The Start, Scale & Succeed Podcast

Scott Ritzheimer
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Sep 2, 2025 • 21min

Surviving Your Sophomore Year as an Entrepreneur with Kareen Walsh (stage 3) - Ep. 324

In this streamlined episode, Kareen Walsh, CEO of Revampologist, LLC, shares strategies to scale your business beyond year one. If you struggle with sustainability or trust, you won't want to miss it.You will discover:- Why 90% of businesses fail in years 2-5 without a clear long-term vision- How to identify your CEO role (Creator, Entrepreneur, Operator) to lead effectively- How to simplify growth by focusing on supply, demand, and cyclical evaluationThis 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/quizKareen Walsh is a visionary business and people strategist, author, podcaster, investor, and a 7-figure business-building entrepreneur, making her the ultimate Business Healer. With nearly two decades of experience optimizing performance in the health and wellness, e-commerce, technology, and finance industries and running top-performing teams in complex environments, Kareen has a proven track record of helping C-Suite executives turn their vision of impact into action. She has worked with trillion-dollar businesses, including BlackRock and Broadridge, to execute their strategic initiatives, as well as helping startups like Pure Vitality and Drip Hydration build growth strategies to scale.Want to learn more about Kareen Walsh's work at Revampologist, LLC? Check out her free AI coaching app at heykareen.com/ceo and connect with her on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kareenwalsh/ or get a behind the scenes look on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/kareenzwalshMentioned 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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Sep 2, 2025 • 26min

Is Your Problem Your People, Your Processes, or Your Past? with Steven Falk (stage 5) - Ep. 323

In this transformative episode, Steven Falk, Founder and CEO of SwitchbackOS, shares strategies to balance systems and relationships for leadership excellence. If you struggle with team dynamics or control, you won't want to miss it.You will discover:- How to use metacognition to manage thoughts and lead effectively- Why balancing systems and relationships creates world-class leadership- How to rewire your brain to overcome bad habitsThis 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/quizSteven R. Falk is the CEO and Founder of Switchback Systems Corp, specializing in leadership and team performance in high-pressure environments. With over 20 years of experience in Marriage and Family Therapy, he brings deep insight into human behavior, communication, and resilience. His work centers on the concept of Human Agency—controlling thoughts and actions under pressure. Through his Switchback Foundation Training, he equips leaders with tools to break bad habits, build accountability, and enhance communication using engaging, practical methods. Steven is also a keynote speaker and author of The Switched-On CEO, supporting cultures of resilience and sustainable growth.Want to learn more about Steven Falk's work at SwitchbackOS? Check out his website at https://www.switchbackos.com and get a copy of his book, The Switched-On CEO on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/Switched-CEO-Think-World-Class-Leader/dp/1775281302/ref=sr_1_1Mentioned 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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Aug 26, 2025 • 21min

The Secret to Securing Consistent Monthly Income with Tracy Beavers (stage 1) - Ep. 322

In this tenacious episode, Tracy Beavers, Founder of Tracy Beavers Coaching, shares strategies for consistent income. If you face unpredictable revenue, you won't want to miss it.You will discover:- How to create 90 days of content in 30 minutes- Why one-to-one coaching builds momentum early- How to use organic strategies for list growthThis 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/quizTracy Beavers has a proven track record in business growth as the CEO and Founder of Tracy Beavers Coaching. With an award-winning career spanning 20 years, Tracy has guided hundreds of entrepreneurs to grow their business visibility through organic marketing strategies. She is a public speaker, and a published author. CBS television, The Wall Street Journal, Vanity Fair, and Kajabi have featured Tracy. She is the creator of the top-ranked business podcast “Create Online Business Success!”Want to learn more about Tracy Beavers's work at Tracy Beavers Coaching? Check out her website at https://www.tracybeavers.com/social and her podcast, Create Online Business Success, at https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/create-online-business-success-visibility-lead-generation/id1751582214Mentioned 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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Aug 26, 2025 • 23min

How to Break Out When You Feel Like You’re Going to Break Down with Stewart Ervin (stage 4) - Ep. 321

In this coherent episode, Stewart Ervin, President of Bracket Management, shares strategies to streamline your business growth. If you face chaos or doubt about scaling, you won't want to miss it.You will discover:- How to align sales and operations for smoother growth- Why a 12-month forecast guides better deci- How to embrace processes without losing your visionThis 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/quizStewart Ervin is the driving force behind Bracket Management, a premier Fractional CFO company. As a proven finance and operations executive, he brings structure, process improvement, and people development to make an impact. Stewart is a seasoned expert in the manufacturing industry with an impressive track record of helping businesses optimize their financial performance and strategic planning. Stewart's unique approach blends proven corporate results with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by many small businesses.Want to learn more about Stewart Ervin's work at Bracket Management? Check out his website at https://www.bracketmgmt.com/ or connect with him on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/stewartervin/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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Aug 19, 2025 • 23min

How Good Are You... at Selling You? with Chris Marr (stage 2) - Ep. 320

In this decisive episode, Chris Marr, Founder of The Authoritative Coach, shares strategies to boost confidence and authority as a coach. If you struggle with self-doubt or people-pleasing, you won't want to miss it.You will discover:- How to see yourself as the prize to attract better clients- Why embracing your unique perspective builds stronger connections- How to cultivate an abundance mindset to reduce desperationThis 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/quizChris Marr is the founder of The Authoritative Coach and author of Become an Authoritative Coach: Stop People-Pleasing, Challenge Your Clients, and Be Indispensable. With over 15 years of experience, Chris has helped client-facing professionals worldwide—from small businesses to enterprises with nine-figure revenues—build stronger client relationships, navigate challenging conversations, and position themselves as indispensable experts. He created the People Pleaser’s Path to Authority assessment, a tool that helps professionals identify and break habits holding them back.Want to learn more about Chris Marr's work at The Authoritative Coach? Check out his website at https://www.theauthoritativecoach.com/, connect with him on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theauthoritativecoach/, and get a copy of his book: Become an Authoritative Coach: Stop People-Pleasing, Challenge Your Clients, and Be Indispensable.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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Aug 19, 2025 • 20min

Do You Have Financial Problems or Financial Consequences? with Tom Dillon (stage 4) - Ep. 319

In this prudent episode, Tom Dillon, Founder of Frak Finance, shares strategies for data-driven financial decisions. If you struggle with cashflow mismatches, you won't want to miss it.You will discover:- How to use rolling forecasts to predict cashflow issues- Why transparency with executives boosts team problem-solving- How to shift from gut-based to data-driven decisionsThis 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/quizTom Dillon, CFA, is a seasoned financial strategist and the driving force behind Frank Finance. With years of experience as a fractional CFO, Tom specializes in helping SMBs unlock growth through data-driven financial management, cash flow optimization, and strategic investments. His mission is to demystify complex financial concepts, empowering entrepreneurs and executives to make confident, informed decisions that fuel long-term success. His insights help entrepreneurs and executives cut through financial noise, focus on what drives profitability, and make strategic decisions with clarity and confidence.Want to learn more about Tom Dillon's work at Frak Finance? Check out his website at https://www.frakfinance.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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Aug 12, 2025 • 25min

Why A Sales Rep Isn't the Answer You're Looking For with Christopher Filipiak (stages 2,3) - Ep. 318

In this feasible episode, Christopher Filipiak, Owner of Christopher Filipiak LLC, shares strategies to stabilize your sales. If you struggle with inconsistent revenue or hiring salespeople, you won't want to miss it.You will discover:- How to shift your mindset to see structure as freedom- Why mastering sales yourself ensures stable revenue growth- What systems are needed for a sales-ready organizationThis episode is ideal for for Founders, Owners, and CEOs in stages 2,3 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/quizChristopher Filipiak assists CEOs in excelling at their sales endeavors. Leveraging his background in engineering, data analytics, and Fortune 100 consulting, he integrates strategy, execution, and mindset transformation to build Sales Ready Organizations capable of achieving consistent and profitable sales. His distinctive experience merges an engineering foundation, robust business principles, and a strong emphasis on mindset, delivering a holistic approach that comprehensively transforms sales organizations.Want to learn more about Christopher Filipiak's work at Christopher Filipiak LLC? Check out his website at https://www.christopherfilipiak.com/ and find out if your organization is Sales-Ready at https://www.christopherfilipiak.com/blog/sales-readyMentioned 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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Aug 12, 2025 • 28min

Why Your Business Won't Sell with Darryl Bates-Brownsword (stages 5,6) - Ep. 317

In this workable episode, Darryl Bates-Brownsword, Founder of Succession Plus UK, shares strategies to make your business sellable. If you struggle with exit planning or maximizing value, you won't want to miss it.You will discover:- How to start exit planning early to ensure a high-value sale- Why reducing owner dependence boosts your business’s marketability- What intangible assets like IP and branding increase valuationThis episode is ideal for for Founders, Owners, and CEOs in stages 5,6 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/quizDarryl Bates-Brownsword helps business owners turn their life's work into a valuable legacy. As an expert in succession and exit planning, he works with SMEs to build resilient, sellable businesses that thrive without owner dependence. Through his 21-step methodology and Exit Insights podcast, Darryl empowers entrepreneurs to maximize business value, minimize risks, and exit on their terms. Darryl's insights are a must-hear if you're ready to secure your future and create a business buyers will love.Want to learn more about Darryl Bates-Brownsword's work at Succession Plus UK? Cconnect with him on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrylbates-brownsword/ or check out his podcast at exitinsights.co.ukMentioned 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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Aug 4, 2025 • 24min

How to Scale Your Sales with Systems and Software with Andy Audate (stage 3) - Ep. 316

In this perceptive episode, Andy Audate, President of AudateMedia, shares strategies for leveraging CRMs to scale your business predictably. If you struggle with disorganized customer tracking or inefficient sales processes, you won't want to miss it.You will discover:- Why a CRM tracks customer journeys to streamline your sales process- How to choose a CRM tailored to your customer’s specific journey- What mission-critical data to capture in your CRM for profitThis 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/quizAndy Audate is an international speaker, renowned small business marketing expert, and the founder of Progreda. With a proven track record, he specializes in assisting small businesses in effectively marketing their high-ticket services through webinars that have attracted over 9,500 entrepreneurs. Andy's SaaS has achieved a seven-figure run rate, and his guidance has empowered thousands of small businesses to create marketing campaigns that have collectively generated $20+ million in revenue.Want to learn more about Andy Audate's work at AudateMedia? Try Progreda for Free for 14 Days at https://progreda.com/lory 'Buy No More Average' Book : How to Take Control of Your Mindset, Overcome Fear, Reach Peak Performance and Achieve Your Goals https://a.co/d/2FnrZUz Text ”Progress” to # 702-830-7408 for access to a FREE live webinar hosted by Andy Audate for a full breakdown of his marketing system for online business ownersMentioned 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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Aug 4, 2025 • 21min

Is this the End of the Non-Tech Founder? with David Hirschfeld (stages 1,2) - Ep. 315

In this enlightening episode, David Hirschfeld, Founder and CEO of Tekyz Inc, shares how AI transforms entrepreneurship for non-tech and tech founders. If you struggle with leveraging AI or validating business ideas, you won't want to miss it.You will discover:- Why AI simplifies market research and planning for stage 1 non-tech founders- How to use AI to ask the right questions for business success- What Launch First methodology prioritizes sales before building productsThis episode is ideal for for Founders, Owners, and CEOs in stages 1,2 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/quizDavid Hirschfeld is a 35-year software development veteran. David's career spans leadership roles at tech giants like Computer Associates, Texas Instruments, Intel, and Motorola before launching his first startup—which grew to 800 customers across 22 countries and was successfully sold in 2000. David has emerged as a strategic advisor specializing in AI-driven workflow transformation for scaleups and in the design & development of startups. He developed the Launch 1st Method—a systematic approach that minimizes risks and accelerates software company success with reduced reliance on investor funding.Want to learn more about David Hirschfeld's work at Tekyz Inc? Check out his website at https://tekyz.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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