
The Necessary Entrepreneur
Highlighting the stories of the world’s brightest and most successful entrepreneurs while inspiring the next generation!
Latest episodes

Oct 14, 2024 • 1h 17min
#108 - Johnny Chu - CEO, KungFood Chu's AmerAsia
Welcome to the Necessary Entrepreneur Podcast! Today, we have an exciting guest who embodies innovation and resilience in the culinary world: Johnny Chu, the CEO of KungFood Chu's Amerasia. With a passion for blending traditional flavors and modern techniques, Johnny has transformed his family business into a thriving brand known for its unique approach to Asian cuisine. Under his leadership, KungFood Chu's has not only expanded its menu but also embraced sustainability and community engagement. During the conversation we talk about Johnny's family immigrating to the US from Taiwan when Johnny was 10 years old and the cultureal differences his family recognized. We also talk learning compassion and patience, shaping your mind every day, seeking to understand, and making the decision of "what do we want?". Stick around as Johnny talks about the KungFood approach and the proper way to brew tea. Find out more about KungFood Chu's AmerAsia: https://kungfood.online/ https://www.facebook.com/KungFoodChu/ https://www.instagram.com/kungfoodchu/ Find out more about Johnny Chu: https://www.facebook.com/jxchu Find out more about KungBrew Cafe: https://www.instagram.com/kungbrewcafe/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555964825920 https://sites.google.com/view/kungbrew-cafe/home Connect With Us: Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips

Sep 30, 2024 • 1h 56min
#107 - Rick & Joni Paynter - The Kentucky Shop
The Necessary Entrepreneur welcomes Rick & Joni Paynter, the dynamic duo behind The Kentucky Shop. With a passion for showcasing the rich culture and craftsmanship of Kentucky, they’ve created a unique retail experience that celebrates local artisans and products. Rick and Joni are not just business partners; they’re a husband-and-wife team dedicated to supporting their community and fostering connections through their carefully curated offerings with a commitment to quality and authenticity. During the conversation, Rick & Joni talk about working festivals and fairs while launching The Kentucky Shop, being responsible for employees as entrepreneurs, the importance of a good support system, and direct-to-garment screen printing. Stick around as Rick talks about doing comedy on TikTok as The Kentucky Dad. Find out more about The Kentucky Shop: https://thekyshop.com/ https://www.facebook.com/ShopLocalKy https://www.instagram.com/shoplocalky/ https://www.tiktok.com/@shoplocalky https://www.youtube.com/@shoplocalky Find out more about Rick & Joni Paynter: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickpaynter/ https://www.instagram.com/thekydad/ https://www.facebook.com/RickPaynter2 https://www.instagram.com/jonipaynter https://www.facebook.com/jonipaynter Connect With Us: Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips

Sep 23, 2024 • 1h 41min
#106 - Dr. Carl & Terri Paige - Founders, Medical Transformation Center
The Necessary Entrepreneur welcomes two extraordinary guests who are making waves in the healthcare industry: Dr. Carl Paige and Terri Paige of Medical Transformation Center in Louisville, KY. Dr. Carl Paige is not just a physician; he’s a trailblazer in medical innovation. With extensive experience in clinical practice, he has dedicated his career to improving patient outcomes through creative solutions and transformative healthcare practices. Joining him is Terri Paige, a powerhouse in healthcare entrepreneurship and management. Her strategic vision and expertise have been pivotal in advancing the Medical Transformation Center's mission to enhance the patient experience and streamline healthcare delivery. Together, Carl and Terri are reshaping the future of healthcare by merging medical knowledge with entrepreneurial innovation. Their insights into the intersection of these fields are invaluable, and we're excited to explore their journey, the challenges they’ve encountered, and their bold vision for a healthier tomorrow. During the conversation we discuss owning your own health, the yeast elimination diet, functional medicine, how sugar has been weaponized as high fructose corn syrup, and where to start to begin a healthier lifestyle. Stick around as Dr Carl & Terri tell the story of their cross country road trip to California to purchase a car that also supposedly belonged to Katherine Heigl. Find out more about Medical Transformation Center: https://medicaltransformationcenter.com/ https://www.facebook.com/medicaltransformationcenter/ https://www.instagram.com/medicaltransformationcenter/?hl=en https://www.linkedin.com/company/medical-transformation-center/ https://regenavita.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@medicaltransformationcenter Find out more about Dr Carl Paige & Terri Paige: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlpaigemtc/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/terri-paige-46b90b68/ https://www.facebook.com/terri.paige.9 https://www.instagram.com/terri.paige/?hl=en Connect With Us: Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips

Sep 16, 2024 • 1h 12min
#105 - Shane Kidwell & Kyle Draper - Co-Founders, The Collective Coaching
The Necessary Entrepreneur welcomes Shane Kidwell and Kyle Draper, the dynamic duo behind The Collective Coaching. Shane and Kyle are not just coaches; they’re visionaries who understand that entrepreneurship isn’t just about scaling a business but also about scaling oneself. Shane brings a wealth of experience with his background in leadership development and strategic growth, while Kyle’s expertise in high-performance coaching complements their mission to help entrepreneurs reach their full potential. Together, they’ve created a powerful platform that empowers individuals and organizations to transform their approach and elevate their impact. Today, Shane and Kyle will share their unique insights on building a thriving business and personal growth. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, you’re in for a treat as they delve into practical strategies, share compelling stories, and offer actionable advice that you can apply to your own journey. Find out more about Shane Kidwell https://www.liinks.co/shanerkidwell Find out more about Kyle Draper https://linktr.ee/coachkyledraper Find out more about The Collective Coaching https://www.linkedin.com/company/collectivecoaching/ https://www.facebook.com/TheCollectiveCoachings https://www.instagram.com/thecollectivecoachingcommunity/?hl=en https://www.tiktok.com/@thecollectivecoaching https://www.youtube.com/@TheCollectiveCoaching Connect With Us: Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips

Sep 9, 2024 • 1h 13min
#104 - Liz Toombs, C.I.D. - CEO, PDR Interiors
The Necessary Entrepreneur welcomes Certified Interior Designer and founder of PDR Interiors, Liz Toombs. Liz isn’t just your average decorator—she’s the sorority house whisperer! With her PDR Interiors team, Liz has transformed over 100 college campuses across 25 states into stunning spaces that sisters proudly call home. A seasoned leader in the decorating world for the past 15 years, Liz’s journey began at the University of Kentucky, where she’s an alumna of Alpha Gamma Delta. Her passion for mentoring women stems from her own Greek life experiences, driving her dedication to enhancing sorority housing projects and preserving the cherished sisterhood atmosphere. Liz isn’t just behind the scenes; she’s a trusted voice in the media spotlight, offering insights featured in The Wall Street Journal, The Huffington Post, The Associated Press, and Realtor.com. Her expertise even caught the attention of MSNBC’s “Your Business,” showcasing her knack for business savvy. But Liz’s impact doesn’t stop there. In tribute to her late mother, Liz established The Mary Estes Memorial Scholarship at the University of Kentucky, providing support to students who have lost a parent to cancer—an initiative close to her heart. During the conversation, Mark & Liz talk about selling without having to sell, examining losses, seeking out criticism, and the importance of personal connections. Stick around as Liz talks about her favorite concert, her favorite place to visit, an upcoming vacation to Greece, and how the life of an interior designer isn’t how it appears on television. Find out more about Liz Toombs & PDR Interiors: www.pdr-interiors.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-t-68b3176/ https://www.instagram.com/pdrinteriors/ https://www.tiktok.com/@pdr_interiors Connect With Us: Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips

Sep 3, 2024 • 1h 36min
#103 - Jason Staats - CEO, SUN Behavioral Health
Welcome back to the Necessary Entrepreneur Podcast, where we explore the insights and experiences of trailblazers in the business world. Today, we have the privilege of speaking with a remarkable leader whose impact on mental health care is both profound and transformative. Joining us is Jason Staats, the CEO of SUN Behavioral Health- a psychiatric hospital providing mental health and substance use recovery services in Kentucky, Ohio, Texas, & Delaware. In his CEO role with SUN Kentucky, Jason leads a team of over 300 in the Erlanger & Lexington markets in Kentucky placing an emphasis on patient-centered practices leading his teams toward strong patient outcomes and operational success. During the conversation, Mark & Jason talk about social media and mental health regarding kids, hope vs hopelessness, marketing "a way out" and being optimistic that change is possible. Jason also talks about the perspective of positive intent, the non-standardization on mental health from state to state, and the lack of sober living facilities for mental health. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or simply passionate about the future of mental health care, this conversation promises to be both inspiring and enlightening. Find out more about Jason Staats & SUN Behavioral Health: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-staats-1a3376149/ https://sunkentucky.com/ https://www.facebook.com/SUNKentucky Connect With Us: Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips

Aug 26, 2024 • 1h 4min
#102 - Richard Ross - CEO, Quinn Residences
Welcome to the Necessary Entrepreneur Podcast, where we dive deep into the stories and strategies of the visionaries shaping the business world today. I’m thrilled to introduce our esteemed guest, Richard Ross, the dynamic CEO of Quinn Residences. Quinn Residences is a real estate operating company focused on acquiring, developing, and operating dedicated rental communities in the Southeast United States. With a career spanning four decades in the real estate industry, Richard Ross continues to use his knowledge and expertise to fulfill Quinn Residences' mission of creating inclusive communities that enhance residents' lives and make quality housing more accessible. Since starting in 2020, Quinn Residences has grown its portfolio to over 5,200 homes in 39 communities. During the conversation we discuss the population of “renters by choice”, the no maintenance lifestyle, and what “fun” means. Richard also talks about not having a relationship with regret, the “trust your gut” philosophy, and doing the next thing right. Find out more about Richard Ross & Quinn Residences: https://live-quinn.com/ https://www.facebook.com/quinnresidences https://www.instagram.com/quinnresidences?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== https://www.linkedin.com/company/quinn-residences/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardrossquinn/ Connect With Us: Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips

Aug 19, 2024 • 1h 39min
#101 - Tony Wright & Rachelle Wright - Kentucky Farm Life
Welcome to 'The Necessary Entrepreneur' podcast, where we dive deep into the stories and strategies of those who are making waves in the world of business. Today, we have a dynamic duo joining us who are not only redefining rural entrepreneurship but also embracing the spirit of adventure with a unique blend of passion and innovation. Meet Tony Wright and Rachelle Wright, the creative minds behind Kentucky Farm Life and Roadtripzee. From the picturesque landscapes of Kentucky, Tony and Rachelle have been transforming their farming roots into a thriving business, bridging the gap between traditional agriculture and modern entrepreneurial ventures. Their journey is a testament to the power of combining heritage with innovation. Kentucky Farm Life is not just about agriculture; it’s a celebration of a way of life, showcasing the beauty of farm living and the value of sustainable practices. Through their engaging content and community-driven approach, they’ve built a platform that connects with audiences who appreciate the richness of rural life. But that's not all – Tony and Rachelle are also the driving force behind Roadtripzee, a venture that merges their love for exploration with their entrepreneurial spirit. Roadtripzee offers a fresh perspective on travel, blending practical advice with captivating stories from the road, making every journey an adventure worth sharing across all 50 states. Join us as we explore Tony and Rachelle’s entrepreneurial journey, their innovative approaches to blending farm life with modern business, and how they’ve managed to turn their passions into successful enterprises. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or simply curious about the intersection of tradition and innovation, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Find out more about Kentucky Farm Life: https://kentuckyfarmlife.com/https://www.facebook.com/kentuckyfarmlife https://www.instagram.com/kentuckyfarmlife https://www.tiktok.com/@kentuckyfarmlife https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSKxiSlrR620Uq0iWQLFq2w Find out moe about Roadtripzee: https://roadtripzee.com/https://www.facebook.com/roadtripzee https://www.instagram.com/roadtripzee/ Find out more about Kentucky Content: https://kentuckycontent.com/https://www.facebook.com/kentuckycontent Connect With Us: Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips

Aug 12, 2024 • 1h 34min
#100 - Jeff Chandler - Founder & CEO, ZJAK Technologies
Welcome to the Necessary Entrepreneur Podcast, where we dive deep into the stories and strategies behind today’s most innovative and impactful entrepreneurs. I’m thrilled to introduce our guest for this episode, Jeff Chandler, the visionary founder and CEO of Z-Jak Technologies. Jeff Chandler has been at the forefront of technological innovation, steering Z-Jak Technologies to become a leading player in the tech industry. With a background in software development and a passion for cutting-edge solutions, Jeff’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and strategic thinking in the entrepreneurial world. Under Jeff’s leadership, Z-Jak Technologies has delivered groundbreaking solutions that address some of the most pressing challenges in the tech landscape. His commitment to excellence and forward-thinking approach has not only driven the success of his company but has also set new standards in the industry. In this episode, we’ll explore Jeff’s entrepreneurial journey beginning with writing programs for car dealerships in the infancy of computer technology, starting a software company in the 90s, his insights on navigating the tech industry, systemizing your business, and the future trends he’s most excited about. Stick around as Jeff talks about balancing ideas in business, the Mac vs PC debate, and a deep dive into ransomware. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a tech enthusiast, or simply curious about the latest in technology, you’re in for an engaging and inspiring conversation. Find out more about Jeff Chandler & Z-JAK Technologies: https://zjak.net https://www.linkedin.com/company/zjaktech https://www.youtube.com/c/ZJAKTech https://www.facebook.com/zjaktech https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-chandler-louky/ Order a copy of "Hacked! What You Must Know Now to Protect Your Business Financials, Customer Data, and Reputation from Cybercriminals" https://www.hackedbook.com/ Connect With Us: Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips

Aug 5, 2024 • 52min
#99 - Frank Kabatas - Owner, East Village Pizza
Welcome to another exciting episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur Podcast, where we delve into the inspiring stories and insights of those who dare to dream big and take bold steps in the world of business. Today, we have a very special guest with us—a true culinary artist and a dedicated entrepreneur who has made a significant mark in the heart of New York City. Joining us is Frank Kabatas, the visionary owner of East Village Pizza. Located in the vibrant East Village, Frank's pizzeria has become a beloved staple for both locals and visitors alike. His journey from a passionate pizza enthusiast to a successful business owner is nothing short of inspiring. Frank's dedication to quality, innovation, and community has set East Village Pizza apart in a city renowned for its competitive food scene. From perfecting the art of the classic New York slice to introducing unique and creative flavors, Frank's commitment to excellence shines through in every bite. Today, we dive into Frank's entrepreneurial journey, exploring the challenges he faced, the strategies he employed, and the lessons he's learned along the way. We also talk about the three most important things to make a great pizza, doing things the right way, taking things seriously, the price you pay to succeed in business, and the importance of culture. Stick around as Frank discusses whether or not pineapple should be on pizza. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or simply a pizza lover, Frank's story is sure to inspire and motivate. Find out more about East Village Pizza: https://www.eastvillagepizza.net https://www.instagram.com/eastvillagepizza/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/eastvillagepizzahttps://www.tiktok.com/@eastvillagepizza?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc https://x.com/EVpizza?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3evqhHb1aeeTFLOfCQUujp8XH-8gKdmWwIR-2cxZEUp29CHwohqnF7qTk_aem_mE9A7Vo8qMWEOpLeUXEDVA Find out more about Frank Kabatas: https://www.instagram.com/thepizzamanofnyc/?hl=enhttps://www.tiktok.com/@thepizzamanofnyc?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc https://www.facebook.com/Frkabatas Connect With Us: Website: https://www.thenecessaryentrepreneur.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenecessaryentrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenecessaryentrepreneur/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNecessaryEntrepreneurPod X (Formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/MPerkinsTNE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tnepod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tneclips
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