
Next Level Pros
Welcome to Next Level Pros, where we explore the journeys of some of the most successful and inspiring entrepreneurs from around the world. I'm your host, Chris Lee.
Throughout my career, I've founded multiple nine-figure companies and learned a thing or two about what it takes to succeed in the world of business. Now, I want to share those lessons with you by bringing on guests who have their own incredible stories to tell. I'm on a mission to find the most unique and entertaining individuals that have done it the right way.
Latest episodes

Sep 24, 2024 • 55min
#125: Scaling Fails: How Financial Blind Spots Cost Him Big
Welcome to a New Episode of Next Level Pros! Join us in this insightful episode as we sit down with PR expert, Ulyses Osuna. Known for his remarkable work with top industry figures, Ulyses shares a candid look into the financial hurdles and strategic pivots of scaling a business. Dive deep into the practicalities of growth, the importance of understanding financial metrics, and how Ulyses recalibrated his business model to align better with both his professional and personal life.
Apply to be on the show:
https://forms.gle/hwDijQPFyKCEtHNs8
Highlights:
"You can grow, but it doesn't work like that if you don't understand the underlying metrics."
"The right reasons to grow a business are about making it the vehicle for your life, not just your life itself."
"Scaling isn't just about growth; it's about smart, sustainable actions that align with your long-term vision."
"When you truly understand your business numbers, you unlock the power to scale effectively."
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction: The pivotal decisions in business growth
05:24 - Ulyses discusses the challenges of scaling too quickly
11:00 - Breaking down the cost of goods sold and gross margins
17:00 - Importance of fixed and variable costs in scaling
23:16 - The strategic recalibration for better business health
29:45 - The psychological impact of rapid business changes
36:05 - Sales strategies and maintaining quality during growth
42:11 - Leveraging existing resources to maximize output
48:22 - Effective financial strategies for sustainable growth
50:37 - Closing thoughts
Want me to teach you how to grow your business? Text me! 509-374-7554
Want access to more of my content? Click the link below for all of our latest updates and events!
https://linktr.ee/nextlevelpros
Want to be a guest on our show? Apply here!https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1YlkVBSluEKMTg4gehyUOHYvBratcxHV5rt3kiWTXNC4/viewform?edit_requested=true
Watch my latest PodcastApple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-level-pros/id1687030281
Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/show/1e0cL2vI1JAtQrojSOA7D2?si=95980cd4e55a437a
YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@NextLevelPros

Sep 17, 2024 • 35min
#124: Next Level Pros - A New Chapter Begins
Welcome to a New Episode of Next Level Pros We’re excited to bring you this episode of what we used to call the Founder Podcast—now rebranded as Next Level Pros! Join Chris and Daryl as they dive into the essence of always striving for the next level in entrepreneurship and life. They discuss the importance of designing lives that impact the world through entrepreneurship, embracing change, and setting new directions with meaningful missions and core values.
Apply to be on the show:
https://forms.gle/hwDijQPFyKCEtHNs8
Highlights:
"If you are not actively progressing and working towards the next level, you are either maintaining or dying."
"Designing lives that impact the world starts with deliberate choice and action."
"Culture is built by design, and we're all about designing positive changes."
"Trust is gained one drop at a time but can be lost with one swift kick."
Timestamps:
00:02 - Introduction to Rebranding
05:00 - Core Values of Next Level Pros
07:51 - Designing the Mission Statement
10:00 - The Role of Financial Success
14:08 - Realizing the Importance of the Big Picture
18:12 - Encouraging Listener Engagement
20:00 - New Format of the Show
24:45 - Defining the Core Values (NEXT)
30:00 - Defining Trust and Excellence
32:59 - Balancing Trust in Character and Ability
Want me to teach you how to grow your business? Text me! 509-374-7554
Want access to more of my content? Click the link below for all of our latest updates and events!
https://linktr.ee/nextlevelpros
Want to be a guest on our show? Apply here!https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1YlkVBSluEKMTg4gehyUOHYvBratcxHV5rt3kiWTXNC4/viewform?edit_requested=true
Watch my latest PodcastApple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-level-pros/id1687030281
Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/show/1e0cL2vI1JAtQrojSOA7D2?si=95980cd4e55a437a
YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@NextLevelPros

Sep 7, 2024 • 1h 16min
#123: Escaping the Broken Education System for Success with Jerome Maldonado
Welcome to a new episode of The Founder Podcast! Today, we're excited to have real estate investor and entrepreneur Jerome Maldonado joining us. Jerome has built an impressive $600 million real estate portfolio over the past 28 years, focusing on sustainable and workforce housing. What's fascinating about Jerome's journey is his unique perspective on working with immigrant business partners versus those from the US. He believes immigrants who aren't "jacked up" by the US education system often make better partners, as they're more eager to learn. Dive into Jerome's insights and lessons learned over his 30+ years in the industry and discover a new perspective on education.
Highlights:
"You know, what's great about America is that I love and I tell people, this is I'll take an immigrant as a business partner over somebody from the United States nine times out of 10."
"If I would have known 10 years prior that people would have really believed in me, I would have grown exponentially."
"What I caught it big is when we're going to the 2008 recession, I bought a bunch of subway stores."
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction
03:42 - Scaling Through Outside Capital
05:07 - Lessons Learned Over 28 Years in Real Estate
11:21 - Dealing with "Bottom of the Barrel" Employees
15:00 - Navigating Economic Challenges
21:00 - Dealing with Investor Emotions
24:40 - Adapting Strategies Amidst Rising Costs
27:51 - Transitioning to a More Hands-Off Role
37:59 - The Curious Case of American Food
50:16 - Jerome’s Tips for Better Relationships01:02:30 - Jerome’s Future Goals and Plans
01:12:50 - The Power of Enjoying the Now & Conclusion
Looking to scale your business? Want to learn directly from the same team that helped me sell my last business for 9 figures? Click this link below to check out how you can work with us. https://nextlevelhomepros.com/grow-home-service-vsl
Join my community - Founder Acceleration https://www.founderacceleration.com
Apply for our next Mastermind: https://www.thefoundermastermind.com
Golf with Chris: https://www.golfwithchris.com
Watch my latest Podcast
Apple- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-founder-podcast/id1687030281S
Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/show/1e0cL2vI1JAtQrojSOA7D2
YouTube - @thefounderspodcast

Sep 4, 2024 • 27min
#122: 3 Strategies to Scale Your Business to 9 Figures
Welcome to a new episode of The Founder Podcast! Today, we're thrilled to sit down with Mick Hunt from the Mick Unplugged Podcast to explore the essence of entrepreneurship. Together, we dive into why culture is the cornerstone of any successful business. We discuss the challenges that most entrepreneurs face, including the importance of understanding your business identity, the true competition entrepreneurs face, and how focusing on people over profits can lead to transformational success. Whether you're just starting out or scaling up, this episode is packed with actionable insights to elevate your entrepreneurial journey.
Highlights:"You're not in competition with anyone but the pain you’re solving for your customers."
"Culture isn't just something; it is the only thing."
"Success is not a destination; success is a trajectory, and there is always a next level."
Timestamps:00:01 - Welcome & Introduction02:06 - Chris’ Deeper Reason Behind His Entrepreneurial Journey.04:27 - Changing Society Through Entrepreneurship06:41 - Common Mistakes in Scaling09:13 - The Pricing Dilemma14:41 - Business Identity & Competition20:58 - The Power of Culture In Business23:15 - Building Culture by Design25:22 - Chris' Platform & Rebrand26:27 - Final Thoughts
Join my community - Founder Acceleration https://www.founderacceleration.com
Apply for our next Mastermind: https://www.thefoundermastermind.com Golf with Chris: https://www.golfwithchris.com
Watch my latest PodcastApple- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-founder-podcast/id1687030281S Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/show/1e0cL2vI1JAtQrojSOA7D2 YouTube - @thefounderspodcast

Aug 22, 2024 • 39min
#121: What's the Craze All About? Wyatt Ewing Founder of Ice Barrel
Welcome to a new episode of The Founder Podcast! Join us today as we sit down with the innovative founder of Ice Barrel, Wyatt Ewing. He shares his journey from discovering the benefits of cold therapy out of personal necessity to creating a multi-million dollar business around the concept. Whether you're a startup enthusiast or just curious about the impact of cold therapy, this episode is packed with insights on entrepreneurship, resilience, and health.
https://nextlevelhomepros.com/june25thworkshop
Highlights:
"It boosts your mood and your energy levels in just two minutes a day... Cold therapy is incredible for reducing inflammation and resetting the nervous system."
"I had terrible anxiety from childhood... Cold showers and ice baths were the only thing that brought significant and sustainable improvement."
“The key to success in this space is to build a real business that's resilient and adaptable."
Timestamps:
00:00 - Wyatt's Journey into Cold Therapy
02:27 - Discovering the Benefits of Cold Showers
05:13 - Transitioning from Corporate Aircraft Sales to Ice Barrel
07:15 - Scaling the Business from the Garage to Ohio
09:15 - Breakthrough Moments in Marketing, Sales, and Manufacturing
12:10 - Successful Go-to-Market Strategy
14:15 - The Science and Benefits of Cold Therapy
20:00 - Wyatt's Daily Cold Therapy Routine
27:43 - Emerging Biohacking Technologies and Trends
35:43 - The Future of Ice Barrel and Advice for Entrepreneurs
Looking to scale your business? Want to learn directly from the same team that helped me sell my last business for 9 figures? Click this link below to check out how you can work with us. https://nextlevelhomepros.com/grow-home-service-vsl
Join my community - Founder Acceleration https://www.founderacceleration.com
Apply for our next Mastermind: https://www.thefoundermastermind.com
Golf with Chris: https://www.golfwithchris.com
Watch my latest Podcast
Apple- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-founder-podcast/id1687030281S
Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/show/1e0cL2vI1JAtQrojSOA7D2
YouTube - @thefounderspodcast

6 snips
Aug 16, 2024 • 32min
#120: Personal Brand Building 101
Joseph Shalaby, founder of E Mortgage Capital, shares his insights on the vital role of personal branding in the competitive loan origination industry. He emphasizes that without a personal brand, businesses risk being left behind. Joseph discusses innovative lead generation strategies for 2024, the importance of an in-house marketing team, and the unexpected perks that come with building a strong brand. He also shares the 'rule of seven hours' for engaging content creation, highlighting how this fosters deeper connections with audiences.

Aug 9, 2024 • 30min
#119: How to Do More of What You Love
Welcome to a new episode of The Founder Podcast! Today, Chris and Daryl dive into a crucial topic for any entrepreneur—how to manage energy and maximize efficiency by identifying tasks that should be outsourced. They discuss the importance of focusing on activities that not only excite you but also play to your strengths, transforming how you approach work and life. This episode explores strategies for auditing your time, understanding the value of different tasks, and prioritizing what truly matters to energize your daily routine.
https://nextlevelhomepros.com/june25thworkshop
Highlights:
"Identify what you need to outsource so you can focus on what gets you most excited."
"If it's low energy and you can hire it out, why keep it on your plate?"
"We need to be trading up, always aiming to operate in our quadrant four."
"The energy matrix helps you identify what truly matters in your work and life."
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction to Energy and Efficiency
02:49 - Discussing High Energy and Low Energy Tasks
05:00 - The Importance of Delegating Unwanted Tasks
08:40 - Introducing the Energy Matrix and Time Audit
10:04 - Calculating the Value of Your Time
13:15 - Applying the Matrix to Real Business Scenarios
16:27 - Strategies for Eliminating Low-Value Tasks
20:00 - Balancing Personal Satisfaction with Professional Efficiency
23:48 - Hiring Passion vs. Hiring Desperation
26:44 - Engaging in High Energy, Low Value Activities
Looking to scale your business? Want to learn directly from the same team that helped me sell my last business for 9 figures? Click this link below to check out how you can work with us. https://nextlevelhomepros.com/grow-home-service-vsl
Join my community - Founder Acceleration https://www.founderacceleration.com
Apply for our next Mastermind: https://www.thefoundermastermind.com
Golf with Chris: https://www.golfwithchris.com
Watch my latest Podcast
Apple- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-founder-podcast/id1687030281S
Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/show/1e0cL2vI1JAtQrojSOA7D2
YouTube - @thefounderspodcast

Aug 1, 2024 • 26min
#118: How to run weekly, monthly and quarterly meetings
Welcome to a new episode of The Founder Podcast! This episode is all about the importance of consistent and structured meetings to build a strong organizational culture. Chris discusses the critical components of planning and executing effective meetings at various levels within your company, from daily check-ins to annual executive retreats. This episode is packed with actionable insights on how to establish a rhythm of accountability, goal setting, and problem-solving to drive your business forward.
https://nextlevelhomepros.com/june25thworkshop
Highlights:
"One of the most important things in establishing a great culture is consistency."
"Weekly trainings in every single department should be happening once a week in conjunction with your daily check-ins."
"In your monthly finance meetings, create a 13-week cashflow projection to make plans."
"During your annual executive planning, get away, get offsite, and spend three days really dialling in on goals and budgets."
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Importance of Consistency
01:01 Weekly Meeting Structure
02:05 Management Team Meetings
04:09 Monthly Financial Meetings
05:34 Executive Goals and Forecasting
09:10 Quarterly Leadership Retreats
12:40 Quarterly Budget and Green Hat Meetings
14:01 Safety, Compliance, and Customer Experience
15:39 Annual Kickoff and Executive Planning
22:06 Company Trips and Conclusion
Looking to scale your business? Want to learn directly from the same team that helped me sell my last business for 9 figures? Click this link below to check out how you can work with us.
https://nextlevelhomepros.com/grow-home-service-vsl
Join my community - Founder Acceleration https://www.founderacceleration.com
Apply for our next Mastermind: https://www.thefoundermastermind.com
Golf with Chris:
https://www.golfwithchris.com
Watch my latest Podcast
Apple- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-founder-podcast/id1687030281S
Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/show/1e0cL2vI1JAtQrojSOA7D2
YouTube - @thefounderspodcast

10 snips
Jul 26, 2024 • 35min
#117: How to Design Your Org Chart
Explore the innovative concept of accountability charts, which prioritize roles and processes over traditional hierarchy. Discover practical steps to design a chart tailored to your business's growth ambitions. Learn how defining responsibilities can enhance communication and performance. There's a focus on strategic planning to achieve ambitious revenue goals. Plus, insights on developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for sustained success make this an invaluable guide for any business leader.

Jul 20, 2024 • 32min
#116: Life After a 9-Figure Exit
https://nextlevelhomepros.com/june25thworkshop
Welcome to a new episode of The Founder Podcast! In this episode, Chris and Levi discuss the journey from running a successful business to navigating the complexities of a nine-figure exit. They share personal stories and lessons learned during this major life transition. The conversation touches on the emotional and practical aspects of stepping away from a daily operational role, dealing with sudden wealth, and finding new purpose and motivation.
Highlights:"What would you do if one day you sold your business for millions of dollars and the next day you woke up with that kind of money in your bank account?"
"It felt like it was always six months out... there's just so many things that you just can't account for."
"I went from working 60 hours a week to zero, essentially zero."
"Ultimately, that's where The Founder Podcast was born because I'm like, Dude, I need something that gets me excited and gets me out of bed."
Timestamps:00:00 - Selling a Business and Waking Up with Millions02:36 - Believing in the Vision from the Beginning04:13 - Balancing Risk and Reward in the Exit Decision06:25 - The Long Process of Preparing for a Transaction09:58 - The Emotional Toll of Leaving a Business Behind13:28 - Leveraging the Podcast to Connect with Other Entrepreneurs16:29 - Designing a Program to Help Business Owners Grow20:24 - Seeing the Impact of the Coaching Program26:12 - Offering Different Levels of Engagement and Support30:02 - The Power of Community and Networking in the Program
Looking to scale your business? Want to learn directly from the same team that helped me sell my last business for 9 figures? Click this link below to check out how you can work with us.
https://nextlevelhomepros.com/grow-home-service-vsl
Join my community - Founder Acceleration https://www.founderacceleration.com
Apply for our next Mastermind:
https://www.thefoundermastermind.com/
Golf with Chris: https://www.golfwithchris.com
Watch my latest PodcastApple- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-founder-podcast/id1687030281S Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/show/1e0cL2vI1JAtQrojSOA7D2 YouTube - @thefounderspodcast
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