Dads, Deals & Dumbbells

Mitchell Quill and Joe Giamanco
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Entrepreneurship

 2 entrepreneurial dads talk fatherhood, business, and staying fit (while staying sane). Expect real talk, real stories, great laughs and the occasional rant. 

  1. 19h ago

    Deal or Dumpster Fire: How to Evaluate a Business Before You Buy It - S2E13

    Thinking about buying a small business instead of starting one from scratch? In this episode of Dads, Deals & Dumbbells, Joe and Dr. Quill break down how to evaluate a business under $100,000 before you write the check. We’re talking about the kinds of deals regular people actually see: lawn care routes, cleaning businesses, mobile detailing setups, vending routes, small e-commerce stores, local service businesses, fitness client lists, equipment-based side hustles, and more. Some are legit opportunities. Some are overpriced jobs with a logo. And some are full-blown dumpster fires. In this episode, we cover: What you’re really buying in a sub-$100K business deal How to verify revenue before trusting the seller’s story Why SDE matters more than fancy financial terms How to calculate valuation and payback period When a customer list is actually worth something How to spot owner dependency What equipment and assets should be included Deal structure basics for small acquisitions Real-world “Deal or Dumpster Fire” scenarios The big question: are you buying cash flow, customers, equipment, a brand, or just a stressful second job? Joe brings the legal and business perspective. Dr. Quill brings the health, dad-life, and real-world operator mindset. Together, they walk through the red flags, green flags, and sanity checks every future business buyer should know. Small deals can be a great first step into ownership — or a very expensive way to buy yourself nights, weekends, and a used trailer full of regret. Subscribe for more episodes on fatherhood, entrepreneurship, fitness, mindset, and building something that actually cash flows. Now go lift something heavy, hug your kids, and close a smart deal. Episode Title: Deal or Dumpster Fire: How to Evaluate a Business Before You Buy It Podcast: Dads, Deals & Dumbbells Hosts: Joe and Dr. Mitchell Quill Topics: Small business acquisition, entrepreneurship, dad life, deal evaluation, cash flow, fitness mindset #DadsDealsAndDumbbells #SmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #BusinessAcquisition #DadLife #CashFlow #BuyABusiness #FitnessAndBusiness #BusinessTips #EntrepreneurDad

  2. May 20

    Inside Crunch Fitness: Dad Life, Leadership, Fitness & Building Confidence - S2E11

    💪 Inside Crunch Fitness: Dad Life, Leadership, Fitness & Building Confidence | Dads, Deals and Dumbbells Podcast 🏋️‍♂️🔥 This week, we took the podcast ON THE ROAD to the brand-new Crunch Fitness in Bolingbrook — and this episode turned into way more than a gym tour. Joe and Dr. Quill sit down with Crunch GM Jadae McGuire to talk about: Building confidence through fitness Raising strong, resilient kids Coaching athletes and future leaders Entrepreneurship and employee culture Why dads need to stop trying to do everything alone And how fitness changes way more than just your body If you’ve ever struggled balancing business, fatherhood, health, and life chaos — this episode is packed with real talk, motivation, and practical advice. 🔥 In This Episode: Why small daily habits matter more than perfection The mindset difference between good athletes and great leaders How confidence is built in the gym AND at home Why dads need to let kids fail sometimes The importance of emotional discipline for kids Fitness advice for busy dads who haven’t worked out in years How gyms like Crunch help beginners avoid injury and stay consistent Entrepreneurship lessons on hiring, leadership, and company culture 🏋️ Crunch Fitness Bolingbrook Highlights: Massive 24/7 facility Dual turf areas Olympic lifting platforms Functional training zones Group fitness classes Sauna and recovery center Childcare included Affordable memberships Personal training and fitness planning Huge thanks to Jadae and the Crunch team for hosting us and giving us a behind-the-scenes look at one of the best fitness facilities in the area. 📍 Crunch Fitness Bolingbrook 352 Commons Drive Bolingbrook, Illinois 💥 Favorite Quotes From This Episode: "Confidence changes everything." "You can teach speed. You can teach strength. But you need the willingness to grow." "Your kids don’t need perfection — they need consistency." "Fitness is education. Don’t walk into a gym without a plan." 👊 Whether you’re: A dad trying to get back in shape A business owner managing a team A former athlete chasing consistency again Or just trying to survive parenthood without losing your sanity… …this episode is for you. 📲 Help Support the Show: ✅ Subscribe for weekly episodes ✅ Like and share this episode ✅ Drop a comment with your favorite gym, workout hack, or dad lesson ✅ Send this to a dad who needs motivation to get back in the gym 🎙️ Dads, Deals and Dumbbells is the podcast where fatherhood, entrepreneurship, fitness, and mindset all collide. Hosted by a lawyer and a chiropractor navigating business ownership, raising kids, and trying to stay strong physically and mentally. #DadPodcast #FitnessMotivation #CrunchFitness #Bolingbrook #EntrepreneurDad #DadLife #GymMotivation #MensHealth #BusinessLeadership #Fatherhood #WorkoutMotivation #DadsDealsAndDumbbells #PersonalDevelopment #SmallBusinessOwner #FitnessJourney

  3. Apr 25

    One Bad Review Can Cost You Big: Protecting Your Business Online with Julia Hensel - S2E10

    One bad review can cost you real money.  In this episode of Dads, Deals & Dumbbells, Joe and Dr. Quill sit down with entrepreneur Julia Hensel, owner of Lexigate and RepSpert, to talk about how negative reviews, fake reviews, and social media attacks can damage a business faster than most owners realize. They break down what business owners should actually do when a bad review shows up, the biggest mistakes people make when they panic online, and how to protect your reputation without making the situation worse.  Julia also shares her perspective on entrepreneurship through acquisition, founder stress, and the emotional toll that public criticism can take when you’re trying to build something meaningful. In this episode, we cover: -How bad Google reviews impact trust, leads, and revenue -The difference between fair criticism and fake or removable reviews -Why emotional responses usually backfire -How social media pile-ons can escalate fast -What every entrepreneur should document before a situation gets worse -Why protecting your reputation is really protecting your business Whether you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, dad building something from the ground up, or just someone trying to survive the internet without losing your mind, this episode is packed with practical advice and real talk. About the show: Dads, Deals & Dumbbells is where dad life meets business hustle and barbells. Hosted by Joe and Dr. Mitchell Quill, the show covers fatherhood, entrepreneurship, health, fitness, and mindset with a sharp, funny, no-BS approach. Connect with us: Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with another entrepreneur who needs to hear it. email:  dadsdealsanddumbbells@gmail.com Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575481144492 Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/dadsdealsanddumbbells/ Want to get some help from Julia?  Here's how you can reach her:  Finally, here are the contact details for us: • Lexigate o https://lexigate.com/ o Insta: https://www.instagram.com/lexigate_com/ o LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lexigate o Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lexigateagency/ • RepSpert o https://www.repspert.com/ o Insta: https://www.instagram.com/repspert/ o LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/repspert/ o Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/repspert/ • Personal o linkedin.com/in/juliawittrockhensel #DadsDealsDumbbells #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #ReputationManagement #GoogleReviews #BusinessGrowth #FounderMindset #DadLife #Podcast #SocialMediaCrisis

  4. Apr 8

    Sweep the Ice: Our First Time Curling with Tom Arra - S2E8

    Dads, Deals and Dumbbells: The Podcast What happens when two entrepreneurial dads trade dumbbells for brooms and try one of the strangest-looking Olympic sports on earth? In this episode, Joe and Dr. Quill head to Windy City Curling to learn the basics of curling with Tom Arra — software product builder, triathlete, curling coach, and proud dog dad. What starts as a fun new experience turns into a real lesson in discipline, mindset, fitness, and why curling is way harder than it looks on TV. We get into: 🥌 Tom’s background in big companies vs. startups 💼 The difference between structure and chaos in business 🧠 His personal motto: “Just show up” 🏃 Triathlon training, brick workouts, and choosing suffering on purpose 🐶 Dog dad life, snacks, and the legendary Roomba incident 🧹 Why sweeping is basically aggressive mopping with consequences 😂 Our final verdict on whether curling is a “real sport” Big thanks to Tom Arra and the team at Windy City Curling for showing us the ropes and letting us embarrass ourselves on the ice. 📍 Windy City Curling 146 Roosevelt Rd. Villa Park, IL 60181 📞 Phone Event Booking / Learn to Curl / Corporate Outings: (630) 426-9150 Club Membership & Leagues: (630) 791-0138 🌐 Website windycitycurling.com 📱 Follow Windy City Curling Instagram: @windycitycurling Facebook: Windy City Curling / @WindyCityCurling X: @WindyCity_CC If you enjoyed the episode, laughed at us, or learned something new, make sure to like, subscribe, and share with another dad who’s juggling family, business, and staying in shape. Check us out on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575481144492 Instagram:  Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/1n7E2M76p2dBbobjOvsTye email:  dadsdealsanddumbbells@gmail.com #DadsDealsDumbbells #Curling #WindyCityCurling #DadLife #EntrepreneurDad #Fitness #Podcast

  5. Mar 19

    Getting Stretched LIVE at StretchZone (w/ Michael Graczyk)

    Dads, Deals & Dumbbells | Getting Stretched LIVE at StretchZone (w/ Michael Graczyk) What happens when two dads who lift… realize they probably should’ve been stretching this whole time? In this episode, we record LIVE at StretchZone Naperville while getting professionally stretched (yes, during the podcast 😅). We’re joined by Michael Graczyk—registered nurse, real estate investor, entrepreneur, and multi-location StretchZone owner—who walks us through why mobility might be the most overlooked piece of your health. Spoiler: our hamstrings were not prepared. 💪 What We Cover: Recording a podcast while being stretched in real time The difference between working out vs. actually moving well Michael’s journey from healthcare → real estate → fitness business owner What it’s like stepping into the role of a dad (and stepdad) Why mobility declines after 30 (and what to do about it) The truth about tight hips, bad posture, and desk life Whether stretching is recovery… or low-key torture 🧠 Key Takeaways: Mobility is the missing link for most guys lifting weights Strength without flexibility = future injury waiting to happen If you sit all day, stretching isn’t optional—it’s maintenance Assisted stretching can unlock ranges of motion you can’t reach alone Building a business starts with exploring opportunities and taking calculated risks Dad wisdom: listen more than you lecture 🔥 Recurring Bits: Dad Hack of the Week – from Michael Quill’s Corner – Why your hips and hamstrings are probably the problem Live reactions from two guys realizing how tight they actually are 🏋️ About the Guest: Michael Graczyk Registered Nurse Real Estate Investor Owner of multiple StretchZone locations (Naperville, Western Springs, Willowbrook) Dad, athlete, and mobility advocate 📍 Shoutout: Huge thanks to StretchZone Naperville for hosting us and putting our bodies (and egos) to the test. Check them out here:  https://www.stretchzone.com/locations/naperville-il https://www.facebook.com/StretchZoneNaperville 👊 About the Show: Dads, Deals & Dumbbells is where fatherhood meets entrepreneurship and fitness. We’re two dads—a chiropractor and a lawyer—talking real life: raising kids, building businesses, and staying strong mentally and physically. 🔔 Don’t Forget: If you enjoyed the episode: 👍 Like 🔔 Subscribe 📤 Share with a dad who needs to stretch more 📩 Get Involved: Got a dad hack, wild story, or question? Drop it in the comments—we might feature it on the show. Now go lift something heavy… tuck your kids in… and maybe get stretched.

  6. Mar 18

    Never Back to Zero — Building a Life That Can’t Collapse | Dads, Deals & Dumbbells

    What if you structured your life so you never had to start over from zero? Last episode we talked about how we’d rebuild if everything disappeared. This week we go deeper — how to build a life that’s almost impossible to collapse in the first place. Because real wealth isn’t what you earn.  It’s what survives disruption. In this episode, Joe and Dr. Mitchell Quill break down the Five Pillars of Anti-Fragility — the systems that protect your business, your family, and your future when life throws punches. We talk about: • Why one income stream is the most dangerous financial position • The truth about liquidity and why cash equals optionality • How reputation capital can save you faster than money • Why physical strength and stress management affect your income • The overlooked role of marriage and family alignment in financial stability • Asset protection basics every entrepreneur should understand If you’re a dad building a business, raising a family, and trying to stay mentally and physically strong — this episode is for you. Because resilience isn’t luck.  It’s engineered. Episode Highlights Dad Hack of the Week How to run a Family Financial Clarity Meeting so your household understands where money goes and what happens if something unexpected happens. The Five Pillars of Never Going Back to Zero Income Diversification Liquidity & Runway Reputation Capital Physical & Mental Resilience Marriage & Family Alignment Joe’s Judgment A practical look at asset protection, LLC structures, umbrella insurance, and estate planning basics. Key Takeaways • One income stream is a dependency • Liquidity buys time • Relationships are currency • Strength is insurance • Your nervous system determines your ceiling • You’re building a life — not just revenue Subscribe & Follow If you’re a dad chasing family, fitness, and financial freedom, this show is for you. 👍 Like the episode 📩 Share it with another dad building something 🔔 Subscribe for new episodes every week Connect With Us Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dadsdealsanddumbbells/ Email: dadsdealsanddumbbells@gmail.com Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575481144492  Dads, Deals & Dumbbells Where fatherhood, business, and strength meet. Lift heavy. Think long-term. Build something that doesn’t collapse.

  7. Mar 17

    If We Lost Everything Tomorrow — The 90-Day Professional Reset Plan

    What if it all disappeared? The business. The income. The title. The status. In this episode of Dads, Deals & Dumbbells, Joe and Dr. Quill break down exactly how they would rebuild from zero — financially, physically, and mentally — in the first 90 days. No fantasy. No motivational fluff. No “I’d just grind harder.” This is a real-world, step-by-step reset strategy for dads who refuse to stay down. Because you’re not your business… But you are responsible for what happens next. What We Cover: Week 1: Stabilize Cut expenses immediately Call lenders before they call you Control the narrative at home Stop emotional decisions and panic-posting Lift heavy. Walk daily. Sleep like it’s your job. When life feels out of control, your body cannot. Days 7–30: Generate Cash Flow Consulting Contract work Flipping assets Selling skills Swallowing pride “Pride is expensive. Cash flow is oxygen.” Days 30–90: Strategic Rebuild What skills are actually monetizable? Build, buy, or partner? Protect your marriage Protect your routines Protect your kids’ stability Rebuilding at the cost of your home life isn’t a rebuild — it’s a trade. Joe’s Judgment -Personal guarantees. -SBA loans. -Cross-collateralized debt. - “If you don’t understand what you signed, you’re not starting over — you’re dragging chains.” Rapid-Fire Takeaways Your identity cannot be your business. Train even when broke. Network before you need it. Marriage over money. Health is leverage. This episode is part strategy, part therapy, part locker room speech. If you’re a dad building a business, chasing strength, and trying to lead your family well — this one’s for you. 👊 If this hit home:   - Subscribe   - Share it with another dad   - Drop a comment: What’s your first move if everything resets tomorrow?   - Check us out on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575481144492    - Check us out on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/dadsdealsanddumbbells/ Until next time… Lift heavy. Think long-term. And remember — you’re never one setback away from being done. You’re one decision away from rebuilding. #DadsDealsDumbbells #EntrepreneurDad #BusinessReset #Fatherhood #MentalStrength #FitnessMindset

  8. Feb 20

    Where the Deals are Hiding: How to Find a Business for Sale

    Where the Deals Are Hiding: How to Find a Business for Sale (Without Getting Burned) Thinking about buying a business? Before you wire money, sign an LOI, or fall in love with a “great opportunity”… listen to this. In this episode of Dads, Deals & Dumbbells, we break down where businesses are actually found—and why the best deals usually aren’t sitting online waiting for you. We cover: -The truth about online marketplaces like BizBuySell and BizQuest -How business brokers really work (and who they actually represent) -Why most great deals are off-market -Who to talk to if you want real opportunities -What NOT to say when contacting an owner -And the legal landmine that can stick you with someone else’s tax debt ⚖️ In Joe’s Judgment, we explain successor liability in plain English—and why skipping one critical step before closing could mean you just bought someone else’s tax problem. 💪 Dr. Quill also talks about the stress of acquisitions and how not to wreck your body (or your marriage) chasing a deal. Because remember: You’re not buying a business. You’re buying cash flow, people… and problems. If you’re: A dad thinking about entrepreneurship Looking to buy your first business Exploring acquisition entrepreneurship Trying to grow without blowing up your health or family This one’s for you. A few resources: https://www.bizbuysell.com https://www.businessesforsale.com https://www.businessbroker.net https://www.loopnet.com https://www.dealstream.com https://www.franchisedirect.com If this episode saved you from a bad deal, a bad contract, or a bad tax surprise— 👉 Subscribe 👉 Leave a review 👉 Share it with another dad who’s thinking bigger Until next time— Lift heavy. Think long-term. And don’t buy a business without doing your homework. #DadsDealsDumbbells #BuyABusiness #EntrepreneurDad #SmallBusinessAcquisition #DadLife #BusinessTips

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About

 2 entrepreneurial dads talk fatherhood, business, and staying fit (while staying sane). Expect real talk, real stories, great laughs and the occasional rant. 

Information

  • Creator
    Mitchell Quill and Joe Giamanco
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    39
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Dads, Deals & Dumbbells
  • Show Website
    Dads, Deals & Dumbbells