Founders' Forum

Marc Bernstein

Great business stories and great people come together on Marc Bernstein’s Founders’ Forum!  Marc Bernstein sits down with business founders across the country to discuss their lives, successes, lessons, and their vision for the future.  It’s all about the success they’ve earned and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.  These are American success stories and they’re not done yet!                                   Your Host, Marc Bernstein                                  Marc Bernstein is an entrepreneur, author, and consultant. He helps high performing entrepreneurs and business owners create a vision for the future, accomplish their business and personal goals, financial and otherwise, and on helping them to see through on their intentions. Marc recently co-founded March, a forward-looking company with a unique approach to wealth management. He captured his philosophy in his #1 Amazon Bestseller, The Fiscal Therapy Solution 1.0. Marc is also the founder of the Forward Focus Forum, a suite of resources tailored specifically to educate and connect high performing entrepreneurs, and helping them realize their vision of true financial independence. Find out more about Marc and connect with him at marcjbernstein.com.                              Are you a visionary founder with a compelling success story that deserves to be shared with our audience? We're on the lookout for accomplished business leaders like you to be featured on the Founders' Forum Radio Show and Podcast. If you've surmounted challenges, reached significant milestones, or have an exciting vision for the future, we'd be honored to have you as a guest on our show. Your experiences and insights can inspire and enlighten others in the business world. If you're eager to share your journey and the invaluable lessons you've learned along the way, we invite you to apply here. Connect with us, and let's discuss the possibility of featuring you in an upcoming episode. Join us in celebrating your success and contributing to the legacy of the Founders' Forum! Securities offered through DFPG Investments, LLC (“DFPG”) Investment Advisory Services offered through Diversify Advisory Services, LLC (“Diversify”). DAS and DFPG are affiliated entities. March is unaffiliated with DAS and DFPG. Member FINRA/SIPC The information provided in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as investment advice. The views expressed are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of Diversify or DFPG.

  1. 2d ago

    Why Execution Beats Perfect Planning with Pete Meyer

    Pete Meyer has spent nearly three decades building businesses, navigating industry shifts, and learning one of entrepreneurship's toughest lessons: success comes from execution, not perfect planning. In this episode of Founders Forum, Pete Meyer, Founder and CEO of Cause Connect, joins Marc Bernstein to share his journey from the early days of the dot-com boom to building companies that have generated more than $100 million in revenue. Along the way, he reveals the hard-earned lessons that shaped his entrepreneurial mindset, including why adaptability beats cleverness, why every founder must learn to pivot, and how focusing on the problem directly in front of you can unlock growth. Pete also discusses the inspiration behind Cause Connect, an innovative platform that helps businesses turn customer acquisition into charitable impact. By integrating giving directly into marketing efforts, Cause Connect creates a win-win model for brands, consumers, and nonprofit organizations. Beyond business, Pete opens up about family, legacy, and what truly matters when measuring success. His perspective offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs looking to build meaningful companies while creating a lasting impact. Key Takeaways: • How Pete survived the rise and fall of the dot-com era • The entrepreneurial lessons that shaped his success • Why execution matters more than perfect business plans • The power of pivoting when markets change • How Cause Connect helps businesses grow through giving • Pete's approach to legacy, family, and long-term impact • Advice he would give his younger self Whether you're building your first company or scaling your next venture, this conversation delivers practical wisdom on entrepreneurship, resilience, innovation, and purpose-driven business. About Pete Meyer: Pete is a seasoned entrepreneur with nearly 30 years of experience building and scaling businesses. Having generated over $100 million in revenue across multiple ventures, he brings deep expertise in performance marketing, growth strategy, and consumer behavior. Pete's vision for Cause Connect is rooted in one belief: if brands can grow by giving, everyone wins. Connect: Website www.cause-connect.org LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/peter-meyer-bcm/ Marc Bernstein's Founders' Forum is brought to you by March Forward, LLC, and this episode is sponsored by The Satell Institute; the leading CEO organization dedicated to Corporate Social Responsibility. Go to satellinstitute.org to learn more. 📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now! 💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow! 📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook 🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast. 📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.

    28 min
  2. Jun 17

    The Vision Behind America's First Solar-Powered Town with Syd Kitson

    Some founders launch companies. Syd Kitson set out to build a hometown. In this episode of Founders' Forum, Marc Bernstein welcomes Syd Kitson, the visionary behind Babcock Ranch, one of the most innovative and resilient master-planned communities in the United States. Syd shares how his experiences growing up in a close-knit New Jersey town and playing in the NFL helped shape his approach to leadership, perseverance, and community building. From navigating skepticism and regulatory hurdles to creating a culture centered on truth and accountability, Syd discusses the realities of turning a bold vision into reality. He also shares his hopes for how future communities can build upon the lessons learned at Babcock Ranch. Key Takeaways:  How Syd turned a vision into a thriving new town.  The leadership lessons he carried from the NFL to business.  Why trust and transparency are core to his company culture.  The thinking behind building a resilient, sustainable community.  How long-term vision drives meaningful impact and growth.About Syd Kitson: Syd Kitson is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Kitson & Partners, a Florida-based real estate development firm recognized for its commitment to responsible growth and innovative community planning. A graduate of Wake Forest University with a degree in Economics, Syd had a notable career in the National Football League as an offensive guard for the Green Bay Packers and the Dallas Cowboys. After retiring from the NFL, he transitioned into real estate and founded Kitson & Partners in 1999. Syd is best known for leading the creation of Babcock Ranch, the nation’s first fully solar-powered, climate-resilient new town. Babcock Ranch has earned national distinction, including recognition by Money Magazine as one of the “50 Best Places to Live in the U.S.” Beyond his development work, Syd has served in key leadership roles across major civic and business organizations. He has been Chair of the Florida Chamber of Commerce, the Florida Council of 100, and the Board of Governors of the State University System of Florida. His leadership has been honored with multiple awards, including Time Magazine’s “Dreamer of the Year,” the Florida Council of 100’s “Governor’s Business Leader Award,” Builder Magazine’s “Legends Award,” and Wake Forest University’s “Distinguished Alumni Award.” Connect: Website www.babcockranch.com; www.kitsonpartners.com Marc Bernstein's Founders' Forum is brought to you by March Forward, LLC, and this episode is sponsored by Wicks Consulting Group; where innovation meets sustainability in civil engineering. Go to www.wickscg.com to learn more. 📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now! 💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow! 📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook 🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast. 📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.

    31 min
  3. Jun 10

    How Mark Wagner Built More Than a $70M Business

    When the housing market collapsed in 2008, many business owners pulled back. Mark Wagner saw an opportunity to pivot, helping transform a small family flooring business into a national industry leader. His journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of long-term thinking.  In this episode of Founders Forum, Marc Bernstein sits down with Mark Wagner, Co-Founder and CEO of RM Interiors, to discuss his path from installing carpet alongside his brother to leading a company that serves customers across multiple states. Mark shares how he navigated economic uncertainty, seized opportunities in the emerging single-family rental market, and built a culture grounded in accountability, integrity, and continuous improvement.  The conversation also explores the role of mentorship, personal growth, and leadership development in scaling a business. Mark offers a thoughtful perspective on legacy, explaining why his greatest success is helping others become the leaders their families and communities look up to.  Key Takeaways:  Finding opportunity during uncertainty  Building a values-driven culture  The impact of coaching and mentorship  Why accountability matters  Creating a legacy through othersAbout Mark Wagner: Mark’s story in the flooring industry began long before RMI. For 15 years, he worked alongside his brother building Wagner Brothers Tile, where he learned the business from the ground up, installing floors, leading crews, and developing a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and hard work. Those early years shaped his understanding of what it takes to build not just a company, but a team and a culture that lasts. In 2005, Mark and his brother launched RMI, quickly becoming one of Arizona’s leading providers of custom home flooring. When the housing market shifted in 2008, Mark saw opportunity where others saw challenge. Recognizing the growing Single-Family Rental (SFR) industry, he guided RMI into a new chapter, building relationships with national partners and helping to define flooring standards for the sector. Under his leadership, RMI has grown into a $70 million company with 15 locations across major U.S. markets. Today, RMI is known for its reliability, consistency, and partnership-driven approach, values that reflect Mark’s own leadership style. Mark believes success comes from people, from installers to executives, who share the same commitment to growth and integrity. His leadership is grounded in the FITT to GROW values that define RMI’s culture: Forward Thinking, Integrity, Teachable, Teamwork, Growth, Relentless, Ownership, and Workability. He leads by example, fostering transparency, accountability, and a genuine sense of purpose among his team. For Mark, building RMI has never been just about business growth. It’s about building people, relationships, and a company that others are proud to be part of. Connect: Website rmiflooring.com LinkedIn linkedin.com/company/rm-interiors-&-design-inc/ Marc Bernstein's Founders' Forum is brought to you by March Forward, LLC, and this episode is sponsored by RM Interiors; a national flooring company helping builders, property owners, and operators complete projects with quality, consistency, and confidence. Visit rmiflooring.com to learn more. 📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now! 💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow! 📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook 🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast. 📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.

    30 min
  4. Jun 3

    Before SEO Had a Name: How Susan & Devon McCrossin Built Boomtown

    Susan McCrossin launched Boomtown Internet Group in 2001, when nobody knew what to call what she was doing. Two decades later, her daughter Devon is running the company and building it into something even bigger. From cold-calling clients in the early days of Google to managing a global team of 25, the Boomtown story is one of timing, grit, and an unexpected family handoff. Susan shares how she and her husband Jim built one of the earliest digital marketing agencies from scratch, and Devon opens up about leaving corporate America to take the reins and chart a new vision for the company. Key Takeaways: The entrepreneurial mindset often starts long before anyone opens a business.Rapid growth forces hard decisions about roles, hiring, and letting go.Stepping into a parent's business means earning trust on your own terms.The next chapter for Boomtown: a group of companies built to grow together.About Susan and Devon McCrossin: Susan McCrossin and her husband Jim founded Boomtown Internet Group (BiG) in 2004 to help small businesses navigate the internet and grow online.  BiG rapidly evolved into an easy and affordable way for businesses to outsource website design, programming and digital marketing as technologies improved. As Marc can probably attest, Susan finds satisfaction in helping small businesses grow, and instilled that thrill in her daughter Devon who now runs BiG.  Susan has retired to a small Pennsylvania farm where she continues to pursue entrepreneurship through a new woodworking business with her husband.  Devon McCrossin is a partner and owner of Boomtown Internet Group. She has an MBA and undergraduate degree from Penn State with certifications in Google Ads, Google Analytics, and Lean Six Sigma. She has lived and worked across the US and internationally, currently based in Phoenixville, PA. Connect: Website www.boomtownig.com LinkedIn linkedin.com/company/boomtown-internet-group/; linkedin.com/in/suemccrossin/; linkedin.com/in/devonmccrossin/ Marc Bernstein's Founders' Forum is brought to you by March Forward, LLC, and this episode is sponsored by Boomtown Internet Group; the digital marketing and web design agency helping businesses grow online with SEO, paid advertising, and custom websites. Go to boomtownig.com to learn more. 📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now! 💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow! 📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook 🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast. 📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.

    29 min
  5. May 27

    The Exit Nobody Prepares You For with Chris Donnelly

    Selling your business doesn't mean you've arrived. It means you're starting over. And nobody warns you about the wall you hit on the other side. In this episode, Marc Bernstein sits down with Chris Donnelly, a former investment banker turned plumbing and HVAC entrepreneur who spent a decade rebuilding his family's business before selling it in 2023. Amy Wicks, founder of Wicks Consulting Group, joins as guest co-host. Chris shares the unfiltered story of leaving Wall Street for a trade shop in Lansdale, how one employee exit forced him to launch an entirely new service line, and the identity crisis that followed a successful exit. Key Takeaways: Losing 30% of revenue overnight can be the push a business needsCulture balance: caring deeply about people while staying performance-drivenConsistent one-on-ones are the simplest way to grow leaders from withinKnow when to develop talent internally and when to hire outside A-playersThree unsolvable problems became the clearest sign it was time to sellPost-exit identity reset is real, and most entrepreneurs don't see it comingAbout Chris Donnelly: Chris Donnelly is a galvanizer who removes barriers to agency for mid-market CEOs. After selling his business in 2023, he's navigating his "second curve"—from operator to advisor—serving as a Vistage chair and strategic advisor. Chris helps stuck CEOs ($30-200M revenue) escape operational quicksand by building systems that solve problems without them. Drawing on frameworks from psychology, strategy, and power dynamics, he transforms decision paralysis into decisive action. He's proof that your next chapter can be more meaningful than your first. Connect: Website www.vistage.com LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/chrisdonnellyvistage Marc Bernstein's Founders' Forum is brought to you by March Forward, LLC, and this episode is sponsored by The Satell Institute; the leading CEO organization dedicated to Corporate Social Responsibility. Go to satellinstitute.org to learn more. 📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now! 💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow! 📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook 🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast. 📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.

    31 min
  6. May 20

    Marta Sylvester: When Conscience Becomes Your Business Plan

    Her son asked her one question that changed everything. How many tons of plastic are you personally responsible for sitting in a landfill right now? For Marta Sylvester, founder and CEO of NuGen Packaging, that moment didn't just sting. It sparked a company. After 20 years climbing the ranks of the traditional packaging industry, Marta walked away from a VP of Sales role to build something she actually believed in. Today, NuGen Packaging is a leading sustainable packaging solutions provider and the first company in the U.S. to introduce aluminum bottles to the nutraceutical and OTC markets. Key Takeaways: Breaking into B2B sales without a degreeWhy she left a VP role after 20 years in corporateSurviving pandemic supply chain chaosConvincing skeptical brands to ditch plasticBuilding a learning culture in a lean teamHer three-year vision for disrupting packagingMarta also opens up about imposter syndrome, navigating a male-dominated industry as a woman founder, and her plans to support other women in business through WeBank. About Marta Sylvester: Marta is the Founder and CEO of NuGen Packaging, a packaging solutions provider changing the way brands think about sustainability. With more than three decades of experience, she brings both expertise and fresh perspective to how packaging can drive impact in today’s market. Connect: Website nugenpackaging.com LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/martasylvester/; linkedin.com/company/nugen-packaging Instagram @nugen_packaging This episode is brought to you by NuGen Packaging, Modern Solutions, Sustainable Impact. Go to nugenpackaging.com to learn more. 📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now! 💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow! 📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook 🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast. 📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.

    28 min
  7. May 13

    Amy Wicks on What Sustainable Engineering Really Looks Like

    What does it really take to build a brand people trust and remember? In this episode of Founders Forum, Amy N. Wicks, P.E. shares how she turns insight into impact and helps founders create meaningful connections that support long term growth. Joined by guest co-host Chris Donnelly, the conversation explores Amy’s journey through business growth, brand strategy, and staying authentic in a crowded market. She opens up about early challenges, key turning points, and what it really takes to build something sustainable, not just something that launches. You’ll also hear practical insights on how founders can position themselves more clearly, communicate their value, and stay aligned with their bigger vision as they scale. Key Takeaways:  Clear messaging matters  Authenticity builds trust  Storytelling strengthens connection  Growth comes from key pivots  Positioning sets you apartAbout Amy Wicks: Amy Wicks, P.E., is the Founder and President of Wicks Consulting Group, a civil engineering and planning firm focused on resilient land development and sustainable infrastructure. She specializes in stormwater management, flood resiliency, and helping communities grow responsibly in rapidly changing environments. Amy is passionate about building projects — and teams — that create lasting impact for both clients and communities. Connect: Website wickscg.com LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/amy-wicks-149aa911/; linkedin.com/company/wicks-consulting-group/ Marc Bernstein's Founders' Forum is brought to you by March Forward, LLC, and this episode is sponsored by Wicks Consulting Group; where innovation meets sustainability in civil engineering. Go to www.wickscg.com to learn more. 📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now! 💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow! 📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook 🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast. 📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.

    30 min
  8. May 6

    Why Entrepreneurs Should Start Earlier with Bill Sprague

    Bill Sprague didn't wait for the perfect moment — he built one. Starting Risk Averse Insurance in 2015 with no clients and a blank slate, Bill and his childhood best friend turned a bold idea into one of Philadelphia's leading commercial insurance brokerages. Bill Sprague, President and founder of Risk Averse Insurance, shares how he grew a firm built on proactive service, strategic acquisitions, and a culture of accountability. From saying no to the wrong clients to navigating culture clashes during mergers, Bill gets real about what it takes to scale with intention. Key Takeaways: Clarity is a moving target — stepping back regularly to realign with your vision is essential during rapid growth.Moving upstream changes everything — transitioning to larger commercial clients required bold decisions and full team buy-in.Organic growth fuels staying power — acquisitions are great, but investing in sales training builds the foundation that lasts.Culture is built on accountability — Bill's firm runs on a can-do attitude and a winning mentality.Start earlier — Bill's biggest advice to his younger self is that the risk of starting a business never gets smaller.About Bill Sprague: Bill is the founder and president of Risk Averse Insurance which is a commercial insurance brokerage serving clients in construction, manufacturing, wholesale, and commercial real estate. In business since 2015, Bill and team have turned Risk Averse into a leading brokerage in the area by providing clients a more proactive approach to protecting their business.  Connect: Website riskaverseinsurance.com LinkedIn linkedin.com/company/risk-averse-insurance/ Facebook facebook.com/RiskAverseInsurance/ This episode is sponsored by The Satell Institute; the leading CEO organization dedicated to Corporate Social Responsibility. Go to satellinstitute.org to learn more. 📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now! 💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow! 📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook 🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast. 📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.

    28 min
5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Great business stories and great people come together on Marc Bernstein’s Founders’ Forum!  Marc Bernstein sits down with business founders across the country to discuss their lives, successes, lessons, and their vision for the future.  It’s all about the success they’ve earned and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.  These are American success stories and they’re not done yet!                                   Your Host, Marc Bernstein                                  Marc Bernstein is an entrepreneur, author, and consultant. He helps high performing entrepreneurs and business owners create a vision for the future, accomplish their business and personal goals, financial and otherwise, and on helping them to see through on their intentions. Marc recently co-founded March, a forward-looking company with a unique approach to wealth management. He captured his philosophy in his #1 Amazon Bestseller, The Fiscal Therapy Solution 1.0. Marc is also the founder of the Forward Focus Forum, a suite of resources tailored specifically to educate and connect high performing entrepreneurs, and helping them realize their vision of true financial independence. Find out more about Marc and connect with him at marcjbernstein.com.                              Are you a visionary founder with a compelling success story that deserves to be shared with our audience? We're on the lookout for accomplished business leaders like you to be featured on the Founders' Forum Radio Show and Podcast. If you've surmounted challenges, reached significant milestones, or have an exciting vision for the future, we'd be honored to have you as a guest on our show. Your experiences and insights can inspire and enlighten others in the business world. If you're eager to share your journey and the invaluable lessons you've learned along the way, we invite you to apply here. Connect with us, and let's discuss the possibility of featuring you in an upcoming episode. Join us in celebrating your success and contributing to the legacy of the Founders' Forum! Securities offered through DFPG Investments, LLC (“DFPG”) Investment Advisory Services offered through Diversify Advisory Services, LLC (“Diversify”). DAS and DFPG are affiliated entities. March is unaffiliated with DAS and DFPG. Member FINRA/SIPC The information provided in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as investment advice. The views expressed are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of Diversify or DFPG.

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