In this episode of the Know Your Why Podcast, Dr. Jason Balara sits down with Tyler Osborne, a financial educator and public speaker whose journey from a challenging upbringing in San Jose, California to building a successful entrepreneurial career in personal finance is nothing short of inspiring. Tyler opens up about the role mentorship played in shaping his money mindset, how faith fueled his leap from JP Morgan into entrepreneurship, and why having a clear "why" is the foundation of both business strategy and family balance. This conversation is a powerful blend of life lessons, financial education, and honest reflection on what it means to build a legacy while staying intentional about the things that matter most.

Key Highlights:

• How Tyler's background in sports laid the groundwork for discipline and resilience in entrepreneurship

• His unexpected path from aspiring marriage counselor to financial educator helping couples navigate money challenges

• The importance of having a financial safety net and a solid plan before making the leap into entrepreneurship

• Overcoming a scarcity mindset and fear as critical steps toward long-term business success

• How structure, scheduling, and intentionality help Tyler maintain family balance while running a business

• Tracking progress across all areas of life as a tool for personal growth and accountability

• Why delegating tasks and focusing on your strengths is essential for scaling a business

• The role of health and fitness in sustaining the energy and mindset required for entrepreneurial success

Tyler's story is a testament to the transformative power of mentorship, faith, and a clearly defined purpose. His commitment to leaving a legacy — for his family and future generations — serves as a powerful reminder that true entrepreneurial success goes far beyond financial achievement.

Get in touch with Tyler: 

Website: https://moneymasternation.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moneymaster408/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-osborne-854064a0/

TikTok: @Moneymaster408

If you want to know more about Dr. Jason Balara and the Know your Why Podcast:

⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/jasonbalara⁠⁠  

Audio Track:

Back To The Wood by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.⁠⁠ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/⁠⁠

Artist:⁠⁠ http://audionautix.com/

In this episode of the Know Your Why Podcast, Dr. Jason Balara sits down with Dr. Tom DuFore to explore the world of franchising from both sides of the table. Dr. Tom breaks down why business owners choose to franchise as a growth strategy, what it truly takes to determine if a business is franchisable, and how entrepreneurs can navigate the process of turning a successful small business into a scalable franchise model. From building the right business systems to understanding the responsibilities of a franchisor, this conversation is an essential listen for any entrepreneur curious about franchising as a path to business growth and community impact.

Key Highlights:

• Why entrepreneurs choose franchising as a strategic vehicle for business growth

• How to assess whether your business model is truly franchisable

• The step-by-step process of turning a small business into a franchise

• The critical role of systems and operational structure in successful franchising

• Key differences between the responsibilities of a franchisor and a franchisee

• How local franchise ownership creates meaningful community impact

• Common challenges business owners face when transitioning into the franchisor role

• What aspiring franchisees should look for when evaluating a franchise opportunity

Franchising is far more than a growth strategy — it's a commitment to building systems, empowering others, and creating lasting impact at the community level. Dr. Tom DuFore's insights offer a clear and honest look at what it takes to succeed on both sides of the franchise relationship.

Get in touch with Tom:

Website: https://bigskyfranchiseteam.com

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/tomdufore

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-sky-franchise-team

Instagram: https://instagram.com/bigskyfranchise

Facebook: https://facebook.com/BigSkyFranchiseTeam

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bigskyfranchiseteam

If you want to know more about Dr. Jason Balara and the Know your Why Podcast:

⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/jasonbalara⁠⁠  

Audio Track:

Back To The Wood by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.⁠⁠ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/⁠⁠

Artist:⁠⁠ http://audionautix.com/

In this episode of the Know Your Why Podcast, Dr. Jason Balara sits down with Ben Reinberg, a seasoned commercial real estate entrepreneur who has built his success through disciplined market selection, smart asset class choices, and an unwavering commitment to continuous learning. Ben walks through his entrepreneurial journey and shares the investment strategies and core principles that have guided his approach to wealth building in commercial real estate. From understanding market fundamentals to leveraging mentorship and adapting to shifting market cycles, this conversation is packed with practical insight for anyone looking to grow through real estate.

Key Highlights:

• Ben's entrepreneurial journey and how he built his foundation in commercial real estate

• How to evaluate and select the right markets based on strong fundamentals

• The role of asset class selection in building a resilient real estate portfolio

• Why vertical integration and bringing services in-house can create a significant competitive advantage

• The impact of mentorship and continuous education on long-term business growth

• How to adapt investment strategies when navigating changing market cycles

• Key trends shaping the future of commercial real estate and what investors should watch

Ben's approach to commercial real estate is a masterclass in intentional wealth building — rooted in sound market fundamentals, the right mentorship, and a willingness to evolve.

Get in touch with Ben:

Website: https://www.benreinberg.com/

Linketree: https://www.benreinberg.com/link-tree

If you want to know more about Dr. Jason Balara and the Know your Why Podcast:

⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/jasonbalara⁠⁠  

Audio Track:

Back To The Wood by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.⁠⁠ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/⁠⁠

Artist:⁠⁠ http://audionautix.com/

In this episode of the Know Your Why Podcast, Dr. Jason Balara sits down with Dustin Fusillo, who shares his wide-ranging journey from his early working days in Florida to navigating the worlds of politics, entrepreneurship, and cutting-edge AI business strategy. Dustin reflects on how a diverse career path and a series of hard-won life experiences shaped his resilience and adaptability as an entrepreneur. The conversation explores how adversity can become a catalyst for personal growth, and how today's business owners can harness the transformative power of AI to sharpen their strategy and stay ahead in an ever-changing landscape.

Key Highlights:

• Dustin's diverse career journey, from early work experiences in Florida to entrepreneurship and beyond

• How navigating politics shaped his perspective on leadership and resilience

• The role adversity plays in building the grit required for long-term entrepreneurial success

• Using AI as a practical and strategic business tool in today's competitive environment

• The importance of adaptability and continuous learning throughout a nonlinear career path

• How entrepreneurs can leverage AI to refine business strategy and improve decision-making

• Key mindset shifts that helped Dustin pivot and grow across multiple industries

Dustin's story is a compelling reminder that there is no single path to entrepreneurial success. Whether facing setbacks or embracing new technologies like AI, the ability to adapt, learn, and push forward is what ultimately defines a resilient entrepreneur.

Get in touch with Dustin:

Website: https://www.fusillo.us/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fusillo/

If you want to know more about Dr. Jason Balara and the Know your Why Podcast:

⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/jasonbalara⁠⁠  

Audio Track:

Back To The Wood by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.⁠⁠ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/⁠⁠

Artist:⁠⁠ http://audionautix.com/

In this episode of the Know Your Why Podcast, Dr. Jason Balara sits down with Adam Salmen, who shares his remarkable journey from real estate finance to leading UMECC, a global industrial company, through strategic business acquisitions. Adam opens up about the challenges and rewards of navigating global manufacturing and the steel industry, offering a candid look at what it truly takes to build and lead a company with an international footprint. This conversation dives deep into how international experience shapes leadership, why understanding the global supply chain is essential for entrepreneurial success, and what it takes to thrive in the world of industrial equipment and manufacturing.

Key Highlights:

• Adam's transition from real estate finance to global industrial manufacturing

• How strategic business acquisitions fueled UMECC's international growth

• The role of international experience in shaping effective business leadership

• Navigating the complexities of the global supply chain in industrial sectors

• Trends and challenges shaping the steel industry and global manufacturing today

• Key lessons learned from leading a company across international markets

• The mindset and traits required to succeed in global entrepreneurship

As Adam's story makes clear, success in international business demands curiosity, adaptability, and a willingness to lead through complexity. His journey from real estate finance to the global industrial stage is a testament to what's possible when entrepreneurship meets a truly global perspective.

Get in touch with Adam:

Website: https://umecc.com/

Website: https://novastone-ca.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-salmen-131a675/

If you want to know more about Dr. Jason Balara and the Know your Why Podcast:

⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/jasonbalara⁠⁠  

Audio Track:

Back To The Wood by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.⁠⁠ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/⁠⁠

Artist:⁠⁠ http://audionautix.com/

In this episode of the Know Your Why Podcast, Dr. Jason Balara sits down with Marvin Karlow, a former physicist turned successful business owner and M&A advisor, to explore the world of buying, selling, and valuing small to mid-sized businesses. Marvin shares how his background in physics shaped his analytical approach to entrepreneurship and deal-making, and why proper preparation and representation are critical when navigating a business exit. Whether you're a first-time seller or a seasoned entrepreneur, this conversation offers a roadmap for maximizing your business sale value and approaching the M&A process with the right mindset.

Key Highlights:

• Marvin’s transition from physics to entrepreneurship and M&A advisory

• The fundamentals of buying and selling small to mid-sized businesses

• Why early preparation is critical for a successful business exit

• The role of proper representation in navigating the deal process

• Key drivers that influence small business valuation

• Strategies to increase business value before going to market

• The importance of building systems that make a business transferable

• Common mistakes business owners make when preparing for a sale

• The emotional and strategic challenges of exiting a business

• Traits and mindset of successful entrepreneurs during transitions

Getting a business sale right requires equal parts strategy, preparation, and mindset. Marvin's journey is a powerful reminder that entrepreneurs who approach the deal process with clarity and the right team around them are far better positioned to achieve the exit they've worked so hard for.

Get in touch with Marvin:

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/marvinkarlow

If you want to know more about Dr. Jason Balara and the Know your Why Podcast:

⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/jasonbalara⁠⁠  

Audio Track:

Back To The Wood by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.⁠⁠ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/⁠⁠

Artist:⁠⁠ http://audionautix.com/

In this episode of the Know Your Why Podcast, Dr. Jason Balara speaks with Brian Samson about his transition from tech startup recruiting into the world of nearshoring and global talent. Brian breaks down how businesses are leveraging offshore talent in Latin America to scale efficiently, improve collaboration, and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market. He discusses both the opportunities and challenges of nearshoring, while also highlighting how AI is transforming business operations, hiring, and team dynamics. The conversation provides a practical look at how companies can rethink talent, technology, and growth in a more connected global economy.

Key Highlights:

• Brian’s journey from tech startup recruiting to nearshoring

• Why Latin America is a growing hub for offshore talent

• Key benefits of nearshoring for business growth and scalability

• Challenges companies face when building remote global teams

• How AI is reshaping hiring, operations, and productivity

• The importance of communication and cultural alignment in remote work

• Leveraging global talent to stay competitive in modern markets

• Entrepreneurship opportunities within distributed workforce models

Brian’s insights highlight that the future of business is increasingly global and technology-driven. By embracing nearshoring and integrating AI thoughtfully, companies can build stronger, more agile teams while unlocking new opportunities for sustainable growth.

Get in touch with Brian:

Website: https://plugg.tech/

Podcast: https://www.nearshorecafepodcast.com/

Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@NearshoreCafePodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/plugg_technologies/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560663554554

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briansamson/

If you want to know more about Dr. Jason Balara and the Know your Why Podcast:

⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/jasonbalara⁠⁠  

Audio Track:

Back To The Wood by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.⁠⁠ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/⁠⁠

Artist:⁠⁠ http://audionautix.com/

In this episode of the Know Your Why Podcast, Dr. Jason Balara speaks with Paul Salter, a mindset and performance coach, hypnotherapist, and keynote speaker, about the role of the subconscious mind in personal and professional growth. Paul shares his journey from competitive athletics and sports nutrition into mindset coaching, where he now helps high performers overcome internal barriers that knowledge alone can’t solve. The conversation explores how emotional triggers shape behavior, how early-life experiences influence belief systems, and how hypnotherapy can help rewire those patterns. Paul emphasizes that lasting transformation requires both awareness and commitment, especially when addressing deeply rooted beliefs.

Key Highlights:

• Paul transitioned from athlete and nutrition coach to mindset and performance expert

  
  

• Many high performers struggle with consistency despite having the right knowledge

  
  

• Emotional triggers often drive behaviors and decision-making

  
  

• Hypnotherapy works by addressing subconscious beliefs and patterns

  
  

• The first seven years of life play a major role in belief formation

  
  

• Unlearning limiting beliefs is essential for growth and performance

  
  

• Hypnosis is a natural state that can be intentionally leveraged for change

  
  

• Personal development requires both awareness and action

  
  

• Client commitment and openness are key to successful transformation

  
  

• Paul’s “why” is rooted in showing his son what’s possible through perseverance

Paul’s perspective highlights that true growth happens beneath the surface. By addressing the subconscious drivers behind behavior and committing to the process of change, individuals can break through limitations and create lasting transformation in both life and performance.

Get in touch with Paul:

Email: [email protected]

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-scratch-golfers-mindset-podcast/id1742610817

Coaching: https://qsisso5alne.typeform.com/to/IxSaVpmF

Website: https://thegolfhypnotherapist.com/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/thepaulsalter

If you want to know more about Dr. Jason Balara and the Know your Why Podcast:

⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/jasonbalara⁠⁠  

Audio Track:

Back To The Wood by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.⁠⁠ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/⁠⁠

Artist:⁠⁠ http://audionautix.com/

In this episode of the Know Your Why Podcast, Dr. Jason Balara interviews Laurie Maddalena, founder and CEO of Envision Excellence, about the evolving landscape of leadership and what it takes to build effective leaders today. Laurie shares her transition from HR executive to leadership consultant, highlighting how leadership styles have shifted from directive to more facilitative approaches. She discusses the growing importance of emotional intelligence, the impact of generational shifts on employee expectations, and why many leaders feel overwhelmed and underprepared. The conversation also explores the critical role of middle management in shaping workplace culture and the need for organizations to intentionally develop leadership skills rather than assuming they come naturally with technical expertise.

Key Highlights:

• Leadership today requires a broader and more advanced skill set

• Many leaders feel reactive due to increasing demands and responsibilities

• Leadership styles are shifting toward facilitation and collaboration

• Generational changes are redefining employee expectations and engagement

• Emotional intelligence is a core component of effective leadership

• Not everyone is suited for leadership roles, and self-awareness is essential

• Leadership training is often lacking, leaving many unprepared

• Middle managers have a significant impact on employee experience

• Career growth paths should extend beyond traditional leadership roles

• Professionalizing leadership development strengthens organizational success

Laurie’s insights reinforce that strong leadership doesn’t happen by accident. By investing in development, prioritizing emotional intelligence, and creating intentional growth paths, organizations can build leaders who not only perform but also elevate the people and culture around them.

Get in touch with Laurie:

Website: https://www.lauriemaddalena.com/

Get Laurie’s book: https://www.lauriemaddalena.com/elevated-leader-book

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauriemaddalena/

If you want to know more about Dr. Jason Balara and the Know your Why Podcast:

⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/jasonbalara⁠⁠  

Audio Track:

Back To The Wood by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.⁠⁠ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/⁠⁠

Artist:⁠⁠ http://audionautix.com/

In this episode of the Know Your Why Podcast, Dr. Jason Balara interviews Chris Gavre, who shares his entrepreneurial journey from launching a pressure washing business to becoming a real estate investor focused on land home packages. Chris discusses his early success in wholesaling, the regulatory challenges he faced in South Carolina, and how those obstacles pushed him to pivot into mobile home and land development strategies. He explains how land home packages provide a scalable and practical solution to the growing affordable housing crisis, while also offering more predictable outcomes for investors. Throughout the conversation, Chris reflects on his personal growth, overcoming past struggles, and finding purpose through building businesses that create real impact.

Key Highlights:

• Chris began his entrepreneurial journey with a pressure washing business
  

• A mentor played a key role in his transition into real estate
  

• Wholesaling was an early driver of growth but came with regulatory challenges
  

• Market dynamics in South Carolina forced a strategic pivot
  

• Land home packages emerged as a scalable investment model
  

• Developing land for mobile homes comes with a learning curve
  

• Land home deals can offer more predictable timelines and faster sales
  

• Affordable housing remains a major opportunity and need in today’s market
  

• Personal growth and overcoming adversity shaped Chris’s path
  

• Expanding into new markets is part of his long-term strategy

Chris’s story highlights how challenges often lead to better opportunities. By staying adaptable, learning through setbacks, and focusing on solutions like affordable housing, he demonstrates how entrepreneurship can create both financial success and meaningful impact.

Get in touch with Chris:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chris.gavre

Website: https://www.thelandsharks.com/

If you want to know more about Dr. Jason Balara and the Know your Why Podcast:

⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/jasonbalara⁠⁠  

Audio Track:

Back To The Wood by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.⁠⁠ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/⁠⁠

Artist:⁠⁠ http://audionautix.com/