The Edge Of Excellence Podcast

In today's episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by Hirad Emadi, co-founder and President of Innovative Construction Solutions.

During this engaging conversation, Matt explores the journey of a successful entrepreneur who transitioned from a stable career to launching a thriving business. Hirad highlights the importance of identifying gaps in the market and consistently adding value, which can lead to repeat business and long-term success.

You'll discover the dynamics of partnerships in business, as well as the benefits and potential pitfalls of working with partners. Gain insights on how compromise and shared values are crucial for a successful partnership, and how different approaches can lead to various outcomes. 

This episode provides a rich tapestry of experiences and lessons for anyone interested in the entrepreneurial journey.

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What You Will Learn In This Show:

• Why consistently adding value and addressing gaps in service can lead to repeat business and long-term success.
• The dynamics of business partnerships, including the benefits of compromise and shared values, and how different approaches can impact the success of a venture.
• Achieving balance between a demanding career and personal life, and the importance of family and community involvement.
• The value of developing essential skills like people skills and writing skills early in your career, and how these can contribute to long-term success.
• The concept that passion can emerge from hard work and success, even in areas you weren't initially passionate about, and the importance of staying open to new passions.
• And so much more...

Resources:

Hirad's LinkedIn

Innovative Construction Solutions

In today's episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by Brad Baldridge, certified financial planner, college funding consultant, and chief podcaster at Taming the High Cost of College.

Matt and Brad explore the multifaceted process of preparing for an important milestone that affects many families—paying for college. They discuss various strategies and options available to navigate this complex landscape, as well as the importance of understanding different types of support and how they can impact overall outcomes.

You'll discover the specific challenges faced by those in unique situations, such as owning a business or dealing with unexpected financial changes. You'll also find insights on how to leverage available resources and make strategic choices to optimize benefits.

Whether dealing with financial aid, merit-based awards, or other types of support, this episode provides valuable guidance for anyone facing this pivotal stage in life.

Don't miss another episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• The differences between need-based aid and merit-based aid, and how to identify which type of aid you might qualify for.
• Why top-tier schools like Harvard and Yale often do not offer merit aid and focus solely on need-based aid, and how this can affect your financial planning.
• Specific strategies for business owners to manage their finances and maximize aid eligibility, including tax benefits and income management.
• The importance of finding a college where you will thrive, and how this decision can outweigh the prestige of attending a more expensive institution.
• Practical advice on leveraging available resources, doing thorough research, and making informed decisions to achieve long-term success in your educational journey.
• And so much more...

Resources:

Taming the High Cost of College

Baldridge College Solutions 

Brad's LinkedIn

In this episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by Darton Case, owner and CEO of Dart Appraisal Services.

They discuss the challenges and triumphs faced in building a lasting business. Darton offers insights on having a long-term vision, emphasizing how critical it is for entrepreneurs to diversify and not rely too heavily on a single client or market. 

You'll discover the evolution of Darton's role from a hands-on entrepreneur to a CEO who empowers his team to take the reins. The conversation explores the importance of continuous learning and the value of being part of a supportive peer group.

Darton also touches on the sacrifices and decisions that shaped his path, particularly the intense focus and work ethic required in his 20s, as well as the significance of finding a career that aligns with one's passions and strengths.

Don't miss another episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• The difficulties entrepreneurs face, including the statistic that 90% of businesses fail within the first few years.
• How Darton's company expanded statewide and then nationally by diversifying their client base and focusing on service excellence.
• Darton's commitment to continuous learning through organizations like EO, where he gained insights from peers facing similar challenges.
• How strategic acquisitions are crucial in overcoming stagnation and regulatory challenges in Darton's industry.
• And so much more...

Resources:

Dart Appraisal Services

In this episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by Ryan Coon, entrepreneur and former CEO / co-owner of Avail.

Ryan outlines some of the invaluable lessons learned from his early career experiences. He emphasizes the importance of building relationships and networking, particularly how connections made during internships and college can lead to unexpected opportunities later in life.

You'll learn about the serendipity of reconnecting with former colleagues and mentors in various professional contexts, illustrating the long-term benefits of maintaining a robust professional network.

Ryan reflects on the journey of growing his business from a small startup to a thriving company, the strategies that led to their success, and the importance of being intentional and deliberate with one's time and efforts.

You'll also get a glimpse into the high-stakes world of acquisitions, detailing the unique process Ryan underwent when his company caught the interest of major industry players.

Don't miss another episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• How connections made during internships and college can lead to significant professional opportunities in the future.
• Strategies for being deliberate and intentional with your time to achieve high performance in your professional endeavors.
• The importance of maintaining confidence and persistence in the face of rejection, and understanding it as part of the journey to success.
• The value of building optionality in your career and business decisions, ensuring you have multiple paths and opportunities available.
• And so much more...

Resources:

Ryan's LinkedIn

In this episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by Madi McSwain, an insurance agent with Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance.

Madi shares her unique journey and the strategies she has employed to achieve success in her professional life. She emphasizes the importance of relationship-building, strategic planning, and maintaining a customer-focused approach.

You'll discover the challenges Madi encountered in her early days starting from scratch, the sacrifices she made, and the relentless work ethic that drove her to the top. Be inspired by her story of perseverance, dedication, and the strategic choices that have defined her career.

You'll also get a glimpse into the impact of supportive relationships and how Madi's upbringing and the encouragement from loved ones have played a pivotal role in her achievements.

Don't miss another episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• The advantages of being a multi-line agent and how it simplifies clients’ insurance needs, making it cost-effective and easier to manage.
• The challenges and rewards of starting as a scratch agent, focusing on new business development, and transitioning to managing a book of business through referrals.
• The value of giving back and helping others, inspired by the guest’s own experiences and the positive impact of her internship.
• The career progression within the insurance industry and the skills and attitudes necessary to advance from entry-level to higher responsibilities.
• And so much more...

Resources:

Madi's LinkedIn

Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance

In this engaging episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by David Renberg, a successful entrepreneur who started his own real estate brokerage at a remarkably young age.

Throughout the conversation, David reflects on his journey, offering insights and advice based on his experiences. He shares key moments of growth and realization, touching on topics like work-life balance, team building, and the importance of perspective in handling challenges.

You'll take a journey through David's career, from the early days of starting his brokerage to his present-day successes. The discussion also dives into the mindset required to navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship, as well as the importance of staying grounded and focused on long-term goals.

David's story will resonate with anyone seeking to make a positive impact, showcasing the power of perseverance and the value of building meaningful connections in both business and life.

Don't miss another episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• The core values of David's business, emphasizing integrity, excellence, and kindness.
• How hiring the right staff and delegating tasks effectively has helped him grow his business and maintain a better work-life balance.
• David's advice to his younger self: to not stress over every detail and task.
• David's insights from the book "What's Best Next" by Matt Perman, highlighting the concept of scheduling your day at 70% capacity.
• Why David believes his greatest impact may come from his influence on others, particularly his children and those he mentors.
• And so much more...

Resources:

Foundation Realty

David's LinkedIn

What's Best Next book

In this engaging episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by Mason Lindsay, a promising young entrepreneur, exploring the journey of career discovery and personal growth.

Mason reflects on the pressures and misconceptions surrounding the need to determine a lifelong career path early on, contrasting it with the more realistic approach of exploring various opportunities. You'll discover insights on how a mindset of appreciation and gratitude can open doors and create opportunities that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Mason also offers insights on the importance of surrounding oneself with inspiring and supportive individuals. Throughout this insightful conversation, you'll learn to embrace a mindset of continuous improvement and to recognize the potential that lies in gratitude, sacrifice, and supportive relationships.

Don't miss another episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• The misconception that people need to know what they want to do for the rest of their lives early on.
• The importance of making sacrifices, such as giving up leisure activities like playing Xbox, to achieve long-term goals.
• The importance of effort, bravery, and adherence to high standards in generating further success.
• The value of surrounding oneself with motivated and successful individuals to provide guidance and support.
• Why taking on responsibility, such as managing and inspiring a team, can make it easier to make sacrifices and stay committed to goals.
• And so much more...

On today's episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by Grace Jones as they discuss her professional journey and the significance of internships and diverse work experiences in shaping her career. She reflects on how college internships, particularly those that allowed her to run her own business, provided her with the freedom and guidance to explore and succeed in the business world. Grace highlights how these opportunities equipped her with the skills necessary to navigate and thrive in various industries, emphasizing that if the right opportunities aren't available, one should take initiative to create them.

Grace's path took an interesting turn when she moved into a role in entertainment sales at Back Nine, a company distinct from her original career aspirations in the music industry. Her role involves crafting unique event experiences, requiring her to leverage high-level communication and problem-solving skills to meet diverse client needs. This role has not only allowed her to refine her sales and management skills but has also positioned her strategically for lateral moves within the entertainment and music industries. Grace underscores the importance of adapting and transferring skills across different fields to achieve one's career goals.

The conversation also explores personal challenges Grace has faced, particularly her recovery from multiple hip surgeries during college, which forced her to pause her career pursuits temporarily. This period of forced inactivity provided her with valuable time for self-reflection and personal growth, highlighting the importance of resilience and adaptability. Grace discusses how surrounding herself with supportive people and engaging in activities that brought her joy helped her navigate these challenges effectively. She concludes with reflections on the sacrifices made during her college years, noting that while she may have missed out on typical college experiences, the choices she made were instrumental in setting her up for future success.

Join Matt and Grace for this fascinating episode. 

Enjoy! 

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• How college internships provide the freedom and structure to create your own business, book clients, and shape your professional path under expert guidance.
• The importance of lateral movement in a career, how to combine passion with professional success, and the significance of taking on different roles to gain diverse experiences that prepare you for your ultimate career goals.
• How facing and overcoming personal challenges, like managing multiple surgeries, can contribute to personal growth, better self-awareness, and professional clarity.
• How selling techniques can vary significantly between industries like home services and entertainment, and why mastering these can be crucial to career advancement in sales.
• How critical listening, communication, and problem-solving skills are developed through real-world experience, not just classroom learning, and how these skills apply across various job roles and industries.
• The sacrifices made during formative years and how these choices, often in lieu of typical leisure activities, set the stage for future professional achievements and satisfaction.
• And so much more...

On today's episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by Sishir Reddy, CEO and co-founder of Episource, as he shares his entrepreneurial journey, detailing the challenges and pivotal moments that shaped his career. Initially inspired by his father's suggestion to explore medical billing, Sishir set out to establish a medical billing outsourcing business in India. With his father's practice as his first client, he learned the intricacies of the industry and gradually built a team, starting with his first employee, Gopi. The business slowly expanded as Sishir leveraged his network of doctors in Southern California, a strategy that eventually led to a significant turning point when he was introduced to a larger managed care organization. This connection allowed him to pivot from medical billing to risk adjustment coding services, recognizing a niche market with greater growth potential.

Sishir's journey underscores the importance of adaptability and seizing opportunities. After realizing the complexities and limitations of managing a medical billing business, he and his partners decided to focus entirely on the burgeoning field of risk adjustment coding for health plans. This strategic pivot paid off, leading to rapid growth and the eventual shutdown of their initial business model. By 2008, the company was thriving, and by maintaining a disciplined, bootstrapped approach, they reached significant revenue milestones without outside capital. Sishir also navigated complex partnership dynamics, bringing on his partner's son-in-law, whose finance and operational expertise complemented his strengths in sales and strategy. This collaboration proved crucial in scaling the business to new heights.

Ultimately, Sishir's decision to sell the business to UnitedHealth Group marked the culmination of his entrepreneurial efforts. Post-exit, he faced a period of adjustment, grappling with a sense of loss and seeking new directions. This introspective phase led him to prioritize family time and philanthropic endeavors, focusing on education and healthcare within his community. Embracing a mentor and advisor role, Sishir aims to leverage his extensive experience to support emerging businesses and make a positive impact. His story is a testament to the power of resilience, strategic pivots, and the ability to adapt and thrive in the face of changing circumstances.

Join Matt and Sishir for this fascinating episode. 

Enjoy! 

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• How Sishir recognized the opportunity to pivot from medical billing to risk adjustment coding services for health plans.
• The importance of identifying and adapting to new market opportunities.
• The advantages of maintaining a bootstrapped mentality, generating positive cash flow and reinvesting in the business to drive growth without relying on outside capital.
• The value of leveraging complementary skills in business partnerships.
• The challenges and strategies for managing fast-paced growth in a business.
• The risks and rewards of involving family members in business, and how Sishir balanced family ties with professional responsibilities.
• The considerations and strategic thinking involved in deciding to sell a business.
• The emotional challenges that can follow after exiting a business and strategies for finding new purpose and direction.
• How Sishir transitioned from business to philanthropic efforts, giving back to the community and supporting local initiatives in education and healthcare.
• And so much more...

Resources:

Episource

Sishir's LinkedIn

On today's episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by Jeff Gunhus, a seasoned entrepreneur, to discuss the concept of excellence and business leadership. Jeff defines excellence as a deliberate choice to pursue the best version of oneself across all life's endeavors, stressing the importance of being both content and driven. Throughout their conversation, Jeff shares insights from his journey of building a successful business empire, emphasizing the pivotal role of making strategic choices, even when they entail personal sacrifices, such as missing out on leisure activities to focus on career growth.

The discussion then pivots to Jeff's entrepreneurial experiences, where he elaborates on transitioning his business model in response to unforeseen challenges, such as regulatory changes and market dynamics. This shift notably involved downsizing from $6 million to $1.6 million in revenue, which set the stage for a remarkable recovery and growth trajectory, demonstrating resilience and adaptability. Jeff highlights the critical role of team building and maintaining a brand that genuinely resonates with both employees and customers, fostering a culture of high performance and mutual respect.

Towards the end of the episode, Jeff and Matt explore the importance of aligning personal values with professional endeavors, which ensures sustained passion and commitment. Jeff shares personal anecdotes, including his family's involvement in community service, illustrating how personal values deeply influence professional actions and company culture. The episode concludes with Jeff reflecting on the sacrifices made during his career, reinforcing that short-term trade-offs can lead to long-term rewards, encapsulating the podcast's theme of striving towards excellence through thoughtful decision-making and persistent effort.

Join Matt and Jeff for this fascinating episode. 

Enjoy! 

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• How excellence is not about being the best in the field but striving to be the best version of oneself.
• How to transition from small-scale successes to major brand building, and the importance of vision in scaling businesses effectively.
• How effective partnerships are crucial and how mutual understanding and shared goals strengthen business relationships.
• Jeff's experiences of balancing career ambitions with personal life, providing a blueprint for managing professional growth without compromising personal relationships.
• The long-term impacts of early career choices and the importance of international exposure and adapting to various cultural environments.
• The resilience businesses require to adapt to external changes, like regulatory shifts, and how these can be opportunities for significant growth.
• How a company's values and culture contribute to its success, and how to integrate personal values into your business practices for holistic success.
• Insights into taking full ownership of one’s actions and decisions in business, promoting a leadership style that fosters accountability and growth.
• The significance of finding joy in one’s professional journey, regardless of the challenges faced, which can lead to a more fulfilling career and life.
• And so much more...

Resources:

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