How I Broke That

How I Broke That

For better or worse, most business owners have “broken” themselves, their business, or their industry at some point. Josh Chernikoff, a serial entrepreneur who has successfully grown (and broken) three bootstrapped businesses, interviews other entrepreneurs to learn how they built, broke, and rebuilt within their industry. Each episode will simultaneously induce cringes and provide comfort in helping you realize you are not alone in breaking something on your path to innovation. Twitter @jdchernikoff Instagram @joshuadcdc https://www.joshchernikoff.com

  1. From Yugoslavia to the US, Medicine to EdTech: The Inspiring Journey of Dr. Jasminka Criley

    JAN 4

    From Yugoslavia to the US, Medicine to EdTech: The Inspiring Journey of Dr. Jasminka Criley

    Summary In this episode, Dr. Jasminka Criley shares her inspiring journey from growing up in Yugoslavia to becoming a prominent figure in medical research and education in America. She discusses her determination to enter the medical field, her transition to cancer research, and her eventual move to California, where she founded Indelible Learning, an organization focused on enhancing education for gifted children. Jasminka also highlights the creation of Election Lab Online, a program aimed at improving understanding of the Electoral College through authentic learning experiences. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the importance of resilience, critical thinking, and the impact of education on personal and societal growth. Takeaways A doctor in Croatia? A teacher in America? Discover how Jasminka defied expectations and forged her own path to success.The American Dream isn't always easy. Hear how Jasminka overcame adversity to build a better life for herself and her family.Cancer research can change the world – and a life. Find out how this experience sparked Jasminka's passion for education.Tired of cookie-cutter schools? Jasminka was too. Learn how she created "Indelible Learning" to revolutionize education.Want to raise kids who are curious and engaged? Jasminka's parenting secrets will transform your family's learning journey.The Electoral College is more than just confusing. Jasminka exposes the hidden flaws that could be undermining democracy.Memorization is dead. Discover why authentic learning is the key to unlocking your child's true potential.Life throws curveballs. Learn how resilience helped Jasminka overcome challenges and achieve her dreams.Forget rote learning. Jasminka reveals why critical thinking is the most important skill for the 21st century.Education isn't a solo act. Find out why community involvement is crucial to creating a thriving learning environment. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jasminka Criley, MD 01:25 Journey from Yugoslavia to Medical School 04:01 The Move to America and Cancer Research 08:22 Transitioning from Research to Clinical Practice 11:36 Founding Indelible Learning 13:59 The Creation of Election Lab Online 22:02 The Importance of Authentic Learning

    27 min
  2. A Journey of Resilience, Innovation, and Jewish Identity: The Devin Schain Story

    11/17/2024

    A Journey of Resilience, Innovation, and Jewish Identity: The Devin Schain Story

    Summary In this conversation, Devin Schain shares his journey from personal challenges, including his parents' divorce, to becoming a successful entrepreneur and the founder of Shalom Learning. He discusses the importance of resilience, the lessons learned from his early business ventures, and how he adapted to create an innovative online Hebrew school that addresses the needs of modern Jewish families. The conversation also touches on the impact of recent events on the Jewish community and the importance of education in fostering connection and understanding. Takeaways Devin's journey as an entrepreneur has been a rollercoaster ride, teaching him that resilience and adaptability are the keys to survival in the ever-changing world of education.Devin's childhood wasn't all sunshine and rainbows; a major family upheaval forced him to grow up fast and ignited a fire in him to prove himself.Before Shalom Learning, Devin was already a young hustler with a string of ventures—some brilliant, some busts, and one that almost landed him in hot water with the authorities!Frustrated with outdated Hebrew education, Devin's radical idea for improvement was met with resistance and skepticism.Devin discovered that passionate teachers are the secret weapon of any successful program, but finding and keeping them would be his biggest challenge yet.Forget stuffy classrooms and dusty textbooks; Devin had a vision for 21st-century learning that would blow your mind, but could he convince others to embrace it?Just when Shalom Learning was hitting its stride, disaster struck!Devin knew Jewish education wasn't just about textbooks; building a vibrant community with diverse needs would be a delicate balancing act.Shalom Learning isn't just about teaching Hebrew; it's about instilling a love of Jewish heritage in a world of distractions.Shalom Learning has exploded in popularity from humble beginnings, but with rapid growth comes new challenges and unexpected growing pains. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Early Life Challenges 09:59 Entrepreneurial Journey Begins 20:09 The Birth of Shalom Learning 29:50 Adapting to a Changing World  Want more help getting leads and sales? 👉✨ Book a FREE strategy call with me. Together we'll look at your entire lead gen system and see where you need to focus to start bringing in high-quality, high-converting leads!

    35 min
  3. From Sandwich Artist to Subway Superstar: The Michael Fay Story

    11/17/2024

    From Sandwich Artist to Subway Superstar: The Michael Fay Story

    Summary In this conversation, Michael Fay shares his journey from working at Subway during high school to becoming a successful multi-unit franchise owner. He discusses the importance of early experiences in retail, the lessons learned from various companies like Blockbuster and frozen yogurt businesses, and the significance of company culture and direct feedback. Michael emphasizes the value of following established systems, the importance of building a strong team, and his unique approach to turning around struggling restaurants. The conversation highlights the collaborative relationship between Michael and Josh, showcasing their mutual respect and shared experiences in business. Takeaways Uncover the surprising life lessons hidden behind the counter of your local Subway that could unlock your own success story.Master the art of feedback and uncomfortable conversations to catapult your career to new heights.Dive into the high-stakes world of franchise ownership, where one wrong move could cost you everything.Uncover the surprising truth about employee happiness and why a thriving company culture is the ultimate competitive advantage.See how one entrepreneur used creativity to dominate the frozen yogurt scene in a battle for brain freeze.Discover the essential policies and training programs that separate successful companies from those that crumble under pressure.Meet the operational masterminds who keep the gears turning behind the scenes and empower businesses to reach their full potential.Explore restaurants' strategies to stay ahead of the curve and thrive in a cutthroat industry.Discover the secrets behind Subway's global domination and whether their proven playbook can be replicated for success in any industry.Learn how creating a family-like environment can foster unwavering loyalty and commitment in your team. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Michael Fay 02:51 Early Lessons at Subway 08:21 Company Culture Insights from Blockbuster 10:30 Innovating in the Frozen Yogurt Business 14:04 The Flex Academies Experience 16:53 The Subway Journey Begins 20:57 The Turnaround Guy Philosophy 23:44 The Importance of Following the Subway Playbook 26:34 Building a Strong Team Culture 30:46 Creating a Family-Like Environment 34:51 Conclusion and Reflections Want more help getting leads and sales? 👉✨ Book a FREE strategy call with me. Together we'll look at your entire lead gen system and see where you need to focus to start bringing in high-quality, high-converting leads!

    36 min

About

For better or worse, most business owners have “broken” themselves, their business, or their industry at some point. Josh Chernikoff, a serial entrepreneur who has successfully grown (and broken) three bootstrapped businesses, interviews other entrepreneurs to learn how they built, broke, and rebuilt within their industry. Each episode will simultaneously induce cringes and provide comfort in helping you realize you are not alone in breaking something on your path to innovation. Twitter @jdchernikoff Instagram @joshuadcdc https://www.joshchernikoff.com