Jerry Hraban, founder of Premier Insurance Partners and national leader in insurance wholesaling, joins Eunicia Peret to break down what it really takes to build long-term wealth and scale a sustainable business. With over 20 years in the industry, Jerry shares why he intentionally chose a residual-income model early in his career and how persistence—not talent—ultimately drove his success. The conversation dives into the realities of the insurance industry, the importance of ethical selling, and how to build trust in a commission-driven world. Jerry also unpacks powerful lessons around team building, letting go of control, and why most business owners stay stuck. From writing a book to position yourself as an expert to mastering patience in decision-making, this episode is packed with practical strategies for building a business that lasts.

Residual income builds real wealth: Subscription-based models create long-term financial stability

Persistence beats talent: Consistency over time will outperform short bursts of effort

Every industry has bad actors: The key is education, transparency, and offering clients real options

Don’t react too quickly: Thoughtful decisions often come from slowing down, not speeding up

You don’t need to be the smartest: Following proven systems and staying consistent leads to success

Team building requires letting go: Growth happens when you stop trying to control everything

Mistakes accelerate growth: Learning quickly is more important than avoiding failure

Most business owners stay small by choice: Fear of losing control limits scalability

Perception matters: Positioning yourself as an expert can transform your business opportunities

Differentiation is everything: You must stand out beyond price, service, and generic claims

[00:00:00] Introduction to Jerry Hraban and his background

[00:02:00] Why he chose insurance and the power of residual income

[00:04:00] Early struggles and building long-term success

[00:05:00] The reality of commissions and trust in financial services

[00:06:00] Mis-selling across industries and ethical responsibility

[00:07:00] Training agents and providing better client options

[00:08:00] Educating CPAs and bridging knowledge gaps

[00:10:00] Specialization vs. being a “jack of all trades”

[00:11:00] Persistence vs. intelligence in business success

[00:12:00] Staying the course during difficult periods

[00:14:00] Avoiding comparison and focusing on your own pace

[00:15:00] Building a company vs. being self-employed

[00:16:00] Letting go of control and empowering your team

[00:17:00] Why mistakes are necessary for growth

[00:18:00] Leadership lessons and managing employees effectively

[00:19:00] Early mistakes: reacting too quickly in business

[00:21:00] The power of patience and thoughtful responses

[00:23:00] Giving yourself and others grace in communication

[00:24:00] Positioning yourself as an expert (books, speaking, content)

[00:26:00] Differentiating yourself in a crowded market

[00:28:00] Final thoughts on growth, branding, and long-term success

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerryhraban/

In this episode of Your Business Your Next Level, I sit down with Denys Zubryn, founder and CEO of Load N' Go, a fast-scaling logistics company currently operating over 140 trucks—with plans to hit 1,000 in the next year. Denys shares how he came to the U.S. from Ukraine, started as a dishwasher, and built a multimillion-dollar trucking business through grit, discipline, and vision.

We dive into how his Ironman training shaped his approach to leadership, why ads and visibility are non-negotiables for scaling, and how he’s learned to delegate, attract top talent, and cut ties with toxic employees. Denys also breaks down how consistency and community are the keys to not only surviving but thriving in a challenging market. His story is raw, inspiring, and filled with actionable advice for entrepreneurs across industries.

Key Takeaways:

Consistency Is the Multiplier: Denys credits his Ironman training and business success to showing up every single day—regardless of how he feels.

Don’t Try to Do It All Yourself: True scaling begins when you learn to delegate and build a team around your vision.

Visibility Drives Growth: From events to YouTube to every ad platform, Denys says omnipresence is critical for hiring and brand trust.

Toxic Employees Will Derail You: Even high performers can tank morale—cutting ties early protects your culture and your growth.

Dedicated Lanes = Long-Term Success: In trucking—and in business—knowing your ideal lane helps you deliver more value, hire better, and plan for growth.

Timeline Summary:

[00:00] - From dishwasher to trucking CEO: Denys’ immigrant journey

[02:00] - How Load N' Go got its start with cash and grit

[04:00] - Why ads and visibility are everything in a growth business

[06:00] - Lessons from 5 Ironman races and how they translate to leadership

[08:00] - Stepping back from racing to prioritize family and legacy

[09:00] - Scaling insights: discipline, delegation, and data

[11:00] - The current state of the trucking industry and market conditions

[13:00] - The impact of owner-operators undercutting the market

[15:00] - Bridging the gap between brokers and carriers through better relationships

[17:00] - The danger of keeping toxic team members too long

[20:00] - Why "great work" doesn’t excuse bad culture

[22:00] - The importance of finding your version of “dedicated lanes” in any business

[24:00] - Final advice: stay curious, stay visible, stay consistent

Links & Resources:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/denyszubryn/

In this episode of Your Business Your Next Level, I sit down with Michael Friedland—entrepreneur, real estate investor, and founder of Schlepper Moving & Storage. Michael’s story is a fascinating blend of philosophy, sleight-of-hand magic, and highly practical business acumen. He’s built successful ventures by aligning his daily life with his strengths and learning how to structure businesses so they don’t rely on him.

We explore how Michael uses frameworks like Porter’s Five Forces and SWOT analysis to evaluate opportunities, why entrepreneurs should focus on working “on” the business, not “in” it, and how understanding your own strengths and constraints leads to smarter investments and a more fulfilling life. This is a must-listen for anyone balancing multiple interests, building a team, or searching for clarity in how they use their time and money.

Key Takeaways:

Know Your Core Competency: Whether it's business, magic, or music, Michael believes excellence comes from aligning with what you naturally do day after day.

Delegation Isn’t Optional—It’s Growth: Scaling requires letting go of the tasks that drain you and empowering others to do what they’re great at.

Use Real Strategy Tools to Evaluate Risk: Michael uses frameworks like Porter’s Five Forces to pressure test ideas and avoid wasting time or capital.

Failing Smart is the Best Teacher: Michael’s early failures taught him to prioritize control and cash flow over chasing unicorns.

Invest With Clarity, Not Fantasy: Your strategy should match your personality and constraints. Otherwise, you’re setting yourself up for unnecessary losses.

Timeline Summary:

[00:00] - Michael’s background: from philosophy major to magician to moving company founder

[03:00] - How his “room rotation” routine led to 10,000-hour mastery in multiple fields

[05:00] - Time management, energy, and knowing what to say no to

[07:00] - The transition from working in the business to working on it

[09:00] - Why talent with heart matters more than just credentials

[10:00] - Intro to Porter’s Five Forces and how he uses them to vet opportunities

[13:00] - Why commoditized industries can still be profitable if you play to your edge

[15:00] - The importance of reducing substitution risk in business

[18:00] - Venture capital vs. actual business building—two very different games

[22:00] - Why Michael avoids the public markets and focuses on what he can control

[26:00] - Understanding your own “investment character” to avoid bad advice

[29:00] - The illusion of financial gurus and the coin-flip nature of success stories

[33:00] - Asking the right questions to drive progress instead of paralysis

[36:00] - How failures sharpen strategy—and why regrets can become superpowers

[39:00] - Final thoughts on personal responsibility and building a business that fits you

Links & Resources:

http://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-friedland-mba-5465632

In this episode of Your Business Your Next Level, I sit down with Steve Hamalian, a true entrepreneur who, after multiple career changes, found his lasting passion in the luxury watch and jewelry business. Steve and his wife have built a thriving client-centric store in Maryland, known not only for its unique offerings but also for creating unforgettable experiences where clients and brands meet face-to-face.

Steve shares how being a contrarian helped him grow during downturns, why focusing on rare, boutique brands created loyal national and international clientele, and how personal interaction and community-building have set his business apart. We also discuss lessons from humble beginnings, the dangers of rushing into investments or purchases, and the mindset shifts necessary to create long-term success.

Key Takeaways:

Being a Contrarian Can Be a Competitive Advantage: Steve explains how going against the grain—especially during market downturns—allowed his business to flourish while competitors failed.

Focus on Experiences, Not Just Transactions: Hosting events where clients meet watchmakers created powerful brand loyalty and community.

Start Humble, Build Big: From a mall pushcart to a nationally respected brand, Steve’s story shows that how you start isn’t where you end up.

Slow Down Your Decisions: Whether buying luxury goods or building a business, taking your time leads to better long-term satisfaction and fewer regrets.

The Right People Matter: Success hinges on surrounding yourself with the right team—and staying true to your independent vision.

Timeline Summary:

[00:00] - Steve’s journey into watches and jewelry through supporting his wife’s business

[02:00] - How a casual idea led to a thriving watch business

[04:00] - The power of being contrarian—especially during downturns

[06:00] - Creating a unique inventory of rare and boutique brands

[08:00] - Building national and international clientele through rare experiences

[10:00] - How investing in a local event space changed the game

[12:00] - Maintaining an independent vision without industry pressure

[13:00] - Steve’s eclectic career path before entrepreneurship

[15:00] - Why hard work and trust-building are his true superpowers

[17:00] - Scaling by building a strong, loyal team

[19:00] - Lessons from a marketing campaign that missed the mark

[22:00] - Advice: Slow down purchases, trust your gut, and find the right mentors

[24:00] - Final thoughts on having fun, building community, and creating lasting success

Links & Resources:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-hammalian-b9362017/

In this episode of Your Business Your Next Level, I sit down with Dr. Reynolds Kairus—physician, speaker, and founder of XR Consulting Group. From dropping out of high school and growing up in poverty to earning a medical degree and consulting for the U.S. government, Reynolds’ story is a masterclass in turning adversity into opportunity.

We talk about his decision to pivot from traditional medicine into holistic wellness after seeing firsthand how many chronic conditions are preventable with lifestyle changes. Reynolds breaks down why successful entrepreneurs must treat health as seriously as their business, how faith and fulfillment impact longevity, and what practical steps anyone can take—starting today—to feel better and live longer. His energy is contagious, his wisdom is grounded, and this episode is packed with both challenge and hope.

Key Takeaways:

Your Health Fuels Your Business: High-performing leaders who neglect their physical or mental health unknowingly limit their own growth potential.

Mindset Over Medication: Reynolds left the hospital system because too many treatments were band-aids. Lasting change comes from internal shifts—not external fixes.

Wellness Isn't Woo-Woo: True wellness isn’t goat yoga or infrared beds. It’s water, sleep, movement, nutrition, and mindset—executed consistently.

Faith, Family, Fitness, Fulfillment, Finances: These five pillars must work in harmony for true resiliency. When one lags, everything suffers.

Leaders Can’t Pour From an Empty Cup: Being "selfish" about your health is one of the most selfless things you can do for your family, team, and future.

Timeline Summary:

[00:00] - Reynolds’ journey from gang member to doctor to wellness consultant

[03:00] - Realizing medicine wasn’t addressing root causes—so he built a new path

[06:00] - The different types of clients he helps: individuals, corporations, and the U.S. government

[08:00] - Why most “wellness” trends are just marketing—and what works instead

[10:00] - Simple habits that beat 90% of the wellness noise (water, burpees, and less food)

[12:00] - The five pillars of holistic success: faith, family, fitness, fulfillment, and finances

[16:00] - Why mindset is the real unlock for high achievers

[21:00] - Being honest with yourself—and how to spot people who only tell you what you want to hear

[25:00] - How Reynolds balances fatherhood, faith, and service across state lines

[28:00] - Using adversity as a launchpad instead of a limitation

[31:00] - His biggest regret: not reading and applying biblical wisdom sooner

[34:00] - Final words of encouragement for leaders: take care of yourself because others are counting on you

Links & Resources:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/reynolds-kairus-m-d-702896256/

In this episode of Your Business Your Next Level, I sit down with Joe Hepp, a seasoned commercial real estate professional with over $1 billion in transaction experience across income-producing properties like retail centers, apartments, industrial facilities, and offices. Joe brings two decades of real-world insight into how commercial real estate can serve as a smart alternative investment—when you know what to look for.

We discuss why understanding the difference between operators and syndicators matters, why many financial advisors steer clients away from real estate, and how to think critically before diving into opportunities. Joe also shares candid advice on evaluating operators, weathering market cycles, and why working with seasoned experts is essential to minimizing risk. Whether you’re new to alternative investments or looking to sharpen your portfolio strategy, this conversation is packed with clarity and actionable insights.

Key Takeaways:

Commercial Real Estate is a Powerful Alternative Asset: Direct ownership provides income, appreciation, tax benefits, and a hedge against inflation—when done correctly.

Operators vs. Syndicators Matters: True operators have skin in the game and operational expertise; syndicators often do not. Understand the difference before investing.

Cycles Separate the Professionals: It’s easy to look good in a boom. Real expertise is proven by surviving and thriving through market downturns.

Due Diligence is Non-Negotiable: Don’t let fear of missing out (FOMO) drive your investments. Take the time to understand the asset, the people, and the risks.

Financial Advisors Often Aren't Real Estate Experts: Many advisors discourage direct real estate investment simply because it falls outside their control or compensation model.

Timeline Summary:

[00:00] - Joe’s journey from finance and insurance into commercial real estate

[02:00] - Moving from Florida to Charlotte and joining Medalist Capital

[04:00] - State of the commercial real estate market today

[06:00] - Why uncertainty is causing many investors to sit on the sidelines

[08:00] - The importance of choosing seasoned operators—not chasing hype

[10:00] - Understanding syndications vs. true operators

[12:00] - Why direct real estate ownership outperforms REITs for some investors

[14:00] - The mindset shift needed around alternative investments

[16:00] - How Joe and his firm help investors access better capital structures

[19:00] - What Joe would tell his younger self about becoming a developer

[22:00] - Advice for anyone considering a future in commercial real estate

[25:00] - Closing thoughts: take the time to learn and align with your goals

Links & Resources:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-hepp-76464a6/

In this episode of Your Business Your Next Level, I sit down with Jeremy Blount—better known as JB—Vice President of General Construction Management and partner in both Rhino Excavating and GCM Mechanical. What started as a heartfelt decision to leave ministry and join his father’s construction company has turned into a multimillion-dollar operation with multiple successful businesses under one roof.

Jeremy shares how values like faith, accountability, and people-first leadership have guided the expansion of their family business across Pennsylvania and beyond. We unpack why growth without integrity is hollow, how tough conversations are essential to team development, and why delegation, partnership, and humility are the keys to sustainable leadership. If you're leading a team or thinking about generational business transition, this is a must-listen.

Key Takeaways:

Legacy Can Drive Your Business Forward: JB’s transition from hospice chaplain to construction leader was inspired by a desire to build something lasting with his father—and for his family.

Growth Requires Sacrifice: Whether it's financial tradeoffs or letting go of a likable employee, the hard choices are what move the needle.

Tough Conversations Build Stronger Teams: Accountability is a form of respect. JB shares how learning to communicate expectations has strengthened company culture.

Partnerships > Being a Jack-of-All-Trades: The GCM team succeeds by identifying what to bring in-house versus where to partner—and why that decision protects both quality and values.

Prepare the Next Generation the Right Way: JB’s approach to generational succession emphasizes humility, work ethic, and earning your seat.

Timeline Summary:

[00:00] - JB’s background in ministry and the transition into his father’s business

[02:00] - Early lessons from hospice and the decision to prioritize family legacy

[05:00] - Why they built multiple companies under one construction umbrella

[07:00] - The value of trade partners and staying out of “jack-of-all-trades” thinking

[10:00] - Tough conversations and client-first bidding in a low-cost industry

[13:00] - How the wrong hire—or keeping the wrong person—can slow growth

[16:00] - Expanding into new markets and preparing for leadership transition

[18:00] - JB’s personal values and how they shape leadership

[21:00] - Real talk: making hard choices, letting people go, and learning as you grow

[26:00] - Passing the baton: how JB plans to prepare his kids for potential succession

Links & Resources:

www.linkedin.com/in/jeremysblount

In this episode of Your Business Your Next Level, I sit down with DeShaun Sellers, a real estate investor, Air Force veteran, and operator of multiple residential assisted living (RAL) homes. What started as a way to invest in real estate with more cash flow turned into a powerful mission—providing seniors with dignified, compassionate care inspired by his own grandmother’s experience in a traditional nursing home. DeShaun shares how he scaled from one property to multiple homes in North Carolina, why the RAL model is recession-resistant, and how he leverages both franchising and real estate ownership to grow efficiently.

We also discuss what families should look for when choosing a care facility, red flags to avoid, and how DeShaun uses data-driven site selection to build profitable, sustainable businesses that serve communities. This is a must-listen for real estate investors, entrepreneurs, and anyone curious about how business and purpose can intersect in senior care.

Key Takeaways:

Residential Assisted Living Combines Cash Flow with Compassion: DeShaun shares how RALs can outperform traditional rentals while providing an essential service to aging communities.

Staffing with Intention Changes Everything: Lower caregiver-to-resident ratios create a better environment for both staff and residents—resulting in better outcomes and stronger retention.

Franchising Accelerated His Growth: Having the right franchise support gave DeShaun access to systems, documentation, and compliance help—freeing him to scale faster and smarter.

Site Selection Matters More Than You Think: DeShaun now uses census data, income levels, and proximity to large healthcare systems to ensure every property is positioned for success.

Do the Tour—And Talk to the Staff: Families should go beyond surface-level marketing when touring assisted living homes. The true test is talking with caregivers who interact with residents daily.

Timeline Summary:

[00:00] - DeShaun’s journey from the Air Force to real estate and residential assisted living

[02:00] - Inspired by his grandmother’s experience in a nursing home

[05:00] - Why smaller homes and lower staff ratios create better outcomes

[08:00] - How the real estate model behind RALs drives long-term wealth

[10:00] - The power of franchising and how it helped him avoid costly mistakes

[13:00] - What to ask when touring a facility—and the red flags to watch for

[16:00] - Lessons from real estate and how to select the right neighborhoods

[18:00] - Understanding pricing, private pay models, and market demand

[21:00] - Focus on what you can control—and don’t try to reinvent everything

[23:00] - Final thoughts on aligning purpose and profit in business

Links & Resources:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/deshaun-sellers-9131605b/

In this episode of Your Business Your Next Level, I sit down with Leonard Russ, principal partner of Bayberry Healthcare and nationally recognized voice in long-term care policy and geriatric health. With decades of experience in both healthcare operations and public policy, Len shares how he transitioned from a successful career in journalism to becoming a key figure shaping Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement policy in the U.S.

We explore the growing challenges in residential and institutional healthcare—from staffing shortages and underfunded entitlement programs to the misconceptions families often face when navigating long-term care decisions. Len offers invaluable insight into how systemic issues in healthcare policy affect both providers and patients, and what business leaders in healthcare need to understand to deliver quality care while maintaining financial sustainability.

Key Takeaways:

Leadership Means Putting Frontline Staff First: Bayberry Healthcare operates with an “inverted pyramid,” placing caregivers at the top of the organization because they’re the closest to patients—and the heart of quality care.

Residential Care Is Not One-Size-Fits-All: Many people think long-term care only happens in facilities, but hybrid models and home care options are growing—though often limited by public policy and reimbursement structures.

Medicaid Reimbursement Is Broken: In states like New York, Medicaid reimbursement can cover less than half the actual cost of care, putting enormous strain on providers and creating long-term sustainability issues.

Staffing Is at a Crisis Point: COVID-19 pushed many caregivers out of the profession, and the pipeline of new talent isn’t keeping up. Providers are being forced to scale back admissions despite rising demand.

Choosing a Provider? Visit in Person: Ratings systems are helpful, but nothing replaces physically visiting a facility, talking to staff, and observing care firsthand.

Timeline Summary:

[00:00] - Len shares his unique journey from journalism to healthcare leadership

[03:00] - The philosophy behind Bayberry’s patient-first, staff-centered model

[06:00] - Home care vs. institutional care: what patients and families need to know

[10:00] - The staffing crisis in long-term care and how providers are adapting

[13:00] - Medicaid’s broken funding model and its ripple effects across the system

[17:00] - The shift from long-term to short-term care in skilled nursing facilities

[20:00] - Why choosing a care facility requires more than online research

[24:00] - Len’s personal story of surviving cancer and how it deepened his compassion as a leader

[28:00] - The systemic challenges that affect everyone—from providers to private pay patients

[30:00] - Final thoughts and what to expect in Len’s follow-up episode on data and strategy in healthcare

Links & Resources:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/len-russ-41a13116/

In this episode of Your Business Your Next Level, I sit down with Paul Hamburger, a seasoned CEO with a track record of transforming major companies like T-Mobile, Telecom New Zealand, and Cable & Wireless into global market leaders. Now at the helm of Admiral Sports, Paul shares how he’s bringing a legacy British sportswear brand into the modern era through cutting-edge innovation, vertical integration, and customer-first thinking.

We dive into how Paul has applied hard-earned lessons from telecom and pharmaceuticals to the apparel space, why listening to your customers is more powerful than any strategy tool, and how Admiral is disrupting a market dominated by giants through speed, customization, and sustainability. Whether you're running a startup or scaling a global brand, Paul's insights on leadership, execution, and innovation are practical and transformative.

Key Takeaways:

Start with the Customer, Not the Product: Paul transformed Admiral by eliminating customer pain points—no minimums, no product expiration, consistent sizing, and full customization.

Speed is a Differentiator: While competitors take 45–120 days, Admiral delivers fully custom kits in 7–30 days thanks to vertical integration and proprietary software.

Innovation Is Simpler Than You Think: Paul proves that asking real customers the right questions is more valuable than overanalyzing or relying solely on frameworks.

Don’t Regret—Act Fast: Insight without action is worthless. Paul shares personal lessons in missed financial opportunities and the importance of seizing the moment.

Empower Teams Through Clarity and Trust: Putting people first—both customers and employees—has been a core driver of Paul’s leadership and business success.

Timeline Summary:

[00:00] - Paul’s journey from pharma to telecom to owning Admiral Sports

[03:00] - Reviving brands like T-Mobile and applying lessons to apparel

[06:00] - Innovation through listening: how convenience wins over big names

[10:00] - Creating Admiral ID and customizing gear at scale

[13:00] - Why vertical integration gives Admiral a massive edge

[16:00] - The simple secret: listen, build around the customer, and deliver

[20:00] - Manufacturing in the Dominican Republic and shipping from Miami

[22:00] - Sustainability, lean production, and long-term brand loyalty

[24:00] - Balancing legacy sports heritage with modern athleisure and global markets

[27:00] - Why value > cost: customers pay more when they see the difference

[30:00] - Missed investments, fast action, and leadership takeaways from tech

[33:00] - Final insights: Put people first—in leadership, in product, and in business

Links & Resources:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-hamburger-386a566/

http://www.admiral-sports.com