How to Scale a Business

Laura Humphreys shares the unfiltered journey of building—and selling—a $15 million agency, only after nearly burning out in the process. Now a mentor to agencies worldwide, Laura unpacks the seven strategies she teaches to help owner-operators escape the hamster wheel, reclaim their time, and create scalable, high-performance businesses. From using AI to future-proof service delivery to building deep sea sales pipelines, this episode is packed with both war stories and winning tactics for founders who are ready to lead like CEOs.

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Hector sits down with Aaron Reiter, Managing Partner at InterProse, to challenge everything you thought you knew about debt collection. With a background in communication, sales, and psychology, Aaron shares how he unexpectedly found purpose in an industry often overlooked—or even misunderstood. Discover how InterProse uses education, technology, and empathy to support family-owned businesses and drive revenue recovery without compromising integrity. If you're looking for hidden profit levers in your business, or ways to scale with compassion, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss.

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Hector Santiesteban sits down with Kash Fadaie, founder of Fadaie Insurance Services, to explore how an internal spiritual awakening transformed into a thriving business. Kash shares how escaping Iran as a child, diving into sacred texts, and seeking divine alignment laid the foundation for scaling a purpose-driven insurance company. If you’ve ever felt called to grow a business without losing your soul, this conversation will resonate deeply.

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In this episode of How to Scale a Business, host Hector Santiesteban is joined by Kurt Schmidt, an agency business coach, Inc. 5000 leader, and former extreme sports pro. Together, they dive deep into the highs and lows of growing a service-based business. From the profitable "sweet spot" of 6–12 employees to the leadership transitions that trip up creatives-turned-CEOs, Kurt shares real talk and real strategies for scaling sustainably. If you're running an agency, creative studio, or service-driven company — this is an episode you can't afford to miss.

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Chad Harrison—head of franchise development at Authority Brands—shares how scalable businesses are built through proven systems, strong leadership, and the power of franchising. From supporting new owners in the “number two business” (Doody Calls) to guiding semi-absentee entrepreneurs, Chad breaks down how following a playbook and leveraging a support network can turn even unconventional opportunities into serious success. Whether you’re exploring business ownership or looking to grow your existing operation, this episode offers practical insights on leadership, systems, and scaling the right way.

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Hector Santiesteban sits down with transformational leader Amber Vilhauer to explore the deeply personal roots behind her meteoric rise as an entrepreneur and marketing powerhouse. Amber shares how her early experiences with isolation and bullying shaped her drive to create meaningful change in the world. From selling Cutco knives at 17 to launching a multi-million dollar agency recognized on the Inc. 5000 list, Amber breaks down how true business growth starts with inner alignment. Listeners will discover the real secret to scaling a soul-aligned brand, creating Infinite Impact, and showing up authentically in both life and business.

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Michael Barbarita, founder of Next Step CFO, digs into what actually drives profit in a business. He shares how he went from thinking he 'held the keys to the business kingdom' to realizing that following the competition was a fast track to failure. They talk about why most business owners are stuck in 'I hope so' marketing, how to craft offers that customers can’t turn down, and what separates businesses that scale from those that stall. If you're tired of wondering where all your revenue went, this conversation will help you rethink your strategy.

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Logan Altman, the Chief Impact Officer at Doing Good Works, comes on to  share how Doing Good Works is using the power of for-profit business to create life-changing outcomes for young adults who have aged out of the foster care system. He dives into the challenges of scaling a mission-driven company, the impact of brand marketing in fostering social change, and how businesses can turn their existing budgets into tools for transformation.

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In this episode, Hector sits down with Nico Seedsman, a former Special Forces operator who went from running kill-capture missions to battling for his own survival. After years of pushing his body to the extreme, Nico found himself completely wrecked—crippling exhaustion, PTSD, chronic illness, and a body that was shutting down. Traditional medicine had nothing for him. Left with months to live, he took a shot on stem cells, and what happened next changed everything. Now, as the CEO of ODIN Stem Cells, he’s taking on the broken medical system and making regenerative medicine accessible for the peop...

On this episode of How to Scale a Business, Hector sits down with Raul Hernandez Ochoa, the head honcho over at Do Good Work, to talk about expanding revenue and increasing capacity without the stress that usually comes with growth. Raul breaks down the three biggest constraints that hold businesses back—leads and sales, operations and fulfillment, and leadership—so founders can diagnose what’s actually slowing them down. He shares real stories from behind the scenes, talks about hiring the right people (or machines), and explains why scaling isn’t just about getting bigger but about building the right ki...

Hector sits down with David "Ledge" Ledgerwood, a guy who’s cracked the code on turning content into closed deals. Ledge doesn’t just talk about B2B sales—he’s done it, closing $50M in enterprise deals and landing Fortune 1000 clients using podcasting as his secret weapon. They get into the strategy behind why most agencies and service businesses struggle to scale, and how the right content-to-revenue system changes everything. If you’re tired of spinning your wheels with cold outreach and content that doesn’t convert, this is the episode that’ll show you a smarter way to grow.

James Davis isn’t your typical PR guy—he’s a strategist who tells CEOs the hard truth and helps them win big. As the founder of Touchdown Strategies, he’s worked behind the scenes of some of the most high-stakes political and corporate battles, from shaping Supreme Court confirmations to crisis-managing BP’s Deepwater Horizon response. In this episode, James shares how he built a powerhouse agency, why most PR is just noise, and what it really takes to shift public opinion. If you want to learn how to cut through the BS and drive real impact, this one’s for...

Hector's chatting with Rusty Shields, the big boss at Develefy Consulting, about how awesome game-changing relationships are in business. Rusty's journey is wild - he started in opera, then switched to leadership consulting, always shaking things up! He shares why most people totally miss the mark when it comes to business relationships and how ditching those "you scratch my back, I'll scratch yours" connections for deeper ones can really skyrocket your growth. If you're tired of playing by those old-school leadership rules, Rusty's ideas might just change how you level up!

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Caroline Voaden, founder of Story Copywriting, talks about how impactful storytelling in the B2B world is. Having a background in corporate PR and reputation management, Caroline explains how she flipped the script, turning dry, product-focused messaging into compelling, customer-centered stories that drive growth. Caroline and Hector explore the common mistakes businesses make with their storytelling—or lack of it—and reveal why "storyselling" is the ultimate strategy for B2B success. If you’ve ever wondered how to make your brand unforgettable, this episode is for you!

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Hector and Aaron Hageman, a business whiz who's aced scaling companies and leading teams, have a chat. Aaron shares his journey, from selling his company to Walmart to realizing personal growth is key to success. He drops actionable advice on emotional intelligence, building systems, and investing in people to grow. It's a real and honest look at what it takes to scale a business and yourself, all while staying grounded.

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Hector sits down with Logan Speights, co-founder of Proxxy, to discuss the world of scaling service-based businesses. Logan, a self-proclaimed ops and automation enthusiast, shares how his journey from the dot-com boom to agency ownership shaped his obsession with creating seamless systems. They talk about the biggest pitfalls agency owners face, the secret sauce to scaling successfully, and why having an operating system in place is a non-negotiable for growth. Logan also offers you the tools to rethink how you approach business growth. 

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Hector sits down with Erik Huberman, CEO of Hawke Media, to peek into the mindset, strategies, and lessons behind building one of the most recognized marketing agencies today. Erik shares how discipline, clarity of vision, and a willingness to adapt have been central to Hawke Media’s growth. From internal crises to identifying market trends and leveraging data, Erik offers a look at what it takes to scale a business while staying focused on the mission. Tune in for a conversation about big-picture thinking with takeaways for any entrepreneur aiming to grow their company.

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Hector sits down with Robert Manasier, CEO of InFocus Brands, to explore the realities of scaling a business by reading market trends and removing ego from decision-making. Robert shares how failure became his greatest teacher, why execution always outweighs ideas, and how simplifying processes is the key to sustainable growth. They discuss the importance of honest feedback, calculated risks, and building teams that prioritize accountability over ego. Tune in to hear Robert explain the mindset shifts and methodologies that drive long-term success in an ever-changing market.

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Hector sits down with Jacob Kelly for a conversation about the intersection of marketing, content creation, and genuine connection with audiences. Jacob shares his experiences from growing one of the top podcasts in the world to building impactful marketing campaigns, breaking down why chasing trends often leads to hollow results. They explore the balance between art and media, the underrated power of newsletters, and how businesses can use podcasts as more than just content—they can be sales tools. Tune in to hear a fresh perspective on how brands can truly resonate with their audience.

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Hector sits down with Maresa Friedman to discuss her unique approach to helping businesses thrive. Maresa, known as the "Executive Cat Herder," shares how she handles the messy realities of entrepreneurship, cuts through the noise, and identifies the blind spots holding founders back. She explains why integrating personal and professional lives is critical, pushes back against myths around success, and tells the importance of mindset and authenticity in achieving real growth. It’s an awesome conversation about the tough questions leaders need to face and the hard truths that drive meaningful change.

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Hector welcomes Natalie Doyle Oldfield; an incredible author, coach, and speaker. Natalie shares her journey from navigating the 2008 market crash to developing a research-backed framework for building trust in business. She talks about the role of trust equity in solving common business challenges like client retention, sales slumps, and customer complaints, while breaking down her trust triangle model. Together, they explore how building trust can change organizations for the better and drive sustainable growth.

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Hector welcomes Dr. Shikha Goodwin to the show. She’s a neuroscience expert with a passion for exploring how the brain shapes resilience, decision-making, and growth. Together, they discuss the connection between brain health and entrepreneurship, breaking down ways leaders can improve focus, manage stress, and navigate challenges. Dr. Shikha shares how she went from engineering to biomedical research, explaining the science behind everyday actions like exercise, community, and mindset. Tune in to hear how to strengthen mental capacity and build a foundation for long-term success!

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Hector sits down with Georgia Vanderville to discuss her journey as she went from an accidental candle maker to a thriving entrepreneur. Georgia shares how a simple gift sparked the beginning of her candle business, the challenges she faced in scaling her vision, and the personal growth required to embrace her role as a leader. She opens up about the internal battles many entrepreneurs face, the mindset shifts that shaped her path, and the lessons she’s learned about resilience, opportunity, and creating lasting impact.

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Ross McDaniel joins the show for a follow-up conversation that takes us through his journey of building Trellis Coffee Bar. Ross shares what he experienced while moving from the digital marketing space into launching a brick-and-mortar coffee shop. Plus, lessons learned about community partnerships, navigating local permitting, and creating a space that fosters connection. Tune in to hear how local businesses can grow through strategies like social proof, visibility, and customer loyalty while keeping the focus on delivering a consistent and quality experience.

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Ben Catley takes us on a journey through the power of accountability and what it truly means to take ownership of one’s growth. Sharing his own transformation into the “Accountability Viking,” Ben dives into the struggle many entrepreneurs face with procrastination, burnout, and staying on course. He breaks down the Five Gates of Growth, revealing how each stage drives personal and business success without losing sight of mental health. You’ll get a firsthand look at how embracing accountability can shift the way you approach both work and life, challenging the common approaches to goal-setting and self-discipline.

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Hector has a conversation with Steve Cummins to dig into the challenges and strategies that define effective tech marketing. Steve shares how companies can avoid common pitfalls, get past flashy trends, and focus on what really moves the needle for their audiences. They talk about the importance of consistency, picking the right platforms, and staying true to a brand’s voice, even in a fast-changing landscape. Steve’s approach offers a straightforward, no-nonsense guide for tech companies looking to make an impact without getting lost in the noise.

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Julie Boll talks about her journey of self-discovery and growth as an entrepreneur, focusing on the emotional and psychological barriers many business owners face. She opens up about overcoming her own scarcity mindset, imposter syndrome, and the limiting beliefs that kept her from reaching her potential. Through her story, Julie explains how tools like emotional agility and self-compassion can empower entrepreneurs to break free from constraints and align with their true vision. You’ll gain insights on moving beyond fears and creating a business that truly resonates with your values and strengths.

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Tonya Eberhart shares how she went from selling vacuums door-to-door to becoming a leader in personal branding. She breaks down why your personal story is the key to standing out in today’s crowded market and explains the real difference between rebranding and refreshing. Tonya also talks about common mistakes businesses make when it comes to branding and how to avoid them. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your brand, Tonya’s insights will get you thinking about branding in a whole new way!

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Chad Brown shares his journey from building a successful media production company to facing a major leadership crisis that nearly cost him everything. He opens up about how his relentless pursuit of success strained his family and burned out his team, leading to a wake-up call that transformed the way he runs his business. Chad explains how he shifted his focus to building a people-centered organization and the lessons he learned about leadership, trust, and scaling a lean operation. His story offers valuable insights for anyone looking to balance growth with sustainable leadership. 

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In this episode of Legal Rank, host Emma Edmonds sits down with J.B. Harris, a distinguished attorney from Miami known for his impactful work in tobacco litigation and his adventurous spirit. With a legal career spanning over four decades, J.B. has been recognized as one of the Top 100 Lawyers by The National Trial Lawyers in 2020 and 2021. Beyond the courtroom, he’s trekked to Mount Everest Base Camp and hiked across the peaks of Mongolia and Yellowstone. Dive into J.B.'s unique path, his passion for justice, and the personal and professional mountains he's yet to conquer.

Jon Morrison shares his journey from struggling entrepreneur to building a scalable, successful business. He explains how focusing on customer service, finding the right niche, and delivering consistent results helped him break through the noise in a competitive market. Jon talks about the importance of understanding who you’re serving, creating a product they truly need, and delivering a "wow" experience that keeps them coming back. He also shares hard-earned lessons on what works—and what doesn’t—when it comes to scaling a business.

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In this episode of the How to Scale a Business Podcast, host Casey Haakinson welcomes April Elizabeth, owner of Innovative Commercial Capital, to discuss how her firm is revolutionizing the lending industry for small businesses. April shares her journey from high net worth banking to creating a more intentional lending platform that offers solutions tailored to businesses of all types. From working capital loans to real estate investments and franchising support, April dives into the holistic approach her firm takes to ensure long-term success for clients. Learn how April’s passion for helping businesses scale, combined with her strategic pa...

Asmâa Methqal, founder of Fire and Flow, shares how business leaders often become their own biggest obstacles to success, getting in their own way. She explains the importance of balancing drive and action with intuition and self-awareness. Asmâa also talks about how leaders can break through internal roadblocks by focusing on personal growth and fulfillment, not just external goals. Through practical insights, she shows how this shift can lead to more sustainable business growth and a deeper sense of purpose.

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Alex Nghiem breaks down why chasing small clients might be holding your business back and shows how landing mid-market and high-paying clients can make a huge difference in your profits and stability. He explains the hidden costs of working with low-budget clients and offers strategies for targeting businesses that will stick around longer and pay more. Alex also shares his own experiences, offering real-world insights on how to scale your business without getting caught in the constant churn of replacing clients. If you're ready to rethink your approach to growth, this episode is for you.

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In this episode of How to Scale a Business, host Casey Haakinson welcomes Gene Volfe, the partner and head of Growth & Scale Partners. With nearly three decades of marketing experience, Gene shares invaluable insights into demand generation and lead strategies that empower startups and established businesses alike to thrive in competitive landscapes. Discover how to craft effective growth strategies, leverage cutting-edge tools, and measure success to maximize ROI. Tune in for practical advice and inspiration to take your business to the next level!

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David Allen Tracy shares how his unexpected path—from nonprofit work and battling cancer to becoming the CEO of Northgate Marketing—shaped his unique approach to business. David talks about the importance of understanding a company's core values and story to create effective marketing strategies. He explains how subtle branding changes, like adjusting a website's layout or tweaking messaging, can have a huge impact on business growth. David also dives into the role of consumer psychology in building trust and loyalty, revealing the key to scaling a business successfully.

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In this exciting episode of the Legal Ranked podcast, host Casey Haakinson sits down with digital marketing expert Chris Moreno, owner of Wonderful Websites. Chris shares his journey from importing steam cleaners to becoming a specialist in helping attorneys dominate Google search rankings. Discover how his company blends Google Ads and SEO strategies to help law firms achieve top organic rankings, avoid hefty ad costs, and bring in valuable client leads. Chris also reveals insider tips on how attorneys can stand out online by staying active with blogs, videos, and Google reviews. Don't miss this insightful discussion packed with...

In this episode, Michelle Gifford shares how she grew her Instagram following from 18,000 to over 238,000 in just two years by focusing on strategy instead of trends or gimmicks. She breaks down how using Instagram to connect with your audience, rather than just promoting your business, can completely change the game. Michelle also gives practical tips on creating content that attracts, nurtures, and converts followers into loyal customers. If you're struggling to make Instagram work for your business, this conversation offers a clear roadmap to start seeing real results!

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In this episode of How to Scale A Business, host Casey Haakinson sits down with Dr. Frank L. Douglas, Ph.D., M.D., a renowned problem solver and innovator. Dr. Douglas shares his incredible journey from academia to the pharmaceutical industry, and his groundbreaking work in addressing systemic discrimination. As the founder of Safe Haven Dialogues, Dr. Douglas explains how reframing problems and focusing on equity and inclusion can empower individuals and transform organizations. Tune in to hear his personal stories and learn more about his mission to create a more inclusive and equitable workplace environment.

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In this episode of How to Scale a Business, host Casey Haakinson sits down with Tanya Shrivastava, co-founder and CEO of Moktality Inc. Tanya dives into the world of grant writing and strategic consulting for nonprofits, sharing how Moktality Inc. helps organizations secure funding to drive meaningful change. With over 11 years of experience, Tanya discusses the importance of client relationships, adaptability, and data-driven decision-making in the evolving nonprofit landscape. Learn how Moktality Inc. connects nonprofits with funders, navigates financial uncertainties, and drives impactful solutions through comprehensive fundraising strategies.

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