The Sharpen Podcast

The Power of Branding: The Purple Guys' Unique Journey

Join host Dan Cooper as he sits down with Jon Schram, a successful serial entrepreneur known for selling the same company three times. Discover the significance of branding, exemplified by Jon's company, The Purple Guys, and learn how a simple color transformed into a memorable brand.
Jon shares his intriguing journey — from the humble beginnings of unique branding strategies with purple shirts to executing successful business exits to different types of buyers. Understand the complexities and emotional aspects of selling a business and how Jon adapted to each sale, maintaining his attachment and evolving with every transition.
This episode is a must-listen for business owners seeking inspiration, whether considering a company sale or enhancing their brand's presence. Gain insights into the value of simplicity in branding, achieving successful exits, and the importance of planning the next steps in business ventures.

Leading an 80-Year Legacy: Values and Pivots through the Decades

Join Steve Van Diest as he hosts Dale Hahs, leader of AIS Industrial and Construction Supply. In this episode, they explore the challenges and triumphs of navigating an 80-year-old family business through technological, economic, and industry changes. Dale shares personal stories from his journey starting as an apprentice under his grandfather to stepping into the CEO role, and how his faith and leadership style guided the company through pivotal moments.
Dale discusses the moments that defined his leadership, including transitions in industry practices and technology from the post-war era to today's digitized demands. He also touches on his preparation to pass the mantle to the next generation, emphasizing a foundation built on core values and continuous improvement. Discover how AIS adeptly balances heritage with innovation and learn valuable lessons from their story of resilience.

Sacrificing Your Sacred Cows: The Messy Business of Change

Join Dan Cooper as he delves into the world of Jack Stack Barbecue with CEO Travis Carpenter. In this episode, they explore the concept of "sacrificing sacred cows" in business, with a humorous nod to the barbecue industry. Discover how Travis led Jack Stack through transformative changes during COVID, including branching into grocery retail, embracing third-party delivery, and innovating with new menu offerings.
Travis shares insights on navigating internal resistance to change, leveraging team input for successful adaptations, and maintaining a forward-thinking mindset in a complex business environment. Learn about Jack Stack's journey from a single Kansas City restaurant to a multi-faceted business with nationwide reach, and celebrate 50 years of flavor and innovation.
Perfect for business owners and leaders looking for inspiration on growth, adaptability, and creating a lasting impact. Don't miss this engaging conversation filled with practical advice and a passion for barbecue.

The Power of Listening: Transforming Business Through Client-Centric Strategies

David Riggs, a seasoned business leader and CEO of Pneuma, discusses the transformative power of listening to clients in the business world. This episode explores whether ego can interfere with our ability to truly hear our clients' needs and how businesses can thrive by prioritizing client feedback.
David Riggs shares insights from his diverse career, highlighting his journey from corporate finance to founding Pneuma, a rapidly growing SEO, paid search, and website development firm. He emphasizes the importance of understanding customers' problems deeply and solving them effectively, advocating for a business model that goes against the grain of automation and embraces personalized client interactions.
Throughout the conversation, David and Steve delve into how listening to clients has shaped Pneuma's success, informed its growth into two major hubs in Denver and Indiana, and driven its client-focused approach. They also discuss the psychology of consumer behavior, the significance of customer feedback in refining marketing strategies, and the balance between entrepreneurial ambition and client satisfaction.
In the latter part of the episode, David opens up about his personal journey, sharing how his faith and values guide his leadership style and company culture. He emphasizes the importance of servant leadership, shared purpose, and supporting employees' personal aspirations as keys to fostering a dynamic and thriving work environment.
Join this insightful discussion to discover how listening to clients can lead to sustainable business growth and a fulfilling entrepreneurial journey.

The CEO-COO Dynamic: Strategies for Growth and Alignment

Host Dan Cooper sits down with Curt Sampson, Head of Growth for Monarch Inventory Services and Growth Catalyst at Acumen, to explore the intricate relationship between CEOs and COOs. As these roles are often referred to as the 'visionary' and 'integrator,' understanding their dynamic is crucial for business growth and success.
Curt shares insights from his diverse career, starting from his days with large corporations like Hallmark and Newell Rubbermaid to his journey as a consultant and entrepreneur. He delves into the importance of aligning visions, executing strategies, and maintaining healthy tension between the CEO and COO to drive business forward.
The discussion touches on the significance of communication, setting clear objectives, and the role of core values in achieving alignment. Whether you're a CEO considering the need for an operator or a COO navigating your position, this episode offers valuable takeaways on building a successful leadership team.

Navigating Business Acquisition: Lessons from a First-Time Buyer

Join Steve Van Diest, co-host of the Sharpen Podcast, as he dives into the intricacies of business acquisition with Jeremy Hunka, a member of the Summit team in Colorado. Jeremy, a former chemistry major turned entrepreneur, shares his journey of buying and running Summit Cabinet Coatings, a cabinet refinishing business in Northern Colorado.
In this episode, Jeremy discusses the transition from commercial real estate to owning a small business, the challenges he faced, and the importance of building trust with his new team. He offers valuable insights for both aspiring business buyers and current business owners considering selling their companies.
Discover the key criteria Jeremy looked for when purchasing a business, the significance of operational systems and company culture, and the personal growth he experienced through this entrepreneurial journey. Whether you're thinking about buying a business or preparing to sell, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration.

Integrating Real Estate into Your Business Strategy

In this episode, host Dan Cooper and guest Mike Farag delve into the strategic integration of real estate into business operations.
Mike is the owner of Fervor Marketing, a full-service marketing communications agency for Christian nonprofits. Mike shares his journey of diversifying his business portfolio by incorporating real estate, discussing the strategic benefits and challenges he faced along the way.
From the inception of the idea to the creation of a purpose-built meeting space called the Bonhoeffer, Mike explains how owning real estate has provided new opportunities for client engagement and business growth. He also offers practical advice on navigating the complexities of commercial real estate, from cost segregation to environmental studies.

Navigating the Goldilocks Zone of Mergers & Acquisitions

Steve Van Diest and Dennis Corsi dive into the "Goldilocks" principle in the context of mergers and acquisitions. Discover how Dennis, a seasoned business owner and Growth Catalyst, navigated through too hot, too cold, and just right acquisition attempts with his firm, Armstrong Consultants.
Learn valuable lessons on the importance of communication, maintaining focus during due diligence, and the significance of peer community support. Dennis also shares his personal journey post-acquisition, emphasizing the importance of taking time off for reflection and growth. Whether you're a maverick business owner or someone considering the next chapter in your career, this episode offers insights and inspiration for achieving extraordinary outcomes in business and life.