Wantrepreneur to Entrepreneur | Start and Grow Your Own Business

Discover how Tim and Chelsie Wolter, the visionary co-founders of SafetyVue, are transforming construction safety as they share their compelling journey into entrepreneurship. With Tim's robust experience in construction and technology and Chelsie's healthcare expertise, this power couple turned a personal tragedy into a mission for safer work environments. Their friend's severe construction injury ignited their passion for creating an AI-powered platform that emphasizes preventative safety solutions, setting the stage for a revolutionary approach in the industry.

Explore the cutting-edge integration of VR, AR, and AI in construction, as Tim and Chelsie reveal the challenges and opportunities of blending technology with traditional practices. They advocate for a proactive risk management approach and emphasize the critical role of mental health programs in addressing issues like substance abuse and suicide in the industry. Building strong relationships across all levels, from frontline workers to decision-makers, they are crafting a future where technology continuously enhances workplace safety and mental well-being.

Join us as we unpack the dynamic interplay between Tim and Chelsie, both as business partners and a married couple navigating the demands of entrepreneurship and family life. From strategic sessions involving their children to fostering the next generation of entrepreneurs, they share their secrets to maintaining a values-driven company culture. By staying adaptable and building teams that complement their strengths, Tim and Chelsie are not only paving the way for safer construction sites but also cultivating a harmonious partnership at work and home.

ABOUT TIM & CHELSIE

Tim is a seasoned business professional with a deep-rooted passion for workplace safety, fueled by his background in construction and love for outdoor adventures. This passion became even more focused when a close friend suffered a life-altering accident on a construction site, highlighting the devastating consequences that can arise from inadequate safety measures.

Chelsie is a highly motivated and compassionate individual with a background in nursing, bringing a unique perspective on preventative measures and worker well-being. But it was actually our daughter's struggle in school that sparked the idea for SafetyVue's unique approach. Seeing her struggle with the one size fits all approach, we realized the same concept could revolutionize safety training, ensuring every worker gets the individualized training they need to stay safe.

Together, we co-founded SafetyVue with the mission to make workplace accidents a thing of the past. Our combined experience and drive allow us to create training solutions that are both effective and engaging, putting the worker at the center of the learning experience.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Visit SafetyVue’s Website
• Listen to Tim’s Podcast “The Safety Factor”
• Follow SafetyVue on Instagram
• Find SafetyVue on X
• Follow SafetyVue on LinkedIn
• Connect with Tim on LinkedIn
• Connect with Chelsie on LinkedIn

Imagine transforming an undesirable sales territory into a $2.1 million success story. That's just one of the incredible achievements Jake Pavelle shares with us in this episode. Jake's journey from a corporate sales role to launching his own business is an inspiring testament to the power of aligning your career with your core values. Influenced by his father's entrepreneurial spirit and a Jesuit education emphasizing service, Jake's story is one of courage, risk-taking, and the relentless pursuit of authenticity.

Jake opens up about the transition from corporate life to entrepreneurship, highlighting the critical role of self-belief and effective sales skills. His voyage was sparked by a candid camping trip discussion with friends, leading him to seek guidance from an industry veteran. This conversation underscores the importance of leaning into uncertainty, embracing change, and remaining steadfast in the quest for the right business idea. Through Jake's experiences, we learn how crucial it is to maintain open dialogues about ambitions and to surround oneself with supportive, knowledgeable individuals.

Emphasizing relationship-building as the heart of entrepreneurship, Jake discusses the joy of offering personalized service in contrast to the impersonal nature of larger companies. His passion for direct customer interaction and learning from seasoned professionals has been pivotal in his success in the power washing business. From gaining insights from an equipment shop owner to leveraging the wisdom of mentors, Jake advocates for the invaluable lessons learned through experience. Tune in to gain insights on the entrepreneurial mindset and discover actionable steps to embark on your own business journey.

ABOUT JAKE

Growing up around a father who owned a landscape business for 35 years, Jake Pavelle reached his tipping point in the corporate world and decided to pursue his ambition of entrepreneurship. He's focused on creating genuine connections with others, personally and professionally. Jake's service-first mindset stems from his Jesuit high school education, being a Man for Others. This philosophy led to his servant leadership practice in his personal life and within CPW. Now that he faced his fear and charted his path into the unknown, he's motivated to help others pursue their ambitions because the grass can be greener. Through words of his best friend, he's committed to living his life based on "remember when" versus "what if".

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Visit Colorado Power Wash’s Website
• Follow Colorado Power Wash on LinkedIn
• Subscribe to Colorado Power Wash on YouTube
• Find Colorado Power Wash on Facebook
• Connect with Jake on LinkedIn

In this vulnerable and no-holds-barred Solo Sunday, Brian gets real about something every entrepreneur faces—criticism, detractors, and the ever-present crab mentality that rears its head when you're doing something worthwhile.

From industry digs to social media jabs to in-person dismissals, Brian shares recent experiences that inspired this episode and how we must armor up to stay the course. If you've ever felt discouraged by outside noise, this episode is your reminder to ignore the crabs and keep climbing.

This isn’t just about entrepreneurship—it’s about life. And it’s a pep talk from someone deep in the arena, reminding you to protect your energy, your mission, and your mindset.

🧠 What You’ll Learn:

• What "crab mentality" is and why it shows up when you’re on the rise
• How to deal with criticism, digs, and unsolicited feedback
• The real metrics that matter in business and life
• Why longevity trumps virality
• How to stay focused and stay in the arena—no matter who's watching

🧩 Featured Concepts:

• 🦀 Crabs in a bucket: When others pull you down as you climb
• 🧱 Longevity over virality: Celebrating consistency and service
• 📉 Critics from the sidelines: Why they don’t matter
• 💬 Brené Brown wisdom: “If you’re not in the arena... I’m not interested in your feedback.”
• 📖 Book love: The Magic of Thinking Big by Dr. David J. Schwartz

💭 Favorite Quotes:

✅ Take Action:

• Embrace your period of grace—give yourself time to grow.
• Start showing up even when others don’t understand your path.
• Remember: The ones in the arena respect the hustle.
• Keep building. Keep growing. Keep believing.

🎧 Listen & Subscribe:

This is exactly why we’re here seven days a week.
Hit that Subscribe button and never face this journey alone.

What if you could harness the power of AI to revolutionize business while keeping the human touch intact? Join us as we engage with Sahal Laher, a global business leader with over 25 years in digital transformation, who shares his remarkable journey from engineering to the C-suite and working with iconic brands like Estee Lauder and Brooks Brothers. Now, as the CEO of Stickball, Sahal is using his expertise to develop AI-driven platforms that promote financial literacy and workforce readiness, bridging societal gaps and making a genuine impact through business. 

Sahal's insights on AI's role as a strategic enabler in business are invaluable, as we explore how companies can leverage technology while maintaining their unique human elements. The conversation navigates through the complexities of AI governance and the challenges it presents across both for-profit and non-profit sectors. We also touch on the misconceptions surrounding the financial dynamics of non-profits, setting up for an eye-opening discussion on aligning AI initiatives with long-term goals and the pace of technological change.

Our episode takes a fascinating turn as we explore the art of mapping organizational capabilities for success. With discussions on capability heat maps and the importance of continuous recalibration, we touch on the need to align passion with capability for true success. Moreover, Sahal introduces Stickball’s innovative approach to personalized learning, using AI to create adaptable educational experiences tailored to individual learning styles.

ABOUT SAHAL

Sahal Laher is a global business leader with over 25 years of experience in driving digital transformation and direct-to-consumer growth for iconic brands including Estee Lauder Companies, Brooks Brothers, and Deloitte. As a seasoned board member and C-suite executive, he has successfully transitioned from Fortune 500 CXO roles to his current position as CEO of Stickball, where he leads go-to-market operations and develops AI-based technology platforms. His board experience spans both corporate and charitable organizations, including serving on the board of VeloCloud (acquired by VMware), and dedication to social impact through board roles with the Cole Strange Foundation and Wine to Water. Sahal brings a data-driven operational perspective that focuses on elevating customer engagement through analytics and AI, optimizing omni-channel experiences, and driving productivity across global operations. He has a proven track record of building high-performing, cross-functional teams. Sahal grew up Zimbabwe and now lives in New England as an avid Celtics and Patriots fan.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Visit Stickball’s Website
• Connect with Sahal on LinkedIn

Unlock the secrets of storytelling and content marketing with James Merkley, the visionary behind Story Path Creative. James's journey from the world of music to becoming a content entrepreneur is nothing short of inspiring. He shares how his creative background and late ADHD diagnosis fueled his innovative approach to connecting with audiences. Learn how to captivate your audience and craft stories that stand out in the digital crowd, all while avoiding hefty agency fees.

Explore the transformative power of storytelling as a tool for business conversion. Discover how to tailor your narrative to resonate across various platforms, whether it's social media, podcasts, or face-to-face interactions. We’ll unravel the art of creating a compelling customer avatar and the strategic importance of grabbing attention within the first few seconds. James reflects on his own entrepreneurial journey along the way, busting the myth that not everyone has a story worth sharing, and emphasizes the importance of patience and persistence in reducing audience resistance over time.

Ever wondered what "enough" means in business and personal life? James offers invaluable insights into balancing ambition with realistic expectations, drawing from his own experiences. He shares the importance of recognizing personal limits to maintain well-being and authentic relationships.

ABOUT JAMES

James Merkley is the owner and founder of Story Path Creative, a content creation and content coaching agency that has helped their clients achieve over 10 million views on social media. With more than a decade of experience in professional branding and video production, he specializes in helping clients discover their "secret sauce" to build and monetize their online audiences.

A former professional musician of nearly 10 years, James transitioned into business ownership and entrepreneurship, where he found his true calling. His expertise has enabled businesses to develop new revenue streams from social media, and he has collaborated with non-profits nationwide to raise millions in funding.

James is particularly passionate about helping his coaching clients grow from "zero to hero" on social media without the substantial expense of agency services. Based in Colorado, where he enjoys both life and business, James shares his life with his wife Erin and son Ander, embracing the state's natural beauty.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Visit Story Path Creative’s Website
• Follow Story Path Creative on Instagram
• Subscribe to Story Path Creative’s YouTube Channel
• Connect with James on LinkedIn

What defines a successful salesperson across the globe? Dr. Deepak Bhootra, an entrepreneur and veteran in the sales world, unfolds his journey from corporate leader to passionate entrepreneur and author. In a candid conversation, he shares the profound influence of his family, especially his mother, in shaping his aspirations. Dr. Deepak also reflects on the pivotal impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led him to reassess his life's purpose and pivot from the corporate realm to follow his true passions. His insights into personal growth and global citizenship will inspire anyone looking to make a meaningful impact beyond financial success.

Listeners will gain valuable strategies as Dr. Deepak discusses the universal traits that propel sales success, transcending cultural boundaries. With over 30 years of experience working with 1,500 salespeople worldwide, Dr. Deepak highlights quick thinking, resilience, and the art of building internal alliances. By sharing personal anecdotes, including his grandfather's intuitive sales techniques, he illustrates how becoming a trusted advisor can elevate sales strategies. This episode is packed with wisdom on navigating price objections, adapting sales scripts, and focusing on client relationships rather than mere transactions.

Prepare to be inspired by Dr. Deepak's perspective on handling rejection with resilience, maintaining a strong sense of identity, and using personal challenges as catalysts for growth. He introduces his new book, "Boundless Within," which delves into the power of the mind in overcoming life's hurdles.

ABOUT DR. DEEPAK

With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Deepak Bhootra (Dr) is a visionary leader driving change through his company, Jabulani Consulting. From sales leadership coaching to sales training, Deepak is helping businesses unlock their true potential and adapt to a fast-paced world. His journey, from corporate leadership to authoring books, is a testament to innovation, resilience, and personal growth. His first fiction book "Curse Unwound" for Young Adults was published this year and his first contribution to a Chapter in an anthology title "Leadership DNA" hit the Amazon # 1 in the Business Operations book category in the first few weeks of release.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Connect with Dr. Deepak on LinkedIn
• Visit Jabulani Consulting’s Website
• Email Dr. Deepak at [email protected]
• Find Dr. Deepak’s Books on Amazon: 
  • Young Adult Fiction – Curse Unwound
  • A chapter on Mental Health in ‘Winning with Love’
  • A chapter on Mental Health in ‘Leadership DNA: Shaping A Thriving Business Culture’

Join us on this episode where creativity meets authenticity in the vibrant world of Broadway. This episode features the dynamic Zack Reiser, a marketing virtuoso who has revolutionized how Broadway shows connect with audiences on social media. From his humble beginnings in Connecticut to crafting successful social media campaigns for iconic productions like Hamilton and Mamma Mia, Zack’s story is a masterclass in leveraging passion and opportunity. You’ll uncover the strategic insights that propelled Zack from a film and television student to a leading force in Broadway marketing.

Our conversation unfolds the art of finding genuine voices in social media, especially for performers and brands. Discover how Zack creates authentic connections by integrating the true voices of performers in content, thus captivating a younger audience that craves authenticity. We also discuss the delicate dance between organic content and strategic messaging, tailored to diverse platforms and demographics. Zack’s stories illustrate the magic that happens when a Broadway show interacts with fans on social media, making them feel seen and valued, which is a powerful tool for fostering word-of-mouth promotion and loyalty.

As we navigate the complexities of social media frequency, the episode offers advice for entrepreneurs facing the daunting echo of the digital void. We explore the importance of enjoyment and authenticity in social media, with inspiring examples from brands like Duolingo and Wendy's. Zack also delves into overcoming imposter syndrome by acknowledging personal growth and achievements. Tune in for an episode brimming with inspiration, resilience, and the transformative power of storytelling.

ABOUT ZACK

Zack Reiser spent three years at Marathon Digital, where he spearheaded social campaigns for iconic Broadway shows including Hamilton, Hadestown, Back to the Future, and Sweeney Todd, as well as renowned Broadway brands like Jujamcyn Theaters. Previously, he worked in Marketing & Communications at the American Repertory Theatre in Cambridge, MA. His innovative content has generated millions of views and consistently exceeded industry engagement rates.

Armed with a M.S. in Integrated Marketing from NYU and a B.S. in Communication from Boston University, Reiser's skill set spans strategy development, content creation, multimedia production, and analytics tracking. His expertise includes photography, videography, TikTok creation, graphic design, copywriting, and community engagement.

Beyond social media, he's a two-time Tony Award®-nominated producer with PickleStar Theatricals, contributing to Broadway productions like Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club, Harmony, and Fat Ham. He lives in New York City with his partner and their mini goldendoodle, Sadie.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Visit Neon Lights Digital Media’s Website
• Follow Neon Lights Digital Media on Instagram
• Find Zack on Instagram
• Connect with Zack on LinkedIn

What if mastering SEO could revolutionize your marketing strategy? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Brian Oddo, an experienced SEO specialist, whose journey from selling homework passes in grade school to collaborating with giants like Amex and DirecTV offers a wealth of insight. Brian unpacks the enduring power of search engine optimization amidst the social media surge, emphasizing its vital role for budget-conscious brands aiming to carve out their digital footprint and resonate with audiences.

We break down the essentials of crafting an effective SEO strategy, distinguishing between on-page and off-page techniques. Brian likens search engines to recruiters, offering practical advice on how businesses can polish their digital "resumes" to climb the ranks. Through this insightful discussion with Brian, we unravel the significance of relevance in content, the evolving art of backlinks, and the importance of maintaining a solid social reputation. This episode serves as a valuable guide for business owners striving to balance technical SEO strategies with authentic business practices.

The conversation shifts towards leveraging technology and AI in content creation, enhancing user experience, and optimizing conversion rates. Brian shares his perspective on how websites can act as dynamic growth engines, particularly for local businesses. He emphasizes the growing importance of maintaining sharp digital skills and effective website management for solopreneurs juggling multiple roles.

ABOUT BRIAN

After seven years of marketing agency life, Brian Oddo ditched the 9-5 to start his own SEO/UX solo consultant business, Oddo Digital, while traveling the country with his now fiancé.

While living in six cities the past two years, Brian has been fortunate enough to work with large enterprise brands like AMEX, Charles Schwab, DIRECTV, and Blackbaud as well as small local businesses.

In addition to Oddo Digital, he also started a newsletter, Free at Lance, which provides tips for people looking to make the leap into self-employment.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Visit Oddo Digital’s Website
• Connect with Brian on LinkedIn

Mihika Roy, the visionary founder of The Miracle Trail, joins us to share her transformative journey from a 19-year-old in search of direction to a leading figure in personal development. Discover how Mihika's background in psychology and global media has equipped her with the unique ability to guide others toward a purposeful and passion-driven life. Her story is a testament to the power of self-discovery as she moved away from the corporate world to create impactful wellness experiences that have already empowered over 100 women to find clarity and strength in their lives.

Learn how to uncover your personal blind spots and connect with your true calling by embracing self-awareness and self-discovery. Mihika introduces practical tools like energy mapping, journaling, and meditation to help you identify and overcome emotional and energetic barriers. She highlights the critical difference between passion, which is about personal joy, and purpose, which is about making a difference in the world. Through her insights, you'll be inspired to align your life’s work with your genuine passions and move beyond societal expectations.

Balancing financial success with personal fulfillment is no easy feat, but Mihika provides valuable insights into achieving this harmony. Reflecting on cultural pressures, she offers guidance on how to leverage your strengths and cultivate authenticity in both life and work. Mihika stresses the importance of regular introspection through meditation and journaling as a cornerstone of personal growth, encouraging you to question external judgments and embrace your true values and aspirations. Join us for a captivating conversation that empowers you to transcend traditional confines and live a life of authenticity and impact.

ABOUT MIHIKA

Mihika Roy is the founder of The Miracle Trail, a coaching and personal development company dedicated to helping individuals realign with their purpose and passions. With a background in Psychology and Global Media, Mihika combines her expertise in human behavior with her love for storytelling to guide clients on meaningful journeys of self-discovery and growth. As a former co-curator for a leading life-transformation retreat company and the driving force behind a successful holistic wellness program, Mihika brings years of experience in designing impactful growth experiences. Her signature program, Find What Lights You Up, is a 12-week guided journey that helps individuals uncover their unique passions, overcome self-doubt, and craft an empowered vision for their future.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Visit The Miracle Trail’s Website
• Follow The Miracle Trail on Instagram
• Find Mihika on Instagram
• Connect with Mihika on LinkedIn

In this very special Solo Sunday—our first of 2025—Brian takes the mic to deliver two major announcements that mark a powerful shift in the Wantrepreneur to Entrepreneur Podcast and beyond.

From expanding to seven days a week to launching a brand new nonprofit dedicated to making entrepreneurship more accessible, this episode is packed with inspiration, reflection, and a heartfelt story that will hit you in the feels.

Plus, Brian shares an unforgettable excerpt from Chop Wood Carry Water that challenges you to look at how you're "building your own house" in life and business.

If you're ready to level up and build with intention, this episode is for you.

🧠 What You'll Learn:

• Why the podcast is now airing every single day of the week
• The story and mission behind the launch of Through Entrepreneurship, our new nonprofit
• A powerful mindset shift from Chop Wood Carry Water by Joshua Medcalf
• Why your everyday efforts matter more than you think
• How you can be a part of this movement—whether financially or simply by showing up

📚 Resource Mentioned:

📖 Book:
Chop Wood Carry Water: How to Fall in Love with the Process of Becoming Great by Joshua Medcalf
(Highly recommended by Brian and many past guests—quick read, life-changing lessons.)

💥 Big Announcements:

1. We’re now a 7-days-a-week podcast!
   More value. More guests. More YOU-time.
2. We launched a nonprofit: Through Entrepreneurship
   Focused on making entrepreneurship more accessible through education, mentorship, and resources.
   👉 Support or learn more on our GoFundMe page
   📬 Want to get involved? Email Brian: [email protected]

✅ Take Action:

• Rate & Review the show on Apple Podcasts – it truly helps and means the world.
• Share this episode with a fellow entrepreneur or wantrepreneur.
• Reach out if you want to support or volunteer for Through Entrepreneurship.

🎧 Listen & Subscribe:

Don’t miss a single episode now that we’re on 7 days a week!
Hit that Subscribe button on your favorite podcast platform.