ISI Brotherhood Podcast

"I should have done my due diligence, I should have made up contracts. It was all on a handshake..." Imagine stepping into the shoes of Paul, a Kentucky-based manufacturing company owner, who stands at such a pivotal juncture after losing his company's biggest client. On this episode of THE FORGE, we dissect Paul's current business strategy and offer him insights that could steer his company back to profitability.Key Takeaways:Is Paul the right man to be running his own company? How to funnel tasks so you can work ON your company instead of IN itNuts and bolts of financial strategy to build profitabilityKnowing your own strengths and weaknessesPaul's candid disclosure of the hurdles he's facing brings to light the universal struggles many entrepreneurs encounter in crafting a business that's not only profitable but also aligns with their personal strengths and vision.Wrapping things up, we pivot to the future by unpacking sales tactics and big-picture growth strategies. Paul, armed with a truckload of fresh perspectives, is ready to tackle his business challenges head-on, and we're right there cheering him on. Join us on this monthly segment for a hearty dose of inspiration and practical advice, and remember, the view is always better at the top.Win a Free Ticket for ISI Event: http://viewfromthetop.com/winJoin our conversation: www.viewfromthetop.com/groupPersonality Resources: Working Genius, KOLBE testConnect with Anthony Witt: witthouse.com or anthonywitt.comAnthony Witt is a professional licensed counselor and a business owner with a deep understanding of how entrepreneurship impacts personal health and those around them. Having bought, sold, and started multiple businesses, he has gained valuableexperience at the intersection of personal health and business. His belief that "a healthy business owner creates a healthy business" underscores his approach to helping entrepreneurs thrive.Connect with Bret Barnhart:Barnhartexcavating.comBret’s Calendar LinkBret’s LinkedinBret Barnhart, Jr. is the fourth generation in his family to start his own excavation company. He began Bret Barnhart Excavating (BBE) in 2002 with $1,500, a single backhoe and truck, and a trailer. Since then, BBE has grown to an entire fleet of heavy machinery and trucks, averages just under 20 employees, and grosses $4mil annually. If you want to hear more speakers like this every month and be with the guys on the call, join the Iron Sharpens Iron Community today: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/isi-communityConnect with Big A:View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.comThe ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletterBig A’s Linkedin:

"We have freedom of choice, but we don’t have freedom of consequences.” Caught in a bind between two close friends entwined in a business quandary, the weight of secrecy presses heavily on Big A today.  As the president of Superior Rigging and Erecting Co., Patrick Lewis brings a wealth of experience to our candid discussion on the delicate balance of confidentiality in both our personal and professional lives. We venture into the complexities of withholding information, even from spouses, as we recall a compelling episode with my church's pulpit committee. The conversation unearths the critical foundations of trust and the nuanced implications of privacy across various spheres, from mastermind groups to intimate partnerships.Key Takeaways:Why do men hate being vulnerable? Big A didn't even WANT to be in his mastermind groupThe "I just wanna do whatever I wanna do" attitude ripple affectWhat qualifies your friends as trustworthy?This episode isn't just about exposing the softer side; it's a call to action for anyone seeking REAL connection. It is CRITICAL to embrace vulnerability with ourselves and with others. After all, a truly fulfilling life—and a view from the top—is just on the other side of openness.Connect With Patrick Lewis:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-lewis-superior-rigging/ Patrick Lewis is the President and CEO at Superior Rigging & Erecting Co., a hoisting, rigging and steel erection company with locations in Atlanta, Georgia and Orlando, Florida. He began working for Superior when he was just 10 years old and has seen the company grow from a small family business to a leader in their industry, employing over 370 employees. Patrick held multiple positions within the company before taking over as Owner/President in 2001.  Patrick attended Mercer University and received his Millwright JATC in 1996. Amongst his many accomplishments, Patrick is also Head Coach of Georgia Impact Fastpitch Softball and led his 18U team to become PGF National Champions in 2018.Iron Sharpens Iron Live Event Free Ticket Giveaway: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/winJoin our LinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14378351/If you want to hear more speakers like this every month and be with the guys on the call, join the Iron Sharpens Iron Community today: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/isi-communityConnect with Big A:View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.comThe ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletterBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/

"Do other men want to hang out with you if all you do is work? I enjoy different experiences, but I’m not a big fan of crazy adventures.” The craziest things we've ever done come with stories, but at what cost? Why do men feel the need for risk-taking adventures, and why do some men never get to close too true thrill? Our dialogue meanders through the realms of adventure and experience, coloring the air with anecdotes from our pasts. Big A delves into the ways his father's protective nature inadvertently sculpted his own approach to parenting and living, possibly tipping the scales towards  "overcaution." Life is a dance as intricate as it is personal, where the steps of adventure and the rhythm of experience influence not only our growth but also that of the generations to follow. What can we do to stay fulfilled and have a little fun while we're at it?Key Takeaways:Adventure vs. experiencesWhat's the point of adventure? Escaping problems vs. true thrillWhat men (and their families) need to be fulfilledTo wrap up, we extend an invitation to you, our listeners, to join us for one of our local Roundtable discussions that provide a haven for sharing aspirations and stories with peers who understand your quest for a life well-lived. Iron Sharpens Iron Live Event Free Ticket Giveaway: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/winIf you want to hear more speakers like this every month and be with the guys on the call, join the Iron Sharpens Iron Community today: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/isi-communityConnect with Big A:View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.comThe ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletterBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/

“You’re trying to position yourself to fit in so that you feel accepted, but I don’t think that’s what belonging [means].”  Have you ever felt like nobody "gets you"? You work strange hours, you have unique hobbies, you're alone at the top of the leadership food chain... how can you belong without having to try to fit in? We pull back the curtain on our personal lives, revealing the paths we've walked—through high-society gatherings and family dynamics—to discover where we genuinely fit. Key Takeaways:Fitting in vs. belonging What's really linked to our happiness?Why forcing ourselves to "like" something won't get us real friendsWays to foster a sense of belonging in your lifeThe journey toward genuine connection doesn't end with simply finding your tribe; it's also about fostering those relationships with openness and empathy. On today's episode, we unravel the intricacies of social acceptance and the courage it takes to stand firm in one's identity.Iron Sharpens Iron Live Event Free Ticket Giveaway: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/winJoin our LinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14378351/If you want to hear more speakers like this every month and be with the guys on the call, join the Iron Sharpens Iron Community today: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/isi-communityConnect with Big A:View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.comThe ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletterBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/

"I could write a book on anxiety... I'm fighting for reconciliation within the family and the business because there's brokenness." Mystery business owner David is holding on to the threads of a 50 year legacy. Should he go with his gut or listen to the other family members about what to do with the business? How do you build a legacy for your kids and grandkids without the risk of them becoming entitled? Or do you make them work for everything they ever own? These challenges and more are the foundation of a 50 year legacy that David is facing with his siblings and his wife and his wife's siblings... yes, lots of family members AND lots of opinions at a family firm. Key Takeaways:The dangers of building your future on a handshakeThe best way forward when family problems leak into the businessHow do you honor the family legacy without compromising on dreams and values?How to set boundaries and at what costThe narrative weaves through tales of divine calling, the importance of preserving personal relationships above business dealings, and the wisdom of legacy planning. It's a candid look at the sacrifices and decisions made at the crossroads of personal aspirations and familial obligations.Win a Free Ticket for ISI Event: http://viewfromthetop.com/winConnect with Anthony Witt: witthouse.com or anthonywitt.comAnthony Witt is a professional licensed counselor and a business owner with a deep understanding of how entrepreneurship impacts personal health and those around them. Having bought, sold, and started multiple businesses, he has gained valuableexperience at the intersection of personal health and business. His belief that "a healthy business owner creates a healthy business" underscores his approach to helping entrepreneurs thrive.Connect with Bret Barnhart:Barnhartexcavating.comBret’s Calendar LinkBret’s LinkedinBret Barnhart, Jr. is the fourth generation in his family to start his own excavation company. He began Bret Barnhart Excavating (BBE) in 2002 with $1,500, a single backhoe and truck, and a trailer. Since then, BBE has grown to an entire fleet of heavy machinery and trucks, averages just under 20 employees, and grosses $4mil annually. Bret started out with the family business knowledge and expanded it. In the beginning, his work mainly consisted of general earthwork, utility installation, and excavating pools and storm shelters. As his company grew, Bret saw the need for being more specialized and began pursuing certifications for government contracts and local municipal work. Being specialized, along with having a personal mentor and joining a mastermind, has helped shape not only Bret's company but also himself as well. Bret and his wife Crystal have been married for 16 years and have two children, Cole and Adelyn.If you want to hear more speakers like this every month and be with the guys on the call, join the Iron Sharpens Iron Community today: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/isi-communityConnect with Big A:View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.comThe ISI Newsletter:

"They don’t look at things as rationally as they did when they were younger. It’s a difficult conversation to have." The signs of our parents' aging may be subtle, but they're a wake-up call we unfortunately can't ignore (or at least, we shouldn't). Big A and Wally exchange heartfelt stories about the undercurrent of concern for our parents as everyone gets older. We discuss the delicate balance between stepping in to help and respecting the independence of our loved ones. Key Takeaways:What questions you should ask your parents NOWWhen do you know it's time to intervene? What if you don't have a good relationship with them?It's time to step up and have the courage to ask our parents about their will and healthcare directives. We exchange perspectives on the difficult yet necessary discussions about end-of-life preparations, emphasizing how these conversations protect the fabric of our family relationships from potential strain when they're gone.The journey of supporting aging parents is multifaceted, touching on emotional care, maintaining connections, and when to seek professional guidance. Our conversation ventures into the importance of consistent communication, the healing power of forgiveness, and the roles that hobbies and community engagement play in keeping our parents mentally active. Iron Sharpens Iron Live Event Free Ticket Giveaway: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/winIf you want to hear more speakers like this every month and be with the guys on the call, join the Iron Sharpens Iron Community today: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/isi-communityConnect with Big A:View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.comThe ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletterBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/

"If we never give unsolicited advice, how do they know?" Ever found yourself biting your tongue to avoid giving that piece of unsolicited advice? No one is a stranger to those moments. So do you be brutally honest, or keep quiet to keep the peace?In our vibrant exchange, we divulge personal accounts of giving advice to our peers and our children and grandchildren. Have you wondered whether it was wise to keep silent or to say something? What about when you're a member in a church and you don't agree with something they've done? Key TakeawaysPersonal preferences vs. real problemsHow to make unsolicited advice... solicited. When a friend does something they shouldn't do–in your opinionIt's a conversation filled with personal insights, as we tackle the complicated tango of supporting loved ones without overstepping boundaries.Iron Sharpens Iron Live Event Free Ticket Giveaway: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/winIf you want to hear more speakers like this every month and be with the guys on the call, join the Iron Sharpens Iron Community today: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/isi-communityConnect with Big A:View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.comThe ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletterBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/

"If you wait and procrastinate, [stress] is harder to deal with... it'll cost you more." 2023 threw a curveball of personal health challenges Big A's way, and he's been navigating this with fresh eyes on the ever-changing landscape of stress management. We don't all react to stress in the same ways, but what gives inner peace? We have kids, our business, our wife, relationships, finances... the list never ends. So what daily habits can help? We have a heart-to-heart on finding peace amid the storms, whether they're literal or figurative.Key Takeaways:How to manage everyday stressors of being a business owner, father, and husbandAre you even aware of what makes you stressed?The best ways to de-stress when everything is on your shouldersLet's face it—life gets hectic, and sometimes the sofa feels more appealing than the treadmill. We've got tips on how to keep your calendar—and stress levels—in check, and we're not afraid to laugh at ourselves along the way. Join us as we explore why it's okay to reach out to friends, family, or even a therapist when the going gets tough. It's all about managing stress with grace, humor, and a community that's got your back.Join the conversation, ask your own questions, and meet other entrepreneurs by joining our Facebook Group: http://viewfromthetop.com/groupIf you want to hear more speakers like this every month and be with the guys on the call, join the Iron Sharpens Iron Community today: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/isi-communityConnect with Big A:View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.comThe ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletterBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/

"Where there is no risk, there is no great gain." Ready to kick your growth into overdrive and embrace the power of calculated risks? Join us, Wally Wallenbeck and Big A, as we usher in 2024 with a potent blend of stories, strategies, and lessons to fuel your personal and professional evolution. Say goodbye to the typical New Year's resolutions and hello to a vision-driven life that doesn't just happen by chance, but is built by design. It's not just about age or stage; it's about making progress that matters, and we're here to show you how with some calculated risk. Big A'll take you back to his audacious real estate auction days and how a calculated gamble became a triumph, while Wally shares a candid tale of overpromising in a job interview that led to a career-defining moment. Key Takeaways:No risk = no great gainBig A and Wally share their tales of risky businessWhat if you're risk averse because of the economic downturn? Why ignoring your weaknesses could be a HUGE risk This episode isn't just about taking risks; it's about how to arm yourself with the right tools, like SWOT analysis, to turn potential pitfalls into stepping stones for success.Connection, engagement, and strategic focus can elevate your year from good to extraordinary. Join us on this journey to the peak of potential – your view from the top awaits.Join the conversation, ask your own questions, and meet other entrepreneurs by joining our Facebook Group: http://viewfromthetop.com/groupIf you want to hear more speakers like this every month and be with the guys on the call, join the Iron Sharpens Iron Community today: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/isi-communityConnect with Big A:View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.comThe ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletterBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/

"You're really good at dreaming, but you're not good at dreaming for YOURSELF." Mystery Entrepreneur, Eric, takes the heat with Big A, Wally, and fellow businessman Anthony Witt on today's episode of THE FORGE. Does Eric want to scale with a cash flow of 15% or optimize cash flow at a 50% net profit? What does he REALLY want? The guys dig their heels in to get him to answer the question about what he truly wants for the future of his business and his future with his wife and kids. Eric's so averse to risk, it's risky to even know for sure what to do! Listen in as they guide him to make the best decisions for his business... grow to SELL or grow to SAVE?Ever reached a point where your business growth hits a wall, and you're left questioning your next move? Let's dive in. Key Takeaways:"If you're growing, you're dying"??Define what you want or forever stay where you areHow to make decisions as a risk-averse entrepreneur Grow to SELL or grow to SAVE? We'll peel back the layers on navigating the complexities of expanding your business, managing cash flow, and how it's risky to NOT know what you want. This conversation is a treasure trove for entrepreneurs seeking to carve out success without compromising on life's joys.Want to connect with the guys on today's episode?Connect with Anthony Witt: witthouse.com or anthonywitt.comAnthony Witt is a professional licensed counselor and a business owner with a deep understanding of how entrepreneurship impacts personal health and those around them. Having bought, sold, and started multiple businesses, he has gained valuableexperience at the intersection of personal health and business. His belief that "a healthy business owner creates a healthy business" underscores his approach to helping entrepreneurs thrive.Connect with Bret Barnhart:Barnhartexcavating.comBret’s Calendar LinkBret’s LinkedinBret Barnhart, Jr. is the fourth generation in his family to start his own excavation company. He began Bret Barnhart Excavating (BBE) in 2002 with $1,500, a single backhoe and truck, and a trailer. Since then, BBE has grown to an entire fleet of heavy machinery and trucks, averages just under 20 employees, and grosses $4mil annually. Bret started out with the family business knowledge and expanded it. In the beginning, his work mainly consisted of general earthwork, utility installation, and excavating pools and storm shelters. As his company grew, Bret saw the need for being more specialized and began pursuing certifications for government contracts and local municipal work. Being specialized, along with having a personal mentor and joining a mastermind, has helped shape not only Bret's company but also himself as well. Bret and his wife Crystal have been married for 16 years and have two children, Cole and Adelyn.If you want to hear more speakers like this every month and be with the guys on the call, join the Iron Sharpens Iron Community today: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/isi-communityConnect with Big A:View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.comThe ISI Newsletter: