
The Rooted Founder Show
The Rooted Founder Show with Staci Gray shares the inspiring stories behind the entrepreneurs who are shaping the business landscape. Experience the highs and lows of entrepreneurship as you dig into the roots of success and the challenges leaders are overcoming to get there.
Join host, Staci Gray, as she sits down with visionary founders for candid and unfiltered conversations about their journey, struggles, and triumphs.
Discover the human side of entrepreneurship as Staci and her guests share the raw and authentic realities of building a business — and the pivotal moments that defined their paths. From startup stumbles to major victories, the Rooted Founder Show is your backstage pass to the untold stories of visionary business leaders.
Latest episodes

Dec 9, 2024 • 51min
How to Trust Your Gut in a Male-Dominated Industry with Veena Jetti
On this episode of The Rooted Founder, Staci Gray sits down with Veena Jetti - entrepreneur, founder, storyteller, and community leader who brings her trademark humor and raw honesty to the conversation. Veena opens up about what it really takes to build something from scratch while staying true to your vision. From hilarious mishaps to hard-earned wisdom, this episode is perfect for anyone feeling stuck, seeking clarity, or just needing a good laugh along their entrepreneurial journey. CONNECT WITH VEENA: https://stacigray.com/listen/ Get the FREE GUIDE: 4 Essential Tips for Quickly Organizing Your Business to Scale: https://bit.ly/3qZJoyT Join my FREE Weekly Newsletter for Proven Strategies to propel you and your business forward: https://bit.ly/41IiaKY CHAPTERS: 00:00 Challenging Gender Norms in Parenting 02:59 Empowering Women in Real Estate 06:11 The Importance of Representation 09:00 Shifting Beliefs About Girls and STEM 11:50 Instilling Financial Literacy in Children 15:09 Embracing Failure as a Learning Tool 17:59 Overcoming Personal Ceilings 21:10 Defining Identity Beyond Achievements 25:50 The Evolution of Materialism and Identity 30:47 The Role of Intuition in Decision Making 35:38 Curiosity Over Stubbornness 40:37 Defining Success and Legacy 45:42 Integrating Ambition and Family Life

Nov 19, 2024 • 50min
Win Big in Real Estate Without Losing Your Soul with Whitney Elkins-Hutten
On this episode, Staci Gray interviews Whitney Elkins-Hutten about playing the game of business and real estate investing. Whitney shares her journey to building a vast portfolio and framework for achieving time, money, and location freedom while preserving joy and relationships. Prepare to be inspired by her personalized framework for generational wealth, unique perspectives on integrating business and life, and the transformative power of identity and boundaries. Don't miss this game-changing episode! CONNECT WITH WHITNEY: stacigray.com/listen Get the FREE GUIDE: 4 Essential Tips for Quickly Organizing Your Business to Scale: https://bit.ly/3qZJoyT Join my FREE Weekly Newsletter for Proven Strategies to propel you and your business forward: https://bit.ly/41IiaKY CHAPTERS 00:00 Unhooking Identity for Abundance 00:54 The Game of Business and Real Estate 01:50 Origin Story: Lessons from Early Investments 05:06 Developing a Winning Strategy 09:49 Defining Success and Enough 14:48 Integrating Business and Home Life 25:40 Unhooking Identity: The Key to Abundance Mindset 28:26 Creating Healthy Boundaries for Success 30:53 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Identity Shift 35:59 Strategies for Personal Wealth Creation 39:13 Teaching Financial Literacy to the Next Generation 43:42 Empowering Others to Create Their Desired Life 46:11 Celebrating Achievements and Embracing the Pause

Nov 12, 2024 • 56min
Is Your Success Destroying Your Family?! (And How to Fix It) with Tabatha Thorell
Join host Staci Gray as she interviews Tabatha Thorell, a real estate investor and mother of five who's built a seven-figure portfolio while challenging traditional views on wealth creation. Drawing from her experience as the founder of the Legacy Wealth Project, Tabatha reveals why knowledge and experience matter more than money itself. She explains that while money is essential like oxygen, understanding it as a tool rather than a ruler is key to financial success. Through practical insights on compound interest and asset building, Tabatha shows how anyone can transform their relationship with money and create lasting wealth. CONNECT WITH TABATHA: stacigray.com/listen Get the FREE GUIDE: 4 Essential Tips for Quickly Organizing Your Business to Scale: https://bit.ly/3qZJoyT Join my FREE Weekly Newsletter for Proven Strategies to propel you and your business forward: https://bit.ly/41IiaKY CHAPTERS 00:00 Becoming Your Best Self 01:52 The Importance of Knowledge Over Money 05:38 Principles of Wealth and Generational Legacy 11:07 Modeling Values for Future Generations 15:21 Navigating Work-Life Balance 21:01 Questioning the Status Quo 25:11 The Journey of Entrepreneurship and Learning 27:54 Healing Through Personal Struggles 39:13 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Character Building 51:12 Defining True Success

Nov 4, 2024 • 52min
How to Beat Entrepreneurial Burnout Before It Beats You with Anna Kelley
In this powerful episode, real-estate powerhouse Anna Kelley joins Staci Gray to unpack Rushing Woman Syndrome and share strategies for ambitious women to succeed without sacrificing their wellbeing. Anna, a Multifamily Syndicator and 4X #1 Best-Selling Author, reveals her journey from burnout to balanced success, offering practical tips for time management, stress reduction, and purposeful living. Perfect for driven women ready to rewrite their success story. CONNECT WITH ANNA: stacigray.com/listen Get the FREE GUIDE: 4 Essential Tips for Quickly Organizing Your Business to Scale: https://bit.ly/3qZJoyT Join my FREE Weekly Newsletter for Proven Strategies to propel you and your business forward: https://bit.ly/41IiaKY CHAPTERS 00:00 The Impact of Stress on Women Entrepreneurs 09:06 Rushing Woman Syndrome: A Deep Dive 17:50 Prioritizing Self-Care Over Business Growth 26:32 Understanding Cortisol and Stress Management 30:10 The Importance of Holistic Health 31:35 Creating Life by Design 36:39 Finding Space for Self-Care 41:27 Navigating Stress and Identity 46:09 Embracing Seasons of Life 49:19 Living with Purpose and Passion

Oct 28, 2024 • 1h 1min
How to Crush Limiting Beliefs That Are Killing Your Deals with Chris Schwagerl
Ever wonder why some real estate investors effortlessly scale while others stay stuck? On this Episode, performance psychologist Chris Schwagerl reveals the hidden force holding you back - and it's not what you think. With a breakthrough method that helps syndicators raise 86% more capital, Chris shares how your subconscious mind might be secretly sabotaging your goals. Join host Staci Gray for a conversation that will challenge everything you thought you knew about achieving breakthrough results. CONNECT WITH CHRIS: stacigray.com/listen Get the FREE GUIDE: 4 Essential Tips for Quickly Organizing Your Business to Scale: https://bit.ly/3qZJoyT Join my FREE Weekly Newsletter for Proven Strategies to propel you and your business forward: https://bit.ly/41IiaKY CHAPTERS 00:00 Facing Fears and Embracing Change 03:03 The Intersection of Psychology and Capital Raising 05:50 Understanding the Subconscious Mind 08:46 Identifying and Overcoming Limiting Beliefs 12:09 The STARS Method Explained 15:04 The Power of Identity and Legacy 17:52 Personal Journeys and Transformations 21:07 Integrating Life Experiences for Growth 30:22 Navigating Life's Crises and Growth Trajectories 32:43 The Role of Trauma in Entrepreneurship 35:31 Building Resilience Through Business Challenges 37:53 The Importance of Psychological Needs in Business 39:50 Separating Identity from Business Success 42:45 The Power of Vulnerability and Connection 45:34 Redefining Success Beyond Achievements 49:51 Creating Freedom Without Sacrificing Relationships 53:10 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Alignment 57:02 Exciting Future Projects and Community Building

Oct 21, 2024 • 55min
From Burnout to Breakthrough: The Truth About Scaling a 7-Figure Business with Kate Perkovic
Are you stuck in a business that leaves you drained, despite hitting big milestones? In this episode of The Rooted Founder, Staci Gray and seven-figure entrepreneur Kate Perkovic dive into the hidden costs of success—burnout, imbalance, and the pressure to follow the “blueprint.” They expose how ignoring the signs of exhaustion can leave you disconnected from your values and true potential. If you're tired of chasing success at the expense of your well-being, this episode will confront the reality and help you rethink your path. CONNECT WITH KATE: stacigray.com/listen Get the FREE GUIDE: 4 Essential Tips for Quickly Organizing Your Business to Scale: https://bit.ly/3qZJoyT Join my FREE Weekly Newsletter for Proven Strategies to propel you and your business forward: https://bit.ly/41IiaKY CHAPTERS 00:00 Flawed Foundations: The Journey to Seven Figures 06:53 The Shift from Six to Seven Figures: A New Perspective 13:50 Blending Masculine and Feminine Energies in Business 22:55 Defining Success Beyond Numbers: A Holistic Approach 27:35 Becoming the Business Owner You Want to Be 30:24 The Journey of Internal Hurdles 32:38 The Importance of Supportive Environments 35:57 Challenging Conversations and Tough Love 39:38 The Power of Choice for Women 42:53 Navigating the Masculine and Feminine Dynamics 46:09 Pioneering New Paths and Conversations 50:20 The Value of In-Person Connections

Oct 14, 2024 • 50min
How Your Belief Systems Can Sabotage or Scale Your Business with Mark Collins
In this episode of The Rooted Founder, Staci Gray sits down with Mark Collins—a business coach, pastor, and author—for a down-to-earth conversation about one of the biggest challenges entrepreneurs face: understanding who you really are and why it matters for your business. Mark shares how self-doubt and feeling pulled in too many directions can cloud your sense of identity, making it harder to make decisions that align with your values. They discuss why it's so important to get clear on who you are as a person, not just as a business leader, and how that clarity can help you grow both personally and professionally. If you’ve ever felt like you’re losing yourself in the grind of building a business or just want to find more purpose in your work and life, this episode is for you. It’s an honest talk about getting past what holds you back and finding a stronger, more intentional identity. CONNECT WITH MARK: stacigray.com/listen Get the FREE GUIDE: 4 Essential Tips for Quickly Organizing Your Business to Scale: https://bit.ly/3qZJoyT Join my FREE Weekly Newsletter for Proven Strategies to propel you and your business forward: https://bit.ly/41IiaKY CHAPTERS00:00 The Foundation of Identity 01:14 The Journey of Entrepreneurship 05:52 Overcoming Internal Hurdles 09:11 The Struggle with Imposter Syndrome 12:19 The Importance of Self-Recognition 17:07 Living Life by Design 20:50 Celebrating Accomplishments 23:15 Understanding Manhood and Identity 25:11 Journey to Self-Acceptance 27:00 The Lie of Not Being Enough 28:24 Identity and Life Mastery 30:16 Transforming Challenges into Opportunities 32:39 The Power of Clear Identity 34:31 Freedom and Authenticity 36:53 The Impact of Personal Growth on Relationships 39:50 Legacy and Life's Purpose 40:43 The Process of Writing and Sharing Wisdom

Oct 7, 2024 • 1h
How to Break Free from Borrowed Beliefs and Live Authentically with Amilynne Carroll
In this eye-opening episode of The Rooted Founder, Staci Gray interviews AmiLynne Carroll, aka Babs, a certified Holistic Practitioner, Life Coach, author, and Ted-X speaker. Discover Babs' transformative journey from chasing perfection to embracing authenticity. Learn how she overcame personal tragedies and found healing, offering powerful insights on letting go of borrowed beliefs and creating a culture of trust. Whether you're a leader or on a path of self-discovery, this inspiring conversation will challenge your perceptions and ignite your journey towards meaningful success. CONNECT WITH AMILYNNE: stacigray.com/listen Get the FREE GUIDE: 4 Essential Tips for Quickly Organizing Your Business to Scale: https://bit.ly/3qZJoyT Join my FREE Weekly Newsletter for Proven Strategies to propel you and your business forward: https://bit.ly/41IiaKY CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Background 10:07 Striving for Societal Norms and Achieving Success 18:40 Moving from Control to Command 25:22 Questioning Beliefs and Letting Go of Borrowed Beliefs 29:11T he Power of Experience and Collaboration 30:55 The Power of Collaboration and Support 35:39 Embracing Course Correction 37:21 Creating a Safe Space for Growth 41:34 Targets: A Flexible Approach to Success 45:48 The Importance of Culture and Authenticity 55:18 Defining Success as Inner Congruence

Sep 30, 2024 • 1h 4min
How to Achieve Success Without Sacrificing Your Soul: Sam Kabert's 6-Step Process
Join Staci Gray and guest Sam Kabert on this episode of The Rooted Founder as they explore business success and soul-life harmony. Discover how integrating work and life, practicing presence, and trusting universal guidance leads to true fulfillment. Sam shares innovative concepts like the six-step breath process and redefines success. Whether you're a new or seasoned entrepreneur, this episode will transform your approach to hustle, self-care, and spiritual growth in business. CONNECT WITH SAM: stacigray.com/listen Get the FREE GUIDE: 4 Essential Tips for Quickly Organizing Your Business to Scale: https://bit.ly/3qZJoyT Join my FREE Weekly Newsletter for Proven Strategies to propel you and your business forward: https://bit.ly/41IiaKY CHAPTERS 00:00 Awakening to True Fulfillment 09:52 The Journey of Entrepreneurship 19:48 Navigating Success and Happiness 29:56 The Balance of Spirituality and Business 40:09 Breathwork and Emotional Regulation 50:05 Integrating Masculine and Feminine Energies 59:46 Defining Success and Moving Forward

Sep 16, 2024 • 44min
How a 16-Year-Old's Nightmare Became a Shark Tank Dream with Shirah Benarde
Join Staci Gray as she interviews Shirah Benarde, the young founder of Nightcap! Discover how a dream led to a Shark Tank success, and learn about Shirah's mission to prevent drink spiking. This episode offers invaluable insights on entrepreneurship, overcoming challenges, and making a real-world impact. Get inspired to take action on your own business ideas and learn how to stay grounded while pursuing your dreams. CONNECT WITH SHIRAH: stacigray.com/listen Get the FREE GUIDE: 4 Essential Tips for Quickly Organizing Your Business to Scale: https://bit.ly/3qZJoyT Join my FREE Weekly Newsletter for Proven Strategies to propel you and your business forward: https://bit.ly/41IiaKY CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Background 04:00 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Building Self-Confidence as a Founder 07:58 Creating a Safe Space for Victims and Raising Awareness 13:32 Integrating Entrepreneurship and Mental Health 16:56 Embracing Change and Evolving as a Leader 24:52 The Power of Taking Action and Starting 28:51 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Embracing Opportunities 31:04 Defining Success: Freedom, Happiness, and Inner Peace 39:46 The Impact of Creativity and Self-Expression