Print is far from dead. In this episode, host Pat Rodgers sits down with Blaine Yoquelet, the dynamic owner of Fort Wayne Printing, to explore the evolution of this 120-year-old family business into a modern print powerhouse. Blaine discusses his journey of acquiring the company, the pivotal role of succession planning, and how he’s navigating the shift between digital and traditional print media.

You'll learn how Fort Wayne Printing blends old-school trust with new-age strategies, utilizing QR codes for tracking and leveraging joint ventures to enhance flexibility and reach. Blaine also shares insights on the unique trustworthiness of print in today’s digital world.

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Connect with Pat Rodgers on LinkedIn
Learn more about RISE Commercial District Website | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn

Build Boldly is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

For Justin Ressler, military precision translated into entrepreneurial success. In this episode of Build Boldly, host Pat Rodgers sits down with Justin, founder of Lite Comm, a veteran-owned business specializing in FAA lighting compliance within the telecom industry. Justin shares how the principles of discipline and relationship-building learned in service have been pivotal in navigating the complex world of telecom compliance and insurance.

Justin talks through the growth trajectory of Lite Comm, from overcoming imposter syndrome to mastering the art of strategic hiring and diversification. He emphasizes the importance of a robust support system, both professional and personal, and the critical role of training and compliance in ensuring the safety and efficiency of telecom operations.

Tune in to learn from Justin's journey of translating military precision into entrepreneurial success and discover how building the right team and embracing continuous learning can propel your business forward in a competitive industry.

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Connect with Pat Rodgers on LinkedIn
Learn more about RISE Commercial District Website | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn

Build Boldly is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

Jeff Wraley, CEO and founder of Groundwork, is here to bring a unique perspective to the table, merging his contracting background with innovative software solutions to revolutionize the sales process for home service providers. In this episode of Build Boldly, host Pat Rodgers explores how Groundwork aims to streamline operations, reduce waste, and significantly enhance customer satisfaction by understanding and addressing consumer pain points.

Jeff and Pat discuss the challenges and opportunities of disrupting the residential trades market, emphasizing the shift towards digital interactions and the critical role of technology in adapting to the ‘Amazon effect’ of consumer expectations. They talk about the importance of speed and efficiency in sales, how Groundwork helps contractors qualify leads better, and the overall impact of digital solutions on customer experiences. Jeff also shares invaluable career advice, stressing the need to recognize the different phases of one’s career and understand the strategic game being played in the industry.

Tune in to gain insights on leveraging technology to not only meet but exceed customer expectations in home services, and learn how focusing on specific problems can lead to more effective solutions and business growth.

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Connect with Pat Rodgers on LinkedIn
Learn more about RISE Commercial District Website | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn

Build Boldly is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

Before taking the leap with an Archadeck franchise, Ryan Pape felt his career had stagnated. In this episode of Build Boldly, host Pat Rodgers sits down with Ryan to explore his journey from starting a franchise to navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted supply chains and required innovative marketing strategies to maintain demand for outdoor living spaces.

Ryan discusses the crucial role of robust vendor relationships, the strategic advantage of a showroom for enhancing customer engagement, and how a strong support network within his franchise helped him overcome both personal and professional obstacles. He offers candid insights into the realities of business, including financial management, the science of effective marketing, and the importance of cultivating a positive company culture. Plus, Ryan shares valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs on capital planning.

Tune in to discover how Ryan’s commitment to process, team building, and continuous learning has established him as a leader in his field, and how his experiences can help you build boldly too.

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Connect with Pat Rodgers on LinkedIn
Learn more about RISE Commercial District Website | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn

Build Boldly is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

In this episode of Build Boldly, Pat Rodgers interviews Blake Schneider, President of Legacy Fire Protection, about the dynamic growth and strategic expansion of the company. Originally a small division, Blake and his father acquired and transformed Legacy into a leading full-service provider, reinventing customer service standards in the fire protection industry. Blake talks about the company’s early days operating out of his apartment and garage in Indianapolis, and how moving to a space at RISE Commercial District provided the necessary legitimacy and business address to support their expansion.

Learn how Legacy Fire Protection differentiates itself in a competitive market through exceptional customer relations and transparent communication. Blake also shares insights on expanding into new territories like Fort Wayne and the future plans for Legacy’s growth. This episode offers invaluable lessons on leveraging company culture and core values to drive sustainable business expansion.

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Connect with Pat Rodgers on LinkedIn
Learn more about RISE Commercial District Website | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn

Build Boldly is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

Paul Nichol transitioned from a 25-year career at 3M to franchising with Floor Coverings International, a move he describes as the ‘best decision’ of his career. In this episode, host Pat Rodgers talks with Paul about how his extensive background in service and quality at 3M is crucial to his new venture, driving customer satisfaction with a unique mobile showroom and upholding an impressive 4.8-star review average.

Paul details why the structured support and execution-focused nature of franchising drew him in after decades in the corporate sphere. He discusses the advantages of collaborating within a franchise co-op and the invaluable support from corporate coaches. Listeners will also gain practical advice for aspiring franchisees on how to conduct thorough research and choose a franchise that aligns with their passions and skills.

Tune in to discover how Paul bet on himself and learn why he believes franchising offers a balanced approach to business ownership with manageable risk.

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Connect with Pat Rodgers on LinkedIn
Learn more about RISE Commercial District Website | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn

Build Boldly is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

Following job losses due to COVID, Thomas Harding and Jacob Strong launched their venture from a humble storage unit and have since advanced to a professional setup at RISE Commercial District. Their mantra for aspiring entrepreneurs: bet on yourself, prioritize quality, and never hesitate to seek assistance. In this episode, they sit down with host Pat Rodgers to share their story.

Thomas and Jacob discuss how strategic partnerships with industry veterans and suppliers propelled their business forward, and emphasize the pivotal role of quality service, trust, and smart financing in scaling their operations. The duo also stresses the importance of delegation, staying compliant, and nurturing relationships to ensure sustained growth. Tune in to hear Thomas and Jacob’s insights, proving that with the right mindset and support, turning ‘pipe dreams’ into a successful reality is indeed possible.

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Connect with Pat Rodgers on LinkedIn
Learn more about RISE Commercial District Website | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn

Build Boldly is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

Patty Costlow is a former mechanical engineer who turned her passion for floral arrangements into a thriving business, Florals by Patty. In this episode, Patty sits down with host Pat Rodgers to share her path from engineering to managing a successful floral design company that now caters to 35-40 weddings annually, booked up to 16 months in advance.

How did she do it? Patty leveraged her engineering skills for meticulous planning and problem-solving in her floral business. She talk about the importance of building a robust network, embracing failures as learning opportunities, and using social media to amplify her reach. Plus, you'll learn the crucial roles of partnerships, mentorship, and community support in business success. Tune in for invaluable advice on financial planning, effective staffing, and the art of owning mistakes to propel business growth.

Learn more about Florals by Patty Website | Instagram

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Connect with Pat Rodgers on LinkedIn
Learn more about RISE Commercial District Website | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn

Build Boldly is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.