Skip to content
Leading With Grit: How Patrick Carr Built a Media Empire

Leading With Grit: How Patrick Carr Built a Media Empire

Welcome to another episode of the Entrepreneur’s Journey Podcast. In this edition, host Michael Pallozzi sits down with Patrick Carr, President and CEO of Blue Collar Media Group. From humble beginnings—armed only with a cell phone and a vision—Patrick shares how he built one of the most respected media companies serving blue collar businesses. The conversation covers early financial risks, hard lessons, and how Patrick's leadership evolved as his company scaled. Listeners will gain firsthand insights into entrepreneurship, team building, and bridging the gap between great media and real ROI for trades businesses. Tune into this episode to also learn:…

Read more
Tax Talk: Standard vs. Itemized: What You Need to Know

Tax Talk: Standard vs. Itemized: What You Need to Know

Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast. In this episode, Andrew and Brett break down below-the-line tax deductions. They’re offering practical explanations and examples to help you understand how these deductions really work.  They’re talking: The difference between standard and itemized deductions Key itemized categories like mortgage interest, state and local taxes, charitable giving, and medical expenses  And diving into niche areas like gambling losses and casualty losses.  Whether you're filing solo or jointly, this episode equips you with the tools to make more informed tax decisions. Tune in to learn: The distinction between standard and itemized deductions. Key categories…

Read more
Structuring for Success: Entity Planning with John Cavanaugh

Structuring for Success: Entity Planning with John Cavanaugh

Welcome back to The Entrepreneur’s Journey. In this episode, Jason Gabrieli sits down with John Cavanaugh, CPA and tax attorney at Firenze Advisors, to discuss the foundational role that legal entity structure plays throughout the life of a business—from launch to scale to exit. They explore common pitfalls, how to adjust structures as businesses grow, and key planning considerations for exits, succession, and estate transitions. If you’re a business owner thinking about growth or preparing for a future sale, this episode is packed with practical knowledge. Tune into this episode to also learn: Why your legal entity structure isn’t just…

Read more
From “No Options” to a Clear Value Proposition: Lessons From Home Services Owner, Shawn Calkins

From “No Options” to a Clear Value Proposition: Lessons From Home Services Owner, Shawn Calkins

Entrepreneurs Journey with Michael Pallozzi, EP.26 Sometimes the “aha moment” is not fireworks and confetti. It shows up when you are backed into a corner and have no choice but to figure it out. That is exactly where the conversation goes in Episode 26 of Entrepreneurs Journey. Michael sat down with Shawn Calkins, owner of Universal Service Solutions in Edwardsville, Pennsylvania, to talk about what it really takes to run a home services business. Money management. Hiring and keeping the right people. Weather setbacks that can derail your schedule. The long game of building a company that can eventually run…

Read more
From Jobless to Job Creator: Shawn Calkins’ Story of Grit and Growth

From Jobless to Job Creator: Shawn Calkins’ Story of Grit and Growth

In this episode of the Entrepreneurs Journey, Michael Pallozzi speaks with Shawn Calkins, owner of Universal Service Solutions in Edwardsville, Pennsylvania. Shawn shares how he went from being unemployed during the 2008 housing crisis to owning a successful full-service pavement maintenance company. The conversation highlights the importance of grit, financial discipline, mentorship, and building a team culture rooted in values. Listeners will hear about Shawn’s “profit-first” approach, how he supports his crew's financial growth, and why relationship-building is at the core of his business strategy. Tune into this episode to also learn: Why cash flow management and profit-first thinking transformed…

Read more
Above-the-Line Deductions: What They Mean for You

Above-the-Line Deductions: What They Mean for You

On Episode 72 of the DollarWise Podcast, Andrew Barnhardt and Brett Herron dug into a topic that might not sound exciting at first glance but could save you real money when it comes time to file your taxes: above-the-line deductions. These deductions often get overlooked, yet they’re one of the most effective ways to reduce your taxable income and create opportunities for better planning throughout the year. Why Talk About Above-the-Line Deductions? Taxes aren’t just a March and April conversation. The decisions you make throughout the year—from how you save for retirement to how you handle health care—can directly affect…

Read more
Tax Talk: Above-the-Line Deductions Explained

Tax Talk: Above-the-Line Deductions Explained

Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast. In this episode, Andrew Barnhardt and Brett Herron of HFM Advisors dive into the world of above-the-line tax deductions. These often-overlooked deductions can reduce your adjusted gross income and improve your eligibility for other tax benefits. From retirement contributions and HSAs to student loan interest and self-employment tax breaks, Andrew and Brett break down how these deductions work, why they matter, and how to take advantage of them. Whether you're planning for next April or the next decade, this episode offers a practical look at reducing your tax bill. Tune into this episode…

Read more
From Building Mansions to Building Science: Kevin Brenner’s Entrepreneurial Path

From Building Mansions to Building Science: Kevin Brenner’s Entrepreneurial Path

Welcome back to The Entrepreneur’s Journey. In this episode, Michael Pallozzi speaks with Kevin Brenner, founder of Healthy Home Energy & Consulting. Kevin shares his unexpected journey from podiatry school to building luxury homes for billionaires, and ultimately to pioneering sustainable construction practices as a “building scientist.” He discusses his transition from Brenner Builders to Healthy Home, and how energy efficiency, education, and environmental stewardship have shaped his mission. Kevin’s story is a masterclass in evolving your career with purpose and principle.   Tune into this episode to also learn: How Kevin transitioned from medical school to multi-million-dollar homebuilding. What…

Read more
Built to Sell: Transitioning Your Business with Purpose

Built to Sell: Transitioning Your Business with Purpose

Welcome back to The Entrepreneur’s Journey. In this episode, Jason sits down with Michael Roth, Managing Partner of V&R Capital, to explore how business owners can thoughtfully prepare for one of the biggest financial decisions of their lives—selling their business. From his personal journey through entrepreneurship and tragedy to founding a firm focused on family-owned businesses, Michael shares the unique challenges and critical steps involved in planning a sale. Whether you're retiring, or just want to ensure your legacy, this episode offers valuable direction.   Tune into this episode to also learn: Why building a business “to sell” benefits you—even…

Read more
Lessons from a Young Entrepreneur: What the Trades Don’t Teach You About Business

Lessons from a Young Entrepreneur: What the Trades Don’t Teach You About Business

In this episode of The Entrepreneur's Journey, Michael sits down with Harrison Edwards, president of My Painter & Exteriors in Arlington, Virginia, to explore his remarkable journey from starting a business at age 20 to running a thriving painting and exterior contracting company by 29. Harrison shares candid insights about overcoming early challenges, understanding profitability, growing a scalable business, and learning critical lessons from tough projects. This conversation highlights practical strategies for contractors and entrepreneurs aiming to enhance their business acumen and accelerate growth.   Tune into this episode to also learn: How to accurately price jobs for profitability. Key…

Read more
Back To Top