7.28 – Steve Marcinuk – Intelligent Relations

Rising Tide Startups

#Business #Rising Tide #Careers #Entrepreneur #Marketing

51:57

On the Season 2 debut of Lost Cultures: Living Legacies , we travel to Bermuda, an Atlantic island whose history spans centuries and continents. Once uninhabited, Bermuda became a vital stop in transatlantic trade, a maritime stronghold, and a cultural crossroads shaped by African, European, Caribbean, and Native American influences. Guests Dr. Kristy Warren and Dr. Edward Harris trace its transformation from an uninhabited island to a strategic outpost shaped by shipwrecks, colonization, the transatlantic slave trade, and the rise and fall of empires. Plus, former Director of Tourism Gary Phillips shares the story of the Gombey tradition, a vibrant performance art rooted in resistance, migration, and cultural fusion. Together, they reveal how Bermuda’s layered past continues to shape its people, culture, and identity today. You can also find us online at ⁠travelandleisure.com/lostcultures Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

2 years ago 36:24

MP3•Episode home

Get ready for another episode of Rising Tide Startups, hosted by Kevin Prewett. This time, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Steve Marcinuk, an AI Entrepreneur and seasoned founder who courageously pursued his dreams in South America, leaving behind the conventional post-Ivy grind. We explore the untapped potential of entrepreneurs and the game-changing capabilities of AI. We also discussed the importance of putting plans into action rather than just having ideas, the resilience and preparedness required for building a successful business and uncovering the innate qualities that make entrepreneurs thrive. Grab some coffee while we dive into the exciting world of entrepreneurship and the transformative power of AI. A few highlights: The drive gene: this motivates entrepreneurs to keep going, exploring, and pushing boundaries. Planning is key to success, and that ideas are cheap but execution is everything. Preparedness is Key: take preparedness seriously and be ready for whatever comes your way. Even if you're not the smartest person in the room, you can still be the most prepared. Resilience and Pivoting: entrepreneurs should not take failure as a sign of defeat, but rather as an opportunity to learn and grow. Keep trying, construct tests, and to collect data and feedback. Intelligent Relations: a groundbreaking platform that revolutionizes PR through technology, empowering leaders and brands to effortlessly generate media coverage. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Catch up with Steve Marcinuk here: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenmarcinuk Intelligent Relations: https://intelligentrelations.com If you enjoyed the show, make sure to follow, subscribe and please leave us a 5-star rating. Your company or brand needs its own branded podcast. PodBrand Media is an innovative and affordable way to generate new leads and create repurposable content. Learn more at https://Podbrandmedia.com Get your personal podcast off the ground with "How to Start a Podcast in 24 Hours" course by David Ezell. Learn podcasting essentials and save 20% by using the code RISING at realdavidezell.com/courses . Don't wait, start your podcast today! If you enjoyed the show, make sure to follow, subscribe and please leave us a 5-star rating.

300 episodes

Rising Tide Startups

7.28 – Steve Marcinuk – Intelligent Relations

Rising Tide Startups

published 2 years ago

MP3•Episode home

300 episodes

#Business #Rising Tide #Careers #Entrepreneur #Marketing

All episodes

Rising Tide Startups

1
9.07 – Alan Pentz – Owner Institute 37:49

5 weeks ago37:49

37:49

The business is growing. You’re overwhelmed. Welcome to the small business black hole. For Alan Pence, founder of the Owner Institute, building a multi-million dollar company didn’t come from working more hours or saying yes to everything. It came from realizing that what got him to $1M in revenue was exactly what was keeping him from going further. Like many founders, Alan hit the wall. The point where the systems broke down, burnout started creeping in. That wall? He calls it the “small business black hole.” In this episode of Rising Tide Startups, we sit down with Alan to unpack the patterns he’s seen across hundreds of businesses. He explains why burnout, blurred vision, and stalled growth are symptoms of a deeper issue: the business is built around the founder instead of beyond them. Alan shares how to shift from being stuck in the day-to-day to building a company that scales sustainably—with clear systems, empowered leadership, and a renewed sense of purpose. Whether you're hitting a revenue ceiling, burned out from doing everything yourself, or wondering if your business is building a life you want—this episode is for you. It’s honest, practical, and filled with the kind of insights you’ll wish you had five years ago. Key Takeaways: Founders often become the bottleneck. Many businesses stall because the owner is doing too much or holding on too tightly. Start with personal vision. You need to know what kind of life you want before you build a business to support it. You can't scale if you try to do everything. At each stage, the owner must shift roles, delegate, and level up skills. Hire for what drains you. Free up your time and energy by handing off tasks that wear you down. Understanding your numbers helps you grow without guessing or overspending. Common Barriers at Different Stages $1M Stage: Founder is doing too much. Needs to focus on sales and delegate everything else. $2–5M Stage: Growth requires key operational hires to handle increased complexity. $5–10M Stage: Need to build a real leadership team with specialized functions (sales, ops, HR, etc.). $10M+ Stage: Owner must extract themselves from what they’re best at and structure scalable systems. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Alan: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanpentz/ Owner Institute: https://www.ownerinstitute.com/ Closing thought: “Small businesses stay small for a reason. That reason is the owner.” Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsors: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024! Podbrand Media - Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help. Affordable and effective in content creation and lead generation!…

Rising Tide Startups

1
9.06 – Heintze Malack – The Twentieth 34:32

6 weeks ago34:32

34:32

What happens when you follow your gut, not a roadmap? For Heintze Malack—known to her friends and followers as Heinz—entrepreneurship didn’t start with a business degree or a polished pitch deck. It started with paper boats and a big imagination. Now the founder of the fashion brand The Twentieth, Heinz has built a business from scratch by turning scrolls into sales and ideas into brands. Through smart content, bold storytelling, and Meta Ads that actually work, she’s crafted a community-powered brand with viral moments and sold-out launches, all without following a script. In this new episode of The Rising Tide Startups, we sit down with Heinzte to talk about taking chances on things without guaranteeing they’ll work. Heinz shares how faith, curiosity, and emotion have guided every leap, from a spontaneous three-month trip that turned into a permanent move to launching a brand without investors or industry connections. She talks TikTok virality, launching campaigns that convert, and the art of balancing remote work with her dream of opening a community bakery. This episode is full of laughter, life lessons, and honest reflections on impostor syndrome, grit, and staying creative even when things feel uncertain. Whether you’re a founder, a dreamer, or somewhere in between, Heinz’s story will remind you that it’s okay to start before you feel ready and that purpose often shows up when you least expect it. Key Takeaways: Entrepreneurial spirit often shows up early. Childhood moments of creativity and initiative can reveal a future in business. Bold moves create momentum. Taking risks before you're fully ready often leads to the biggest breakthroughs. Career pivots start with curiosity. New passions emerge when you step into unfamiliar tasks and stay open to change. Authentic storytelling builds connection. People relate more to real, behind-the-scenes journeys than to polished marketing. The best products solve your problems. If you've felt the pain point, chances are others have too. Remote businesses rely on local trust. Strong, on-the-ground partnerships are key to sustainable operations. "Start before you're ready and refine later. Waiting for perfect conditions can stall your progress. Action is what builds momentum. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Heintze: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hcvmalack/ The Twentieth: https://www.thetwentieth.co/ Closing thought: “Success isn’t about having it all planned out—it’s about showing up, staying curious, and letting your story lead the way.” Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsors: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024! Podbrand Media - Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help. Affordable and effective in content creation and lead generation!…

Rising Tide Startups

1
9.05 – Mike Faraci – Red Button Media 48:38

8 weeks ago48:38

48:38

What if you could grow a business without ads or cold calls? That’s exactly what Mike Faraci set out to prove and did. Now the Founder & CEO of Red Button Media, Mike helps brands rise above the noise with authentic, story-driven video content. But his path didn’t start with a marketing budget or a polished campaign. It started with one camera, a clear message, and a commitment to post on LinkedIn for 500 days straight. In this episode of the Rising Tide Startups, we talk with Mike about how he built a media company from scratch without spending a dime on ads or picking up the phone for cold outreach. Mike shares how he developed systems around strategic content, how to speak to a “Target Viewer Persona,” and why trust-building starts with showing up as yourself online. This isn’t just a conversation about content strategy, it’s about discipline, self-belief, and doing the unscalable work when no one’s paying attention. Whether you're a solopreneur, startup founder, or just tired of growth tactics that feel fake, Mike’s story is a reminder that showing up with purpose and consistency can still beat the algorithm. Key Takeaways: Consistency beats perfection. It’s not about being flawless, it’s about being there. Show up regularly and let the momentum build. Content replaces cold calls. Done right, consistent content creation brings in warm, inbound leads—no ads, no chasing. Trust is built through familiarity. Every scroll-by impression adds up. People trust faces they recognize. Be visible. The cost of silence is high. If you're not showing up, your competitors are. Inaction has a price. Put a face to the brand. Personal content outperforms faceless brands. Relatability wins. Capture attention instantly. You’ve got only 3–5 seconds to lead with value or lose the moment. If you're not creating content in 2025, you're already behind. Organic visibility isn’t optional anymore, it’s the baseline. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Mike: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mikefaraci Red Button Media:: https://www.hittheredbutton.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themikefaraci/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/mikefaraci Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mike.faraci Closing thought: “If you’re not building a founder-led brand, you’re leaving trust, visibility, and opportunity on the table. Mike proves that showing up consistently isn’t optional—it’s the new competitive edge.” Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsors: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024! Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help. Affordable and effective in content creation and lead generation!…

Rising Tide Startups

1
9.04 – Ken Mack – Acquire.fi 42:35

11 weeks ago42:35

42:35

Ken Mack doesn’t follow the traditional path of entrepreneurship—he skips the startup phase entirely. Instead of building from scratch, he focuses on acquiring and scaling existing businesses, often using little to none of his own capital. In this episode of the Rising Tide Startups podcast, we chat with Ken Mack, an investor, also known as “The Eccentric Entrepreneur” due to his unconventional approach to building wealth. Ken shares his strategy of acquiring established companies, from his beginnings in Glasgow to managing a diverse portfolio of businesses worldwide. Ken dives into the tactics that have helped him scale rapidly, focusing on the power of leveraged buyouts (LBOs) and seller financing to minimize personal financial risk. He emphasizes the importance of tracking key metrics like Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC) and Lifetime Value (LTV) to ensure sustainable growth. Beyond financial strategies, Ken discusses the mindset shifts required for success—embracing discomfort, thinking long-term, and continuously learning. He also highlights the importance of strategic networking for finding new opportunities. Ken's journey is a powerful reminder that wealth is built by seizing opportunities where others see obstacles and that the right mindset can turn even the most unconventional paths into success stories. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: Established businesses are safer bets. Proven cash flow and systems reduce the risk compared to starting from scratch. Leverage other people’s money (OPM). Using LBOs (leveraging buyouts) and seller financing allows for business acquisitions without tying up personal capital. Target retiring business owners. Baby boomers represent a goldmine of acquisition opportunities. Cash flow is king. Focus on cash flow over profit margins for sustainable growth and debt management. Efficiency and remote management. Building reliable teams and systems enables managing multiple businesses from afar. Mindset is everything. Getting comfortable with risk and embracing the unknown is essential for success. Entrepreneurship is a ‘lifestyle,’ not just a career choice. Success comes from discomfort and pushing limits. Buy businesses at 1x free cash flow, and sell at 2–3x EBITDA. This increases valuation before exiting. Start small, gain experience, and build networks. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Ken: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenmackofficial Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/KenMack/ Instagram:: https://www.instagram.com/kenmack/ Website:: https://www.kenmack.com/ Closing thought: “You don’t need to reinvent the wheel—buy an existing business and scale it.” Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsors: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2025! Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help. Affordable and effective in content creation and lead generation!…

Rising Tide Startups

1
9.03 – Will Milliken – SwoopScoop 29:03

13 weeks ago29:03

29:03

This Episode - Turning an Unlikely Business into a Multi-Million Dollar Success Meet Will Milliken, president of a fast-growing dog waste removal company and founder of the President of Swoop Scoop® and founder of Poop Scoop Millionaire™. What started as a small side hustle has become a booming business with multiple locations and a thriving online community for aspiring entrepreneurs. Will shares how he transitioned from digital marketing to home services, why the pet waste removal industry took off, and the key strategies that helped him scale. With a focus on exceptional service and customer care, Swoop Scoop® has grown into a leading company serving thousands of satisfied clients. We also cover the marketing strategies that work (and don’t), building a standout brand, and the importance of fast customer response times. Plus, Will shares the surprising lessons he learned from a failed partnership with Pizza Hut and how he’s preparing for national expansion. Key Takeaways: Standardized, flat-rate pricing works best: customers prefer knowing costs upfront. Fast response time is critical: answering inquiries quickly sets businesses apart in home services. Professional branding (uniforms, truck wraps, CRM systems) increases trust and allows for premium pricing. Scaling starts with predictable lead generation. The biggest bottleneck is acquiring customers consistently. Marketing experiments matter. Facebook ads, Google SEO, and wrapped trucks work best, while some partnerships (like pizza box ads) miss the mark. Standardized operations make scaling easier. A clear system for hiring, training, and customer acquisition makes franchising a real possibility. Track Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC) vs. Customer Lifetime Value (LTV): understanding these numbers earlier could have cut growth time in half. Anticipate bottlenecks as you scale: hiring, vehicle acquisition, and equipment logistics become challenges as the business grows. If you don’t know how to acquire customers, your business will struggle. If you're not willing to start a poop scooping business, you're probably not going to start any business. Will’s journey proves that even the most unexpected businesses can be wildly profitable with the right systems and mindset. Ready to think outside the box (or the yard)? This episode will change the way you look at service businesses. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Will: Swoop Scoop: https://swoopscoop.com Poop Scoop: https://www.skool.com/poop-scoop-millionaire LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-milliken Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Scoop-Start Blog: https://scoopstart.com/ Closing thought: “Big opportunities come from solving everyday problems. Price smart, systemize, and scale—success will follow.” Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsors: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024! Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help. Affordable and effective in content creation and lead generation!…

Rising Tide Startups

1
9.02 – Mohamed “Mo” Ahmed – Boundless Founder Community 1:13:24

19 weeks ago1:13:24

1:13:24

How Failing Forward can become a blueprint for entrepreneurial success! Mohamed "Mo"Ahmed, founder of the Boundless Founder community and author of The Inside Out Entrepreneur, shares his journey from a corporate career at Microsoft and AWS to navigating the unpredictable world of startups. After starting his first company in 2017, Mohamed faced tough challenges—including a failed acquisition—that pushed him to rethink his approach to leadership, resilience, and mindset. In this episode of the Rising Tide Startups Podcast, Mohamed talks about how he handled setbacks, pivoted his business, and managed the emotional ups and downs of entrepreneurship. He also explains how his passion for helping others led him to build a community that supports technical founders with the tools and guidance they need to succeed. Through his experiences, Mohamed has learned how to turn failures into opportunities to grow and build something meaningful. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, this episode offers practical advice on staying resilient, finding your purpose, and making progress even when things get tough. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: The right mindset—resilience, balance, and adaptability—is the most valuable asset for an entrepreneur. A mental conditioning framework can help entrepreneurs understand their journey beyond business metrics, develop mental toughness, and maintain perspective during challenges. Calculating risks and clear thinking under pressure help to prevent mistakes stemming from overconfidence and fear-driven decision-making. Practical tools for resilience allow entrepreneurs to bounce back from setbacks and ensure long-term sustainability. Entrepreneurs must condition loved ones emotionally and financially prepared for challenges. Building and maintaining a strong support system is crucial, including balancing family life with business demands and finding the right mentors for guidance. Entrepreneurship is a balance of chasing success while fearing failure. These opposing forces drive innovation and personal growth. Entrepreneurs need a robust ecosystem—mentors, peers, and supportive families—to sustain them through challenges. Entrepreneurs should ensure their self-worth isn’t entirely tied to their venture’s success to avoid burnout and remain employable. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Mo: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohamedfahmed/ Mohamed F Ahmed: http://mohamedfahmed.com/ X: http://www.twitter.com/MohamedFAhmed Special Offer for Listeners FREE Rising Tide Exclusive Bundle ($147 value): The Mindset Guide Mental Robustness and Resiliency Workbook Special Chapter: "Recovery Strategies After Setbacks" Available at: www.boundlessfounder.co/risingtide-special 25% discount on Boundless Founder Community membership using code: RISINGTIDE25 Book Reader's Package: Access to monthly group coaching sessions Exclusive entrepreneurial resilience assessment tool Private community access Register at: www.boundlessfounder.co/risingtide-bonus Closing thought: “Entrepreneurship is about building something bigger than yourself, not just escaping a job or chasing wealth.” Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsors: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024! Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help.…

Rising Tide Startups

1
9.01 – Tekla Tskhvediani – Career Mentor – Tekla Toppings 38:37

22 weeks ago38:37

38:37

In this episode of the Rising Tide Startups Podcast, Tekla Tskhvediani shares how she went from Georgia’s corporate hospitality industry to creating a location-independent career in Bali. She talks about what led her to take that leap, the challenges she faced, and how she built a career that gives her both freedom and fulfillment. Tekla explains why the traditional job-hunting approach, like sending out resumes and hoping for the best, doesn’t work anymore. She shares how showcasing your value, thinking outside the box, and aligning your strengths with market needs can open new doors. From her own journey to the lessons she now teaches as a career mentor, Tekla offers advice for anyone looking to create a career on their own terms. If you’ve ever thought about working remotely, switching careers, or just designing a work life that fits you better, this episode is for you. Tekla’s approach is all about flexibility, creativity, and making career choices that align with the life you want. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: Offering free value and fostering genuine connections can establish trust and credibility before monetizing your expertise. Confidence in pricing and business growth comes from proven results rather than vague affirmations. Clients benefit more from specific, actionable guidance that reduces decision fatigue than from generic advice. A successful coaching business must balance scalability with maintaining personalized, high-quality support. Traditional job applications are outdated—standing out requires creativity, personal branding, and authenticity. Personal career struggles can become a powerful asset when helping others navigate similar challenges. Sustainable business growth relies on consistent value delivery and authentic relationship-building, rather than aggressive marketing. Overcoming mental barriers and self-imposed limitations is often the biggest step toward career transformation. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Tekla Tskhvediani: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tekla-tskhvediani-24b81a105 Website: https://pillar.io/teklatoppings Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teklatoppingstestimonials Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsors: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024! Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help. Affordable and effective content creation and lead generation!…

Rising Tide Startups

1
8.22 – Kevin Prewett – 2024 Recap Episode – Host of Rising Tide Startups 6:27

23 weeks ago6:27

6:27

Today, the final day of 2024, we turn the mic around and close out a banner year by hearing from our host. Kevin Prewett is the founder and CEO of Rising Tide Startups Podcast and Podbrandmedia.com. With a passion for empowering entrepreneurs and brands, Kevin has built a platform dedicated to helping startup founders grow and scale their businesses through the power of podcasting and media. As a seasoned podcaster and media strategist, he combines his expertise in content creation with his commitment to fostering innovation and community in the startup ecosystem. Through his work at Podbrandmedia.com, Kevin assists businesses in leveraging podcasts as a powerful tool for marketing, branding, and audience engagement. Kevin shares a short recap of 2024 and looks ahead at some exciting opportunities for 2025. Thanks again for playing your part in "helping all boats rise in a rising tide!"…

Rising Tide Startups

1
8.21 – Hailey Brooke Weiss – Power Move Marketing 38:00

24 weeks ago38:00

38:00

In this episode of Rising Tide Startups Podcast, Hailey Brooke Weiss, founder and CEO of Power Move Marketing, shares how her journey from collegiate volleyball captain to marketing agency leader has shaped her approach to business and leadership. With a passion for adaptability and innovation, Hailey has built a remote-first agency that offers tailored, integrated solutions to startups, acting as an in-house marketing partner for businesses. Hailey reveals how her team navigates industry shifts, from leveraging AI to adjusting to new trends and legislation, while balancing creativity and analytics to help clients achieve tangible results. As a leader of a 30+ person remote team, she emphasizes the importance of trust, delegation, and letting creative people be creative, drawing from her athletic background to focus on accountability and leading by example. This episode provides practical advice on leadership, marketing trends, and the mindset needed to grow a successful business. If you're looking to elevate your marketing game and learn from a leader who blends strategy with heart, this conversation with Hailey Brooke Weiss is a must-listen. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: Implementing an omni-channel marketing strategy across TikTok, Instagram, and LinkedIn creates multiple sustainable revenue streams for business growth. Establishing clear project parameters while avoiding micromanagement empowers creative teams to deliver exceptional client results. When addressing challenges, leading with curiosity instead of criticism transforms team dynamics and improves problem-solving efficiency. Converting major household brands through consistent social media content demonstrates how digital presence drives significant business acquisition. Eliminating long-term contracts and maintaining service flexibility helps retain startup clients in rapidly changing market conditions. Focusing on target audience needs rather than industry specialization enables successful client acquisition across diverse business sectors. Building a fully remote team culture based on trust and autonomy creates high employee retention and increased productivity. Leveraging specialist expertise within the team rather than handling everything personally accelerates agency scaling and client satisfaction. Maintaining an authentic social media presence and consistent messaging across platforms strengthens brand credibility and drives organic growth. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Hailey Brooke Weiss: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haileybrookeweiss/ Power Move Marketing: https://powermovemarketing.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haileybrooke8 Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsors: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2025! Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help. Affordable and effective in content creation and lead generation!…

Rising Tide Startups

1
8.20 – Jason Schappert – MooLa 38:14

28 weeks ago38:14

38:14

How does a flight instructor turn financial struggles into a groundbreaking fintech? Jason Schappert, founder of Moola, shares his journey from teaching aviation to empowering financial literacy through innovative fintech solutions. From being a college dropout to building a multi-million-dollar online flight school, Jason turned challenges into opportunities and now helps others navigate their own paths to success. In this episode of the Rising Tide Startups podcast, Jason talks about the lessons he learned from running and selling his aviation business, and how he found markets that needed help to create Moola, a platform made to make personal finances easier. He gives useful tips on finding your niche, trying out business ideas, and building a successful business. Jason has broken down the complex into simple, actionable steps, and empowered countless aspiring entrepreneurs and everyday individuals to reach their goals. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: Leverage early adopter platforms like YouTube and TikTok to build a loyal audience and validate business concepts. Clean and professional financial record-keeping is crucial for attracting potential investors and acquisition opportunities. Focus on serving an underserved market demographic by understanding their specific challenges and communication styles. Automate savings and financial processes to make complex financial management more accessible and user-friendly. Embrace incremental progress by prioritizing consistent small wins over seeking unrealistic overnight success. Social media is a powerful tool for market research, audience engagement, and viral marketing strategies. Build products that simplify complex topics and make intimidating processes (like investing) more approachable for younger generations. Personal branding and storytelling can be powerful differentiators in crowded market spaces. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Jason Schappert: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonschappert/ Moola: https://moo.la/ Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsors: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024! Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help. Affordable and effective in content creation and lead generation!…

Rising Tide Startups

1
8.19 – Bradley Hamner – Blueprint OS 34:32

30 weeks ago34:32

34:32

In this episode of the Rising Tide Startups Podcast, Bradley Hamner, founder of Blueprint OS and host of “Above The Business”, shares how small business owners can scale sustainably by designing systems that drive growth and efficiency, and free up their time. Having experienced firsthand the shift from burnout to balance, Bradley introduces his SCALE framework—Sustainable Revenue, Consistent Growth, Ample Time Away, Leverage, and Efficient Operations—which helps entrepreneurs grow without sacrificing their well-being. Bradley explains how shifting from being the “rainmaker” to the “architect” of your business allows you to create systems that operate independently. He highlights the importance of taking strategic breaks to recharge, arguing that time away can actually fuel long-term growth. Finally, Bradley encourages owners to work “above” their business, dedicating time each week to strategic thinking and long-term planning. His insights empower small business owners to break free from the daily grind and build businesses that thrive independently. Through the SCALE framework, entrepreneurs gain practical strategies to boost revenue, achieve consistent growth, and reclaim their time for strategic focus. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: Personal development is key to business growth, helping entrepreneurs scale and launch new ventures successfully. A practical framework for scaling businesses focuses on sustainable growth, leadership, and reaching revenue milestones. Dedicating time away from daily tasks for strategic thinking boosts decision-making and satisfaction. Executive assistants and efficient operating systems allow entrepreneurs to focus on growth instead of daily operations. The Rule of 40 combines growth and profitability percentages to maintain a healthy balance for sustainable business success. Taking time off helps business owners improve their personal well-being and business health. A clear roadmap and community support provide guidance and shared learning for business owners with similar goals. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Bradley Hamner: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradleyhamner/ BlueprintOS: https://www.blueprintos.com/ Above The Business: https://www.abovethebusiness.co/ Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsors: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024! Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help. Affordable and effective in content creation and lead generation!…

Rising Tide Startups

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8.18 – Nile Frater – Masse SEO 33:21

32 weeks ago33:21

33:21

Building a niche website is one thing, but turning it into a thriving SEO agency? That’s a whole different game. On this episode of the Rising Tide Startups podcast, Kevin Prewett sits down with Nile Frater, founder of Masse SEO and former owner of NoCode.Tech. Nile shares his journey from creating a no-code tech site to selling it and launching his next big venture in SEO. He dives into the highs and lows of selling a business—navigating buyer interest, tough negotiations, and ultimately sealing the deal. With 8+ years in the no-code space, Nile has tested over 250 platforms and taught businesses of all sizes. He also explores how AI has evolved in content creation, helping writers overcome creative blocks and produce more content faster, though the balance between facts and opinions still poses challenges. Nile doesn’t shy away from discussing the challenges of scaling Masse SEO, revealing key strategies for growth while maintaining quality. Whether you're into SEO, content creation, or curious about the impact of AI, this episode offers plenty of actionable insights. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: AI tools can help writers break through creative blocks and ramp up content production, but they still fall short when it comes to handling subjective content. To scale without losing quality, systemizing your operations is a must, especially when you're handling high volumes of content. Selling a business comes with its own rollercoaster—strategic negotiations and emotional highs that every entrepreneur can learn from. AI is great for handling factual information, but when it comes to producing nuanced, high-quality content, human expertise is still essential. To grow your business and keep clients happy, structured operations and a solid support system are key. Scaling your SEO strategy takes high-volume content publishing and a clear market focus to succeed. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Nile Frater: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nile-frater-b1772370/ Masse SEO: https://www.masse.marketing/ NoCode.Tech: https://www.nocode.tech/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/nile Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsors: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024! Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help. Affordable and effective in content creation and lead generation!…

Rising Tide Startups

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8.17 – Bilal Ararou – Nuelink 33:19

35 weeks ago33:19

33:19

Can a single tool grow into a thriving business with thousands of loyal customers? In this episode of the Rising Tide Startups podcast, host Kevin Prewett sits down with Bilal Ararou, the visionary founder of Nuelink, to unpack his journey from a freelance web designer to the creator of an innovative social media automation platform. Bilal reveals how Nuelink, originally built to streamline his agency's social media tasks, quickly evolved into a robust tool packed with AI-driven features that simplify everything from scheduling posts to automating podcast updates. What sets Nuelink apart is Bilal's ability to spot a real need in the market. After earlier ventures failed due to lack of demand, he hit the mark this time by solving a problem faced by countless businesses. Nuelink's cutting-edge features, like automated content creation and task automation for podcast updates and Google reviews, have transformed the social media management landscape. Bilal's entrepreneurial roots trace back to his childhood when he sold marbles and rented out his Game Boy. Now, he's on a mission to build Morocco's first unicorn company, proving that world-class innovation can emerge from anywhere. His story is a powerful reminder of how solving real-world problems can lead to groundbreaking success that transcends borders. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: Using AI-driven automation in social media tools can simplify managing a business’s online presence. Validating market demand through initial experiments and waitlists ensures product development aligns with real user needs, fostering confidence in further investment. Learning from past failures by analyzing the lack of demand can shape more effective approaches to product development and market fit. Implementing a structured hiring process focused on practical skills rather than resumes ensures a capable team that aligns well with organizational needs. Using insights from top business books can improve operations and management strategies, leading to ongoing growth. Engaging with niche communities and forming partnerships can boost product visibility and early user traction. Planning product expansions based on customer feedback drives continuous improvement and long-term industry relevance. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Bilal Ararou: LinkedIn: https://ma.linkedin.com/in/bilalararou Nuelink: https://nuelink.com/ Kreatinc: https://www.kreatinc.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bilalararou/ Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsors: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024! Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help. Affordable and effective content creation and lead generation!…

Rising Tide Startups

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8.16 – James Pietruszynsk – SoulSight 32:46

37 weeks ago32:46

32:46

James Pietruszynsk, CEO of SoulSight, brings a unique perspective to branding. He believes that effective brands are built on genuine emotional connections and a deep understanding of human behavior. James recognizes the challenge of balancing innovation with brand consistency, emphasizing the importance of meaningful changes that enhance consumer experiences rather than superficial alterations. At SoulSight, James fosters an environment that encourages both strategic thinking and creativity. He values collaboration and honest feedback, grounding his approach in behavioral analysis and empathy. His expertise in strategic insight and design has led to successful partnerships with major companies including Kraft Heinz, Coca-Cola, Molson Coors, General Mills, Pfizer, Unilever, and Hershey's. James' work has garnered recognition from various industry publications and awards programs, including Graphis, How, Print, Communication Arts, and Pentawards. Despite these accolades, James remains focused on his core mission: understanding human behavior and using those insights to create brands that resonate authentically with people. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: Emotional connections are crucial for brand resonance. Brands that effectively tap into emotions forge stronger consumer relationships. Authentic brand identities stem from understanding human truths. Effective branding combines strategy, innovation, and research to create cohesive, emotionally aligned narratives. Successful branding balances innovation with core brand essence. Meaningful changes should enhance consumer experiences without risking brand identity. Empathy is key to understanding both brand and audience needs. Brands should evolve with cultural shifts to maintain relevance. Global brand expansion requires understanding and collaboration. Lessons from major branding organizations can guide work with larger brands. Leaders should encourage growth, accept mistakes, and promote continuous evolution for competitiveness and innovation. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with James Pietruszynski: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-pietruszynski-4a30836/ SoulSight: https://soulsight.com/ Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsor: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024!…

Rising Tide Startups

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8.15 – Linh Podetti – Outsouring Angel 30:57

39 weeks ago30:57