Founders' Forum

Ever wondered where untapped potential lies? Marc Bernstein kicks things off with a touching story about his son’s act of compassion in the junk business, leading to a reflection on Russell Conwell's timeless message of finding "Acres of Diamonds" in our own backyards. Our guest, Jake Still, teases us with his own fascinating discoveries during junk cleanouts, promising more enthralling stories ahead.Ready to maximize your marketing efforts for growth? Listen to Jake Still, founder and CEO of Junk Rescue, as he shares his rapid expansion journey and the challenges he faced along the way. With a background in medical device sales, Jake reveals how he leveraged his skills to grow a successful junk removal business, emphasizing the importance of optimizing existing resources, building brand loyalty, and re-engaging clients. His personal anecdotes about transitioning careers and the pivotal role of his educational background provide valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs.The episode wraps up with an in-depth discussion on building a visionary business. From rebranding efforts to the significance of systems and delegation, Jake shares the valuable insights he gained from books like "The E-Myth" and "Buy Back Your Time." We delve into his ambitious growth strategy, highlighting the importance of a clear vision, employee development, and a strong company culture in achieving sustainable success. Jake’s commitment to mentorship and empowering young employees, especially those from challenging backgrounds, underscores the profound impact of simplicity and self-investment.About Jake Still:Jake Still is the Founder & CEO of Junk Rescue. He is a Jersey Native and graduate from West Chester University. He sold medical devices out of colleges to plastic surgeons and ditched that job to become a trash man. “Best decision I ever made.”Connect with Jake:Website junk-rescue.com LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/jakestill Instagram instagram.com/junk.rescue Facebook facebook.com/junk.rescueNJ This episode is brought to you by Junk Rescue; Making Junk Free - Stress Free. Go to junk-rescue.com to learn more.📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.

What if your voting decisions were influenced as much by a candidate's team as by the candidate themselves? This episode explores the often-overlooked importance of evaluating a political candidate's team, drawing insightful parallels to the corporate world where effective leadership and high-performing teams are essential for success. Our special guest, Howard Guttman, a distinguished business consultant, shares profound insights on how the composition and function of high-performing teams differ significantly between business and politics. We unravel why the strength and capability of a leader's team, whether in corporate settings or government, are key indicators of their overall effectiveness.Journey with us as Howard recounts his transition from a thriving corporate career to establishing his consultancy, Guttman Development Strategies (GDS). He opens up about the decade-long preparation period, the psychological hurdles of shedding a corporate identity, and the invaluable support from his wife, who now helms GDS as CEO. He delves into his unique business model and shares a trove of wisdom on building and scaling a sustainable business through a supportive internal team and strategic organizational structures.Finally, we explore the profound legacy consulting companies can leave on corporate cultures and individuals' lives. Howard sheds light on the strategies that allow a business to flourish without the founder's constant involvement, including a consultative decision-making process, regular team gatherings, and a compensation model that encourages collaboration. We also discuss the importance of leadership in retaining long-term contractors and cultivating a culture of accountability and support. Our conversation with Howard is filled with authentic insights and practical advice, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in leadership, team dynamics, and building a lasting organizational impact.About Howard M. GuttmanHoward M. Guttman is Principal of Guttman Development Strategies an organization development firm that has been in existence for 35 years serving clients around the world. Their focus is on developing high-performance teams, executive coaching, and leadership development.guttmandev.com linkedin.com/in/howard-m-guttman-38a81841 youtube.com/@HowardMGuttman This episode is brought to you by MultiFunding Business Loan Advisors, Fund Your Vision, Fuel Growth. Go to MultiFunding.com to learn more.📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.

What drives an entrepreneur to leave the comfort of a steady job and venture into uncharted territories? We're exploring the transformative power of entrepreneurship on individuals and communities with our special guest Jack Korbutov PharmD, RPh, FACA, FACVP, and we'll uncover the essence of impactful entrepreneurship and how understanding one's mission can lead to remarkable success. Hear from Marc Bernstein and Ang Onorato as they share their insights on tying purpose to business impact, and how a clear vision can lead to both personal and financial freedom.From the wrestling mat to the compounding pharmacy, Jack Korbutov's journey is nothing short of inspiring. As a first-generation American motivated by his father's entrepreneurial spirit, Jack's story is a testament to resilience and discipline. Facing the behemoth of large retail pharmacies, he pivoted to create Philadelphia's first modern compounding pharmacy, a move that proved critical to his success. Listen as Jack recounts the personal and professional challenges he faced, the lessons learned from his wrestling background, and the indomitable drive that spurred him on.We also delve into the strategic and practical aspects of running a successful business. Jack reveals how overcoming regulatory obstacles, delegating tasks, and fostering a strong workplace culture were pivotal in his pharmacy's growth. We discuss his future aspirations, the importance of hiring for cultural fit, and the invaluable wisdom found in classic self-improvement books like "Think and Grow Rich." Concluding with a shared love for EDM, this episode offers a wealth of insights and inspiration for budding and established entrepreneurs alike. Tune in and discover what it takes to make a lasting impact in your field.About Jack Korbutov PharmD, RPh, FACA, FACVP:Jack is a Philadelphia native who graduated from the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy in 2011. Just one year later in 2012 he opened Philadelphia's first modern compounding pharmacy. Since then he's expanded into a larger location that is the only PCAB Accredited and USP 800 certified pharmacy in the city, while gaining licensure in 18 states.Connect with Jack:Website theartofmed.com LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/jack-korbutov-43813320 Instagram instagram.com/theartofmed This episode is brought to you by The Art of Medicine; tailoring medication to make you the best version of yourself. Go to theartofmed.com to learn more.📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.

Free enterprise and fundamental freedoms take center stage as Marc Bernstein kicks off the episode by sharing his recent induction into the Union League of Philadelphia. Ang Onorato joins in to stress the importance of returning to core national principles and engaging with organizations that uphold these values. We are thrilled to have Dr. Stephen Hess, a distinguished dermatologist from Philadelphia, as our special guest. Dr. Hess highlights his admiration for the Union League’s historical significance and its support for business leaders in the city. Together, they offer a powerful discussion on the intersection of entrepreneurship and American democracy.Next, we dive into Dr. Hess's entrepreneurial journey with Center City Dermatology. From his roots at Wake Forest University and the University of Pennsylvania to the hurdles of running his practice, Dr. Hess shares how he expanded his team and navigated the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. He offers invaluable advice on finding and retaining the right staff, drawing inspiration from "The 32 Principles" by Henner Gracie and Dan Sullivan's "Who Not How." We also delve into Dr. Hess's three-year vision, his personal goals, and his fascination with Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Tune in to learn how blending personal stories with business strategies can lead to remarkable growth and fulfillment.About Stephen D. Hess, M.D., Ph.D., F.A.A.D:Stephen Hess was born and raised in Buffalo NY (and he is still a long-suffering Buffalo Bills fan!). He spent 4 years in North Carolina, and graduated from Wake Forest University before returning to Buffalo for medical school. Dr. Hess then moved to Philadelphia in 2004 and completed his Dermatology residency at the University of Pennsylvania. He (re-) founded Center City Dermatology in 2012.Connect with Dr. Hess:Website centercitydermatology.com LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/stephen-hess-m-d-ph-d-2448781b Instagram instagram.com/centercityderm Facebook facebook.com/centercitydermatology This episode is brought to you by Center City Dermatology; Comprehensive, Contemporary & Customized Skin Care. Go to centercitydermatology.com to learn more.📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.

Ever wondered how AI is reshaping the business landscape? Get ready to uncover the secrets of AI's transformative power with our special guest, Det Ansinn, founder and president of BrickSimple LLC. From his beginnings in the Midwest to the bustling tech scene of Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Det shares his incredible journey, offering a unique perspective on the resilience and adaptability needed in entrepreneurship. His firsthand experiences provide a rich, illuminating discussion on the significant changes AI is bringing to job dynamics and company roles.As we navigate through Det's personal milestones and career challenges, we also delve into BrickSimple's innovative approach to technology solutions. Learn about the serendipitous encounter at Doylestown Airport that reignited Det's passion for tech and led to the founding of his software development studio. BrickSimple’s ethos is built around radical innovation, especially in the realm of AI, and Det's insights on the importance of an external perspective in fostering innovation are invaluable. We also reflect on the company's unique strategy of relying on earned media and referrals, underscoring the authenticity of their approach.In our final segment, we explore the future of business through the lens of AI’s impact across various industries. Det draws parallels to the transformative introduction of the Netscape Navigator, suggesting that AI could not only enhance but also replace many current roles, particularly in fields like DevOps. We wrap up with a heartfelt discussion on the legacy of leadership and mentorship, emphasizing the lasting positive impacts on employees and the broader community. Don't miss this episode packed with valuable lessons and inspiration for anyone looking to navigate the future of business.About Det Ansinn:Det Ansinn is a serial entrepreneur and owner of BrickSimple LLC, a software development studio. Det has provided technology business analysis and commentary for Bloomberg Television, BusinessWeek, MIT Technology Review, Talking Points Memo, and MTV. His company’s work has also been featured on Engadget, Joystiq, TechCrunch, VentureBeat, ArsTechnica, Geek.com, GigaOM, MTV, NBC news, Reuters, Rolling Stone, and the BBC.Connect with Det:Website bricksimple.com This episode is brought to you by Verify Protect, Fast, Accurate, and Secure Background Checks. Go to VerifyProtect.com to learn more.📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.

Prepare to unlock the secrets of successfully adapting to rapid changes in our personal and professional lives. Inspired by the unforgettable "pivot" scene from Friends and the recent passing of Matthew Perry, we explore the art of pivoting. We reflect on the necessity of staying flexible amidst global shifts and the relentless pace of advancements in AI, setting the stage for a deeper discussion on how to navigate these constant changes.Vikram Ashok, the founder of Graphite, shares his incredible journey from a childhood fascination with marketplaces to creating a groundbreaking on-demand talent platform. Learn about the highs and lows of his entrepreneurial path, the valuable lessons he gleaned from launching and scaling Graphite, and the critical role of adaptability in achieving business success. Vik’s insights on pivoting and embracing change offer a compelling look into the future of work.We then dive into the evolving landscape of the workforce, spotlighting the rise of the gig economy and freelance work. By 2027, more than half of the workforce is expected to freelance, reshaping how companies engage with talent. We discuss why freelancers should be seen as experts and how the pandemic has accelerated the acceptance of remote work.About Vikram Ashok:Vik is the Founder and CEO of Graphite, a technology platform enabling seamless access to the world's best independent talent. Graphite connects Fortune 1000 companies, professional services firms and investment firms with a pool of ~9,000+ independent consultants for on-demand work. Forward-thinking organizations partner with Graphite to operate with more agility by accessing critical skills and expertise in real-time, alleviating bandwidth constraints on their teams and innovating faster. Independent consultants turn to Graphite to access challenging and rewarding work and accelerate the growth of their businesses.Prior to founding Graphite, Vik was a private equity investor at Quilvest Capital Partners, a multi-family office with $36B under management. Vik holds a B.S. in Applied Mathematics from Columbia University.Vik resides in Oakland CA with his wife. Outside of work, Vik enjoys spending time with family and friends, playing guitar, traveling to national parks and exploring the natural beauty of the Bay Area.graphite.com linkedin.com/company/graphitesolutionsThis episode is brought to you by Graphite; the most flexible, right-sized approach to getting work done. Go to graphite.com to learn more.📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.

Navigating the perils of complacency, we confront the silent threats that lurk in the shadows of success both on a personal and professional level. Our conversation takes a personal turn as Marc recounts a health scare, which serves as a cautionary tale reminding us all to never take our well-being for granted. Together with insights from our insightful guest Rado Kotorov, and a special appearance by Dr. Stephen Hess, we illustrate the importance of recognizing the winds of change before they become storms, emphasizing the need for swift action and the dangers of passivity.The odyssey through the landscape of data technologies is as riveting as it is enlightening, tracing my own unexpected journey from philosophy student to tech innovator. We unravel the threads of serendipity that led Rado to programming, and the profound impact of mentorship and ethical leadership during his time at Information Builders. As he recounts the birth of Trendalyze and later, StoryData, we peel back the layers of complexity in understanding and communicating with the digital world, underscoring their vision to tame the information overload that defines today's business environment.As we venture into the realm of data presentation, we explore the seismic shifts from paper to pixels, charting how generational preferences are molding the future of information consumption. We reflect on how businesses, big and small, are grappling with this transformation, noting the agility of startups in contrast to the cautious recalibration of established corporations. Rado highlights the empowerment that comes from accessible data, sparking innovation across journalism, government, and free enterprise.About Rado:Rado Kotorov is the Co-Founder and CEO of Storied Data Inc. and author of the book "Organizational Intelligence: How Smart Companies Use Information to Become More Competitive and Profitable."  He is an inventor, entrepreneur, and philosopher. Studied everything -- law, economics, design, tailoring, game theory. He has worked in start ups and big international companies. He was never hired for a particular job, but to create something new. He has written two books, many peer-reviewed articles, loves photography and cycling, and is a true road-warrior - travels 150 miles per year.Website storieddata.com LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/radokotorov This episode is brought to you by Center City Dermatology; Comprehensive, Contemporary & Customized Skin Care. Go to centercitydermatology.com to learn more.📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.

Embark on an insightful expedition into the world of virtual work with us, as we debate the resurgence of traditional office environments against the backdrop of our post-pandemic reality. Crowded parking lots and lively city centers are painting a familiar picture, but is the in-person collaboration worth sacrificing the flexibility so many have grown accustomed to? We wrestle with this question, bringing personal tales to the forefront, including a family member's leap to a virtual law firm, and examine the impact of remote work across various industries, particularly in real estate.Pam Butera joins the conversation to share her transformative journey with virtual assistants, and how this strategic shift has revolutionized the real estate sector. From her initial doubts to the establishment of a seamless virtual workforce, we uncover the role of technology and specialized assessments in perfecting the VA-client dynamic. The episode peels back the layers on the recruitment process and the undeniable benefits of cross-continental collaboration, providing listeners with a blueprint for integrating virtual assistance into their own business models.We then step into the control room of a successful VA team, revealing what makes the engine hum. Pam's vision for her company, Cyberbacker, and the real estate industry takes center stage as she outlines her blueprint for expansion and the hurdles of solo entrepreneurship. From the pages of her current read to the cherished wisdom of past favorites, Pam imparts a gem of guidance for the eager minds shaping the future of business.About Pam Butera:Pam Butera bought the Greater Philly Cyberbacker Franchise, a Virtual Admin Company, in 2021. When the opportunity was presented, Pam jumped on it. Pam has been running her own Residential Real Estate team completely virtual and has had a fantastic experience working with VA's. Now, they have 125 clients in the Greater Philly Area and are growing every day!Connect with Pam:Website virtualleveragesolutions.com LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/pamela-butera-ba468a5 Instagram instagram.com/greaterphillycyberbacker Facebook facebook.com/greaterphillycyberbacker This episode is brought to you by Cyberbacker, your own personal assistant for a fraction of the cost!  Go to VirtualLeverageSolutions.com to learn more.📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.

Discover the transformative power of food on health and happiness as we sit down with David Kirschner, the culinary mind behind DK Private Dining. A recent juice fast epiphany sets the table for a mouthwatering conversation about mindful eating. We feast on the stark differences between our own oftentimes mindless munching and the deliberate dining of our European neighbors. David stirs in his seasoned insights on how food serves as the foundation of personal health, caring for others, and sustaining our planet. His passion for crafting bespoke dining experiences is just the appetizer in this rich discussion on the intersection of nutrition and well-being.Ever wonder how an athlete flips the script to become a Michelin-star chef? We track the remarkable journey of a former sportsman whose discipline in the field translates to artistry in the kitchen. From cramming for college exams to commanding the heat of Per Se's culinary battleground, we uncover the challenges and victories of starting DineDK from scratch. With no formal training but a playbook of strategies, David recounts networking with the "gatekeepers" of the culinary world and creating opportunities for fellow chefs within the gig economy. His playbook is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit in the high-stakes world of gastronomy.The episode culminates with a masterclass in curating a roster of exceptional chefs for unforgettable private events. David shares his recipe for success: a blend of Michelin-star expertise with a dash of charisma, all garnished with top-notch communication skills. We go behind the scenes to learn how Dine DK Private Dining whisks together a community for chefs eager to trade the traditional kitchen line for the spotlight of personal chefdom. By implementing effective systems and fostering a dynamic team, David showcases how to juggle a high turnover of events with finesse and fire.About David:David Kirschner's culinary journey spans over two decades, marked by prestigious roles in renowned kitchens. From the esteemed 3 Michelin-starred Per Se to the kitchens of Michael Mina and Daniel Boulud, he has built a wealth of experience under our country's best chefs. In 2015, David founded dineDK Private Dining, a boutique private dining company known for its custom culinary experiences and private chef placement services.dinedk.cominstagram.com/dinedk This episode is brought to you by CamaPlan, A Different Way to Invest. Go to camaplan.com/foundersforum to learn more.📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.

Winter's chill invites a season of reflection and rejuvenation. Bruer Kershner unpacks the 'winter pause,' a time where personal and professional growth take center stage, allowing us to realign our life's compass. Bruer's expertise in the office furniture industry underpins a conversation about the strength found in relationships and the importance of a socially responsible business ethos. Adaptability is a cornerstone of success, we open up about the financial tightropes walked over 22 years of entrepreneurship. We explore the evolution of office spaces and the heart of being client-focused, even amidst economic uncertainties. The sharing of strategies and support systems, are underscored as essential for weathering market changes and fueling growth.We conclude by diving into the power of education, both formal and through the 'school of life.' Bruer's journey exemplifies that success is not a one-size-fits-all formula, and community service can be as enriching as traditional academic pursuits.About Bruer:The Kershner name has been a brand name in the office furniture business for more than 60 years, and it came as no surprise in 2002, when Bruer Kershner embarked on an entrepreneurial journey with a vision to take office furniture and workplace design into the future. It’s in his bloodline. As Founder and CEO of Kershner Office Furniture, and a firm believer in the power of relationships, Bruer has fostered a customer-focused philosophy by understanding the unique needs of clients and delivering personalized workplace solutions. Whether navigating market fluctuations, or cultivating a resilient company culture, he and his leadership team has been the driving force behind Kershner’s ability to not just survive but thrive. But Bruer is more than a businessman, he has an authentic commitment to social responsibility and continues to be actively engaged in the community, supporting local and international initiatives, and participating in charitable ventures that support organizations in the Philly area. kershneroffice.com linkedin.com/in/bruerkershner linkedin.com/company/kershner-office-furniture-inc- instagram.com/kershnerofficefurniture facebook.com/kershneroffice This episode is brought to you by Kershner Office Furniture, Workplace Furniture Solutions.  Go to kershneroffice.com to learn more.📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.