Alpha Bytes

Michael Barbarita is the Owner and President of Next Step CFO, a firm providing CFO services and business and financial strategies to help companies achieve sustainable growth. A seasoned entrepreneur, Michael has owned and operated retail, manufacturing, and service companies for over three decades, including Ski Town USA, which he grew from $2.5 million to $8 million in less than five years. One of his products, Cookies To Scoop Frozen Cookie Dough, was featured on the QVC Home Shopping Network and earned accolades as one of Massachusetts' top 20 products in 1997. An award-winning public speaker and co-author of Powerful Business Strategies, Michael advocates transformative marketing and financial approaches through his four-step conversion formula. In this episode… Do you ever feel like you're blending into the “sea of sameness” with your business strategies? You might have experienced the frustration of seeing competitors outshine you when you're offering similar products or services. Learn how a serial entrepreneur unlocked the potential to stand out and grow exponentially, even in uncertain times.  Michael Barbarita delves into his strategies for taking a venture from barely noticeable to an industry leader. Michael candidly shares his entrepreneurial journey of highs and lows, including the explosive growth of Ski Town USA and an eye-opening setback with Freedom Therapy Center. He provides a treasure chest of strategies, such as the “Conversion Formula” and “The Seven Step Pathway to Profit,” revealing how calculated risk-taking, strategic differentiation, and customer-oriented marketing translate into business victories. By creatively showcasing the compelling components of your offer, including risk-reversal and adding value, you can differentiate your business in a saturated market.  In this episode of Alpha Bytes, Alex Zinni hosts Michael Barbarita, Owner and President of Next Step CFO, to discuss strategies for thriving in uncertain business environments. Michael analyzes his seven-step pathway to profit, emphasizes flexibility and adaptability to change, and highlights the value of a visionary mindset, understanding crucial financial metrics, and implementing unique strategies that competitors overlook.

Tony Picciano is the Founder and President of Top Sales Success Group LLC, a Willoughby, Ohio-based company specializing in business sales consulting and strategic planning. With over 40 years of experience in sales and sales management, Tony worked with startups and Fortune 100 companies before founding Top Sales Success. A DiSC Certified Practitioner, he collaborates with organizations on custom sales programs, strategic planning, executive coaching, and personality assessments. As a mentor and driven entrepreneur, Tony takes pride in helping others grow their businesses by fostering effective communication and team building. In this episode… Research has demonstrated that personality plays a significant role in workplace dynamics and sales performance. In a world of competitive business deals and complex teams, understanding the nuances of human behavior and effective communication is not just beneficial; it is essential. How can understanding yourself and others lead to business success? Drawing from over 40 years of sales experience, Tony Picciano shares insights on building successful sales teams and businesses. Tony reflects on how he founded Top Sales Success to help small and mid-sized businesses thrive. A key tool in his approach is the DiSC Personality Assessment, which he incorporated into every organization he’s led since discovering it in the late 80s. Tony illustrates the potential conflicts between different personalities, like the fast-paced “D” and the more thoughtful “S,” and emphasizes the importance of adapting communication styles to suit various team dynamics. With compelling stories of patterns he has observed among thriving entrepreneurs, Tony illustrates why understanding these dynamics is crucial to achieving business objectives. In this episode of Alpha Bytes, Alex Zinni chats with Tony Picciano, Founder and President of Top Sales Success Group LLC, about leveraging personality assessments to enhance organizational culture and growth. Tony delves into the practical application of the DiSC assessment in enhancing team performance and communication, underscores the importance of aligning deals with your value proposition, and delves into his career journey.

Dr. John Paul Stephens is an Associate Professor of Organizational Behavior at the Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University. In his role, he teaches organizational behavior, positive scholarship, and negotiation, focusing on how people come together to achieve peak collective performance. With a PhD in organizational psychology from the University of Michigan, his research on topics like high-quality connections and strengths-based feedback has earned awards and grants from notable institutions like the Academy of Management and the Cleveland Clinic Foundation. In this episode… Effective teamwork is the cornerstone of success in modern organizations, driving innovation, productivity, and employee satisfaction. In an era characterized by remote work, diverse teams, and rapid technological advancements, fostering collaboration requires more than assigning tasks. How can leaders foster connection and create a high-performing workplace? Dr. John Paul Stephens, an expert in organizational psychology, outlines common challenges within organizations, such as ineffective leadership or lack of clear communication channels, and provides insights into how these can be turned around through intentional actions and a clear vision. Dr. Stephens emphasizes intentional communication and relationship-building within teams, including in remote or hybrid settings, offering practical examples from construction management teams who successfully navigated such complexities. Drawing from his diverse academic and professional experiences, he illustrates how teams can overcome communication barriers and enhance collaboration by being intentional about their interactions. In this episode of Alpha Bytes, Alex Zinni chats with Dr. John Paul Stephens, Associate Professor of Organizational Behavior at the Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University. Dr. Stephens delves into strategies for fostering effective teamwork, how to build meaningful organizational connections, the underlying principles that propel groups to peak collective performance, and actionable insights on enhancing team dynamics.

Jeff Monreal is the Owner, President, and Funeral Director of Jeff Monreal Funeral Home, which spans three locations in Northeast Ohio. He is also the Owner of Installed Services, which installs batt insulation. As a seasoned entrepreneur, he represents the fifth generation in his family's funeral home industry. Jeff has a deep-rooted passion for service, demonstrated by his ability to provide unique and meaningful experiences for grieving families. Jeff is also known for his philanthropic efforts, such as organizing an annual golf outing that raises substantial funds for various charitable causes. In this episode… Research has shown that early entrepreneurial experiences can impact your ability to identify opportunities and create thriving ventures. But what happens when this entrepreneurial spirit meets a commitment to serving others? Can professional dedication coexist with philanthropic initiatives? Learn the strategies that helped a fifth-generation funeral home owner balance entrepreneurship with a fulfilling personal life. Jeff Monreal’s multifaceted entrepreneurial journey began with childhood snow-shoveling gigs that naturally evolved into business ownership. With vivid anecdotes, Jeff illustrates how dedication to customer service and community engagement fuels his endeavors. Self-taught skills in communication and negotiation, along with the influence of family traditions in the funeral home industry, have shaped his approach to business. Jeff emphasizes the importance of maintaining genuine personal connections and offering compassionate service, which is particularly crucial in a funeral home business, where he often goes above and beyond to create personalized, memorable experiences for grieving families. He also provides insights on balancing professional responsibilities with being an attentive father, husband, and active community member. In this episode of Alpha Bytes, Alex Zinni hosts Jeff Monreal, Owner, President, and Funeral Director of Jeff Monreal Funeral Home, about navigating diverse entrepreneurial ventures and philanthropy. Jeff discusses the significance of customer reviews and personal referrals in building credibility, the value of preplanning your life and career, and the power of the 24-hour decision-making rule. He also delves into his philanthropic endeavors, illustrating how business can be a platform for positive change.

Dr. Martina Moore is the President and CEO of Moore Counseling and Mediation Services, Inc. (MCMS), which she founded over 25 years ago. As a seasoned counselor, international speaker, and trainer, Dr. Moore is also the Department Chair for the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at John Carroll University, specializing in mental health treatment for minorities and high-conflict couples and families. As an advocate for mental health in the workplace, Dr. Moore champions Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) and executive counseling, positioning her as an influential voice in both education and practice. In this episode… What drives someone to leave a secure job and start their own venture? Whether it’s a personal connection to the field, an entrepreneurial spirit, or motivation from a loved one, mentorship and innovation can make a difference in an entrepreneur’s journey. How did a business leader overcome obstacles to shape the future of counseling with innovative research and international teaching? Dr. Martina Moore, a seasoned counselor and entrepreneur, shares her transformative story of building Moore Counseling and Mediation Services. Starting from humble beginnings as a case manager, Dr. Moore's journey was fueled by her personal experiences and the support of mentors, including an older colleague who saw potential in her and offered an opportunity. By acquiring the business with creative financing, she doubled its size in six months, leveraging certifications as a minority and woman-owned business enterprise to secure valuable contracts. Dr. Moore’s pivot from a professional counselor to an entrepreneurial leader who champions mental health advocacy illustrates the value of empowering others to achieve their potential. In this episode of Alpha Bytes, Alex Zinni chats with Dr. Martina Moore, President and CEO of Moore Counseling and Mediation, Inc., about building a thriving counseling practice. Dr. Moore explores the value of mentorship, why leaders should prioritize employees’ mental health, strategies for entrepreneurial growth, and the evolving role of technology in behavioral health. Tune in for insights on fostering a positive mental health environment and empowering others to achieve their potential.

Alex Zinni is the Founder and CEO of Alpha Key Digital, which specializes in revenue-generating digital marketing solutions for businesses. With a diverse portfolio in web development and design, Alex is dedicated to staying on the cutting edge of digital marketing. At Alpha Key Digital, Alex leads a team of experts who share his passion for helping businesses thrive online. Leveraging his English Literature background and passion for music, he combines compelling storytelling with advanced marketing techniques. Alex also hosts the Alpha Bytes podcast, where he dives into the growth insights of business leaders and entrepreneurs. In this episode… With so many hats to wear — from medical experts to business executives — plastic surgeons require more than exceptional surgical skills to stay competitive. How do thriving practitioners balance the art of aesthetic transformation with the science of strategic marketing? With robust experience crafting transformative digital strategies for health-care practices, Alex Zinni explores the strategies savvy surgeons use to set themselves apart. He underscores the indispensability of a visually appealing website, which serves as the digital storefront for attracting potential clients. In addition to a strong web presence, Alex highlights the necessity of an authentic social media strategy that reflects the personality and expertise of the surgeon, thereby engaging and converting followers into clients. A vibrant social presence complemented by positive reviews and an engaging cosmetic coordinator can dramatically enhance patient acquisition and retention, helping you resonate with potential clients while positioning your practice as a leader in the industry. Tune in to this episode of Alpha Bytes as Chad Franzen of Rise25 interviews Alex Zinni, Founder and CEO of Alpha Key Digital, about multifaceted digital marketing techniques for plastic surgeons. Alex touches on the importance of tailored SEO and how to enhance practice visibility, boost patient engagement, and foster a compelling online persona that echoes the quality of in-office experiences.

Bill Monreal is the Founder and CEO of Monreal IT, an Ohio-based company specializing in managed cybersecurity and IT infrastructure services. A seasoned technology expert with a career spanning over 30 years, Bill launched his professional journey as a systems and network engineer before founding Monreal IT in 2001. His early achievements included a landmark six-year network architecture project with major automotive players such as GM, Ford, Chrysler, and Bell & Howell, later expanding his portfolio to Fortune 500 clients. In recent years, Bill has refocused Monreal IT’s mission toward supporting Cleveland’s small- and medium-sized businesses, bringing enterprise-level expertise to his local community. In this episode… Cyber threats evolve constantly, and attacks that were once uncommon are now daily occurrences. With the rise of sophisticated AI tools and social engineering techniques, is anyone truly safe online? How can small- and medium-sized businesses bolster their defenses against tech-savvy attackers waiting for a slipup? Cybersecurity guru Bill Monreal sheds light on how he addresses these pressing issues. Illustrating the evolution of cybersecurity from the early days of Windows 2000 to the current AI-driven landscape, he indicates how AI can be both a tool and a threat. With real-world examples of how hackers use AI to launch sophisticated attacks, Bill stresses the importance of proactive measures like security awareness training and having a separate admin login. As a business owner or leader, it’s crucial to educate end-users as they are often the weakest link, making organizations vulnerable to attacks such as phishing and social engineering. Bill recommends staying ahead by aligning with top solution providers to combat the constant cycle of new technologies and vendors. His approach to simplifying cybersecurity demystifies the complexities that typically intimidate many business owners. In this episode of Alpha Bytes, Alex Zinni chats with Bill Monreal, Founder and CEO of Monreal IT, to explore how AI's intersection with cybersecurity is molding the future of data protection. Bill delves into the intricacies of protecting a business in a digital age fraught with risks, the most prevalent cybersecurity threats and how to mitigate them, and the explosive growth of AI. He also questions common misconceptions, such as the false sense of security associated with Mac systems.

Christine Weber is the President and CEO of the Mentor Area Chamber of Commerce, a nonprofit organization uniting businesses and professionals to expand the economy in the Mentor area of Ohio. Christine’s journey began at the Chamber in 1995 as an executive assistant, leading to her nomination as CEO in 2017. Leveraging her accounting and business management background, she manages the finances for the Chamber, the Lake County Safety Council, and the MACC Foundation. She is also responsible for planning and overseeing chamber events, including the annual golf outing and Taste of Mentor. A lifelong Mentor resident and Hall of Fame inductee at Mentor High School and Lakeland Community College, Christine is recognized for her dedication to local businesses. In this episode… As a small business owner, navigating business challenges requires a keen ability to adapt to shifting market conditions and manage limited resources to ensure long-term sustainability. However, a community of industry members can be a source of new perspectives and ideas to foster growth. Can networking truly transform your business? With years of experience meeting the needs of local businesses in the Mentor area of Ohio, Christine Weber delves into the significance of commerce chambers. She illustrates their role in networking, local business promotion, and member support, especially during crises such as the pandemic. Sharing the profound impact of the Mentor Area Chamber of Commerce on local businesses and the community, Christine demonstrates how building connections and joining community-oriented organizations can foster personal and professional growth, particularly for women entrepreneurs seeking mentorship. From pivotal career moments to the intriguing story of her nomination as CEO, she uncovers how dedication and adaptability can lead to remarkable career growth.  In this episode of Alpha Bytes, Alex Zinni hosts Christine Weber, President and CEO of the Mentor Area Chamber of Commerce, about her career journey and insights into the business community. Christine highlights the importance of adapting and staying relevant in today's business world, illustrates the power of networking, and sheds light on the Chamber's strategic focus on promoting and supporting entrepreneurs.

Dr. David Gutman is the Founder and Lead Physician at Advanced Hemorrhoid Specialists, which specializes in the latest, state-of-the-art, nonsurgical hemorrhoid treatment. A dedicated medical professional with 18 years of experience, he has performed over 50,000 procedures since 2005, making him one of the most experienced practitioners in Northeast Ohio. He is also the Founder and a board-certified Internal Medicine Doctor and Lifestyle Medicine Specialist at Cleveland Nutrition, where he promotes transformative health programs and better nutrition through his Plants As Medicine® program. Dr. Gutman holds a medical degree from Case Western Reserve University and completed his residency at MetroHealth Medical Center. In this episode… Can your diet transform not just your waistline but also your overall health? With ever-changing health trends and a burgeoning supplement industry, getting lost in a maze of misinformation is easy. How can reassessing your understanding of certain health norms improve well-being? Dr. David Gutman, a seasoned medical professional and nutrition expert, delves into his groundbreaking work in hemorrhoid treatment and nutritional therapy. Dr. Gutman shares his pivot from traditional medical pathways to focus on nonsurgical treatments and plant-based nutrition, leading to transformative health outcomes. He debunks common nutrition myths and questions the sustainability of current weight loss medications, emphasizing the need for dietary quality over quantity in your diet. Additionally, Dr. Gutman’s story of medical entrepreneurship illustrates how adapting to changes in your industry can shape your journey in business.  In this episode of Alpha Bytes, Alex Zinni hosts Dr. David Gutman, Founder of Cleveland Nutrition and Advanced Hemorrhoid Specialists, about transitioning from conventional medical practices to focusing on preventive health through diet. Dr. Gutman discusses how changing dietary habits can significantly influence health outcomes. He highlights the benefits of a plant-centric diet, how to understand your digestive health, and strategies for adopting healthier eating habits.

Dr. Cara Ogren is the President of Synergy Physical Therapy and Wellness, an interdisciplinary practice focused on women's health and orthopedic treatments, which provides services including physical therapy, massage therapy, reflexology, health coaching, and athletic training. With over two decades of experience in orthopedic physical therapy, Dr. Ogren is recognized for her innovative approach to patient care and her dedication to serving underserved communities. She has grown her practice to three locations in Ohio, and her commitment extends beyond the clinic as an active member of the American Physical Therapy Association, where she champions patient advocacy and evidence-based practices. In this episode… What drives the most impactful entrepreneurs to innovate in their niche? The secret sometimes lies in the ability to identify the needs within their community and create services that fill the gap. Learn how a wellness professional turned a personal connection to healing into a groundbreaking business, transforming barriers into opportunities.  Dr. Cara Ogren’s journey from a passionate physical therapist to a thriving “wellpreneur” began with her early introduction to the power of physical therapy. From volunteering at a young age to building and expanding her practice to three locations, she highlights the role of visionary mentors in her career growth. Driven by a commitment to holistic, nonsurgical care, Dr. Ogren navigates the challenges of startup growth through strategic planning and debt-free expansion. Emphasizing patient empowerment, particularly in women's health, she stresses how self-directed care and collaboration with other healthcare providers have transformed patient care. To stay competitive, Dr. Ogren recommends innovating in your industry while maintaining the integrity and personal touch that defines your business. In this episode of Alpha Bytes, Alex Zinni welcomes Dr. Cara Ogren, the President of Synergy Physical Therapy and Wellness, to chat about revolutionizing women's health through physical therapy and insightful leadership. Dr. Ogren shares insights into solving industry challenges through entrepreneurship and why reputation and integrity are the cornerstones of her business. Tune in to learn how personal touch remains at the forefront of patient care amidst corporate partnerships.

Alex Zinni is the Founder and CEO of Alpha Key Digital, which specializes in revenue-generating digital marketing solutions for businesses. With a diverse portfolio in web development and design, Alex is dedicated to staying on the cutting edge of digital marketing. At Alpha Key Digital, Alex leads a team of experts who share his passion for helping businesses thrive online. Leveraging his English Literature background and passion for music, he combines compelling storytelling with advanced marketing techniques. Alex also hosts the Alpha Bytes podcast, where he dives into the growth insights of business leaders and entrepreneurs. In this episode… In today’s crowded e-commerce space, impactful storytelling can increase engagement between a brand and its audience, driving conversions and revenue growth. How do you use storytelling to gain a competitive edge in your niche?  With years of experience transforming businesses through digital strategies, Alex Zinni reflects on how his love for storytelling, cultivated through literature and music, became the cornerstone of his marketing approach. Alex shares his remarkable journey from an English literature major to running a successful digital marketing agency, illustrating how accidental paths in life can lead to unexpected success. He underscores the importance of staying adaptable, especially with AI’s growing influence in marketing. As an entrepreneur, it’s crucial to leverage your unique skills, stay informed on emerging technologies, and focus on crafting narratives that cut through the noise in the competitive digital landscape. Tune in to this episode of Alpha Bytes as Chad Franzen of Rise25 interviews Alex Zinni, Founder and CEO of Alpha Key Digital, about the importance of crafting compelling narratives. Alex shares insights on scaling your digital strategies to stay ahead of the competition, the challenges and opportunities of AI in marketing, and why businesses should adapt to emerging technologies. He also shares his accidental path to entrepreneurship and how the newly launched Alpha Bytes podcast will benefit its audience.

Bill Streb is the Owner of Streb Electric, an electrical services company headquartered in Eastlake, Ohio. Founded in 1975, Streb Electric has grown into a premier residential service and repair company, earning a reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction. A veteran entrepreneur and master electrician, Bill joined his father, company founder Bill Streb Sr., in 1989, leaving the corporate world to pursue hands-on service and customer satisfaction. His passion propels Streb Electric's success, leading the company into its near half-century legacy, showcased by over 700 glowing reviews and a 4.9-star rating on Google. Ryan Streb is the Service Manager at Streb Electric. He is also an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Specialist with the Army National Guard and a Police Auxiliary for the Eastlake Police Department. In 2006, Ryan started working with the family business while in high school. He joined Streb Electric full-time in 2010, took a break to serve in the Army as an EOD technician, and returned in 2017. Now, he is preparing to become the third-generation owner of Streb Electric. In this episode… Can legacy and adaptation coexist in today's fast-moving services industry? How did a family-owned company stay afloat and thrive for half a century, and what can we learn from them? Bill and Ryan Streb discuss the history of Streb Electric, a family-owned business approaching its 50th anniversary. Starting in a home garage by Bill’s father and now boasting a reputable establishment with a dedicated team, they attribute the company’s success to continuous adaptation, relentless customer focus, and a slight touch of military precision. To stay competitive, business owners must hire employees with excellent communication skills and a shared commitment to service excellence. Bill reflects on his father's advice on treating others well, which continues to shape their business philosophy today. At the same time, Ryan brings a fresh perspective on managing a diverse team to create a harmonious work environment.  In this episode of Alpha Bytes, Alex Zinni hosts Bill Streb, Owner of Streb Electric, and Ryan Streb, Service Manager at Streb Electric, to discuss evolving leadership and maintaining quality service in the electrical services industry. Bill and Ryan share Streb Electric’s rise to prominence, highlighting the value of customer service and teamwork and emphasizing hiring employees with excellent communication skills and a shared commitment to service excellence.