The Circuit of Success Podcast with Brett Gilliland

Founded by best friends Jess Blakley and Willow Sprague, BarBees is a mobile cocktail class company shaking things up with private groups in eleven locations nationwide and virtually. In January 2024, the founders took BarBees to ABC’s Shark Tank, negotiating a deal with guest Shark and founder of KIND, Daniel Lubetzky. BarBees creates memorable and connective experiences through cocktails. Whether it’s a corporate team building or bachelorette party, you’ll walk away from a BarBees cocktail class with drinks in hand, a new skill in your back pocket, and a deeper connection with your classmates!     In the world of entrepreneurship, success stories often begin with a unique idea and a relentless drive to turn it into reality. In this episode of Brett Gilliland’s podcast, we dive into the inspiring journey of Jess Blakley and Willow Sprague, the founders of BarBees, a mobile and virtual cocktail class company. From their humble beginnings to their appearance on Shark Tank, Jess and Willow share their experiences, lessons learned, and the importance of resilience, teamwork, and confidence in building a successful business. The road to Shark Tank is not an easy one, and Jess and Willow knew they had to be well-prepared to make a lasting impression on the Sharks. They emphasize the rigorous preparation they underwent, from refining their pitch to anticipating tough questions. The nerve-wracking experience of pitching to the Sharks was both challenging and rewarding, as they secured a deal with guest shark Daniel Lubetzky. Their success on Shark Tank serves as a testament to the importance of confidence and belief in one’s business. One key aspect that Jess and Willow highlight is the significance of investing in expertise. They discuss how utilizing Google Ads played a crucial role in their business growth. By leveraging the power of online advertising, they were able to reach a wider audience and attract more customers. This investment in expertise not only helped them expand their business but also solidified their credibility in the industry. Entrepreneurship is a rollercoaster ride, filled with ups and downs. Jess and Willow stress the importance of resilience and quickly bouncing back from setbacks. They share their experiences of facing challenges head-on and learning from their mistakes. By embracing failure as a learning opportunity, they were able to adapt and grow their business. Their story serves as a reminder that setbacks are not roadblocks but stepping stones toward success. Behind every successful business, there is often a supportive partner. Jess and Willow emphasize the importance of having a partner who shares the same vision and values. They highlight the significance of effective communication, trust, and knowing each other’s strengths. Their partnership strengthens their business and provides a solid foundation for personal growth and fulfillment. At the heart of BarBees is the desire to create memorable experiences for their clients and friends. Jess and Willow discuss the impact of shared activities and effective communication in building lasting connections. Their unique virtual reality bartending classes offered by Go Barbies provide an immersive and interactive experience that sets them apart from traditional cocktail classes. By focusing on creating unforgettable moments, they have built a loyal customer base and a strong reputation in the industry. The journey of Jess Blakley and Willow Sprague, founders of BarBees, is a testament to the power of resilience, teamwork, and confidence in building a successful business. From their appearance on Shark Tank to their investment in expertise and the importance of a supportive partner, their story is filled with valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs. By creating memorable experiences and embracing challenges, Jess and Willow have carved a unique niche in the mobile cocktail class industry. Their story serves as an inspiration for anyone looking to turn their passion into a thriving business. Interview with BarBees

Brett Gilliland sits down with William A. Wallace, a former Special Operations Army Veteran and the President and Executive Director of the Missouri Veterans Endeavor (MOVE). With a passion for helping veterans readjust and overcome PTSD, Wallace shares his insights and experiences in supporting homeless veterans. Join us as we delve into the importance of mental health support, the impact of war, and the unique programs offered by MOVE. https://www.move-stl.org/ Wallace’s journey began with an internship at the Culver City Vet Center, where he gained valuable experience in counseling and readjustment. His dedication to helping veterans led him to work at the West Los Angeles Veterans Administration Medical Center and U.S. VETS – Long Beach. Eventually, he opened the Missouri Veterans Endeavor (MOVE) in St. Louis, providing tailored services to homeless veterans. As a Marriage and Family Therapist with a specialization in Veteran-specific issues, Wallace emphasizes the significance of mental health support for veterans. He shares his expertise in helping veterans overcome PTSD and readjust to civilian life. Through MOVE, Wallace ensures that veterans have access to pro bono therapy, making a significant impact on their well-being. Drawing from his personal experience as a Special Operations Army Veteran, Wallace sheds light on the profound impact of war on veterans. He shares his deployment experiences in Panama and as a UN and NATO Peacekeeper in Bosnia, highlighting the need for decompression and support upon returning home. MOVE stands out for its comprehensive approach to supporting homeless veterans. Wallace and his team provide housing, therapy, and community programs tailored to the individual needs of each veteran. Through private funding and community donations, MOVE ensures that veterans receive the support they need to reintegrate successfully into society. What sets Wallace apart is not only his professional background but also his unique experiences as an actor in films like Delta Force and Beverly Hills Cop. This diverse background allows him to relate to veterans on multiple levels, fostering understanding and empathy in his work. William A. Wallace’s dedication to supporting homeless veterans is truly inspiring. Through his role as the President and Executive Director of MOVE, he is making a significant impact on the lives of veterans in Missouri. By providing tailored programs, mental health support, and a sense of community, MOVE is helping veterans reintegrate successfully into society. Check out the conversation on Youtube:

  David Schectman, a Partner at Evolution, is a highly regarded coach who specializes in helping CEOs, high-potential leaders, and successful sales professionals achieve transformative change. With his unparalleled ability to cut through complexity and fear, David empowers his clients to move forward with focus and confidence. With over two decades of experience in executive coaching, organizational consulting, and leadership-team advisory work, David has established himself as a trusted advisor in the industry. David’s coaching approach centers around the concept of Deep Change, challenging his clients to push beyond self-imposed limitations and make a positive impact on the world. He firmly believes that business can be a vehicle for personal development, professional growth, and social good. By guiding his clients through the fog of complexity, confusion, and fear, David helps them gain clarity and confidence to create meaningful change in their lives and organizations. Throughout his career, David has worked with numerous successful and iconic companies, including Slack, Twitter, Electronic Arts, Coursera, and Medtronic, among others. His extensive experience in executive coaching, organizational consulting, and leadership-team advisory work has equipped him with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by leaders in today’s fast-paced business landscape. Education and Certifications: David’s educational background includes a Master of Science in Organization Development from Pepperdine University. He has also earned several valuable certifications, including the Professional Certified Coach (PCC), the International Board Director Competency Designation (IBDC.D), and the Enneagram in Business. These certifications further enhance his ability to guide and support his clients on their journey toward personal and professional growth. David Schectman’s expertise as a coach, combined with his passion for guiding leaders toward deep change, has made him a sought-after advisor in the industry. With his ability to cut through complexity and fear, David empowers his clients to move forward with focus and confidence. His work with successful companies and his commitment to personal development and social good make him a valuable asset to any leader seeking transformative change. As a regular speaker, writer, and podcast guest, David continues to share his insights and inspire others to push beyond their limitations and create a better world through business. Check out the YouTube interview here: Master Change  

A Gritty Entrepreneur and Adventurer Reid Tileston is a true embodiment of the “grit it done” mentality. With 15 years of entrepreneurial business ownership experience, Reid has acquired, grown, and sold four companies, making him a seasoned expert in the field. He is also the author of the upcoming book, “Grit It Done: Self-Funded Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition,” where he shares his valuable insights and knowledge. Aside from his business ventures, Reid is a certified Heart Zones Trainer, Ironman finisher, and multi-sport adventure racer. His passion for health and fitness led him to start and operate a chain of fitness clubs in Northern California, which he still manages today. Reid’s dedication to helping people get more out of their lives extends beyond the workplace. He is the founder of Quest for Adventure, a non-profit organization that raises scholarship money for students aspiring to pursue careers in fitness. Reid’s adventurous spirit is not limited to entrepreneurship. He is an Ironman 140.6 distance triathlete, mountaineer, and award-winning public speaker. Living in San Francisco, California, Reid continues to train, work with Heart Zones, Inc., and manage his health club, all while inspiring others to embrace challenges and find fulfillment in their personal and professional lives. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn from Reid’s incredible journey and gain valuable insights into entrepreneurship, leadership, and personal growth. Stay tuned for his upcoming book, “Grit It Done: Self-Funded Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition,” and be inspired to take on challenges with determination and resilience. Brett Gilliland sits down with the remarkable Reid Tileston to delve into the world of business ownership, leadership, and personal fulfillment. Reid’s extensive experience in acquiring, growing, and selling companies, combined with his academic research, provides a wealth of knowledge for aspiring entrepreneurs. His upcoming book, “Grit It Done: Self-Funded Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition,” is sure to be a valuable resource for those looking to embark on their own entrepreneurial journey. Throughout the conversation, Reid emphasizes the importance of self-assessment and having a clear life plan before venturing into entrepreneurship. He shares insights on buying small businesses, teaching leadership through acquisition, and conducting research on seller fulfillment. Reid also highlights the significance of collaboration, aligning values in business, and stepping outside one’s comfort zone for increased fulfillment. Listeners will be inspired by his journey from finance to successful business ownership, showcasing the rewards of taking risks, doing hard things, and embracing challenges for personal and professional growth.  

In a world where success is often equated with financial achievements, entrepreneur Aaron Marcum shares his journey of finding sustainable happiness and well-being amidst the pressures of scaling multi-million dollar businesses. Through his unique blend of entrepreneurial expertise and positive psychology background, Aaron has developed strategies to eliminate unhealthy stress, flourish personally, and create “The Good Life.” In this podcast episode, hosted by Brett Gilliland, Aaron imparts valuable insights on achieving growth and fulfillment while staying true to one’s calling. Aaron Marcum is a seasoned entrepreneur who has founded and scaled several multi-million dollar businesses. However, despite reaching financial success in 2015, he found himself burned out and struggling to find sustainable happiness. Determined to make a change, Aaron embarked on a transformative journey that led him to pursue a Master of Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania, studying under the guidance of Dr. Martin Seligman, the father of positive psychology. This unique combination of entrepreneurial expertise and positive psychology knowledge has allowed Aaron to develop the entrepreneurs’ eight laws, a framework designed to help entrepreneurs achieve happy, satisfying, and meaningful lives. YouTube Interview: Become A Happier Entrepreneur Download your EntreThrive™ EntreClarity Guide™, a powerful tool designed to help entrepreneurs create their Guiding Truths, which are personal principles and beliefs that guide decisions and actions. Follow The Link: https://www.entrethrive.com/circuitofsuccess The EntreThrive Approach: Aaron’s upcoming book, EntreThrive, serves as a comprehensive guide for entrepreneurs seeking to align their passion with purpose and achieve both professional success and personal well-being. Through his keynotes, EntreCircle Masterlearning forums, and courses, Aaron shares practical strategies and insights to help entrepreneurs thrive in all aspects of their lives. Delegation and Letting Go of Control: One of the key principles Aaron emphasizes is the importance of delegation. As entrepreneurs, it can be tempting to hold onto control and micromanage every aspect of our businesses. However, Aaron highlights the need to trust and empower others, allowing them to take on responsibilities and contribute to the growth of the company. By delegating effectively, entrepreneurs can free up their time and energy to focus on strategic decision-making and personal growth. Aaron firmly believes that personal well-being is the foundation for entrepreneurial success. He encourages entrepreneurs to implement practices like meditation and journaling to cultivate mindfulness and self-reflection. By taking care of their mental and emotional well-being, entrepreneurs can enhance their creativity, resilience, and overall performance. Structuring Time for Productivity: Another key aspect of Aaron’s approach is structuring time effectively. He emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and creating a schedule that allows for focused work, rest, and rejuvenation. By optimizing their time, entrepreneurs can increase productivity, reduce burnout, and achieve a better work-life balance. Aaron also emphasizes the significance of setting guiding truths to make decisions aligned with personal values and goals. By establishing a clear vision and purpose, entrepreneurs can make choices that lead to long-term fulfillment and success. He encourages entrepreneurs to prioritize knowledge acquisition and personal growth, leveraging positive psychology principles to make informed decisions. Aaron Marcum’s journey from burnout to well-being serves as an inspiration for entrepreneurs seeking a balance between professional success and personal fulfillment. Through his entrepreneurial expertise and positive psychology background, Aaron provides valuable insights and strategies to help entrepreneurs thrive in all aspects of their lives. By prioritizing well-being, delegating effectively, and making decisions based on knowledge and personal growth, entrepreneurs can achieve growth, happiness, and a meaningful life.

Brett Gilliland interviews Brent Pohlman, the CEO of Midwest Laboratories, motivational speaker, and the author of Leaders Look Within. Pohlman’s journey from starting as a teenager at the company to becoming CEO in 2016 is a testament to his commitment to personal growth, leadership, and team building. In this episode, we delve into Pohlman’s emphasis on understanding people, processes, and technology for project planning success. We will also explore his insights on building trust, setting a clear vision, and embracing imperfection for growth. If you are looking to find your inner CEO and lead from the front, this is for you! Pohlman’s success at Midwest Laboratories is rooted in his belief that effective leadership starts with understanding people, processes, and technology, in that order. He emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships and creating a positive work environment. By being present, showing care, and building trust within his team, Pohlman has fostered a culture of collaboration and growth. Pohlman stresses the significance of setting a clear vision and mission for the organization. He ensures that each team member understands their role in achieving success by aligning everyone toward a common goal. Pohlman’s focus on culture and personalizing interactions further strengthens the team’s commitment to the vision, fostering a sense of purpose and unity. One of the most valuable insights shared by Pohlman is the importance of embracing imperfection for growth. He encourages proactive self-reflection during challenges, recognizing that mistakes and failures are opportunities for learning and improvement. By creating a safe space for his team to make mistakes and learn from them, Pohlman has fostered a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. Brent Pohlman’s journey from a young employee to CEO of Midwest Laboratories is a testament to his commitment to personal growth, leadership, and team building. His emphasis on understanding people, processes, and technology, along with his focus on building trust and setting a clear vision, has led to a positive work environment and organizational success. Pohlman’s insights on embracing imperfection for growth further highlight his dedication to continuous improvement. Aspiring leaders can learn valuable lessons from Pohlman’s journey and leadership philosophy, as he exemplifies the importance of prioritizing relationships, personal growth, and a positive work environment in achieving success.

  Have you ever wondered what it takes to become a professional soccer player? Or how one person’s passion for the sport can lead to making a positive impact on the lives of others? In a recent episode of the “Circuit of Success” podcast, host Brett Gilliland sat down with guest Michael Leon to explore his inspiring journey and commitment to giving back. Michael Leon was born and raised in Accra, Ghana, and graduated from the Right to Dream Academy. From ages 11-15, he participated in training attachments with FC Nordsjaelland and Manchester City.  He is an alumnus of the Hotchkiss School and is currently a member of the men’s soccer team at the University of Michigan.   The Michael Leon Project   “The Michael Leon Project” is a short documentary that follows University of Michigan soccer star, Michael Leon, as he returns to his hometown of Accra, Ghana to give 100 uniforms to the youth team that ignited his passion for soccer. Explore Michael’s Ghanaian roots, feel the unbreakable bonds of his community, and witness the transformative power of sports. This documentary serves as a tribute to the lasting impact of philanthropy and the profound results of following your dreams. Watch Here: The Michael Leon Project   Personal Growth and Aspirations Michael Leon believes that personal growth should be prioritized over comparison. He shared his aspirations of signing a professional contract and making a difference in the world. His dedication to the sport and desire to inspire dreams and change are remarkable. One of the ways Michael is making a positive impact is through his involvement in community projects. He has donated jerseys to underprivileged athletes in Ghana, providing them with the opportunity to pursue their passion for soccer. His commitment to creating opportunities for others is truly inspiring. Throughout the podcast episode, Michael expresses his gratitude for the support systems that have helped him along his journey. He acknowledges the importance of having a strong network of people who believe in you and push you to achieve your goals. Looking towards the future, Michael plans to continue his rigorous training routine and be a role model for aspiring soccer players.

  In this episode of the Circuit of Success podcast, host Brett Gilliland had the opportunity to interview Tom Nolan, the CEO of Kendra Scott, a renowned U.S. jewelry and accessories brand. Tom’s career trajectory is nothing short of extraordinary, transitioning from a college athlete to a leader in the fashion and lifestyle industry. Before becoming CEO, he served as Chief Marketing & Chief Revenue Officer, where he played a pivotal role in driving strategic revenue growth for the billion-dollar brand. Under Tom’s guidance, Kendra Scott is poised to have its most successful year to date, with plans to nearly double its number of stores in the next three years. During the interview, Tom shared valuable insights on the importance of setting clear goals, problem-solving, and leading by example. He emphasized the transformative power of empathy, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of meaningful impact. Tom’s leadership philosophy revolves around integrating the brand’s core pillars of fashion, family, and philanthropy into every consumer touchpoint within the business. His candidness about his fears, motivations, and struggles provided a glimpse into his mindset and approach to both personal and professional endeavors. Listen to be inspired by Tom’s authenticity, champion mindset, and commitment to lifelong learning. His advice on consistency, surrounding oneself with a supportive network, and embracing failure as a stepping stone to success resonates with aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals alike. The episode serves as a reminder of the transformative power of hard work, resilience, and dedication, leaving listeners motivated to pursue their own paths to success.

  Rick Torrison, the founder of Right Now Leadership LLC & Revival Rivers Non-Profit, is a highly respected Success Coach, international speaker, and certified John C Maxwell coach. With over 25 years of experience as a Growth Catalyst, working with Fortune 500 companies and solopreneurs, Rick is uniquely equipped to help individuals and organizations break through limiting beliefs and unleash their true identity. His upcoming book, “Born Limitless,” launching on May 7th, is already generating excitement as a potential bestseller. Pre-order the book Born Limitless and get over $400 dollars in bonuses. bornlimitlessbook.com IG @ricktorrison DM a limiting belief you have struggled with to receive a framework for crushing and replacing any limiting beliefs. In this episode of the “Circuit of Success,” Rick joins host Brett Gilliland to discuss the power of challenging limiting beliefs and taking action toward personal growth. Rick shares his journey of overcoming a challenging childhood and past abuse, highlighting the importance of resilience and continuous learning. They discuss the significance of aligning actions with beliefs, setting clear goals, and celebrating small victories along the way. Through visualization, self-reflection, and motivation, individuals can navigate obstacles and achieve their desired outcomes. Listeners are invited to follow Rick on Instagram at @ricktorrison, where they can send him a direct message sharing a limiting belief they have struggled with. In response, Rick will provide a framework for crushing and replacing those beliefs. This personalized approach showcases Rick’s dedication to helping individuals overcome their internal obstacles and achieve their full potential. Don’t miss this inspiring episode as Rick Torrison shares his wisdom and expertise, guiding listeners toward their greatest success and significance. Pre-order the book Born Limitless and get over $400 dollars in bonuses. bornlimitlessbook.com IG @ricktorrison DM a limiting belief you have struggled with to receive a framework for crushing and replacing any limiting beliefs.    

In the world of entrepreneurship, some success stories begin with a carefully crafted business plan, while others unfold unexpectedly. Matt Verlaque, a former firefighter, found himself on the latter path when he “accidentally” started his first SaaS company, UpLaunch, in 2016. What started as a serendipitous journey eventually led to a successful acquisition in 2020. Today, Matt serves as the COO of SaaS Academy, where he helps aspiring SaaS founders build their dream businesses. In this episode of the “Circuit of Success” podcast, hosted by Brett Gilliland, Matt shares his remarkable story and offers valuable insights into accidental entrepreneurship. Full Interview: Circuit of Success From Firefighter to Founder: After dedicating over a decade of his life to serving as a firefighter, Matt Verlaque never anticipated becoming an entrepreneur. However, fate had other plans for him. In 2016, Matt stumbled upon an opportunity that would change the course of his career. He founded UpLaunch, a SaaS company that quickly gained traction and eventually caught the attention of investors. Matt’s journey from firefighting to founding a successful business showcases the unpredictable nature of entrepreneurship and the potential for unexpected success. Lessons in Accidental Entrepreneurship: Matt Verlaque’s accidental entrepreneurship journey offers valuable lessons for aspiring business owners. One key takeaway is the importance of being open to unexpected opportunities. Matt’s willingness to embrace the unknown and take a leap of faith led him to discover his entrepreneurial potential. Additionally, his story highlights the significance of adaptability and a growth mindset. As an accidental entrepreneur, Matt had to quickly learn and adapt to the challenges of running a business, showcasing the resilience required to thrive in the ever-changing world of entrepreneurship. Leveraging Experience and Coaching: Today, Matt Verlaque serves as the COO of SaaS Academy, where he helps aspiring SaaS founders navigate the complexities of building a successful business. With his experience as a founder and his passion for coaching, Matt provides invaluable guidance to over 500 SaaS entrepreneurs. His journey from accidental entrepreneur to seasoned business leader showcases the power of leveraging personal experiences to help others achieve their entrepreneurial dreams. Matt Verlaque’s accidental entrepreneurship journey serves as a reminder that success can come from unexpected places. His story highlights the importance of seizing opportunities, embracing change, and cultivating a growth mindset. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting your journey, Matt’s insights offer valuable lessons that can inspire and guide you towards your own entrepreneurial success. So, take a leap of faith, be open to the unexpected, and let the journey of accidental entrepreneurship unfold.