Founders' Forum

What if the essence of freedom is more profound than we think? Join us for an enlightening conversation with our guests Regina Black Lennox and Ed Satell from the Satell Institute. We delve into the fundamental principles of American democracy, the historical significance of the upcoming semi-quincentennial, and the vital role of free enterprise. Ed provides a rich historical context, comparing the U.S. governance model to monarchies, and sheds light on the continuous pursuit of democracy and innovation.

Explore the mission of the Satell Institute, a trailblazing organization dedicated to enhancing corporate social responsibility. Discover how this initiative encourages CEOs to make significant financial commitments to nonprofits, thereby addressing critical community issues. With over $74m in contributions in the Philadelphia area alone, the Institute's collaborative environment allows business leaders to learn from each other, fostering impactful community support with plans for expansion to other cities.

Finally, learn about the unique benefits that nonprofit organizations gain through their engagement with the Satell Institute. By building strong partnerships between for-profit companies and nonprofits, the Institute promotes community strength and mutual respect.

About Ed:
An innovative entrepreneur and principled business and civic leader for more than 60 years, Ed Satell founded and served as CEO and Chairman of a multi-division media ecommerce provider headquartered in the Philadelphia region. His company has been well-known for a strong, supportive culture of accountability and dedication to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Today, Ed’s vision and energy are dedicated to the Satell Institute, a Think and Do Tank Dedicated to CSR. In 2016, at age 80, rather than retiring, Ed chose to create this unique independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit grounded in free enterprise principles, and he fully endowed the Institute with $15m, so there are no fees or dues to participate. Ed’s vision for serving the greater good—think WE, not just me—continues to grow and thrive.
satellinstitute.org
linkedin.com/in/ed-satell-86a29996

About Regina:
Regina is the Executive VP & Chief of Staff at The Satell Institute.
linkedin.com/in/regina-black-lennox-aa39b61

This episode is brought to you by The Satell Institute; the leading CEO organization dedicated to Corporate Social Responsibility. Go to satellinstitute.org to learn more.

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Can conditioning your mind with positive affirmations really transform your life? Join us as we explore this profound question with our special co-host, Regina Black Lennox, a seasoned educator who has seen the lasting benefits of positive thinking firsthand. Drawing inspiration from David Nguyen's book "Don't Believe Everything You Think," we dive into how Regina's morning affirmations and mindful meditation have significantly shaped her personal and professional life. Regina shares compelling stories from her teaching days, illustrating the long-term impact of positive affirmations on her students. We also welcome our guest, Ed Satell, who offers invaluable insights into living a life guided by positivity and ethical leadership.

Discover the pivotal role of ethical leadership and sound financial habits in building lasting success. Ed Satell takes us back to the days when saving for quality household items was a rite of passage, illustrating how early financial discipline can pave the way for responsible adulthood. Learn how Ed's entrepreneurial journey with American Future Systems in Philadelphia was grounded in the principles of quality, ethics, and customer service. We discuss the importance of providing opportunities for college students to develop leadership skills, and delve into key business lessons, including the power of referrals and integrity. This episode reveals how great service and honesty are the cornerstones of long-term business success.

About Ed Satell:
An innovative entrepreneur and principled business and civic leader for more than 60 years, Ed Satell founded and served as CEO and Chairman of a multi-division media ecommerce provider headquartered in the Philadelphia region. His company has been well-known for a strong, supportive culture of accountability and dedication to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Today, Ed’s vision and energy are dedicated to the Satell Institute, a Think and Do Tank Dedicated to CSR. In 2016, at age 80, rather than retiring, Ed chose to create this unique independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit grounded in free enterprise principles, and he fully endowed the Institute with $15m, so there are no fees or dues to participate. Ed’s vision for serving the greater good—think WE, not just me—continues to grow and thrive.

satellinstitute.org
linkedin.com/in/ed-satell-86a29996

This episode is brought to you by The Satell Institute; the leading CEO organization dedicated to Corporate Social Responsibility. Go to satellinstitute.org to learn more.

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Is the relentless pursuit of busyness actually holding us back? Join us as we tackle this critical question and explore the phenomenon of busyness in modern entrepreneurship, especially in the wake of the pandemic. Ang delves into the psychological aspects, explaining how busyness can sometimes be a defense mechanism against deeper personal issues. Our guest, Will Schmahl, adds a fresh perspective on balancing personal fulfillment with societal pressures to stay busy, emphasizing the nuances introduced by remote work.

We journey through the entrepreneurial life of a remarkable individual who turned childhood inspirations and family legacy into a myriad of successful ventures. From a unique start in bird breeding to the launch of the website Content Place, his story is a testament to the power of creativity and adaptability. Learn about the pivotal moments that redirected his career, including an unexpected injury that led to a transformative shift into the tech and startup world, culminating in their latest innovative project—HousMthr, an app designed to streamline group travel and household management.

Will shares his entrepreneurial journey, underscoring the value of credible advice and strategic partnerships with major booking platforms. The episode also highlights the importance of blending creativity with business acumen, demonstrating how artistic endeavors can enhance problem-solving and brand development. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on the synergy between creative and analytical minds in building a successful venture.

About Will Schmahl:
Will Schmahl is a seasoned entrepreneur and the CTO of HousMthr, an innovative app designed to streamline travel experiences for groups through AI and ML-powered tools. With a rich background in launching and scaling startups, including his first venture ContentPlace, Will brings a wealth of experience and a passion for solving complex problems in the travel industry. Originally from NYC, he is currently based in Philadelphia while leading HousMthr's launch.

Connect with Will:
Website housmthr.com
LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/schmahl
Facebook facebook.com/HousMthr
Twitter x.com/HousMthr

This episode is brought to you by HousMthr; an app crafted to be your travel co-pilot. Go to housmthr.com to learn more.

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Can you keep up with the pace of today's ever-changing business landscape? Join us as we uncover the secrets to navigating rapid transformations in technology, politics, and social dynamics. Our guest, Freda Thomas, shares her invaluable tips on leveraging LinkedIn for growth and how a positive mindset can turn challenges into opportunities.

We take you on an extraordinary journey of a woman influenced by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and raised by inventive parents in Atlanta. From crafting costumes for Broadway shows to touring with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, her versatile career culminates in a surprising pivot to the greeting card industry. Her story is a testament to resilience and the power of adaptability.

Feeling the strain of burnout or uncertain about when to pivot your business? We discuss practical strategies to tackle these challenges head-on. Learn how to stand out in the era of artificial intelligence and become a thought leader in your field.

About Freda Thomas, MBA, CPC, ACC, CPRW, ELI-MP:
Freda holds two distinct coaching credentials —certified by both the International Coaching Federation and the Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching. Additionally, she holds titles as a New York State Certified Business Advisor, Certified Professional Resume Writer, and Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner. Recognized as a LinkedIn Top Voice in Career Path Planning, Freda excels as a corporate trainer in HR-related disciplines, offering expertise in career and professional development. Beyond training, Freda provides personalized 1:1 coaching for career professionals and strategic counsel to high-growth enterprises, facilitating their scalability and success. Notably, Freda has proudly served as a Business Advisor for the Goldman Sachs One Million Black Women Black in Business program, showcasing her commitment to fostering success in the business community. Freda stands out as a true winner, making impactful contributions to individual and corporate growth.

Connect with Freda:
Website consultflt.com
LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/freda-l-thomas-mba-careercoach
Instagram instagram.com/consultfreda 

This episode is brought to you by Freda L. Thomas, your certified professional coach and growth catalyst. Go to consultflt.com to learn more.

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Ever wondered where untapped potential lies? Marc Bernstein kicks things off with a touching story about his son’s act of compassion in the junk business, leading to a reflection on Russell Conwell's timeless message of finding "Acres of Diamonds" in our own backyards. Our guest, Jake Still, teases us with his own fascinating discoveries during junk cleanouts, promising more enthralling stories ahead.

Ready to maximize your marketing efforts for growth? Listen to Jake Still, founder and CEO of Junk Rescue, as he shares his rapid expansion journey and the challenges he faced along the way. With a background in medical device sales, Jake reveals how he leveraged his skills to grow a successful junk removal business, emphasizing the importance of optimizing existing resources, building brand loyalty, and re-engaging clients. His personal anecdotes about transitioning careers and the pivotal role of his educational background provide valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs.

The episode wraps up with an in-depth discussion on building a visionary business. From rebranding efforts to the significance of systems and delegation, Jake shares the valuable insights he gained from books like "The E-Myth" and "Buy Back Your Time." We delve into his ambitious growth strategy, highlighting the importance of a clear vision, employee development, and a strong company culture in achieving sustainable success. Jake’s commitment to mentorship and empowering young employees, especially those from challenging backgrounds, underscores the profound impact of simplicity and self-investment.

About Jake Still:
Jake Still is the Founder & CEO of Junk Rescue. He is a Jersey Native and graduate from West Chester University. He sold medical devices out of colleges to plastic surgeons and ditched that job to become a trash man. “Best decision I ever made.”

Connect with Jake:
Website junk-rescue.com
LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/jakestill
Instagram instagram.com/junk.rescue
Facebook facebook.com/junk.rescueNJ

This episode is brought to you by Junk Rescue; Making Junk Free - Stress Free. Go to junk-rescue.com to learn more.

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What if your voting decisions were influenced as much by a candidate's team as by the candidate themselves? This episode explores the often-overlooked importance of evaluating a political candidate's team, drawing insightful parallels to the corporate world where effective leadership and high-performing teams are essential for success. Our special guest, Howard Guttman, a distinguished business consultant, shares profound insights on how the composition and function of high-performing teams differ significantly between business and politics. We unravel why the strength and capability of a leader's team, whether in corporate settings or government, are key indicators of their overall effectiveness.

Journey with us as Howard recounts his transition from a thriving corporate career to establishing his consultancy, Guttman Development Strategies (GDS). He opens up about the decade-long preparation period, the psychological hurdles of shedding a corporate identity, and the invaluable support from his wife, who now helms GDS as CEO. He delves into his unique business model and shares a trove of wisdom on building and scaling a sustainable business through a supportive internal team and strategic organizational structures.

Finally, we explore the profound legacy consulting companies can leave on corporate cultures and individuals' lives. Howard sheds light on the strategies that allow a business to flourish without the founder's constant involvement, including a consultative decision-making process, regular team gatherings, and a compensation model that encourages collaboration. We also discuss the importance of leadership in retaining long-term contractors and cultivating a culture of accountability and support. Our conversation with Howard is filled with authentic insights and practical advice, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in leadership, team dynamics, and building a lasting organizational impact.

About Howard M. Guttman
Howard M. Guttman is Principal of Guttman Development Strategies an organization development firm that has been in existence for 35 years serving clients around the world. Their focus is on developing high-performance teams, executive coaching, and leadership development.
guttmandev.com
linkedin.com/in/howard-m-guttman-38a81841
youtube.com/@HowardMGuttman

This episode is brought to you by MultiFunding Business Loan Advisors, Fund Your Vision, Fuel Growth. Go to MultiFunding.com to learn more.

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What drives an entrepreneur to leave the comfort of a steady job and venture into uncharted territories? We're exploring the transformative power of entrepreneurship on individuals and communities with our special guest Jack Korbutov PharmD, RPh, FACA, FACVP, and we'll uncover the essence of impactful entrepreneurship and how understanding one's mission can lead to remarkable success. Hear from Marc Bernstein and Ang Onorato as they share their insights on tying purpose to business impact, and how a clear vision can lead to both personal and financial freedom.

From the wrestling mat to the compounding pharmacy, Jack Korbutov's journey is nothing short of inspiring. As a first-generation American motivated by his father's entrepreneurial spirit, Jack's story is a testament to resilience and discipline. Facing the behemoth of large retail pharmacies, he pivoted to create Philadelphia's first modern compounding pharmacy, a move that proved critical to his success. Listen as Jack recounts the personal and professional challenges he faced, the lessons learned from his wrestling background, and the indomitable drive that spurred him on.

We also delve into the strategic and practical aspects of running a successful business. Jack reveals how overcoming regulatory obstacles, delegating tasks, and fostering a strong workplace culture were pivotal in his pharmacy's growth. We discuss his future aspirations, the importance of hiring for cultural fit, and the invaluable wisdom found in classic self-improvement books like "Think and Grow Rich." Concluding with a shared love for EDM, this episode offers a wealth of insights and inspiration for budding and established entrepreneurs alike. Tune in and discover what it takes to make a lasting impact in your field.

About Jack Korbutov PharmD, RPh, FACA, FACVP:
Jack is a Philadelphia native who graduated from the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy in 2011. Just one year later in 2012 he opened Philadelphia's first modern compounding pharmacy. Since then he's expanded into a larger location that is the only PCAB Accredited and USP 800 certified pharmacy in the city, while gaining licensure in 18 states.

Connect with Jack:
Website theartofmed.com
LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/jack-korbutov-43813320
Instagram instagram.com/theartofmed

This episode is brought to you by The Art of Medicine; tailoring medication to make you the best version of yourself. Go to theartofmed.com to learn more.

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Free enterprise and fundamental freedoms take center stage as Marc Bernstein kicks off the episode by sharing his recent induction into the Union League of Philadelphia. Ang Onorato joins in to stress the importance of returning to core national principles and engaging with organizations that uphold these values. We are thrilled to have Dr. Stephen Hess, a distinguished dermatologist from Philadelphia, as our special guest. Dr. Hess highlights his admiration for the Union League’s historical significance and its support for business leaders in the city. Together, they offer a powerful discussion on the intersection of entrepreneurship and American democracy.

Next, we dive into Dr. Hess's entrepreneurial journey with Center City Dermatology. From his roots at Wake Forest University and the University of Pennsylvania to the hurdles of running his practice, Dr. Hess shares how he expanded his team and navigated the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. He offers invaluable advice on finding and retaining the right staff, drawing inspiration from "The 32 Principles" by Henner Gracie and Dan Sullivan's "Who Not How." We also delve into Dr. Hess's three-year vision, his personal goals, and his fascination with Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Tune in to learn how blending personal stories with business strategies can lead to remarkable growth and fulfillment.

About Stephen D. Hess, M.D., Ph.D., F.A.A.D:
Stephen Hess was born and raised in Buffalo NY (and he is still a long-suffering Buffalo Bills fan!). He spent 4 years in North Carolina, and graduated from Wake Forest University before returning to Buffalo for medical school. Dr. Hess then moved to Philadelphia in 2004 and completed his Dermatology residency at the University of Pennsylvania. He (re-) founded Center City Dermatology in 2012.

Connect with Dr. Hess:
Website centercitydermatology.com
LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/stephen-hess-m-d-ph-d-2448781b
Instagram instagram.com/centercityderm
Facebook facebook.com/centercitydermatology

This episode is brought to you by Center City Dermatology; Comprehensive, Contemporary & Customized Skin Care. Go to centercitydermatology.com to learn more.

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Ever wondered how AI is reshaping the business landscape? Get ready to uncover the secrets of AI's transformative power with our special guest, Det Ansinn, founder and president of BrickSimple LLC. From his beginnings in the Midwest to the bustling tech scene of Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Det shares his incredible journey, offering a unique perspective on the resilience and adaptability needed in entrepreneurship. His firsthand experiences provide a rich, illuminating discussion on the significant changes AI is bringing to job dynamics and company roles.

As we navigate through Det's personal milestones and career challenges, we also delve into BrickSimple's innovative approach to technology solutions. Learn about the serendipitous encounter at Doylestown Airport that reignited Det's passion for tech and led to the founding of his software development studio. BrickSimple’s ethos is built around radical innovation, especially in the realm of AI, and Det's insights on the importance of an external perspective in fostering innovation are invaluable. We also reflect on the company's unique strategy of relying on earned media and referrals, underscoring the authenticity of their approach.

In our final segment, we explore the future of business through the lens of AI’s impact across various industries. Det draws parallels to the transformative introduction of the Netscape Navigator, suggesting that AI could not only enhance but also replace many current roles, particularly in fields like DevOps. We wrap up with a heartfelt discussion on the legacy of leadership and mentorship, emphasizing the lasting positive impacts on employees and the broader community. Don't miss this episode packed with valuable lessons and inspiration for anyone looking to navigate the future of business.

About Det Ansinn:
Det Ansinn is a serial entrepreneur and owner of BrickSimple LLC, a software development studio. Det has provided technology business analysis and commentary for Bloomberg Television, BusinessWeek, MIT Technology Review, Talking Points Memo, and MTV. His company’s work has also been featured on Engadget, Joystiq, TechCrunch, VentureBeat, ArsTechnica, Geek.com, GigaOM, MTV, NBC news, Reuters, Rolling Stone, and the BBC.

Connect with Det:
Website bricksimple.com

This episode is brought to you by Verify Protect, Fast, Accurate, and Secure Background Checks. Go to VerifyProtect.com to learn more.

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Prepare to unlock the secrets of successfully adapting to rapid changes in our personal and professional lives. Inspired by the unforgettable "pivot" scene from Friends and the recent passing of Matthew Perry, we explore the art of pivoting. We reflect on the necessity of staying flexible amidst global shifts and the relentless pace of advancements in AI, setting the stage for a deeper discussion on how to navigate these constant changes.

Vikram Ashok, the founder of Graphite, shares his incredible journey from a childhood fascination with marketplaces to creating a groundbreaking on-demand talent platform. Learn about the highs and lows of his entrepreneurial path, the valuable lessons he gleaned from launching and scaling Graphite, and the critical role of adaptability in achieving business success. Vik’s insights on pivoting and embracing change offer a compelling look into the future of work.

We then dive into the evolving landscape of the workforce, spotlighting the rise of the gig economy and freelance work. By 2027, more than half of the workforce is expected to freelance, reshaping how companies engage with talent. We discuss why freelancers should be seen as experts and how the pandemic has accelerated the acceptance of remote work.

About Vikram Ashok:
Vik is the Founder and CEO of Graphite, a technology platform enabling seamless access to the world's best independent talent. Graphite connects Fortune 1000 companies, professional services firms and investment firms with a pool of ~9,000+ independent consultants for on-demand work. Forward-thinking organizations partner with Graphite to operate with more agility by accessing critical skills and expertise in real-time, alleviating bandwidth constraints on their teams and innovating faster. Independent consultants turn to Graphite to access challenging and rewarding work and accelerate the growth of their businesses.

Prior to founding Graphite, Vik was a private equity investor at Quilvest Capital Partners, a multi-family office with $36B under management. Vik holds a B.S. in Applied Mathematics from Columbia University.

Vik resides in Oakland CA with his wife. Outside of work, Vik enjoys spending time with family and friends, playing guitar, traveling to national parks and exploring the natural beauty of the Bay Area.

graphite.com
linkedin.com/company/graphitesolutions

This episode is brought to you by Graphite; the most flexible, right-sized approach to getting work done. Go to graphite.com to learn more.

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