Ever wondered how a young actor from Pittsburgh can make it big on Broadway? In this episode, we sit down with Michael Campayno, a performer and entrepreneur who founded The Collective, a groundbreaking theater arts program. Michael shares his roots, growing up as the youngest of six in a family passionate about the arts. You'll hear about his education at Central Catholic High School, his transformative years at Carnegie Mellon University, and getting his big Break! Learn about the broader impact of theater education on personal growth and its surprising relevance in the business world.

Michael's story takes an exhilarating turn as he recounts his early career opportunities, including a rigorous audition process for NBC's Sound of Music: Live with Carrie Underwood while still a student at CMU.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to navigate Broadway, Michael paints a vivid picture of the highs and lows. From his audition experiences for "Wicked" to his Broadway debut, he emphasizes the importance of self-validation and staying true to oneself. Get an insider's look at the demanding schedule of eight shows a week, the camaraderie among Broadway professionals, and the challenges of keeping performances fresh. Michael also reflects on the state of Broadway today, stressing the need for productions that not only entertain but also inspire and evoke profound emotions.

We discuss Michael's dream to train the next generation of young artists as they pursue the art of performance at his company, The Collective. We break down the importance of giving students the necessary tools to find their passion both now, and as they audition for college programs.

Join us for a conversation that’s as inspiring as it is informative, brimming with insights for aspiring performers and theater enthusiasts alike.

Imagine the life of a serial entrepreneur, one who's navigated the rollercoaster of building businesses with a heart as big as his ambition. That's the story of my good friend John Diziak, a man whose journey is a tapestry woven with hard work, strategic savvy, and a dash of humor. From the simplicity of a paper route to the complexities of owning multiple ventures, John's narrative is not just inspiring—it's a masterclass in entrepreneurship.

Our conversation takes us through a transformative era in business, where John's company, Washington Reprographics, evolved into the innovative PrintScape. It's a tale of rebranding, strategic growth, and a deep-seated culture of employee care. But it's not just about the corporate world; He's got stories to share, like discovering the joy of playing music at 54 with the J Craiger Band or bringing his entrepreneurial perspective to a bank's boardroom.

Then, there's the heartwarming genesis of Fresh Start Cafe, a venture that carries the spirit of community at its core. Birthed from tragedy and a business card, this coffee shop transcends being just a place for a caffeine fix. It's an emblem of connection, mentoring, and the legacy of Father George. Wrapped up in the aroma of coffee is the celebration of John's commitment to community service, proving that business isn't just about the bottom line—it's about people, purpose, and the power of giving back. Join us as we explore these stories of resilience, laughter, and community impact that are sure to leave you with a fresh perspective on the entrepreneurial spirit.

When paper routes evolve into culinary routes, you know you're in for a story of true transformation. Join me as we sit down with Jason Capps, the chef who's stirring up the entrepreneurial world with his blend of flavor and business savvy. From his early days hustling in Washington, PA, to creating a mega-successful event venue, and now his time as a travel entrepreneur, Jason’s tale is spiced with childhood memories and a generous helping of life lessons that prove everyday skills can be the secret sauce to success.

Have you ever wondered about the magic and mayhem behind the curtains of a bustling catering business? Jason whisks us through the layers of his food ventures, from Greco's Gourmet to Go’s soccer mom clientele to the tailored elegance of Bella Sera’s events. We'll feast on tales of accidental discoveries, laugh over culinary misadventures, and learn how resilience is just as important as a sharp chef's knife in this high-pressure, high-reward industry. It’s a flavorful journey that showcases the evolution of Jason's businesses and the art of creating memorable dining experiences against all odds.

Finally, we uncork the richer notes of life with Jason's love for travel and cultural exploration. Imagine the aroma of authentic Italian cuisine wafting through the air as we recount 'Jason's Journeys' into the heart of Italy, and even further afield to Southeast Asia. With every step off the beaten path, we reveal the value in getting lost, the beauty of local traditions, and the shared joy of uncovering the world's hidden treasures alongside our entrepreneurial epicurean, Jason Capps. Whether you're a foodie, a traveler, or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode promises a taste of the extraordinary and an invitation to savor the journey of life.

Have you ever wondered what it takes to turn a teenage grass-cutting gig into a six-figure business? Our guest, Jason Tapolci, is here to guide us through his remarkable transformation from lawn entrepreneur to Mentorpreneur. We kick things off with a burst of nostalgia, chatting about our high school days and the unexpected delight of parenting through the lens of karate classes. Jason then peels back the curtain on his early entrepreneurial exploits, revealing the tough love financial lessons that came with a lawn tractor and a loan from his dad with a 6% interest tag.

Navigating the tricky waters of a family business can be a herculean task, yet Jason's journey with Computer Comfort showcases resilience in the face of adversity. We delve into the stories behind their strategic partnerships with ISPs and how innovation not only saved the family business but also carved out a new niche in the market. Jason shares the personal growth that comes from facing the word "can't," and we candidly discuss the challenges that come with stepping into the shoes of a business owner within a family enterprise. This part of our conversation is a deep dive into what it really takes to keep a business afloat—and thriving—through thick and thin.

The episode rounds off with an exploration of the emotional rollercoaster that follows the sale of a business, the search for purpose, and the pursuit of fulfillment that goes beyond financial success. Jason's tale doesn't conclude with the final sale; instead, he tells us about the intrinsic joy found in mentoring and giving back. We wrap things up on a light-hearted note, joking about how blending business with karate might just be the ultimate entrepreneurial survival strategy. So buckle up, tune in, and maybe, just like us, you'll discover that mentorship and martial arts can go hand in hand in the entrepreneurial dojo!