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Mark Wilson went from a modest house payment and car note to $1.8 million in debt almost overnight. Then a trusted employee's embezzlement pushed his grocery business to the edge—until a wire landed one minute before the wholesaler pulled the money for the next truck. THE WEEK'S CONVERSATIONS, IN ONE EMAIL Choose the depth that fits your time: the full conversation, a roughly 20-minute CONDENSED edition, or a focused Topics episode. Join the From The Ground Up Show newsletter: https://fromthegroundupshow.com/newsletter/ Mark sits down with Erick Loden to unpack more than 35 years of ownership, management, insurance, and real estate in Wyoming. They talk about learning every department of a grocery store, turning around a struggling Buffalo market, surviving thin margins and cash-flow pressure, choosing restitution over prison, hiring ahead of growth, leading through relationships, and rebuilding identity after selling a business. The practical thread is simple: take care of people, own your mistakes, build accountability into the operation, and do the hard things before they become tomorrow's problem. WATCH & LISTEN Watch this full episode: https://youtu.be/Qubv4KoEGdI Subscribe to From The Ground Up Show on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FromTheGroundUp-k9p Listen in your podcast app: https://pod.link/1846907140 SHORTER EDITIONS From The Ground Up Show CONDENSED — a roughly 20-minute focused version of the full conversation. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa9BVKGD64tA Podcast apps: https://pod.link/6806079674 From The Ground Up Show: Topics — complete 3–10-minute episodes built around one useful question or lesson. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVzToS_5Hj6o Podcast apps: https://pod.link/6808750058 GUEST & RESOURCES Mark Wilson, RE/MAX Elevation — Buffalo, Wyoming https://www.remaxelevationbuffalo.com PARTNERS & SPONSORS MacArthur Company — Get what you need when and where you need it. All the service without the hassle. https://www.macarthurco.com/ Athlete Fresh — Break down sweat and odor in work clothes and athletic gear. https://athletefresh.shop/fromthegroundupshow ABOUT FROM THE GROUND UP SHOW Real stories. Hard lessons. Stronger foundations. From The Ground Up Show delivers honest business and leadership conversations and practical lessons for owners, operators, tradespeople, entrepreneurs, and leaders building something that lasts—with hearts, hands, and hustle. Hosted by Erick Loden, a former commercial roofing company owner and business advisor. From 2014 to 2025, he owned and ran his roofing company, growing annual revenue more than eightfold and operating profit nearly fifteenfold before completing a successful internal sale. Website: https://www.fromthegroundupshow.com Have a question for Erick or an upcoming guest? https://fromthegroundupshow.com/ask-a-question/ Have a story built through hearts, hands, and hustle? Apply to be a guest and tell your story: https://fromthegroundupshow.com/be-a-guest/ HASHTAGS: #FromTheGroundUpShow #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #SmallBusiness #BusinessLessons #Wyoming

Revenue more than tripled. Profit went backward. Ben Hansen shares what that growth cost him—and how he now helps owners find the money their businesses are losing. THE WEEK’S CONVERSATIONS, IN ONE EMAIL Choose the depth that fits your time: the full conversation, a roughly 20-minute CONDENSED edition, or a focused Topics episode. Join the From The Ground Up Show newsletter: https://fromthegroundupshow.com/newsletter/ Ben, the founder of Profit Doctor, joins Erick Loden for a candid conversation about growing a company, burning out, and learning to look beyond the top line. They discuss choosing the right work, giving field teams useful financial feedback, finding profit leaks, and accounting for the owner’s labor. Ben also shares the personal experiences and faith that shaped his path. WATCH & LISTEN Watch this full episode: https://youtu.be/BN6vyr4ZwgQ Subscribe to From The Ground Up Show on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FromTheGroundUp-k9p Listen in your podcast app: https://pod.link/1846907140 SHORTER EDITIONS From The Ground Up Show CONDENSED — a roughly 20-minute focused version of the full conversation. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa9BVKGD64tA Podcast apps: https://pod.link/6806079674 From The Ground Up Show: Topics — complete 3–10-minute episodes built around one useful question or lesson. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVzToS_5Hj6o Podcast apps: https://pod.link/6808750058 GUEST & RESOURCES Ben Hansen and Profit Doctor https://profitdoctor.com/ Profit Doctor resource mentioned in the conversation https://profitdoctor.com/leak PARTNERS & SPONSORS Athlete Fresh https://athletefresh.shop/fromthegroundupshow MacArthur Company https://www.macarthurco.com/ OpenAudible https://openaudible.org/ ABOUT FROM THE GROUND UP SHOW Real stories. Hard lessons. Stronger foundations. From The Ground Up Show delivers honest business and leadership conversations and practical lessons for owners, operators, tradespeople, entrepreneurs, and leaders building something that lasts—with hearts, hands, and hustle. Hosted by Erick Loden, a former commercial roofing company owner and business advisor. From 2014 to 2025, he owned and ran his roofing company, growing annual revenue more than eightfold and operating profit nearly fifteenfold before completing a successful internal sale. Website: https://www.fromthegroundupshow.com Have a question for Erick or an upcoming guest? https://fromthegroundupshow.com/ask-a-question/ Have a story built through hearts, hands, and hustle? Apply to be a guest and tell your story: https://fromthegroundupshow.com/be-a-guest/

What has to change before you can move 2,500 miles away from the company you help run? THE WEEK'S CONVERSATIONS, IN ONE EMAILChoose the depth that fits your time: the full conversation, a roughly 20-minute CONDENSED edition, or a focused Topics episode.Join the From The Ground Up Show newsletter: https://fromthegroundupshow.com/newsletter/ Richie Zook helps lead Keystone Gun-Krete in Pennsylvania from his home in North Idaho. Getting there meant learning which responsibilities to hand over, how to support the people taking them on, and what remote ownership actually costs. Richie joins Erick Loden to trace that work from the purchase of an established concrete business with seller financing to a team with capable managers and younger partners. They discuss hourly pay with job-level incentives, the demand test behind major equipment purchases, and why changing an ownership split cannot repair a weak partnership. Richie also shares how he learned to stand behind employees, protect company culture as the business grows, and measure success beyond his job title. WATCH & LISTENWatch this full episode: https://youtu.be/8aRo_Vaba3kSubscribe to From The Ground Up Show on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FromTheGroundUp-k9pListen in your podcast app: https://pod.link/1846907140 SHORTER EDITIONSFrom The Ground Up Show CONDENSED — a roughly 20-minute focused version of the full conversation.YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa9BVKGD64tAPodcast apps: https://pod.link/6806079674 From The Ground Up Show: Topics — complete 3–10-minute episodes built around one useful question or lesson.YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVzToS_5Hj6oPodcast apps: https://pod.link/6808750058 GUEST & RESOURCESRichie Zook and Keystone Gun-Kretehttps://www.keystonegun-krete.com/ PARTNERS & SPONSORSThis episode includes paid promotional material.OpenAudiblehttps://openaudible.orgMacArthur Companyhttps://www.macarthurco.comAthlete Freshhttps://athletefresh.shop/fromthegroundupshow ABOUT FROM THE GROUND UP SHOWReal stories. Hard lessons. Stronger foundations. From The Ground Up Show delivers honest business and leadership conversations and practical lessons for owners, operators, tradespeople, entrepreneurs, and leaders building something that lasts—with hearts, hands, and hustle.Hosted by Erick Loden, a former commercial roofing company owner and business advisor. From 2014 to 2025, he owned and ran his roofing company, growing annual revenue more than eightfold and operating profit nearly fifteenfold before completing a successful internal sale.Website: https://www.fromthegroundupshow.com Have a question for Erick or an upcoming guest?https://fromthegroundupshow.com/ask-a-question/ Have a story built through hearts, hands, and hustle? Apply to be a guest and tell your story:https://fromthegroundupshow.com/be-a-guest/

David Michauxleft a stable project-management career to become a certified welder and buildMichaux Metalworks. The transition forced him to learn what trade school couldnot teach: estimating, equipment decisions, customer selection, pricing, cashflow, and hiring. David explainswhy his first underpriced job cost him more than $1,000, how he launchedwithout taking on unnecessary debt, why he posts daily Reels, and what changedwhen another person's paycheck depended on the business. Listen for acandid look at moving from employee to tradesman to owner, and the decisionsthat make a small trades business sustainable.   Join the FromThe Ground Up Show newsletter: https://fromthegroundupshow.com/newsletter/ WATCH &LISTEN Watch this fullepisode: https://youtu.be/FYSmS8YEIQY Subscribe toFrom The Ground Up Show on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FromTheGroundUp-k9p Listen in yourpodcast app: https://pod.link/1846907140 SHORTEREDITIONS From The GroundUp Show CONDENSED — a roughly 20-minute focused version of the fullconversation. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa9BVKGD64tA Podcast apps: https://pod.link/6806079674 From The GroundUp Show: Topics — complete 3–10-minute episodes built around one usefulquestion or lesson. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVzToS_5Hj6o Podcast apps: https://pod.link/6808750058 GUEST &RESOURCES MichauxMetalworks: https://michauxmetalworks.com/ PARTNERS &SPONSORS https://www.macarthurco.com https://athletefresh.shop/fromthegroundupshow ABOUT FROM THEGROUND UP SHOW Real stories.Hard lessons. Stronger foundations. From The GroundUp Show delivers honest business and leadership conversations and practicallessons for owners, operators, tradespeople, entrepreneurs, and leadersbuilding something that lasts—with hearts, hands, and hustle. Hosted by ErickLoden, a former commercial roofing company owner and business advisor. From2014 to 2025, he owned and ran his roofing company, growing annual revenue morethan eightfold and operating profit approximately fifteenfold before completinga successful internal sale. Website: https://www.fromthegroundupshow.com Have a questionfor Erick or an upcoming guest? https://fromthegroundupshow.com/ask-a-question/ Have a storybuilt through hearts, hands, and hustle? Apply to be a guest and tell yourstory: https://fromthegroundupshow.com/be-a-guest/

What does it take to scale an industry built on individual craftsmanship—without destroying the culture, relationships, and expertise that made its businesses valuable in the first place? THE WEEK'S CONVERSATIONS, IN ONE EMAIL Choose the depth that fits your time: the full conversation, a roughly 20-minute CONDENSED edition, or a focused Topics episode. Join the From The Ground Up Show newsletter: https://fromthegroundupshow.com/newsletter/ Charbel Karam is the CEO and Managing Partner of Spectrum Killian Dental Lab Alliance, one of the country’s largest high-aesthetic dental laboratory platforms. A commercially rated pilot, he came to the dental industry after leadership roles at Airbus, Pratt & Whitney Canada, and several private equity-backed manufacturing companies. As an outsider to the industry, Charbel helped guide an expansion from roughly 1,200 square feet and fewer than 10 employees to approximately 500,000 square feet and 2,300 people. That growth taught him that acquisitions are not won at closing. They succeed—or fail—based on cultural fit, strategic alignment, disciplined integration, and whether leaders can resist “deal fever” long enough to confront warning signs. Charbel explains why combining two businesses only makes sense when one plus one can truly equal three. He also shares how founders can move from working in the business to working on it, why leaders must repeatedly communicate a clear destination, and what it takes to bring people through the uncertainty of major change. The conversation follows his path from aviation into manufacturing, private equity, and dental laboratories. It covers the realities of raising capital and operating with limited resources, a seemingly small decision that may have cost the company millions in missed opportunity, and why perseverance, quiet thinking, and asking for help remain essential to long-term success. For entrepreneurs, executives, investors, and business owners navigating growth, acquisitions, succession, or industry transformation, this is a practical look at how to scale without losing what made the business worth building. WATCH & LISTEN Watch this full episode: https://youtu.be/rvOcqFISL24 Subscribe to From The Ground Up Show on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FromTheGroundUp-k9p Listen in your podcast app: https://pod.link/1846907140 SHORTER EDITIONS From The Ground Up Show CONDENSED — a roughly 20-minute focused version of the full conversation. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa9BVKGD64tA Podcast apps: https://pod.link/6806079674 From The Ground Up Show: Topics — complete 3–10-minute episodes built around one useful question or lesson. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVzToS_5Hj6o Podcast apps: https://pod.link/6808750058 GUEST & RESOURCES Charbel Karam:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charbellouisSpectrum Killian Dental Lab Alliance: https://skdla.comSpectrum Killian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skdla PARTNERS & SPONSORS MacArthur Company: https://www.macarthurco.com Athlete Fresh: https://athletefresh.shop/fromthegroundupshow ABOUT FROM THE GROUND UP SHOW Real stories. Hard lessons. Stronger foundations. From The Ground Up Show delivers honest business and leadership conversations and practical lessons for owners, operators, tradespeople, entrepreneurs, and leaders building something that lasts—with hearts, hands, and hustle. Hosted by Erick Loden, a former commercial roofing company owner and business advisor. From 2014 to 2025, he owned and ran his roofing company, growing annual revenue more than eightfold and operating profit nearly fifteenfold before completing a successful internal sale. Website: https://www.fromthegroundupshow.com Have a question for Erick or an upcoming guest?https://fromthegroundupshow.com/ask-a-question/ Have a story built through hearts, hands, and hustle? Apply to be a guest and tell your story:https://fromthegroundupshow.com/be-a-guest/

Sheldon Murphy started roofing as a teenager and went on to build TSM Roofing into a company generating roughly $10 million in annual revenue. In this episode, he shares the leadership decisions, calculated risks, cultural values, and hard-earned business lessons behind that growth. Sheldon’s story is about far more than roofing. It is the story of a tradesman learning to become an entrepreneur—and an entrepreneur learning to become a leader. He and Erick discuss the transition from doing the work yourself to building a team, developing people, creating a strong company culture, and leading a growing business without losing sight of your family or the values that made the business successful. IN THIS CONVERSATION • How Sheldon entered the roofing industry as a teenager • What pushed him to take the risk of starting his own company • How TSM Roofing grew into an eight-figure roofing business • Why company culture is essential to sustainable business growth • How his leadership style changed as the company expanded • The challenges of trusting people and delegating responsibility • How business owners can develop employees into leaders • The mistakes, sacrifices, and pivotal decisions behind his success • How he balances entrepreneurship, leadership, and family Whether you own a roofing company, operate a construction or trades business, lead a growing team, or dream of becoming an entrepreneur, this episode delivers practical insights from someone who built his company from the ground up. Listen now to hear Sheldon Murphy’s honest account of building TSM Roofing—and the leadership lessons that helped turn a teenage roofer into the owner of a multimillion-dollar company. If this conversation gives you a useful idea or a new perspective, THE WEEK'S CONVERSATIONS, IN ONE EMAIL Choose the depth that fits your time: the full conversation, a roughly 20-minute CONDENSED edition, or a focused Topics episode. Join the From The Ground Up Show newsletter: https://fromthegroundupshow.com/newsletter/ WATCH & LISTEN Watch this full episode: https://youtu.be/jPXT_mpOKOM Subscribe to From The Ground Up Show on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FromTheGroundUp-k9p Listen in your podcast app: https://pod.link/1846907140 SHORTER EDITIONS From The Ground Up Show CONDENSED — a roughly 20-minute focused version of the full conversation. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa9BVKGD64tA Podcast apps: https://pod.link/6806079674 From The Ground Up Show: Topics — complete 3–10-minute episodes built around one useful question or lesson. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVzToS_5Hj6o Podcast apps: https://pod.link/6808750058 GUEST & RESOURCES https://tsmroofs.com/ 623-213-8267 PARTNERS & SPONSORS https://www.macarthurco.com https://athletefresh.shop/fromthegroundupshow ABOUT FROM THE GROUND UP SHOW Real stories. Hard lessons. Stronger foundations. From The Ground Up Show delivers honest business and leadership conversations and practical lessons for owners, operators, tradespeople, entrepreneurs, and leaders building something that lasts—with hearts, hands, and hustle. Hosted by Erick Loden, a former commercial roofing company owner and business advisor. From 2014 to 2025, he owned and ran his roofing company, growing annual revenue more than eightfold and operating profit nearly fifteenfold before completing a successful internal sale. Website: https://www.fromthegroundupshow.com Have a question for Erick or an upcoming guest? https://fromthegroundupshow.com/ask-a-question/ Have a story built through hearts, hands, and hustle? Apply to be a guest and tell your story: https://fromthegroundupshow.com/be-a-guest/ #FromTheGroundUpShow #RoofingBusiness #BlueCollarEntrepreneur #BusinessGrowth #Leadership

What happens when a homicide detective turns his investigative skills inward? In this powerful episode of From The Ground Up Show, Erick Loden sits down with Craig Semple—a former police detective, mental health advocate, and author—to discuss PTSD, burnout, resilience, and the difficult journey of rebuilding a life after trauma. After years of investigating serious crimes and carrying the hidden weight of life behind the badge, Craig reached a breaking point that nearly cost him his life. Recovery required him to approach himself as he woulda complex investigation: examine the evidence, identify destructive patterns, challenge long-held assumptions, and determine what needed to change. Craig shares an honest account of the psychological toll of police work, the warning signs he failed to recognize, and the stigma that often prevents first responders and high-performing leaders from asking for help. He also explains why resilience is not about pretending to be unaffected—it is about learning how to get back up, seek support, and move forward with purpose. This conversation explores: • The cumulative effects of trauma and stress • PTSD and mental health among police officers and first responders • Burnout, identity, and the pressure to appear strong • Recognizing warning signs before reaching a crisis • Using self-awareness to investigate your own life • The practical work of recovery and rebuilding • Turning personal pain into a mission that helps others Craig’s story is raw, courageous, and ultimately hopeful. Whether you are a first responder, business owner, leader, or someone working through a difficult season, this episode offers an important reminder: asking for help is not weakness, and your lowest moment does not have to be the end of your story. Listen to Craig Semple – The Detective Who Investigated His Own Recovery: PTSD, Resilience & Mental Health on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Content note: This episode includes candid discussion of PTSD, mental-health crisis, and attempted suicide. #FirstResponderMentalHealth #PTSDRecovery#MentalHealthMatters #Resilience #FromTheGroundUpShow ⁠https://shop.fromthegroundupshow.com/⁠ THE WEEK'S CONVERSATIONS, IN ONE EMAIL Choose the depth that fits your time: the full conversation, a roughly 20-minute CONDENSED edition, or a focused Topics episode. Join the From The Ground Up Show newsletter: https://fromthegroundupshow.com/newsletter/ WATCH & LISTEN Watch this full episode: https://youtu.be/5pxPUIFg1BY Subscribe to From The Ground Up Show on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FromTheGroundUp-k9p Listen in your podcast app: https://pod.link/1846907140 SHORTER EDITIONS From The Ground Up Show CONDENSED — a roughly 20-minute focused version of the full conversation. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa9BVKGD64tA Podcast apps: https://pod.link/6806079674 From The Ground Up Show: Topics — complete 3–10-minute episodes built around one useful question or lesson. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVzToS_5Hj6o Podcast apps: https://pod.link/6808750058 GUEST & RESOURCES [email protected] https://mentalityplus.com.au/ https://a.co/d/0afqjojv https://a.co/d/02loIZyc PARTNERS & SPONSORS https://www.macarthurco.com https://athletefresh.shop/fromthegroundupshow ABOUT FROM THE GROUND UP SHOW Real stories. Hard lessons. Stronger foundations. Honest business and leadership conversations for people building something that lasts—with hearts, hands, and hustle. Website: https://www.fromthegroundupshow.com Questions: https://fromthegroundupshow.com/ask-a-question/

What happens when a recent college graduate buys a one-way ticket to China with no clear plan for what comes next? For Jonathan Domsky, that decision changed everything. In this episode of From The Ground Up Show, Erick Loden sits down with Jonathan Domsky, co-founder of Kidorable, to discuss the journey from an unconventional childhood and a life-changing trip to China to building a global children's brand carried by thousands of retailers across more than 20 countries. Jonathan shares the lessons he learned while growing Kidorable, building high-performing teams, creating exceptional customer experiences, and developing systems that allowed the company to scale. He also discusses how entrepreneurship became a vehicle for creating a life of freedom, purpose, and impact. In this episode: Building Kidorable from a small apartment into a global brand • Entrepreneurship and designing a life on your own terms • Leadership lessons from growing a business • Creating systems and SOPs that empower employees • Building a customer-first culture • The role of personal growth in business success • Why great companies are built on values, not just products Whether you're an entrepreneur, business owner, manager, or aspiring leader, this conversation is packed with practical lessons on building a company that lasts. #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #LeadershipDevelopment #SmallBusiness #BusinessOwner #FromTheGroundUpShow   https://shop.fromthegroundupshow.com/ THE WEEK'S CONVERSATIONS, IN ONE EMAIL Choose the depth that fits your time: the full conversation, a roughly 20-minute CONDENSED edition, or a focused Topics episode. Join the From The Ground Up Show newsletter: https://fromthegroundupshow.com/newsletter/ WATCH & LISTEN Watch this full episode: https://youtu.be/aWHllkTAYTk Subscribe to From The Ground Up Show on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FromTheGroundUp-k9p Listen in your podcast app: https://pod.link/1846907140 SHORTER EDITIONS From The Ground Up Show CONDENSED — a roughly 20-minute focused version of the full conversation. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa9BVKGD64tA Podcast apps: https://pod.link/6806079674 From The Ground Up Show: Topics — complete 3–10-minute episodes built around one useful question or lesson. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVzToS_5Hj6o Podcast apps: https://pod.link/6808750058 GUEST & RESOURCES untangled-coaching.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/business-personal-growth-coach PARTNERS & SPONSORS https://www.macarthurco.com https://athletefresh.shop/fromthegroundupshow ABOUT FROM THE GROUND UP SHOW Real stories. Hard lessons. Stronger foundations. From The Ground Up Show delivers honest business and leadership conversations and practical lessons for owners, operators, tradespeople, entrepreneurs, and leaders building something that lasts—with hearts, hands, and hustle. Hosted by Erick Loden, a former commercial roofing company owner and business advisor. From 2014 to 2025, he owned and ran his roofing company, growing annual revenue more than eightfold and operating profit nearly fifteenfold before completing a successful internal sale. Website: https://www.fromthegroundupshow.com Have a question for Erick or an upcoming guest? https://fromthegroundupshow.com/ask-a-question/ Have a story built through hearts, hands, and hustle? Apply to be a guest and tell your story: https://fromthegroundupshow.com/be-a-guest/

What happens when you walk away from successful careers, sell nearly everything you own, and travel the world in search of a better life? In this episode of From The Ground Up Show, Erick Loden sits down with Damien and Jessica Zouaoui, founders of Oakwell Beer Spa, to discuss their incredible journey from corporate careers in New York City to building one of the most unique hospitality businesses in America. After leaving the traditional path behind, Damien and Jessica traveled to 25 countries across the globe searching for inspiration, adventure, and opportunity. Along the way, they discovered a concept in Poland that would eventually become Oakwell Beer Spa—an award-winning business that blends wellness, hospitality, and entrepreneurship into an experience unlike anything else in the United States. Together, they share the realities of taking big risks, starting a business from scratch, navigating uncertainty, building a brand, and growing a company that is now expanding through franchising. Whether you're an entrepreneur, small business owner, startup founder, aspiring franchisee, or someone considering a major life change, this conversation is packed with practical insights and inspiration. In this episode: Leaving corporate careers to pursue entrepreneurship • Selling everything and traveling the world • Finding business opportunities in unexpected places • Building Oakwell Beer Spa from the ground up • Creating an award-winning hospitality brand • Franchising a unique business concept • Leadership, risk-taking, and business growth • Lessons learned from startup life If you enjoy conversations about entrepreneurship, business ownership, leadership, startups, franchising, personal growth, and building a meaningful life, you'll love this episode. Subscribe to From The Ground Up Show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. #Entrepreneurship #BusinessOwner #StartupLife #FranchiseBusiness #Leadership #SmallBusiness #BusinessGrowth #FounderStory #HospitalityBusiness #SuccessMindset #Podcast #FromTheGroundUpShow https://shop.fromthegroundupshow.com/ THE WEEK'S CONVERSATIONS, IN ONE EMAIL Choose the depth that fits your time: the full conversation, a roughly 20-minute CONDENSED edition, or a focused Topics episode. Join the From The Ground Up Show newsletter: https://fromthegroundupshow.com/newsletter/ WATCH & LISTEN Watch this full episode: https://youtu.be/qP81T5NVqwY Subscribe to From The Ground Up Show on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FromTheGroundUp-k9p Listen in your podcast app: https://pod.link/1846907140 SHORTER EDITIONS From The Ground Up Show CONDENSED — a roughly 20-minute focused version of the full conversation. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa9BVKGD64tA Podcast apps: https://pod.link/6806079674 From The Ground Up Show: Topics — complete 3–10-minute episodes built around one useful question or lesson. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVzToS_5Hj6o Podcast apps: https://pod.link/6808750058 GUEST & RESOURCES https://oakwellfranchise.com/ https://oakwell.com/ PARTNERS & SPONSORS https://www.macarthurco.com https://athletefresh.shop/fromthegroundupshow ABOUT FROM THE GROUND UP SHOW Real stories. Hard lessons. Stronger foundations. Honest business and leadership conversations for people building something that lasts—with hearts, hands, and hustle. Website: https://www.fromthegroundupshow.com Questions: https://fromthegroundupshow.com/ask-a-question/

Success leaves clues—and Deshaun Bryant's journey is proof that where you start doesn't determine where you finish. In this episode of From The Ground Up Show, host Erick Loden sits down with entrepreneur, sales leader, and Roof Hustlers founder Deshaun Bryant to discuss the mindset, discipline, and relentless work ethic required to build success from the ground up. Deshaun shares his story of overcoming setbacks, flunking out of college, facing adversity, and ultimately finding his path through door-to-door sales, leadership, personal development, and entrepreneurship. Together, they dive deep into the lessons learned from rejection, the importance of communication, building a personal brand, and what it really takes to become a top performer in today's competitive business environment. Whether you're an entrepreneur, business owner, salesperson, contractor, leader, or someone striving to reach the next level in life, this conversation is packed with practical insights and hard-earned wisdom that can help you accelerate your growth. In this episode, you'll learn: How failure can become the foundation for future success • The mindset required to excel in sales and business • Why communication skills are critical for leadership • How to build confidence through action and repetition • The role personal branding plays in creating opportunities • Lessons from the world of door-to-door sales and entrepreneurship • What separates high achievers from everyone else If you're looking for motivation, business advice, sales strategies, leadership lessons, and real-world entrepreneurial insights, this episode delivers. Subscribe to From The Ground Up Show for weekly conversations with entrepreneurs, business leaders, creators, and innovators who are building success one step at a time. #FromTheGroundUpShow #DeshaunBryant #Entrepreneurship #SalesLeadership #BusinessPodcast #PersonalDevelopment #SuccessMindset #Leadership #SalesTraining #RoofingIndustry #BusinessGrowth #Motivation #SmallBusiness #EntrepreneurLife #GrowthMindset https://shop.fromthegroundupshow.com/ THE WEEK'S CONVERSATIONS, IN ONE EMAIL Choose the depth that fits your time: the full conversation, a roughly 20-minute CONDENSED edition, or a focused Topics episode. Join the From The Ground Up Show newsletter: https://fromthegroundupshow.com/newsletter/ WATCH & LISTEN Watch this full episode: https://youtu.be/MTf-BWMWA4E Subscribe to From The Ground Up Show on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FromTheGroundUp-k9p Listen in your podcast app: https://pod.link/1846907140 SHORTER EDITIONS From The Ground Up Show CONDENSED — a roughly 20-minute focused version of the full conversation. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa9BVKGD64tA Podcast apps: https://pod.link/6806079674 From The Ground Up Show: Topics — complete 3–10-minute episodes built around one useful question or lesson. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVzToS_5Hj6o Podcast apps: https://pod.link/6808750058 GUEST & RESOURCES https://roofhustlers.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@roofhustlers https://www.instagram.com/roofhustlers/?hl=en https://www.tiktok.com/@roofhustlers https://www.facebook.com/groups/roofhustlers/ PARTNERS & SPONSORS https://www.macarthurco.com https://athletefresh.shop/fromthegroundupshow ABOUT FROM THE GROUND UP SHOW Real stories. Hard lessons. Stronger foundations. Honest business and leadership conversations for people building something that lasts—with hearts, hands, and hustle. Website: https://www.fromthegroundupshow.com Questions: https://fromthegroundupshow.com/ask-a-question/

In this episode of From The Ground Up Show, host Erick Loden sits down with Brent Garrett for a powerful conversation on entrepreneurship, leadership, business systems, and what it really takes to build a successful company that can thrive without consuming your life. Too many business owners find themselves trapped in the daily grind—working harder every year but never gaining the freedom they envisioned when they started. Brent shares hard-earned lessons from decades in business, including how to build systems that scale, develop leaders who can carry the load, and create a company that grows beyond the owner's direct involvement. Whether you're a small business owner, entrepreneur, manager, trades professional, or aspiring leader, this episode is packed with practical insights on business growth, leadership development, operational excellence, company culture, and long-term success. In this episode, you'll learn: Why systems and processes are essential for sustainable business growth • How effective leadership can transform an organization • Common mistakes that keep entrepreneurs stuck • The importance of developing people and building strong teams • How to create a business that supports your life instead of controlling it • Lessons learned from years of business ownership and leadership If you're looking to scale your business, improve your leadership skills, build a stronger team, or gain more freedom as an entrepreneur, this conversation delivers actionable wisdom you can apply immediately. Subscribe to From The Ground Up Show for weekly conversations with entrepreneurs, business leaders, innovators, and free-thinking individuals who are building exceptional lives and businesses from the ground up. #BusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #BusinessOwner #Leadership #BusinessGrowth #LeadershipDevelopment #Entrepreneur #SuccessMindset #BusinessSystems #CompanyCulture #Management #LeadershipPodcast #SmallBusinessOwner #FromTheGroundUpShow   https://shop.fromthegroundupshow.com/ THE WEEK'S CONVERSATIONS, IN ONE EMAIL Choose the depth that fits your time: the full conversation, a roughly 20-minute CONDENSED edition, or a focused Topics episode. Join the From The Ground Up Show newsletter: https://fromthegroundupshow.com/newsletter/ WATCH & LISTEN Watch this full episode: https://youtu.be/jBvYxnQfJ2E Subscribe to From The Ground Up Show on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FromTheGroundUp-k9p Listen in your podcast app: https://pod.link/1846907140 SHORTER EDITIONS From The Ground Up Show CONDENSED — a roughly 20-minute focused version of the full conversation. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa9BVKGD64tA Podcast apps: https://pod.link/6806079674 From The Ground Up Show: Topics — complete 3–10-minute episodes built around one useful question or lesson. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVzToS_5Hj6o Podcast apps: https://pod.link/6808750058 GUEST & RESOURCES https://brentgarrett.com https://theskilledtradescoach.com/ https://a.co/d/0ggZ6Vxm PARTNERS & SPONSORS https://www.macarthurco.com https://athletefresh.shop/fromthegroundupshow ABOUT FROM THE GROUND UP SHOW Real stories. Hard lessons. Stronger foundations. Honest business and leadership conversations for people building something that lasts—with hearts, hands, and hustle. Website: https://www.fromthegroundupshow.com Questions: https://fromthegroundupshow.com/ask-a-question/

From Prison Sergeant to Leadership Expert: Building Elite Teams, Strong Culture, and Entrepreneurial Freedom | Chris Hallberg What separates average organizations from elite teams? In this episode of From The Ground Up Show, Erick Loden sits down with entrepreneur, EOS implementer, leadership coach, and Business Sergeant founder Chris Hallberg. Chris has spent decades helping organizations improve leadership, accountability, communication, and performance. His work earned national recognition when he was ranked #9 on Inc. Magazine's Top 50 Leadership & Management Experts list. But his journey didn't start at the top. From struggling in school and being labeled a problem student, to serving in the National Guard, working as a corrections officer, building and selling a remodeling company during the Great Recession, and eventually coaching leaders across the country, Chris has learned leadership through experience. In this episode, Erick and Chris discuss: Leadership lessons from the military, corrections, and entrepreneurship • Building accountability without creating a culture of fear • How to develop leaders throughout your organization • Creating a company culture that attracts and retains great people • Why entrepreneurs often become trapped in their own businesses • Implementing EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) for growth and clarity • Building self-managing teams that perform at a high level • Creating systems that support long-term business successWhether you're a business owner, entrepreneur, manager, executive, trades professional, or aspiring leader, this episode is packed with practical insights and actionable takeaways. If you're interested in leadership development, entrepreneurship, business growth, team building, company culture, accountability, EOS, management, and organizational performance, this conversation delivers real-world lessons from someone who has spent a lifetime leading and developing others. Subscribe to From The Ground Up Show for more conversations with entrepreneurs, builders, creators, and leaders who are building extraordinary lives through their heart, hands, and hustle. #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #BusinessOwner #CompanyCulture #TeamBuilding #EOS #LeadershipDevelopment #Management #SmallBusiness #EntrepreneurMindset #FromTheGroundUpShow https://shop.fromthegroundupshow.com/   Sponsor Links: https://www.macarthurco.com https://athletefresh.shop/fromthegroundupshow   Connect with From The Ground Up Show:  https://fromthegroundupshow.com https://www.youtube.com/@FromTheGroundUp-k9p https://www.facebook.com/fromthegroundupshow https://www.instagram.com/fromthegroundupshow/ https://www.tiktok.com/@fromthegroundupshow https://x.com/FTGUshow   Watch the video show on YouTube: https://youtu.be/XIf6LgNrOQ8   Appear on the Show as an expert guest or ask a question of Erick and one of his guests:  https://fromthegroundupshow.com   Guest Links: https://www.youtube.com/@HometownRoofingSC https://hometownroofingsc.com/ 843-331-5850 https://www.instagram.com/hometownroofingsc/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088431266733

In this episode of From The Ground Up Show, Erick Loden sits down with Kyle Weber to discuss the lessons, relationships, and work ethic that have shaped his career in the roofing industry and business world. While many entrepreneurs chase the latest marketing tactic or growth hack, Kyle shares why long-term success is often built on something much simpler: trust, relationships, consistency, and delivering value over time. Kyle discusses his journey in the roofing business, the importance of networking, how referrals continue to drive business growth, and why strong personal and professional relationships remain one of the most valuable assets an entrepreneur can build. Whether you're a contractor, tradesman, small business owner, salesperson, or entrepreneur, this conversation offers practical insights on leadership, business development, relationship marketing, and building a company that lasts. In this episode, you'll learn: How networking can create opportunities that advertising never will • Why referrals remain one of the most powerful business growth tools • The mindset required to succeed in the trades and construction industries • Leadership lessons learned through entrepreneurship • How to build trust, credibility, and lasting business relationships • Why consistency beats shortcuts in business and life If you're looking for practical business advice, entrepreneurial wisdom, and real-world lessons from someone building success from the ground up, this episode is for you. Subscribe to From The Ground Up Show for conversations with entrepreneurs, business owners, tradesmen, leaders, and innovators who are building exceptional lives and businesses through heart, hands, and hustle. #FromTheGroundUpShow #KyleWeber #RoofingBusiness #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusinessGrowth #ContractorLife #BusinessLeadership #Networking #RelationshipMarketing #Sales #BlueCollarBusiness #ConstructionIndustry #BusinessPodcast #LeadershipDevelopment #BusinessGrowth https://shop.fromthegroundupshow.com/ THE WEEK'S CONVERSATIONS, IN ONE EMAIL Choose the depth that fits your time: the full conversation, a roughly 20-minute CONDENSED edition, or a focused Topics episode. Join the From The Ground Up Show newsletter: https://fromthegroundupshow.com/newsletter/ WATCH & LISTEN Watch this full episode: https://youtu.be/TuKrYdoBoRo Subscribe to From The Ground Up Show on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FromTheGroundUp-k9p Listen in your podcast app: https://pod.link/1846907140 SHORTER EDITIONS From The Ground Up Show CONDENSED — a roughly 20-minute focused version of the full conversation. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa9BVKGD64tA Podcast apps: https://pod.link/6806079674 From The Ground Up Show: Topics — complete 3–10-minute episodes built around one useful question or lesson. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVzToS_5Hj6o Podcast apps: https://pod.link/6808750058 GUEST & RESOURCES https://www.youtube.com/@HometownRoofingSC https://hometownroofingsc.com/ 843-331-5850 https://www.instagram.com/hometownroofingsc/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088431266733 PARTNERS & SPONSORS https://www.macarthurco.com https://athletefresh.shop/fromthegroundupshow ABOUT FROM THE GROUND UP SHOW Real stories. Hard lessons. Stronger foundations. Honest business and leadership conversations for people building something that lasts—with hearts, hands, and hustle. Website: https://www.fromthegroundupshow.com Questions: https://fromthegroundupshow.com/ask-a-question/

Most business owners focus on growing revenue. The best business owners focus on building value. In this episode of From The Ground Up Show, host Erick Loden sits down with Matt Andersen to explore what separates good companies from truly valuable businesses. Drawing on experience from more than $5 billion in mergers and acquisitions transactions, Matt shares practical insights on business growth, leadership, company culture, enterprise value, succession planning, and creating a business that can thrive beyond its founder. Whether you're a contractor, entrepreneur, trades professional, small business owner, or executive leader, this conversation offers a roadmap for building a company that is attractive to buyers, resilient through change, and positioned for long-term success. In this episode, you'll learn: How to increase the value of your business long before you plan to sell • What buyers are really looking for during acquisitions • Why leadership development is critical to business growth • How company culture impacts enterprise value • The importance of succession planning and owner independence • Common mistakes business owners make when preparing for an exit • Why the best exit strategies often begin years in advance If you're interested in entrepreneurship, business strategy, leadership, mergers and acquisitions, company valuation, or building a business that lasts, this episode is packed with actionable lessons you can apply immediately. Listen now and learn how to build a business that's worth more than the owner who started it. #BusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship #BusinessOwner #Leadership #BusinessStrategy #ExitStrategy #MergersAndAcquisitions #SmallBusiness #CompanyCulture #EntrepreneurLife #Founder #FromTheGroundUpShow   https://shop.fromthegroundupshow.com/   Sponsor Links: https://www.macarthurco.com https://athletefresh.shop/fromthegroundupshow   Connect with From The Ground Up Show:  https://fromthegroundupshow.com https://www.youtube.com/@FromTheGroundUp-k9p https://www.facebook.com/fromthegroundupshow https://www.instagram.com/fromthegroundupshow/ https://www.tiktok.com/@fromthegroundupshow https://x.com/FTGUshow   Watch the video show on YouTube: https://youtu.be/hIMWKeTyKiM   Appear on the Show as an expert guest or ask a question of Erick and one of his guests:  https://fromthegroundupshow.com   Guest Links: https://westlakesecurities.com/ https://www.amazon.com/Completing-Deal-Mergers-Acquisitions-Raising/dp/163299691X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2VSF8RURGGIDV&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.WJGlk6iXxPBN5H11Dz1bLvedjzSSODCziPaL4veKs24IQ55U2MC4EuQNd9TQ-BvBVxiaNB-4siTSWqB4kXHQ7Xx23rXcT8cXjjd4ZCz8fZLPhcZ5xOj7v4ci0ZhRDhTRm7se1I93tujE6U8V6GplGtVj2zNs8D-u9J4z3wM3QrfaE4NB3GeNxWKdTlyW56Ro.OJyO_EC-jJwihVFN1sTzi7v4Vt4Cmo5Im36nKyup6Bc&dib_tag=se&keywords=completing+the+deal&qid=1780170106&sprefix=completing+the+dea%2Caps%2C298&sr=8-1 https://www.amazon.com/Intentional-Growth-Performance-Outcomes-Company/dp/1639081879/ref=sr_1_1?crid=87IC4OOBJN40&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.2S1PEn-gGCV51etZ8BgkQr-aFzZkO5gUDVFrxBthjKG3uq8zVIgSbdM7vQrU-opqirSjAuIl2hjvjmy61GNPMHOARRq_ghNZEd0qdepAjLqTvQNd1rxScfw2_9LcOMbuxeBKnRBudO78grhomDHlcGNkym-Rjwntb83Vfjp-aV0jVTyRWyKejw-7KHYKHyNFb-6XsbaRwWoE7FMmiYT5F6KQKv-W8VuCI42hGzIsHwo.6QGjyaiJFpussXO2GLZRCv2eyFjuvh3zr-4TiCDhOX4&dib_tag=se&keywords=intentional+growth&qid=1780170131&sprefix=intentional+growth%2Caps%2C305&sr=8-1 https://www.linkedin.com/posts/westlake-securities_author-westlake-ceo-matt-andersen-discusses-activity-7236775330705764352-PHtJ/

In this episode of From The Ground Up Show, we sit down with Mike Goldenstein to talk about entrepreneurship, leadership, business growth, and what it really takes to build a long-term career in the trades and construction industries. With more than three decades of experience across multiple sides of business, Mike shares lessons learned from building companies, navigating industry changes, developing sales teams, embracing technology, and adapting to an evolving marketplace. This conversation goes far beyond roofing — diving into mindset, leadership, customer relationships, business development, and the realities of growing a company from the ground up. We discuss: • Entrepreneurship & business growth • Leadership lessons from decades in the trades • Sales, customer relationships & communication • Technology’s impact on traditional industries • Building and scaling a business • Adapting to change in competitive markets • Lessons learned through success and failure • The future of skilled trades & construction Whether you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, contractor, salesperson, trades professional, or someone working to grow personally and professionally, this episode is packed with practical insight and real-world experience. 🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and everywhere podcasts are available. #FromTheGroundUpShow #EntrepreneurPodcast #BusinessGrowth #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #ConstructionIndustry #Tradesmen #BusinessPodcast #SmallBusiness #SalesLeadership #ContractorLife #LeadershipDevelopment https://shop.fromthegroundupshow.com/ THE WEEK'S CONVERSATIONS, IN ONE EMAIL Choose the depth that fits your time: the full conversation, a roughly 20-minute CONDENSED edition, or a focused Topics episode. Join the From The Ground Up Show newsletter: https://fromthegroundupshow.com/newsletter/ WATCH & LISTEN Watch this full episode: https://youtu.be/xJpcw9ahZT0 Subscribe to From The Ground Up Show on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FromTheGroundUp-k9p Listen in your podcast app: https://pod.link/1846907140 SHORTER EDITIONS From The Ground Up Show CONDENSED — a roughly 20-minute focused version of the full conversation. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLa9BVKGD64tA Podcast apps: https://pod.link/6806079674 From The Ground Up Show: Topics — complete 3–10-minute episodes built around one useful question or lesson. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVzToS_5Hj6o Podcast apps: https://pod.link/6808750058 GUEST & RESOURCES https://offers.roofle.com/ PARTNERS & SPONSORS https://www.macarthurco.com https://athletefresh.shop/fromthegroundupshow ABOUT FROM THE GROUND UP SHOW Real stories. Hard lessons. Stronger foundations. From The Ground Up Show delivers honest business and leadership conversations and practical lessons for owners, operators, tradespeople, entrepreneurs, and leaders building something that lasts—with hearts, hands, and hustle. Hosted by Erick Loden, a former commercial roofing company owner and business advisor. From 2014 to 2025, he owned and ran his roofing company, growing annual revenue more than eightfold and operating profit nearly fifteenfold before completing a successful internal sale. Website: https://www.fromthegroundupshow.com Have a question for Erick or an upcoming guest? https://fromthegroundupshow.com/ask-a-question/ Have a story built through hearts, hands, and hustle? Apply to be a guest and tell your story: https://fromthegroundupshow.com/be-a-guest/