What would you do if your boss kept handing you late paychecks—and then expected you not to cash them? For Louis Luong, that was the breaking point. In this raw and insightful episode, Louis shares how he went from being overworked, underpaid, and mentally exhausted... to building a thriving video production business in Los Angeles, earning $96,000+ and working with major clients like Orca Security and Clutch Solutions.🔥 In This Episode You'll Learn:Why Louis left his 9–5 job after 9 late paychecks (00:00)How college skits led to a full-time video career (08:11)The gritty details of surviving as a solo creator in LA (13:12)His client acquisition strategy using Instagram and LinkedIn (49:24)What it's like working in the cybersecurity and mental health niches (36:05)Why Louis publicly shares his income and career stats online (1:07:33)The exact strategy he used to go from $500 music videos to $10,000 shoots (1:04:54)How he and his wife paid off debt and changed their life with business income (1:20:27)Real talk about burnout, identity, and building a reputation in the creator economy (1:10:07)💡 Whether you're a freelancer, videographer, creative, or someone trying to escape the golden handcuffs of a toxic job—this episode is packed with value, inspiration, and tactical advice.📍 Chapters & Timestamps00:00 – Why Louis quit his job08:11 – Early days at Drake & starting in video13:12 – Being a one-man video crew28:34 – Taking video production fully in-house36:05 – Working in cybersecurity & mental health industries46:53 – Quitting after 9 late paychecks49:24 – Finding new clients on social1:04:54 – The $500 → $10,000 project scaling method1:07:33 – Public income recaps and radical transparency1:20:27 – Paying off debt and redefining successThanks for tuning in for this episode of the Rhymes with Odd podcast.

In this raw and powerful episode, we sit down with Will Keeps—a former Chicago gang member turned community leader, musician, and founder of Starts Right Here, a nonprofit transforming the lives of at-risk youth in Des Moines, Iowa.Will shares his incredible life story, from surviving abuse and gang violence to getting signed by Mary J. Blige and ultimately finding his true calling: mentoring and educating the youth that society often overlooks.

🎧 What You’ll Hear in This Episode: Will’s journey through childhood trauma and gang lifeWhat it was like being signed to Mary J. Blige’s record labelThe reality of being shot, and how near-death experiences changed his pathFounding Starts Right Here and helping "kids in the dirt" find their lightCollaborating with state leaders and high officials for real community changeThe heartbreaking events of January 23, 2023, and how he kept pushing forwardHis unfiltered thoughts on authenticity, faith, and not pleasing everyoneWhy he refuses to dilute his message—and how you can help his mission💥 Will’s story isn’t just inspirational—it’s transformational. Whether you’re navigating your own struggles or looking for hope in hard places, this conversation will challenge you to think bigger about purpose, resilience, and leadership.🔗 Support Starts Right HereLearn more or donate: https://startsrighthere.org📚 Grab Will’s Book "Willpower"Available on Amazon and at https://willkeeps.com

What if you committed to publishing a podcast every single day—for five years—without missing ONE? That’s exactly what Delaney Howell did. In this jaw-dropping episode, she shares the ups, downs, and wild moments from building a podcasting empire straight from rural Iowa.Delaney is not just a podcaster—she’s a business powerhouse. She runs 5 companies ranging from agriculture to real estate to digital marketing, and she shares how she balances it all while staying connected to her farm roots.🔥 Inside this episode:Why she started her podcast and how it grew to 1,800+ episodesThe power of consistency (and how it saved her brand)How she built a 5-business portfolio with her husbandCreating content during burnout and how she reignited passionHer vision for a women-led rural business networkMarketing insights for small ag-based companiesWhy picking the right partner is key to successHow one stranger on a plane changed everything

Check out her community: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577367116402

What happens when you grow up with a blind mother and a quadriplegic father? If you're Adam Clarke, you turn resilience into creative fuel. In this powerful episode, Adam shares how his unique upbringing gave him the grit, perspective, and curiosity to build a career in design and leadership that spans agencies, in-house teams, and branding for Fortune 500 companies. Today, Adam leads a creative team for a large insurance and annuities company

💡 We dive into:How early adversity built a lifelong creative mindsetTransitioning from hands-on design to leading creative teamsThe real difference between agency and in-house creative workHow to make "boring" industries like finance emotionally compellingWhy collaboration and ego-free design are the futureHow AI is changing (but not replacing) creative workWhy Pinterest is STILL his go-to inspiration source in 2025Adam is currently the Director of Brand and Creative Services at Athen, and his wisdom applies to creatives, marketers, and entrepreneurs alike.👀 Subscribe for more deep dives with creatives and business builders.📱 Follow us on socials for podcast clips, BTS, and more content:📸 Instagram | 🎬 TikTok | 🧠 LinkedIn#CreativeDirector #Branding #DesignLeadership #InHouseCreative #RhymesWithOddPodcast #AdamClarke #CreativeCareer #MarketingStrategyThanks for tuning in for this episode of the Rhymes with Odd podcast. Make sure to subscribe to catch future interviews. Follow on TikTok: @rhymeswithoddFollow on Instagram: @rhymeswithodd#RhymeswithOdd #BusinessPodcast

In this episode, we sit down with serial entrepreneur and real estate investor Kirk Lautensleger, a man who has built an unconventional life by buying a new business nearly every year. From failing forward to designing a life of time and health freedom, Kirk shares the blueprint behind his growing business empire — and how YOU can start doing the same.

Kirk has built and acquired everything from massage franchises and real estate portfolios to streaming yoga platforms and finance companies.

With 20+ years of entrepreneurial experience, he reveals why buying existing businesses is smarter than starting from scratch, how he creatively finances deals, and the real definition of success (hint: it’s not just money).

🔑 In This Episode, You'll Learn:00:00 – Failing forward: Why Kirk embraces obstacles01:55 – Buying vs. building: The smarter way to own a business05:25 – The appeal of acquisition entrepreneurship07:45 – Owning a window & door business by chance10:24 – Why he skipped expensive masterminds16:10 – How he uses real estate to fund his lifestyle23:59 – From Wall Street dreams to yoga startup pivots32:31 – Skills learned across wildly different industries37:59 – Why time is greater than money43:00 – Avoiding shiny object syndrome51:02 – Scaling with operators in each business1:05:11 – The business opportunity in education (massage therapy school)1:26:17 – Retirement? Not a chance1:28:48 – Why waiting for the “perfect moment” is a trap1:33:52 – How to connect with Kirk💡

Thanks for tuning in for this episode of the Rhymes with Odd podcast. Make sure to subscribe to catch future interviews. Follow on TikTok: @rhymeswithoddFollow on Instagram: @rhymeswithodd#RhymeswithOdd #BusinessPodcast

In this episode of the Rhymes with Odd podcast, Ryan, Tanner, and Cory dive deep into the journey and growth of the Farm for Profit podcast, sharing insights from their nearly six-year run. They discuss the challenges of staying authentic and entertaining in podcasting, the importance of consistency to build a loyal audience, and how their content evolved from dry lectures to engaging storytelling by playing off each other’s personalities. The conversation also explores the scale of their operation, producing two shows a week with a growing team, and their strategic moves like acquiring and renovating a former gas station into a dream podcast studio. They candidly share lessons learned about sponsorships, marketing, and navigating social media challenges—such as dealing with TikTok bans. The hosts emphasize the power of building genuine relationships, experimenting with content formats, and embracing new platforms like video to grow their audience. Throughout, they encourage aspiring podcasters to start now, be authentic, and stay consistent to find their unique voice and success.Timestamps: (00:00–00:35) Podcast longevity and authenticity: The hosts reflect on how the show unexpectedly lasted over six years with two episodes per week, emphasizing the importance of being yourself and consistent in podcasting.(00:52–01:09) Introduction of guests Tanner and Cory from Farm4Profit podcast, discussing podcasting as a full-time profession and the challenges involved.(06:16–09:00) Early podcast feedback: Tanner joined and suggested making the content more entertaining instead of dry lectures, leading to audience growth and evolving the podcast’s style.(09:00–12:00) Scale of Farm4Profit: They now produce two weekly shows with video on Spotify and other platforms, highlighting the complexity and workload behind the scenes.(14:46–17:50) Audience growth and podcast survival stats: The podcast steadily grew, exploded after Corey joined, and they discuss how most podcasts fail after a few episodes, stressing persistence.(20:32–23:22) Marketing and repurposing content: They discuss turning podcast transcripts into blog posts and the importance of balancing unique content with what listeners want.(26:07–28:45) Building relationships and guest network: After years of podcasting, they have strong industry connections and repeat guests, helping to sustain the show and community.(29:05–37:23) Buying and renovating a studio: They purchased and converted an old Casey’s gas station into a professional podcast studio, which required months of planning and unexpected challenges.(43:11–49:14) Business growth and partnerships: They talk about adjusting their business strategy to handle overhead costs, partnering with industry groups, and managing advertising and sponsorships.(52:02–57:54) Challenges with social media platforms: They share a story of their TikTok account being banned and discuss negativity toward successful entrepreneurs who take different paths.(1:00:51–1:03:59) Team growth and delegation: They reflect on learning to delegate tasks like editing to improve efficiency and focus on their strengths.(1:06:55–1:09:50) Social media strategy: Followers are vanity metrics; good content will perform well regardless. Emphasize authenticity over follower count.(1:34:17–1:46:00) Advice for new podcasters: Despite competition, they encourage starting a podcast anyway and stress the importance of consistency, being authentic, and embracing video earlier.(1:48:53) Closing call to action: Encourages listeners to subscribe and follow on social media to support the podcast.Thanks for tuning in for this episode of the Rhymes with Odd podcast. Make sure to subscribe to catch future interviews. Follow on TikTok: @rhymeswithoddFollow on Instagram: @rhymeswithodd#RhymeswithOdd #BusinessPodcast

In this episode of the Rhymes With Odd podcast, host Ryan Snaadt sits down with Ryan and Megan, the third-generation owners of P&M Apparel, a thriving screen printing business based in Polk City, Iowa.

What started in their grandparents' basement has grown into a full-scale apparel operation serving both local and national customers. From humble beginnings and family legacy to digital transformation and e-commerce innovation, this episode is packed with insights on running a modern family business.

🧵 Topics Covered:[00:00] The origin story: from a basement in Webster City to a storefront[02:00] Legacy and lineage: how WWII vet Melvin and wife Phyllis started it all[06:00] Megan’s journey from childcare to graphic design to full-time at P&M[10:00] Family expectations vs. freedom in generational businesses[14:00] Digital transformation: going paperless and streamlining operations[20:00] Strategic relocation to Polk City and the benefits of visibility[25:00] Competing with Amazon: How P&M keeps up in a prime-speed world[29:00] Fundraising and online stores: 1/3 of the business now e-commerce[34:00] Communication and trust as co-owners (and siblings!)[37:00] Blending family life and business with humor and practicality[43:00] Fun lightning round: gas tank trivia, Star Wars trilogies, and more[52:00] Thoughts on Custom Ink, industry evolution, and shop culture[58:00] Representation in the screen printing space: diversity & women in print[1:01:00] Building community: the vision for retreats and peer groups

💡 Key Takeaways:Family businesses can thrive with clear communication and modern tech adoptionCompeting with big players means offering speed and serviceA local shop can still scale by rethinking what “local” meansEvents and networking can often be more valuable after hours than in-sessionRepresentation and innovation matter—even in seemingly “old school” industriesFollow on TikTok: @rhymeswithoddFollow on Instagram: @rhymeswithodd#RhymeswithOdd #BusinessPodcast

In this episode of Rhymes With Odd, we sit down with Adam Geneser, the founder and CEO of Power Life Yoga—a wellness empire with over 17 locations across the midwest, 450 employees, and 100,000+ monthly members.

But his story is about way more than business.Adam shares the raw and emotional journey behind building Power Life, including the loss of his niece that shaped his mission, why he left private equity to pursue purpose, and the lessons he’s learned while balancing family, fatherhood, and leadership.

🔑 Summary Points:(00:00) Total Commitment from Day OneAdam invested his entire life savings into Power Life Yoga. He described it as a "five-year decision" — something that wouldn't show returns immediately but required long-term belief.(01:11) From Finance to YogaA former private equity professional, Adam shifted from a finance career in Colorado to building a yoga studio chain in Des Moines, Iowa — now boasting 17+ locations and nearly 450 employees.(18:54) Personal Tragedy Sparked ChangeA life-altering moment came when his niece tragically passed away, prompting a reevaluation of life and inspiring him to return to Iowa and build something more purpose-driven.(25:01) Core Values & Company CulturePower Life was built on values like treating people with respect and integrity — not just as business assets. His wife naturally embodied these values, which helped shape the company's culture.(34:30) Leadership & Letting GoAdam discussed the difficulty of stepping back from areas like finance and operations — his strong suits — and trusting others, battling decision fatigue and burnout in the process.(46:55) Humble BeginningsThe first teacher trainings were run out of their living room with a handful of instructors. Those early teachers remain some of the company’s longest-tenured employees today.(56:01) Metrics-Driven GrowthAdam developed metrics organically as the business grew, using data to shape decisions — but also valued the balance between numbers and human insight.(1:11:43) Strategic Expansion During COVIDHe negotiated better lease rates during the pandemic, capitalizing on a down market to expand strategically without overextending.(1:18:14) Target Market StrategyFuture growth is focused on a triangle of cities (Arkansas, Oklahoma, Missouri) all within driving distance from Kansas City, enabling support and shared resources.(1:32:12) Entrepreneurial RealitiesAdam reflects on how entrepreneurship demands wearing every hat, scaling gradually, and eventually building the right team to delegate effectively.Thanks for tuning in for this episode of the Rhymes with Odd podcast. Make sure to subscribe to catch future interviews. Follow on TikTok: @rhymeswithoddFollow on Instagram: @rhymeswithodd#RhymeswithOdd #BusinessPodcast

What does it take to run across the entire United States—150 marathons back-to-back? In this episode of The Rhymes with Odd Podcast, host Ryan Snaadt sits down with endurance athlete and child safety advocate Ben Tracy. Ben shares his incredible journey of running across America, the purpose behind his mission, and the lessons he’s learned from speaking to thousands of students and parents about the dangers of social media and online safety.

From surviving 125 grueling days on the road to the challenges of social media addiction and online predators, this episode is packed with inspiration, hard-hitting truths, and actionable insights.

Hit LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and turn on NOTIFICATIONS for more deep-dive interviews!

🔗 Connect with Ben Tracy
👉 Website: safeocialnetwork.com
👉 Watch Ben’s Documentary (Coming Soon!)

📌 Episode Timestamps:

00:00 – The Start of an Incredible Journey

• Ben Tracy begins his run at Mir Beach, San Francisco, and finishes in Ocean City, Maryland

• Covering 120 marathons over 125 days, with only 5 rest days

• Speaking at schools along the way to raise awareness about child online safety

01:10 – Why Run Across America?

• Ben’s mission to educate children and parents on digital safety

• The dangers of social media, cyberbullying, and online predators

05:45 – The Casey’s Pizza Challenge 🍕

• Eating a slice of Casey’s pizza at every stop across the country

• The role of food in fueling extreme endurance

11:56 – The Power of a Digital Footprint

• A look at how a single social media post can change your life

• The importance of teaching kids about responsible online behavior

17:19 – The Dark Side of Social Media

• The rise of cyberbullying and mental health struggles among teens

• Shocking statistics on depression and anxiety linked to excessive social media use

25:31 – The Logistics of Running Across the U.S.

• Planning the route, gathering a support crew, and securing sponsorships

• Why he chose to run west to east to overcome the hardest challenges first

31:00 – The Emotional Highs & Lows

• The excitement at the start and finish vs. the lonely middle weeks

• How betting against him kept him motivated

39:24 – Shocking Stories from Schools

• The tragic impact of online predators on teens

• The shocking 2-hour window between a first message and suicide in one case

53:39 – How to Combat Social Media Addiction

• The 8-hour screen time trap and how to break free

• Practical tips for setting screen time limits

59:09 – Parenting in the Digital Age

• How parents unknowingly put their kids at risk online

• Why kids don’t tell their parents about online dangers

1:17:44 – The Rise of the Anti-Social Media Movement

• Why more young people are choosing to step away from digital addiction

• The growing trend of offline living

1:26:06 – Final Thoughts & Takeaways

• The biggest lessons from running across the country

• Why we’re all capable of more than we think

1:34:19 – Where to Find Ben & His Work

• Website: safeocialnetwork.com

• Upcoming documentary & speaking engagements

💬 What was your biggest takeaway from Ben’s journey? Let us know in the comments!

📢 Subscribe for more interviews that challenge, inspire, and educate!

In this episode of The Rhymes with Odd Podcast, host Ryan Snaadt sits down with Beth Shelton, the CEO of Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa. Beth shares her incredible journey from financial struggles and personal hardships to becoming a respected leader and keynote speaker. She opens up about hitting rock bottom, rediscovering her purpose, and the power of vulnerability in leadership and personal growth.

🔥 Topics Covered:

• The struggles of balancing career and family in her early 30s

• Her journey to becoming the CEO of Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa

• The importance of resilience, self-discovery, and leadership

• Overcoming personal hardships, including sobriety and mental health battles

• Finding fulfillment beyond traditional success markers

👉 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring interviews!

📌 Timestamps:
00:00 – Beth’s financial struggles and wake-up call in her early 30s
01:04 – Introduction to Beth Shelton & her role as CEO of Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa
07:58 – Growing up without a right hand & overcoming physical challenges
13:03 – The danger of tying self-worth to professional success
18:00 – Life at 30: Feeling stuck and hitting rock bottom
20:34 – The turning point: Embracing vulnerability & human connection
25:55 – Learning independence and self-sufficiency after personal hardships
28:48 – Building a strong personal and professional brand through authenticity
34:03 – Leadership lessons: Creating a workplace where people show up as their full selves
39:12 – The impact of 2020: Navigating life’s toughest season
42:11 – The challenges of alcohol use & the journey to sobriety
47:25 – Redefining success: Moving beyond titles and achievements
52:37 – Public speaking experiences & imposter syndrome
57:42 – Health, wellness, and the power of intermittent fasting
1:04:54 – The shift in mindset from chasing opportunities to letting life unfold
1:12:46 – The power of authentic human connection
1:20:06 – The moment Beth let go of worrying about public perception
1:25:14 – How deep connections and self-love change everything
1:30:24 – Final reflections on embracing change and making hard choices