The Podcast · 88 Episodes
Made Right Here is about the founders and leaders in our community whose stories don't get told — the people quietly building things that matter. It's the companion to everything else I do: The TransformationOS is what I've learned about helping organizations run; this is where I go to keep learning from the people doing the building.
The Archive
Ep 88 · Jan 6, 2025
In this second part of the Made Right Here podcast, host Paul Sponsia chats with Dunkin’ Donuts magnate Dave Baumgartner, uncovering the journey behind his 89-store empire. Baumgartner shares insights on risk-taking, friendships that fuel success, and expanding amidst challenges. Tune in for an inspiring story of entrepreneurship!
Listen →Ep 87 · Dec 23, 2024
Join Paul as he kicks off with Dave Baumgartner, the driving force behind one of the fastest-growing Dunkin’ franchises in the U.S. Discover Dave’s journey from Kansas roots, college friendships that birthed Bluemont Group, and entrepreneurial insights. A tale of passion, resilience, and philanthropy that inspires!
Listen →Ep 86 · Dec 9, 2024
In this episode, host Paul sits down with James and Mike from Patriot Talent Solutions in a riveting conversation about their journey from military service to founding a successful business in Knoxville. Learn about the formation of their company, their commitment to hiring veterans, and the invaluable leadership skills they bring from their service. Don’t miss this compelling tale of friendship, business, and the unyielding spirit of veterans shaping the tech industry!
Listen →Ep 85 · Nov 25, 2024
Tune into The Mate Right Here Podcast for an engaging episode featuring James Luby and Mike Teske of Patriot Talent. From their shared Army days to running an IT staffing firm, discover their journey of brotherhood, resilience, and entrepreneurship. A must-listen for inspiring military transition stories!
Listen →Ep 84 · Nov 11, 2024
Join Paul for an inspiring dive into George Ewart’s journey of resilience and innovation. From steering his architecture firm through tough times like the 2008 recession and COVID, to turning his BBQ passion into award-winning success with Dead End BBQ. Discover growth insights, wild barbecue stories, and learn about George’s upcoming cookbook. An episode filled with flavorful stories and insights into thriving against the odds!
Listen →Ep 83 · Nov 5, 2024
We talk to George Ewart, founder of George Ewart Architects. Hear George’s inspiring journey from West Virginia to building a successful firm, fostering lifelong friendships with NFL legends, and raising a family. A must-listen for anyone interested in life-changing stories, architecture, and resilience!
Listen →Ep 82 · Jun 24, 2024
In this eye-opening episode host Paul Sponcia sits down with Josh Andrews from Finish Point.
Listen →Ep 81 · Jun 10, 2024
In this eye-opening episode host Paul Sponcia sits down with Josh Andrews from Finish Point. Journey through Josh’s fascinating childhood, filled with globe-trotting adventures and life lessons, to his rapid rise as a master carpenter. Hear about the pivotal advice that shaped his career and why Finish Point stands out in the high-end construction market. A must-listen for anyone intrigued by craftsmanship, perseverance, and the intricacies of building a thriving business from the ground up.
Listen →Ep 80 · May 29, 2024
Don’t miss Part 2 of the “Made Right Here” podcast with Shawn McLeod, President of Axle Logistics. Shawn shares his journey from questioning his move to Axle, overcoming early challenges, and earning trust to leading a company through exceptional growth. His humility, dedication to family, and passion for his team and customers make this episode a must-listen for aspiring leaders and entrepreneurs. Tune in to hear how Axle’s unique culture and Shawn’s commitment have driven success and resilience.
Listen →Ep 79 · May 15, 2024
In this compelling episode of Made Right Here, host Paul Sponcia of The IT Company welcomes Shawn McLeod, President of Axle Logistics. Shawn shares his journey from introvert to industry leader, detailing his meticulous approach to building honest relationships and his pivotal life moments—inspired by his tough-loving mom and a stern wake-up call from his grandfather. Get ready for an episode that not only unveils the passion behind Axle’s success but also offers an honest look at the trials and triumphs of professional growth. Tune in to hear Shawn’s transformation and wisdom on sustaining company culture in the fast-paced logistics world.
Listen →Ep 78 · Apr 8, 2024
In this second part of the interview, George Wallace discusses growing his family's real estate business with his brother Jim Wallace for over 50 years. He shared their experience of transitioning from a franchise model to becoming Wallace & Wallace, an independent enterprise. George talks about the complementary balance he and his brother provided for the company, with George’s visionary thinking and Jim providing the financial and ethical balance. Throughout the podcast, George enlightens listeners on his personal growth, his learned empathy, and the way his experiences and faith have shaped his perspective and belief systems. Foremost amongst these is learning that progress sometimes requires more than individuals 'pulling themselves up by their bootstraps.
Listen →Ep 77 · Mar 25, 2024
Host Paul Sponcia and guest George Wallace discuss George's early life, his entrepreneurial family background in East Tennessee, and his own small businesses like a lawn mowing startup at age 10. He credits men he encountered along his way for shaping his identity. George delved into landscape design after attending Webb school and West High School in Knoxville, resulting in an ornamental horticulture degree from the University of Tennessee. He later launched a landscaping business but left it in 1983 due to financial feasibility concerns. He also recalls the snowy childhood he spent in Greenville, departing from familial tradition by opting a different school instead of UT, doing two businesses in landscape design after graduating, and meeting Stephanie, his then-girlfriend, in a church.
Listen →