The Createur Podcast

What happens when childhood dreams of entrepreneurship blend with transformative mentorship experiences? Join us as Jesse Erickson, a proud ONU alum and accomplished entrepreneur, uncovers the story behind Pathfinder, his full-service marketing agency. Jesse's tale is one of passion and purpose, fueled by his early exposure to business and a pivotal encounter at ONU that shaped his journey. Discover how Jesse's commitment to authenticity and strategic storytelling has guided him through the challenges of merging businesses and adapting to the dynamic marketing landscape.

Our exploration doesn't stop at the boardroom. Jesse shares his approach to navigating the unpredictable nature of entrepreneurship, where storytelling and strategic platform selection take precedence over fleeting trends. His candid reflections on balancing innovation with stability offer a blueprint for long-term success in the ever-evolving world of marketing. As we traverse these professional landscapes, Jesse's insights into risk-taking underscore the importance of calculated decisions in both business and life.

Beyond the business, Jesse opens up about his personal life, revealing how his role as a father to a son with a rare genetic disorder has influenced his entrepreneurial mindset. This episode illuminates the heart behind Pathfinder's community-driven mission in Kankakee County, emphasizing resilience and support for local businesses. And as a whimsical finale, Jesse envisions a mascot that embodies the adaptable, resilient spirit of entrepreneurship. Don't miss this episode filled with genuine storytelling and powerful lessons for aspiring business leaders.

To learn more about other entrepreneurship opportunities and the McGraw School of Business’s very own Createur Conference and Pitch Competition, go to Createur.Olivet.edu.

In this conversation, Kate Klavohn shares her extensive experience with Chick-fil-A, focusing on the company's approach to customer satisfaction and genuine hospitality. She discusses the 'Winning Hearts Every Day' strategy, which emphasizes creating a clean and safe environment, providing quality food, ensuring fast and accurate service, and delivering genuine hospitality. Kate also highlights the importance of developing confident leaders within the organization and adapting to customer feedback to improve service. Looking ahead, she expresses excitement about the future of hospitality and technology in the fast food industry, emphasizing Chick-fil-A's commitment to innovation and maintaining a personal touch in service.

To learn more about other entrepreneurship opportunities and the McGraw School of Business’s very own Createur Conference and Pitch Competition, go to Createur.Olivet.edu.

Curious about how a former aspiring law student became a CEO and turned a collaborative workspace into a thriving entrepreneurial hub? This week, Carly and I chat with Addison Newell, who has navigated an extraordinary journey from the corporate ladder to the dynamic world of entrepreneurship. Addison shares compelling stories of taking the reins at Refinery46 in Indianapolis, a place that buzzes with innovation and connectivity. He reveals how this unique workspace model fosters growth through diverse office options and co-working memberships, even in a post-COVID world where micro office spaces remain a hot commodity.

In our conversation, we explore how the idea of "work near home" is reshaping the traditional office landscape. These local, flexible workspaces have become game-changers for solopreneurs and small business owners looking for community and support without the commute. With Addison's background as a public school teacher, he brings a fresh perspective on building vibrant work environments. His insights on building a supportive ecosystem for entrepreneurs show how successful ventures can uplift an entire community, blending personal experiences with professional wisdom to inspire and empower.

Touching on failure, risk, and resilience, Addison shares valuable lessons from both the entrepreneurial and missionary fields. His stories about embracing challenges and making strategic choices — like selecting the perfect location for Refinery46 — highlight the importance of risk-taking and learning from setbacks. From brainstorming expansion ideas to considering food truck destinations, Addison’s bold decisions illuminate the path to growth and innovation. Join us for an inspiring discussion that champions taking action and seizing unforeseen opportunities in the entrepreneurial journey.

To learn more about other entrepreneurship opportunities and the McGraw School of Business’s very own Createur Conference and Pitch Competition, go to Createur.Olivet.edu.

Unlock the secret to combining faith and business with insights from Jared Fulks, managing partner at Pureflow. Learn how Jared's journey from coaching basketball in the UK to transforming the lives of boda boda drivers in Uganda reveals the power of innovative financing solutions. This episode promises to inspire as we explore Pureflow's unique model that integrates financial empowerment with spiritual growth, creating opportunities for motorcycle ownership that uplift communities and families alike.

Discover the art of scaling a business rooted in community engagement, where over 75% of new customers come from personal referrals. Jared shares the strategies behind creating exceptional customer experiences and building strong community ties, emphasizing the importance of slow, intentional growth. We delve into how Pureflow's practices, like in-home background checks, foster accountability while maintaining a God-honoring culture inspired by Christ's example, highlighting the value of foundational relationships over rapid expansion.

Navigate the complexities of operating a business in East Africa as we uncover both the challenges and possibilities of this emerging market. Jared offers valuable advice for aspiring global entrepreneurs, touching on government inconsistencies, tax compliance, and cultural differences. He shares a vision for high-speed trains that could revolutionize transportation. Tune in for a conversation filled with insights, passion, and actionable advice for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact in international business.

To learn more about other entrepreneurship opportunities and the McGraw School of Business’s very own Createur Conference and Pitch Competition, go to Createur.Olivet.edu.

Unlock the secrets to resilience and business success with Amber Billhauer, a force of nature in entrepreneurship and authorship. Discover how Amber transformed her challenging childhood experiences into powerful catalysts for her career, culminating in her Amazon number one bestseller, "Infinite Impact: Where Faith and Business Meet." Her story is a testament to the strength of self-determination and the impact of mentorship, as Amber passionately guides young minds toward their own paths of success.

Explore the profound intersection of technology and authenticity in creative industries. Amber shares her insights on maintaining personal authenticity amid the rise of AI, emphasizing the importance of preserving individual voices. Plus, learn about her "foundational four framework"—a unique method designed to help entrepreneurs and authors overcome visibility resistance and achieve alignment. The conversation sheds light on the vital role of self-expression and alignment in business triumphs.

Finally, delve into the power of teamwork in entrepreneurship. Amber discusses how building a supportive team can enhance productivity and drive growth. She shares personal stories about aligning team members with tasks that match their strengths, leading to greater impact and profitability. Get excited about Amber's vision for creating infinite impact through collaboration and personalized content, including plans for a derivative book series co-authored by certified guides.

To learn more about other entrepreneurship opportunities and the McGraw School of Business’s very own Createur Conference and Pitch Competition, go to Createur.Olivet.edu.

Ever wondered how curiosity and the power of storytelling can transform a career? Join us as Ty Lewis, a remarkable real estate investor and advocate for BIPOC academic success, shares his inspiring journey from a college graduate to owning multifamily units and developing single-family homes. Ty’s unique path highlights the importance of networking, mentorship, and strategic investments, including his impactful role with the African American Leadership Society at United Way Quad Cities. Through his story, we promise insights into how faith and proactive approaches can lead to a debt-free college education and open doors in the competitive world of real estate.

Listening is more than just a skill for Ty; it's a cornerstone of his leadership philosophy. Hear how Ty’s experiences, from volunteering to securing a full-ride scholarship, underscore the transformative effect of exposure to new opportunities. By setting aside ego and embracing genuine curiosity, Ty’s journey emphasizes the significance of building meaningful connections. We explore how these connections have helped him transition from nonprofit leadership to real estate and why young entrepreneurs should prioritize these practices to advance their careers.

But Ty’s wisdom doesn’t stop at career advice. Discover how intentional giving and the art of storytelling have shaped his leadership style and personal growth. Through personal anecdotes, Ty reveals the ripple effect of deliberate mentorship and financial support, inspiring others to lead with empathy and purpose. We wrap up with Ty’s thoughts on persistence in public speaking, real estate ventures, and the profound impact of community support. Tune in to be inspired by Ty’s journey and learn how you too can foster a fulfilling career through storytelling and strategic connections.

To learn more about other entrepreneurship opportunities and the McGraw School of Business’s very own Createur Conference and Pitch Competition, go to Createur.Olivet.edu.

Discover the inspiring journey of Remington Ramsey, the entrepreneurial force behind Real Producers Magazine, as he shares his story of perseverance and innovation with us. From selling Cutco Knives during the 2008 housing crisis to founding a magazine that connects top real estate professionals across 140 locations, Remington's path is a testament to resilience and adaptability. Throughout our conversation, he reveals how faith and business have intertwined to guide his success, offering valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to carve their own niche.

Immerse yourself in the transformational power of books and dreams as we discuss the shift from academic achievement to personal growth through avid reading and reflection. Remington aims to read 24 books a year, with titles like "Boys in the Boat" profoundly influencing his business and personal philosophies. As our discussion unfolds, we explore how evolving reading interests, particularly in American history, can provide unexpected lessons in leadership and resilience, encouraging listeners to continuously seek knowledge and inspiration.

Unearth the secrets of building strong relationships using effective sales techniques that prioritize genuine engagement. Remington shares his wisdom on maintaining connections and the importance of belief rooted in truth for young entrepreneurs. We touch on strategic partnerships, like his collaboration with N2 Publishing, which facilitated the national expansion of Real Producers Magazine. Join us for a captivating exploration of entrepreneurship, relationship-building, and the intersection of faith and business, leaving you with actionable insights and inspiration.

To learn more about other entrepreneurship opportunities and the McGraw School of Business’s very own Createur Conference and Pitch Competition, go to Createur.Olivet.edu.

What does it take to transform personal tragedy into entrepreneurial triumph? Join us as Anne Beiler, the remarkable founder of Auntie Anne's Hand-Rolled Soft Pretzels, shares her awe-inspiring journey from her Amish roots to becoming a faith-driven powerhouse in the business world. Anne's story is one of resilience and purpose, highlighting how her upbringing, centered on family and faith, laid a strong foundation for her business endeavors. Her heartfelt recounting of the loss of her daughter and the ensuing transformation into a mission-driven entrepreneur offers a poignant message on the power of purpose in overcoming life's challenges.

Anne sheds light on the often difficult path of entrepreneurship, where insecurity and criticism loom large. She emphasizes the importance of focusing on a meaningful product, supportive people, and a clear purpose. By embracing mentorship, Anne found the guidance and encouragement needed to navigate self-doubt and external negativity. Her experiences underscore the vital role mentors play in personal and professional development, offering insights on how they can be key to sustaining confidence and achieving success.

Leadership, communication, and faith are central themes as Anne discusses the art of building a business that's as authentic as it is successful. She reveals how clear communication and effective delegation are crucial in fostering a positive work environment, while faith and integrity guide her leadership style. Anne's reflections on humility and learning from mistakes offer valuable lessons for creating an inclusive and collaborative culture. Her insights remind us that authenticity and kindness can illuminate the path to a thriving business, impacting employees and customers alike.

To learn more about other entrepreneurship opportunities and the McGraw School of Business’s very own Createur Conference and Pitch Competition, go to Createur.Olivet.edu.

Madison Atkinson, a recent MBA graduate from Olivet Nazarene University, shares her inspiring journey of leadership within her family's business, FastSigns of Kankakee. Listen as she reveals the powerful principles instilled by her parents that have guided both her personal growth and the business's success. From the significance of rest and family time to team development through business coaching, Maddie offers a fresh perspective on balancing family dynamics in a business setting and how personal values can fuel effective leadership.

Faith and community play a pivotal role in shaping both personal and professional lives, as discussed with insights from Jeff Williams and his work with Strength Finders. Discover how faith-based practices and scripture, especially the encouraging verses from Isaiah, provide strength during challenging moments, like hitting sales targets. This conversation explores the importance of leadership and discipleship programs, daily devotionals, and small group activities that nurture personal growth and community among church members and colleagues, underscoring the vital role of family support and perseverance through faith.

FastSigns' journey from its humble beginnings to becoming a thriving business is nothing short of remarkable. Maddie details the evolution from manual processes to advanced technology, sharing their ambitious plans for future engagement with local chambers and an expanded sales team. Learn about the effective marketing strategies that have bolstered brand recognition and customer relationships, such as networking and personalized outreach. With highlights on the collaborative franchise model of FastSigns, this episode encapsulates the supportive network that drives the business's ongoing success.

To learn more about other entrepreneurship opportunities and the McGraw School of Business’s very own Createur Conference and Pitch Competition, go to Createur.Olivet.edu.

Ever wondered how a history teacher could transform into a thriving real estate entrepreneur? Tyler Lingle, co-founder of Roots Realty Co., reveals his incredible journey, sharing the pivotal moments that led him from the classroom to the competitive world of real estate. Tyler discusses the challenges faced during COVID-19 and how his father's entrepreneurial spirit motivated him to pivot his career. This episode is packed with insights on how Tyler’s educational background and strong network enabled a swift and successful transition, along with his ambitious goal of helping 10,000 people enter the real estate industry.

Discover the importance of relationships and faith in building a sustainable real estate business. Tyler and I delve into the benefits and challenges of a slow-growth investment model, emphasizing the value of trust, stewardship, and integrity. By adopting a steady pace of property acquisition, Tyler ensures each property is well-managed and profitable. This chapter also sheds light on how integrating faith into business practices can lead to stronger connections and a more meaningful professional journey.

Get ready to gain practical advice on real estate investing straight from a seasoned expert. Tyler shares his top tips and strategies, including leveraging resources like BiggerPockets.com and the importance of finding an investor-friendly agent. We discuss crucial metrics such as cash on cash return and total ROI, along with the significance of appreciation, tenant equity gains, tax benefits, and inflation hedging. Tyler also underscores the importance of daily habits, relationship-building, and balancing physical health and spirituality for long-term success. Plus, learn how to connect with Tyler, and hear about exciting opportunities at the Creator Conference and Pitch Competition. Don't miss this episode brimming with valuable insights and inspiring stories!

Links to Tyler Lingle: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-lingle/

https://www.instagram.com/tyler_lingle?igsh=MmEzeXZiNnN5N3ht

To learn more about other entrepreneurship opportunities and the McGraw School of Business’s very own Createur Conference and Pitch Competition, go to Createur.Olivet.edu.