The Jon Schultz Podcast: The Myth of Overnight Success
The Jon Schultz Podcast unpacks the lessons from industry leaders who refused to quit. Success is a tightrope. Everyone who’s reached the top of their game has wobbled on the way up. Those losses propelled them to the bigger and better places they are today. In a curious way, it’s the upsets that lay the foundation for winning. Our guests dig into their stories; we talk about the challenges they’ve overcome, what they learned, and how they kept ongoing.
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What turns a kid from Brooklyn into a leader who builds and rebuilds big businesses, then starts over again by choice? Meet Mike Tepedino, Founder and Managing Partner of Blue Light Capital, whose path runs from six gritty years in loan workouts on the “what can go wrong” side of real estate became the foundation for everything that followed.
We get into the leap to brokerage, the Chinese-restaurant meeting that set up HFF’s rise, and the 2019 sale to JLL for about $2 billion, where scale brought new tools and reach but also a fresh look at purpose and timing...
Resilience, Risk & Reinvention – Lessons from Michael Johnson’s Startup Story
What if one phone call could completely change the trajectory of your life? In this episode, I sit down with Michael Johnson, a scientist turned entrepreneur, president of the New Jersey Innovation Institute, and now author of 1% Dad.
His story is one of relentless work ethic, fearless curiosity, and the ability to seize opportunity when it knocks, even if you don’t recognize it at first. From a childhood shaped by devoted parents and early struggles in school and sports, Michael shares how discovering the power of hard work in high school football set him on...
Failing Forward: How Setbacks Paved the Way for a University President
What happens when you put a university president who's weathered pandemics, launched massive campaigns, and chairs the Bruce Springsteen Archives in a room with great questions? Pure gold.
In this episode, I sit down with Patrick Leahy, President of Monmouth University, for one of those conversations that reminds you why leadership stories matter.
Patrick takes us through his incredible journey from being the youngest of six kids outside Baltimore to running a $200 million university. We dive into the mentor who changed everything by pushing him to apply to Georgetown (spoiler: he thought he'd never get in), t...
Building More Than Buildings: Ed Russo on Vision, Risk, and Legacy
Imagine putting every dollar you've saved on the line for your very first business deal at just 24 years old. Could you handle that pressure? Ed Russo did, and it turned out to be the best decision he ever made.
On this episode of my podcast, I’m with Ed Russo, my good friend and CEO of Russo Development, one of New Jersey's top real estate firms. Ed shares behind-the-scenes stories packed with valuable lessons, starting with the unexpected ways childhood chores shaped his business mindset.
Ed talks about how Russo Development accidentally discovered the huge po...
Why “Every Day Sucks” Became Bill Greenblatt’s Mantra
If you’ve ever felt like building a business is one never-ending battle, you’re not alone. Bill Greenblatt, a pioneer in the background screening industry, gets it. He built a company from a paper route mentality into a global giant—and every step of the way, something went wrong.
In this episode, Bill and I talk about what it really takes to succeed. The setbacks. The stress. The deals that almost fell apart. The moments where quitting would’ve been easier. And yet, through it all, he kept going. We get into his wild journey—...
How Christian Giordano Rebuilt Architecture with Innovation
How does someone go from humble beginnings to shaping the future of architecture? In this episode of my podcast, I talk with Christian Giordano, the president and co-owner of Mancini Duffy, a firm that’s worked with Netflix, Disney, HBO, and other global brands. Christian’s achievements are nothing short of remarkable.
Christian shares how his struggles with dyslexia and learning difficulties as a child shaped his work ethic and drive to succeed. Encouraged by parents who never doubted his potential, Christian worked harder than most, eventually earning degrees in architecture and overcoming every obstacle in h...
Small Town Dreamer to Real Estate Visionary - Simon Ziff
What does it take to go from a small-town kid with big dreams to running a firm that’s handled over $100 billion in real estate deals? Find out as I sit down with Simon Ziff, president of Ackman-Ziff Real Estate Group.
Simon’s story isn’t just about success; it’s about the hustle, the relationships, and the decisions that shaped a career spanning decades. From mastering the art of building trust on the golf course as a kid to navigating billion-dollar real estate deals, Simon shares how he turned curiosity and persistence into a lifelong advantage.
From Sneaker-head to Luxury Brand: The John Buscemi Story
What drives a kid from Long Island to turn his sneaker obsession into a global luxury brand? In this episode, I sit down with Jon Buscemi, the creative mind who turned his love for sneakers and street culture into iconic brands that push the limits of style.
Jon opens up about his unique path—from customizing sneakers as a kid to working on Wall Street to fund his sneaker obsession and then breaking into the high-end sneaker market with bold designs like the Buscemi 100mm, known for its flashy details and signature gold lock.
Turning Grilled Cheese into Gold: How Stephen Cusato Cooked Up a Hit Show
In this episode, I chat with Stephen Cusato, the creative mind behind "Not Another Cooking Show." Stephen shares his story about how his love for cooking started early, inspired by watching cooking shows and working his first job in a kitchen. His journey took him from running a food truck to becoming a popular YouTub influencer with millions of followers, teaching people how to cook in a fun and simple way.
Stephen opens up about his early struggles, including being dyslexic and feeling out of place in traditional school environments. These difficulties helped him develop...
The Power of Presence: Why Showing Up Matters in Business With Kim Taikina of Onyx Equities
This episode marks a significant milestone: Kimberly Taikina's 23 years at Onyx Equities.
Kimberly opens up about her journey from her initial role to becoming pivotal in managing our operations. She reflects on the early days, the evolution of her responsibilities, and how she has influenced our company culture.
Throughout the discussion, Kimberly underscores the profound impact of her upbringing, rooted in strong family values and a steadfast work ethic, on her professional life. She illustrates how these principles have guided her through various challenges and opportunities within the company.
We e...
Winning Cultures: What Business and Sports Taught Doug Cifu
In this episode, I had a great conversation with my good friend and golf buddy, Doug Cifu, CEO of Virtu Financial and co-owner of the Florida Panthers.
Doug's journey from a hardworking kid in Syosset, Long Island, to a successful lawyer and eventually an entrepreneur is nothing short of inspiring. We dive deep into his experiences, from his early days landscaping and working at Carvel to his 18-year tenure at a prestigious law firm and, finally, his leap into the world of high-frequency trading and sports team ownership.
Doug shares the...
Acai, Authenticity, and Ambition: Robert Giuliani’s Playa Bowls Journey
In this episode, I sit down with Rob Giuliani, the visionary co-founder behind Playa Bowls. Rob's story is a masterclass in entrepreneurship, revealing how a small idea sparked on the Jersey Shore evolved into a nationwide brand with over 280 locations.
We explore the foundational values Rob brought from his military background—like precision and perseverance—and how these have been key to Playa Bowls' growth.
Rob opens up about the early days of Playa Bowls, sharing how he and his co-founder Abby Taylor turned a humble cart into a cult favorite despite the challenges and d...
Scaling the Summit of Success with Borko Milosev CEO of Post Road Management
Join me on this captivating episode of my podcast, where I sit down with the dynamic Borko Milosev, CEO of Post Road Management, LLC. From his early days as a determined student from Serbia to becoming a prominent real estate entrepreneur and triathlete, Borko shares the trials and triumphs of his career.
Learn about his disciplined approach to business during the economic downturns, his strategic shift from single-family homes to multifamily units, and how he scaled his operations to manage thousands of properties. Borko reflects on the challenges and triumphs of navigating market...
From Bronx to Billions:Leon Cooperman's Humble Success Story
In this captivating episode, Leon Cooperman, a veteran in investment and philanthropy, shares the intriguing story of his professional life. From his early days at Goldman Sachs to founding Omega Advisors and later managing his wealth through a family office, Lee provides a comprehensive overview of his journey.
Throughout the episode, Leon shares the pillars of his success, focusing on the blend of hard work, good fortune, and a keen sense of intuition. His stories not only highlight his professional milestones but also shed light on the wisdom he's gathered along the way.
...
From Theater to Trading Floors: Samara Cohen’s Journey to BlackRock Leadership
Join me on this week's insightful episode of the podcast as we dive deep into the world of finance and leadership with the remarkable Samara Cohen, Chief Investment Officer of ETF and Index Investments at BlackRock. Managing over $6.6 trillion of assets, Samara offers a wealth of insights from her remarkable near three-decade career at the forefront of finance, highlighting the profound impact of mentorship and the interplay between resilience and success.
Samara shares her journey through the worlds of finance, economics, and theater—a blend that has uniquely shaped her approach to le...
Jersey Grit: How Fred Voccola's Roots Fueled His Relentless Drive
Tune in to the latest episode of my podcast, where we dive deep into the stories behind the success.In this episode, I'm thrilled to host Fred Voccola, the dynamic CEO of Kaseya, who has transformed the IT management and security software industry. From an annual revenue of $85 million to over a billion, Fred shares how Kaseya has expanded through strategic acquisitions and innovative thinking, growing to employ 4,800 people.
Fred opens up about the highs and lows of his journey, discussing the critical pivots and innovative steps that helped navigate his success through...
Second Chances - How Daniel Dart Rewrote His Future
Step into a story of transformation and tenacity with Daniel Dart, whose life has taken turns worthy of a Hollywood script.
Once a member of a rising punk rock band, Daniel faced his share of dark times, from battling legal issues to confronting personal demons. But rather than let these challenges spell his end, they marked the beginning of an astonishing metamorphosis.
In this captivating episode, we unravel the story of how a troubled youth with a knack for music turned his life around to spearhead Rock Yard V...
🍕The Rise of "How ya Dough'n" Pizza with Founder and CEO Garett Goodman🍕💥
Meet Garett Goodman, the visionary founder behind the sensational pizza brand "How Ya Dough'n."
Born out of a pandemic hobby and fueled by an unyielding entrepreneurial spirit, Garett shares the inception story of his unique pizza venture, which began with a Kickstarter-funded pizza oven and a simple yet passionate idea to create something remarkable.
Alongside his incredibly supportive wife, Gabby, in Boca Raton, they turned a simple act of making pizzas for friends and family into a thriving business that challenges conventional pizza-making with innovative recipes and a commitment to quality. From the humble beginnings in...
📱Redefining Retail in the Digital Age ft. Sowmyanarayan Sampath EVP & CEO @VerizonConsumer
Explore Verizon Consumer Group's transformative world as we examine the strategic vision and leadership of executive vice president and CEO Sowmyanarayan Sampath.
From his humble beginnings in Kolkata, India, Sampath's journey is a testament to the values of education, family, and respect, which have fueled his rise to the top echelons of Verizon. He shares the bold moves and strategic decisions that revitalized Verizon's consumer division, significantly enhancing customer satisfaction and driving growth.
Sampath candidly discusses the challenges and strategies behind Verizon Consumer's remarkable turnaround, emphasizing the importance of leadership, agility, and returning to fundamental principles in d...
Building Beyond Buildings with Bess Freedman CEO of Brown Harris Stevens
Dive deep into the world of real estate and personal growth with the dynamic and inspiring Bess Freedman, CEO of Brown Harris Stevens. Known for her sharp intellect, compassionate leadership, and unwavering dedication to excellence, Bess shares her remarkable journey from a young girl inspired by the power of advocacy and justice to leading one of the most prestigious real estate firms in the United States.
From her early experiences of connecting with neighbors and learning the value of love and generosity from her parents to her days as a determined lawyer fighting for justice, and eventually stepping into t...
Leadership, Learning, and Legacy: Inside the Mind of EVP of Commercial Banking TD Bank Chris Giamo
In this episode, we welcome Chris Giammo, the Executive Vice President of TD Bank Group and Head of Commercial Banking. Chris shares his remarkable journey from his humble beginnings in North Jersey, through the pivotal moments that shaped his career in banking, to his current role leading TD Bank's commercial banking ventures across the United States. Throughout the episode, Chris offers insights into his leadership philosophy, emphasizing the importance of hard work, integrity, and the ability to embrace failure as a stepping stone to success. He recounts his early years of manual labor, which instilled in him a strong work...
Lighting Up the Future with Sandy Petrocelli Jr. CEO of Allan Briteway Electrical Contractors Inc.
Join Sandy Petrocelli Jr., the visionary CEO of Allan Briteway Electrical Contractors, Inc. Electrical Contractors, as he shares his experiences and the valuable lessons learned from transitioning from a sports-loving youngster in Brooklyn, New York, to leading a major player in the electrical contracting industry. Sandy opens up about the early days of his career, his pivotal move to New Jersey, and his educational path through St. John's University and Fordham University, laying the foundation for his success. Reflecting on his professional life, Sandy recounts the challenges and opportunities that led him to take the helm of Allan Briteway Electrical Co...
Beyond the Sole with Maeve Wang CEO and Founder of Iambic Footwear
In this captivating episode, we unfold the extraordinary journey of Maeve Wang, the visionary founder behind Iambic, a company that has daringly shifted from its software origins to pioneer the future of footwear with its custom-fit shoe innovation, powered by AI. Maeve's story is not just about creating a groundbreaking product; it's a deeply personal tale of ambition, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of a dream that challenges the status quo of an entire industry. From her early days, shaped by the legacy of her refugee parents, through the transformative experiences of mentorship and education, Maeve's path is a striking e...
Grit, Grace, and Gratitude: The Inspiring Tale of Mary Ansell and Open Heart Yoga
Get ready to be inspired! In this captivating episode, we dive into the incredible story of Mary Ansell, founder of Open Heart Yoga, and her journey from dealing with scoliosis to becoming a visionary who has reshaped her community's wellness landscape is nothing short of awe-inspiring. As a young girl, Mary was diagnosed with scoliosis at age 12 and had to wear a brace that was not only challenging but also brought out her remarkable blend of grit and grace. This experience, however, set the stage for her eventual love affair with yoga, which offered her physical relief and a profound...
From Model to Industry Maverick - Beyond The Frame with Ray Brown
Ray Brown, a self-made entrepreneur and visionary, takes us on a journey through his remarkable life, from his early days as a determined hustler to becoming the founder and driving force behind Ray Brown Represents, an internationally acclaimed creative agency that has reshaped the visual landscape since its inception in 1994. Brown's journey began in a challenging environment, growing up in a neighborhood where hustle was a way of life. Fueled by a desire to succeed and inspired by his father's athletic prowess, he embarked on a journey of entrepreneurship from a young age. With determination, he founded his own lawn...
Luis Massiani: Building Trust, Scaling Success
Luis Massiani's remarkable journey is a symphony of diverse experiences, unwavering determination, and a strong foundation that laid the groundwork for his ascent in the world of finance. Born in Caracas, Venezuela, his childhood was a fusion of cultures and languages, woven together by his formative years oscillating between his South American homeland and Walton Beach, Florida. This multicultural upbringing not only broadened his worldview but also nurtured adaptability and a global outlook—traits that would later become pillars of his success. Raised in a bilingual household, Luis wasn't just a product of two locations; he embodied two cultures. The infl...
Chris Riccobono: Shaping Success One Stitch at a Time
Succeeding in such a saturated and competitive industry requires more than just a good product; it needs a compelling story that resonates with consumers. Chris Riccobono's journey to success has been marked by tenacity and the ability to spot opportunities where others might see challenges. He is never content with merely following the beaten path; instead, he thrives on disruption and change. Chris Riccobono, a dynamic entrepreneur and visionary, has embarked on a remarkable journey from his humble upbringing to becoming a successful figure in the world of fashion and entrepreneurship. Hailing from a background that values hard work and d...
Ken Rohl: Building More Than a Brand, Building a Legacy
From suburban roots to an industry magnate, Ken Rohl's journey is aninspiring tapestry of determination and entrepreneurial flair. From his humble beginnings, where he embraced an outlook of perpetual learning and sought purpose in life as a young boy, to his immense success in the industry, his story is a testament to unwavering determination. His early years, raised in an environment that championed both tenacity and ambition, were foundational to his entrepreneurial spirit. With a father who believed in self-reliance and instilled a work ethic in him and a mother who nurtured a can-do attitude, Ken's path to success was...
Jenny Jing Zhu: A Tale of Grit, Growth, and Glory
Jenny Jing Zhu, the founder and CEO of Lush Décor and Triangle Home Fashions, is a remarkable entrepreneur who has achieved great success despite facing numerous challenges throughout her journey. Jenny's story begins in a remote village in China, where she grew up in rustic conditions without electricity or modern comforts. Despite these hardships, she exhibited determination and resourcefulness from an early age. At just six years old, she joined adults in manual labor to earn money for a treat she desired, showcasing her drive for financial independence. Jenny's ambition led her to pursue a different path from her mo...
Vic Rallo - A Journey Through Food, Business, and Hard Work
In this episode of the podcast, we dive into the inspiring journey of Vic Rallo, a renowned chef, restaurant owner, television personality, and author. Vic's love for food and unwavering work ethic has guided him through various roles in the culinary world, all while building an empire of successful restaurants. Vic was immersed in the restaurant business from a young age as his parents opened Molly's Fish Market in New Jersey. He vividly recalls butlering orders during a soft opening with his brother, which opened his eyes to the world of hospitality. Despite his parents' initial hopes for him to...
Wei Li - Become Replaceable and Elevate Others
In this episode, we dive into the intriguing journey of Wei Li, who currently holds the prestigious role of Global Chief Investment Strategist at BlackRock, a powerhouse in the investment world. Wei's story is a testament to the power of adaptability and perseverance. Born in the little-known city of Chongqing, China, Wei Li's parents, both teachers, exemplified the courage to embrace change as they moved from their steady life in the heart of China to the vibrant coastal region. This early exposure to risk-taking and transformation left a lasting impact on Wei. Wei's upbringing shifted as she followed her parents...
Mike Rabil: Building a Brand, One Goal at a Time
Meet Mike Rabil, the co-founder and CEO of the Premier Lacrosse League (PLL), a groundbreaking sports league that has revitalized the sport of lacrosse in North America. With his brother Paul, a legendary lacrosse player, Mike embarked on a remarkable journey that led to the creation of the PLL. The league, founded in 2018, aimed to bring a new energy to the sport by traveling to major cities and showcasing the incredible talents of lacrosse players through a 14-week regular season. Mike's upbringing played a significant role in shaping his entrepreneurial spirit. As the son of a Lebanese father, he grew...
Eric Gertler: Learning in Motion and the Lifelong Pursuit of Knowledge
Welcome to the John Schultz podcast! In today's episode, we kick off season two with our special guest, Mr. Eric Gertler, the current Chairman, Executive Chairman, and CEO of US News and World Report. Eric passionately discusses the company's dedication to objective journalism and the significance of rankings in empowering consumers' informed decisions while upholding trust and ethical principles in journalism. Eric's illustrious career includes impactful public service work in New York City and New York State, emphasizing the role of government and leadership during crises like COVID-19. Raised in Montreal, Canada, Eric's diverse upbringing influenced his worldview, shaped by...
Hustling Your Way to CEO with Rich Daly
Rich Daly is the executive chairman of Broadridge Financial Solutions, a global fintech company that is part of the S&P 500 index. He was named the 2019 NACD Director, SHIP 100, which recognizes influential individuals in the boardroom and corporate governance. Additionally, he serves as the chair of the SIFMA Foundation, a financial literacy program benefiting 600,000 students annually through a simulated stock market game. Daly's journey to success began in a working-class area of Queens, where he displayed his ambitious nature from a young age. He started hustling early on, taking up odd jobs like mowing lawns and cleaning gardens. At just...
The Fortitude to Keep Moving Forward: The Story of Bob Knakal's Career in Real Estate
Life is filled with twists and turns that can sometimes surprise you and lead you into a life-defining career. Bob Knakal has been a force to be reckoned with in real estate. He has been selling investment properties in New York since 1984 and has been personally responsible for the sale of over 2,000 buildings and counting, giving him the title of highest total ever for a single broker in New York. But did you know that real estate was a job he stumbled upon? Growing up in a small town in New Jersey, Bob was always an athlete at heart. He pl...
Salim Ramji: From Small Town Roots to Global Finance
Salim Ramji has had an impressive career in the finance industry, with more than twenty years of experience. He is widely respected as a leader in the investment management world and is known for his expertise in exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and index investments. At the young age of nine, Salim dreamt of becoming part of a professional sports team - specifically, to become a hockey goalie. Despite his enthusiasm for his dream, he later learned he was never going to be able to go to the next level with the sport, and so when his hockey coach pointed out that...
Brian Ansell: See the big picture on both sides and find the common ground
Growing up in a family of attorneys that debated over the dinner table, Brian Ansell became accustomed to speaking up to be heard. His interest in law stemmed from a desire to help others and the realization that he had witnessed this firsthand through his family, particularly his father and uncles, as well as other attorneys in his family's social circle.
As a child, he had a shy personality, but as he grew older, he challenged himself to overcome his apprehension about being in public and commanding a room. With hard work and perseverance, he graduated law school and...
Perseverance Personified: Playing the Part with Rudy Ruettiger
Growing up, many of us found inspiration in the 1993 film "Rudy" and its portrayal of unwavering perseverance. However, the true story of Rudy Ruettiger, the man who served as the film's inspiration, is even more motivating. Rudy's struggles in making the movie, from getting his story out to seeing the film through to completion, are far more inspiring than the finished product.
Rudy grew up in a large family and idolized his hardworking father, who worked three jobs to support his family of fourteen children. Seeing the sense of pride and hope his father felt each time Notre Dame...
Insights on Innovation from Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) Kathi Vidal
Show notes: US Patent and Trademark Office: https://www.uspto.gov/Director's Blog: https://www.uspto.gov/about-us/directors-blog-latest-uspto-leadershipLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathividal/
Not every seven-year-old reads case law, but Kathi Vidal, Director of the US Patent and Trademark Office, did that on library visits. But her love for science pushed her toward an engineering career. However, her passion for digging deep into subjects and learning new things eventually turned her towards the law profession, where her hands-on scientific background became an asset as an Intellectual Property lawyer.
Kathi's drive to continually learn and a willingness...
Ken Traub On Transforming Chaos Into a Thriving Business
Show Notes: Connect with Ken Traub on LinkedInKen Traub on Twitter We end up in things that we're good at but not necessarily what our plan was for the future. That reflects the journey of Ken Traub, whose aptitude for tackling challenging concepts initially had his family pointing him into a medical career. Instead, his roundabout path led to business and entrepreneurship. Today he's the founder of Delta Value Group, but getting there hasn't been a breeze. Microsoft crushing his Voiceover IP startup is just the start of the chaos Ken has experienced. From uncovering fraud at a 200-year-old company...
