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
  • 5.0 (6)
  • Careers
  • Updated Weekly

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. 1d ago

    Kyle Weber - He Built a Multi-Million Dollar Roofing Company on Relationships, Not Leads

    In this episode of From The Ground Up Show, Erick Loden sits down with Kyle Weber to discuss the lessons, relationships, and work ethic that have shaped his career in the roofing industry and business world. While many entrepreneurs chase the latest marketing tactic or growth hack, Kyle shares why long-term success is often built on something much simpler: trust, relationships, consistency, and delivering value over time. Kyle discusses his journey in the roofing business, the importance of networking, how referrals continue to drive business growth, and why strong personal and professional relationships remain one of the most valuable assets an entrepreneur can build. Whether you're a contractor, tradesman, small business owner, salesperson, or entrepreneur, this conversation offers practical insights on leadership, business development, relationship marketing, and building a company that lasts. In this episode, you'll learn: How networking can create opportunities that advertising never will • Why referrals remain one of the most powerful business growth tools • The mindset required to succeed in the trades and construction industries • Leadership lessons learned through entrepreneurship • How to build trust, credibility, and lasting business relationships • Why consistency beats shortcuts in business and life If you're looking for practical business advice, entrepreneurial wisdom, and real-world lessons from someone building success from the ground up, this episode is for you. Subscribe to From The Ground Up Show for conversations with entrepreneurs, business owners, tradesmen, leaders, and innovators who are building exceptional lives and businesses through heart, hands, and hustle. #FromTheGroundUpShow #KyleWeber #RoofingBusiness #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusinessGrowth #ContractorLife #BusinessLeadership #Networking #RelationshipMarketing #Sales #BlueCollarBusiness #ConstructionIndustry #BusinessPodcast #LeadershipDevelopment #BusinessGrowth 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/TuKrYdoBoRo   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.youtube.com/@HometownRoofingSC https://hometownroofingsc.com/ 843-331-5850 https://www.instagram.com/hometownroofingsc/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088431266733

    Kyle Weber - He Built a Multi-Million Dollar Roofing Company on Relationships, Not Leads

  2. Jul 21

    Matt Andersen - Intentional Growth: Building a Business Buyers Want

    Most business owners focus on growing revenue. The best business owners focus on building value. In this episode of From The Ground Up Show, host Erick Loden sits down with Matt Andersen to explore what separates good companies from truly valuable businesses. Drawing on experience from more than $5 billion in mergers and acquisitions transactions, Matt shares practical insights on business growth, leadership, company culture, enterprise value, succession planning, and creating a business that can thrive beyond its founder. Whether you're a contractor, entrepreneur, trades professional, small business owner, or executive leader, this conversation offers a roadmap for building a company that is attractive to buyers, resilient through change, and positioned for long-term success. In this episode, you'll learn: How to increase the value of your business long before you plan to sell • What buyers are really looking for during acquisitions • Why leadership development is critical to business growth • How company culture impacts enterprise value • The importance of succession planning and owner independence • Common mistakes business owners make when preparing for an exit • Why the best exit strategies often begin years in advance If you're interested in entrepreneurship, business strategy, leadership, mergers and acquisitions, company valuation, or building a business that lasts, this episode is packed with actionable lessons you can apply immediately. Listen now and learn how to build a business that's worth more than the owner who started it. #BusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship #BusinessOwner #Leadership #BusinessStrategy #ExitStrategy #MergersAndAcquisitions #SmallBusiness #CompanyCulture #EntrepreneurLife #Founder #FromTheGroundUpShow   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/hIMWKeTyKiM   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://westlakesecurities.com/ https://www.amazon.com/Completing-Deal-Mergers-Acquisitions-Raising/dp/163299691X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2VSF8RURGGIDV&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.WJGlk6iXxPBN5H11Dz1bLvedjzSSODCziPaL4veKs24IQ55U2MC4EuQNd9TQ-BvBVxiaNB-4siTSWqB4kXHQ7Xx23rXcT8cXjjd4ZCz8fZLPhcZ5xOj7v4ci0ZhRDhTRm7se1I93tujE6U8V6GplGtVj2zNs8D-u9J4z3wM3QrfaE4NB3GeNxWKdTlyW56Ro.OJyO_EC-jJwihVFN1sTzi7v4Vt4Cmo5Im36nKyup6Bc&dib_tag=se&keywords=completing+the+deal&qid=1780170106&sprefix=completing+the+dea%2Caps%2C298&sr=8-1 https://www.amazon.com/Intentional-Growth-Performance-Outcomes-Company/dp/1639081879/ref=sr_1_1?crid=87IC4OOBJN40&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.2S1PEn-gGCV51etZ8BgkQr-aFzZkO5gUDVFrxBthjKG3uq8zVIgSbdM7vQrU-opqirSjAuIl2hjvjmy61GNPMHOARRq_ghNZEd0qdepAjLqTvQNd1rxScfw2_9LcOMbuxeBKnRBudO78grhomDHlcGNkym-Rjwntb83Vfjp-aV0jVTyRWyKejw-7KHYKHyNFb-6XsbaRwWoE7FMmiYT5F6KQKv-W8VuCI42hGzIsHwo.6QGjyaiJFpussXO2GLZRCv2eyFjuvh3zr-4TiCDhOX4&dib_tag=se&keywords=intentional+growth&qid=1780170131&sprefix=intentional+growth%2Caps%2C305&sr=8-1 https://www.linkedin.com/posts/westlake-securities_author-westlake-ceo-matt-andersen-discusses-activity-7236775330705764352-PHtJ/

    Matt Andersen - Intentional Growth: Building a Business Buyers Want

  3. Jul 14

    Mike Goldenstein - From Roofing Contractor to Tech Entrepreneur - The Future of Roofing Sales & Technology

    In this episode of From The Ground Up Show, we sit down with Mike Goldenstein to talk about entrepreneurship, leadership, business growth, and what it really takes to build a long-term career in the trades and construction industries. With more than three decades of experience across multiple sides of business, Mike shares lessons learned from building companies, navigating industry changes, developing sales teams, embracing technology, and adapting to an evolving marketplace. This conversation goes far beyond roofing — diving into mindset, leadership, customer relationships, business development, and the realities of growing a company from the ground up. We discuss: • Entrepreneurship & business growth • Leadership lessons from decades in the trades • Sales, customer relationships & communication • Technology’s impact on traditional industries • Building and scaling a business • Adapting to change in competitive markets • Lessons learned through success and failure • The future of skilled trades & construction Whether you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, contractor, salesperson, trades professional, or someone working to grow personally and professionally, this episode is packed with practical insight and real-world experience. 🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and everywhere podcasts are available. #FromTheGroundUpShow #EntrepreneurPodcast #BusinessGrowth #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #ConstructionIndustry #Tradesmen #BusinessPodcast #SmallBusiness #SalesLeadership #ContractorLife #LeadershipDevelopment 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/xJpcw9ahZT0   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://offers.roofle.com/

    Mike Goldenstein - From Roofing Contractor to Tech Entrepreneur - The Future of Roofing Sales & Technology

  4. Jul 7

    Amanda Sima - From Patent to Courtroom - Innovation, Entrepreneurship Betrayal, & Protecting Your Ideas

    What does it really take to turn an idea into a successful business — and what happens when that success puts a target on your back? In this episode of From The Ground Up Show, Amanda Sima shares her journey from entrepreneur and innovator to navigating the complex world of patents, intellectual property, licensing, and legal battles. This conversation dives deep into the realities of entrepreneurship that most people never see: the risk, sacrifice, persistence, and pressure that come with building something valuable from scratch. We discuss: Entrepreneurship and startup growth Patents and intellectual property protection Product development and innovation Business partnerships and legal challenges Licensing deals and scaling a brand Resilience, leadership, and learning through adversity Whether you’re a founder, small business owner, inventor, creator, or someone chasing a big idea, this episode delivers hard-earned lessons and real-world insight into what it takes to build — and defend — something meaningful. If you enjoy conversations about entrepreneurship, business strategy, innovation, leadership, startups, and the realities of building a company from the ground up, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. 🎧 Listen now and subscribe to From The Ground Up Show for more conversations with entrepreneurs, builders, creators, and industry leaders. #Entrepreneurship #BusinessPodcast #Startups #Innovation #Leadership #SmallBusiness #Patents #IntellectualProperty #FounderStory #BusinessGrowth 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/fe9Seg7FMBY   Appear on the Show as an expert guest or ask a question of Erick and one of his guests:  https://fromthegroundupshow.com   Guest Links: http://brainonloan.com https://www.youtube.com/@BrainonLoan

    Amanda Sima - From Patent to Courtroom - Innovation, Entrepreneurship Betrayal, & Protecting Your Ideas

  5. Jun 30

    Chris Zimmerman - Building an Empire From Roofing to AI

    In this episode of From The Ground Up Show, we sit down with Chris Zimmerman for a deep conversation about entrepreneurship, leadership, roofing, artificial intelligence, faith, family, and what it takes to continue building after achieving success. Chris shares lessons learned from growing businesses in the blue collar world while also embracing emerging technology and AI. We discuss the realities of scaling a company, the mindset required to lead at a high level, the future of AI in business, and why trades and entrepreneurship still create massive opportunity in America today. This episode is packed with real-world insight for entrepreneurs, business owners, contractors, creators, and anyone interested in business growth, leadership, self-improvement, and the future of technology. Topics include: • Entrepreneurship & business growth • Roofing and the trades • Artificial intelligence and the future of business • Leadership and mindset • Faith, family, and purpose • Scaling companies from the ground up • The realities of success and ambition If you enjoy podcasts about entrepreneurship, business, self-made success stories, AI, leadership, and blue collar business, this episode is for you. 🎙️ Subscribe to From The Ground Up Show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify for more conversations with entrepreneurs, creators, and leaders building meaningful lives and businesses. #FromTheGroundUpShow #Entrepreneurship #BusinessPodcast #AI #ArtificialIntelligence #Roofing #BlueCollar #Leadership #SmallBusiness #Startup #Construction #Mindset #Success #BusinessOwner #Faith #Innovation #SelfMade #Podcast #Tradesman #BusinessGrowth   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/47vMSWFhqGM   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.masteryourcraftgroup.com https://www.facebook.com/chris.zimmerman.79 https://aysroofing.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@AtYourServiceRoofing https://www.owenscorning.com/en-us/roofing/contractors/contractor-profile/228042 https://gladstone-ai.com

    Chris Zimmerman - Building an Empire From Roofing to AI

  6. Jun 23

    Adrian Keeler - From Fly Fishing to Sheriff: Leadership, Faith & Protecting Wyoming

    In this episode of From The Ground Up Show, host Erick Loden sits down with Deputy Adrian Keeler, a 20-year law enforcement veteran, community leader, family man, and candidate for Sheriff, for an in-depth conversation about leadership, service, faith, character, and the challenges facing communities across Wyoming. Adrian shares lessons learned from two decades behind the badge, what it means to lead under pressure, the importance of accountability and integrity in public service, and why strong communities depend on leaders who are willing to serve others before themselves. From stories of life in law enforcement to discussions about family, faith, personal responsibility, and the future of Wyoming, this episode offers valuable insights for business owners, entrepreneurs, first responders, community leaders, and anyone interested in leadership and public service. Whether you're interested in law enforcement, local government, leadership development, or simply hearing the story of someone dedicated to serving his community, this conversation delivers practical wisdom and authentic perspective from the front lines of public service. Topics discussed include: Leadership under pressure • Law enforcement and public safety • Faith, family, and character • Community leadership • Public service and accountability • Wyoming values and culture • The role of a Sheriff in local government • Building trust within a community • Personal responsibility and servant leadership If you enjoy conversations with entrepreneurs, tradespeople, first responders, and leaders who are making a difference in their communities, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a friend. #FromTheGroundUpShow #Leadership #LawEnforcement #Sheriff #Wyoming #PublicService #CommunityLeadership #FaithAndLeadership #LeadershipPodcast #BlueCollarLeadership #ProtectAndServe #ServantLeadership 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/2EjLvX9veng   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/adriankeeler.jcsheriff https://www.instagram.com/adriankeeler.jcsheriff/

    Adrian Keeler - From Fly Fishing to Sheriff: Leadership, Faith & Protecting Wyoming

  7. Jun 16

    Jesse Boulden - Why So Many Young Men Feel Lost Today - The Crisis Facing Young Men — And One Program Fighting Back

    What does it take to turn boys into capable, disciplined, purpose-driven men in today’s world? In this episode of From The Ground Up Show, host Erick Loden sits down with Jesse Boulden for a powerful conversation about masculinity, leadership, discipline, service, and the growing crisis facing young men in America. Jesse shares the mission behind ALERT Academy and explains how structure, responsibility, hard work, faith, and challenge can radically transform young men who feel lost, distracted, or without direction. This episode explores why modern culture often fails young men — and what families, mentors, and communities can do to rebuild purpose and character. Topics include: Masculinity and modern culture Leadership development for young men Discipline, accountability, and responsibility Purpose and identity Service and character building Faith, mentorship, and personal growth Why challenge builds confidence The importance of strong male role models If you care about leadership, fatherhood, discipline, self-improvement, rural values, or raising the next generation with strength and purpose, this episode is for you. Subscribe to From The Ground Up Show on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube for conversations about entrepreneurship, leadership, agriculture, culture, business, personal growth, and the people building America from the ground up. #FromTheGroundUpShow #Podcast #Masculinity #Leadership #PersonalGrowth #SelfDiscipline #YoungMen #Purpose #Faith #LeadershipDevelopment #MensMentalHealth #Character #Fatherhood #Service #AmericanValues #RuralAmerica #Entrepreneurship #Responsibility #StrongMen #LongFormPodcast 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/sSHZ4c6c7dI   Appear on the Show as an expert guest or ask a question of Erick and one of his guests:  https://fromthegroundupshow.com   Guest Links: internationalalertacademy.com info@alertacademy.com 903-636-9500

    Jesse Boulden - Why So Many Young Men Feel Lost Today - The Crisis Facing Young Men — And One Program Fighting Back

  8. Jun 9

    Katherine Flechaus- What’s Really Holding You Back Isn’t Skill—It’s Belief And, You Can Fix It!

    What’s actually holding you back from the next level of success? In this episode of From The Ground Up Show, Katherine Flechaus dives deep into the hidden belief systems that quietly shape the way high performers think, act, and grow. If you’ve ever felt stuck despite doing all the “right” things, this conversation uncovers why—and what to do about it. You’ll learn how subconscious patterns influence your decisions, leadership style, and overall trajectory, often without you even realizing it. More importantly, Katherine shares practical insight on how to identify and break these limiting beliefs so you can move forward with clarity, confidence, and purpose. This episode is for entrepreneurs, leaders, and driven individuals who know they’re capable of more—and are ready to remove the internal barriers standing in the way. If you're serious about growth, mindset, and unlocking your full potential, this is a must-listen. #FromTheGroundUp #EntrepreneurPodcast #Leadership #Mindset #HighPerformance #PersonalDevelopment #BusinessGrowth #SelfImprovement #SuccessMindset 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/MimZ5SwOLyI   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.alignedcorelifecoaching.com/ hello@alignedcorelifecoaching.com

    Katherine Flechaus- What’s Really Holding You Back Isn’t Skill—It’s Belief And, You Can Fix It!
See All (42)

Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

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. 

Information