Entrepreneurs, Executives, and Eccentrics

Scott Turman
  • 4.2 (5)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
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Entrepreneurs, Executives, and Eccentrics is a podcast that explores the world of business through in-depth interviews with a diverse range of guests, hosted by Scott Turman. From a visionary entrepreneur who has turned dreams into a successful venture, to accomplished executives shaping industries, and eccentric personalities with unique approaches to business and life, Scott navigates through their stories with a blend of curiosity and expertise. https://eeae.co/

  1. Matthew Shollar on Transcend Cruises and a New Model for Purpose Driven Travel

    3D AGO

    Matthew Shollar on Transcend Cruises and a New Model for Purpose Driven Travel

    In this conversation, Matthew Shollar, founder of Transcend Cruises, discusses the innovative concept of a B2B cruise line that focuses on providing customized experiences for private groups rather than individual consumers. He explains the challenges faced in the traditional cruise industry and how his company addresses these issues through unique ship designs, branding opportunities, and a focus on client needs. The discussion also covers the current operations, future plans for new ships, and the overall business model that sets Transcend Cruises apart from competitors. Takeaways Transcend Cruises is the world’s first entirely B2B cruise line.The company focuses on private group departures, not individual sales.Customization and branding are key elements of the cruise experience.The ships are designed to accommodate various group needs and preferences.Transcend Cruises aims to simplify the charter process for clients.The company is building new ships tailored for group experiences.Sustainability and wellness are integral to the cruise offerings.The business model allows for higher margins compared to traditional cruise lines.Transcend Cruises operates internationally, catering to diverse markets.The future vision includes expanding the fleet and enhancing client experiences. Today’s guest, Matthew Shollar, can be found online at:Website: https://transcendcruises.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-shollar-930925/ Your host, Scott Turman, can be found online at:BrightRay Publishing: https://brightray.com/Entrepreneur Website: https://scottturman.com/⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottturman/⁠ KeywordsTranscend Cruises, B2B cruise line, luxury travel, river cruising, branding, custom experiences, travel industry, innovative ship design, corporate events, travel agencies

    31 min
  2. Tyler Rachal on Building Hireframe by Referral, Then Crossing the Marketing Chasm

    JAN 26

    Tyler Rachal on Building Hireframe by Referral, Then Crossing the Marketing Chasm

    In this conversation, Tyler Rachal, co-founder of Hireframe, discusses the evolution of remote staffing, particularly in the context of nearshoring to Mexico and the Philippines. He shares insights from his experience in outsourcing, the challenges of navigating business in these countries, and the founding story of Hireframe. The discussion also touches on the importance of flexibility in staffing, the impact of AI on remote work, and the changing landscape of global hiring. Rachal emphasizes the need for authenticity in content creation and the influence of platforms like Amazon in the publishing industry. Takeaways Hireframe specializes in remote staffing for B2B tech companies.Nearshoring has gained traction, especially post-COVID.Understanding local laws and customs is crucial for successful outsourcing.The 13th month bonus is a common expectation in Mexico and the Philippines.Building a network in target countries can mitigate risks in outsourcing.Flexibility in staffing is essential for startups and growing companies.AI is transforming the way talent is utilized in remote work.Companies are increasingly building globally from the outset.Authenticity in content creation is becoming more valuable.Amazon plays a significant role in the publishing industry, but there are alternatives. Today's guest, Tyler Rachal, can be found online at: Website: https://www.hireframe.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerrachal/ Your host, Scott Turman, can be found online at: BrightRay Publishing: ⁠https://brightray.com/⁠⁠⁠ Entrepreneur Website: ⁠https://scottturman.com/⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottturman/⁠ Keywords remote staffing, nearshoring, outsourcing, AI in business, global hiring, Hireframe, B2B tech, talent acquisition, business growth, entrepreneurship

    34 min
  3. How Laura Patterson Built VisionEdge Marketing on Data, Curiosity, and Customer-Centric Growth

    JAN 12

    How Laura Patterson Built VisionEdge Marketing on Data, Curiosity, and Customer-Centric Growth

    In this conversation, Laura Patterson, founder and president of VisionEdge Marketing, discusses the evolution of growth strategy consulting over the past 25 years, emphasizing the importance of data insights and customer centricity. She shares her journey in establishing her firm, the transition to remote work, and the significance of understanding customer success. The discussion also touches on the challenges of marketing attribution and the impact of AI on the industry, concluding with advice for the next generation regarding career opportunities in emerging fields. Takeaways Data insights are crucial for making informed decisions.Curiosity about customers leads to better marketing strategies.Balancing customer value and business value is essential.Remote work can enhance operational efficiency.Identifying the right client is key to business success.Onboarding processes should be systematic and data-driven.Understanding customer success metrics is vital for growth.Marketing attribution remains a complex challenge.AI is a tool that requires skill to leverage effectively.Emerging industries like AI present significant career opportunities. Today's guest, Laura Patterson, can be found online at: Personal Website: https://laurapatterson.co/ Website: https://visionedgemarketing.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurapattersonvem/ https://www.youtube.com/@VisionEdgeMarketing Your host, Scott Turman, can be found online at: BrightRay Publishing: ⁠https://brightray.com/⁠⁠⁠ Entrepreneur Website: ⁠https://scottturman.com/⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottturman/⁠ Keywords growth strategy, marketing, data insights, customer centricity, remote work, client onboarding, marketing attribution, AI in marketing, business growth, customer success

    38 min
  4. Barry Davis on Emotional Intelligence, Team Culture, and the Leadership Side of Coaching

    12/29/2025

    Barry Davis on Emotional Intelligence, Team Culture, and the Leadership Side of Coaching

    In this conversation, Coach Barry Davis shares his extensive experience in coaching, discussing the evolution of his career, the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership, and the nuances of recruiting talent. He emphasizes the significance of character over mere athletic ability and offers insights into his book, 'Old Dog, New Tricks,' which explores the journey of a coach learning to manage emotions and build effective teams. Takeaways Coaching is a leadership position focused on developing people.Character is more important than talent in recruiting.Emotional intelligence is crucial for effective coaching.Building a team requires understanding individual motivations.Reflection on daily practices can lead to improvement.Mentorship and guidance are key in coaching roles.Creating a safe environment fosters team cohesion.Asking for input empowers team members.Leadership shapes the culture of an organization.Success takes time and consistent effort. Today's guest, Barry Davis, can be found online at: Website: https://drbarrydavis.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbarrydavis42/ Your host, Scott Turman, can be found online at: BrightRay Publishing: ⁠https://brightray.com/⁠⁠⁠ Entrepreneur Website: ⁠https://scottturman.com/⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottturman/⁠ Keywords coaching, emotional intelligence, recruiting, leadership, baseball, mentorship, team building, character development, sports, personal growth

    34 min
  5. How Sean Rowe Turned a Struggling Pizzeria into a Community Staple Through Persistence

    12/15/2025

    How Sean Rowe Turned a Struggling Pizzeria into a Community Staple Through Persistence

    In this conversation, Sean Rowe, founder of St. Angelo's Pizza, shares his journey from a software professional to a successful restaurateur. He discusses the origins of his family’s pizza business, the challenges he faced in the early years, and how he reinvented the menu and business model to adapt to changing circumstances, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Sean emphasizes the importance of mentorship, learning from mistakes, and the realities of running a restaurant, while also reflecting on the evolving landscape of the food industry. Takeaways Sean Rowe is the founder of St. Angelo's Pizza in Atlanta, Georgia.The restaurant's name has a family history dating back to his great uncle.Sean faced significant challenges when he first entered the pizza business.He learned the importance of fixing the food as a foundational principle.COVID-19 forced him to adapt his business model to focus on delivery and carryout.Mentorship is crucial for success in entrepreneurship.The restaurant industry is not for everyone; it requires dedication and hard work.Sean emphasizes the importance of community engagement in his business.He has learned to streamline operations to improve efficiency.The journey of entrepreneurship is often winding and filled with lessons. Today's guest, Sean Rowe, can be found online at: Website: https://www.stangelos.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-rowe-4334a23/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stangelosvinings Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/stangelos_vinings/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stangelos_lakepoint/ Your host, Scott Turman, can be found online at: BrightRay Publishing: ⁠https://brightray.com/⁠⁠⁠ Entrepreneur Website: ⁠https://scottturman.com/⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottturman/⁠ Keywords St. Angelo's Pizza, entrepreneurship, restaurant business, COVID-19, menu innovation, business challenges, pizza industry, small business, community engagement, mentorship

    22 min
  6. From global roots to Houston: Andrejka Bernatova on risk, grit, and energy leadership

    12/01/2025

    From global roots to Houston: Andrejka Bernatova on risk, grit, and energy leadership

    In this conversation, Andrejka Bernatova shares her journey from a political science major to a successful investor in energy infrastructure and digital assets. She discusses her experiences in the finance sector, the importance of cultural adaptability, and the entrepreneurial spirit she found in Houston's energy community. Andrejka also delves into the complexities of SPACs, the challenges of valuation in public markets, and the future demand for energy driven by AI and digital assets. Throughout the discussion, she emphasizes the significance of resilience, grit, and surrounding oneself with good people in both personal and professional life. Takeaways Andrejka transitioned from political science to finance and energy.She emphasizes the importance of taking risks in life.Cultural adaptability has been crucial in her career.The Houston energy community is welcoming and supportive.Grit and resilience are key to success in business.SPACs can be risky and should not be used as a last resort.Valuation challenges can hinder capital raising efforts.Energy demand is increasing due to AI and digital assets.Surrounding oneself with good people is essential for success.Understanding the energy sector is critical for future investments.Today's guest, Andrejka Bernatova, can be found online at: Website: https://www.dynamix-corp.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrejka-bernatova-85037013/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/Bernatova Your host, Scott Turman, can be found online at: BrightRay Publishing: ⁠https://brightray.com/⁠⁠⁠ Entrepreneur Website: ⁠https://scottturman.com/⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottturman/⁠ Keywords Andrejka Bernatova, energy infrastructure, SPACs, entrepreneurship, investment, Houston, digital assets, AI, resilience, valuation

    35 min
  7. From Nuclear Physics to Climate Equity: Praveen Sahay on Funding Sustainable Innovation

    11/17/2025

    From Nuclear Physics to Climate Equity: Praveen Sahay on Funding Sustainable Innovation

    In this conversation, Praveen Sahay, founder of Wave Equity Partners, discusses his journey in investing in climate solutions, focusing on deep tech innovations that address critical issues in energy, food, and water. He emphasizes the importance of sustainable investments that do not rely on government subsidies and shares insights on innovative approaches to carbon capture and energy generation. Praveen also reflects on his unique career path from a nuclear physicist to a venture capitalist, highlighting the significance of creativity and purpose in driving innovation. Takeaways Investing in climate solutions requires a deep understanding of interconnected sectors.Sustainable solutions must be economically viable without government subsidies.Innovation is essential for transforming industries and creating value.The energy sector's reliance on government funding can distort market dynamics.Carbon capture technology can significantly reduce emissions and costs.Clean energy generation can be achieved using alternative fuels like water and ethanol.Entrepreneurship is a mindset that transcends industry boundaries.Life's opportunities should be embraced without fear of the unknown.Purpose in life can stem from love and creativity.Engaging with passionate entrepreneurs is a rewarding experience. Today's guest, Praveen Sahay, can be found online at: Profile: https://waveep.com/our-firm/team/praveen-sahay/ Website: https://waveep.com/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/psahay Your host, Scott Turman, can be found online at: BrightRay Publishing: ⁠https://brightray.com/⁠⁠⁠ Entrepreneur Website: ⁠https://scottturman.com/⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottturman/⁠ Keywords climate solutions, venture capital, carbon capture, energy generation, sustainable investments, innovation, clean technology, environmental impact, entrepreneurship, deep tech

    31 min
  8. Alexander Hejazi on Growing Placement, the Startup Born From BallBox and Bold Pivots

    11/03/2025

    Alexander Hejazi on Growing Placement, the Startup Born From BallBox and Bold Pivots

    In this conversation, Alex Hejazi, founder and CEO of Placement, shares his journey from finance to the kiosk industry, detailing the evolution of his business through various pivots, especially during the pandemic. He discusses the challenges and successes of launching a startup, the importance of adaptability, and the lessons learned along the way. The conversation highlights the innovative approach of Placement in the unattended retail space and the future potential of kiosk technology. Takeaways Alex Hejazi transitioned from finance to the kiosk industry.Placement started as a rental service for sports and leisure equipment.The pandemic forced a pivot to package management solutions.The company evolved from hardware to a software-focused model.First dollar earned came from a proof of concept at the beach.Hiring a co-founder was a pivotal moment for the business.Entrepreneurs should consider maintaining supplemental income initially.Pivots are essential for adapting to market changes.The kiosk industry is evolving towards unattended retail solutions.Placement aims to maximize asset utilization for brands. Today's guest, Alexander Hejazi, can be found online at: Website: https://findplacement.io/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexhejazi/ Your host, Scott Turman, can be found online at: BrightRay Publishing: ⁠https://brightray.com/⁠⁠⁠ Entrepreneur Website: ⁠https://scottturman.com/⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottturman/⁠ Keywords Placement, kiosks, unattended retail, entrepreneurship, business pivot, startup journey, technology, package management, distribution, innovation

    26 min
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4.2
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Entrepreneurs, Executives, and Eccentrics is a podcast that explores the world of business through in-depth interviews with a diverse range of guests, hosted by Scott Turman. From a visionary entrepreneur who has turned dreams into a successful venture, to accomplished executives shaping industries, and eccentric personalities with unique approaches to business and life, Scott navigates through their stories with a blend of curiosity and expertise. https://eeae.co/

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