Business Unchained

Bobby Mascia

Calling all small business warriors who feel chained to their business! Do you run your business or does your business run you? You've poured your blood, sweat and tears into it and it is  time to set yourself free.  I'm Bobby Mascia –  owner of a wealth management firm, family office, manufacturing business, 18 store Dunkin Franchise, and de facto business coach.  My goal? To liberate your business— whether it be operationally, prep for a sale, a legacy handover, or self-management. The roadmap to this freedom is something we will uncover together in Business Unchained."  Join me as I learn about fellow entrepreneurs, dissecting their past, present, and future.

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Episodes

AthletiFreak: Mo Wadhwani Risks it All (S1:E6)
May 23 2024
AthletiFreak: Mo Wadhwani Risks it All (S1:E6)
About Mo Wadhwani After relocating his family ten times in 14 years, Mo finally settled in New Jersey. A move to Austin, Texas, sparked his Iron Man journey, transforming him from an untrained beginner to an athletic sensation and the founder of an apparel brand. Married to his life and business partner, they have two incredible kids who are integral to their brand's lifestyle movement. Mo's story is a testament to determination and pursuing dreams.Reference Links: LinkedinGreen Ridge Wealth PlanningWebsite Instagram Mo Wadhwani Social MediaInstagramAthletiFreak Social MediaLinkedinWebsiteInstagramFacebookEpisode Highlights:Join us on "Business Unchained" as we chat with Mo Wadhwani, co-founder of AthletiFreak. Discover how Mo and his wife, Noor, turned their home-based business into a successful athletic apparel brand with multiple locations. Learn about their challenges, commitment to quality, and innovative approach to customer engagement through pop-ups and brick-and-mortar stores. Don't miss this inspiring episode![11:34] “The woman is a creative genius. She has a background in fashion design. Now that is her expertise because we were relocating, because of my corporate career so frequently, she never had the opportunity to practice her profession.” - MoDuring our conversation, we touch on the challenges and pivots faced in growing a business, such as moving from e-commerce to pop-up shops and eventually to brick-and-mortar stores. Mo shares his personal story of moving frequently for corporate jobs, embracing local cultures, and the importance of family and core values.[20:28] “What we learned is wherever you go, every city has its own personality and we enjoy traveling. Now, a lot of people move in there like, oh, it's not home., For us It was let's learn, let's embrace this culture.” - Mo The conversation explores the spiritual and physical aspects of business ownership, emphasizing stillness, clarity, passion, and hard work. Mo highlights the benefits of working with loved ones and shares insights on starting and scaling a lifestyle brand.[22:14] “The day you say it's working, you're in trouble. I never want to be complacent. I never want to pause and say, we made it.”- Mo[33:00] “It's very easy to say you failed. But to have an environment where it's okay to fail, as long as you learn from your mistakes and then move forward, that's how you build.” - Mo In this episode:         (2:24) – Introduction to Mo Wadhwani         (3:08) – The beginnings of Athletifreak         (5:55) – How the idea for Athletifreak was born         (9:27) – Mo shares his experience of learning to swim         (19:45) – Moving to corporate roles         (25:20) – The need to pivot business strategies         (36:47) – Balancing work and personal life         (38:44) – Mo’s daily routine and personal training         (39:42) – Recalibration through training
From Baseball to Business: Joe Meglio’s Home Run (S1:E5)
May 9 2024
From Baseball to Business: Joe Meglio’s Home Run (S1:E5)
Our Guest -  Joe MeglioJoe Meglio, founder of GameChanger Fitness, has turned his fitness passion into a successful boutique brand focused on helping busy adults over 40 improve strength, happiness, and health. Starting small, Joe has expanded to 13 GameChanger locations and authored three books. Balancing entrepreneurship with family, he's also a devoted husband and father of two.Episode HighlightsSome say the hardest pitch to hit in baseball is the curveball. It’s coming and then it’s not. You think you’ve got a good read on it and then at the last minute, it curves, you swing, you miss! Hitting the curve is what often separates those who make it to the big leagues with those who don’t.. It's true in life and in baseball.“When you make bad-people decisions, it's like making a bad investment. Right? And, you're putting your energy into something that you should never have done in the first place. Those are always the biggest challenges. It's always the people-side of things, which is the biggest strength at the same time. - Joe, (10:45).Today we speak with Joe Meglio, a former baseball prospect who redirected his ambitions from the playing field to business. Joe founded GameChanger Fitness, a groundbreaking brand transforming how people of all ages pursue fitness and wellness.When we're looking to hire . . .experience is not necessarily one of those things that we look for because we know we could teach a lot of the skills that we expect if they have the right behaviors or the right core values. – Joe, (13:49).Joe stops by to share insights he’s learned along the way, where he sees his business going, how he made it this far. It’s an interesting conversation with a guy who has truly smacked it out of the park, Joe Meglio, today on Business Unchained.To succeed you need a “bias towards action, because you're just going to learn so much quicker than if you're just standing on the sidelines. - Joe, (38:07)Business Unchained Social MediaLinkedInGreen Ridge Wealth Planning WebsiteInstagramGameChanger Fitness Social Media InstagramHome WebsiteJoe Meglio – LinkedIn In this episode:(3:19) – Joe takes the listener down the road to how he first began in business. (4:11) – Joe is transparent about his prowess as a baseball player. (7:50) – In 2017, Joe realizes it’s time for the business to grow. (12:53) – Joe shares what the big box gyms are missing. (14:55) – Learning how and who to hire. (15:37) – Joe defines the culture of his gym. (19:45) – The blessing of COVID. (30:54) – The key players on Joe’s team are discussed. (33:54) – The biggest failure Joe has had in his business. (38:58) – The difference between drive and ambition. (40:05) – The gift of having a realistic vision. (40:40) – Joe discusses where he sees himself in 10 years. (43:03) – Work life balance is discussed.
Gillian and Jason Schuler: An Entrepreneurial Screenplay (S1:E4)
Apr 25 2024
Gillian and Jason Schuler: An Entrepreneurial Screenplay (S1:E4)
About Gillian and Jason Schuler Gillian and Jason Schuler, the duo behind Awakened Films, are driving forces in New Jersey's production scene. Specializing in commercials, corporate films, and nonprofit videos, their journey embodies resilience and vision. Starting in 2008 amid economic challenges, they've grown into a thriving studio. They share insights into running a creative business as spouses, tackling tough issues like financial setbacks while showcasing their journey from idea to success.Episode Highlights:In today’s episode of "Business Unchained," we have the pleasure of sitting down with Jason and Gillian Schuler, the husband and wife duo behind Awakened Films. Our conversation is lighthearted but also deeply inspiring. Their philosophy centers on servanthood and maintaining an impeccable reputation, which is essential for sustaining a thriving business. As the business grows they embrace the benefits of family in business, fostering a legacy of integrity and cohesion.“Whenever there's dramatic change in the world, opportunity is right around the corner. When the tide goes out, you also see whatever's been hidden.” - Jason, (42:23)Gillian and Jason unashamedly delve into the heart of what it means to build a business with purpose, passion, and a people-first approach.“Character is more important than talent; talent only gets you so far, but character can be that next part that takes you from good to great." –Gillian, (15:42).The Schulers discuss their agility in adapting to market shifts and maintaining a positive company culture. They reflect on the rewards of risk-taking and the importance of values in their community and for future generations, making for an inspiring listen for entrepreneurial spirits.“Somebody else's ceiling can be our floor, and we build from there.” - Gillian, (50:37)Reference Links: LinkedinGreen Ridge Wealth PlanningWebsite Instagram Schuler Social MediaLinkedin - GillianLinkedIn - JasonWebsiteInstagramFacebookAwakened Films Social MediaLinkedinWebsiteInstagramFacebook In this episode:- [01:40] Mother's Day plans- [07:03] Starting a business- [10:50] Pivotal moment- [19:21] Keeping employees engaged- [21:53] Delegating and growing the team- [31:00] Building an evergreen business- [38:50] Covid Challenges- [44:26] Reflection and Lessons Learned- [46:54] Values and Legacy
Luke Iorio: The Man in the Mirror (S1:E3)
Apr 11 2024
Luke Iorio: The Man in the Mirror (S1:E3)
About Luke Iorio Father, husband, entrepreneur, coach, and podcaster are just a few of Luke Iorio’s titles. As a men’s coach, his clients routinely seek him out to help them find their way back to real well-being and balance, to get closer to their true purpose, and get back into alignment with who they were always meant to be. He previously served as CEO of iPEC (Institute of Professional Coaching) where he took the company from 8 employees and 1,500 graduates to 40 employees, 80 contractors and 15,000 graduates from over 44 countries. After his man in the mirror moment, he stepped down from iPEC and, over the next few years, transitioned to his current endeavor, Man on Fire. The organization is devoted to helping men of all walks find themselves again and re-discover what mature masculine leadership is meant to be. In his free time, Luke is an outdoors enthusiast who enjoys hiking, fitness, spending time with his family, and time around the firepit with friends. Episode Highlights:It takes courage to hear and more importantly, listen to the voice inside, the one that often tells a person which way to go or when the current journey has ended. Fear is what cripples so many: fear of the unknown, fear of moving from a place of comfort, and fear of what others might think if we’re brave enough to move.  “The business is a reflection of the entrepreneur.” – Luke, (11:20).Today, we hear from Luke Iorio, an ultra-successful leader who faced all these questions and so many more at the height of his success. Luke heard the inner voice, telling him to move on, and on this episode, he details his transition with the goal of helping listeners learn to do the same. After leading iPEC, a coaching and training program to the position of unquestioned market leadership, he boldly walked away, trusting that that journey had ended, willing to use the lessons learned on his next one. “The more that they (top-line executives), would grow themselves, the more their businesses would reflect that.” – Luke, (15:15).Luke gets candid about his ascent into the upper realms of business and how he managed to positively impact the lives of others and the moment he realized it was time to reclaim his life. He’ll also speak openly about Man on Fire, his current endeavor that is changing the lives of men all over, helping them shed stigmas and reach their full potential. It’s a candid conversation you can’t afford to miss. The one and only Luke Iorio, today on Business Unchained!“We recognized very early on that we wanted to be a standard bearer inside the industry.” – Luke, (18:26).“If you give me enough time and resources, I will figure out a way.” – Luke, (30:42).“Understand that burnout is multi-faceted meaning it’s physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual.” – Luke, (42:51).Reference Links: LinkedinGreen Ridge Wealth PlanningWebsite Instagram Luke Iorio/Man on Fire Social MediaFacebookLinkedinYouTubeInstagramFacebook In this episode:(7:43) – Luke opens up and tells his story, starting with iPEC. (8:43) – How the word coaching in an email caught his attention. (9:27) – Father comes along for the first meeting Luke has with Bruce
Homeownership Revolutionized: Alfred Bentley's Entrepreneurial Blueprint (S1:E2)
Mar 28 2024
Homeownership Revolutionized: Alfred Bentley's Entrepreneurial Blueprint (S1:E2)
Listeners: To activate your free VIPHomeLink.com account, use the code 100FromBobby. For the first 100 listeners!Our Guest - Alfred Bentley, PhDAlfred Bentley’s mission is to make homeowners safer, smarter, and more organized – one home at a time. An award-winning inventor and technologist, Bentley created the technology behind vipHomeLink to simplify his own life. Today he is fully immersed in the process of bringing his vision to improve homeownership through technology to homes all over the world. When he’s not working, Bentley enjoys doing work around his home, skiing, sailing, and taking adventures with his family. Episode HighlightsCountless groundbreaking innovations have stemmed from the simple query: "What if?" Entrepreneurs wake up pondering this question, igniting movements and reshaping lives as they act upon their insights to enhance products, solutions, or tools. Reflecting on history, our world is shaped by those who courageously transition from idea to execution, imprinting their vision on reality.“A lot of the best ideas weren’t always coming from research, they were not always coming from the labs, but came from interactions with customers.” – Alfred, (2:44).Today, we encounter Alfred Bentley, who embodies the power of "what if." At 24, he approached IBM's board with his transformative idea, yielding a $1 billion impact. This mindset drove him to create vipHomeLink, enhancing the homeowner experience.“I just try to make sure I do something physical, every single day.” – Alfred, (11:18).Alfred stops by to share his amazing journey, lessons he’s learned along the way, the things he wishes for his fellow entrepreneur, and how he creates the optimal work life balance. This is an incredible conversation with an even more incredible man and one you can’t afford to miss. Alfred Bentley, today on Business Unchained!“I spend a lot of time with my family, and I cherish every moment of it, but I also end up working 80 to 100 hours a week. If I wasn’t doing something that I loved, I think that would be sucking the life out of me.” – Alfred, (24:38).Relevant LinksBobby MasciaLinkedinGreen Ridge Wealth PlanningWebsiteInstagramAlfred BentleyWebsiteInstagramYouTubeLinkedinBart Adaptive Sports Center - WebsiteBy the minute:(2:04) – Alfred gives the listeners a look at his journey from where he started to where he stands today. (3:36) – IBM Thinkplace is born. (12:43) – Alfred takes a deep dive into Bart Adaptive. (15:41) – The role of gratitude in the success of Alfred. (17:52) – Alfred discloses the source of his inspiration. (18:30)- The team he works with lacks risk aversion. (23:11) – Alfred and the skippable steps of the journey thus far. (24:25) – Alfred discusses his wish for other entrepreneurs. (27:55) – Three things Alfred would like to leave behind. (30:54) – Alfred admits he more than likely will never retire. (33:03) – Alfred goes inside the product offering.
Seizing Opportunities: The Donald Anfuso Story (S1: E1)
Mar 14 2024
Seizing Opportunities: The Donald Anfuso Story (S1: E1)
Donald AnfusoDonald Anfuso is the visionary behind the MP4L brand. Before launching this venture, he was a VP, responsible for more than 100 employees and 15 multi-state branch locations. That experience taught him that nothing beats the quality of one-on-one service and providing a stellar customer experience. His journey in mortgages began more than two decades ago as a high school student, looking to find his niche. Since that time, he has developed a no-holds-barred work ethic that has made him one of the go-to names in the mortgage industry. His expertise is what sets him apart and it allows him to position his clients for the best possible experience. It’s that approach that empowers him to become their Mortgage Professional 4 Life!EpisodeSuccess is a journey, not a destination. Along the way, there are lessons learned from triumphs and defeats that make it all the more fulfilling. No two journeys are alike, but there are kernels of wisdom that can be derived from others even though their paths are different. Being available and realizing when an opportunity is being presented is often the most critical component of success – something our guest today can attest to. “What good is money and success if you have no time to enjoy it?’ – Donald, (6:10).Coming out of high school, a chance encounter set Donald Anfuso on the road to servicing others through mortgages. He didn’t know that would be his life calling, but when he got the call, he listened and never looked back. Today, he’s the driving force behind MP4L, a mortgage firm based in New Jersey. Donald sits down with Bobby to discuss his start, the lessons he has learned along the way, what drives him, the importance of the customer experience, and where he sees himself going from here.“When there’s something that I love and it motivates me, it’s not work anymore.” – Donald, (08:42).This is an amazing conversation filled with transparency, wisdom, and truth. If you’ve been on the fence wondering if you have what it takes to make your dreams a reality, sit back and listen to Donald and his story and get the fuel you need to move forward. Donald Anfuso, today on Business Unchained!“The consumer experience is really the most important thing ever.” – Donald, (12:41).Business UnchainedLinkedInGreen Ridge Wealth PlanningWebsiteInstagramDonald AnfusoWebsite InstagramX (Formerly Twitter)In this episode:(0:39) – Bobby gives the premise behind the Business Unchained podcast. (6:17) – His initial plan was to go into the family restaurant business, not mortgages.(6:49) – Donald reveals his father’s business philosophy and approach. (9:37) – Donald details his corporate rise. (14:11) – Donald discusses the value of the consumer experience. (17:07) – A short window caused Donald to dive in.(22:54) – Donald and Bobby discuss lessons learned. (22:30) – Bring Donald solutions, not problems. (24:05) – The importance of being willing to listen. (26:16) – A willingness to change is an important part of the success journey. (30:13) – Investing in your body is critical. (33:47) – The three things Donald would leave behind.