Founders' Forum

A talented New Zealand TV producer’s move across the ocean sparked an inspiring entrepreneurial journey. David Calderwood, Founder of Euro-Pacific Digital Media, shares how authentic relationships and a rich family legacy fueled his business success.David’s entrepreneurial roots run deep—from his great-grandfather’s 1850s photography studio to his parents’ hat-making business. Starting in New Zealand’s TV industry, his marketing degree and production skills paved the way for greater achievements.Meeting American producer Lisa was a turning point. After relocating to the U.S., David’s company secured a major client, SmithKline Beecham, coordinating shoots worldwide. This success established Euro-Pacific as a leading digital media firm in America.David discusses unique staffing challenges—managing crews and balancing freelancers with full-time staff. Over an 18-year partnership with Lisa, he navigated these complexities while growing the business.Now, David is pivoting toward white-label services and reducing hands-on production, a strategic move to leverage his expertise and sustain growth. His story shows that aligning business with authentic values leads to lasting success.Key Takeaways:Entrepreneurial heritage: How family history inspired David’s journey.Love’s impact: The role of personal relationships in business growth.Industry insights: Handling production staffing and operational challenges.Smart pivots: Evolving business models for sustainability.About David Calderwood:With over 30 years of experience as a director and producer, specializing in digital media, ecommerce websites, search engine marketing (SEM), ad campaign development, and live streaming video for corporate events—and still the occasional TV commercial—Dave brings extensive expertise to the field.Dave is a Kiwi (he grew up in New Zealand) and started out in the television commercial market, working with major advertising agencies and Fortune 500 companies. After arriving in the US, he founded Euro-Pacific Film & Video Productions, which focused on providing video and visual marketing services to leading corporate organizations and national TV broadcasters, leveraging his international experience and connections.Dave is currently a Florida resident with a very active client base throughout the US. He is also a Google Partner, as well as an authorized partner and reseller with GoDaddy and Zoho.Connect:Website: euro-pacific.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/euro-pacific/Facebook: facebook.com/epfvpYouTube: youtube.com/c/EuropacificDigitalThis episode is brought to you by Euro-Pacific Digital Media; experts in video production and digital marketing. Visit euro-pacific.com to learn 📅 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 success were measured by the lives you change, not by profit? Arnie Eastburn, Co-Founder, President, and CEO of Water4Life Mozambique, shows how one entrepreneur's shift in priorities can make a lasting impact, with guest co-host David Calderwood, Senior Digital Producer at Euro-Pacific Digital Media.After selling a multimillion-dollar professional employer organization, Arnie’s life was transformed during a mission trip to Mozambique. "I went from thinking about me to thinking about others," he shares, recalling the heartbreaking sight of young girls walking miles to collect contaminated water.With 60% of Africa's population lacking access to clean water, and one in five children in Mozambique dying from waterborne illness, Arnie launched Water4Life Mozambique. Since 2015, his nonprofit has drilled 863 wells, providing clean water to nearly 500,000 people. Their focus on sustainability ensures these wells continue to serve communities for years.Arnie’s story proves that success isn’t about profits, but about saving lives: "If we've saved 60-70,000 kids from death and drilled 100 wells a year, that’s what matters."Key Takeaways:From profit to purpose: Arnie’s transition from entrepreneur to humanitarian.Water crisis solutions: How Water4Life Mozambique tackles Africa's water shortage.Sustainability in action: A model ensuring long-term access to clean water.Entrepreneurial impact: Using business skills to create lasting change.About Arnie Eastburn:Arnie Eastburn is the founder of Water4Life Mozambique, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing clean, safe drinking water to communities in Mozambique. With over 376 wells drilled across the Zambezia province, his efforts have improved the lives of more than 451,000 people. Arnie’s mission, fueled by his entrepreneurial background and passion for humanitarian work, is transforming communities by combating water scarcity and improving public health. He is committed to creating a sustainable, brighter future for Mozambique’s most vulnerable populations.Connect:Website water4lifemozambique.orgFacebook facebook.com/Water4LifeMozambiqueThis episode is brought to you by Water4Life Mozambique; Drilling water wells in rural villages of Mozambique, Africa. Go to water4lifemozambique.org 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.

When two decorated military veterans decide to address the invisible wounds of war and first response, their solution is simple yet powerful: get outside.Lisa and Greg Hungiville, founders of Outdoor Warrior Nation, share their journey from military service to nonprofit leaders, co-hosted by Alex Pron, CFP®, CBDA, Founder of Crossover Capital. With Lisa’s 34 years in the Minnesota Army National Guard and Greg’s 25 years in the Marine Corps and Army National Guard, they understand the mental health challenges facing veterans and first responders. After losing friends to suicide, they launched a nonprofit offering outdoor therapy through activities like hunting, fishing, kayaking, and equine therapy.A powerful moment during a kayaking trip, when a participant said, “If it wasn’t for you and Lisa, I don’t know if I’d be on this planet today,” reflects the life-changing impact of their work, symbolized by their compass logo representing a new direction for their community.Operating in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Florida, Lisa and Greg aim to create a dedicated facility for veterans to heal in nature. Through their growing network, they’re building a support system beyond traditional therapy.As Greg puts it, their work is about "bringing people together and letting them know that we care."Key Takeaways:Military experience to nonprofit: Leveraging service to create a healing platform.The power of outdoor therapy: Helping veterans and first responders find peace in nature.Real-world impact: Testimonials highlighting the life-changing difference they’re making.Future vision: Creating a dedicated facility for veterans’ healing.About Lisa & Greg Hungiville:Lisa Hungiville was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and served in the Minnesota Army National Guard for 34 years. Her roles included G-1 senior enlisted for the 34th Infantry Division, senior enlisted S-1 for the 1st Armor Brigade Combat Team, and Deputy Chief of Staff G-1 Sergeant Major at Joint Force Headquarters in St. Paul, MN.Greg Hungiville grew up in Western Wisconsin and served 25 years in both the United States Marine Corps and Minnesota Army National Guard, with experience in infantry and Air Missile Defense. His final duty was as Chief for Air & Missile Defense in the Middle East, where he advised the Division Commander on air defense matters. Greg retired as a Lieutenant Colonel.Connect:Website outdoorwarriornation.orgFacebook facebook.com/OutdoorWarriorNationInstagram instagram.com/outdoor_warrior_nation1This episode is brought to you by Outdoor Warrior Nation; Empowering Those Who've Served. Go to outdoorwarriornation.org 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 happens when life's greatest challenges lead to extraordinary success? Sam Maddula, Pharm.D, a healthcare entrepreneur and philanthropist, shares his remarkable journey—from growing up in an impoverished village in India to building a multimillion-dollar specialty pharmacy.Born legally blind, Sam’s life was transformed by sight-saving surgery, reshaping his worldview and fueling his drive. His family’s immigration struggles and educational challenges deepened his empathy, which became the foundation for Banks Apothecary (later Altruix), a pharmacy serving underserved communities.By focusing on patient care and hiring overlooked talent, Sam grew the company to $300 million in revenue before selling to private equity. Rather than retiring, Sam founded the Maddula Foundation to support ocular health, pharmacy students, and vulnerable populations. He also created Workshop Strategy to help struggling healthcare businesses.Sam’s philosophy centers on the belief that success isn’t a zero-sum game: "You can do good and have more than one person win." This abundance mentality has allowed him to create wealth while uplifting others.For entrepreneurs, Sam’s advice is simple: "Don’t worry about what anybody else thinks, just do what feels right in your gut."Key Takeaways:Empathy as a foundation: How Sam’s hardships shaped his business model.Building with purpose: Growing Altruix by focusing on patient care and hiring overlooked talent.Abundance mentality: Creating wealth while helping others thrive.Entrepreneurial advice: Trust your instincts and pursue what feels right.About Sam Maddula Pharm.D:Healthcare leader and transformative entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience delivering exceptional operational and financial outcomes in the healthcare and specialty pharmacy sectors. Founded and scaled Bank’s Apothecary Specialty Pharmacy to $300M in annual revenue, achieving an industry-leading valuation upon sale to a private equity firm. Deep expertise in value creation, innovation, and patient-centric strategies, with a track record of successful partnerships and M&A advisory roles. Experienced board member and advisor, passionate about driving transformative impact in healthcare and private equity. Philanthropic advocate—founded the Maddula Foundation, contributing millions to healthcare and education initiatives.Connect:Website workshopstrategy.comLinkedIn linkedin.com/company/workshop-strategyThis episode is brought to you by Workshop Strategy; Merging experience, innovation, and purpose. Go to workshopstrategy.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.

In this episode, David Lopez, founder of DL Metal Design, shares his entrepreneurial journey, revealing how he turned challenges into opportunities. Co-hosted by Sam Maddula Pharm.D, this conversation highlights David’s path from a beamline operator to business owner.David’s first business, a failed Quiznos franchise, became a $100K lesson that fueled his drive in the metal industry. Despite launching DL Metal Design in January 2020 amidst the pandemic, his lean startup model allowed him to thrive as industries recovered. By 2024, David projects $10-12 million in revenue, overcoming a 40% drop in 2023.David’s proactive response to the downturn is a key moment in this discussion. Rather than panic, he used the opportunity to restructure his company, hire key personnel, and build a management system that could operate independently of his direct involvement.Looking ahead, David envisions a $75-100 million diversified conglomerate. His strategy of balancing cash-flow positive units with his main company’s payment structure is key to his long-term vision.Key Takeaways:How David launched a steel business just before the pandemic—and why the timing worked in his favorThe hidden challenges of rapid growth and why working capital is everything in constructionSmart diversification strategies that balance risk and reward in uncertain economiesThe real reason sales lagged after early success—and how he fixed itWhy a downturn can be the perfect time to restructure for future scaleDon’t miss David’s advice on trusting yourself and acting sooner! Listen to the full episode to learn how to make your next big move in business.About David Lopez:David Lopez is the founder of DL Metal Design and a seasoned leader in the steel industry since 1997. He started as a beamline operator and worked his way up, eventually managing teams responsible for over $400 million in revenue. With a career spanning executive roles and industry leadership, David deeply values the mentors who have shaped him along the way. Outside of work, he is passionate about coaching youth sports and enjoys hiking, biking, and traveling with his wife and kids. With a B.S. in Business Management from Northeastern University, David brings experience, leadership, and a love for teamwork to everything he does.Connect:Website dlmetaldesign.comLinkedIn linkedin.com/company/dl-metal-designThis episode is brought to you by DL Metal Design; A Turnkey Steel and Glass Subcontractor You Can Trust. Visit dlmetaldesign.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.

Alex Pron, founder of Crossover Capital, shares his journey from Merrill Lynch to creating a firm dedicated to educating clients on Bitcoin and alternative investments. He discusses the alarming SEC fines against major financial institutions and the importance of independent advice in protecting wealth. The conversation highlights how AI is leveling the playing field for smaller advisory firms, allowing them to offer essential guidance. Additionally, Alex examines Bitcoin's growing acceptance by major players and the need for accessible resources for investors.

Can AI supercharge your advertising strategy? Hikari Senju, CEO of Omneky, reveals how generative AI is reshaping personalized content and driving real results for brands. With a background in computer science from Harvard and a lifelong passion for technology and art, Hikari’s journey to founding Omneky seems almost inevitable.In this episode, Hikari shares how his childhood experiences, cross-registering at MIT while at Harvard, and encountering early generative AI models sparked his vision to revolutionize advertising. He dives into the challenges of scaling Omneky, growing his team to 40 employees, and learning the delicate balance of delegation and leadership.Key Takeaways:Mastering the Art of Delegation: Why trusting your team is essential for scaling a business.Building High-Performing Teams: The three key traits Hikari looks for when hiring—high integrity, high curiosity, and high energy.AI as a Collaborative Tool: How Hikari envisions AI augmenting, not replacing, human creativity.Leadership Lessons: Navigating team dynamics, communicating strategy, and fostering continuous growth.Omneky’s Vision for the Future: Taking the company public by 2027 or well on the path to an IPO.Hikari’s story is a testament to blending innovation with purpose and scaling a company that empowers brands to leverage AI for maximum impact.About Hikari Senju:Hikari Senju is the Founder & CEO of Omneky, a generative AI company based in San Francisco that personalizes and orchestrates omnichannel creative content. Hikari previously studied Computer Science at Harvard, founded an edtech company which he sold to Yup.com and became its Head of Growth. Omneky, founded in 2018, has raised over $13M in seed from Softbank, AIX Ventures and Village Global. The company is the first mover in generative AI advertising, was the first generative AI company to pitch as a finalist at TechCrunch Disrupt, and most recently was highlighted in Jensen Huang's GTC keynote.Connect:Website omneky.comLinkedIn linkedin.com/in/hikari-senju-63780199X x.com/hisenjuThis episode is brought to you by Omneky; Smarter Digital Ads For Scale. Go to omneky.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.

In this milestone 100th episode celebration, we've assembled an all-star panel of previous guests to reflect on the journey so far, sharing the biggest lessons learned, unexpected challenges faced, and the inspiring stories that have shaped this community. This episode is filled with insights that not only celebrate how far we’ve come but also explore what’s ahead for entrepreneurs striving to build impactful businesses.Through candid reflections and thoughtful conversations, this episode highlights the pivotal moments that have defined the Founders Forum. We also dive into the evolving landscape of entrepreneurship and offer actionable advice for those navigating their own paths to success.Key Takeaways:The most impactful lessons learned from 100 episodes of conversations with successful founders.The mindset shifts that can transform how you approach challenges and opportunities.Finding and retaining talent, adapting to remote work, managing generational differences, and staying competitive in increasingly crowded markets.Their complicated relationship with artificial intelligence, where it can provide both opportunities and security concerns.Strategies for maintaining resilience during uncertain times and staying aligned with your vision.How embracing adaptability and change has led to unexpected breakthroughs.A preview of what’s next for the Founders Forum and how we plan to continue empowering entrepreneurs.This special episode is packed with practical strategies and real-world advice that can transform your approach to business. Plus, we celebrate YOU—our loyal listeners—who’ve been with us every step of the way.If you’ve loved the journey so far, don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with fellow founders. Let’s keep building a community where ideas, challenges, and victories are celebrated together.Meet the Panelists:Carl Fischer, Co-Founder of CamaPlanTina Hamilton, Founder and CEO of myHR Partner, Inc.Bobby Keyes, Founder and CEO, ELITE Salons & SuitesChris Lawson, Founder and Owner of Technician Find and Astute Social Media, LLC.Craig Lerch, Associate Broker, 2 X Icon Exp Realty InternationallyRay Loewe, Podcaster, Storyteller, World Traveler, and The Luckiest Guy in the WorldDawn Mahan, PMP, Founder & CEO of PMOtraining and Author of "Meet the Players in Projectland: Decide the Right Project Roles & Get People on Board" Ang Onorato, Founder of Living Oak LeadershipKeith Scandone, Co Founder and CEO of O3 WorldThis episode is brought to you by CamaPlan, A Different Way to Invest. Go to camaplan.com/foundersforum to learn more. And by The Satell Institute; the leading CEO organization dedicated to Corporate Social Responsibility. Go to satellinstitute.org 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 a single Google search could transform your small business overnight? That’s exactly what happened to Paul Downs, a custom furniture maker who went from struggling to find clients to building boardroom tables for the Pentagon, Federal Reserve, and even SEAL Team 6.In this episode, Paul shares his 38-year entrepreneurial journey, from launching his business with no formal training to navigating the highs and lows of running a company in a rapidly evolving market. His big break came in 2003 when a photo of his boardroom table unexpectedly soared to the top of Google’s search rankings. That moment of digital luck led to nearly $70 million in revenue and a client list spanning the globe. But success wasn’t always smooth—Paul opens up about the challenges of surviving the 2008 recession, a turbulent business partnership, and the evolving landscape of craftsmanship in a digital world.Key Takeaways:The Power of SEO: How a single well-ranked image can change a business forever.Resilience Through Challenges: Lessons from nearly shutting down during the 2008 recession.Modern Leadership in a Traditional Industry: Why Paul is rethinking management to attract the next generation of craftspeople.Adapting to a Changing Market: How video conferencing and shifting client needs are shaping the future of boardroom furniture.Paul’s story is a testament to the power of adaptation, perseverance, and digital opportunity. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a craftsperson, or a business leader, this episode is packed with insights on navigating change and seizing unexpected opportunities.Listen now and discover how a mix of luck, strategy, and resilience can redefine your business.About Paul Downs:Paul Downs started making custom furniture in 1986, after graduating from the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in engineering. His company employs 28 superb craftsmen, producing all of their work in Bridgeport, Pennsylvania.Connect:Website pauldowns.netLinkedIn linkedin.com/in/paul-downs-278bb96Instagram instagram.com/pauldownscustomThis episode is brought to you by CPR MultiMedia Solutions; A Full Service AV Event Solutions Provider. Go to cprmms.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 the key to business success isn't just working harder but choosing the right market? Alan Claypool's journey from IT project management to entrepreneurship is a powerful lesson in the importance of business models, demand, and strategic pivots.After two decades managing complex IT projects, Alan founded TAC4 Solutions with a commitment to delivering results with integrity. But despite his expertise, his business was stuck in an unpredictable cycle—some years were highly profitable, while others left him without clients. The turning point? Realizing that a sustainable business depends on three factors: high market demand, low competition, and recurring revenue.Alan’s initial business—IT project management for insurance companies—wasn’t built for long-term stability. However, he had already started offering statutory accounting services, an area that perfectly fit his criteria. Every insurer needs this service regularly, there are few qualified providers, and the work never stops. By pivoting, Alan transformed his business into a steady, thriving company.Beyond strategy, Alan emphasizes the power of organizational culture. His approach—establishing clear behavioral ground rules—helped create high-trust, high-performance teams that outpaced competitors.Key Takeaways:The right business model is more important than talent or effort—look for high demand, low competition, and recurring revenue.Pivoting to a sustainable niche can make the difference between struggle and success.Company culture directly impacts business success—clear behavioral expectations lead to better teamwork and outcomes.Entrepreneurship isn’t just about sales skills; it’s about finding the right market fit.Tune in to hear Alan’s journey, the hard lessons he learned, and how you can apply these principles to build a resilient, profitable business.About Alan Claypool:Mr. Claypool is the President of TAC4 Solutions, which runs successful project implementations for insurance companies by instilling organizational health into a cohesive project team. Alan is also President of ARC Strategic Services that performs statutory accounting for insurance companies.Connect:Website tac4solutions.comarcstrategicservices.comLinkedIn linkedin.com/in/t-alan-claypool-6834205This episode is brought to you by Caregiver Smart Solutions; Aging-in-Place technology solutions. Go to caregiversmartsolutions.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.