 

(17:08) "I set a goal that I was going to work my ass off until I was a millionaire before I was 30. I hit that, and within a few days, I was working nights and weekends again I realized this was going to go on forever"- Bennett Maxwell

Join as Bennett recounts his transition from pre-med to door-to-door sales, his solar company, and the launch of Dirty Dough. He reveals the hurdles he's faced, the importance of solid business processes, and the drama surrounding the Crumbl Cookies lawsuit. 

(52:21) “I live my life after 5:00 as if I had $1 billion. I go on a two-hour bike ride with my five-year-old, and she tells me, "This is the best day ever." We do dates every single day. Start living the life you want today, even if it’s just after 5:00.”- Bennett Maxwell

 In this episode:

• (01:57)- Introduction to Bennett Maxwell
• (10:21)- Effective approach to closing sales in the solar industry
• (17:22)- Selling his solar company and achieving a million-dollar net worth.
• (31:88)- Techniques for navigating business stress
• (45:16) - Risk in business ownership
• (47:12) - Advice from a successful entrepreneur
• (54:03) - Final thoughts and wrap-up

Send us Fan Mail

About David Knaub

David Knaub is the CEO and President of Flooring Foundation Corp, a leading company with deep roots in the flooring industry. Building on a legacy spanning three generations, David draws on his father's rich experience and influence to guide the business. Founded a decade ago, Flooring Foundation Corp has thrived under David’s leadership, expanding its reach and impact. David’s commitment extends beyond business success; he is equally dedicated to supporting underserved communities, reflecting his belief in giving back. His two sons are now actively involved in the company, ensuring the continuation of the family legacy and values.

Reference Links: 

• Linkedin
• Green Ridge Wealth Planning
• BobbyMascia.com
• Instagram - Bobby Mascia
• Instagram - Business Unchained

David Knaub's Social Media

• LinkedIn

Flooring Foundation Corp Social Media

• LinkedIn
• Website
• Facebook

Episode Highlights:

What does transforming a family legacy into a thriving business empire take? In today’s episode of Business Unchained, we sit down with Dave Knaub, a seasoned entrepreneur who has expertly built on his family's long-standing heritage in the flooring industry.

(03:51) "Taking that leap is the most rewarding thing in the world. If you're able to do it and get through the hump, it is better than any other way to practice your trade and leave your mark on society as owning your own business."- David Knaub

(35:17) “If it's in your DNA and you think you want to cross over from being an employee to an employer and being an entrepreneur, it is the best ever. The rewards are just as proportionately high.”- David Knaub

During the sit-down, Dave shares his journey, emphasizing the importance of delegation and surrounding oneself with top-tier talent. He reflects on the challenges of starting his own business, the influence of his father, and the lessons learned from sports. The conversation highlights the significance of trusting team members, maintaining open communication in a family business, and investing in quality professionals. Dave's story inspires aspiring entrepreneurs, illustrating the power of perseverance and strategic growth. 

(27:41) "There's this law of reciprocation that seems to be out there. We don't do it for that reason; we do it because we genuinely want to do right by the other person."- David Knaub

This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone navigating the complex world of entrepreneurship, especially those involved in family businesses. From the importance of delegation to the value of investing in top-tier talent, Dave shares invaluable lessons from his journey. Let’s dive in!

 In this episode:

• (00:41)- Introduction to David Knaub 
• (04:37)- David's Journey and challenges starting a business 
• (08:51)- The importance of work ethic
• (17:10)- The impact of delegation on business growth
• (21:03) - Motivations for starting his own business and involving his family
• (28:28)- Future vision for the business over the next five to ten years.
• (32:29)- Key pieces of advice and insights for those starting in business
• (35:15)- David’s parting shot 

Send us Fan Mail

About Adam Blecker

Adam Blecker is a mission-focused home care advocate and transformational leader. Inspired by losing his mom to heart disease, he joined his father’s senior companion service in 2009. Over 13 years, Adam co-founded and grew Seniors In Place into a top 5% Private Duty Home Care agency in New Jersey. He built a world-class team, scaled operations, and maintained an ‘Accredited with Distinction’ status. Transitioning the business into a high-growth company, he led it through the pandemic and a successful exit to North America's largest in-home care provider. Adam was Board President of the Home Health Services Association of New Jersey and has been an elder care activist, influencing legislation and industry standards.

Reference Links: 

• Linkedin
• Green Ridge Wealth Planning
• BobbyMascia.com
• Instagram - Bobby Mascia
• Instagram - Business Unchained
• Solutions in Place
• Vistage

Adam Blecker's Social Media

• LinkedIn

Seniors In Place, LLC Social Media

• LinkedIn
• Website

Episode Highlights:

Join us on "Business Unchained" as we sit down with  Adam Blecker, former CEO and owner of Seniors in Place, to discuss the intricacies of running a family business and planning for a successful exit. 

(05:30) “'Losing my mom at 50 taught me that life is short and precious. There are no guarantees"-Adam Blecker

(13:28) “You have to hire for culture, fire for culture, and you have to make the really hard decisions that you need to make around the culture that you mean.” -Adam Blecker

During our sit-down, Adam shares his journey from tech startups to joining his family business, driven by a mission-based career after losing his mother. We discuss the challenges of running a family business, emphasizing clear communication, defined roles, and succession planning. Adam highlights the importance of mentors, core values, and planning for unexpected events. He also reflects on the emotional impact of selling his business and the need for entrepreneurs to plan their next steps post-exit. This conversation is a treasure trove of insights for business owners, particularly those involved in family enterprises.

(15:36) “Family business comes with enormous rewards, but also with enormous challenges and just being eyes wide open to that. " -Adam Blecker

 In this episode:

• (01:53) Introduction of Adam Blecker
• (05:05) Adam's journey from tech startups to family business
• (06:17) Early career and personal loss
• (08:13) Comprehensive approach taken when assuming the role of CEO
• (09:13) Mentorship and guidance
• (13:55) Key lessons for business owners
• (15:21) Difficult conversations in the family business
• (20:37) Preparing for a successful exit
• (22:38) The mindset of treating the business as an asset
• (24:21) Attracting exceptional people
• (24:50) Maintaining core values during challenges
• (27:30) The process of selling the business
• (34:39) Reflecting on the next chapter of life
• (35:06) Balancing personal and professional life after the exit
• (38:20) Defining ideal life
• (40:30) Adam’s mission of living with an impact
• (42:40) How Adam wants to be remembered
  
  
  

Send us Fan Mail

About Rachel Durkan

Rachel Durkan, President of Paradigm Marketing & Design, brings over a decade of experience since founding the company. With a marketing background and an MBA from Fairleigh Dickinson University, Rachel's expertise spans web and graphic design, enriching her strategic vision. She guides Paradigm's growth strategy, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and client satisfaction. Under her leadership, Paradigm has earned accolades like the MCCC Digital Marketing Award and recognition as NJBIZ's Top 3 Advertising Agencies. Rachel is the author of two books, Lessons Beyond the Obvious and Breakthrough Results, co-hosts the Failed Forward podcast, and has received awards including NJBIZ's 50 Best Women in Business and 40 Under 40 Top 25 Leading Women Entrepreneurs.

Reference Links: 

• Linkedin
• Green Ridge Wealth Planning
• BobbyMascia.com
• Instagram - Bobby Mascia
• Instagram - Business Unchained

Rachel Durkan's Social Media

• LinkedIn

Paradigm Marketing & Design Social Media

• LinkedIn
• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• Youtube

Episode Highlights:

In today’s episode of "Business Unchained," we sit down with Rachel Durkan, President and Founder of Paradigm Marketing and Design to delve into her journey of transitioning from her corporate career to founding Paradigm Marketing & Design.

[05:41] "Leaving your real job is terrifying. Hiring your first employee, I remember my first employee whose salary I paid. She said, "I'm going to go get a mortgage." I had to sign, and I thought, "Oh God, I have to keep this together for her."- Rachel Durkan

Rachel shares her journey from accidentally starting her business to running it full-time. She discusses facing challenges, strategic planning, and delegating tasks. Rachel and Bobby explore business growth, emphasizing sales, operations, and leadership. Rachel highlights aligning messaging with the right audience and adapting marketing strategies. Join us for her insights as a leader in marketing and design.

[16:46] “I’d rather have the perfect smaller company that can grow, like cutting out the cancer pieces, than a larger company that is creating headaches or distracting me." -Rachel Durkan

[34:59] “We can use AI to help with messaging, but we're still humans. We still have feelings, and marketing is all about feelings.”-Rachel Durkan

 In this episode:

• (01:29)- Introduction to Rachel Durkan  
• (03:14)- Starting a business by accident  
• (05:13)- Challenges of scaling a business  
• (08:35)- Delegating responsibilities  
• (13:31)- Creating a self-managed business  
• (15:13)- Importance of HR and culture  

Send us Fan Mail

About Michael Carella

Michael T. Carella, a Title Insurance professional since 2002, founded Evident Title Agency, Inc. in 2005. He holds a bachelor's degree from The University of Maryland and is a licensed Title Producer and Notary Public. Under his leadership, the agency has grown to 7 offices in New Jersey and New York, offering nationwide services. His focus on customer satisfaction and transparency has earned the company an "A" rating from the Better Business Bureau and recognition from Secure Settlements, Inc.

Reference Links: 

• Linkedin
• Green Ridge Wealth Planning
• BobbyMascia.com
• Instagram - Bobby Mascia
• Instagram - Business Unchained

 Michael Carella's Social Media

• LinkedIn

Evident Title Agency Social Media

• Linkedin
• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• X (formerly Twitter)

West Essex Business

• Website

vipHomeLink platform

• Website

Episode Highlights:

In today’s episode of "Business Unchained," Michael Carella, President and CEO of Evident Title Agency Inc., discusses work ethic, business growth, and team building. Evident Title Agency offers title insurance, settlement services, bankruptcy searches, and property reports.

[04:50] "What I've learned kind of later in life is it's not only the work ethic of what you're doing at work, it's also the work ethic of what you do to work on yourself."- Bobby

Bobby and Michael share their business journeys, focusing on work ethic, team building, and adaptability. Bobby discusses work-life balance, and Michael highlights expanding from a solo operation to multiple offices. They emphasize self-investment, calculated risks, and strong teams, covering lessons from failures, trust in business, and growth through diverse ventures. A valuable episode for aspiring entrepreneurs and business managers.

[20:28] “Take chances when you're young. You're gambling on yourself, and as life gets older, it gets much more complicated. Taking those risks when you're younger can really pay off later.."-Michael Carella

 In this episode:

• (02:35) - Introduction to Michael Carella's businesses
• (03:18) - Discussion on work ethic
• (07:54) - Challenges in the Title industry
• (10:11) - Growth and team building in the business
• (15:32) - Balancing work and personal life
• (16:44) - Experience and long-term vision
• (20:03) - Taking risks and calculated risks
• (34:50) - The significance of reinvesting in oneself
• (36:08) - Investing in the right people
• (37:59) - Building trust and delegating responsibilities
• (39:17) - Supporting and leading by example
• (42:22) - Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals
• (44:18) - Invest in yourself
• (45:20) - Surround yourself with the best teams

Send us Fan Mail

About George Irwin

George is a global leader in green roof, wall, and vertical agriculture with patented technologies in 13 countries. He manufactures his products and offers professional training through his GLT ProStaff program, ensuring high-quality workmanship and lifetime warranties. For nearly 20 years, George's leadership has emphasized environmental, social, and economic responsibility. His expertise in plants, growing media, and compost drives GLT's success, including their VertiKal Tech and upcoming HOPE Holistic Healthcare brand, promoting sustainable agriculture and quality production.

Reference Links: 

• Linkedin
• Green Ridge Wealth Planning
• Website
• Instagram - Bobby Mascia
• Instagram - Business Unchained

 George Irwin  Social Media

• LinkedIn
• Website

Green Living Tech (GLT) Social Media

• Linkedin
• Website
• Facebook

TheJoint.me

• Website

Hope Holistic Healthcare

• Website

Episode Highlights:

In today’s episode of "Business Unchained," we are delighted to sit down with George  Irwin, a former US rugby player turned green tech and cannabis entrepreneur. His story is not just inspiring; it's a playbook for anyone looking to make their mark in the rapidly evolving green industry.

[58:09] "My success is driven from fear. That's not always a good place, but you either get it done or there's no plan B, there's no failure."

During our conversation, Irwin shares his journey from landscaping to innovating in tissue culture and cannabis cultivation, facing challenges and achieving success. He discusses his commitment to quality, his son's cancer battle motivating his cannabis work, and his vision for a unique dispensary in Atlantic City. Irwin also emphasizes the importance of giving back through education and community projects, while Mascia relates his own transition from finance to franchising and back to his financial passion.

[37:44] I'm afraid to go back to how I used to have to live. Paying my rent, having a car payment, those things scare me."-George Irwin 

 In this episode:

(00:02:01) - Introduction to George Irwin

(00:03:02) - Evolution from landscaping to green tech

(00:06:09) - Disrupting the industry

(00:08:21) - Venturing into cannabis industry

(00:12:39) - Tissue culture explained

(00:22:07) - Defining Success and Entrepreneurial Challenges

(00:35:17) - Community Art Project and Collaboration

(00:35:34) - Building Vertical Farms for the Homeless

(00:49:14) - Parting Words and Legacy

(00:51:04) - Transition to Bobby's Background Story

(00:52:51) - The heir

(00:58:09) - Success driven by fear

(00:58:26) - Opportunity and luck

Send us Fan Mail

About Mo Wadhwani 

After relocating his family ten times in 14 years, Mo finally settled in New Jersey. A move to Austin, Texas, sparked his Iron Man journey, transforming him from an untrained beginner to an athletic sensation and the founder of an apparel brand. Married to his life and business partner, they have two incredible kids who are integral to their brand's lifestyle movement. Mo's story is a testament to determination and pursuing dreams.

Reference Links: 

• Linkedin
• Green Ridge Wealth Planning
• Website
•  Instagram

 Mo Wadhwani Social Media

• Instagram

AthletiFreak Social Media

• Linkedin
• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook

Episode Highlights:

Join us on "Business Unchained" as we chat with Mo Wadhwani, co-founder of AthletiFreak. Discover how Mo and his wife, Noor, turned their home-based business into a successful athletic apparel brand with multiple locations. Learn about their challenges, commitment to quality, and innovative approach to customer engagement through pop-ups and brick-and-mortar stores. Don't miss this inspiring episode!

[11:34] “The woman is a creative genius. She has a background in fashion design. Now that is her expertise because we were relocating, because of my corporate career so frequently, she never had the opportunity to practice her profession.” - Mo

During our conversation, we touch on the challenges and pivots faced in growing a business, such as moving from e-commerce to pop-up shops and eventually to brick-and-mortar stores. Mo shares his personal story of moving frequently for corporate jobs, embracing local cultures, and the importance of family and core values.

[20:28] “What we learned is wherever you go, every city has its own personality and we enjoy traveling. Now, a lot of people move in there like, oh, it's not home., For us It was let's learn, let's embrace this culture.” - Mo 

The conversation explores the spiritual and physical aspects of business ownership, emphasizing stillness, clarity, passion, and hard work. Mo highlights the benefits of working with loved ones and shares insights on starting and scaling a lifestyle brand.

[22:14] “The day you say it's working, you're in trouble. I never want to be complacent. I never want to pause and say, we made it.”- Mo

[33:00] “It's very easy to say you failed. But to have an environment where it's okay to fail, as long as you learn from your mistakes and then move forward, that's how you build.” - Mo

 In this episode:

•          (2:24) – Introduction to Mo Wadhwani
•          (3:08) – The beginnings of Athletifreak
•          (5:55) – How the idea for Athletifreak was born
•          (9:27) – Mo shares his experience of learning to swim
•          (19:45) – Moving to corporate roles
•          (25:20) – The need to pivot business strategies
•          (36:47) – Balancing work and personal life
•          (38:44) – Mo’s daily routine and personal training
•          (39:42) – Recalibration through training

Send us Fan Mail

Our Guest -  Joe Meglio

Joe Meglio, founder of GameChanger Fitness, has turned his fitness passion into a successful boutique brand focused on helping busy adults over 40 improve strength, happiness, and health. Starting small, Joe has expanded to 13 GameChanger locations and authored three books. Balancing entrepreneurship with family, he's also a devoted husband and father of two.

Episode Highlights

Some say the hardest pitch to hit in baseball is the curveball. It’s coming and then it’s not. You think you’ve got a good read on it and then at the last minute, it curves, you swing, you miss! Hitting the curve is what often separates those who make it to the big leagues with those who don’t.. It's true in life and in baseball.

“When you make bad-people decisions, it's like making a bad investment. Right? And, you're putting your energy into something that you should never have done in the first place. Those are always the biggest challenges. It's always the people-side of things, which is the biggest strength at the same time. - Joe, (10:45).

Today we speak with Joe Meglio, a former baseball prospect who redirected his ambitions from the playing field to business. Joe founded GameChanger Fitness, a groundbreaking brand transforming how people of all ages pursue fitness and wellness.

When we're looking to hire . . .experience is not necessarily one of those things that we look for because we know we could teach a lot of the skills that we expect if they have the right behaviors or the right core values. – Joe, (13:49).

Joe stops by to share insights he’s learned along the way, where he sees his business going, how he made it this far. It’s an interesting conversation with a guy who has truly smacked it out of the park, Joe Meglio, today on Business Unchained.

To succeed you need a “bias towards action, because you're just going to learn so much quicker than if you're just standing on the sidelines. - Joe, (38:07)

Business Unchained Social Media

• LinkedIn
• Green Ridge Wealth Planning 
• Website
• Instagram

GameChanger Fitness Social Media 

• Instagram
• Home Website
• Joe Meglio – LinkedIn

In this episode:

• (3:19) – Joe takes the listener down the road to how he first began in business. 
• (4:11) – Joe is transparent about his prowess as a baseball player. 
• (7:50) – In 2017, Joe realizes it’s time for the business to grow. 
• (12:53) – Joe shares what the big box gyms are missing. 
• (14:55) – Learning how and who to hire. 
• (15:37) – Joe defines the culture of his gym. 
• (19:45) – The blessing of COVID. 
• (30:54) – The key players on Joe’s team are discussed. 
• (33:54) – The biggest failure Joe has had in his business. 
• (38:58) – The difference between drive and ambition. 
• (40:05) – The gift of having a realistic vision. 
• (40:40) – Joe discusses where he sees himself in 10 years. 
• (43:03) – Work life balance is discussed.

Send us Fan Mail

About Gillian and Jason Schuler 

Gillian and Jason Schuler, the duo behind Awakened Films, are driving forces in New Jersey's production scene. Specializing in commercials, corporate films, and nonprofit videos, their journey embodies resilience and vision. Starting in 2008 amid economic challenges, they've grown into a thriving studio. They share insights into running a creative business as spouses, tackling tough issues like financial setbacks while showcasing their journey from idea to success.

Episode Highlights:

In today’s episode of "Business Unchained," we have the pleasure of sitting down with Jason and Gillian Schuler, the husband and wife duo behind Awakened Films. Our conversation is lighthearted but also deeply inspiring. 

Their philosophy centers on servanthood and maintaining an impeccable reputation, which is essential for sustaining a thriving business. As the business grows they embrace the benefits of family in business, fostering a legacy of integrity and cohesion.

“Whenever there's dramatic change in the world, opportunity is right around the corner. When the tide goes out, you also see whatever's been hidden.” - Jason, (42:23)

Gillian and Jason unashamedly delve into the heart of what it means to build a business with purpose, passion, and a people-first approach.

“Character is more important than talent; talent only gets you so far, but character can be that next part that takes you from good to great." –Gillian, (15:42).

The Schulers discuss their agility in adapting to market shifts and maintaining a positive company culture. They reflect on the rewards of risk-taking and the importance of values in their community and for future generations, making for an inspiring listen for entrepreneurial spirits.

“Somebody else's ceiling can be our floor, and we build from there.” - Gillian, (50:37)

Reference Links: 

• Linkedin
• Green Ridge Wealth Planning
• Website
•  Instagram

 Schuler Social Media

• Linkedin - Gillian
• LinkedIn - Jason
• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook

Awakened Films Social Media

• Linkedin
• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook

 In this episode:

• - [01:40] Mother's Day plans
• - [07:03] Starting a business
• - [10:50] Pivotal moment
• - [19:21] Keeping employees engaged
• - [21:53] Delegating and growing the team
• - [31:00] Building an evergreen business
• - [38:50] Covid Challenges
• - [44:26] Reflection and Lessons Learned
• - [46:54] Values and Legacy