Alright, buckle up for a wild ride into the world of military surplus and entrepreneurial grit! In this episode of "Show Me Yours," we sit down with the mastermind behind Venture Surplus, Jeffrey Radspinner, who proves that building a business is less about perfectly laid plans and more about surviving the glorious chaos.

From $12,000 fake tourniquet mishaps (ouch!) to the hard-won wisdom of delegating (and ditching that "lazy" guilt), Jeffrey spills the beans on the real-life rollercoaster of owning a small business. We dive deep into the story behind acquiring Glenn's Army Surplus, and how a seriously destructive mindset almost torpedoed the whole operation. Plus, we explore the surprising power of fleece-lined pants, and why Lord of the Rings soundtracks are the secret weapon for entrepreneurial hype.

Join us for tales of treasure hunts in surplus stores, the art of spotting a fake, and the ultimate transformation from a "doing everything" founder to a "letting go" leader. Get ready for laughs, lessons, and a serious dose of inspiration – because if Jeffrey can turn military surplus into a thriving empire, you can conquer just about anything!

Learn more about Venture Surplus - https://www.venturesurplus.com/

What if your workspace could tell the story of your business and inspire everyone who steps inside? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Robin Pasley of Pasley Commercial Interiors, where we explore how authentic design goes beyond aesthetics to embody a company's brand and culture. Robin shares her meticulous approach to crafting environments that resonate with both employees and clients, illustrating how the physical space can drive well-being and productivity. From personally repainting walls to achieve the perfect finish to listening beyond words to understand clients' unspoken desires, Robin's commitment to excellence shines through.

Discover the transformative power of facing fears and embracing change as Robin recounts a personal story from her past that shaped her business journey. We delve into her professional evolution spurred by influential literature, highlighting "Never Drop the Ball Again," a book that catalyzed her transition from a solopreneur to a business ready for expansion and collaboration. Through these insights, Robin emphasizes the importance of truly understanding client needs, aligning design strategies with future aspirations, and preparing for growth by recognizing and seizing opportunities.

Explore the art of uncovering a business's true identity as Robin and her husband help owners discover the rich narratives behind their brands. Learn how aligning a company's story with personal strengths and values fosters authenticity and success. Reflecting on her transition from residential to commercial design, Robin highlights the shift from purely aesthetic considerations to a holistic approach that integrates functionality, storytelling, and profitability. Gain valuable insights on common design pitfalls, such as undervaluing lighting and break spaces, and learn how thoughtful design can transform your workspace into a compelling narrative that attracts the right clientele and nurtures a thriving work environment.

Matt Stoneback, the creative force behind Eddie Sound and Rockbox, shares his unique journey from juggling a full-time job to becoming a pioneering figure in the entertainment industry of Colorado Springs. With a knack for clever branding, Matt reveals how he strategically differentiates his services for educational and upscale clients, inspired by a personal connection to the Sarah C. Eddie Music Building. His story is a testament to maintaining a strong brand identity while navigating the challenges of a dynamic industry.

Throughout our conversation, Matt imparts valuable lessons on business leadership and the nuances of the event production world. We explore the trials of balancing ambition with financial practicality, especially when dealing with unpredictable clients and late payments. Matt's insights into communication, decision-making, and maintaining high-energy teams offer a fascinating glimpse into the workings of a successful enterprise. His candid anecdotes emphasize the importance of fiscal responsibility and the delicate art of managing client relationships for long-term success.

The episode closes with a powerful discussion on the significance of reputation and securing financial stability in the business world. Matt shares strategic moves that helped him maintain client trust, even when faced with unexpected challenges. His lessons on leadership and ownership in tough situations provide a roadmap for professionals seeking to thrive in service-based industries. Whether you're an entrepreneur or someone intrigued by the world of event production, Matt's experiences and advice promise both inspiration and practical guidance.

Learn more about Eddy Sound - https://eddysound.com/

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Amber and Austin Richman, the visionary siblings behind Cambio Yoga, a donation-based yoga studio that is reshaping the concept of community wellness in Colorado Springs. From humble beginnings during a recession, Amber and Austin share their innovative journey of making yoga accessible to all while maintaining a strong focus on education and community building. Discover how their sibling partnership, marked by mutual learning and unwavering support, has been the cornerstone of their success.

Experience the heartwarming tales of unexpected generosity and the profound impact of yoga on personal growth, as Amber and Austin recount stories that have shaped their studio's journey. From federal raids to selfless acts of kindness, these anecdotes illustrate the powerful community spirit that surrounds Cambio Yoga. The Richmans reflect on their mantra of "You are enough," emphasizing self-acceptance, grace, and the joy that pets bring to their lives, all of which contribute to a thriving, inclusive environment.

Amber and Austin offer insightful reflections on leadership, highlighting the importance of mission alignment and the role of compassionate guidance in business growth. Hear about their challenges and triumphs in maintaining a healthy community focus, balancing the needs of diverse stakeholders, and redefining success as a leader. With a focus on fostering individual growth and embracing imperfections, Cambio Yoga stands as a testament to the power of leading with love and dedication to one's mission, fostering a community that enriches both its members and its leaders.

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Melissa Scruggs, CEO of Financial Talent Group, joins us to unpack the labyrinth of small business ownership. With her rich experience, Melissa walks us through her company's transition from a fully remote setup to a hybrid model. She shares candid reflections on the trials and triumphs of this shift, shedding light on the value of vulnerability and the indispensable role of a supportive network. From humorous anecdotes about launching a business with a $40 burner phone to the serious business of strategic growth, Melissa's journey is both a cautionary tale and an inspiring roadmap for fellow entrepreneurs.

As we explore the complexities of managing contractor relationships and fostering a cohesive brand identity, Melissa highlights the strategic decisions that propelled her company forward. The shift to a hybrid workforce wasn't just about logistics; it was about crafting a dedicated team that resonated with the company's values. We also dig into the nitty-gritty of staff turnover and the importance of viewing it as a catalyst for growth rather than a setback. Through stories of resilience and adaptability, Melissa emphasizes the importance of clear processes, continuous feedback, and a willingness to embrace change as part of the entrepreneurial journey.

Our conversation delves into the nuances of strategic financial planning and building a robust professional network. Melissa shares the lessons learned from financial missteps and the pivotal role of a trusted CPA firm in navigating these challenges. The episode wraps with a discussion on leveraging grant opportunities and setting the stage for sustainable growth. For anyone in the trenches of small business ownership, Melissa's insights offer a blend of humor, honesty, and practical advice that underscores the transformative power of perseverance and strategic foresight.

Get ready to be inspired by the remarkable Heather McBroom, a seasoned entrepreneur and executive director of Thrive Networks. Heather opens up about her 25-year journey in the business world, sharing invaluable lessons learned from navigating the complexities of employee management, trust, and leadership.

With a heartfelt dedication to empowering entrepreneurs, especially those from criminal justice backgrounds, Heather's transformative five-month program has already graduated over 250 community leaders in Southeast Colorado Springs. Her passion for personal and professional growth is palpable as she prepares to welcome 30 new entrepreneurs into this life-changing initiative.

We also delve into the dramatic side of entrepreneurship, where rushed hiring decisions can lead to costly pitfalls. Reflecting on Heather's extensive experience, we uncover the financial strains and potential legal battles that arise from hasty recruitment.

The episode offers a cautionary tale about the importance of legal protections like non-solicitation agreements and the wisdom in seeking good legal advice. Heather shares her journey of overcoming leadership challenges, finding the delicate balance between micromanagement and empowerment, and the crucial role of effective communication in building a thriving business.

Join us to gain insights into creating a solid foundation for business success, tailored for those eager to foster a dynamic and sustainable work environment.

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Imagine finding yourself in a precarious situation where your ambition nearly leads your business to the brink of collapse. Ian Horgan, founder and CVO (Chief Van Officer) of Wayfarer Vans, knows this feeling all too well. In the first episode of the Show Me Yours podcast, Ian shares his remarkable story of navigating the challenges of the conversion van industry during the COVID boom. We unpack the pressures of being a leader, the ceaseless demands of decision-making, and the humor in titles like CEO. Ian’s candid recounting of his journey offers a fresh perspective on the realities of entrepreneurship, shedding light on the often untold stories of failure and growth.

In a world where trust is both a currency and a risk, Ian delves into the intricacies of business relationships. He opens up about a personal story of misplaced trust that turned into betrayal—a trusted partner who became a competitor. This experience taught Ian crucial lessons about vigilance and due diligence, themes that resonate with anyone who has faced similar challenges. From the awkwardness of embarrassing moments to the serious impact of trust breaches, this episode explores how overcoming difficult situations shapes a resilient business mindset.

As Ian recounts the thrill and trials of expanding his business during the uncertain times of the pandemic, listeners get a front-row seat to the rollercoaster of entrepreneurship. With a new shop in Reno and unexpected supply chain setbacks, Ian learned the hard way about the risks of rapid expansion. However, these experiences also led to invaluable insights on optimizing operations for profitability. By focusing on efficiency and smart use of resources, Wayfarer Vans achieved its most profitable year, demonstrating the power of working smarter, not harder. Tune in to discover how Ian’s experiences can guide your own journey toward sustained business success.
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