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The Start, Scale & Succeed Podcast

Latest episodes

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Jun 26, 2025 • 24min

The Only Podcast That Grows With You with Scott Ritzheimer (stages 1,2,3,4,5,6,7) - Ep. 301

In this transformative episode, Scott Ritzheimer, Founder and CEO of Scale Architects shares shares a roadmap for founders to focus on stage-specific actions. If you struggle with content fatigue or feeling overwhelmed, you won't want to miss it.You will discover:- Why focus on your current stage to avoid overwhelm and grow faster- How to identify your stage with a quick assessment at foundersquiz.com- What episodes to listen to for tailored advice at scalearchitects.com/podcastThis episode is ideal for Founders, Owners, and CEOs in stages 1,2,3,4,5,6,7 of The Founder's Evolution. Not sure which stage you're in? Find out for free in less than 10 minutes at https://www.scalearchitects.com/founders/quizScott helped start nearly 20,000 new businesses and nonprofits and with his business partner started led their multimillion-dollar business through an exceptional and extended growth phase (over 10 years of double-digit growth) all before he turned 35.He founded Scale Architects to help founders and CEOs identify and implement the one essential strategy they need right now to get them on the fast track to Predictable Success.Want to learn more about Scott Ritzheimer's work at Scale Architects? Check out his website at https://www.scalearchitects.com/To learn more about Scott, visit https://www.scattritzheimer.com.To get help scaling your own business or nonprofit, visit https://www.scalearchitects.comMentioned in this episode:Take the Founder's Evolution Quiz TodayIf you’re a Founder, business owner, or CEO who feels overworked by the business you lead and underwhelmed by the results, you’re doing it wrong. Succeeding as a founder all comes down to doing the right one or two things right now. Take the quiz today at foundersquiz.com, and in just ten questions, you can figure out what stage you are in, so you can focus on what is going to work and say goodbye to everything else.Founder's Quiz
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Jun 23, 2025 • 44min

Are you in Whitewater? Really? with Les McKeown (stages 3,4) - Ep. 300

In this illuminating episode, Les McKeown shares how you can navigate the hidden stages within your business’s growth arc to overcome chaos and scale effectively. If you’re struggling to understand why complexity keeps derailing your growth, or if you feel overwhelmed by chaos despite early success, you won’t want to miss it.You will discover:- Why small W Whitewater in Fun requires tweaks, not enterprise-wide systems- How to make sales repeatable in Fun to boost consistency and growth- What minimal systems in Early Struggle keep you afloat without overwhelmThis episode is ideal for Founders, Owners, and CEOs in stages 3,4 of The Founder's Evolution. Not sure which stage you're in? Find out for free in less than 10 minutes at https://www.scalearchitects.com/founders/quizLes McKeown, Founder of Predictable Success, has over 25 years of global business experience, including starting 42 companies in his own right. Before founding Predictable Success, Les established himself as a serial founder/owner, starting over 40 companies. He was the founding partner of an incubation consulting company that launched hundreds of businesses with thousands of employees. His expertise is helping organizations achieve scalable, sustainable growth, and his breakthrough strategies have been widely recognized and implemented.Want to learn more about Les McKeown's work at Predictable Success? Check out his website at https://www.predictablesuccess.com/To learn more about Scott, visit https://www.scattritzheimer.com.To get help scaling your own business or nonprofit, visit https://www.scalearchitects.comMentioned in this episode:Take the Founder's Evolution Quiz TodayIf you’re a Founder, business owner, or CEO who feels overworked by the business you lead and underwhelmed by the results, you’re doing it wrong. Succeeding as a founder all comes down to doing the right one or two things right now. Take the quiz today at foundersquiz.com, and in just ten questions, you can figure out what stage you are in, so you can focus on what is going to work and say goodbye to everything else.Founder's Quiz
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Jun 17, 2025 • 23min

The Mindset You Once Needed That Now Holds You Back with Bradley J. Koch (stage 3) - Ep. 299

In this empowering episode, Brad Koch shares how you can take control of your business by shifting your mindset and focusing on key strategies. If you’re struggling to let go of daily tasks, or if you feel overwhelmed by scattered marketing efforts, you won’t want to miss it.You will discover:- Why shifting your mindset helps you delegate and focus on your zone of genius- How to focus on one marketing channel to drive growth without burnout- What daily 1% progress can do to steadily scale your businessThis episode is ideal for for Founders, Owners, and CEOs in stage 3 of The Founder's Evolution. Not sure which stage you're in? Find out for free in less than 10 minutes at https://www.scalearchitects.com/founders/quizBradley J. Koch is the Owner and CEO of 4sight Coaching. Brad is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and a 32-year veteran of corporate America. He's developed high-performing teams, started and sold businesses, and been part of growth teams. Brad works with small businesses, Founders, and CEOs to help them overcome their biggest challenges. Whether a company needs to improve retention, profitability, sales performance, or strategy, he provides the environment and tools for success.Want to learn more about Bradley J. Koch's work at 4sight Coaching? Check out his website at https://4sightcoach.com/Mentioned in this episode:Take the Founder's Evolution Quiz TodayIf you’re a Founder, business owner, or CEO who feels overworked by the business you lead and underwhelmed by the results, you’re doing it wrong. Succeeding as a founder all comes down to doing the right one or two things right now. Take the quiz today at foundersquiz.com, and in just ten questions, you can figure out what stage you are in, so you can focus on what is going to work and say goodbye to everything else.Founder's Quiz
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Jun 17, 2025 • 23min

What to Do BEFORE You Start with Meir Ezra (stage 1) - Ep. 298

In this insightful episode, Meir Ezra shares how you can start a business aligned with your life goals by learning foundational skills. If you’re struggling with where to start, or if you lack confidence to launch your idea, you won’t want to miss it.You will discover:- Why learning the seven business areas ensures your startup’s success- How to learn effectively to understand and define success clearly- What small steps build confidence to overcome doubts and startThis episode is ideal for for Founders, Owners, and CEOs in stage 1 of The Founder's Evolution. Not sure which stage you're in? Find out for free in less than 10 minutes at https://www.scalearchitects.com/founders/quizMeir Ezra is Israeli-born and raised. After completing six years in a top unit in the Israeli submarines, Meir traveled the Far East, including hiking through the Himalayas. Meir then moved to South Africa. He established his company, which grew to $100 million within 3 years by age 31. Meir went on to establish multiple companies across the globe, has many inventions and patents in his name, and has invested in countless businesses. Meir gives a guarantee that no one else provides: A target is agreed upon for your business or life, and if you follow the steps he lays out, he guarantees your success - or your money back.Want to learn more about Meir Ezra's work at Guaranteed Prosperity? Check out his website at https://www.gprosperity.com/Mentioned in this episode:Take the Founder's Evolution Quiz TodayIf you’re a Founder, business owner, or CEO who feels overworked by the business you lead and underwhelmed by the results, you’re doing it wrong. Succeeding as a founder all comes down to doing the right one or two things right now. Take the quiz today at foundersquiz.com, and in just ten questions, you can figure out what stage you are in, so you can focus on what is going to work and say goodbye to everything else.Founder's Quiz
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Jun 9, 2025 • 24min

Emotions, Vision, Leadership & Growth with Vanessa Judelman (Stage 4) - Ep. 297

In this empowering episode, Vanessa Judelman shares how you can lead effectively in a fast-paced world by becoming a conscious leader. If you’re struggling with team misalignment, or if you feel frustrated by slowing pace despite growth, you won’t want to miss it.You will discover:- Why conscious leadership helps you set the right tone for team alignment- How to use short coaching meetings to bridge pace gaps with your team- How a RACI chart ensures strategic execution by clarifying team rolesThis episode is ideal for for Founders, Owners, and CEOs in stage 4 of The Founder's Evolution. Not sure which stage you're in? Find out for free in less than 10 minutes at https://www.scalearchitects.com/founders/quizVanessa Thompson is the President of Mosaic People Development, with over 20 years of experience helping organizations build leaders who drive outstanding results. As a speaker, facilitator, certified executive coach, and leadership consultant, Vanessa brings a practical, results-oriented approach to leadership development. She teaches leaders how to transition from "doers" to strategic thinkers. Vanessa empowers leaders with tools and strategies to boost self-awareness, confidence, and teamwork. She has coached leaders at top organizations like Campbell's Soup, The United Nations, HelloFresh, SickKids, and the Bank of Montreal.Want to learn more about Vanessa Judelman's work at Mosaic People Development? Check out her website at https://www.mosaicpd.com/Mentioned in this episode:Take the Founder's Evolution Quiz TodayIf you’re a Founder, business owner, or CEO who feels overworked by the business you lead and underwhelmed by the results, you’re doing it wrong. Succeeding as a founder all comes down to doing the right one or two things right now. Take the quiz today at foundersquiz.com, and in just ten questions, you can figure out what stage you are in, so you can focus on what is going to work and say goodbye to everything else.Founder's Quiz
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Jun 9, 2025 • 32min

There's Nothing Soft About Being a Steady Leader with Schuyler Williamson (stages 2,3,4) - Ep. 296

In this powerful episode, Schuyler Williamson shares how you can lead steadily through chaos using proven models. If you’re struggling with overwhelm, or if you feel chaos derails your leadership, you won’t want to miss it.You will discover:- Why steady leadership ensures clarity in chaotic growth stages (and how he learned it from a direct hit by an IED)- How to use combat readiness to lead yourself amidst uncertainty- What clear vision communication does to align your growing teamThis episode is ideal for for Founders, Owners, and CEOs in stages 2,3,4 of The Founder's Evolution. Not sure which stage you're in? Find out for free in less than 10 minutes at https://www.scalearchitects.com/founders/quizSchuyler Williamson is a leadership expert, entrepreneur, and decorated military veteran who has consistently achieved the highest business and service levels. As the author of The Steady Leader: Leadership Models That Bring Clarity to Chaos, Schuyler provides actionable strategies for leading through uncertainty, drawing from his experience as a Bronze Star Medal recipient and combat officer with deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. A top West Point and McCombs MBA graduate, Schuyler ranks in the top 1 percent of real estate agents nationwide, with hundreds of millions in sales and ownership of over fifty-five investment properties.Want to learn more about Schuyler Williamson's work at Williamson Group Real Estate? Check out his website at thesteadyleader.com or https://www.schuylerwilliamson.com/Mentioned in this episode:Take the Founder's Evolution Quiz TodayIf you’re a Founder, business owner, or CEO who feels overworked by the business you lead and underwhelmed by the results, you’re doing it wrong. Succeeding as a founder all comes down to doing the right one or two things right now. Take the quiz today at foundersquiz.com, and in just ten questions, you can figure out what stage you are in, so you can focus on what is going to work and say goodbye to everything else.Founder's Quiz
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Jun 9, 2025 • 24min

Branding Strategy that will Supercharge Your Exit Plan with Angelo Ponzi (stage 5) - Ep. 295

In this insightful episode, Angelo Ponzi shares how you can enhance your exit strategy with a strong brand focus. If you’re struggling with market saturation, or if you feel unprepared for a big exit, you won’t want to miss it.You will discover:- Why understanding culture ensures a smoother exit and lasting legacy- How to assess your market size to avoid unrealistic growth goals- What internal data analysis reveals to balance client concentration risksThis episode is ideal for for Founders, Owners, and CEOs in stage 5 of The Founder's Evolution. Not sure which stage you're in? Find out for free in less than 10 minutes at https://www.scalearchitects.com/founders/quizAngelo Ponzi is a fractional and interim CMO, CRO, CSO, and marketing and brand strategist specializing in B2B, B2C, and DTC markets. He is also a keynote speaker, author, and podcast host with extensive hands-on experience across marketing, branding, advertising, research, and sales. With a career spanning diverse industry verticals and brand niches, his portfolio includes engagements with notable brands such as AT&T (formerly SBC Global), Ericsson, Kendall-Jackson, and Disney, among many others.Want to learn more about Angelo Ponzi's work at Craft? Check out his website at https://www.craftmarketingandbranding.com/Mentioned in this episode:Take the Founder's Evolution Quiz TodayIf you’re a Founder, business owner, or CEO who feels overworked by the business you lead and underwhelmed by the results, you’re doing it wrong. Succeeding as a founder all comes down to doing the right one or two things right now. Take the quiz today at foundersquiz.com, and in just ten questions, you can figure out what stage you are in, so you can focus on what is going to work and say goodbye to everything else.Founder's Quiz
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Jun 9, 2025 • 25min

The Founder’s Guide to Marriage with Dr. Robin Buckley (stages 1,2,3,4,5,6,7) - Ep. 294

In this empowering episode, Dr. Robin Buckley shares how you can apply business strategies to strengthen your marriage. If you’re struggling to balance work and relationships, or if you feel overwhelmed by marital challenges, you won’t want to miss it.You will discover:- Why business skills like strategy can enhance your marriage across all stages- How to create a mission statement to align your relationship goals- What 180 thinking does to control negative thoughts and improve communicationThis episode is ideal for for Founders, Owners, and CEOs in stages 1,2,3,4,5,6,7 of The Founder's Evolution. Not sure which stage you're in? Find out for free in less than 10 minutes at https://www.scalearchitects.com/founders/quizDr. Robin Buckley earned her PhD in clinical psychology from Hofstra University, with specialized training in cognitive behavioral methodology and executive coaching. Multiple media platforms featured her work, including Entrepreneur, Chief, Authority Magazine, Nike, and the TED stage. As an international speaker, Robin focuses on applying cognitive behavioral strategies to mental wellness in the workplace and women’s equity and empowerment. As a coach, Robin applies cognitive behavioral tactics to help organizations, couples, and individuals create strategic plans for professional and personal success.Want to learn more about Dr. Robin Buckley's work at Insights Group? Check out her website at drrobinbuckley.com, her company website at https://igcoaching.net/, and her book, Marriage Inc Build a Thriving Relationship with a Business MindsetMentioned in this episode:Take the Founder's Evolution Quiz TodayIf you’re a Founder, business owner, or CEO who feels overworked by the business you lead and underwhelmed by the results, you’re doing it wrong. Succeeding as a founder all comes down to doing the right one or two things right now. Take the quiz today at foundersquiz.com, and in just ten questions, you can figure out what stage you are in, so you can focus on what is going to work and say goodbye to everything else.Founder's Quiz
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Jun 9, 2025 • 23min

Bridging the Leadership Gap with Rhiannon Albert (stage 4) - Ep. 293

In this insightful episode, Rhiannon Albert shares how you can align HR strategy to manage growth and reduce overwhelm. If you’re struggling with team misalignment, or if you feel bogged down by HR complexities, you won’t want to miss it.You will discover:- Why partnering with HR aligns your team and mitigates risk in chaos- How to integrate HR into decisions to avoid siloed thinking- What open-mindedness allows you to dream bigger despite HR challengesThis episode is ideal for for Founders, Owners, and CEOs in stage 4 of The Founder's Evolution. Not sure which stage you're in? Find out for free in less than 10 minutes at https://www.scalearchitects.com/founders/quizRhiannon Albert is the founder of My Trusted HR. It offers fractional and interim HR leadership to businesses across the U.S. With over 23 years of HR experience and dual certifications (SHRM-CP & HRCI-PHR), Rhiannon specializes in guiding CEOs, CFOs, and business owners in strengthening their HR functions, managing risk, and fostering company culture. As a trusted advisor to leaders, she mentors HR teams, helping them elevate from reactive to strategic.Want to learn more about Rhiannon Albert's work at My Trusted HR? Check out her website at https://mytrustedhr.com/Mentioned in this episode:Take the Founder's Evolution Quiz TodayIf you’re a Founder, business owner, or CEO who feels overworked by the business you lead and underwhelmed by the results, you’re doing it wrong. Succeeding as a founder all comes down to doing the right one or two things right now. Take the quiz today at foundersquiz.com, and in just ten questions, you can figure out what stage you are in, so you can focus on what is going to work and say goodbye to everything else.Founder's Quiz
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Jun 3, 2025 • 26min

How to Turn Words into Wealth with Aurora Winter (stage 2) - Ep. 292

In this transformative episode, Aurora Winter shares how you can turn your story into a powerful brand to grow your business. If you’re struggling to stand out, or if you feel stuck in a job instead of a business, you won’t want to miss it.You will discover:- Why your brand is the story others tell to build trust and credibility- How to use a book to scale beyond local limits and attract clients- What neuroscience tips cut through noise to share your story effectivelyThis episode is ideal for for Founders, Owners, and CEOs in stage 2 of The Founder's Evolution. Not sure which stage you're in? Find out for free in less than 10 minutes at https://www.scalearchitects.com/founders/quizAurora Winter, MBA, is an award-winning, bestselling author. She is a successful serial entrepreneur, media trainer, creator of the Spoken Author™ method, and founder of Same Page Publishing. Aurora left her lucrative career as a TV executive decades ago to become a full-time author, trainer, and entrepreneur. Using storytelling for business, she created a life of freedom, creativity, and contribution. Now, she helps her clients turn their words into wealth, wisdom, and wonder.Want to learn more about Aurora Winter's work at www.aurorawinter.com/? Check out her website at https://www.aurorawinter.com/ and get a copy of her book, Turn Words into Wealth, at turnwordsintowealth.comMentioned in this episode:Take the Founder's Evolution Quiz TodayIf you’re a Founder, business owner, or CEO who feels overworked by the business you lead and underwhelmed by the results, you’re doing it wrong. Succeeding as a founder all comes down to doing the right one or two things right now. Take the quiz today at foundersquiz.com, and in just ten questions, you can figure out what stage you are in, so you can focus on what is going to work and say goodbye to everything else.Founder's Quiz

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