Small Business, Big Dreams

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In this episode of Small Business Big Dreams, I sit down with Dan Kjeldbjerg, President of Poul’s Landscaping & Nursery, and Jennifer, the company’s Director of Marketing, to explore the story behind one of the Midwest’s most respected names in landscaping. Founded in 1966 by Danish immigrant Paul (Poul) Kjeldbjerg, this family business has blossomed from a single-truck operation into a multi-acre, multi-generational powerhouse offering full-service landscape design, installation, and nursery production throughout Chicagoland and beyond.

Dan shares how he and his brother Alan helped evolve the company after joining in the 1980s and ’90s, using their backgrounds in marketing and horticulture to bring new life into the business their father started from humble beginnings. Jennifer gives insight into how the brand continues to modernize while staying rooted in its legacy—through strong storytelling, authentic community connections, and showcasing the beauty of their work in ways that resonate with new generations of homeowners and professionals alike.

We talk about how Poul’s Landscaping has expanded its footprint—from planting the first trees at their Long Grove property in the ’80s to operating a 112-acre wholesale nursery in Wadsworth—all while maintaining a reputation for excellence, craftsmanship, and personal service. From residential landscapes to large-scale nursery operations, Dan and Jennifer explain how the company continues to thrive through thoughtful leadership, passion for the craft, and a commitment to nurturing not just plants, but people and partnerships.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ How Poul’s Landscaping started with a single pickup and a dream
 ✅ The evolution of a family-run business into a regional leader in landscaping and nursery operations
 ✅ How Dan and Jennifer balance legacy with innovation and growth
 ✅ The importance of storytelling, branding, and relationship-building in a traditional industry
 ✅ Insights into running multi-acre operations, seasonal cycles, and team management
 ✅ What it takes to thrive in the green industry for over five decades

Why Poul’s Landscaping & Nursery Stands Out:

With deep family roots and a relentless commitment to quality, Poul’s Landscaping & Nursery has become synonymous with professionalism, reliability, and nature-inspired design. Their ability to combine generational experience with modern strategy—from operations to marketing—makes them a standout example of how traditional businesses can grow with purpose while staying true to their core values.

Perfect For:

🌿 Landscaping pros, designers, and home improvement enthusiasts
 📈 Family business owners navigating growth and legacy
 💡 Entrepreneurs interested in blending tradition with innovation
 🌱 Green industry professionals & plant lovers
 🎙️ Anyone inspired by stories of perseverance, evolution, and leadership

Connect with Poul’s Landscaping & Nursery:

📍 Offices in Long Grove, IL and nursery in Wadsworth, IL
 🌐 Website: https://pouls.com/
 📲 Instagram: @Pouls_Landscaping
 🪴 Serving Chicagoland with expert landscaping and nursery services since 1966

🎧 Listen now to hear how Dan and Jennifer are helping Poul’s Landscaping grow stronger than ever—planting the seeds of legacy while leading with vision, family, and heart.

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In this fiery and flavorful episode of Small Business Big Dreams, I sit down with Daniel, the bold and passionate creator behind Park Avenue Hot Sauces—a brand that’s lighting up taste buds and redefining what it means to bottle flavor with heart. From the very first batch made in a home kitchen to selling out at markets and being featured on shelves, Daniel shares his journey of turning a passion project into a growing business rooted in community, creativity, and spice.

We dive into how Park Avenue Hot Sauces was born, starting with Daniel’s love for cooking and experimenting with bold, vibrant ingredients. What began as a quest to create the perfect balance of heat and flavor quickly turned into a full-blown venture—fueled by feedback from friends, a growing fanbase, and a vision to bring gourmet hot sauces to homes everywhere. Whether it’s his signature sweet-heat combinations or small-batch seasonal releases, every bottle tells a story—and Daniel’s is just heating up.

From the hustle of farmers markets and pop-ups to navigating product development, labeling, and scaling up, Daniel gets real about what it takes to grow a handcrafted food brand from scratch. We talk about the power of community support, the challenges of breaking into the food space, and why staying true to your flavor—and your roots—is the secret ingredient to success.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ The origin story of Park Avenue Hot Sauces and how it went from kitchen to shelf
 ✅ Why flavor balance and small-batch integrity are at the heart of the brand
 ✅ How Daniel built a loyal following through markets, tastings, and word of mouth
 ✅ What it takes to grow a craft food business in today’s competitive landscape
 ✅ Lessons in product development, brand storytelling, and building trust through taste
 ✅ How passion, persistence, and peppers can spark an unforgettable business journey

Why Park Avenue Hot Sauces Stands Out:

Park Avenue Hot Sauces isn’t just about bringing the heat—it’s about bringing bold flavor, handcrafted quality, and a touch of personality to every meal. With unique blends that go beyond basic spice, Daniel’s sauces enhance rather than overpower, turning any dish into something crave-worthy. His commitment to quality, consistency, and customer connection makes Park Avenue a standout in the small-batch sauce world.

Perfect For:

🌶️ Hot sauce lovers and adventurous eaters
 🧑‍🍳 Foodies looking for the next big thing in flavor
 📈 Entrepreneurs in the food or CPG (consumer packaged goods) space
 💡 Creatives and makers turning side hustles into real businesses
 🎙️ Anyone inspired by grit, growth, and gourmet goodness

Connect with Park Avenue Hot Sauces:

🌶️ Shop the line: https://parkavehotsauces.square.site/
 📲 Instagram: @parkavehotsauces
 📍 Find them at local markets, events & select stores

🎧 Listen now and hear how Daniel is bottling passion, purpose, and heat—with every drop crafted to elevate your meals and your mindset.

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In this inspiring episode of Small Business Big Dreams, I sit down with Michelle, a powerhouse entrepreneur and the heart behind not just one—but two thriving local businesses in the heart of Downtown Wauconda. As the proud owner of both a full-service salon and boutique, as well as the modern, elegant fashion destination SophEve on Main, Michelle has built more than businesses—she’s cultivated experiences rooted in confidence, connection, and community.

We dive into Michelle’s entrepreneurial journey, from opening the salon and boutique back in 2013 with the mission of helping every guest feel beautiful inside and out, to launching SophEve on Main, a stylish and sophisticated fashion boutique inspired by her daughters, Sophie and Eva. Each business has its own unique vibe, but they both reflect Michelle’s passion for empowering others through personal expression, style, and self-care.

At the salon, guests are treated to more than hair services—they’re given an experience that lifts them up. Whether it's a fresh cut, color, or browsing the boutique filled with fun and unique gifts, Michelle and her team make every visit one to remember. And just steps away at SophEve on Main, shoppers discover a curated collection of upscale fashion that blends timeless sophistication with youthful charm, reflecting individuality beyond the trends.

We talk about what it’s like to balance two businesses, stay ahead of fashion and beauty trends, and grow in sync with a supportive small-town community. Michelle shares what drives her as a business owner, mom, and creative, and how she uses both of her spaces to foster confidence, spark joy, and bring people together.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ How Michelle turned her passion for people and style into two successful businesses
 ✅ The story behind SophEve on Main, inspired by family and fueled by fashion
✅ Why the salon is more than just hair—it’s a place for transformation and self-love
✅ How retail and service can complement each other to create a holistic customer experience
✅ The importance of community collaboration and connection in business growth
✅ Advice for entrepreneurs looking to grow while staying grounded in purpose

Why These Businesses Stand Out:

Michelle has built two brands that are rooted in heart and elevated by style. Her salon and boutique provide a welcoming space for beauty and discovery, while SophEve on Main delivers high-end, wearable fashion with a personal touch. At both locations, guests don’t just come to shop or get styled—they come to feel seen, celebrated, and part of something meaningful.

Perfect For:

💇‍♀️ Beauty lovers and boutique shoppers
 👗 Fashion-forward women looking for timeless, curated style
 📍 Supporters of community-based, women-owned businesses
 💡 Entrepreneurs seeking inspiration for managing multiple brands
 🎙️ Anyone who believes small towns can have big style and even bigger dreams

Connect with Michelle's Brands:

📍 Located in Downtown Wauconda
 🌐 Website: https://www.sopheve.com/    https://bevelsalon.com/
 📲 Instagram: @bevelsalon201  @sopheve.on.main
 💛 Stop in to be styled, uplifted, and inspired—by two spaces with one incredible vision

🎧 Listen now to hear how Michelle is styling confidence, curating joy, and building a beautiful legacy—one guest, one outfit, and one bold business move at a time.

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In this episode of Small Business Big Dreams, I sit down with Amanda and Chelsea, the inspiring duo behind The Stubborn Sunflower—a small business rooted in creativity, service, and community. These two passionate moms turned their love for crafting and connection into a mission-driven brand that celebrates life’s most meaningful moments through handcrafted, heartfelt gifts. From custom home décor to personalized keepsakes, every piece from The Stubborn Sunflower is infused with the same care and dedication they give their own families.

Amanda, a proud U.S. Army veteran, and Chelsea, a former paramedic and fire department admin, bring a deep sense of purpose and service to everything they create. Their shared background in public service has shaped not just their work ethic, but also their deep commitment to giving back and supporting others—especially fellow moms, military families, and those navigating life’s challenges. What started as a creative outlet quickly evolved into a powerful platform to connect with their community, spread kindness, and build something beautiful together.

In this conversation, we talk about their journey from military and emergency service careers to creative entrepreneurship, the meaning behind The Stubborn Sunflower name, and how they balance business, motherhood, and purpose. They open up about the joys and realities of running a small handmade business, what it means to craft with heart, and how even the smallest gift can spark big impact.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ How Amanda and Chelsea turned their passion for crafting into a full-time business
 ✅ Why their backgrounds in service inspired their commitment to community
 ✅ The story behind The Stubborn Sunflower name and what it represents
 ✅ How they create meaningful, personalized products that celebrate life’s special moments
 ✅ What it takes to grow a purpose-led business while raising kids and honoring your values
 ✅ How connection, creativity, and heart are at the center of their brand

Why The Stubborn Sunflower Stands Out:

The Stubborn Sunflower isn’t just about beautiful products—it’s about people, purpose, and personal touch. Every custom sign, gift, or keepsake they make tells a story, honors a moment, or celebrates someone’s strength. Amanda and Chelsea’s journey proves that when you lead with heart, lean into service, and stay rooted in creativity, your business can bloom in the most beautiful ways.

Perfect For:

🌻 Moms and makers building something meaningful
 🎁 Shoppers looking for personalized, handcrafted gifts
 🇺🇸 Veterans, first responders, and supporters of service-driven small businesses
 💡 Entrepreneurs who believe in doing business with heart
 🎙️ Anyone who loves stories of resilience, creativity, and connection

Connect with The Stubborn Sunflower:

📍 Based in Antioch, Illinois
 🌐 Website: https://thestubbornsunflower.com/
 📲 Instagram: @thestubbornsunflower
 🛍️ Shop their handcrafted gifts and custom décor made with love and purpose

🎧 Listen now to hear how Amanda and Chelsea are growing a business that’s as meaningful as it is beautiful—handcrafted treasures from the heart, built on service, sisterhood, and sunflowers. 🌻

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In this episode of Small Business Big Dreams, I sit down with Mike Bender, one of the founding partners of 41 North Contractors, a fast-growing general contracting company that’s redefining how commercial construction gets done. With operations in both Chicago, Illinois, and Scottsdale, Arizona, 41 North Contractors specializes in retail, restaurant, and commercial development, combining innovation with integrity to deliver results that speak for themselves.

Mike walks us through the journey of launching 41 North—how a small team with big ideas came together to challenge the status quo of large-scale construction firms. Built on the core values of pride, ability, and honesty, the company was founded with one clear mission: to provide high-quality, efficient, and transparent contracting services while creating lasting relationships with clients, vendors, and tradespeople. From their deep knowledge of local building codes to their passion for streamlining the construction process, 41 North is proving that smaller, agile teams can deliver big results.

We talk about the power of innovation in construction, the importance of clear communication, and what it takes to manage fast-paced commercial projects across multiple markets. Mike also shares insights into leading a growing team, building a culture rooted in trust, and how 41 North keeps clients informed and involved throughout every step of the project—without all the red tape and delays often associated with big-box contractors.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ How 41 North Contractors was founded and what sets them apart in the construction world
 ✅ Why pride, ability, and honesty are more than just buzzwords—they’re the foundation for long-term success
 ✅ What it takes to manage multi-market projects in Chicago and Scottsdale
 ✅ How 41 North is disrupting the traditional general contracting model
 ✅ Tips for business owners hiring a general contractor for retail or restaurant buildouts
 ✅ The importance of local knowledge, agile teams, and hands-on leadership in construction

Why 41 North Contractors Stands Out:

41 North Contractors isn’t your average construction company—they’re lean, innovative, and relationship-focused. Specializing in commercial buildouts for restaurants, retail spaces, and office developments, the team delivers exceptional results through a process rooted in clarity, collaboration, and confidence. With Mike and his partners at the helm, 41 North continues to bring more value and efficiency to every client, while staying true to the values that started it all.

Perfect For:

🏗️ Commercial property owners looking for a trusted general contractor
 🍽️ Restaurateurs and retailers planning a new location or remodel
 📈 Entrepreneurs and real estate developers seeking efficient project delivery
 🛠️ Construction pros who want to break away from the “old way” of doing things
 💡 Anyone curious about innovation, leadership, and modern general contracting

Connect with 41 North Contractors:

📍 Serving Chicago, IL & Scottsdale, AZ
 🌐 Website: https://www.41northcontractors.com/
 📲 Instagram: @41northcontractors
 📞 Contact for consultations and commercial project estimates

🎧 Listen now to hear how Mike Bender and the 41 North team are building smarter, faster, and better—all while staying true to the values that matter most in business and construction.

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In this episode of Small Business Big Dreams, I sit down with Nick, the passionate owner of Andy’s Records, a beloved vinyl record store that’s breathing life into the music scene and keeping the soul of analog alive in the digital age. Nestled in the heart of the community, Andy’s Records is more than just a shop—it’s a sanctuary for music lovers, a space to connect over sound, nostalgia, and the pure joy of flipping through records.

Nick shares the story of how Andy’s Records came to be, the inspiration behind opening a brick-and-mortar record store, and what it's like running a business built on the timeless love for vinyl. We dive into the resurgence of physical media, how younger generations are discovering the magic of records, and what makes Andy’s stand out in a world of streaming and digital playlists. From curating the perfect in-store vibe to sourcing rare pressings and creating a welcoming space for all kinds of collectors, Nick offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to build and sustain a music-centric small business.

We also explore how Andy’s Records has become a local cultural hub—hosting in-store events, collaborating with artists, and fostering a sense of community that extends beyond music. For Nick, it’s not just about selling vinyl—it’s about preserving a music experience that’s tangible, intentional, and deeply human.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

✅ The origin story of Andy’s Records and how Nick turned a passion into a thriving vinyl shop
 ✅ Why vinyl is making a comeback and how the store attracts both longtime collectors and new fans
 ✅ The art of curating records, from indie gems to classic reissues and limited pressings
 ✅ How Andy’s Records creates an inviting space that’s about more than just shopping
 ✅ The challenges and wins of running a niche small business in a digital age
 ✅ Nick’s love for music, community, and the shared joy of discovering a new favorite album

Why Andy’s Records Stands Out:

Andy’s Records isn’t your average music store—it’s a carefully curated, soulful space where vinyl takes center stage. With bins full of classics, indie finds, rare gems, and staff who truly know their stuff, it’s the kind of place where you go in for one record and leave with five (and maybe a story or two). Whether you’re a diehard audiophile or someone just starting to explore vinyl, Andy’s makes the experience personal, nostalgic, and exciting.

Perfect For:

🎧 Vinyl collectors and music lovers of all kinds
 📀 First-time record buyers curious about the world of analog
 📈 Small business owners and creatives looking to blend passion with entrepreneurship
 🎶 Artists, DJs, and fans of music culture
 ❤️ Anyone who believes that music should be felt—not just streamed

Connect with Andy’s Records:

📍 Visit the store: 16 N Whitney St, Grayslake, IL 60030
 🌐 Website: https://andysrecords.shop/
 📲 Instagram: @Andys.Records
 🎵 Discover your next favorite album—in real life

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In this episode of Small Business Big Dreams, we’re stepping into the whimsical world of children’s party planning with Tanya and Chuck, the passionate duo behind Kiddiewinks Events. Located in Barrington, Illinois, Kiddiewinks Events is a boutique, all-inclusive children's party venue that specializes in creating unforgettable, stress-free celebrations for kids ages 4–12. With themed parties that include everything from dress-up and makeup to pizza, cupcakes, and temporary tattoos, Kiddiewinks takes care of every single detail so that kids can play—and parents can actually relax and enjoy the day.

In this fun, heartfelt, and insightful conversation, Tanya and Chuck share how they built Kiddiewinks Events from the ground up. They talk about the inspiration behind their one-of-a-kind party concept, how they curate each experience to keep kids engaged, entertained, and smiling, and how they’ve structured the business to make party planning effortless for families. Whether it’s a princess makeover, a superhero bash, or a custom-themed celebration, Kiddiewinks offers a 2-hour, full-service experience filled with creativity, organization, and joy.

We discuss how Kiddiewinks has become a go-to destination for birthday parties, special events, and milestone celebrations, thanks to their attention to detail, kid-approved activities, and parent-approved convenience. Tanya and Chuck also share their experience as entrepreneurs, the lessons they’ve learned along the way, and how they’ve stayed inspired and innovative in an industry that’s all about bringing joy and magic to childhood.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ How Tanya and Chuck started Kiddiewinks Events and created a unique niche in children’s parties
 ✅ The importance of structure, creativity, and customization in kids’ event planning
 ✅ What’s included in a Kiddiewinks party (spoiler: it’s everything you need!)
 ✅ The logistics and behind-the-scenes work that go into running a boutique party venue
 ✅ Tips for creating a seamless, stress-free celebration for your child
 ✅ How Kiddiewinks Events has grown through word-of-mouth, community love, and exceptional service

Why Kiddiewinks Events Stands Out:

Kiddiewinks Events isn’t just another party venue—it’s an immersive celebration experience. With thoughtfully designed packages that include themed décor, pizza, cupcakes, candles, drinks, activities, and more, every detail is handled so parents don’t have to lift a finger. Their engaging staff, fun environment, and creative themes make Kiddiewinks the perfect place for children’s birthday parties, and their loyal customers (many of whom return year after year) say it best: Kiddiewinks makes parties magical.

Perfect For:

🎉 Parents planning a birthday party or celebration for kids aged 4–12
 🎈 Party planners and creatives looking for inspiration and structure
 📈 Aspiring entrepreneurs in the events or kids entertainment space
 ❤️ Small business supporters who love hearing about family-owned, local success stories

Connect with Kiddiewinks Events:

📍 Located in Barrington, IL
 🌐 Website: https://www.kiddiewinks.events/
 📲 Instagram: @kiddiewinks.events
 🎉 Book your next magical party with them—stress-free, start to finish!

🔊 Listen Now and discover how Tanya and Chuck are bringing joy, creativity, and community to the world of children’s events—one amazing party at a time.

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In this episode of Small Business Big Dreams, we sit down with Andy from Perfect Brewing Supply, the go-to destination for homebrewing, winemaking, and fermentation enthusiasts. What started as a small warehouse operation has evolved into a full-fledged storefront in Libertyville, offering not just ingredients and equipment but also expert knowledge and hands-on support for anyone passionate about brewing.

Andy shares the fascinating journey of Perfect Brewing Supply, from its early days of mail-order homebrew supplies to becoming a hub for fermentation creativity, helping customers brew their own beer, wine, cider, cheese, soda, and even coffee. Whether you’re a beginner looking to brew your first batch or a seasoned brewer dreaming of opening your own brewery, this episode is packed with insights on equipment, techniques, and how Perfect Brewing Supply helps homebrewers succeed.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ How Perfect Brewing Supply Started – From a warehouse to a thriving storefront & community hub.
✅ The Evolution of Homebrewing – How brewing equipment and resources have changed over the years.
✅ Beyond Beer: Exploring Other Fermentation Crafts – Wine, cider, cheese, coffee, and more!
✅ The Future Brewer Pipeline – How former employees and customers have gone on to open their own breweries.
✅ Expert Tips for Homebrewers – Advice from Andy and his team, including insights from the Siebel Institute.
✅ The Power of Community in Brewing – How connecting with other homebrewers can help you perfect your craft.

Why Perfect Brewing Supply Stands Out:

At Perfect Brewing Supply, it’s more than just selling ingredients and equipment – it’s about building a community of passionate homebrewers. With rental equipment, a temperature-controlled fermentation space, and expert guidance from professionals, they make homebrewing more accessible and exciting than ever.

Who Should Listen?

🍺 Homebrewers looking for expert advice and high-quality ingredients.
🍷 Wine & cider makers wanting to expand their fermentation skills.
🧀 DIY food lovers interested in making their own cheese, soda, or coffee.
🎙️ Aspiring entrepreneurs thinking about starting a brewing business.
👨‍🔬 Fermentation enthusiasts eager to learn from professionals trained at the Siebel Institute.

Connect with Perfect Brewing Supply:

📍 Visit the Store: Libertyville, IL
🌐 Website: https://perfectbrewsupply.com/
📲 Follow on Instagram: @Perfect_brewsupply
🍺 Shop for Brewing Supplies , Equipment and Events Today!

🔊 Listen Now! If you’re passionate about brewing, fermentation, and turning your hobby into a business, this episode with Andy from Perfect Brewing Supply is for you. Hit play and get ready to brew up some knowledge!

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In this episode of Small Business Big Dreams, we sit down with Kris, the entrepreneur behind My Mighty Meals, a meal prep company that’s revolutionizing the way people eat. Focused on healthy, convenient, and delicious meals, My Mighty Meals is changing the game for busy professionals, athletes, and families who want nutritious food without the hassle.

Kris shares the inspiration behind My Mighty Meals, from identifying a gap in the market for fresh, pre-portioned, and balanced meals to turning a small kitchen operation into a thriving business. With a passion for health, fitness, and convenience, Kris walks us through the challenges of scaling a meal prep company, from sourcing high-quality ingredients to streamlining production and delivery.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ How My Mighty Meals Started – Kris’s journey from meal prepping for friends to building a full-scale business.
✅ The Power of Healthy Eating – Why balanced meals matter and how My Mighty Meals makes nutrition accessible.
✅ Challenges of the Meal Prep Industry – Logistics, operations, and what it takes to keep food fresh and flavorful.
✅ The Importance of Branding & Customer Loyalty – How Kris built a strong community around My Mighty Meals.
✅ Scaling a Meal Prep Business – From a small kitchen to a full production model with hundreds of meals per week.
✅ The Future of Meal Prep – How My Mighty Meals plans to expand and evolve in the ever-growing health food industry.

The My Mighty Meals Difference:

Unlike generic meal delivery services, My Mighty Meals focuses on high-quality, fresh, and perfectly portioned meals designed to fuel busy lifestyles. By offering a rotating menu of nutrient-dense options, Kris has created a sustainable, customer-friendly solution that fits seamlessly into people’s daily routines.

Who Should Listen?

🍽️ Health-conscious individuals looking for convenient and delicious meal options
🏋️‍♂️ Fitness enthusiasts & athletes who need high-protein, well-balanced meals
📈 Aspiring food entrepreneurs wanting to learn how to launch and scale a business
⏳ Busy professionals & parents who struggle with meal planning and prep
🎙️ Small business owners curious about the challenges of the food industry

Connect with My Mighty Meals:

📍 Visit the Website: https://mymightymeals.com/
📲 Follow on Instagram: @MyMightyMeals
🍱 Order Your First Meal Prep Box Today and get 20% off with Pod20!!

🔊 Tune in Now! If you’re ready to learn what it takes to turn a passion for health and food into a thriving business, don’t miss this episode featuring Kris from My Mighty Meals. Hit play and get inspired by this journey of entrepreneurship, perseverance, and success!

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In this episode of Small Business Big Dreams, we sit down with Justin Maki, the visionary founder of Ryse Athletic Club, a high-performance training facility that blends fitness, community, and innovation. Justin shares his entrepreneurial journey, from his early passion for athletics to the challenges of launching and scaling a fitness business in a competitive industry.

From Passion to Business: The Birth of Ryse Athletic Club

Justin’s story begins with his deep-rooted love for fitness and  performance. He discusses how his experience as a competitive body builder and trainer shaped his approach to building Ryse Athletic Club, not just as a gym, but as a community-driven space where people of all fitness levels can push their limits. His goal? To create an environment where members feel motivated, supported, and empowered to achieve their best selves.

Overcoming Challenges in the Fitness Industry

Launching Ryse Athletic Club wasn’t without hurdles. Justin opens up about the financial risks, business planning, and operational challenges that come with starting a fitness facility. From securing a location to investing in top-tier equipment and recruiting expert staff, every step required careful strategy and resilience. He also discusses how the fitness industry has evolved post-pandemic and the importance of adapting to new training methods and member expectations.

The Future of Ryse Athletic Club

As Ryse continues to grow, Justin has ambitious plans for the future. He discusses expansion strategies, potential new locations, and innovations in fitness technology that will further elevate the Ryse experience. His commitment to fostering a results-driven community remains at the core of his mission.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

For those looking to break into the fitness industry, Justin offers practical advice: stay passionate, build strong relationships, and embrace the grind. He emphasizes the importance of building a brand, staying adaptable, and always prioritizing the needs of your members.

This episode is packed with valuable insights for fitness enthusiasts, business owners, and anyone looking to turn their passion into a thriving enterprise.

Listen now to hear how Justin Maki built Ryse Athletic Club into a powerhouse of strength, performance, and community.

📢 Available on all major podcast platforms—tune in today!

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