Braving Business: Tales of Entrepreneurial Resilience and Courage in the Face of Adversity

Tal J Zlotnitsky
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Braving Business: Tales of Entrepreneurial Resilience and Courage in the Face of Adversity

Join host Tal Zlotnitsky, a seasoned serial entrepreneur and founder of six companies, alongside co-host PJ Benoit, a dedicated entrepreneur in his own right, as they delve into candid conversations with leaders and entrepreneurs about confronting and surmounting adversity. Tune in to hear from our distinguished guests as they share their personal stories of resilience and tenacity. Our aim is to inspire, educate, and empower entrepreneurs and leaders, providing them with useful insights on how to chase their dreams and goals even in the face of hardship, while adhering to their core values and leading a life imbued with purpose and significance.

  1. Breaking Cycles and Building Freedom: Crystal Ball’s Journey from Cult Survivor to Entrepreneur

    3일 전

    Breaking Cycles and Building Freedom: Crystal Ball’s Journey from Cult Survivor to Entrepreneur

    In this unforgettable episode of Braving Business, we meet Crystal Ball, whose life is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and the power of embracing freedom. Raised in poverty and repression within the infamous “Shiny Happy People” cult, Crystal’s childhood was defined by control and fear. But breaking free was only the beginning. Crystal shares her journey through profound loss, including surviving Hurricane Michael, losing both grandparents, and helping her husband recover from a stroke—all in one harrowing year. These challenges, combined with the unexpected catalyst of motherhood, pushed her to leave a 13-year corporate career and accidentally embark on a path of entrepreneurship. Now thriving in Panama City Beach, Crystal combines her passion for real estate and the coastal lifestyle as a successful entrepreneur and Sales Director of a boat club. She’s also preparing to release her autobiography, “Diary of a Cult Girl,” in early 2025, a bold and deeply personal account of breaking generational cycles and reclaiming self-worth. In this episode, Crystal reveals: How her upbringing shaped her drive and why hyper-achievement can be a trauma response.The role of radical honesty and forgiveness in rebuilding her life.The hilarious story of how she offered her ex-husband as part of a real estate deal, which made headlines in the New York Post.What “success” looks like now and how it’s changed over the years.The values she’s instilling in her children to break harmful cycles.Crystal’s story is raw, inspiring, and a powerful reminder that healing, freedom, and purpose are within reach—even in the face of unimaginable challenges. Key Takeaways: “Life is a daring adventure or nothing at all.”—Crystal’s favorite quote by Helen Keller encapsulates her journey of resilience and courage.How counseling, partnerships, and boundaries helped her overcome trauma and rebuild.Why she believes honesty and openness are the keys to resilience in life and business.Connect with Crystal Ball: Facebook: Crystal BallResources Mentioned: Diary of a Cult Girl (coming 2025)New York Post featureEpisode Highlights: [00:03:00] Crystal’s childhood in the “Shiny Happy People” cult and breaking free.[00:10:30] Surviving Hurricane Michael and navigating loss.[00:20:15] The story behind leaving corporate America and her “life-changer baby.”[00:30:45] How she hilariously offered her ex-husband as a bonus in a home sale.[00:40:10] Radical honesty, boundaries, and breaking generational cycles.[00:50:00] Her advice: “If they’re not in the arena, don’t worry about them.”Crystal Ball’s extraordinary journey reminds us that resilience and transformation are possible for everyone. Tune in for an episode filled with courage, humor, and hope!

    45분
  2. Bruce George, Peabody & Tony Award Winning co-founder of Def Poetry Jam on HBO and of Genius is Common

    12월 9일

    Bruce George, Peabody & Tony Award Winning co-founder of Def Poetry Jam on HBO and of Genius is Common

    In this powerful episode of Braving Business, we sit down with the legendary Bruce George, a visionary entrepreneur, award-winning poet, and co-founder of the groundbreaking Def Poetry Jam on HBO. With a career spanning four decades, Bruce has earned accolades such as a Peabody Award and a Tony Award, but his true passion lies in empowering others through his Genius is Common Movement. Bruce’s journey is a masterclass in resilience, creativity, and collaboration. From navigating financial hurdles to aligning with influential partners, he has transformed challenges into steppingstones. Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or simply someone striving to make an impact, Bruce’s story will leave you inspired to embrace your unique genius and push past adversity. In this episode, Bruce shares: The behind-the-scenes story of how Def Poetry Jam became a cultural phenomenon.Why he founded the Genius is Common Movement and how it’s transforming lives by challenging elitist notions of talent.Lessons learned from overcoming financial challenges and aligning with influential collaborators.How poetry and activism have shaped his entrepreneurial journey.A personal quote that has guided him through life’s challenges and how it can inspire you too.Bruce also opens up about his proudest accomplishments, surprising moments from his career, and his ambitious vision for mainstreaming the Genius is Common Movement. If you’ve ever doubted your creative potential or struggled to stay true to your vision, this episode will reignite your belief in what’s possible. Don’t miss this compelling conversation with a cultural trailblazer who proves that genius isn’t rare—it’s common. Key Takeaways: "Up you mighty race, you can accomplish what you will." – How this Frederick Douglass quote shapes Bruce’s perspective on perseverance and purpose.The importance of faith in yourself and in a higher power when facing adversity.Why recognizing your own genius is the first step to unlocking your full potential.Connect with Bruce George: LinkedIn: Bruce GeorgeLearn more about the Genius is Common Movement: geniusiscommon.comResources Mentioned: Def Poetry Jam on HBOGenius is Common Movement website and initiatives.Tune in to hear Bruce George’s poetic wisdom and entrepreneurial grit in action. His story reminds us that true genius lies in recognizing the creativity and worth within ourselves.

    47분
  3. Jeff Gardner, PGA Award-Winning Innovator and Golf Gear Entrepreneur

    12월 2일

    Jeff Gardner, PGA Award-Winning Innovator and Golf Gear Entrepreneur

    In this episode of the Braving Business podcast, we’re joined by Jeff Gardner, a PGA award-winning innovator and entrepreneur in the golf gear industry. Jeff’s journey is one of resilience, creativity, and unyielding determination. From inventing the groundbreaking Alignment Ball Marker to navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, Jeff proves that persistence and passion are the ultimate game-changers. Episode Highlights: Jeff Gardner’s Alignment Ball Marker, a tool designed to help golfers improve their game affordably, earned the title of "Best New Product" at the 2022 PGA Show, sparking both praise and debate among golf purists.His path to success was anything but smooth. Jeff faced obstacles like USGA compliance challenges, trademark disputes, and navigating the complexities of international manufacturing.Jeff shares how his competitive drive, project management skills, and relentless research helped him overcome setbacks and keep moving forward.He recounts pivotal moments in his journey, including days when everything seemed on the verge of collapse and the lessons he learned about resilience and adaptability.Golf’s emphasis on patience and precision shaped Jeff’s entrepreneurial philosophy, influencing how he approaches life and business.Jeff reflects on the transformative moment of seeing his product in action and helping everyday golfers improve their game.A key milestone in Jeff’s journey was winning the "Best New Product" award at the PGA Show, which affirmed his hard work and innovative vision.He gives listeners a sneak peek into his plans for new products, emphasizing the importance of making his current venture a complete success before embarking on the next big idea.Jeff shares his core message: the importance of unwavering dedication to achieving your goals and embracing the challenges along the way.Key Discussion Points: The story behind the Alignment Ball Marker and its impact on the golf world.Navigating legal challenges like trademark disputes and compliance with golf regulations.Lessons learned from working with international manufacturing partners.The role of individual competitiveness and drive in Jeff’s entrepreneurial journey.The transformative power of perseverance and how Jeff stayed motivated during tough times.Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs: "How bad do you want it?"Quotable Moments: "If everybody is somebody, then nobody is anybody.""Never give up until all hope is lost."Connect with Jeff: Instagram: @alignmentballmarkListener Engagement: What inspired you most about Jeff’s story of resilience and innovation? Share your thoughts and let us know how his journey motivates you to pursue your own big ideas at https://bravingbusiness.com/contact-us Disclaimer: The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Braving Business podcast or its hosts. Remember to subscribe, rate, and review us wherever you get your podcasts. Stay brave!

    39분
  4. Jessica Gonzales, Founder of Happen Venture and Global Pioneer on "Beneficial Reuse" of Waste

    11월 25일

    Jessica Gonzales, Founder of Happen Venture and Global Pioneer on "Beneficial Reuse" of Waste

    Join Tal and PJ as they welcome Jessica Gonzales, a Latina powerhouse in resilience, innovation, and entrepreneurship, to the Braving Business Podcast. Jessica's journey is a testament to overcoming adversity, bootstrapping innovation, and redefining sustainability. Episode Highlights: Jessica began her entrepreneurial career by bootstrapping her first company, InCharged, from her parents' house, turning it into a global event technology success, partnering with brands like Google and Coca-Cola. But the pandemic turned her world upside down, leading to the bankruptcy of both her companies. Instead of giving up, Jessica pivoted and launched Lux Disinfect, a disinfection tech company, during COVID-19. This new venture not only thrived but also prepared Jessica for her next chapter. Today, Jessica is the founder of Happen Ventures, where she’s tackling sustainability head-on, focusing on "beneficial reuse" to transform waste into community resources. A single mother and mentor, Jessica’s "nothing is impossible" mantra fuels her relentless drive to make a difference. Key Discussion Points: Bootstrapping InCharged from scratch and landing powerhouse clients like Google and T-Mobile.Navigating the collapse of her companies during COVID and the mindset to pivot quickly.Launching Lux Disinfect and selling it within two years.Exploring the sustainability industry through Happen Ventures and its mission to reduce landfill impact.What "beneficial reuse" means and its transformative potential for communities.Challenges of being a Latina CEO in male-dominated industries.The role of resilience in entrepreneurship and Jessica's belief that "nothing is impossible."Balancing single motherhood with leading high-impact businesses.Vision for expanding Happen Ventures and making a global environmental impact.Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs facing setbacks.Quotable Moments: "Sometimes you sulk, but then you pivot and move on quickly." "Nothing is impossible if you have the will to push through the hard moments." Connect with Jessica: Instagram: @happenventuresLinkedIn: Happen VenturesYouTube: Happen VenturesFacebook: Happen VenturesListener Engagement: What resonated most with you from Jessica’s story of resilience and reinvention? Share your thoughts and stories of overcoming challenges at www.bravingbusiness.com. Disclaimer: The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Braving Business Podcast or its hosts. Remember to subscribe, rate, and review us wherever you get your podcasts. Stay brave!

    41분
  5. Sarah Hurley, Global Brand Creator and Founder of SH Brands Group

    11월 18일

    Sarah Hurley, Global Brand Creator and Founder of SH Brands Group

    Join us in welcoming Sarah Hurley, a self-made entrepreneur, global brand creator, and founder of SH Brands Group and the Sarah Hurley Academy. From starting her business with just £40 to building a multi-million dollar enterprise, Sarah’s journey is one of resilience, determination, and unwavering self-belief. Episode Highlights: Sarah shares her inspiring journey from humble beginnings, growing up in a tower block, overcoming an abusive first marriage, and later, the heartbreak of losing her second husband. Despite these hardships, she transformed her life, building a seven-figure licensing empire that spans over 50 brands and 30 million licensed products sold globally. Key Discussion Points: 1. How Sarah’s tough upbringing instilled a relentless drive for success. 2. The pivotal moment when she risked her last £40 to launch SH Brands. 3. Overcoming personal tragedy and channeling grief into the creation of the Sarah Hurley Academy. 4. The significance of teaching others sustainable business practices and financial independence. 5. Insights on how to stay resilient and adaptable in the face of life’s challenges. 6. Her approach to empowering others to build their own businesses. 7. The importance of authenticity and staying true to oneself in business. 8. Reflections on the power of community support and mentorship. 9. The creative process behind launching over 50 successful brands. 10. Future plans for expanding her business and continuing her mission of uplifting others. Quotable Moments: “Your past doesn’t define you; it fuels your drive.” “You don’t need millions to start a business—just grit, determination, and belief in yourself.” Connect with Sarah: - Instagram: [@Scaryhurley @sarahhurleybrands @sarahhurleyacademy - LinkedIn: [Sarah Hurley](https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahmhurley) - Website: [Sarah Hurley](https://www.sarahhurley.com) Listener Engagement: We’d love to hear your reflections on Sarah’s journey and how her story of resilience and entrepreneurship resonates with your own experiences. Disclaimer: The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Braving Business Podcast or its hosts.

    42분
  6. Bernadette McClelland, "Top 35 Women in Sales", speaker, author of 6 books on sales and leadership

    11월 11일

    Bernadette McClelland, "Top 35 Women in Sales", speaker, author of 6 books on sales and leadership

    Join us as we welcome Bernadette McClelland, ranked one of the Top 35 Women in Sales Globally by Sales Hacker, Tony Robbins collaborator and author of six books on sales and leadership including most recently 'SHIFT and DISRUPT: Stop Selling Widgets. Start Selling Wisdom'. Episode Overview: Bernadette McClelland’s journey is one of resilience, courage, and reinvention. From a successful corporate career with Xerox to a life-altering personal and financial setback, Bernadette’s story is both inspiring and instructive. In this episode, she shares how she turned adversity into an opportunity for growth, becoming an accomplished speaker, author, and coach. We dive into her experiences, including the turning point that led her to embrace “deliberate disruption” as a philosophy, and her mission to guide others through challenges. Key Discussion Points: 1. The courage it took to leave a secure corporate career at Xerox and step into the world of entrepreneurship. 2. How a devastating injury led to financial loss and a complete restart, and what it took to bounce back. 3. Embracing the concept of "deliberate disruption" as a guiding principle for overcoming life's biggest challenges. 4. The lessons learned from trusting the wrong people and finding clarity through difficult times. 5. Insights from working with Tony Robbins and other prominent figures on building resilience. 6. The transformative experience of mentoring incarcerated individuals as they prepare for re-entry. 7. The power of reinvention and staying aligned with your core values through tough times. 8. Bernadette’s latest focus on leadership through her upcoming book, The Rise of The Disruptive Leader. 9. Advice on how to find purpose, even when it feels like everything is falling apart. 10. A lighter look into Bernadette’s love for adventure and the unique travel experiences that have shaped her outlook. Quotable Moments: - “Bouncing back is not enough; sometimes you need to deliberately disrupt to find a new path forward.” - “Courage isn’t the absence of fear; it’s the willingness to move forward despite it.” - “The most powerful transformations happen when we embrace the discomfort of change.” Connect with Bernadette: - Website: [bernadettemcclelland.com](https://bernadettemcclelland.com) - LinkedIn: [Bernadette McClelland](https://www.linkedin.com/in/bernadettemcclelland) Listener Engagement: We’re eager to hear your thoughts on Bernadette’s philosophy of “deliberate disruption” and how it resonates with your own journey. Share your takeaways and stories of courage in the comments! Disclaimer: The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Braving Business Podcast or its hosts. Remember to subscribe, rate, and review us wherever you get your podcasts. Stay brave!

    47분
  7. Adam Kroener, Founder of Carbliss, the #1 Fastest Growing Low-Carb Brand of Premium Ready to Drink Hand Crafted Cocktails

    11월 4일

    Adam Kroener, Founder of Carbliss, the #1 Fastest Growing Low-Carb Brand of Premium Ready to Drink Hand Crafted Cocktails

    Join us on the Braving Business Podcast as we sit down with Adam Kroener, the co-founder of Carbliss, a trailblazer in the low-carb beverage industry. Adam's journey is filled with resilience, starting with his early days as a teenage father and Army veteran, to building Carbliss alongside his wife, Amanda. Named in honor of a close friend, Carbliss has achieved tremendous growth, earning the title of #1 Fastest Growing Company by Inc Regionals Midwest. Adam's story is one of vision, grit, and staying true to one’s values, all while navigating the competitive beverage market. Key Discussion Points: 1. Adam's early life, from teenage fatherhood to his time in the Army, and the lessons that shaped his entrepreneurial spirit. 2. The inspiration behind Carbliss and Adam's motivation to address a personal need in a crowded market. 3. Insights on identifying market gaps and the importance of solving problems that resonate personally. 4. Overcoming doubts and setbacks in the initial days of Carbliss, and Adam’s approach to handling uncertainty. 5. Resilience and perseverance in business, with Adam's advice on enduring the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. 6. The role of values in scaling a business, and how Adam has stayed grounded as Carbliss has grown. 7. Balancing the demands of business, health, and personal life as an entrepreneur. 8. Tips for turning a personal passion into a thriving business and bringing ideas to market. 9. Adam’s journey of building Carbliss with his wife, Amanda, and the dynamics of a husband-and-wife team. 10. Adam’s dedication to supporting veterans and troubled youth, and how his personal mission aligns with his business goals. Quotable Moments: "Resilience is about not sprinting but finding a sustainable pace for the long haul." "The best ideas are the ones that come from personal passion and real-life problems." Connect with Adam: - Instagram: [@therealadamkroener](https://www.instagram.com/therealadamkroener/) - LinkedIn: [Adam Kroener](https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-kroener-not-a-seltzer-beverage-ready-to-drink-cocktail/) - Carbliss Instagram: [@drinkcarbliss](https://www.instagram.com/drinkcarbliss/) - Carbliss Facebook: [Drink Carbliss](https://www.facebook.com/drinkcarbliss) Listener Engagement: What parts of Adam's journey resonate with you? Share your own experiences of resilience and growth, and let us know how his story inspires your entrepreneurial path. Disclaimer: The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Braving Business Podcast or its hosts. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review us wherever you get your podcasts. Stay brave!

    51분
  8. Joe Huss, Founder of Supply Chain BEST and personal development thought leader

    10월 28일

    Joe Huss, Founder of Supply Chain BEST and personal development thought leader

    Join us on the Braving Business Podcast as we welcome Joe Huss, a seasoned entrepreneur and founder of Supply Chain BEST, with a career spanning over 25 years in global business development, product manufacturing, and supply chain management. Joe’s journey from his entrepreneurial family roots to launching his own ventures in North America and Asia is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to personal growth. His story speaks to the power of perseverance and the importance of surrounding oneself with the right people. Key Points: 1. Impact of Early Experiences Growing up in an entrepreneurial family, Joe witnessed both the triumphs and struggles of running a business. 2. Facing Major Challenges from a Young Age At just 18 months old, Joe underwent heart surgery, a life event that drained his family’s resources and led to significant sacrifices. Joe reflects on how this shaped his sense of responsibility. 3. Early Influences and Passion for Self-Improvement Joe’s introduction to personal development began as a teenager, setting the foundation for a lifetime of growth. His love for books like How to Win Friends and Influence People continues to guide his mindset. 4. Starting Over in a Foreign Country Joe took the leap to Asia as a young entrepreneur with no safety net. He discusses the challenges and cultural insights gained from building a business far from home. 5. Lessons Learned from Adversity and Loss Joe shares profound lessons learned from significant life events, including twice finding himself "homeless" and the resilience he developed to persevere through setbacks. 6. The Importance of Partnership Through his journey, Joe highlights the qualities he seeks in partners, emphasizing the value of mutual trust and complementary strengths as key to long-term success. 7. Growth through Self-Reflection In his career, Joe identified that personal growth is just as important as professional skills. He shares his journey of self-discovery and the importance of honesty in facing personal weaknesses. 8. Fostering a Collaborative Business Culture Joe discusses how building a strong company culture around trust and shared goals has become a cornerstone of his leadership approach, particularly in his work at Supply Chain BEST. 9. Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs With decades of experience, Joe advises emerging entrepreneurs on overcoming self-doubt and finding resilience, especially when starting out. 10. Joe’s Vision for Supply Chain BEST and Future Goals Looking ahead, Joe shares his plans for expanding partnerships and deepening collaborative relationships to drive business growth. Quotable Moments: - "I’ve learned that a company’s culture is a shadow of its leadership. The people you surround yourself with are a reflection of your heart." - "The path to excellence begins with brutal honesty with oneself and the courage to tackle personal challenges head-on." Connect with Joe Huss: - LinkedIn: [Joe Huss](https://www.linkedin.com) Listener Engagement: We’d love to hear your thoughts on Joe’s journey! Disclaimer: The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent those of the Braving Business Podcast or its hosts. Be sure to subscribe, rate, and review the Braving Business Podcast wherever you listen. Stay brave!

    52분
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Join host Tal Zlotnitsky, a seasoned serial entrepreneur and founder of six companies, alongside co-host PJ Benoit, a dedicated entrepreneur in his own right, as they delve into candid conversations with leaders and entrepreneurs about confronting and surmounting adversity. Tune in to hear from our distinguished guests as they share their personal stories of resilience and tenacity. Our aim is to inspire, educate, and empower entrepreneurs and leaders, providing them with useful insights on how to chase their dreams and goals even in the face of hardship, while adhering to their core values and leading a life imbued with purpose and significance.

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