Level Up with Lydia

Lydia Navo

Welcome to Level Up with Lydia — a no BS, no fluff business podcast. I’m Lydia Navo, and this is where we skip the small talk and dive deep into real conversations and raw interviews designed to help you level up your game. If you’re done playing nice and ready to get real, you’re in the right place. Let’s get into it.

  1. Level Up with Lydia feat. Travis Hogue

    2 DAYS AGO

    Level Up with Lydia feat. Travis Hogue

    Most entrepreneurs stumble into success by luck, but Travis Hoag found a blueprint that accelerated his growth by years. From starting a business to building a multi-location empire, he reveals how strategic partnerships, data-driven marketing, and a relentless focus on company culture transformed his business into Florida’s leading outdoor lighting provider. In this episode, you’ll discover how to harness the power of strategic growth to scale faster than you ever imagined, why cash flow planning is a game-changer (even if you’ve hidden from your numbers), and the secrets behind building a team that truly cares about your company's vision. Travis shares the surprising tactics that turned small marketing experiments into million-dollar projects , including a $35,000 backyard lighting upgrade that almost didn’t happen and a review strategy that skyrocketed his online reputation. We break down the importance of diversifying your marketing streams, the art of firing bad apples to preserve your culture, and why surrounding yourself with high-achieving peers can turbocharge your growth. Plus, get his no-nonsense approach to hiring, emphasizing culture fit and rapid decision-making, and lessons on setting achievable goals that push your business forward, not just keep you afloat. If you’re a business owner feeling stuck in the day-to-day or craving a proven growth system, this episode is your cheat code for creating a luxury brand that stands out, and scales profitably. Whether you’re contemplating strategic partnerships or just want to understand the numbers that matter, Travis’s insights will inspire you to take faster, smarter action. Prepare to rethink what’s possible, because the blueprint for scaling your business is already in front of you. Perfect for aspiring entrepreneurs and established business owners ready to level up their game. Don’t miss this inside look at how one man turned an idea into a million-dollar business with purpose and precision.

    36 min
  2. Level Up with Lydia feat. John Brucato

    27 APR

    Level Up with Lydia feat. John Brucato

    When John first got into this industry, it was out of pure anger, seeing his parents misled and hurt. He I didn’t have a plan, just a want to fix something wrong. And honestly? That’s how most entrepreneurs start: with passion, not a perfect blueprint. In this episode of Level Up with Lydia, John Brucato highlight the importance of licensing, trust, and proactive financial planning for business owners. Key topics include choosing the right financial advisor, avoiding common pitfalls, and building a solid financial foundation. John emphasizes the impact of emotions on financial decisions and the value of assembling a reliable team around your business. Practical advice includes starting small, building habits, and adjusting strategies as needed. The episode also covers the significance of verifying advisor credentials and the benefits of professional financial advising in removing emotion from decision-making. Remember—building wealth and success is about consistency, not luck. Contact info for Guesta John Brucato Website: https://www.primerica.com/johnbrucato IG: john_htxfinancialcoach Phone: 732-668-5731 #SmallBizTips #FinancialFreedom #BusinessGrowth #AccountingHacks #LevelUpwithLydia

    33 min
  3. Level Up with Lydia feat. Kris Allee

    20 APR

    Level Up with Lydia feat. Kris Allee

    Most small business owners are flying blind because they treat accounting as a compliance chore rather than a strategic tool. What if you learned that the difference between thriving and just surviving hinges on how you understand and use your financial data? In this eye-opening episode, accounting professor Kris Allee reveals why countless entrepreneurs ignore the power of their numbers, and how doing so puts their business at risk. Kris shares practical, no-nonsense advice rooted in two decades of teaching and research. You'll discover why cash flow is more vital than your revenue figures, and how knowing your true costs can make or break your profitability. We break down the simple but often overlooked steps to start your business on solid financial footing, including essential tools and how to leverage AI for smarter decisions. Plus, insights on how to communicate effectively with investors and banks by speaking the language of business. Whether you're a newbie entrepreneur or scaling an existing operation, this episode exposes the costly pitfalls of ignoring your numbers and offers actionable strategies to turn your financial records into your greatest asset. Learn how monthly check-ins, comparison analysis, and clear reporting can prevent business failure and unlock your growth potential. Don’t start your business without this foundational knowledge, your future self will thank you. Kris Allee is an accounting professor at the University of Arkansas, known for his research on financial statement communication and his passion for empowering entrepreneurs with practical financial skills. His insights are grounded in real-world experience and academic expertise, making complex concepts accessible and actionable. Perfect for new business owners, small startups, or anyone ready to leverage accounting for strategic growth, this episode is your blueprint for financial clarity and confident decision-making. Hit play and learn how to turn numbers into a competitive advantage today!

    32 min
  4. Level Up with Lydia feat. Patricia Nagle

    13 APR

    Level Up with Lydia feat. Patricia Nagle

    Unlock the secrets to building a strong, sustainable business with expert Patricia Nagel, who’s been in banking for 31+ years, and discover the proven strategies that can prevent costly mistakes. If you're a small business owner or aspiring entrepreneur, missing out on the right financial guidance could be holding you back from your true potential. In this episode of Level Up with Lydia, Patricia shares her inspiring journey from community banker to EVP at First State Bank, revealing what makes local, relationship-driven banks so vital for small business success. You'll learn how understanding your financials, building a trusted team, and leveraging hard assets like real estate and equipment can give you a competitive edge. Plus, get insider tips on avoiding pitfalls like over-leverage, managing cash flow, and decoding complex banking language, so you can speak confidently with lenders and make smarter decisions. We break down practical advice you can implement right now: when to engage with your banker, how to prepare a solid business plan, and the critical importance of financial literacy. Patricia explains why structured financing, collateral, and conservative lending practices minimize risk and maximize growth opportunities. Her insights on asset-based lending, credit ratios, and the power of local decision-making equip you to better evaluate your options and protect your business’s future. This episode is perfect for entrepreneurs ready to deepen their financial understanding, streamline operations, and forge relationships that accelerate growth. If you're committed to avoiding the common pitfalls that sink businesses, like mismanaging leverage or neglecting key team members, this conversation is your essential blueprint. Patricia’s passion for community outreach, health, and local partnerships underscores her belief that strong relationships and honest communication are the backbone of business resilience. Her tips on financial literacy resources, team retention, and strategic planning will empower you to take control now, so you can grow with confidence and security. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up, this episode delivers transformative insights from a seasoned banking pro who’s been in your shoes, and knows exactly how to help you thrive.

    31 min
  5. Level Up with Lydia feat. David Palma

    7 APR

    Level Up with Lydia feat. David Palma

    In this episode of Level Up with Lydia, we delve into the world of payment processing with David Palma, a seasoned expert and business owner. Discover actionable tips on choosing the right systems, building client relationships, and overcoming industry challenges to elevate your business. Key Topics David's journey from banking to founding a payment processing companyThe importance of integrity and transparency in payment solutionsHow personalized customer support can boost client retentionStrategy tips for starting and growing a payment processing businessWays to use payment systems to enhance sales and customer experienceThe significance of ongoing education and industry awarenessEffective networking and referral strategies for business growthOvercoming team motivation challenges in a boutique environmentRecognizing when to seek outside support and balance workloadPractical advice for reevaluating existing contracts and systems Contact info for Guest David Palma Web: https://www.payedprocessing.com/ Phone: 346-600-9624

    34 min
  6. Level Up with Lydia feat. Kurt Podeszwa

    30 MAR

    Level Up with Lydia feat. Kurt Podeszwa

    Most non-profits treat fundraising as an afterthought. Kurt Podeszwa, President of Camp Aranzazu, reveals how strategic relationship-building and rethinking business as usual transformed their approach—and doubled their impact. Discover how investing in people, creating controlled growth, and telling compelling stories can unlock sustainable funding for a cause you believe in. In this inspiring episode, Kurt shares the secret behind Camp Aranzazu’s success: a focus on partnership instead of traditional registration, enabling the organization to serve a broad spectrum of campers with disabilities, veterans, and chronic illnesses. He explains how strategic alliances with nonprofits allow Camp Aranzazu to tailor services without overextending their resources, and how deliberate service differentiation ensures quality isn’t sacrificed in growth. You'll discover: The power of relationship-driven fundraising—beyond just asking for donationsHow to align your mission with targeted, manageable expansionWhy investing in your team and volunteers yields exponential benefitsPractical tips for storytelling that attract donors and build communityThe importance of focusing on your organization’s niche instead of trying to do everythingWhy does this matter? Because organizations that master relationship cultivation and strategic reinvestment build resilience and create lasting change. Whether you're running a nonprofit or a small business, the principles Kurt shares will help you turn good intentions into thriving enterprises that truly serve their people—and grow sustainably. Perfect for nonprofit leaders, social entrepreneurs, and mission-driven business owners—if you're tired of feeling stuck in a cycle of begging for funds and want to create a self-sustaining impact machine, this episode is your blueprint. Get ready to shift your perspective and start building relationships that last—because the future of your organization depends on it.

    41 min
  7. Level Up with Lydia feat. Erin Berger

    24 MAR

    Level Up with Lydia feat. Erin Berger

    Summary In this episode, real estate broker Erin Berger shares her journey from drywall to real estate, discusses what sets her apart in a saturated market, and offers valuable advice for both clients and aspiring agents. Learn how to succeed by playing to your strengths, networking effectively, and maintaining resilience through challenges. Key Topics Difference between real estate agent and broker Importance of answering the phone and client communication Playing to personal strengths and creativity in marketing Networking strategies for real estate success Handling nightmare transactions and overcoming failures

    28 min
  8. Level Up with Lydia feat. Eric Taulbee

    16 MAR

    Level Up with Lydia feat. Eric Taulbee

    Are you a small business owner concerned about cybersecurity, data protection, and IT infrastructure? In this episode, Lydia chats with Eric Taulbee of Arc I.T. Consultants, uncovering vital strategies to safeguard your business and ensure resilience in the face of cyber threats and operational disruptions. Key Topics: Eric's journey from employment to entrepreneurship and the importance of taking control of your businessBuilding trust with clients through consistent and ethical communicationCritical IT services for small to large enterprises, including cybersecurity and staff trainingThe realities of cyber threats like phishing, ransomware, and insider risksBest practices for backups, air gapping, and disaster recovery planningThe role and value of cyber insurance in mitigating financial lossesHow Internal threats and inside jobs can undermine your securityActionable tips for preventing attacks, including staff education and scalable cybersecurity toolsReal-world cyber attack stories, including catastrophic ransomware events and recovery strategiesImportant documentation: creating a “hit by a bus” plan to ensure business continuity

    47 min
See All (17)

About

Welcome to Level Up with Lydia — a no BS, no fluff business podcast. I’m Lydia Navo, and this is where we skip the small talk and dive deep into real conversations and raw interviews designed to help you level up your game. If you’re done playing nice and ready to get real, you’re in the right place. Let’s get into it.

Information