Advertise on podcast: Inside the Wolf’s Den an Entrepreneurial Journey with Shawn and Joni Wolfswinkel

On this episode of Inside The Wolf’s Den, Shawn and Joni Wolfswinkel put their younger operator selves on trial for the business decisions that looked responsible in the moment but quietly cost them later. From bargain hires that became expensive lessons to loyal team members kept too long, they unpack why “safe” choices can drain cash, morale, client trust, and momentum. This is not a highlight reel or a polished success story. It is a candid, self-deprecating performance review of the calls they would fire themselves for today, complete with the real cost and the fix they would make now. As a married couple building property management companies and a virtual staffing agency, Shawn and Joni dig into the people, systems, money, growth, and marriage mistakes that shaped the way they lead. They talk about hiring for cheap instead of fit, being the bottleneck, delegating chaos, taking work back too quickly, and finally building accountability through EOS-style tools like scorecards, Rocks, and clearer seats. They also examine the trap of chasing door count over profitability, underpricing to win business, saying yes to the wrong clients, and confusing top-line growth with a healthier company. The most personal lessons come from the intersection of marriage and business: late-night decisions made on the couch, blurred roles, dinner-table conflict, and the boundaries they now protect so the relationship stays bigger than the companies. If you lead a team, own a business, work with your spouse, or suspect one “smart” decision is costing you more than you admit, this episode gives you the questions to ask, the numbers to watch, and the hard-won reminders Shawn and Joni wish they had received sooner. Much sooner.

In this episode of Inside The Wolf’s Den, Shawn and Joni Wolfswinkel sit down with Marc Cunningham, a second generation entrepreneur, industry leader, and CEO of Grace Property Management and Real Estate. From his early days in a family run business to leading one of Colorado’s most respected property management firms, Marc shares how he built a company grounded in strong systems, clear processes, and intentional culture. Marc walks through the evolution of Grace, offering a practical look at what it really takes to scale in a demanding industry. He speaks candidly about working with family, from setting boundaries between home and the office to navigating difficult conversations that test both relationships and leadership. The episode also covers the launch of his education platform, PM Build, created to help property management entrepreneurs build stronger businesses. Marc explains the moment he recognized a gap in the industry and how teaching others sharpened his own thinking as an operator. A standout part of the conversation is Marc’s breakdown of the sale of Grace to Rhome. He shares how the opportunity came together, what the due diligence process looked like, and the reality of continuing to lead the company through a major transition after the sale. He also offers clear advice for owners preparing for an eventual exit of their business. To close, Marc reflects on leadership, time management, and the mindset shifts required to move from employee, to operator, to CEO. This episode is packed with practical insight for anyone building, scaling, or selling a business. Grace Property Management & Real Estate Link: https://www.rentgrace.com PM Build Link: https://www.pmbuild.com YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/OvIZBXljZY0

Join Shawn and Joni Wolfswinkel on this captivating episode of Inside the Wolf’s Den Podcast as they talk with Justin Mink, a powerhouse entrepreneur and former corporate trailblazer who has shaped digital marketing, music marketing tech, and data-driven go-to-market strategies. From selling Blow Pops in junior high to steering high-growth teams at ReachLocal, Music Audience Exchange, New Frontier Data, and Scorpion Internet Marketing, Justin shares a rare blend of bootstrapped grit and enterprise precision. Today, as a Certified Outgrow Advisor, he helps clients build repeatable systems that generate predictable revenue. A Washington, D.C. native now thriving in Dallas, Justin’s journey offers practical playbooks for sales, leadership, and scalable growth. In this episode, you’ll hear the roots of Justin’s customer-first mindset: how a junior high bootstrapped business taught him about cash flow, persistence, and the art of understanding the buyer. How early self-reliance shaped later decisions at both startups and established firms, and the mentors and moments that forged his leadership style. The strategic breakthrough at ReachLocal and the problem his multi-unit brands faced, the team structure that enabled scale, and the critical initiatives that helped the company go public. The delicate balance of experimentation and discipline in a fast-paced digital marketing world, plus the metrics that Justin insisted on obsessing over. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned executive, or a marketer chasing the next growth milestone, this conversation offers actionable lessons on building momentum, aligning teams, and cultivating the mindsets that drive systematic, repeatable revenue. Tune in for stories, strategies, and the candid insights only Justin Mink can offer. Justin’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinmink Justin’s Outgrow Link: https://runoutgrow.com/advisor/justin-mink/ Juston’s EOS Link: https://implementer.eosworldwide.com/justin-mink/ YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/Xe49QUo403Y

In this episode, Inside The Wolf's Den dives deep with Ryan Steinberg, a successful Houston, Texas based insurance agent and expert. Ryan is the founder and owner of Texas Prime Insurance Agency, LLC, a firm dedicated to offering top tier insurance products from financially capable carriers while delivering exceptional value to clients. Ryan recently partnered with Dean & Draper, ensuring he continues to serve his existing clients along with new ones for years to come, maintaining the high level of customer service his clients have come to expect.In this engaging conversation, Ryan shares the story behind Texas Prime Insurance Agency and how cutting edge technology helps manage client relationships and tailor risk management solutions. Listeners will gain insights into how a national partnership can expand capabilities without sacrificing personalized service. Discussion highlights include the markets served, and Ryan’s motivation for entering the insurance industry. The episode also covers Ryan’s perspective on the current state of the insurance industry, notable Texas specific trends, and the impact of regulatory changes on day to day operations and product offerings. A thoughtful exploration of consumer expectations over the last 12 to 24 months provides listeners with practical guidance on transparent communication about rate changes. The conversation also tackles rate increases across homeowners, auto, and commercial lines, identifying which segments have risen most and why. Practical mitigations such as discounts are discussed to help clients navigate pricing shifts confidently. Tune in to hear real world insights from a seasoned Texas professional who blends local expertise with national scale to protect what matters most. Ryans Insurance Link: https://www.deandraper.com YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/Y_iidIAvIN4

In this episode of Inside The Wolf's Den, hosts Shawn and Joni Wolfswinkel sit down with Valerie Almanzar, a native New Mexican who has become one of Albuquerque’s most respected and successful real estate professionals. Valerie shares the journey that propelled her from a budding agent in 2006 to a top performer at RE/MAX, thriving even through market downturns. Her story is one of resilience, vision, and an unwavering commitment to her clients. Valerie’s impressive credentials speak to her relentless drive. With a dual MBA in Marketing and Operations Management from the University of New Mexico, she blends business acumen with a sharp market instinct. She’s been recognized by New Mexico Business First as one of the 40 Under 40 and by REALTOR Magazine as one of the 30 Under 30, milestones that highlight her impact early in her career. Alongside this recognition, she has earned numerous certifications, including luxury real estate, underscoring her versatility across the market spectrum.
 As a partner with the Ben Kinney Companies and a founding operator of PLACE, Valerie embraces cutting-edge technology to elevate client experiences. She leverages innovative tools to streamline processes, empower decision-making, and unlock wealth-building opportunities through real estate across New Mexico—from Santa Fe to Albuquerque and beyond. Her expertise spans both residential and commercial development, reflecting a deep understanding of the broader economic and architectural landscape of the region. During the conversation, Valerie offers practical insights into market timing, investment strategies, and how to make real estate work for your financial goals. Shawn and Joni explore her approach to client education, accessibility, and making real estate success achievable for a wide range of people. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, an ambitious investor, or a seasoned developer, this episode delivers a wealth of knowledge, inspiration, and real-world guidance from one of New Mexico’s premier real estate leaders. Tune in for an engaging, insightful, and dreams-wide-open conversation. Valerie Almanzar Albuquerque Real estae link: https://www.bktalbuquerque.com/agent-profile/valerie-almanzar-10290361 YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/Cj-Jwo9FkoM

In this inspiring episode of Inside The Wolf’s Den, Shawn and Joni Wolfswinkel sit down with one of Albuquerque’s top real estate forces, Chris Tanner. A war veteran, devoted husband and father, and premier broker, Chris brings a rare blend of service, leadership, and market mastery to the mic. As the 2025 President of the Greater Albuquerque Association of REALTORS® (GAAR), he now leads a thriving network of 4,500+ REALTORS® and he does so with the discipline and clarity honed from two decades of Air Force service and a relentless commitment to excellence. We dive into Chris Tanner’s extraordinary journey: a University of New Mexico alum with a rich trove of experience, from a 20-year Air Force career culminating as a First Sergeant, to deployment in Iraq, to becoming one of the nation’s top 1% real estate producers. In 2024 he closed 55 families, totaling $22 million in sales, and in 2025 he began shaping the future of Albuquerque real estate through RPAC leadership, MRP, C2EX, and NMAR directorship. In this episode you’ll hear how Chris weaves together military service, education, and real estate into a single mission. The pivotal moment that steered him toward real estate after a storied Air Force career. His priorities as GAAR President and how he translates military leadership into industry wide impact. From competitive tennis and Muay Thai to mountain biking and marksmanship, Chris’s life outside work reflects the same drive and integrity he brings to clients every day. Tune in for candid insights, practical advice, and a portrait of leadership in real estate that’s shaping Albuquerque’s market for years to come. Veteren Realtor Link: https://www.veteranrealtor.com YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/d6umT32idWg

In this episode of Inside The Wolf’s Den, hosts Shawn and Joni Wolfswinkel sit down with John DiJulius, the President and Chief Revolution Officer of The DiJulius Group, a renowned authority on customer experience. A celebrated author, podcaster, and entrepreneur, John shares his relentless pursuit of hospitality excellence and how his proprietary X-Commandment methodology can systematize service across any industry. His ideas are known for being brilliantly simple, instantly actionable, and world-class in their impact. Shawn and Joni guide a candid conversation that unpacks John’s origin story and relentless vision: a culture-first approach where “Great customer experiences start with a great internal culture.” They explore how a strong internal culture becomes the operating system for extraordinary customer experiences, and they unpack what constitutes a genuine “wow” moment. The discussion then pivots to The Customer Experience Playbook, emphasizing the powerful link between employee experience and customer outcomes: “Treat your people well and your customers will feel it.” Listeners will hear concrete examples of how investing in people yields measurable results in hospitality, as well as practical diagnostics for identifying the most important customer experience levers in today’s landscape. Whether you’re leading a team, launching a customer-centric business, or simply obsessed with elevating everyday service, this episode delivers clear, repeatable insights designed to disrupt complacency and spark innovative thinking about what’s possible in customer experience. The DiJulius Group Website Link: https://thedijuliusgroup.com Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/JohnDiJulius Instagram Link: https://www.instagram.com/johnrobertdijulius/?hl=en Email Link: [email protected] YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/lu3vY_fLbAE

In this episode of Inside The Wolf’s Den, Shawn and Joni explain how to maximize time and skill growth through strategic outsourcing and efficient habits, and dive into the busy reality of running five businesses, leading teams, and balancing a thriving family and marriage. The hosts reveal how strategic outsourcing and disciplined efficiency help them manage it all, answering the perennial questions: How do you manage it all? Do you sleep? The core idea is clear: time is a finite resource, and outsourcing becomes a strategic move when earnings exceed roughly $16/hour, freeing up time for learning, side projects, rest, and further business growth. The show details practical outsourcing for meal-related tasks, cleaning and laundry, yard work, and child care, highlighting where time is truly saved. They break down groceries, meal planning, and batch cooking, providing time estimates and options such as grocery delivery or meal kits. Cleaning and laundry receive similar scrutiny, offering insights into when to hire help or leverage nanny services. Yard work and childcare are examined for their substantial time costs, with concrete savings through dedicated services and care providers. Each segment weighs costs versus time saved and dependencies on schedules, delivering a pragmatic map for reclaiming hours. Focusing on reinvesting saved time, Shawn and Joni explain why skill development matters as a force multiplier. They outline actionable, path goal aligned learning, micro lessons, deliberate practice, and time blocking, along with metrics to track progress. The episode wraps with the mantra: “Time is money, but money can buy time,” encouraging listeners to reinvest saved hours into their future selves and higher earning potential. YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/ScjsrMMoyco

In this week’s exciting episode of Inside The Wolf’s Den, hosts Shawn and Joni Wolfswinkel welcome Deb Newell. Deb is an industry leader with over 25 years of hands-on experience in property management. Known as a strategic “fixer,” Deb helps businesses overcome challenges and achieve sustainable growth. Her journey began in 1998 with property renovations, eventually leading her to manage thousands of rental units, launch her own management company, and run a successful maintenance and renovation firm. Drawing from her experience as a property investor, Deb takes a holistic approach to consulting focuses on root causes rather than surface-level fixes. A former NARPM leader, Deb has helped shape industry standards and best practices. In this episode, she shares her inspiring story, the early hurdles she faced, and how her leadership style has evolved. She also breaks down her diagnostic approach to solving problems across people, processes, and technology. Whether you're just starting out or scaling your business, you’ll gain practical insights into industry trends, adapting to regulations, and building resilient teams. Deb also shares her vision for the future and what continues to drive her forward. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of the industry's top minds and discover how to turn challenges into opportunities in the ever-evolving world of property management. Deb Newell’s Property Management Consulting Link: https://www.thepropertymanagementcoach.com Episode YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/I3CQApZz8J0

In this enlightening episode of Inside The Wolf’s Den, hosts Shawn and Joni Wolfswinkel sit down with Bill Lupo, the innovative founder and CEO of UbiGrowth, an AI-powered platform revolutionizing how businesses communicate with their customers. With over 20 years of leadership experience across SaaS, FinTech, and CRM industries, Bill shares his journey from operational expert to visionary founder, driven by a passion to help businesses scale smarter, not just faster. Tune in as Bill reveals the pivotal role AI plays in modern customer engagement—breaking down barriers across voice, email, and SMS, in any language, and at any volume. He discusses how UbiGrowth empowers companies to build meaningful conversations with their audiences, backed by data-driven insights that optimize growth and profitability. Through real-world examples, Bill illustrates how his platform has transformed customer interactions, boosting engagement and loyalty. Beyond technology, Bill emphasizes the importance of leadership, culture, and strategic decision-making during rapid growth. He offers practical advice for founders and executives on navigating chaos, avoiding pitfalls, and fostering a human-centric approach amidst innovation. Looking ahead, Bill shares his vision for the future of AI in business, highlighting emerging trends and opportunities for small and medium-sized businesses to leverage AI effectively. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a leader, or a curious listener, this episode provides valuable insights into how AI and data-backed strategies are shaping the next era of business growth. Join Shawn and Joni as they uncover the secrets behind scaling smarter in today’s competitive landscape. UbiGrowth Link: https://ubigrowth.com Youtube Link: https://youtu.be/yZMHmi3tmVM

Join hosts Shawn and Joni Wolfswinkel for an inspiring episode of Inside The Wolf’s Den as they sit down with Peter Lohmann, a successful entrepreneur and expert in the property management industry. As co-founder and CEO of RL Property Management in Columbus, Ohio, Peter oversees over hundreds of residential units and has built a reputation for his innovative systems and leadership in the field. In this episode, Peter shares his remarkable journey from control systems engineer to leading a thriving property management company. Discover what inspired him to start RL, how the industry has evolved since 2013, and the early challenges he faced—along with his strategies for overcoming them. Peter also discusses the vital qualities of effective leadership, maintaining team motivation, and differentiating in a competitive market. Listeners will gain insights into current industry trends, especially how technology is transforming property management operations. Peter offers practical advice for property owners selecting a management company and emphasizes the importance of trust, transparency, and communication in building strong client and tenant relationships. Beyond business, Peter shares his leadership philosophy, balancing a demanding career with family life, and the influences shaping his approach to success. He also provides a glimpse into the future of property management, highlighting innovative projects and emerging trends to watch. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, seasoned property manager, or property owner, this episode delivers valuable insights from a leader who is shaping the future of the industry. Tune in for an engaging conversation packed with actionable tips, inspiring stories, and expert advice. RL Property Management Link: https://rlpmg.com Email Link: [email protected]

In this exciting episode, Shawn sits down with Joni Wolfswinkel, alongside industry leaders Josh Huite and Steve Rosenberg, to announce a game-changing event for entrepreneurs in Houston: the Strategic Growth Accelerator! Mark your calendars for August 22, 2025, because this one-day power-packed event at Hochzeit Hall in Old Town Spring is designed to equip you with the tools, strategies, and mindset needed to elevate your business to new heights. Join us as Joni shares her expert insights on building and managing an international workforce—discover how hiring global talent can reduce costs while fueling innovation and growth. Meanwhile, Shawn, Josh, and Steve delve into what makes this event so unique: from scaling your business with proven strategies to becoming the leader your team needs. Steve Rozenberg offers his secrets to smart, effective scaling, while Josh Huite reveals how to unlock your leadership potential and inspire your team to succeed. With a wealth of experience combined, Joni, Josh, and Steve are set to share their invaluable wisdom, strategies, and practical tips that can help entrepreneurs elevate their businesses to the next level. Listeners will discover why this event is a must-attend, featuring engaging discussions that cover everything from innovative business strategies to personal growth and resilience in the competitive entrepreneurial landscape. Each speaker brings their unique perspective and expertise, providing attendees with actionable takeaways they can implement right away. This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs eager to accelerate their growth and gain actionable wisdom from industry veterans. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to break through to the next level, the Strategic Growth Accelerator promises practical insights that can transform your business trajectory. Don’t miss out on this exclusive opportunity! Early bird registration is just $297 if you sign up by May 31st—space is limited, so reserve your spot today. The Strategic Growth Accelerator Event Website Link: https://www.wolfdenevents.com/ The Strategic Growth Accelerator Event Invitation Link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/strategic-growth-accelerator-tickets-1303026911569?aff=oddtdtcreator The Strategic Growth Accelerator Event Sponsorship Link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1304634088679?aff=oddtdtcreator The Strategic Growth Accelerator Happy Hour Link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1304625412729?aff=oddtdtcreator

Join high school sweethearts Shawn and Joni Wolfswinkel in this heartfelt episode of Inside The Wolf's Den as they celebrate Valentine’s Day! Dive into the theme of love, relationships, and the unique dynamics of being partners in both business and life. In this engaging episode, Shawn and Joni kick things off with fun Valentine’s Day trivia that will surprise you—did you know that in Japan, it's women who traditionally buy chocolates for men? After a round of trivia, they share their personal love story, recounting how they first met and the pivotal moments that shaped their relationship. The conversation shifts to the complexities of working together as a couple. They discuss the challenges and rewards of blending love and business, offering invaluable tips for couples contemplating the same path. Communication, boundaries, and mutual respect are key themes they explore. Looking for inspiration for next Valentine’s Day? The duo shares creative date ideas and thoughtful gift recommendations that go beyond the usual flowers and chocolates, perfect for couples and families alike. In the Q&A segment, Shawn and Joni respond to questions about relationships, offering their insights and advice. They encourage listeners to share their own Valentine’s stories on social media. As the episode wraps up, Shawn and Joni reflect on the importance of love and connection in all aspects of life, urging listeners to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast. Tune in for an uplifting celebration of love that will inspire you this Valentine’s Day!

Against the Grain - An Inspiring Interview with Successful Entrepreneur and Author Many Hull Welcome to Inside The Wolf's Den podcast with your hosts, Shawn and Joni Wolfswinkel! In this week's episode, the Wolfswinkel duo has the honor of sitting down with the remarkable entrepreneur, author, and speaker Mandy Hull as they delve into Mandy's inspiring journey from a rural upbringing to becoming a beacon of hope and empowerment for others. Growing up surrounded by the beauty of nature, Mandy found solace in the changing seasons and the simplicity of the natural world. Despite facing challenges within her family, she defied the odds. She pursued her dreams, ultimately achieving a master's degree and establishing a successful business while starting a loving family. Mandy's story is one of resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to personal growth. Through her book "Against The Grain" and her speaking engagements, she aims to inspire and empower others to overcome their past and reach their full potential. In this intimate conversation, Mandy shares her experiences of overcoming adversity and finding light in the darkest moments of her childhood. Her passion for supporting and uplifting others shines through as she discusses the importance of embracing one's past and using it as a catalyst for personal transformation. Tune in to this episode of Inside The Wolf's Den to be inspired by Mandy Hull's incredible journey and learn how you, too, can rise above challenges and achieve your dreams. Many’s Link: https://mandyhull.com Against The Grain Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/Against-Grain-Im-Done-Pretending/dp/B0CL8Q6WKR Youtube Link: https://youtu.be/eh9ErMZNcv8

Join Shawn and Joni Wolfswinkel in celebrating the 200th episode of Inside The Wolf's Den podcast. In this milestone episode, the dynamic duo delves into the captivating world of podcasting, unraveling the endless possibilities and advantages awaiting those who dare to start their own show. Discover the enchanting allure of podcasting as Shawn and Joni shed light on the unparalleled benefits it offers. From enhancing your personal brand to propelling your business to new heights, the Wolfswinkels explore how this influential medium can be wielded to share your message with a global audience. Unveil the first gem - 'Amplify Your Voice' - as the hosts emphasize how podcasting provides a stage for individuals to magnify their voice and broadcast their distinct perspectives, insights, and tales to listeners worldwide. Whether you are a seasoned expert, an impassioned enthusiast, or a storyteller with a tale to tell, podcasting empowers you to connect with eager audiences, broadening your reach and paving the way for new connections, customers, and collaborations. In the second gem, 'Build Connections', Shawn and Joni delve into the transformative ability of podcasts to forge authentic relationships with your audience. By delivering compelling content that resonates with your listeners, you can cultivate trust and loyalty, nurturing a devoted community around your show. Engage directly with your audience, receive valuable feedback, and cultivate a sense of belonging among your listeners as you embark on your podcasting journey. Tune in to this 200th episode of Inside The Wolf's Den to unlock the secrets of developing and producing your own podcast!