Built from Scratch: Real Stories of Risk, Failure, and Reinvention

5 Episodes
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By: Donald Dunn

Built From Scratch is a storytelling podcast focused on the real journeys behind building businesses, projects, and ideas from the ground up. Each episode features honest conversations with founders, creators, and builders who started with little more than an idea and the willingness to take risks. The show explores what actually happens behind the scenes — failures, hard decisions, setbacks, lessons learned, and the long road to creating something meaningful. Built From Scratch is for listeners interested in entrepreneurship, creativity, and the realities of building something over time — without hype, shortcuts, or overnight success stories.

Navigating Entrepreneurial Challenges: Insights from Chris Sheran
#2
Today at 5:00 AM

Chris Sheran, an accomplished entrepreneur and coach, joins us to illuminate the multifaceted journey of entrepreneurship, underscoring the essential tenets of resilience and mentorship. With a rich tapestry of experiences spanning four decades, nine businesses, and personal battles against adversity, including cancer, Chris epitomizes the notion that success is often intertwined with struggle. He emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces for entrepreneurs to share their challenges candidly, thereby fostering genuine connections and learning opportunities among peers. Through his initiative, Bootstraps and Battle Scars, he dedicates himself to guiding aspiring business owners, helping them navigate the complexities of their...


Accessibility as a Competitive Advantage: Lessons from Maxwell Ivy
#1
02/03/2026

Maxwell Ivy, renowned as the Blind Blogger, joins us to elucidate the paramount importance of accessibility within the digital landscape. In our dialogue, we delve into his transformative journey, which began as a carnival owner and evolved into a distinguished advocate for inclusivity, highlighting how individuals and businesses can derive tangible benefits from embracing accessibility. Maxwell eloquently articulates that accessibility is not merely a compliance issue; rather, it is a competitive advantage that enhances user experience and fosters innovation. His insights challenge preconceived notions surrounding the necessity of accessibility, arguing that it serves as a crucial element in fostering...


Understanding Socialism: A Comprehensive Analysis of Its Failures - History Told Forward: The Stories That Shape Who We Are
02/03/2026

The discourse presented in this podcast meticulously examines the myriad complexities surrounding socialism, with a particular focus on its inherent failures. I engage in a profound dialogue with our esteemed guest, Doug Cardell, an expert in economic policy, who elucidates the fundamental reasons socialism often falters in practice, despite its theoretical allure. Drawing upon extensive research and historical case studies, we explore the critical role of human behavior, incentives, and the price system—elements frequently overlooked in contemporary economic discussions. Cardell’s insights challenge the popular misconceptions surrounding socialism, advocating for a clear understanding of its implications and consequences in b...


Unveiling the Essence of Leadership: Insights from Dr. Grow - The Real Leadership Brief
01/29/2026

The principal focus of our discourse centers on the intricate dynamics of leadership, particularly the distinguishing characteristics that separate exceptional managers from those deemed ineffective. Dr. AP Grow, a seasoned expert in leadership with nearly three decades of experience, elucidates the pervasive issue of poor management and the critical elements that elite leaders embody: competence, communication, and care. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, we explore how the challenges of managing difficult personalities, especially those in leadership positions, can be navigated with grace and efficacy. Dr. Grow’s seminal work, "Perfect Bosture," serves as a practical guide, offering a fr...


Trailer: Built From Scratch
01/04/2026

Built From Scratch is a conversational podcast focused on entrepreneurship and small business through real-world experience.

Each episode features founders and business owners sharing their journey—how they started, the challenges they faced, the mistakes they made, and the lessons learned along the way. Rather than offering formulas or hype, the show centers on honest stories about building something piece by piece.


Episodes are audio-only and run approximately thirty to forty-five minutes, designed for thoughtful discussion and practical reflection.


Built From Scratch is part of the Barracks Me...