
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

Sep 9, 2024 • 43min
Why Your Friends and Family Give the Worst Advice (And What to Do Instead) with Rodric Lenhart
Join Staci Gray on this episode of The Rooted Founder with guest Rodric Lenhart, author of 'Million Dollar Flip Flops'. Rodric shares insights on entrepreneurial success through internal change and adaptability. Discover the Waves Method for uncovering your authentic purpose, learn to balance intuition with logic, and explore strategies for meaningful business growth. Rodric discusses overcoming external validation, the impact of world travel, and his mission to send a million kids on life-changing trips. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this episode offers valuable perspectives on creating a fulfilling business and life. CONNECT WITH RODRIC: 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: Staci Gray's Journey to Success 02:47 Finding Success and Fulfillment through Values and Purpose 09:09 The Power of Internal Change 13:00 Trusting Intuition and Embracing Spirituality 16:50 Defining Success on Your Own Terms 22:53 The Importance of Service and Giving Back

Aug 12, 2024 • 29min
7 Powerful Tactics for Stressed-Out Business Owners with Staci Gray
In this impromptu solo episode, Staci Gray reflects on global challenges affecting entrepreneurs' lives and businesses. She shares 7 powerful strategies to help trapped or overwhelmed business owners regain control and find fulfillment. From integrating mind and body to leveraging community support, Staci offers actionable advice for turning crisis into opportunity. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, learn how to align your passion with your purpose and achieve lasting transformation. Ready to revolutionize your approach to life and business? Tune in as Staci reveals the keys to unlocking your true potential! CONNECT WITH STACI: 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 Navigating Storms: Deconstructing and Reconstructing 03:51 From Financial Success to Soul-Level Impact 08:35 Challenges in Relationships, Finances, and Business 12:17 Listening to Your Body and Intuition 17:39 Seven Actionable Steps for Trapped Entrepreneurs 28:10 Finding Joy and Beauty in the Journey 29:05 Creating an Aligned Life and Business

Aug 5, 2024 • 48min
How Top CEOs Rewire Their Brains for Success with Kiley Peters
On this episode, join Staci Gray and guest Kiley Peters, CEO and executive coach, as they dive into the world of resilient entrepreneurship. Kiley shares her journey from agency owner to founder of RAYNE IX, offering invaluable insights on sustainable business growth, mental well-being, and redefining success. Learn strategies for managing the psychological challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of self-honesty, and how to play the long game. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting out, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiring wisdom to help you build the entrepreneurial life that’s destined for you! CONNECT WITH KILEY: 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 03:04 Resilience and Adaptability in Entrepreneurship 11:43 Transitioning from Agency to New Venture 15:05 Navigating Personal and Leadership Challenges 19:16 Being Honest with Yourself and Setting Realistic Expectations 23:01 Understanding the Numbers and Running the Business 23:59 Helping Others on Their Entrepreneurial Journeys 24:27 Resilience, Understanding Numbers, and Playing the Long Game 25:26 The Psychological Burden and Effective Leadership 26:22 Nervous System Resilience and Developing a Playbook 27:30 Creating Productive Structures and Hedging Against Burnout 32:42 Accountability and Support for Personal and Professional Growth 33:12 Integrating the Dreamer and Doer for Goal Execution 34:00 Defining Success: Work, Relationships, and Financial Freedom 45:13 Exciting Projects: Accelerator Program, CEO Hotline, and Book 47:05 The Power of a Supportive Community in Entrepreneurship

Jul 29, 2024 • 54min
Why Working 40 Hours a Week is Killing Your Success (And Your Soul) with Chris Miles
On this Episode, Join Staci Gray and Cash Flow Expert and Anti-Financial Advisor, Chris Miles, for a no-holds-barred conversation on The Rooted Founder show. Chris shares his journey from financial struggles to freedom, revealing the raw truths about success in business and life. Discover how childhood experiences shape your entrepreneurial path, and learn to align your work with your true self. This episode cuts through the usual business fluff, offering fresh, authentic insights on partnerships, personal growth, and redefining success. Whether you're a startup rookie or a seasoned pro, tune in for a perspective-shifting discussion that could revolutionize your approach to entrepreneurship and life! 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 Introduction and Setting the Stage 02:58 Aligning Personal and Business Goals 07:44 Overcoming Childhood Traumas 14:54 Creating Value and Serving Others 16:51 Authenticity and Self-Reflection 20:31 Seeking Outside Perspectives 23:26 Addressing the Challenges of People-Pleasing 26:17 The Importance of Self-Reflection and Thinking 27:17 Finding Harmony and Focusing on Core Strengths 27:48 Healing Childhood Wounds and Building Trust 31:02 Finding Success Through Serving Others 36:47 Overcoming Financial Struggles and Creating Value 49:21 Success as Making a Positive Impact 53:04 The Power of Deep Conversations and Self-Reflection

Jul 22, 2024 • 52min
How to Handle Stress and Pressure as a Marketing CEO and Parent with Kerry Guard
On this episode, Kerry Guard, CEO of MKG Marketing, joins Staci Gray to discuss managing motherhood and entrepreneurship. Discover strategies for work-life harmony, creating a people-first culture, and fostering psychological safety in remote teams. Kerry shares insights on leadership, open communication, and exciting new initiatives at her company. CONNECT WITH KERRY: 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 02:10 Creating Boundaries and Prioritizing 09:26 Setting Clear Hours and Being Present 15:58 Building a Culture of Feedback and Accountability 25:24 Building Psychological Safety and a Positive Work Culture 31:29 Leading a Remote Team During Challenging Times 34:11 Personal Growth and the Importance of Seeking Help 39:25 The Power of a Support Network and Trusted Advisors 46:26 Exciting Projects: Agency Leadership Committee and Coordinator Program

Jul 8, 2024 • 50min
Urgent Steps to Pivot Your Business in the Face of Economic Uncertainty with Rebecca Rosselli
On this episode of The Rooted Founder, Staci Gray speaks with Rebecca Rosselli, CEO of branding agency Pivot and Pilot, podcaster, and comedian. Rebecca shares her entrepreneurial journey, discussing challenges in sales, rejection, and business transitions. Learn about self-awareness, leadership, and redefining success through marketing, branding, and personal growth insights. Packed with actionable tips for entrepreneurs and anyone seeking personal development. CONNECT WITH REBECCA: 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 Early Entrepreneurial Spirit 03:09 Transitioning from Creative Pursuits to Entrepreneurship 08:23 Influences from Entrepreneurial Family 10:39 Starting Pivot and Pilot and the Shift to Sales 14:22 Lessons Learned from Father's Entrepreneurial Journey 20:19 Becoming a Solopreneur and Listening to Oneself 22:47 Finding Stillness through Meditation and Humor 24:48 Navigating Challenges and Building Resilience 26:50 The Importance of Calming Down Before Making Decisions 36:23 Building a Business: Facing Fears and Demons 46:57 Redefining Success and Finding Fulfillment 47:10 Exciting Projects: Podcasting, Consulting, and Comedy

Jun 24, 2024 • 45min
How to Rebuild A Powerful Identity After a Devastating Business Failure With Bethany LaFlam
In this episode of The Rooted Founder, Staci Gray chats with Bethany LaFlam - entrepreneur, seasoned lawyer, mother, and visionary with over 20 years of legal expertise. Bethany shares her journey from the male-dominated legal field to entrepreneurship, emphasizing self-care, setting boundaries, and rebuilding identity. They redefine success as staying true to your passion and discuss Bethany's role in helping syndicators build real estate empires. Tune in for an inspiring talk on entrepreneurship, personal growth, and prioritizing wellbeing. CONNECT WITH BETHANY: 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 Finding Your Passion and Doing What Lights You Up 13:35 Challenges of Being a Woman in a Male-Dominated Industry 22:50 Setting Boundaries and Prioritizing Personal Peace 25:40 Transitioning Out of Toxic Relationships 29:53 Rebuilding Identity Through Partnership 35:26 Defining Success and Choosing Your Path 39:41 Staying in Your Lane and Doing What You Love

Jun 17, 2024 • 55min
How to Overcome Trauma and Adversity to Build a Thriving Business With Courtney Gill
From Health crisis to thriving CEO: Courtney Gill's journey of self-belief, creativity & prioritizing what matters. Discover how she navigated challenges, integrated roles & built an empowered team. Get her insights on boundaries, defining success & celebrating wins - all while embracing the chaos of entrepreneurship. CONNECT WITH COURTNEY: 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 Journey of an Entrepreneur 09:35 Navigating Mental Health Challenges 11:59 Organizing and Scaling Yourself 22:29 Integrating being a Wife, Mother, and Business Owner 27:11 The Power of People and Creativity 28:06 The Power of Connection and Relationships 30:54 How to Navigate People Pleasing and Prioritizing Well-being 32:22 Leadership: Prioritizing People and Accountability 34:45 Building a Strong Team for Scalability 36:38 Defining Success: Setting Personal Goals 40:02 Current Projects: Marketing and Finding a New Social Media Manager 48:14 Enjoying Family Time and Vacations 49:42 The Journey of Building a Business: Hard Work and Freedom

Jun 10, 2024 • 45min
How to Navigate Major Life Transitions Without Losing Your Identity with Kara Ayala
Entrepreneur Kara Ayala joins Staci on this episode for an insightful discussion on personal growth, integrating family/business, empowering women, and integrating your passion with practical action. Kara shares wisdom on continuous learning, teaching kids financial literacy, navigating life's seasons, open communication in relationships, overcoming fear, aligning vision, and pursuing impact. Discover how to build a thriving business and fulfilling life by embracing the dreamer and doer mindsets. CONNECT WITH KARA: 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 Continuous Learning and Personal Growth 06:13 Navigating Different Seasons of Life and Identity 36:29 Integrating the Dreamer and the Doer

Jun 3, 2024 • 42min
How a Near-Fatal Health Scare Transformed This Lawyer's Business and Family Life With Mauricio Rauld
On this insightful episode of The Rooted Founder, Staci Gray speaks with long-time friend, lawyer-turned-entrepreneur, Mauricio Rauld who shares his transformative journey from being a doer to his evolution on becoming a leader. Mauricio candidly discusses how a health scare forced him to reevaluate his solopreneur law firm, build a team, and master delegation by empowering hires to solve problems independently. He underscores mindset, personal development, and robust processes as pivotal to scaling a business successfully while redefining success as the continual unfolding of one's life design, integrating entrepreneurship with family. This episode is not to be missed! CONNECT WITH MAURICIO: 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 Journey of Building a Successful Law Firm 06:23 Transforming Mindset: Facing a Health Scare 12:49 Building a Real Business: Systems and Processes 26:33 Prioritizing Family: The Top 1% Husband and Father 34:56 Defining Success: Designing and Achieving Your Life