The New Rules with Alan Pentz
Welcome to The New Rules with Alan Pentz, where we help you navigate the chaos of today's world with precision. Forget the old playbook - it's toast. We’re in a new game now, and Alan Pentz is here to help you win.
Alan brings 25 years of experience working at the highest levels of business and government, from Capitol Hill to advising the federal government on cutting-edge innovation. He’s seen the old rules fall apart and knows what it takes to thrive in this brave new world.
Whether it's superpowers battling for dominance or inflation throwing everyone for a loop, Alan helps you play 4D chess while everyone else is stuck on checkers? Let’s dive in.
Beyond the Vote: Understanding Global Economic Forces Behind Election Results
November 19, 2024 • 49 MIN
Alan Pentz and Tonya Berenson discuss the 2024 election results through a global economic lens, challenging conventional political narratives and exploring the fundamental economic forces shaping voter behavior across democracies.
Smart Work, Small Teams: Building a Sustainable Business
November 12, 2024 • 47 MIN
Alan Pentz and Steven Wilkinson discuss building a sustainable business model focused on working smart rather than large, the importance of balance between work and family life, and insights into value investing and global economic shifts.
Breaking Free from Safety: How Crisis Drives Innovation
November 5, 2024 • 44 MIN
Alan Pentz and Tonya Berenson explore how societal focus on safety has led to stagnation, and how external threats and crises can drive innovation and progress, with specific focus on energy needs for AI development and the changing global economic landscape.
The Great Capital Shift: From Low Rates to Healthcare Nation
October 29, 2024 • 43 MIN
In this insightful episode, Alan Pentz speaks with Moses Sternstein about the fundamental shifts in capital markets. They explore the transition from the low-interest "finance bro" era to what Moses calls the "national nursing home" economy, examining how rising rates and demographic changes are reshaping investment strategies and capital allocation.
Confronting China's Economic Strategy: A New Global Order
October 22, 2024 • 45 MIN
Alan Pentz and Tonya Berenson explore the fundamental challenges in US-China economic relations, discussing China's state-directed capitalism, its impact on global trade, and potential US responses including capital controls and strategic realignment with allies.
Revitalizing American Manufacturing: Strategies for a New Era
October 15, 2024 • 46 MIN
In this thought-provoking episode, Alan Pentz and Dean Ball explore the challenges and opportunities facing American manufacturing. They discuss the impact of China's economic policies, the potential of AI in reshaping industries, and innovative approaches to revitalizing U.S. manufacturing capabilities.
The Sleeper Awakens: Geopolitical Shifts and Energy Challenges
October 8, 2024 • 52 MIN
In this thought-provoking episode, Alan Pentz and Tonya Berenson delve into major geopolitical shifts, discussing the end of a 40-year cycle of global stability, the challenges of energy policy, and the rapidly changing power dynamics in the Middle East.
Europe's Economic Challenges and the Future of AI
October 1, 2024 • 45 MIN
Alan and Tonya discuss Mario Draghi's report on the EU's economic challenges, exploring issues like the lack of tech innovation, productivity gaps, and potential solutions. They also delve into AI valuation concerns and the gradual impact of AI adoption on the workforce and economy.
Rethinking Energy, Politics, and Social Progress: A Deep Dive
September 24, 2024 • 53 MIN
In this thought-provoking episode, Alan and Tonya explore the complexities of renewable energy, voter distribution, and fundamental philosophical differences underlying political debates. They discuss the challenges of scaling solar energy, analyze voter clusters in the US political system, and delve into the historical roots of conservative and progressive thought.
Global Economic Shifts: China, Inflation, and Changing Investment Strategies
September 17, 2024 • 45 MIN
In this insightful episode, Alan sits down with Tonya Berenson to discuss significant shifts in global economics. They explore China's economic model, changing perspectives on free trade, the future of inflation, and how these factors are reshaping investment strategies..
Financial Mastery: Jon Morris on Maximizing Profit in Professional Services
September 10, 2024 • 37 MIN
In this insightful episode, Alan interviews Jon Morris, founder and CEO of Fiscal Advocate and former CEO of Rise Interactive. Jon shares his expertise on financial management in professional service companies, discussing key metrics, investment strategies, and the importance of data-driven decision-making for business growth and profitability.
Earned Media Mastery: Mickie Kennedy's Guide to Impactful Press Releases
September 3, 2024 • 44 MIN
In this insightful conversation, Alan interviews Mickie Kennedy, founder and CEO of eReleases, a press release distribution service for small businesses. Mickie shares his journey in the PR industry, discusses effective strategies for creating impactful press releases, and offers valuable advice for small businesses looking to gain media attention.
Building a Niche Physical Therapy Practice: Jesse Lewis on Growth, Marketing, and Culture
August 28, 2024 • 37 MIN
In this insightful conversation, Alan interviews Jesse Lewis, owner of District Performance and Physio, a cash-based physical therapy practice in Washington, D.C. Jesse shares his experience growing from a single practitioner to multiple locations, discussing marketing strategies, growth challenges, and the importance of company culture in the healthcare industry.
From Big Law to Boutique: Eric Pacifici's Journey in M&A Law
August 20, 2024 • 41 MIN
In this insightful conversation, Alan interviews Eric Pacifici, a partner at SMB Law Group specializing in small business M&A. Eric shares his expertise on current market trends, the intricacies of SBA financing, and the challenges of running a law firm focused on small business transactions.
Implementing EOS: Insights from Gabriel Muller on Business Transformation
August 13, 2024 • 34 MIN
In this enlightening conversation, Alan interviews Gabriel Muller, an EOS Worldwide implementer. Gabe shares his journey from financial services to EOS implementation, discussing the transformative power of the Entrepreneurial Operating System in businesses, the challenges of leadership team dynamics, and the path to creating self-managing companies.
Mastering Personal Branding: Insights from Legacy Builder's Founder
August 6, 2024 • 46 MIN
In this insightful conversation, Alan interviews Clifton Sellers, founder of Legacy Builder, a content marketing agency. Clifton shares his journey from corporate fundraising to building a seven-figure agency, discussing the power of personal branding, the challenges of scaling a business, and valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs in the digital marketing space.
Fueling Success: Dominick Tullo on Diesel Distribution and Family Business
July 30, 2024 • 45 MIN
In this insightful conversation, Alan interviews Dominic Tullo, a fourth-generation businessman running TNR Oil Company. Dominic shares his experiences in the diesel fuel distribution industry, discussing the evolution of his family business, the challenges of the fuel industry, and the complexities of managing a multi-generational family enterprise.
Negotiating Success: Steve Wiesner on Buying & Growing Companies
July 23, 2024 • 39 MIN
In this insightful conversation, Alan interviews Steve Wiesner, owner of Watershed Associates, a negotiations training company. Steve shares his journey from private equity to small business ownership, discussing the myths and realities of business acquisition, the challenges in the private equity industry, and valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Rethinking B2B Marketing: Shawn Busse on Culture, Recruiting, and Brand Positioning
July 16, 2024 • 49 MIN
In this insightful conversation, Alan interviews Shawn Busse, founder of Kinesis, a marketing and business strategy firm. Sean shares his journey from running a brand design shop to building a comprehensive business strategy firm. They discuss the evolution of marketing, the importance of company culture in recruitment, and innovative approaches to B2B marketing and business growth.
Revolutionizing the Ice Cream Truck: Cliff Kennedy and Frios Gourmet Pops
July 9, 2024 • 38 MIN
In this insightful conversation, Alan interviews Cliff Kennedy, founder of Frios Gourmet Pops, a rapidly growing franchise of modern ice cream trucks. Cliff shares his journey from the oil and gas industry to building a multi-million dollar popsicle empire, discussing franchise strategies, unique flavors, and the power of community-based business models.
The Future of B2B Marketing: Tom Hunt on Podcasting and Personal Branding
July 2, 2024 • 29 MIN
In this insightful conversation, Alan interviews Tom Hunt, founder of Fame, a podcast agency. Tom shares his journey from B2B marketing to building a multi-million dollar podcast production company. They discuss the evolving landscape of B2B marketing, the power of personal branding, and the strategic use of podcasts in building audience relationships.
Building a Tech-Enabled Bookkeeping Empire: Lessons from Chris Williams
June 25, 2024 • 43 MIN
In this insightful conversation, Alan interviews Chris Williams, founder of System Six, an outsourced finance service provider. Chris shares his journey from a finance background to acquiring and scaling a bookkeeping business. They discuss innovative organizational structures, the challenges of scaling professional services, and Chris's vision for expanding into a comprehensive back-office solution for small businesses.
Building an Outsourced Fulfillment Empire in the Promotional Products Industry
June 18, 2024 • 42 MIN
In this candid conversation, Alan interviews Josh Frey, founder of On Sale Promos and The Swag Coach. Josh provides a rare inside look at the promotional products industry, sharing his journey from running side hustle book clubs to building a multi-million dollar operation. They discuss innovative outsourcing models, curating virtual teams, integrating tech stacks for scaling, and Josh's vision for consolidating the fragmented distributor landscape.
Scaling a Book Club Business: Lessons from Zach Rubin's Entrepreneurial Path
June 12, 2024 • 35 MIN
In this insightful episode, Alan Pentz interviews Zach Rubin, the founder of Professional Book Club Guru. Zach shares the fascinating journey of bootstrapping and evolving his business from a simple office book club to a multi-million dollar operation. They dive deep into innovative service models, growth strategies, opportunities, and challenges along the way.
Franchising vs Expansion: Exploring Growth Strategies with Nick Muzzatti
June 5, 2024 • 48 MIN
In this insightful episode, Alan Pentz picks the brain of Nick Muzzatti, founder of Snap Entertainment - a thriving arcade game rental company in the DMV area. They dive deep into Nick's entrepreneurial journey, dissecting strategies for sustainable growth beyond the $1 million mark. The discussion covers valuable lessons from surviving the pandemic, analyzing sensible expansion into new markets like Philadelphia, evaluating franchising models, and continuously adapting Nick's role as the visionary leader.
Scaling Your Business with Simple Numbers: Insights from Greg Crabtree
May 28, 2024 • 52 MIN
In this insightful episode, small business mentor Alan Pentz sits down with Greg Crabtree, the accounting expert renowned for his "simple numbers" approach. Greg shares his groundbreaking method for analyzing labor efficiency to drive profitability and achieve exceptional returns on invested capital.
Maximizing Returns and Minimizing Risk as a Limited Partner with Aleksey Chernobelskiy
May 21, 2024 • 43 MIN
In this insightful episode of the Small Business Mentor podcast, Alan Pentz is joined by Aleksey Chernobelskiy, an expert in advising limited partners on private market investments, primarily in real estate syndications. Aleksey draws from his extensive experience underwriting deals at Store Capital and his own entrepreneurial journey to provide valuable tips for evaluating investment opportunities, understanding common risks, and navigating challenges like capital calls.
Defining and Tracking Outputs: The Key to Employee Performance with John Seiffer
May 14, 2024 • 46 MIN
In this episode of the Small Business Mentor podcast, Alan Pentz is joined by John Seiffer, known as @BetterCEO on Twitter. John is a CEO coach and author of the book "Output Thinking". Join them as they discuss John's framework for defining and tracking employee outputs to boost productivity and scale a business. They also dive into John's Stages checklist model for analyzing a company's growth phase.
The Power of Niche BPO: How Ankit Patel is Disrupting the Optometry Industry
May 8, 2024 • 55 MIN
In this episode of The Small Business Mentor, host Alan Pentz interviews Ankit Patel, owner of optometry practices and founder of My Business Care Team, a vertical-specific BPO for the optometry industry. Ankit shares his journey acquiring and scaling practices, the KPIs that matter most in optometry, and how he leveraged that industry knowledge to build a tech-enabled BPO that's disrupting back office management.
Mastering the 5 Phases of Business Growth: Insights from John Wilson of Wilson Companies
April 30, 2024 • 59 MIN
In this episode of The Small Business Mentor, host Alan Pentz interviews John Wilson, owner of Wilson Companies, a high-growth home services business. They discuss John's journey growing the company 25X to $26M in 8 years through acquisitions and organic growth, the pros and cons of various home services business models, and how he's building moats in marketing and training to reach his goal of $100M.
Cracking the Code on Profitable Niche Media with Loren Feldman
April 23, 2024 • 43 MIN
In this episode of the Small Business Mentor podcast, host Alan Pentz turns the tables and interviews the interviewer - Lauren Feldman, a long-time business journalist who has transitioned into entrepreneurship with his niche media company 21 Hats. Lauren shares his journey in the shifting media landscape, the genesis and evolution of 21 Hats, and his learnings and challenges in monetizing a targeted media property for business owners and entrepreneurs.
Bankruptcy as a Tool: Insights from Hunter Durham's Entrepreneurial Journey
April 16, 2024 • 37 MIN
In this episode of the Small Business Mentor podcast, Alan Pentz is joined by Hunter Durham, former owner of Impact Industry. Hunter shares his rollercoaster entrepreneurial journey of rapidly acquiring businesses, the challenges that led to bankruptcy, and the hard lessons he learned along the way.
Boosting Productivity and Reducing Costs: The Role of Digital Ops in Small Businesses with Michael Greenberg
April 9, 2024 • 42 MIN
In this episode of the Small Business Mentor podcast, Alan Pentz is joined by Michael Greenberg, an expert on digital operations. Join them as they discuss the concept of digital operations and its importance for small businesses, highlighting the benefits of using tools, global talent, and automation to streamline processes, lower costs, and increase productivity.
From Burnout to Success: Scaling a Healthy Therapy Practice with Julie Lopez
April 2, 2024 • 36 MIN
In this episode of the Small Business Mentor podcast, Alan Pentz is joined by Julie Lopez, a keynote speaker and the Founder of Viva Partnership, a therapy practice that uses non-talk therapy to promote inner healing. Join them as they explore the challenges faced by therapists expanding their practices and the importance of business education.
Franchising: The Best Business Model with Brian Beers
March 26, 2024 • 45 MIN
In this episode of the Small Business Mentor podcast, Alan Pentz is joined by franchise scaling expert Brian Beers. Join them as they explore franchising, examining why it’s one of the best business models, how to know if it’s right for you, and how new franchisees can get started.
Is it Time to Sell? Breaking Down the Broker Business with Clint Fiore
March 19, 2024 • 49 MIN
In this episode of the Small Business Mentor podcast, Alan Pentz is joined by Clint Fiore, President of Bison Business. Join them as they break down business brokerage, touching on how to find your first clients, what exactly makes a business sellable, and the disparity between the number of buyers and sellers around.
Book Publishing in the Digital Age (Behind the Scenes) with Eric Jorgenson
March 12, 2024 • 49 MIN
In this episode of the Small Business Mentor podcast, Alan Pentz is joined by author Eric Jorgenson. Join them as they break down the benefits of releasing books and building your brand through them, why they are considered a different platform for your voice than blogs or podcasts, and how addictive the writing process is.
Cracking the Growth Code: Behind Business Acquisitions with Jay Broyer
March 5, 2024 • 42 MIN
In this episode of the Small Business Mentor podcast, Alan Pentz is joined by Jay Broyer, Co-Owner of St Cyr’s Pool and Spa. Join them as they explore the challenges that come through business growth and acquisitions, from generating demand and increasing profitability to the importance of efficient management.
Overcoming Networking Hurdles to Grow Your Small Business with Dylan Chatterjee
February 27, 2024 • 46 MIN
In this episode of the Small Business Mentor podcast, Alan Pentz is joined by Dylan Chatterjee, Partner at Onbench. Join them as they discuss challenges and strategies for growing a small business, including how to find new leads when you’ve exhausted your existing network, knowing when to sell and buy, and how to learn from people ahead of you in the journey.
When Risk Pays Off: Inside Group Captives and LP Investing with Sam Bacon of Green Circle Demolition
February 20, 2024 • 43 MIN
In this episode of the Small Business Mentor podcast, Alan Pentz is joined by Sam Bacon, President of Green Circle Demolition. Join them as they explore entrepreneurship in the construction industry, digging into the pros and cons of joining group captives, what limited partner investing is really like, and how to manage inconsistent and unsteady revenue streams and contracts.
Modern Market Research & Growth Communities: How Social is Changing SMB with Nikolas Hulewsky
February 13, 2024 • 46 MIN
In this episode of the Small Business Mentor podcast, Alan Pentz is joined by Nikolas Hulewsky, Partner of CoFounders. They share advice on buying your first business and explore how you can leverage technology, data, and social media for growth and success.
Climbing the Financial Ladder: Patrick Dichter's Blueprint for Small Business Triumph
February 6, 2024 • 23 MIN
In this episode of the Small Business Mentor podcast, Alan Pentz is joined by Patrick Dichter, Owner of Appletree Business Services. They explore how small businesses can upgrade their accounting practices as well as the challenges of company acquisition.
Challenges and Growth Opportunities for Small Businesses with Malcolm Marshall, CEO of POOL-ology
January 30, 2024 • 41 MIN
In this episode of the Small Business Mentor podcast, Alan Pentz is joined by Malcolm Marshall, CEO and Owner of POOL-ology. They discuss the challenges and growth opportunities for POOL-ology, as well as delve into cash flow challenges, marketing strategies, and the importance of retaining top talent. Discover how Pool plans to revamp their marketing, improve customer experience, and achieve their growth targets.
From Pokemon Cards to Gyms: Ujwal Velagapudi’s Journey to Serial Acquisition Entrepreneur
January 23, 2024 • 46 MIN
In this episode of the Small Business Mentor podcast, Alan Pentz is joined by Ujwal Velagapudi, a serial acquisition entrepreneur. They explore Ujwal’s journey from selling Pokemon cards in high school to completing fourteen acquisitions. Tune in to discover his unique approach to buying businesses, his thoughts on valuations, and his advice for budding entrepreneurs.
Small Business Strategies and Market Dynamics with Jon Matzner, President at Lazy Leverage
January 16, 2024 • 47 MIN
In this episode of the Small Business Mentor podcast, Alan Pentz is joined by John Matzner, President at Lazy Leverage. They delve into using global resources efficiently, cautioning against over-leveraging with debt, the importance of humility and adaptability in business, and the power of output thinking. They explore the challenges of entering different industries and highlight the value of building solid systems, particularly in using offshore talent effectively. Additionally, they discuss the importance of maintaining authenticity and integrity in business dealings.
Trailer
January 14, 2024 • 1 MIN
Join us on The Small Business Mentor Podcast, where we chart the course through the formidable "Black Holes" of business—those revenue milestones that often ensnare ambitious entrepreneurs. Hosted by Alan Pentz, this podcast demystifies the leaps from $1m to $30m in revenue with insights from those who’ve navigated these treacherous waters. Whether you’re aiming to break past your Ceiling of Brute Force or professionalize your growing venture, our conversations light the path to your business's next quantum leap.