In this episode of Operations Excellence, host Mark O’Donnell sits down with Mark Roberts, co-founder and Executive Vice President of Staff Leasing, to talk about 36 years of helping companies streamline HR, payroll, benefits, and compliance. From starting with a single desk and a phone to building a Fortune 500–level benefits package for small and mid-sized businesses, Mark shares how Staff Leasing becomes a true extension of their clients’ teams. They discuss the challenges of starting a business, the importance of listening to clients’ needs, how company culture impacts talent retention, and why great customer service still matters. Packed with real-world insights, this conversation is a masterclass in building long-term business relationships and adding value that goes far beyond the bottom line.

In Episode 7 of Operations Excellence, host Mark O'Donnell welcomes two passionate guests who embody entrepreneurial grit and creative reinvention.

First, meet Zach Premo, founder of Ads on the Go, whose journey from small-town dropout to digital billboard entrepreneur is anything but traditional. Zach shares how he rebuilt his business from the ground up after a painful split, why small businesses deserve big attention, and the lessons he’s learned about leadership, failure, and relentless persistence.

Then, in Part Two, Mark sits down with producer and performer Mike Brindisi. From national music tours and stand-up comedy to near burnout and rediscovery, Mike opens up about chasing dreams, battling self-doubt, and finally finding fulfillment through relationships, self-awareness, and saying “yes” to new opportunities.

Whether you're a young entrepreneur, a creative professional, or just someone who needs a reminder to keep going—this episode is for you.

In this special two-part episode, host Mark O'Donnell welcomes back his first returning guest, Stephanie Zumbuhl of Abacus Grant Services, LLC. Stephanie shares how her business has rapidly scaled through the power of referrals, strategic partnerships, and a renewed focus on purpose-driven growth. From moving into new office space to building a dream team, Stephanie opens up about the growing pains and personal revelations that come with being a founder navigating rapid success.

In the second half, Mark sits down with Drew Brooks of RB Woodcraft—a family-run architectural millwork business with nearly 50 years of history. Drew reflects on his leadership journey, the company’s cultural transformation, and how they’re creating lasting client relationships by focusing on trust, adaptability, and service. He also shares how leadership development helped shape both his career and RB Woodcraft’s next generation of leaders.

Whether you're growing a business, leading a team, or just trying to find balance in a fast-paced world, this episode is packed with valuable lessons in growth, grit, and operational excellence.