The Sharpen Podcast

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.

From President to CEO: Taking Over When Your Name's Not on the Door

In this episode, we delve into the journey of transitioning from a key executive role to becoming the CEO, especially when your name isn't on the door.
Our guest today is Darin Heyen, the diligent and meticulous CEO of Pearce Construction, a company he bought from its founder, Don Pearce. Darin shares his unique journey from an entry-level project manager to the sole owner of a reputable construction company. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of managing a business where the legacy name remains, and the importance of building a brand-centric rather than person-centric company culture.
Listen in as Darin recounts his relationship with Don Pearce, the intricate process of buying the company, and the lessons learned during a long transition period. Whether you're a key executive considering a buyout or a founder looking to sell, this episode offers valuable insights into making a successful transition and ensuring the longevity of your business.

The Joys and Challenges of Marriage with an Entrepreneur

Join Steve Van Diest, co-host of the Sharpen Podcast by Acumen, as he invites his wife, Christine Van Diest, to share about the unique challenges and rewards of being married to an entrepreneur! Christine, a business owner herself, shares her invaluable perspective and experiences from their 31-year journey together.
Christine discusses the emotional and logistical hurdles of supporting an entrepreneurial spouse, especially during the early years of business startups. She offers practical advice on maintaining a balanced family life, effective communication, and the importance of personal growth for both partners.
This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurial couples seeking to thrive both in business and in their personal lives. Tune in for heartfelt insights and actionable tips to navigate the complexities of marriage and entrepreneurship.

Accounting vs. Strategy: Demystifying Key Financial Roles for Business Growth

In today's episode, Dan Cooper invites Ben Olsen of Tarsus CFO Services to delve into the often confusing world of financial roles within a business. We discuss the differences between a bookkeeper, a controller, and a CFO, and why understanding these distinctions is crucial for any business owner. With wit and expertise, Ben provides clear insights into how these roles contribute to a company's financial health and strategic growth.
We explore topics such as the typical responsibilities of each financial role, when and why a business might need a controller versus a CFO, and the impact of efficient financial management on business decisions. Ben also shares practical advice for businesses experiencing growth pains and offers tips on how to assess your current financial setup to determine if you need additional expertise.

Balancing Business, Ministry, and Marriage

Join co-host Steve Van Diest as he sits down with Sean Taylor, co-founder of Cornerstone Christian Counseling. In this episode, they explore the intersection of business, ministry, and marriage, offering valuable insights for business owners and CEOs looking to grow and thrive.
Sean shares his journey of starting a faith-based counseling practice with his wife, Angie, and the unique challenges and rewards of running a business as a couple. They discuss the importance of maintaining healthy boundaries between work and personal life and offer practical tips for couples who work together.
Additionally, Sean delves into the significance of seeking professional counseling for business owners and their employees, highlighting when and why to consider it. This episode is packed with wisdom on balancing multiple roles, fostering healthy relationships, and achieving personal and professional growth.
Don't miss this enlightening conversation that provides actionable advice for integrating faith and business, while also taking care of mental health. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how to navigate the complexities of business, ministry, and marriage.

Sustainable Success: The Power of Operating Systems (and Humility)

Join us for another down-to-earth conversation packed with wisdom and humor! Dan Cooper interviews Levi Messer on his movement from a trailblazing, sales-superhero style of leadership to something more collaborative, humble, and sustainable. One key takeaway: the value (and necessity) of a strong operating system!
Learn how Levi grew personally and professionally, built a strong leadership team, and embraced a mission to change people's eternity through his work. Discover insights and practical advice for business owners looking to achieve sustainable success.

Striking a Balance: Intentional Priorities during Growth and Chaos

We all strive to balance our personal and professional lives - but how much more challenging can that be when you're combatting the patterns modeled to you, when your business is growing by leaps and bounds, and when the joyfully chaotic life of a young family is complicated further by processes of adoption? What can it look like for balance and calm to prevail, even then? Steve Van Diest interviews Jonathan Hachmeister about his experience as the son of a founder, as the father of young children, and as the leader of a growing company in this episode of the Sharpen Podcast.