A 3am bakery route, a first real estate deal at 18, a tanning salon built on a gut call, and then the bold move: sell it all to go all-in on early childhood education. Richie Huffman, founder of Celebree, joins us to unpack the real story behind building a preschool business that scales, then turning it into a fast-growing franchise with schools across the country. If you care about entrepreneurship, franchising, and building a business that lasts, this conversation is packed with practical lessons and hard-earned perspective. 

We dig into the moments that changed Richie’s trajectory: watching his mother build a preschool and connect business ownership with freedom, learning sales in “real-world” jobs instead of a traditional college path, and hiring true experts to run operations while he focuses on leadership and growth. Richie explains why smart risk is not reckless, how he thinks about worst-case scenarios, and why capacity becomes the make-or-break issue for founders who want to scale beyond the first phase of success. 

From there, we go deeper on franchise strategy and consistency. Richie shares how vetting the right owners matters more than any playbook, how they build talent with skill paths and career paths, and why culture needs simple language people can actually repeat. We also explore his newer focus areas: real estate investing to support franchise expansion, intentional family governance to build generational wealth, and the Huffman Family Foundation’s mission to make children’s lives better through support of Ronald McDonald House and children’s hospitals. 

If you enjoyed this conversation, subscribe on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts, share it with a builder in your life, and leave a review so more founders can find it. What’s the one bet you’d make if you had nothing to lose?

https://youtu.be/qB4DsaLgHNY

Disclaimer: material was prepared by Verdence Capital Advisors, LLC (“VCA”). VCA believes the information and data in this document were obtained from sources considered reliable and correct and cannot guarantee either their accuracy or completeness. VCA has not independently verified third-party sourced information and data. Any projections, outlooks or assumptions should not be construed to be indicative of the actual events which will occur. These projections, market outlooks or estimates are subject to change without notice. This material is being provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and there can be no assurance that the future performance of any specific investment, investment strategy, or product or anynon-investment related content, made reference to directly or indirectly in these materials will be profitable, equal any corresponding indicated historical performance level(s), be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. You should not assume that any discussion or information contained in this report serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from VCA. Due to various factors, including changing market conditions and/or applicable laws, the co...

What if you fell off a cliff in Congo? What if you needed an organ to save your life? These are the real-world problems solved by businesses built on precision logistics and flawless execution.

Don Jones built multiple life-saving businesses in emergency medical transport and organ transportation, creating companies where perfect execution was non-negotiable and logistics were hyper-complex. His story demonstrates how determination, operational excellence, and mission-driven culture can create remarkable businesses that save lives daily.

His company, NORA (Nationwide Organ Recovery Transport Alliance), grew from just 12 employees and six vehicles to over 1,100 employees and 325 vehicles nationwide. The business model was revolutionary. They would maintain dedicated vehicles exclusively for organ transport, ensuring immediate availability, unlike competitors who might divert resources (IE Ambulances) to other emergency calls. 

Jones also built a specialized workforce, hiring former EMS personnel with at least five years of experience. These mission-driven professionals, often retired first responders looking for meaningful second careers, became stewards of the "gift of life."

In this episode, you'll hear Don's story:
➡️ From lifeguard to aviation dispatcher to air ambulance entrepreneur
➡️ Built a global fixed-wing ambulance business handling complex international medical evacuations
➡️ Created NORA (Nationwide Organ Recovery Transport Alliance) with nothing but a 90-day plan
➡️ Grew NORA from 12 employees to 1,100 and from 6 vehicles to 325 nationwide
➡️ Recruited former first responders who brought mission-driven commitment to organ transport
➡️ Managed 70,000 transports annually, starting each day with an empty calendar
➡️ Navigated multiple business exits, including a thorough process with 40 written offers
➡️ Established the Amber Leigh Jones Family Foundation to support adults with special needs
➡️ Attributes success to sports, growing up in tough circumstances, and determined work ethic
➡️ Demonstrates that entrepreneurship requires being "all in" and working when others are not

His career is proof that entrepreneurship starts with identifying market opportunities. Then to build, it must include execution, resilience, and building mission-driven teams that can perform under extraordinary pressure. In businesses where failure wasn't an option, Don Jones built systems that saved

Disclaimer: material was prepared by Verdence Capital Advisors, LLC (“VCA”). VCA believes the information and data in this document were obtained from sources considered reliable and correct and cannot guarantee either their accuracy or completeness. VCA has not independently verified third-party sourced information and data. Any projections, outlooks or assumptions should not be construed to be indicative of the actual events which will occur. These projections, market outlooks or estimates are subject to change without notice. This material is being provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and there can be no assurance that the future performance of any specific investment, investment strategy, or product or anynon-investment related content, made reference to directly or indirectly in these materials will be profitable, equal any corresponding indicated historical performance level(s), be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. You should not assume that any discussion or information contained in this report serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from VCA. Due to various factors, including changing market conditions and/or applicable laws, the co...

What if plastic could disappear in just 8 weeks instead of 1,000 years? That's the revolutionary promise behind Plant Switch, a company transforming how we think about sustainable materials.

Dillon Baxter, founder of PlantSwitch, walks us through his experience  creating a truly biodegradable alternative to plastic that doesn't compromise on performance or break the bank. Unlike those dreaded paper straws that dissolve in your drink or flimsy wooden utensils that splinter, PlantSwitch products maintain the durability and functionality we expect from plastic while completely biodegrading in as little as two months.

The implications are staggering. With microplastics now found in human brains, hearts, and reproductive organs, this innovation addresses both environmental waste and emerging health concerns. But what makes PlantSwitch truly remarkable is how they've overcome the primary hurdle that has held back sustainable alternatives: cost. By using agricultural waste like rice husks, they've created a commercially viable solution that major players like Walmart and Taylor Farms have already embraced.

Our conversation explores how Dillon transitioned from college golfer to investment banker to groundbreaking entrepreneur, navigating the challenges of scaling a business and maintaining focus amid explosive growth opportunities. We discuss the vision for PlantSwitch to become the leader in green plastics across multiple industries, potentially replacing conventional plastics in countless applications beyond their current food packaging focus.

Follow PlantSwitch's remarkable journey and discover how they're creating a world where we can enjoy the benefits of plastic without the lasting environmental consequences.

https://youtu.be/JoshV4muYeU

Disclaimer: material was prepared by Verdence Capital Advisors, LLC (“VCA”). VCA believes the information and data in this document were obtained from sources considered reliable and correct and cannot guarantee either their accuracy or completeness. VCA has not independently verified third-party sourced information and data. Any projections, outlooks or assumptions should not be construed to be indicative of the actual events which will occur. These projections, market outlooks or estimates are subject to change without notice. This material is being provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and there can be no assurance that the future performance of any specific investment, investment strategy, or product or anynon-investment related content, made reference to directly or indirectly in these materials will be profitable, equal any corresponding indicated historical performance level(s), be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. You should not assume that any discussion or information contained in this report serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from VCA. Due to various factors, including changing market conditions and/or applicable laws, the co...

Imagine transforming bare dirt into one of America's most prestigious golf destinations. Dennis Satyshur helped do exactly that at Caves Valley Golf Club, and his journey exemplifies entrepreneurial vision in an unexpected setting.

When Satyshur first interviewed at Caves Valley in 1990, the "club" consisted of a trailer on empty land. Taking a career-defining risk at age 40, he left his established position at Baltimore Country Club to help build something extraordinary from scratch. "I felt like this was time to take a chance," Satyshur reflects, recognizing the perfect alignment between his skills and the vision for a national club that would draw business to Baltimore.

What followed was a masterclass in creating organizational culture. While Tom Fazio designed a world-class course, Satyshur focused on crafting an experience that made every member and guest feel valued. He personally greeted members daily, joined them for impromptu nine-hole rounds, and fostered an environment where "you people know and you know what they like." This attention to detail became Caves Valley's hallmark.

The club weathered financial challenges in the 1990s by refusing to compromise on quality. "We acted like we had a room full of money," Satyshur explains. "We didn't cut back on anything, we just kept delivering the goods." This commitment paid dividends as Caves Valley hosted presidents, the BMW Championship, and earned recognition alongside America's most impressive clubs.

Satyshur's leadership principles—consistency, relationship-building, attention to detail, and outcome-focused service—offer valuable lessons for entrepreneurs across industries. After 30+ years guiding Caves Valley's development and mentoring dozens of golf professionals, his greatest reward came when they removed his staff blue jacket and presented him with a member's red jacket upon retirement.

Join us for an intimate conversation about building something truly special, maintaining standards through challenges, and creating a legacy that continues to flourish as the BMW Championship returns to Caves Valley. What started as dirt and dreams has become a premier golf legacy.

https://youtu.be/YrRfaqhm8Lg

Disclaimer: material was prepared by Verdence Capital Advisors, LLC (“VCA”). VCA believes the information and data in this document were obtained from sources considered reliable and correct and cannot guarantee either their accuracy or completeness. VCA has not independently verified third-party sourced information and data. Any projections, outlooks or assumptions should not be construed to be indicative of the actual events which will occur. These projections, market outlooks or estimates are subject to change without notice. This material is being provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and there can be no assurance that the future performance of any specific investment, investment strategy, or product or anynon-investment related content, made reference to directly or indirectly in these materials will be profitable, equal any corresponding indicated historical performance level(s), be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. You should not assume that any discussion or information contained in this report serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from VCA. Due to various factors, including changing market conditions and/or applicable laws, the co...

What if the most valuable AI companies of the next decade haven't even been founded yet? While everyone's talking about ChatGPT and large language models, the real revolution lies ahead in the applications built on this infrastructure, just as Uber transformed transportation by building on mobile technology.

Paul Palmieri, founder of Grit Capital Partners and former founder of unicorn company Millennial Media, brings a unique perspective to this pivotal moment in technological history. Having witnessed firsthand the mobile revolution while at Verizon in the early 2000s, Palmieri sees striking parallels to today's AI explosion. The infrastructure builders lay the foundation, but it's the application developers who create the solutions that transform.

This conversation explores why AI represents a "once in four generations" opportunity that may be larger than the industrial revolution itself. Paul and Leo discuss how AI will reshape work and productivity, why today's fear of job displacement misses the point, and how Grit Capital identifies entrepreneurs with the vision and resilience to build market-leading AI applications in fintech, commerce, marketing, and media.

The true villain in this AI story isn't the technology itself but our failure to engage with it. As Palmieri notes, "Young people will be AI natives just like they were mobile natives," and those who don't spend time learning these tools risk being left behind. Companies are already seeing dramatic shifts, with Pinterest reporting that 25% of their current code was written by AI, while Microsoft puts their number at 30-40%.

For entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals, this conversation offers a glimpse into understanding where AI is headed beyond today's headlines. The revolution is just beginning, and the most exciting opportunities lie in applying this technology to solve specific industry problems in innovative ways. This episode offers a forecast of what's coming in the next wave of technological disruption.

https://youtu.be/ZyWfxKVyhrg

Disclaimer: material was prepared by Verdence Capital Advisors, LLC (“VCA”). VCA believes the information and data in this document were obtained from sources considered reliable and correct and cannot guarantee either their accuracy or completeness. VCA has not independently verified third-party sourced information and data. Any projections, outlooks or assumptions should not be construed to be indicative of the actual events which will occur. These projections, market outlooks or estimates are subject to change without notice. This material is being provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and there can be no assurance that the future performance of any specific investment, investment strategy, or product or anynon-investment related content, made reference to directly or indirectly in these materials will be profitable, equal any corresponding indicated historical performance level(s), be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. You should not assume that any discussion or information contained in this report serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from VCA. Due to various factors, including changing market conditions and/or applicable laws, the co...

What happens behind the scenes when you pick up your prescription? Cory Easton pulls back the curtain on pharmacy benefits managemen, healthcare's complex middleman industry that determines what you and your employer pay for medications.

In this conversation, Cory shares his remarkable journey from being employee #500 at Express Scripts to watching it grow to 35,000 employees managing $110 billion in pharmacy benefits. The turning point in his career came when his boss tore up Cory's compensation request after a major sale and doubled the amount, teaching him a leadership lesson that would guide his future: "I can take better care of you than you can take care of yourself."

This philosophy inspired Cory when he and his partner Scott Vogel founded Confidio, targeting the underserved small-to-mid-sized company market. Their partnership thrived despite a 14-year age gap because of shared values and mutual respect. "Everything's easy when things are going well," Corey reflects, "It's when things get tough" that partnerships prove their worth. Their commitment to bootstrapping the business and hiring only "A-plus players" helped them reach #81 on the Inc 5000 list before a successful exit that garnered 19 acquisition offers.

Now, through his family office White Whisker Companies and philanthropic initiatives, Cory focuses on sustainability and legacy. He's established an educational program at the University of Maryland and created an endowment funding 500 scholarships to introduce students intentionally to an industry most professionals enter "through the back door." His story demonstrates that entrepreneurial success depends on people, passion, and intention. These are principles that continue guiding him in his post-exit chapter.

https://youtu.be/RLB-3yxTQsg

Disclaimer: material was prepared by Verdence Capital Advisors, LLC (“VCA”). VCA believes the information and data in this document were obtained from sources considered reliable and correct and cannot guarantee either their accuracy or completeness. VCA has not independently verified third-party sourced information and data. Any projections, outlooks or assumptions should not be construed to be indicative of the actual events which will occur. These projections, market outlooks or estimates are subject to change without notice. This material is being provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and there can be no assurance that the future performance of any specific investment, investment strategy, or product or anynon-investment related content, made reference to directly or indirectly in these materials will be profitable, equal any corresponding indicated historical performance level(s), be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. You should not assume that any discussion or information contained in this report serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from VCA. Due to various factors, including changing market conditions and/or applicable laws, the co...

Guest: Dee Anna Sobczak, Founder of ThinkBig Networks
Host: Leo Kelly, CEO of Verdence Capital Advisors

In this episode of From the Ground Up, we sit down with Dee Anna Sobczak, the visionary behind ThinkBig Networks, a company transforming broadband infrastructure by bringing high-speed fiber internet to underserved communities. Unlike traditional internet providers, ThinkBig Networks focuses on bridging the digital divide—connecting homes, businesses, and communities with cutting-edge technology in areas often overlooked by major carriers.

This episode covers:
• Dee Anna's early beginnings in community college and the entrepreneurial spirit 
• First business success in the accounting industry 
• Challenges faced while managing family and business 
• Strategies for navigating downturns in the telecommunications industry 
• Insight on the process of selling a company and preparing for investment 
• Emphasis on the importance of education and continuous learning 
• Commitment to underserved communities through internet service 
• The thrill of entrepreneurship and embracing challenges 
• Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs about resilience and embracing failure 

https://youtu.be/iPmlAd6SbNQ

Disclaimer: material was prepared by Verdence Capital Advisors, LLC (“VCA”). VCA believes the information and data in this document were obtained from sources considered reliable and correct and cannot guarantee either their accuracy or completeness. VCA has not independently verified third-party sourced information and data. Any projections, outlooks or assumptions should not be construed to be indicative of the actual events which will occur. These projections, market outlooks or estimates are subject to change without notice. This material is being provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and there can be no assurance that the future performance of any specific investment, investment strategy, or product or anynon-investment related content, made reference to directly or indirectly in these materials will be profitable, equal any corresponding indicated historical performance level(s), be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. You should not assume that any discussion or information contained in this report serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from VCA. Due to various factors, including changing market conditions and/or applicable laws, the co...

What does it take to turn an idea at your kitchen table into a multi-billion-dollar success?

In this episode of From the Ground Up, Leo Kelly sits down with Mary Ann Scully—founder and former CEO of Howard Bank and Dean of Loyola’s Sellinger School of Business—to reflect on her incredible journey.

Throughout her 40-year career, Mary Ann navigated complex challenges like the financial crisis with resilience and innovation, offering a rare glimpse into the strategic decision-making that fueled her success. Her story is a beacon for those who value adaptability and the continuous pursuit of improvement.

Mary Ann's experience in founding a community bank underscores the power of recognizing and seizing opportunities, even in the face of economic uncertainty. She highlights the importance of personal relationships and local connections, focusing on the small businesses that form the economy's backbone.

Her strategic vision allowed Howard Bank to flourish during the Great Recession, demonstrating the significance of calculated growth and the critical role of leadership and networking in entrepreneurial success.

For young women stepping into the business world, Mary Ann offers empowering advice on confidence, risk-taking, and learning from failure.

She also discusses the generational nuances between millennials and Gen Z, emphasizing their unique strengths and challenges in today's digital landscape.

Mary Ann reflects on her own shift from banking to academia, driven by the desire to make a meaningful impact. Her enthusiasm for nurturing the next generation of leaders within the Loyola University community is truly inspiring, promising valuable lessons on career transitions, resilience, and the power of community support.

https://youtu.be/BiR98bKzqYs

Disclaimer: material was prepared by Verdence Capital Advisors, LLC (“VCA”). VCA believes the information and data in this document were obtained from sources considered reliable and correct and cannot guarantee either their accuracy or completeness. VCA has not independently verified third-party sourced information and data. Any projections, outlooks or assumptions should not be construed to be indicative of the actual events which will occur. These projections, market outlooks or estimates are subject to change without notice. This material is being provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and there can be no assurance that the future performance of any specific investment, investment strategy, or product or anynon-investment related content, made reference to directly or indirectly in these materials will be profitable, equal any corresponding indicated historical performance level(s), be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. You should not assume that any discussion or information contained in this report serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from VCA. Due to various factors, including changing market conditions and/or applicable laws, the co...

Chris Brandenburg has been at the forefront of tech innovation, leading startups through the evolution of building, growing, and then transitioning from a private to a public company.

You’ll hear stories about how he and his business partner, Paul, tackled mobile technology before smartphones dominated the scene and how they approached app development and monetization when it was still uncharted territory.

Chris's take on leadership, including knowing when to step aside, offers some practical advice for anyone starting out or running a business. And, as a bonus, he shares some personal moments—like hosting big Thanksgiving dinners—that give a glimpse into his life outside the boardroom.

Now, as an angel investor and mentor, Chris is helping the next wave of entrepreneurs. He talks about how he’s guiding startups, not just by investing money but by rolling up his sleeves. You’ll also hear his thoughts on the growing role of AI in business, the importance of building a brand, and why giving back, like his work with the Maryland Food Bank, is so important to him.

Whether you're into tech, startups, or the future of AI, this episode has plenty to offer.

https://youtu.be/yYBDHE3y4s0

Disclaimer: material was prepared by Verdence Capital Advisors, LLC (“VCA”). VCA believes the information and data in this document were obtained from sources considered reliable and correct and cannot guarantee either their accuracy or completeness. VCA has not independently verified third-party sourced information and data. Any projections, outlooks or assumptions should not be construed to be indicative of the actual events which will occur. These projections, market outlooks or estimates are subject to change without notice. This material is being provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and there can be no assurance that the future performance of any specific investment, investment strategy, or product or anynon-investment related content, made reference to directly or indirectly in these materials will be profitable, equal any corresponding indicated historical performance level(s), be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. You should not assume that any discussion or information contained in this report serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from VCA. Due to various factors, including changing market conditions and/or applicable laws, the co...

Ever wondered how someone could shift from crunching numbers as an accountant to becoming a leading figure in financial advisor recruiting? Mindy Diamond, CEO of Diamond Consultants, shares her extraordinary journey in this episode. From starting her business on her bedroom floor to managing more than a quarter of a trillion dollars in assets, Mindy's story is a testament to resilience and innovation. She sheds light on the challenges she faced in a male-dominated industry during the 1990s and how her focus on relationships over transactions has redefined success in the recruiting landscape.

You'll also hear about the personal milestones that marked Mindy's path to success, including the pivotal role of family in her business. Discover how her sons joined the enterprise and took on leadership roles, contributing to the multi-generational success of Diamond Consultants. This episode underscores the importance of doing the right thing and maintaining core values, even when faced with tempting buyout offers. Learn how Mindy's commitment to her clients and her unique approach to consulting have built lasting, meaningful connections in the industry.

We also explore the dynamic world of wealth management, from the dominance of wirehouses to the rise of independent advisories. Mindy provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape and the entrepreneurial spirit required to navigate it. Listen in as she recounts the creation of her podcast and the journey of becoming a reluctant author. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone looking to understand the balance between financial success and genuine care for clients, the importance of family in business, and the joy of building a legacy that stands the test of time.

https://youtu.be/Q1qY5JzqTL0

Disclaimer: material was prepared by Verdence Capital Advisors, LLC (“VCA”). VCA believes the information and data in this document were obtained from sources considered reliable and correct and cannot guarantee either their accuracy or completeness. VCA has not independently verified third-party sourced information and data. Any projections, outlooks or assumptions should not be construed to be indicative of the actual events which will occur. These projections, market outlooks or estimates are subject to change without notice. This material is being provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and there can be no assurance that the future performance of any specific investment, investment strategy, or product or anynon-investment related content, made reference to directly or indirectly in these materials will be profitable, equal any corresponding indicated historical performance level(s), be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. You should not assume that any discussion or information contained in this report serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from VCA. Due to various factors, including changing market conditions and/or applicable laws, the co...