

Beyond Fulfillment Podcast
Dave Gulas
The Beyond Fulfillment Podcast, with Dave Gulas of EZDC 3PL, is your weekly dose of real talk with the people actually building successful businesses. We bring you unfiltered conversations with the founders, the dreamers, and the doers who are truly making things happen. We're cutting through the noise to show you what it really takes for business growth.. Think of it as a backstage pass to the entrepreneurial journey —from overcoming tough challenges to celebrating big victories, and every important lesson along the way. Why listen? Because we're exploring various industries, pulling back the curtain on how entrepreneurs like David Meltzer, Brian Esposito, Susan Sly, Darren Jacklin, and Susan Bratton have powered through obstacles, grabbed opportunities, and truly scaled their visions. You'll hear authentic stories that resonate, gain practical advice you can put into action today, and find the motivation to fuel your own growth.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 15, 2025 • 22min
Gamifying Growth: Overcoming Fear Through Action with Jesse Kay
Welcome to the Beyond Fulfillment Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Jesse Kay, entrepreneur, podcast host, and founder of Vyber Media, to uncover top strategies for startup success, audience engagement, and building a thriving business from the ground up. Jesse shares how launching his podcast at 16 kickstarted his journey in performance marketing, his secrets to landing high-profile interviews (like Mark Cuban and Jack Dorsey), and how he bootstrapped his agency, Vyber Media, while balancing college at Cornell and a stint at Goldman Sachs. Discover proven methods for managing time, overcoming fear, gamifying your business growth, and leveraging mission-driven leadership, even in crisis, as Jesse did with the Make Lemonade Fund during COVID-19.Timestamps: 02:10 Taking action at 16 & overcoming fear03:29 Landing major guests04:52 Founding Vyber Media07:04 Balancing college, work, and entrepreneurship12:22 Differentiating strategies for clients14:26 Gamifying business growth16:44 Make Lemonade Fund & mission-driven impactConnect with Jesse on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-kay-03a05b135/Learn more about Vyber Media: https://www.vybermedia.com/Learn more about Traffic Ninjas: https://join.thetrafficninjas.com/vegas-retreat-bfcm?am_id=ezdc3plIf you found value, please LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more expert interviews and entrepreneurial advice!#Entrepreneurship #StartupSuccess #BusinessGrowth #PerformanceMarketing #JesseKay #ViberMedia #BeyondFulfillmentPodcast #Media #Podcasting #Marketing #onlinemarketing #markcuban

May 13, 2025 • 27min
Lard Works in Mysterious Ways: Charles Mayfield’s Unconventional Skincare Success Story
Welcome to the Beyond Fulfillment Podcast! In this episode, we dive deep with Charles Mayfield, entrepreneur, bestselling cookbook author, regenerative farmer, and founder of the innovative lard-based skincare brand, Farrow.Packed with key entrepreneurial lessons, Charles shares how his journey from co-authoring Paleo Comfort Foods cookbooks led him to pioneer a sustainable skincare line rooted in regenerative farming. Discover the unique path of launching a product in a "saturated" skincare market, facing challenges with consumer perception, and why transparent, ethical sourcing is a game-changer for modern brands.Timestamps:Charles’ leap from culinary to skincare entrepreneurship (00:00:12)Overcoming challenges of lard-based product marketing (00:02:56)Consumer education & building authentic brand trust (00:09:15)Entrepreneurial mindset shifts, scaling, and building a family business legacy (00:10:51, 00:13:45)Transparent, ethical sourcing & connecting with customers (00:15:34, 00:19:32)Business wisdom from farming and raising pigs (00:22:17)Don’t miss actionable takeaways on branding, scaling, leveraging customer stories, and staying true to your values. If you found value in this episode, make sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more interviews with successful entrepreneurs and insights for growing your business!Connect with Charles on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-mayfield-34a5972/Learn more about Farrow: https://farrow.shop/#Entrepreneurship #Skincare #RegenerativeAgriculture #Paleo #IndieBeauty #Transparency #SmallBusiness #BeyondFulfillment #RegenerativeBusiness #CleanBeauty #beautyindustry #skincareproducts

May 9, 2025 • 33min
Entrepreneurship on Your Own Terms: Building a Legacy in Logistics with Tristan Bordallo
Welcome to the Beyond Fulfillment Podcast! In this episode we sit down with Tristan Bordallo, a 21-year entrepreneur, asset-based trucking company founder, and former competitive cyclist. Tristan shares how his background in competitive cycling shaped his mental toughness and resilience in the world of business. He dives deep into the realities of building a business from scratch, including how he transitioned from agency owner to launching his own trucking and brokerage companies , the challenges and learning curve of scaling a business, and the decision-making behind owning assets versus brokering freight. Tristan also touches on building lasting relationships with clients, combating industry fraud, and fostering a culture of community and positivity through his “care for all” philosophy.Key topics: entrepreneurship strategy, mental toughness, freight brokerage, trucking company growth, asset-based business, small business challenges, building community, positive mindset for founders.Timestamps: 3:38 – Transitioning to business ownership5:59 – Owning assets vs. brokering freight11:53 – Learning curve & business challenges18:25 – Building community & caring for allIf you found this episode valuable, make sure to subscribe and join other entrepreneurs leveling up their game! Your support helps us bring more top business minds to the show. Connect with Tristan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tristan-bordallo-a57860162/#Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #Startup #BusinessGrowth #TruckingIndustry #FreightBrokerage #Mindset #BusinessPodcast

May 8, 2025 • 35min
The Truth Behind Tariffs: Myths, Realities, and Opportunities with Jim Tompkins
Welcome to the Beyond Fulfillment Podcast! In this episode, we have special guest Jim Tompkins cut through the noise to explore the impact of the trade war, Trump's presidency, and global supply chain disruptions, offering actionable advice for today’s business leaders.Learn how to leverage cost reduction, optionality, and supply chain resilience to future-proof your business. Jim Tompkins delivers powerful knowledge on tariffs, trade negotiations, and navigating unreliable data from international partners like China. Get the scoop on innovative approaches like nearshoring, reshoring, variable labor models, and optimizing logistics to maintain your competitive edge.Timestamps: 01:00 – Trump’s Trade Policy & Entrepreneur Mindset 09:00 – Debunking Myths: Tariffs, Experts, and Supply Chain 17:25 – Data Transparency Issues in China 22:52 – Managing Uncertainty as an Entrepreneur 29:35 – Actionable Strategies: Cost-Cutting & Optionality 32:44 – How Tompkins Ventures Can HelpIf you found value in this episode, don’t forget to subscribe for more entrepreneurship tips and real-world business strategy from industry leaders. #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #Startups #SupplyChain #BusinessStrategy #TradeWar #Leadership #Optionality #CostReduction #BeyondFulfillment

May 6, 2025 • 24min
The Power of Relationships: Talento’s Transition Story with Mia Mazal
Ready to transform your entrepreneurial journey? In this episode of the Beyond Fulfillment Podcast, we welcome back Mia Mazal, now co-founder of Talento, who shares powerful, real-world lessons for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and startup founders.Discover how Mia led the evolution from SWorks to Talento, integrating business intelligence and AI into logistics and supply chain solutions for rapid growth and operational excellence. Get tips on leveraging automation, scaling a company in today’s market, and building unmatched employee retention through “emotional salary.”Key topics for entrepreneurs and founders:• Company pivots & startup growth strategies• How AI & business intelligence revolutionize small business operations and logistics• Overcoming challenges in nearshoring and the evolving talent market• Building strong company culture and employee engagement• Real stories of resilience and leadership in business transformationTimestamps:02:39 - AI & BI in business solutions05:12 - Implementing AI in logistics08:54 - Overcoming obstacles in scaling10:34 - Redefining entrepreneurial success12:30 - Creating culture & emotional salary14:41 - Gardening, work-life balance, and founder wellbeing15:49 - Unexpected lessons of leadership17:48 - Managing time and avoiding founder burnout19:27 - Biggest wins in Mia’s new journeyIf you found value in these actionable entrepreneurial strategies and inspiring stories, don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share for more insider tips!Connect with Mia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/miamazal/Learn more about Talento: http://talento-io.com/Learn more about PipeDrive: https://aff.trypipedrive.com/7g6xah07kgpq#nearshoring #logistics #supplychain #supplychainmanagement #relationships #ai #workplaceculture #logisticsindustry #smallbusinessowner

May 1, 2025 • 21min
Rethinking Reviews: How Sircles Is Redefining Trust and Recommendations with John Worthington
Unlock the secrets of entrepreneurial success with this inspiring episode of the Beyond Fulfillment Podcast featuring John Worthington, founder of Tech2U and Sircles! If you’re an entrepreneur, small business owner, or startup founder searching for actionable strategies, innovative funding ideas, and real-world advice from thriving business leaders, this episode is packed with value.In this episode, you’ll discover:Why John left review platforms like Yelp behind to build a community-driven recommendation app (Sircles).The biggest risks and leaps of faith every founder faces—especially when raising capital.Proven crowdfunding strategies that helped John raise over $7 million on Kickstarter and WeFunder.How to harness community and influencer partnerships for explosive growth.The entrepreneurial mindset shift from chasing negative feedback to building a business on positivity and trusted networks.Advice for scaling your business at a sustainable pace, avoiding burnout, and building a loyal team.The importance of having a mission-driven “Why” for your startup.Tips on navigating reputational risk as your raise funds and lead your venture.Timestamps:00:33 Origin story of Sircles: solving problems with Yelp02:11 The leap toward a “friend-powered” model03:11 How & why they chose crowdfunding05:36 Crowdfunding tips & influencer partnerships06:56 Building a positive, recommendation-focused app10:07 Early community-building tactics11:23 Next milestones & scaling beyond your local market12:22 Fundraising advice for early-stage startups14:21 Navigating risk and reputation as a founder15:40 Lessons learned from Tech2U & scaling wisely16:55 The value of trusted partners in business18:05 Where to find and connect with SirclesIf you found value, hit Subscribe and tap the bell icon to never miss actionable interviews on entrepreneurship, startup growth, and funding strategies!Connect with John: Social: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sirclesWebsite: https://sircles.com/#Entrepreneurship #StartupAdvice #Crowdfunding #SmallBusiness #BusinessGrowth #FounderStories #BusinessPodcast #CirclesApp #BeyondFulfillmentPodcast

Apr 29, 2025 • 29min
From Goofball to Guru: Reinventing Life Insurance Leads with Todd Schuchart
Welcome to the Beyond Fulfillment Podcast, today we sit down with successful entrepreneur Todd Schuchart, founder of Razor Ridge Leads. He shares game-changing insights for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and startup founders. If you’re seeking actionable strategies for business growth, innovative sales tactics, and leveraging technology like AI in your business—this episode is packed with value!Timestamps:2:45 – Finding Innovation in Life Insurance Lead Generation5:22 – The Story Behind Razor Ridge Leads’ Brand & Philosophy6:08 – Agent-First Business Approach: Lessons from the C-Suite9:30 – Overcoming Industry Resistance to Conversational Sales & AI Driven CRM Tools13:02 – Simplifying the Sales Process (And Why That’s Hard!)15:28 – The Counterintuitive Secrets to Entrepreneurial Success16:59 – Biggest Misconceptions About Success in Business19:23 – How AI Is Changing Lead Generation & Nurturing21:07 – Balancing Technology with Human Connection in Sales22:38 – Real Success Story: Transforming Agents into Top Performers25:22 – How to Learn More & Connect with Razor Ridge LeadsIf you want to learn how top entrepreneurs approach innovation, develop effective sales systems, and use AI to scale their businesses, this is a must-watch for your entrepreneurial journey!Connect with Todd: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddcharles/Learn more about Razor Ridge Leads: http://razorridge.com/👉 Enjoyed the episode? Hit that SUBSCRIBE button for more interviews with industry leaders sharing proven business strategies.#Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #SalesTraining #LeadGeneration #AI #BusinessGrowth #StartupSuccess #BeyondFulfillment

Apr 24, 2025 • 23min
E-Commerce Shakeup: US China Tariffs, Fraud, and the Future of Online Retail
Looking for real-world strategies to protect your business during uncertain times? In this special edition episode of the Beyond Fulfillment Podcast, host Dave Gulas sits down with Aaron Rubin, founder and CEO of ShipHero, to discuss the current state of E-commerce and supply chain disruption caused by escalating US-China tariffs. This conversation is packed with knowledge to help you navigate trade challenges, inventory management, sourcing adjustments, and the legal risks of international shipping.Aaron shares firsthand experience as both a software provider and E-commerce owner about adapting to shifting Section 321 rules, soaring tariffs up to 145%, fraud risks, importer of record liability, and how to weather volatility in global supply chains. Discover tips on holding inventory, alternative sourcing in Vietnam/India, pricing, ad spend, and why patience pays off when policy shifts are on the horizon. Plus, learn why long-term enforcement could actually boost opportunities for American brands.Timestamps: 01:00 – The state of E-commerce: tariffs, Section 321 changes04:45 – Tariff fraud risks & importer of record liabilities10:22 – Surviving and pivoting supply chains17:06 – Long-term silver linings for US entrepreneursConnect with Aaron on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronandml/Visit his website: http://www.shiphero.com/If you found value, please SUBSCRIBE and join our entrepreneur community for more expert advice on building resilient, profitable businesses!#shipping #tariffs #ecommerce #onlineretail #imports #uschinatradewar #trade

Apr 23, 2025 • 34min
Negotiating the Future: US-China Tariff Standoff and Its Supply Chain Ripple Effects
Welcome to a special edition of the Beyond Fulfillment Podcast! In this episode, supply chain legend Jim Tompkins discusses in detail, Trump’s impact on the global supply chain with essential insights for entrepreneurs and small business owners navigating today’s rapidly evolving marketplace.Whether your business relies heavily on China, you’re seeking resilient supply chain strategies, or you want actionable tips on geographical diversification and nearshoring, this conversation is packed with entrepreneurial wisdom.Jim shares over 50 years of supply chain expertise, providing practical, real-world advice on adapting to trade wars, tariffs, shifting global markets, and negotiating trade deals that protect your business and help you thrive.🔗 Key topics & Timestamps:00:00 – Intro: Trump’s disruption of supply chains02:21 – Why tariffs & trade policy are a moving target05:59 – How to adapt your business strategy in real time08:24 – 5 scenarios in the US-China trade battle19:36 – Optionality: The #1 word for supply chain resilience24:20 – How international trade deals create new business opportunities28:30 – How US exports could surge in the future31:44 – Tools & next steps for resilient supply chainsRead the ReGlobalization white paper: https://app-na1.hubspotdocuments.com/...Xshoring- The Approach to Achieving ReGlobalization Paper: https://42241892.fs1.hubspotuserconte...Connect with Jim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimtompkins1/If you found value in these entrepreneurial insights and supply chain strategies, please subscribe, hit the bell icon, and let us know how you’re adapting your business in the comments below!#Entrepreneurship #SupplyChain #BusinessStrategy #TradeWar #SmallBusiness #Startup #Trump #USChinaTrade #BeyondFulfillment #JimTompkins

Apr 22, 2025 • 26min
Escaping Micromanagement: Real Leadership Lessons with Blaine Little
Ready to hear how real entrepreneurs build their dream businesses? You’ll love this episode of the Beyond Fulfillment Podcast, where we chat with Blaine Little, founder of Momentum Seminars. Blaine’s an expert in leadership, real-world training, and helping small business owners grow their teams and their profits, all from his own ups and downs in business.In this honest talk, Blaine shares how he went from serving in the Army, to selling insurance, to training realtors and finally running his own seminars for managers and business owners. He lays it all out: the rough starts, bad bosses, hard lessons, and what finally worked. If you want advice you can actually use, stories you’ll relate to, and some good laughs about those early business mistakes, you’re in the right place.Timestamps: 03:34 – How he found his groove as a trainer07:47 – Tough parts of launching a business13:37 – Biggest mistakes new managers make16:17 – The truth about “fairness” at work18:34 – Pivoting during the pandemic21:02 – What’s coming up next for Blaine22:55 – Where to reach BlaineIf you got something helpful out of this one, hit subscribe to catch more real stories from folks who’ve made it work!Connect with Blaine on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blainelittle/#EntrepreneurStory #SmallBusinessAdvice #StartupRealTalk #BeyondFulfillmentPodcast #micromanaging #entrepreneur #leadership