Carolina Business Leadership Show

LifeTime Insurance Agency team
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Entrepreneurship

Conversations with entrepreneurs and executives shaping business across the Carolinas. The Carolina Business Leadership Show brings you real conversations with inspiring entrepreneurs, executives, and business leaders from North and South Carolina. Hosted by the LifeTime Insurance Agency team, who understand the heartbeat of local business, each episode explores how these leaders grow companies, overcome challenges, and lead with purpose. Tune in for actionable lessons and insider perspectives from the Carolinas’ most impactful business minds.

  1. 2d ago

    People Matter: Bryan Harris on Relationship-Driven Growth & Leadership in Construction

    What happens when you bring a hospitality mindset into commercial construction?Bryan Harris spent nearly three decades with Outback Steakhouse before making the leap into construction. Today, as Director of Operations at Integrity Services Group in Raleigh, North Carolina, he’s applying many of the same lessons about people, service, trust, and relationships to an entirely different industry. In this episode of the Carolina Business Leadership Show, Bryan joins Aubrey Fitzloff to talk about why sustainable business growth starts with finding the right people, not simply chasing the next contract. Bryan shares how Integrity has built its growth strategy around long-term client relationships, trusted subcontractor and vendor partnerships, and a commitment to delivering an experience that keeps people coming back. He also explains why he’d rather do a lot of work for a few great clients than a little work for everyone. They discuss scaling without sacrificing culture, navigating growth in Raleigh’s commercial construction market, developing strong teams, communicating through uncertainty, creating work-life balance, and the leadership principle Bryan keeps returning to: people matter. You’ll also hear Bryan’s perspective on “getting to yes,” why listening is one of a leader’s most important skills, and how doing the small things for clients and your community can lead to some of your biggest opportunities. If you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, or leader looking to grow through stronger relationships rather than transactional networking, this conversation offers practical lessons you can apply. In this episode: • Relationship-driven business growth • Building client trust and loyalty • Leadership lessons from hospitality • Scaling teams and subcontractor partnerships • Commercial construction in Raleigh, NC • Communication and client experience • Employee well-being and work-life balance • Community involvement and word-of-mouth referrals • Building a values-driven company Guest: Bryan Harris, Director of Operations, Integrity Services Group Host: Aubrey Fitzloff, Carolina Business Leadership Show

  2. Aug 24

    Building a Construction Business on Trust, Quality & Relationships with Corey Mercer

    What does it take to build a construction business from scratch in a new city, without an established network? In this episode of the Carolina Business Leadership Show, host Aubrey Fitzloff sits down with Corey Mercer, founder of Tekton Builds in Greenville, South Carolina, to talk about entrepreneurship, construction leadership, craftsmanship, and building a reputation through trust. Corey shares the reality behind becoming your own boss, including the early realization that entrepreneurship doesn't necessarily mean more freedom. He explains how a commitment to quality craftsmanship, customer service, and strong relationships helped Tekton Builds establish itself in a new market and grow largely through referrals. The conversation also explores Corey's approach to employees and trade partners, why he believes contractors should treat subcontractors as true partners, and how communication between builders, architects, designers, and clients can make or break the construction experience. Corey and Aubrey also dig into the business side of growth, from knowing your numbers and building financial reserves to managing stress, protecting your time, navigating potential supply-chain and tariff challenges, and creating systems that allow a company to scale without sacrificing quality. Looking ahead, Corey shares his interest in custom home construction and high-performance homes, including the "Pretty Good House" concept and the opportunity to build more durable, energy-efficient homes without putting them financially out of reach for the average homeowner. In this episode, we discuss:Building a referral-driven construction business in a new marketWhy entrepreneurship isn't the freedom many new business owners expectLearning to let go of control as a leaderHiring employees and subcontractors for quality and trustWhy Corey calls subcontractors trade partnersBuilding productive relationships with architects and designersGrowing through reputation instead of relying heavily on advertisingProtecting a client's home and their budgetCustom construction and the future of high-performance homesBuilding financial reserves and understanding your numbers before scalingManaging stress and protecting your time as an entrepreneurPreparing a construction business for tariffs and changing costsThe importance of continuous learning for business ownersResources MentionedProfit First by Mike Michalowicz The E-Myth Revisited by Michael E. Gerber Modern Craftsman podcast Fine Homebuilding The Pretty Good House concept Connect with Corey MercerTekton Builds Greenville, South Carolina Website: Search Tekton Builds online Instagram: @tektonbuilds Facebook: Tekton Builds LinkedIn: Tekton Builds And as Corey points out in the episode: it's Tekton Builds, not Builders. If you enjoyed this episode, follow the Carolina Business Leadership Show so you don't miss future conversations with entrepreneurs and business leaders across North and South Carolina. Share this episode with a business owner, construction professional, or aspiring entrepreneur who would benefit from Corey's perspective on building a company through craftsmanship, relationships, and trust.

  3. Aug 3

    Home Staging, Interior Design & Leadership with Nancy Jones | Envision Interiors NC

    What makes a buyer fall in love with a home? In this episode of the Carolina Business Leadership Show, host Carol Willard sits down with Nancy Jones, founder of Envision Interiors NC, to explore the psychology of home staging, interior design, and the leadership principles behind building a successful relationship-driven business. Nancy shares how decades of experience in design, remodeling, and real estate have taught her that staging isn't just about making a home look beautiful—it's about helping buyers envision their future. From understanding furniture scale and color psychology to creating memorable first impressions, she explains why strategic design can significantly impact a home's value, days on market, and final selling price. The conversation also dives into entrepreneurship, building and retaining a talented team, navigating changing real estate markets, and why serving people—not chasing profits—has been the foundation of her success. Whether you're a Realtor, home stager, business owner, or homeowner preparing to sell, this episode is packed with practical insights you can put into action. In this episode, we discuss:Why only a small percentage of buyers can visualize an empty homeThe psychology behind successful home staging and interior designCommon mistakes homeowners make before listing their homesThe differences between staging, occupied restyling, and remodelingBuilding a business through relationships and referralsLeadership lessons from growing a creative teamHow staging can increase a home's value and reduce days on marketAdvice for entrepreneurs and aspiring home staging professionals Connect with Nancy Jones 📱 Instagram: @envisioninteriorsnc 💼 Email: nancy@envisioninteriorsnc.com 🌐 Website: envisioninteriorsnc.com If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the Carolina Business Leadership Show, leave a review, and share this episode with another business owner, Realtor, or leader who would benefit from the conversation.

  4. Jul 21

    Leading with Trust: Real Estate, Relationships, and Downsizing with Amy Lance

    How Amy Lance Helps Clients Downsize with Confidence Through Trust, Organization & Local Expertise What makes a great real estate agent? It's not just market knowledge or negotiation skills. It's the ability to build trust during one of the biggest transitions in someone's life. In this episode of the Carolina Business Leadership Show, host Carol Willard talks with Amy Lance, a luxury real estate advisor with Daniel Ravenel Sotheby's International Realty in Beaufort, South Carolina. With more than 30 years of experience in sales, nonprofit leadership, construction, and luxury real estate, Amy shares how authentic relationships, organization, and local expertise have become the foundation of her business. Amy discusses what it takes to guide buyers and sellers through major life transitions, why downsizing is about much more than square footage, and how understanding a client's lifestyle leads to better decisions. She also explains the value of referral relationships, creating exceptional client experiences, and using systems and technology to deliver consistent service. In this episode, you'll learn:How nonprofit leadership prepared Amy for a successful real estate careerWhy trust is the most valuable asset in any client relationshipWhat buyers should consider before relocating to South Carolina's LowcountryPractical advice for downsizing and planning for retirementHow relationship-driven businesses generate referrals that last for yearsWhy organization, systems, and AI are transforming the real estate industryThe importance of local knowledge when helping clients buy or sell a home Whether you're a homeowner, REALTOR®, entrepreneur, or business leader, this conversation offers practical insights on leadership, customer experience, and building relationships that create long-term success. Connect with Amy Lance📍 Daniel Ravenel Sotheby's International Realty 📧 amy@danielravenel.com 📍 Beaufort, South Carolina Subscribe to the Carolina Business Leadership Show for weekly conversations with entrepreneurs, founders, and business leaders from across North and South Carolina who are sharing practical lessons on leadership, growth, relationships, and building businesses that make a lasting impact. Amy Lance, Daniel Ravenel Sotheby's International Realty, Beaufort SC real estate, South Carolina real estate, luxury real estate, downsizing, retirement relocation, relocation guide, REALTOR®, real estate leadership, customer experience, relationship marketing, entrepreneurship, leadership podcast, Carolina Business Leadership Show

  5. Jul 13

    How Matt Howard Built a Referral-Based Remodeling Business Through Trust, Systems & Leadership

    What does it take to build a successful business without relying on paid leads or aggressive sales tactics? In this episode of the Carolina Business Leadership Show, Aubrey Fitzloff talks with Matt Howard, founder of SCOMA Construction Services LLC in Raleigh, North Carolina. Matt has spent more than 15 years building a residential remodeling company fueled almost entirely by referrals, reputation, and exceptional customer experiences. Matt shares how implementing repeatable systems, focusing on relationships, and embracing a mindset of ownership helped him grow from a one-man operation into a thriving business with a trusted team. During the conversation, we discuss: • How referrals become your most valuable marketing strategy • Why systems and processes are essential for sustainable business growth • Creating a customer experience that earns lifelong trust • Leading through accountability and "extreme ownership" • Building a company culture that empowers employees • Balancing entrepreneurship with family life and personal priorities • Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs entering the construction industry Whether you're a contractor, entrepreneur, business owner, or leader looking to scale your company while maintaining exceptional customer service, this episode offers practical insights you can apply immediately. Connect with Matt HowardWebsite: https://www.scomaconstruction.com Instagram: @homeplacedesignbuild Subscribe to the Carolina Business Leadership Show for weekly conversations with entrepreneurs, founders, and business leaders across North and South Carolina who are building stronger businesses, stronger teams, and stronger communities. Matt Howard, SCOMA Construction Services, residential remodeling, remodeling contractor, construction business, entrepreneurship, small business, business leadership, leadership podcast, referral marketing, customer experience, company culture, business systems, Raleigh NC, North Carolina business, Carolina Business Leadership Show

  6. Jul 7

    Leadership in Hospitality: Lessons from Restauranteur Gabriele Grigolon

    How mentorship, resilience, and calculated risks shaped one restaurateur's journey from Italy to the American Dream. What does it take to build a successful restaurant, lead a team through uncertainty, and pursue the American Dream? In this episode of the Carolina Business Leadership Show, Aubrey Fitzloff sits down with Gabriele Grigolon, chef, restaurateur, and owner of Aqua e Vino in Charlotte, North Carolina. Born and trained in Italy, Gabriele shares his journey from European kitchens to restaurant ownership in the United States, along with the leadership lessons he's learned along the way. Together, they discuss mentorship, leading by example, building a culture of ownership, balancing tradition with innovation, and adapting a business during challenging times. Gabriele also shares how dyslexia has influenced his creativity, why strong supplier relationships matter, and how taking calculated risks has shaped both his career and his business. Whether you're a business owner, entrepreneur, hospitality professional, or aspiring leader, this conversation offers practical insights on leadership, resilience, customer experience, and long-term success. Topics include: • Restaurant leadership and hospitality • Entrepreneurship and the American Dream • Mentorship and career growth • Building team accountability • Risk-taking and business growth • Adapting during COVID-19 • Supplier and vendor relationships • Balancing tradition and innovation Connect with Aqua e Vino: Website: www.aquaevino.com Phone: (704) 364-4445 Follow the Carolina Business Leadership Show for conversations with business owners, entrepreneurs, and community leaders across North and South Carolina.

  7. Jun 29

    Sustainable Business Growth: Leadership Lessons from Cristina Hall of Ginger's Revenge

    Why Sustainable Growth Starts with Personal Growth In this episode of the Carolina Business Leadership Show, Aubrey Fitzloff sits down with Cristina Hall Ackley, co-founder of Ginger's Revenge, an award-winning craft ginger beer brewery in Asheville, North Carolina. Cristina shares the entrepreneurial journey behind building a purpose-driven business, leading alongside her husband, and creating sustainable business growth without sacrificing personal well-being. Together, they explore leadership, entrepreneurship, burnout, company culture, and the importance of building a business that aligns with your values. Cristina offers practical insights on growing through uncertainty, investing in personal development, supporting your team, and staying connected to your "why" through every stage of business. Whether you're launching a startup, leading a growing company, or redefining success as an entrepreneur, this conversation is packed with actionable leadership lessons you can apply immediately. In this episode, you'll learn:Why personal growth is essential to business growthHow to build a purpose-driven business that reflects your valuesStrategies for preventing burnout while pursuing sustainable growthLessons from building a business with your spouseHow strong company culture begins with intentional leadershipThe importance of defining—and revisiting—your "why"Creating meaningful partnerships with employees, vendors, and your communityWhy great leaders invest in themselves as much as they invest in their businessesIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another entrepreneur or business leader. Connect with Ginger's Revenge Website: https://gingersrevenge.com Instagram: @gingersrev Facebook: Ginger's Revenge Visit the Taproom: 829 Riverside Drive, Suite 100 Asheville, NC 28801 Connect with the Carolina Business Leadership Show Follow us on Instagram, Threads, LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube: @carolinabusinessleadershipshow Interested in being a guest? 📧 aubrey@ltins.com entrepreneurship, leadership, sustainable business growth, purpose-driven business, Asheville business, burnout, company culture, and small business leadership

  8. Apr 24

    From Military Instructor to Entrepreneur: Michael Woodland’s Headshot Business

    In this episode of the Carolina Business Leadership Show, host Aubrey Fitzloff sits down with Michael Woodland, founder of Essential Headshots, a Columbia, South Carolina-based headshot photographer helping professionals and business owners elevate their personal brand through powerful first impressions. Michael shares how his journey from military service to entrepreneurship began unexpectedly—and how discipline, resilience, and a commitment to mastering his craft helped him build a fast-growing, relationship-driven business in the Carolinas. We talk about what makes a great headshot, why confidence and authenticity matter more than perfection, and how strong visual branding can open doors for entrepreneurs, sales professionals, and business leaders. This conversation also explores the realities of starting a business from scratch, lessons learned from early mistakes, and why community relationships and word-of-mouth referrals continue to drive long-term growth. If you’re a small business owner, entrepreneur, or professional looking to strengthen your personal brand and build trust with your audience, this episode delivers practical insights you can apply immediately. What You’ll LearnHow Michael Woodland built Essential Headshots from the ground upWhy professional headshots matter for personal branding and business growthThe role of discipline and mindset in entrepreneurshipHow to build a business through trust and word-of-mouth referralsCommon mistakes new business owners make when investing in their businessHow authenticity and confidence impact leadership and client relationshipsThe evolving role of AI in photography and personal brandingConnect with Michael WoodlandWebsite: www.essentialheadshots.com Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook: @ESNTLheadshots Phone: 803-237-2536 About the ShowThe Carolina Business Leadership Show features real conversations with business owners and leaders across North and South Carolina, sharing practical insights on growth, leadership, and building relationship-driven businesses. If you found value in this episode, make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss future conversations with business leaders across the Carolinas. Know a business owner who should be on the show? Share this episode with them.

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Conversations with entrepreneurs and executives shaping business across the Carolinas. The Carolina Business Leadership Show brings you real conversations with inspiring entrepreneurs, executives, and business leaders from North and South Carolina. Hosted by the LifeTime Insurance Agency team, who understand the heartbeat of local business, each episode explores how these leaders grow companies, overcome challenges, and lead with purpose. Tune in for actionable lessons and insider perspectives from the Carolinas’ most impactful business minds.

Information

  • Creator
    LifeTime Insurance Agency team
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    36
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 LifeTime Insurance Agency team
  • Show Website
    Carolina Business Leadership Show