From The Ground Up Show - Entrepreneur and Leadership Success Stories from Blue Collar, and Unconventional Career Paths

From The Ground Up Show with Erick Loden
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From The Ground Up Show is where the next generation of free-thinking leaders come to be inspired. Host Erick Loden sits down with the men and women who’ve built success with their hands, their hustle, and their heart — from tradespeople and entrepreneurs to self-starters and service members we sit down with those who have rejected the traditional career path and chosen to blaze their own path. Through raw, honest conversations and real listener questions, we uncover the lessons, mindset, and grit it takes to build something that lasts - from the ground up. 

  1. Faith Hamlin | Little Jennie Ranch - Raised Different — Entrepreneurship, Wyoming & Choosing an Uncommon Path

    6d ago

    Faith Hamlin | Little Jennie Ranch - Raised Different — Entrepreneurship, Wyoming & Choosing an Uncommon Path

    Faith Hamlin didn’t stumble into a new life… she chose it. What started as a “planned midlife crisis” — a temporary move to Wyoming — turned into something much bigger. In this episode of From The Ground Up Show, Faith shares how stepping outside the expected path led her to a life built on grit, independence, and an entrepreneurial mindset shaped from a young age. We dive into what it really means to take a leap without having everything figured out, how your upbringing quietly influences your decisions, and why the “safe” path isn’t always the right one. This conversation is a powerful reminder that sometimes the biggest changes come from simply giving yourself permission to try something different. If you’ve ever felt the pull to change direction, build something of your own, or live more intentionally—this episode will hit home. #FromTheGroundUpShow #Entrepreneurship #EntrepreneurMindset #UncommonPath #WyomingLife #BuiltNotGiven #LifeOnYourTerms https://shop.fromthegroundupshow.com/   Sponsor Links: https://www.macarthurco.com https://athletefresh.shop/fromthegroundupshow   Connect with From The Ground Up Show:  https://fromthegroundupshow.com https://www.youtube.com/@FromTheGroundUp-k9p https://www.facebook.com/fromthegroundupshow https://www.instagram.com/fromthegroundupshow/ https://www.tiktok.com/@fromthegroundupshow https://x.com/FTGUshow   Watch the video show on YouTube: https://youtu.be/rpAOnQhjb5w   Appear on the Show as an expert guest or ask a question of Erick and one of his guests:  https://fromthegroundupshow.com   Guest Links: https://www.facebook.com/littlejennieranch/ https://www.instagram.com/littlejennieranch/ https://thelittlejennieranch.com/ info@thelittlejennieranch.com 307-733-1044 https://thewyldlifefund.org/home/

    1h 28m
  2. Mike Wandler - From Shop Floor to the Future of Energy | AI, Microreactors & Building the Biggest Machines on Earth

    May 26

    Mike Wandler - From Shop Floor to the Future of Energy | AI, Microreactors & Building the Biggest Machines on Earth

    What does it take to go from working on the shop floor… to helping shape the future of energy and heavy industry? In this episode of From The Ground Up Show, we sit down with Mike Wandler to talk about building a career in the real world—starting in hands-on, blue-collar work and evolving into cutting-edge conversations around AI, industrial innovation, and next-generation energy solutions like microreactors. This is a raw, practical conversation about what’s actually happening inside heavy industry right now—and where it’s heading. We break down: How working with massive equipment shapes problem-solving and leadership The real-world impact of AI in construction, manufacturing, and industrial operations Why microreactors and decentralized energy could change everything The mindset required to grow from tradesman to innovator What the future of American manufacturing and energy really looks like If you're in construction, skilled trades, manufacturing, or energy—or you just care about building things that matter—this episode delivers real insight from someone in the arena. Topics covered: AI in construction, future of energy, microreactors, heavy equipment, manufacturing, blue-collar careers, industrial innovation, leadership, entrepreneurship 🎧 Listen now and learn what it really takes to build from the ground up. #FromTheGroundUp #Podcast #BusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #BlueCollar #SkilledTrades #Construction #Manufacturing #HeavyEquipment #Energy #FutureOfEnergy #Microreactors #NuclearEnergy #AI #ArtificialIntelligence #Innovation #Industrial #AmericanMade #WorkEthic #BuildInPublic     https://shop.fromthegroundupshow.com/   Sponsor Links: https://www.macarthurco.com https://athletefresh.shop/fromthegroundupshow   Connect with From The Ground Up Show:  https://fromthegroundupshow.com https://www.youtube.com/@FromTheGroundUp-k9p https://www.facebook.com/fromthegroundupshow https://www.instagram.com/fromthegroundupshow/ https://www.tiktok.com/@fromthegroundupshow https://x.com/FTGUshow   Watch the video show on YouTube: https://youtu.be/C0le-Rk6obI   Appear on the Show as an expert guest or ask a question of Erick and one of his guests:  https://fromthegroundupshow.com   Guest Links: YODA chatbot - https://chatgpt.com/g/g-67f574e43c50819183f644087a62ae1d-honestly-better-mental-fitness-yoda - also found on Honestly Better website under tools. Innovate Energy –  https://www.amazon.com/Innovate-Energy-Microreactor-Revolution-Truth-American-ebook/dp/B0FH5WQNZN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3VLMU7HYB5NG2&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.yIyW6oH_ZI7e0_JYjmSNgkXSsLpZ-U8UQxXH_MygMPumPANeLqvyGRIID1Cckm7GG5-dTHm3Uq8T1p61X5U2R--a27bolcodhds1tjkS-QnsOgtnoVa53H7E3pzfQaFbDeKHCSSLL8LuTIoI3VR3uO1lsqxrmHZfUQwnr6K7xRXeI4TzbwvU0TBpzEvrJMxwdcJmDjdx7hKyCQghfI_hwIDjYTpTxFPOTCtn5GwbOw_D8n-cZZ7USERG03AT09aPqIMxeQIvdXm3J_bi9kInAYAdmGrKbUqD1I3KiSNIQB0.C-QMD9mNOUYFLLywddmTe8yhiMcMpl7L0nBrhXhMZ38&dib_tag=se&keywords=innovate+energy&qid=1776367094&sprefix=innovate+energ%2Caps%2C242&sr=8-1   Know Thyself Love Thyself – https://www.amazon.com/Innovate-Energy-Microreactor-Revolution-Truth-American-ebook/dp/B0FH5WQNZN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3VLMU7HYB5NG2&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.yIyW6oH_ZI7e0_JYjmSNgkXSsLpZ-U8UQxXH_MygMPumPANeLqvyGRIID1Cckm7GG5-dTHm3Uq8T1p61X5U2R--a27bolcodhds1tjkS-QnsOgtnoVa53H7E3pzfQaFbDeKHCSSLL8LuTIoI3VR3uO1lsqxrmHZfUQwnr6K7xRXeI4TzbwvU0TBpzEvrJMxwdcJmDjdx7hKyCQghfI_hwIDjYTpTxFPOTCtn5GwbOw_D8n-cZZ7USERG03AT09aPqIMxeQIvdXm3J_bi9kInAYAdmGrKbUqD1I3KiSNIQB0.C-QMD9mNOUYFLLywddmTe8yhiMcMpl7L0nBrhXhMZ38&dib_tag=se&keywords=innovate+energy&qid=1776367094&sprefix=innovate+energ%2Caps%2C242&sr=8-1   L&H website – https://www.lnh.net/ Evercore Energy website – https://www.evercore-energy.com/ Wyoming’s Innovative Entrepreneurs website - https://innovatewy.com/ Honestly Better Mental Fitness website - https://www.honestlybetterfitness.com/

    2h 5m
  3. Steve Van Buskirk - From Dirt to 6,600 Lots: Building a City From the Ground Up

    May 19

    Steve Van Buskirk - From Dirt to 6,600 Lots: Building a City From the Ground Up

    Steve Van Buskirk has spent decades developing land, shaping neighborhoods, and helping turn Sioux Falls into one of the fastest-growing cities in the country. With over 6,600 lots and 100+ developments to his name, his work isn’t just measured in projects—it’s measured in impact. In this conversation, we break down what it really takes to build at scale—from raw dirt to fully developed communities. No hype. No shortcuts. Just the long game. We get into: What land development actually looks like behind the scenes The mindset required to manage massive, multi-year projects Lessons from second-generation leadership in a family business Why patience and consistency beat chasing fast growth The unseen risks most people never think about How real builders think about legacy This episode is for anyone in the trades, construction, real estate, or business who wants a real look at what it takes to build something that lasts. If you’ve ever thought about going bigger—this is the blueprint most people never get to see. 🎧 Listen now and learn what it takes to build from the ground up. #FromTheGroundUp #LandDevelopment #RealEstateDevelopment #ConstructionBusiness #Entrepreneurship #BusinessPodcast #TradesLife #BuiltNotGiven #Leadership #SmallBusiness   https://shop.fromthegroundupshow.com/   Sponsor Links: https://www.macarthurco.com https://athletefresh.shop/fromthegroundupshow   Connect with From The Ground Up Show:  https://fromthegroundupshow.com https://www.youtube.com/@FromTheGroundUp-k9p https://www.facebook.com/fromthegroundupshow https://www.instagram.com/fromthegroundupshow/ https://www.tiktok.com/@fromthegroundupshow https://x.com/FTGUshow   Watch the video show on YouTube: https://youtu.be/308wfQR9pqQ   Appear on the Show as an expert guest or ask a question of Erick and one of his guests:  https://fromthegroundupshow.com   Guest Links: https://vanbuskirkco.com/

    1h 18m
  4. Attila Zold - From Romania to Reinvention: Built From Nothing—Multiple Times

    May 12

    Attila Zold - From Romania to Reinvention: Built From Nothing—Multiple Times

    What does it really take to start over… when you have nothing? In this episode of From The Ground Up Show, Attila Zold shares a story that most people will never fully understand—growing up in Romania under government control, coming to the United States, and rebuilding his life from scratch… more than once. No shortcuts. No safety net. Just grit. From working in oil & gas to grinding it out in the roofing industry, Attila breaks down what it actually looks like to earn your way forward in a world where nothing is guaranteed. This isn’t theory—it’s lived experience. We get into: What growing up without real freedom teaches you The mindset required to start over (again and again) Why most people fail when things get hard—and how to push through The reality of building a life and business from the ground up What “opportunity” really looks like when you’ve seen the alternative If you’ve ever felt stuck, burned out, or unsure about your next move—this episode will reset your perspective. If this episode hits for you: Follow From The Ground Up Show so you don’t miss the next one Share this with someone who needs a push right now Drop a 5-star review—it’s the fastest way to help us grow and keep bringing you real conversations like this #FromTheGroundUp #Entrepreneurship #Grit #Resilience #StartFromNothing #BlueCollar #Mindset #AmericanDream #BusinessPodcast #SelfMade #HardWorkPaysOff #Leadership #Motivation #RealTalk #PodcastGrowth   https://shop.fromthegroundupshow.com/   Sponsor Links: https://www.macarthurco.com https://athletefresh.shop/fromthegroundupshow   Connect with From The Ground Up Show:  https://fromthegroundupshow.com https://www.youtube.com/@FromTheGroundUp-k9p https://www.facebook.com/fromthegroundupshow https://www.instagram.com/fromthegroundupshow/ https://www.tiktok.com/@fromthegroundupshow https://x.com/FTGUshow   Watch the video show on YouTube: https://youtu.be/wtp6MAba328   Appear on the Show as an expert guest or ask a question of Erick and one of his guests:  https://fromthegroundupshow.com

    1h 16m
  5. Rob and Heather Macklin - From Blue Collar to Buyout: The Legal Playbook Nobody in the Trades Talks About

    May 5

    Rob and Heather Macklin - From Blue Collar to Buyout: The Legal Playbook Nobody in the Trades Talks About

    Most business owners in the trades know how to build—but far fewer know how to protect what they’ve built or cash out the right way. In this episode of From The Ground Up Show, we dive into the legal and strategic side of business ownership that too many entrepreneurs ignore until it’s too late. From airtight contracts and smart structuring to avoiding costly mistakes during a sale, this conversation breaks down what it really takes to secure your business, your income, and your future. Whether you’re years away from selling or just getting started, the truth is simple: If you don’t have a plan to protect it, you don’t really own it. You’ll learn: How to protect your business from lawsuits, bad deals, and hidden risks The most common mistakes owners make when preparing to sell How to structure your company so you keep more of what you earn What serious buyers look for—and how to position yourself to win Why your exit strategy should start long before you plan to exit This episode is for contractors, tradesmen, and business owners who want more than just income—they want security, leverage, and a real payday at the end of the road. 🎙️ If you’re building something valuable, this is how you make sure you don’t lose it. #FromTheGroundUpShow #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #BusinessOwners #Contractors #Tradesmen #AssetProtection #ExitStrategy #BusinessGrowth #WealthBuilding https://shop.fromthegroundupshow.com/   Sponsor Links: https://www.macarthurco.com https://athletefresh.shop/fromthegroundupshow     Connect with From The Ground Up Show:  https://fromthegroundupshow.com https://www.youtube.com/@FromTheGroundUp-k9p https://www.facebook.com/fromthegroundupshow https://www.instagram.com/fromthegroundupshow/ https://www.tiktok.com/@fromthegroundupshow https://x.com/FTGUshow   Watch the video show on YouTube: https://youtu.be/pfmsMQBiYTw   Appear on the Show as an expert guest or ask a question of Erick and one of his guests:  https://fromthegroundupshow.com   Guest Links: https://www.macklinlawllc.com/ rmacklin@macklinlawllc.com HMacklin@macklinlawllc.com

    1h 51m
  6. Ricardo Torres - From Military Discipline to Multi-Business Domination - Why Most People Stay Stuck (And How to Break Out)

    Apr 28

    Ricardo Torres - From Military Discipline to Multi-Business Domination - Why Most People Stay Stuck (And How to Break Out)

    In this episode of From The Ground Up Show, we sit down with Ricardo Torres to break down what it really takes to transition from military discipline into building multiple income streams and scalable businesses. This conversation goes beyond surface-level entrepreneurship talk. We dive into the mindset required to pivot, adapt, and execute at a high level—whether you’re in the military, corporate America, or already building your own ventures. Ricardo shares how to leverage discipline as a competitive advantage, why most people stay stuck, and how to build real momentum without burning out. From real estate to business ownership, this episode is a blueprint for anyone serious about creating long-term wealth and freedom. If you're looking to sharpen your thinking, expand your income, and operate at a higher level—this one is for you. 🎧 Tune in and start building—from the ground up. #FromTheGroundUp #Entrepreneurship #BusinessPodcast #WealthBuilding #MindsetMatters #LeadershipDevelopment #RealEstateInvesting #MultipleIncomeStreams #FinancialFreedom #SuccessHabits #Discipline #LevelUp #EntrepreneurLife #GrowthMindset #PodcastRecommendations   https://shop.fromthegroundupshow.com/   Sponsor Links: https://www.macarthurco.com https://athletefresh.shop/fromthegroundupshow   Connect with From The Ground Up Show:  https://fromthegroundupshow.com https://www.youtube.com/@FromTheGroundUp-k9p https://www.facebook.com/fromthegroundupshow https://www.instagram.com/fromthegroundupshow/ https://www.tiktok.com/@fromthegroundupshow https://x.com/FTGUshow   Watch the video show on YouTube: https://youtu.be/riBBnsPndEE   Appear on the Show as an expert guest or ask a question of Erick and one of his guests:  https://fromthegroundupshow.com   Guest Links: https://tiffanycouturecleaners.com/ https://thecarpetmonkeys.com/ https://www.vectoredequity.com/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/480525272960581/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricardo-torres-146103212/ https://www.facebook.com/randat330/

    1h 15m
  7. Dr. Alicia Newsome - The Hidden Cost of Hustle - How You Can Win at Work Without Losing at Home

    Apr 21

    Dr. Alicia Newsome - The Hidden Cost of Hustle - How You Can Win at Work Without Losing at Home

    What if the very thing driving your success… is quietly burning you out? In this episode of From The Ground Up Show, Dr. Alicia Newsome breaks down the hidden cost of high performance—and why so many driven, successful people are running on empty behind the scenes. We’ve been sold the idea that more hustle, more hours, and more pressure lead to better results. But what happens when that mindset starts costing you your health, your relationships, and your ability to actually enjoy the life you’re building? This conversation gets real about what burnout actually looks like, why it happens to high performers, and how to build a life where you don’t have to sacrifice everything just to win. If you’re pushing hard, building something meaningful, and feeling the weight of it… this episode will hit home. In this episode, we cover: • The truth about burnout (and why it’s not a weakness) • Why high performers are especially at risk • The hidden trade-offs of constant pressure • How to sustain peak performance without running yourself into the ground • Practical ways to protect your energy, focus, and relationships No fluff. No shortcuts. Just real insight for people building from the ground up. 🎧 Listen now and start building success that actually lasts. #FromTheGroundUp #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #HighPerformance #Burnout #Mindset #BusinessOwners #PersonalGrowth #WorkLifeBalance #Success #Podcast   https://shop.fromthegroundupshow.com/   Sponsor Links: https://www.macarthurco.com https://athletefresh.shop/fromthegroundupshow   Connect with From The Ground Up Show:  https://fromthegroundupshow.com https://www.youtube.com/@FromTheGroundUp-k9p https://www.facebook.com/fromthegroundupshow https://www.instagram.com/fromthegroundupshow/ https://www.tiktok.com/@fromthegroundupshow https://x.com/FTGUshow   Watch the video show on YouTube: https://youtu.be/dyjQUJhMODQ   Appear on the Show as an expert guest or ask a question of Erick and one of his guests:  https://fromthegroundupshow.com   Guest Links: https://www.dralicianewsome.com/freegift/ https://draliciagifts.com/   Sponsor Links: https://www.macarthurco.com

    1h 41m
  8. Van Carlson - Risk, Wealth, and the Entrepreneur’s Edge: Protecting What You Build

    Apr 14

    Van Carlson - Risk, Wealth, and the Entrepreneur’s Edge: Protecting What You Build

    Most entrepreneurs spend their time thinking about growth. Very few spend enough time thinking about risk. But the truth is—one unexpected event can threaten everything you’ve built. In this episode of From The Ground Up Show, I sit down with Van Carlsen, a nationally recognized expert in risk management and alternative insurance strategies. Raised on a farm and now working with thousands of business owners across the country, Van helps entrepreneurs understand how to protect their companies, their assets, and their long-term wealth. We dive into the hidden risks that many business owners overlook, why traditional insurance often falls short, and how strategies like 831(b) plans can help businesses create smarter protection. This conversation is packed with practical insights for entrepreneurs, ranchers, contractors, and anyone building something meaningful from the ground up. In this episode we discuss: The biggest risks most entrepreneurs don’t see coming • Why many businesses are under-protected • The real purpose behind 831(b) risk management strategies • How successful entrepreneurs think differently about protection • Lessons from working with thousands of business owners across the country If you're building a business, running a ranch, leading a team, or investing in your future, this episode will challenge the way you think about risk, protection, and long-term growth. Because building something great isn't just about scaling— it's about protecting what you've built. #FromTheGroundUpShow #BusinessPodcast #EntrepreneurPodcast #RiskManagement #SmallBusinessOwner #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #WealthBuilding #FinancialStrategy #Leadership #BlueCollarBusiness #Ranching #Agriculture #StartupLife #BusinessMindset #ProtectWhatYouBuild   https://shop.fromthegroundupshow.com/   Sponsor Links: https://www.macarthurco.com https://athletefresh.shop/fromthegroundupshow   Connect with From The Ground Up Show:  https://fromthegroundupshow.com https://www.youtube.com/@FromTheGroundUp-k9p https://www.facebook.com/fromthegroundupshow https://www.instagram.com/fromthegroundupshow/ https://www.tiktok.com/@fromthegroundupshow https://x.com/FTGUshow   Watch the video show on YouTube: https://youtu.be/O0WVfFDYYhw   Appear on the Show as an expert guest or ask a question of Erick and one of his guests:  https://fromthegroundupshow.com   Guest Links: https://www.831b.com/   Sponsor Links: https://www.macarthurco.com

    1h 47m
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From The Ground Up Show is where the next generation of free-thinking leaders come to be inspired. Host Erick Loden sits down with the men and women who’ve built success with their hands, their hustle, and their heart — from tradespeople and entrepreneurs to self-starters and service members we sit down with those who have rejected the traditional career path and chosen to blaze their own path. Through raw, honest conversations and real listener questions, we uncover the lessons, mindset, and grit it takes to build something that lasts - from the ground up. 

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