Scaling the Gap is a podcast crafted for the bold, bright, ambitious leaders of today. As an Owner, Entrepreneur, Founder, CEO, President you've already tasted success, and you’re on a quest for more — more impact, more growth, more fulfillment! Our podcast is your companion on this journey, offering a unique recipe of inspiration, introspection and innovation blended with high-impact tactical, practical business advice. We’re here to guide you through the complexities of scaling your busine ...
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The Infinite Mountain: Exploring Boundless Ambitions with Moe Abbas | Scaling the Gap Ep 66
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42:07In today’s digital landscape, the heart of entrepreneurial success lies in continuous learning and adaptation. In the latest episode of Scaling the Gap, host Madeleine MacRae sits down with Moe Abbas, founder of Sales Ask – an AI-powered sales tool designed to revolutionize home service businesses. Together, they explore the secrets to scaling a bu…
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Beyond Blinds: The Human Code Inside a Robotic Franchise With Kristopher Stuart | Scaling the Gap Ep 65
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45:03In this episode of Scaling the Gap, host Madeleine MacRae sits down with Kristopher Stuart, co-founder of Bloomin’ Blinds, to unravel how a family-built window coverings business is rewriting the rules of franchising with AI, robotics, and a firefighter’s grit. But here’s the twist: their biggest innovation isn’t in the tech—it’s in the human conne…
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The Success Genealogy: Who’s Really Behind Your Wins? With Dr. Phil | Scaling the Gap Ep 64
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25:23Imagine standing at the edge of a breakthrough—your business, your dream, your legacy—but something holds you back. Is it fear? Lack of resources? Or have you simply never been shown the invisible architecture behind every great achievement? In this episode of Scaling the Gap, host Madeleine MacRae pulls back the curtain with Dr. Mercidieu “Phil” P…
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Fail Fast, Scale Faster: Future-Proofing a 21-Year-Old Multimedia Business with Tom Bohn
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27:29What does it take to transform a 21-year-old print magazine into a cutting-edge multimedia empire powered by AI? In this compelling episode of Scaling the Gap, host Madeleine MacRae sits down with Tom Bohn, CEO of TheHomeMag, who did exactly that—and doubled his company's revenue in just three years. In today's rapidly evolving market, standing sti…
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Scaling the Gap Ep 62 | The Wealth Mindset with Brian Kaskavalciyan
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44:01In this powerful episode of Scaling the Gap, host Madeleine MacRae, CEO and co-founder of ProQ, sits down with Brian Kaskavalciyan—entrepreneur, podcast host, and a leading voice in the home improvement industry. Brian shares his journey from launching a relationship marketing company in 2009 to becoming a trusted advisor for home improvement entre…
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Scaling the Gap Ep 61 | Freedom, Gratitude & Growth: A Modern Founder’s Playbook with Andrew Killian
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26:35In this episode of Scaling the Gap, host Madeleine MacRae has an honest and inspiring conversation with Andrew Killian, founder and CEO of HomeStead HotLeads, about what it really takes to walk away from a successful career in software engineering and build something of your own. Andrew opens up about the motivations behind his leap into entreprene…
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Scaling the Gap Ep 60 | Maximizing Business Value: Insights on Mergers and Acquisitions with Dena Jalbert
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46:28In this episode of Scaling the Gap, Madeleine MacRae sits down with Dena Jalbert, CEO of Align Business Advisory Services, for a deep dive into the world of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) for founders and family-owned businesses. Dena unpacks the emotional and strategic challenges of selling a business, stressing the importance of planning ahead, s…
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Scaling the Gap Ep 59 | How to Build a Business That Feels Like Family: Janie Sandberg’s Story
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27:18What if the secret to building a thriving business wasn’t about cutting-edge strategies or flashy marketing—but something much simpler, yet profoundly powerful? What if the key to customer loyalty, team satisfaction, and even personal fulfillment could be summed up in one word: love? In this episode of Scaling the Gap, host Madeleine MacRae sits do…
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Scaling the Gap Ep 58 | Matt Millsap: How One CEO Turned Crisis into Triumph
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33:33Being a CEO means navigating constant pressure, especially when scaling your business. Now, imagine this: you're sitting on the edge with everything on the line. The stakes are high, and failure seems inevitable. So, what do you do? In this episode of Scaling the Gap, host Madeleine MacRae sits down with Matt Millsap, CEO of Build Co. 7, to explore…
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Scaling the Gap Ep 57 | The Ultimate Assist: AI, Sports, and Sales with Gabe Lullo
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28:51In this episode of Scaling the Gap, host Madeleine MacRae welcomes Gabe Lullo, CEO of Alleyoop, a leading sales development agency. Gabe shares insights into his company's approach to sales, which focuses on prospecting and appointment setting for various businesses. The conversation explores the importance of mastering language and communication i…
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Scaling the Gap Ep 56 | Bold Leadership, Big Impact: Building Lasting Legacies with BNI CEO Mary Kennedy Thompson
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34:51In this episode of Scaling the Gap, host Madeleine MacRae sits down with Mary Kennedy Thompson, CEO of Business Network International (BNI) and a former Marine Corps officer, to explore the values-driven leadership that fuels business success. Mary shares her journey through personal and professional challenges, from navigating the loss of a mentor…
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Scaling the Gap Ep 55 | The Contractor’s Edge: Rich Harshaw on Resilience, Perspective, and Redefining Success
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38:41What if the key to standing out in a crowded market wasn’t just about what you sell, but the stories you tell? In this episode of Scaling the Gap, host Madeleine MacRae sits down with Rich Harshaw, owner of Level 10 Contractor, to explore leadership, marketing strategies for contractors, and the transformative power of storytelling. Rich delves int…
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Scaling the Gap EP 54 | The Greatest Lessons in Leadership from a Second-Generation Family Business
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30:16What really makes a leader stand out? Is it just about boosting profits, or is it about something bigger—like inspiring a team, navigating challenges, and leaving a lasting impact? In this episode of Scaling the Gap, host Madeleine MacRae sits down with Agata Olivieri of Maple Drapery and Carpet to unpack the real essence of leadership. They dive i…
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Scaling the Gap EP 53 | Cracking the Code of Marketing Strategy: Insights from James on Reaching Your Ideal Customer
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29:06How often do businesses pour countless hours, resources, and energy into their marketing campaigns, only to feel like they’re speaking to an empty room? Picture this: you’re addressing a crowd of 10,000 people, but none of them are your ideal buyers. All that time and effort are wasted because your message isn’t reaching the right audience. It’s fr…
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Scaling the Gap EP 52 | Building a Legacy of Quality, Culture, and Community at Draped and Style
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32:32Running a family-owned business is no small feat, right? How do you keep the balance between family dynamics and professional growth? What happens when an economic downturn hits—do you fight or fold? In a competitive market, is it better to sacrifice quality for price, or is holding onto your values the real secret to success? And when it comes to …
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Scaling the Gap EP 51 | Revolutionizing Home Services with a People-First Approach with James Crossway
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41:30In this inspiring podcast episode, James Crossway, owner of Premier Blinds and Designs, shares his entrepreneurial journey and passion for exceptional customer service. From his beginnings in the blinds business to his focus on leadership and mentorship, James outlines how his people-first approach drives his company’s success and growth. Premier B…
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Scaling the Gap EP 50 | Redefining Property Management as Investment Strategy with Tammy McNaught
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38:01Tammy McNaught, CEO and President of BanCal Properties, shares her journey as a property management entrepreneur with over 17 years of experience in the competitive San Francisco Bay Area real estate market. Tammy discusses her holistic approach to property management, emphasizing strategic investment over routine operations, and her commitment to …
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Scaling the Gap EP 49 | Insights on Long-Term Business Success with James Hutchings
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33:28In this episode of Scaling the Gap, host Madeleine MacRae talks with business strategist James Hutchings, who shares his decade-long journey in the business world and his insights into building sustainable growth. With a wealth of experience, James explores the critical areas that entrepreneurs should focus on to maintain longevity and success, inc…
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Scaling the Gap EP 48 | Revolutionizing Home Improvement Sales with Tim Musch
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28:17Join us as we explore Tim's journey from a young tech enthusiast to a business development expert at Paradigm Bendo. Discover how his innovations, including the Ven platform, are revolutionizing the home improvement sales experience by meeting modern consumer expectations and driving industry growth. myparadigm…
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Scaling the Gap EP 47 | Navigating Tax Challenges for Entrepreneurs with Tyler Buechler and Chris Middelton
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47:02Join Madeleine MacRae on Scaling the Gap as she hosts Chris and Tyler from "Make Taxes Fair" for a deep dive into tax strategies tailored for entrepreneurs. Chris and Tyler blend humor with expertise to make complex tax topics accessible. They cover everything from proactive tax planning to overcoming common pitfalls, offering real-life solutions t…
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Scaling the Gap EP 46 | Embracing Community, Resilience, and Balance in Business and Life with Michelle Charpentier
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35:55In this inspiring episode of Scaling the Gap, we dive into the world of brand strategy and community building with Michelle Charpentier, founder of Charp Consulting. With years of experience in helping women-owned businesses and mompreneurs find their voice, Michelle shares her journey and insights into leveraging community connections, overcoming …
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Scaling the Gap EP 45 | Building Exceptional Teams and Culture with Ryan Englin
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32:25In this episode of Scaling the Gap, host Madeleine MacRae sits down with leadership coach Ryan Englin to uncover the secrets to building exceptional teams and fostering a winning workplace culture. Ryan, a specialist in team dynamics and culture-driven hiring, shares valuable insights for leaders who want to empower their teams and create an enviro…
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Scaling the Gap EP 44 | From Skepticism to Strategic Connection with Brian Galke
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41:30In this episode of Scaling the Gap, host Madeleine MacRae introduces Brian Galke, a keynote speaker and one of the featured speakers at the inaugural Bridgepoint event in Orlando on November 22nd. Brian shares his journey from being an introverted help desk employee to a regional VP managing a $40 million business. His transformation stemmed from m…
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Scaling the Gap EP 43 | How Curiosity and Discomfort Propel Success: Lessons with Steve Sims
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26:54In the latest episode of Scaling the Gap, host Madeleine MacRae sits down with Steve Sims, acclaimed author of Bluefishing and Go For Stupid, to explore his unconventional approach to achieving success. Describing himself as an "aggravated curious child," Steve shares how curiosity, paired with action, can challenge the status quo and unlock extrao…
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Scaling the Gap EP 42 | Rachel Berlin: Empowering Women & Transforming the Flooring Industry
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37:06In this exciting episode of Scaling the Gap, host Madeleine MacRae welcomes Rachel Berlin, a bold and ambitious leader who has dedicated her life to empowering women—specifically women in the flooring industry. Join us as we dive into Rachel's inspiring journey, the lessons she's learned along the way, and how she's flourishing in both her personal…
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Scaling the Gap EP 41 | Angela shares her journey of creating a successful one-stop-shop
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30:48In this exciting episode of Scaling the Gap, Madeleine MacRae welcomes Angela Fielden, the owner of Simply Floors and Lights in Gilmer, Texas. Angela shares her journey of creating a successful one-stop-shop for flooring and lighting in a town with a population of just 4,900. Tune in to hear how she has built a boutique-style retail business, the s…
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Scaling the Gap EP 40 | The Entrepreneur’s Journey from Family to Business with Patrick Francey
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38:16In this episode of Scaling the Gap, Madeleine MacRae sits down with Patrick Francey, a successful entrepreneur, podcast host, and dedicated family man. Patrick shares his journey, discussing the balance between being a husband, father, and grandfather while managing the demands of entrepreneurship. He dives deep into the world of business, the mind…
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Scaling the Gap EP 39 | Unlocking Marketing Mastery with Mark Perel
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37:34In this exciting episode of Scaling the Gap, we welcome marketing expert Mark Perel, a long-time connection and first-time podcast guest. Mark’s journey through the world of business and marketing is filled with valuable lessons and powerful strategies. From his experience in networking groups to the incredible success he’s achieved in marketing, M…
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Scaling the Gap EP 38 | Inside the World of Award-Winning Designer Linda H. Bassert
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44:06In this inspiring episode of Scaling the Gap, we sit down with the talented Linda H. Bassert, the 2024 Designer of the Year as awarded by Vision Window Fashions Magazine. Join us as Linda shares her journey from humble beginnings to becoming a celebrated designer in the window coverings industry. Learn about the challenges she overcame, her award-w…
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Scaling the Gap EP 37 |Luann Nigara's Journey from Window Treatments to Podcasting Stardom
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33:33In this episode of "Scaling the Gap," Madeleine MacRae delves into the inspiring career of Luann, a former window treatment mogul turned podcasting powerhouse. They explore Luann's evolution from founding a successful business, Window Works, to influencing the interior design industry through her podcasts.…
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Scaling the Gap EP 36 | From Childhood Aspirations to Entrepreneurial Success
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22:59In this heartwarming episode of "Scaling the Gap," Madeleine MacRae hosts Jessica and Jacob, the entrepreneurial minds behind Get Floored, a unique flooring store in Myrtle Beach. They share their journey from childhood dreams to business reality, and the role family values play in their success. Jessica and Jacob's story is a testament to the powe…
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Scaling the Gap EP 35 | Dr. Sirisha’s Journey from Tech to Independence
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30:37In this episode of "Scaling the Gap," Madeleine MacRae hosts Dr. Sirisha, a former tech executive turned entrepreneur, who shares her multifaceted career journey, from layoffs to leadership, and her eventual leap into entrepreneurship. Dr. Kuchimanchi journey underscores the importance of resilience, strategic planning, and financial independence i…
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Scaling the Gap Ep 34 | Tina’s Leap from Nursing to Nurturing Spaces
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25:27In this episode of "Scaling the Gap," Madeleine MacRay interviews Tina Engdahl, owner of Apollo Draperies. Tina shares her journey from being a registered nurse to taking over a family-owned custom window treatment business. The discussion highlights the transformation of her career, the evolution of the business under her leadership, and the suppo…
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Scaling the Gap EP 33 | Empowering Businesses with Virtual Teams
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33:27In this episode of the podcast, Madeleine MacRay interviews Joe Rare, founder of Level 9 Virtual. Joe discusses his company's role in providing outsourced virtual services to help small businesses scale effectively. He emphasizes the benefits of virtual staffing, particularly in administrative and marketing roles, and shares how the shift to remote…
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Scaling the Gap EP 32 | Roger Magalhaes's Journey from Installer to Industry Innovator
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34:07In this episode of "Scaling the Gap," Madeleine MacRay interviews Roger Magalhaes, a serial entrepreneur in the window treatment industry. Roger shares his journey from starting as an installer to owning three companies, focusing on customer service and educating others in the industry. He highlights the importance of self-care and maintaining one'…
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Scaling the Gap Ep 31 | Jessica Harling's Journey to Streamlining Design Industry Operations
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23:45In a captivating episode of "Scaling the Gap," Madeleine MacRae hosts Jessica Harling, the visionary behind 'Behind the Design.' Together, they explore Jessica's journey from shaping family business operations to founding her own company that enhances processes within the interior design and window covering industries. Jessica Harling's story is a …
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Scaling the Gap EP 30 | Mastering Window Treatments and Business Partnerships
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22:03In this episode of "Scaling the Gap," Madeleine MacRae chats with Jessica Taylor, co-founder of Total Blinds and Window Tinting. Based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Jessica shares her entrepreneurial journey and the unique dynamics of running a multifaceted window treatment business. Jessica and her partner started with a window tint company and expa…
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Scaling the Gap Ep 29 | Empowering Franchise Growth: John Hewitt's Journey with Loyalty Brands
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27:17In a recent episode of "Scaling the Gap," John Hewitt, founder of Loyalty Brands, shares his extensive experience in building successful franchise systems. Hewitt, a seasoned entrepreneur with over 55 years in the tax service industry, now manages multiple franchise brands, with a particular focus on tax services and mobile dog grooming. Hewitt's j…
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Scaling the Gap Podcast Ep 28 | Crowdfunding Insights with Jeff "Fuzzy" Wenzel
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29:18In this episode of "Scaling the Gap," Madeleine MacRae explores the innovative world of crowdfunding with Jeff "Fuzzy" Wenzel, an early pioneer in the space. Jeff shares his journey from participating in one of the earliest Kickstarter campaigns to specializing in equity crowdfunding, where small investors can own a stake in startups for as little …
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Scaling The Gap Ep 27 | A Tale of Growth and Opportunity in Window Treatments and Installations
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24:45In this episode of "Scaling the Gap," Jeremy Nienhuser discusses his unique journey from insurance to owning a franchise in window treatments and launching a national commercial installation business. Jeremy career evolution from insurance to entrepreneurship in window treatments and large-scale installations showcases a path marked by learning, ad…
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Scaling the Gap Podcast Ep 26 | A Legacy of Customer Service and Window Treatments
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22:19Tami Kozanecki of The Blinds Man in Lexington, Kentucky, discusses her journey in the window treatment industry with Madeleine MacRae on the "Scaling the Gap" podcast. With 20 years under her belt, Tami's story is one of passion, dedication, and a deep commitment to customer service. Tami's journey with The Blinds Man illustrates the importance of …
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Scaling the Gap Podcast Ep 25 | Family Ties and Business Growth with Dennis Gehman
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24:43Dennis Gehman of Gehman Design and Remodeling shares his journey from carpenter to entrepreneur on the "Scaling the Gap" podcast. Based in Harleysville, Pennsylvania, Dennis's business focuses on residential remodeling, with a strong family-first ethos deeply integrated into his company's culture. Dennis highlights the importance of family, both pe…
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Scaling the Gap Podcast Ep 24 | Pioneering Franchise Growth in Home Improvement
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15:06Heidi Morrissey, a former teacher turned franchise mogul, oversees Kitchen Tune-Up and Bath Tune-Up. She joins Madeleine MacRae on the "Scaling the Gap" podcast to discuss her journey in franchising and cultivating a successful business culture. Heidi Morrissey’s leadership exemplifies how a strong, supportive culture and innovative problem-solving…
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Scaling the Gap Podcast Ep 23 | Navigating Generational Business Transition with Lisa Hayse
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33:11In this insightful episode of "Scaling the Gap," Madeleine MacRae hosts Lisa Hayes, the managing partner at Shermerhorn Inc., a family-owned business specializing in window treatments. Lisa shares her experiences taking over a multi-generational family business and the dynamics of transitioning leadership across generations. Lisa's journey undersco…
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Scaling the Gap Podcast Ep 22 | Embracing Change and Growth-Lessons
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35:57In a captivating episode of "Scaling the Gap," host Madeleine MacRae talks with VIN Nagara, a seasoned entrepreneur and business developer. VIN shares his journey from leading a successful window coverings business to advising in the same industry with keen insights into operations, systems, and finance. Highlights Include: Transitioning Roles: Aft…
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Scaling the Gap Podcast Ep 21 | Navigating Success and Accountability in Business
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40:26In this episode of "Scaling the Gap," Madeleine MacRae chats with Jessica Work, founder and CEO of Blinds Couture. Jessica shares her 17-year journey in the window treatment industry, which began serendipitously and evolved into a thriving business. Focusing on a client-centered approach rather than quick sales, her company stands out in the Colora…
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Scaling the Gap Podcast Ep 20 | IWCE Chat with Jose and Claudia
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13:21We have a very special edition coming to you live from the floor of the International Window Covering Expo here in Dallas. This event is a beacon for innovators, forward-thinkers, and trailblazers in the world of design and business — and we have the privilege of sitting down with some of the brightest minds in the industry. Jose and Claudia, co-fo…
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Scaling the Gap Podcast Ep 19 | IWCE Chat with Cory Creekmore
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5:03We have a very special edition coming to you live from the floor of the International Window Covering Expo here in Dallas. This event is a beacon for innovators, forward-thinkers, and trailblazers in the world of design and business — and we have the privilege of sitting down with some of the brightest minds in the industry. Cory Creekmore, owner o…
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Scaling the Gap Podcast Ep 18 | IWCE Chat with Sarah Beth Cobb
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6:45We have a very special edition coming to you live from the floor of the International Window Covering Expo here in Dallas. This event is a beacon for innovators, forward-thinkers, and trailblazers in the world of design and business — and we have the privilege of sitting down with some of the brightest minds in the industry. Sarah Beth Cobb, Digita…
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Scaling the Gap Podcast Ep 17 | IWCE Chat with Chris Williamson
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5:07We have a very special edition coming to you live from the floor of the International Window Covering Expo here in Dallas. This event is a beacon for innovators, forward-thinkers, and trailblazers in the world of design and business — and we have the privilege of sitting down with some of the brightest minds in the industry. Chris Williamson, Presi…
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