『Neil on Business Podcast』のカバーアート

Neil on Business Podcast

Neil on Business Podcast

著者: Neil Darling
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Real talk. Real lessons. Real leadership. Hosted by entrepreneur and community builder Neil Darling, Neil on Business is a no-fluff podcast for people who are ready to do business on their own terms. Born from the collaborative energy of RingSpaces—a coworking and event hub in Fredericksburg—this show dives deep into what it really takes to lead, grow, and build in today’s business world. Each episode features raw, insightful conversations with entrepreneurs, leaders, and especially veterans who’ve turned high-pressure life experience into powerful business success. Whether you’re scaling a company, starting from scratch, or simply hungry to lead better, this podcast delivers straight-shooting stories, real strategy, and bold takeaways. What you can expect: Candid conversations with entrepreneurs and former Marines turned business leaders Actionable advice on leadership, mindset, and business growth No jargon, no fluff—just hard-earned wisdom and powerful storytelling Big questions that challenge you to think, build, and lead differently If you’re ready to cut through the noise and grow on your own terms, you’re in the right place.2025 出世 就職活動 経済学
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  • The Greatest Journey from Tragedy to Triumph in Business with Justin Lapier
    2025/06/06
    In this episode of "Neil on Business," host Neil Darling interviews Justin Lapeer, founder and CEO of Sync Devait. Justin shares his journey from military service and overcoming personal tragedy to building a tech company that empowers small businesses. The conversation covers his challenges with a past legal issue, his vision for accessible software solutions, and the importance of resilience, company culture, and giving people second chances. Justin’s story highlights perseverance, leadership, and the drive to create meaningful impact for both his team and the broader small business community. About Justin Lapier Justin isn't just a leader; he's a pioneer in the software industry. His vision for innovation and knack for creating user-friendly, scalable solutions have helped hundreds of businesses streamline their operations. He's been in the game long enough to know what works and what doesn't, making him an invaluable asset to any project. Justin’s Background and Early Life (00:01:14) Justin shares his upbringing in Fredericksburg, family background, and high school years. Military Service and Early Adulthood (00:03:48) Justin discusses graduating high school, joining the Navy, and his role as an aviation electrician. Transition from Navy to Civilian Life (00:04:39) Justin talks about leaving the Navy, going back to school in Germany, and working various jobs. First Steps into Tech and Applebee’s Years (00:05:07) Justin describes working at Applebee’s, other odd jobs, and pursuing a computer networking degree. Breaking into Tech: Intuit Opportunity (00:05:59) Justin explains applying for tech jobs, getting offers from Intuit and his brother’s company. Landing the Intuit Job and Setback (00:07:12) Justin details the Intuit interview, job offer, and last-minute background check issue. Legal Trouble and Its Impact (00:09:09) Justin reveals his past manslaughter charge from a car accident during his Navy years. Present Day: Sync Devait and Buildable (00:10:21) Justin introduces his current companies, Sync Devait and Buildable, and their missions. Building a Billion-Dollar Business (00:11:28) Justin shares his vision for Buildable, aiming to help small businesses and scale massively. What is Buildable? (00:12:47) Justin explains Buildable as a customizable, no-code business system platform for small businesses. Product Launch and Local Focus (00:13:48) Justin discusses Buildable’s launch, AI integration, and plans to support local businesses. Real Estate Ventures (00:15:05) Justin talks about starting a real estate company with his brother and buying commercial property. Revisiting the Legal Past (00:15:19) The conversation returns to Justin’s car accident in 2004 and its aftermath. The Accident and Its Aftermath (00:16:06) Justin recounts the details of the accident, loss of friends, and emotional/psychological impact. Legal Proceedings and Recovery (00:21:48) Justin describes the legal process, jail time, and the struggle to recover emotionally. Transition to Applebee’s and Job Search Struggles (00:23:13) Justin talks about post-jail life, depression, and difficulty finding tech jobs due to his record. Turning Point: Taking a Chance at Intuit (00:28:25) Justin’s father encourages him to show up at Intuit despite setbacks, leading to a career breakthrough. Corporate Career and Growth at Intuit (00:31:16) Justin shares his work ethic, promotions, and training roles at Intuit. Moving into No-Code Development (00:32:29) Justin explains his transition to Quick Base, learning development, and the no-code software movement. The Vision for Buildable and AI Integration (00:33:51) Justin details how Buildable leverages AI to make no-code solutions truly accessible for small businesses. Entrepreneurial Journey: From Employee to Founder (00:35:25) Justin describes leaving Quick Base, joining a partner company, and eventually founding Sync Devait. Client Success Story: National Drying Technologies (00:37:04) Justin shares how his systems helped a client grow and get acquired for $100 million. Business Philosophy: Consultative Sales and Relationships (00:38:04) Justin discusses his approach to sales, focusing on trust and long-term client relationships. Giving Back: Speaking to Young Drivers (00:40:00) Justin talks about sharing his story with young drivers to prevent similar tragedies. Personal Growth and Openness (00:41:56) Justin reflects on opening up about his past, the support from his wife, and helping others. Impact and Redemption Through Business (00:42:51) Justin finds meaning in giving opportunities to others and making a positive impact. Reflections on Responsibility and Hypocrisy (00:43:22) Neil discusses societal judgment, personal responsibility, and empathy for Justin’s journey. Ambitions for the Future and Community Impact (00:45:36) Justin shares his dream of owning a professional soccer team and helping small businesses. Spirituality and Healing ...
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    59 分
  • From the Mat to the Market: Sam McGregor on Wrestling, Jewelry, and Insurance
    2025/06/06
    In this episode of "Neil on Business," host Neil Darling interviews Sam McGregor of Bracco, a jewelry and watch insurance company. Sam shares his journey from wrestling at UVA to careers in automotive, jewelry, and insurance. They discuss the value of wrestling in building discipline, the importance of trust in the jewelry industry, and trends like lab-created diamonds. Sam explains how Bracco streamlines jewelry insurance and emphasizes strong customer service. The episode offers insights into career adaptability, sales skills, and the evolving jewelry market, all while highlighting the significance of community and personal connections. Key Topics Discussed Early beginnings for Sam McGregor shares how hockey and wrestling became his passionWalking on at the University of Virginia as wrestlerThe lessons the training and the lessons learned from the matHow he went from recovering from surgery to joining the jewelry businessCutting his teeth in the diamond world High School & Transition to Wrestling (00:01:44) Sam discusses his switch from hockey to wrestling, his high school years, and how wrestling became his main sport. Wrestling Philosophy & College Experience (00:03:19) Sam explains what he loves about wrestling, the team and individual aspects, and his journey as a walk-on at UVA. Family Heritage & Tattoo Story (00:04:20) Sam talks about his Scottish heritage, family stories, and the story behind his McGregor tattoo. Wrestling at UVA: Challenges & Growth (00:07:19) Sam details his weight classes, the challenges of college wrestling, and the lessons learned from the sport. Making the UVA Wrestling Team (00:09:04) Sam describes the process of joining the UVA wrestling team, the tryout experience, and working his way up the ranks. First College Match & "Rudy" Moment (00:12:09) Sam recounts his first official match for UVA, the excitement, and support from friends and teammates. College Life & Academics (00:13:44) Sam discusses his major in foreign affairs, academic challenges, and balancing wrestling with studies. Early Career: Geico & Sales Experience (00:14:14) Sam talks about graduating in 2012, starting at Geico, and learning sales and resilience in a high-pressure environment. Transition to Supply Chain at Continental (00:16:04) Sam explains moving to Continental, his role in supply chain, and the plant’s operations in Culpeper. Continental Plant Operations & Products (00:18:02) Details about Continental’s products, plant consolidation, and Sam’s responsibilities as account manager. Entry into Jewelry Industry (00:19:58) Sam shares how he was recruited into the jewelry business by a friend, learning the trade, and managing Dad Jewelers. Jewelry Business & Family Legacy (00:22:22) Sam discusses the history of Dad Jewelers, the Eller family, and the values of a family-run business. Jewelry Training & Gemology (00:24:07) Sam describes his training at GIA, his focus on business operations, and obtaining an AJP certificate. Advice for Jewelry Shoppers (00:25:12) Sam gives tips for buying jewelry, the importance of research, and working with reputable jewelers. Transition from Jewelry to Braco (00:27:59) Sam explains his decision to leave jewelry retail, his interest in business operations, and joining Braco. Role at Braco: Jewelry & Event Insurance (00:30:26) Sam outlines his current role at Braco, B2B sales, appraisal software, and the launch of wedding/event insurance. Wedding & Event Insurance Details (00:32:19) Discussion of Braco’s wedding/event insurance, coverage options, and how venues and planners can partner. How to Obtain Jewelry & Event Insurance (00:35:10) Sam explains the process for consumers and venues to get insurance, online quoting, and discounts. Braco’s Underwriting & Reputation (00:37:01) Details about Braco’s underwriters, coverage quality, and maintaining high customer reviews. Jewelry Insurance Pricing & Coverage (00:38:31) Sam discusses the cost of jewelry insurance, coverage benefits, and comparison to homeowner’s policies. Appraisals & Technology in Jewelry Insurance (00:39:30) How Braco streamlines appraisals, integrates with jewelers, and leverages technology for efficiency. Lab-Grown vs. Natural Diamonds (00:41:45) Sam explains the differences, market trends, and insurance considerations for lab-created diamonds. Sales Career Advice (00:46:15) Sam offers advice for aspiring sales professionals, emphasizing phone sales, resilience, and skill development. Ring Spaces Experience & Community (00:48:06) Sam shares his positive experience working at Ring Spaces, the benefits of coworking, and community involvement. Hockey Involvement & Local Community (00:50:04) Sam discusses his hockey activities, local leagues, and plans for a Ring Spaces-sponsored team. QUOTES FROM THE EPISODE Sam McGregor "I realized very quickly, without any ice around whatsoever, I wasn't going to make it to the NHL as a five-foot-six, overweight kid. So I took ...
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    56 分
  • From Cobra Pilot to Crisis Leader: A Marine's 9/11 Experience in the White House Bunker with Robert Darling
    2025/05/30
    Episode Summary In this extraordinary episode of "Neil On Business," host Neil Darling interviews his brother, Lt. Colonel Robert J. Darling (USMC, Ret.), sharing one of the most compelling military-to-business transformation stories ever told. Robert's journey takes us from his decision to become a Marine after the 1983 Beirut bombing, through combat operations in Desert Storm and Somalia, to his role as a presidential helicopter pilot, culminating in his presence in the White House bunker during the September 11th attacks. As the Airlift Operations Officer that day, Robert witnessed firsthand the breakdown of the National Command Authority and the critical decision-making around potentially shooting down Flight 93. This pivotal experience drove him to build Flash Emergency Management, a crisis communications company helping businesses prepare for and respond to emergencies. Robert's story demonstrates how the most intense military experiences can translate into entrepreneurial success when focused on solving real-world problems. About Lt. Colonel Robert J. Darling: Lt. Colonel Robert J. Darling is a retired Marine Corps helicopter pilot who served over 20 years, including combat deployments in Desert Shield/Desert Storm and Somalia. A graduate of Iona College with a degree in economics, he initially planned to become a stockbroker but was inspired to join the Marines after the 1983 Beirut bombing. Robert flew AH-1T Cobra attack helicopters and later served with Marine Helicopter Squadron One (HMX-1), the presidential helicopter squadron, flying Presidents Clinton and Bush. On September 11, 2001, as the Airlift Operations Officer in the White House, he was ordered into the Presidential Emergency Operations Center (bunker) where he spent 24 hours coordinating logistics and witnessed Vice President Cheney's critical decision-making during the crisis. After retiring in 2007, Robert founded Quantitative Analytics (government consulting) and later Flash Emergency Management, a crisis communications company. He is the author of "24 Hours Inside the President's Bunker: 9-11-01" and is a sought-after keynote speaker on crisis leadership and emergency preparedness. Key Topics Discussed: Military Inspiration: How the 1983 Beirut bombing motivated a college economics student to become a MarineCobra Pilot Training: The selection process and path to becoming an attack helicopter pilotDesert Shield/Storm Experience: Early career combat deployment and lessons in logistics coordinationSomalia Operations: Pre-Black Hawk Down missions and the near-capture of General AididPresidential Squadron Service: Flying Presidents Clinton and Bush with Marine Helicopter Squadron One (HMX-1)September 11th Crisis Response: Being thrust into the White House bunker as the National Command AuthorityFlight 93 Decision Making: Witnessing Vice President Cheney's authorization to shoot down civilian aircraftCommand Authority Breakdown: How the absence of key leaders created chaos in crisis responseCrisis Leadership Lessons: The importance of compartmentalization, clear communication, and empowered decision-makingBusiness Transition: Moving from military service to government consulting to entrepreneurshipFlash Emergency Management: Building a crisis communications platform based on 9/11 lessons learnedEmergency Preparedness Philosophy: Why businesses need proactive planning rather than reactive responses Powerful Quotes from the Episode "There's an old saying in the Marine Corps, never walk when you can ride and never ride when you can fly. And especially in helicopters, you know, and we support the grunts, we support the infantry. That's our mission." "If everyone just focused on what their job is, instead of trying to understand the entire strategic landscape, everything becomes much easier. You just got to have a lot of trust in your leadership." "We for a brief moment in the bunker thought we shot United Flight 93 down on orders from the vice president... We just shot down a civilian airliner. Immediately, everybody was like the air sucked out of the room." "My adrenaline was so high. I was in the middle of it. I really wanted to compartmentalize and do my job the best way I could. I wanted to be value add to Vice President Cheney." "Our country isn't great because of our US military. Our country is truly great because of the civilians and Americans that will put everything aside in times of crisis or times of emergency and just save the life of a complete stranger." "We literally walked away from each other decompressed, pulled it all into perspective. And, you know, I tell everybody that I have such pride in our country because we all knew we have the best military in the world. But 9-11 said we have the best civilians in the world." "Most companies don't come back after that. You lose trust in your leadership when you get scared or you don't have a plan, you realize I'm very vulnerable here, maybe this is not the best company for me...
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    1 時間 24 分

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