This week, Derek sits down with Chris Shihadeh, CEO of Skylab Digital, who shares his entrepreneurial journey, insights on navigating the competitive Medicare space, and the importance of financial literacy in business. Chris discusses the significance of building a strong team, identifying A, B, and C players in hiring, and empowering employees to solve problems. He emphasizes the role of data in digital marketing, managing cash flow in seasonal businesses, and leveraging debt for growth. The conversation concludes with key takeaways for aspiring entrepreneurs, highlighting the importance of understanding financials and learning to say no to distractions.

Takeaways:

Chris started his entrepreneurial journey at a young age.
Financial literacy is crucial for business success.
Building a strong team requires learning from painful lessons.
Identifying A, B, and C players is key in hiring.
Empowering employees to solve problems fosters ownership.
Data-driven decision-making is essential in digital marketing.
Managing cash flow is critical in seasonal businesses.
Leveraging debt can be a powerful tool for growth.
Saying no to distractions is vital for focus.
Understanding your financials is non-negotiable for success.

About TreMonte and Traversing Entrepreneurship Podcast

Traversing Entrepreneurship is a show for and about business owners in Traverse City, Michigan and beyond. In each episode, host Derek Dall’Olmo sits down with local business owners and the professionals who serve them to talk about business building, life, money, taxes, family — and all the ups and downs that come with doing something different. Join us to hear their stories and lessons learned — and to get inspired about what might be possible in your own business.

Derek is the founder of TreMonte Financial Consultants, LLC and TreMonte TreMonte Tax Solutions, LLC (together referred to as “TreMonte”). TreMonte works with business owners and entrepreneurs to develop a proactive tax strategy that maximizes after-tax profits. It is TreMonte’s goal to bridge the gap between Financial Advisors and Accountants by serving as CFO to their clients.

This show is for informational purposes only and should not be viewed as personalized financial, investment, tax, or legal advice. You should always consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific legal or tax situation.

Please email Derek Dall’Olmo at derek@tremontefinancial.com with questions and comments or to schedule a one-on-one conversation.

TreMonte Facebook Page | Follow Derek on LinkedIn

Subscribe:
Apple Podcast | Google Podcasts | Amazon Podcasts | Stitcher | Spotify | Deezer | TuneIn

If you enjoy the show, please leave a review on iTunes to help others discover the podcast.

In this episode of Traversing Entrepreneurship, Derek Dall’Olmo interviews Eric Stopper, an e-commerce expert and investor, to explore the highs and lows of entrepreneurship. From his early ventures in nanotechnology to his current success with Profitable, Eric shares candid insights into the challenges and triumphs of building a business. Discover how meditation, self-reflection, and a focus on family have shaped his journey.

Key Moments:

• Eric's transition from nanotechnology to e-commerce and investing.
• The importance of self-discovery and meditation in entrepreneurship.
• How Eric balances business with family life.
• Insights into creating cash-flowing assets and financial freedom.

Eric Stopper is an e-commerce entrepreneur and investor. Connect with him on LinkedIn or visit his websites: profitable.com, legendaryitems.com, and zealothealth.com.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts and share it with your business-minded friends. For more insights, visit tramontetax.com to schedule a chat with Derek.

#Entrepreneurship #Ecommerce #BusinessSuccess #FinancialFreedom

About TreMonte and Traversing Entrepreneurship Podcast

Traversing Entrepreneurship is a show for and about business owners in Traverse City, Michigan and beyond. In each episode, host Derek Dall’Olmo sits down with local business owners and the professionals who serve them to talk about business building, life, money, taxes, family — and all the ups and downs that come with doing something different. Join us to hear their stories and lessons learned — and to get inspired about what might be possible in your own business.

Derek is the founder of TreMonte Financial Consultants, LLC and TreMonte TreMonte Tax Solutions, LLC (together referred to as “TreMonte”). TreMonte works with business owners and entrepreneurs to develop a proactive tax strategy that maximizes after-tax profits. It is TreMonte’s goal to bridge the gap between Financial Advisors and Accountants by serving as CFO to their clients.

This show is for informational purposes only and should not be viewed as personalized financial, investment, tax, or legal advice. You should always consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific legal or tax situation.

Please email Derek Dall’Olmo at derek@tremontefinancial.com with questions and comments or to schedule a one-on-one conversation.

TreMonte Facebook Page | Follow Derek on LinkedIn

Subscribe:
Apple Podcast | Google Podcasts | Amazon Podcasts | Stitcher | Spotify | Deezer | TuneIn

If you enjoy the show, please leave a review on iTunes to help others discover the podcast.

In this episode Derek sits down with Beau Eckstein, owner of Business Ownership Coach and Emerge Lending Group. With over 26 years of experience, Beau shares his journey from a struggling student to a successful entrepreneur, offering insights into funding strategies, franchise consulting, and the importance of tax strategies. Discover how Beau's experiences, including a stint on HGTV, have shaped his approach to business and life.

Key Topics:
Beau's entrepreneurial journey and early challenges
The role of SBA loans and franchise consulting in business growth
Insights into tax strategies and financial planning
The impact of social media on business development Beau's philosophy on lifelong learning and personal growth

Guest Information:
Beau Eckstein: Business Ownership Coach and Emerge Lending Group Website: BeauEckstein.com Book a Call: BookWithBeau.com

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts and share it with your business-minded friends. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and insights on the Traversing Entrepreneurship podcast.

#Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #SBAloans #FranchiseConsulting

About TreMonte and Traversing Entrepreneurship Podcast

Traversing Entrepreneurship is a show for and about business owners in Traverse City, Michigan and beyond. In each episode, host Derek Dall’Olmo sits down with local business owners and the professionals who serve them to talk about business building, life, money, taxes, family — and all the ups and downs that come with doing something different. Join us to hear their stories and lessons learned — and to get inspired about what might be possible in your own business.

Derek is the founder of TreMonte Financial Consultants, LLC and TreMonte TreMonte Tax Solutions, LLC (together referred to as “TreMonte”). TreMonte works with business owners and entrepreneurs to develop a proactive tax strategy that maximizes after-tax profits. It is TreMonte’s goal to bridge the gap between Financial Advisors and Accountants by serving as CFO to their clients.

This show is for informational purposes only and should not be viewed as personalized financial, investment, tax, or legal advice. You should always consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific legal or tax situation.

Please email Derek Dall’Olmo at derek@tremontefinancial.com with questions and comments or to schedule a one-on-one conversation.

Join host Derek as he sits down with Kasim Aslam, founder of Solutions 8, to explore the highs and lows of entrepreneurship. Kasim shares his journey from humble beginnings to building a successful Google ad agency, discussing the importance of talent acquisition, the impact of AI on business, and the lessons learned from his failures and successes.

Key Takeaways:

• Kasim's unique approach to hiring and retaining top talent.
• Insights into the Pareto Principle and its application in business.
• The role of AI in shaping the future of entrepreneurship.
• Personal stories of resilience and growth from Kasim's career.
• Kasim Aslam is the founder of Solutions 8 and Pareto Talent. He is an award-winning hiring expert and bestselling author. Learn more about his work at KASIM.me.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts and share it with your entrepreneurial friends. For more insights, visit tramontetax.com to schedule a chat with Derek.

#Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #AI #TalentAcquisition

About TreMonte and Traversing Entrepreneurship Podcast

Traversing Entrepreneurship is a show for and about business owners in Traverse City, Michigan and beyond. In each episode, host Derek Dall’Olmo sits down with local business owners and the professionals who serve them to talk about business building, life, money, taxes, family — and all the ups and downs that come with doing something different. Join us to hear their stories and lessons learned — and to get inspired about what might be possible in your own business.

Derek is the founder of TreMonte Financial Consultants, LLC and TreMonte TreMonte Tax Solutions, LLC (together referred to as “TreMonte”). TreMonte works with business owners and entrepreneurs to develop a proactive tax strategy that maximizes after-tax profits. It is TreMonte’s goal to bridge the gap between Financial Advisors and Accountants by serving as CFO to their clients.

This show is for informational purposes only and should not be viewed as personalized financial, investment, tax, or legal advice. You should always consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific legal or tax situation.

Please email Derek Dall’Olmo at derek@tremontefinancial.com with questions and comments or to schedule a one-on-one conversation.

In this episode, Derek chats with Kate Volman—CEO, speaker, and big believer in helping people dream bigger. From her early days at the Chamber of Commerce to leading Floyd Consulting, Kate shares what she’s learned about people, growth, and the messy (but rewarding) work of leadership.

They talk about the real stuff—why most business problems are actually people problems, how leaders can create space for personal dreams at work, and why being creative isn’t optional anymore. Whether you lead a team or are part of one, this is the kind of conversation that makes you pause and think about how you show up—for your business and your people.

In This Episode:

• Why “dream management” might be the leadership superpower no one’s talking about
• How Kate’s experience at the Chamber shaped the way she builds relationships
• What the “iceberg” analogy reveals about business challenges
• Why most disengaged employees are really just unfulfilled people
• How asking one simple question can change your team culture
• The truth about partnerships—and what to know before diving in
• Why good leaders care about more than just productivity
• How to focus on strengths and still grow your business the right way

Connect with Kate:

Connect with Kate: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katevolman
Learn more about Floyd Consulting: floydconsulting.com

About TreMonte and Traversing Entrepreneurship Podcast

Traversing Entrepreneurship is a show for and about business owners in Traverse City, Michigan and beyond. In each episode, host Derek Dall’Olmo sits down with local business owners and the professionals who serve them to talk about business building, life, money, taxes, family — and all the ups and downs that come with doing something different. Join us to hear their stories and lessons learned — and to get inspired about what might be possible in your own business.

Derek is the founder of TreMonte Financial Consultants, LLC and TreMonte TreMonte Tax Solutions, LLC (together referred to as “TreMonte”). TreMonte works with business owners and entrepreneurs to develop a proactive tax strategy that maximizes after-tax profits. It is TreMonte’s goal to bridge the gap between Financial Advisors and Accountants by serving as CFO to their clients.

This show is for informational purposes only and should not be viewed as personalized financial, investment, tax, or legal advice. You should always consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific legal or tax situation.

Please email Derek Dall’Olmo at derek@tremontefinancial.com with questions and comments or to schedule a one-on-one conversation.

Derek sits down with Sarah Noel Block, the brains behind Tiny Marketing and the Tiny Marketing Club—a go-to resource for indie consultants who want smart, simple marketing that actually drives business (without the overwhelm).

They unpack Sarah’s journey from the corporate world to building a business on her own terms. You’ll hear how she turned a layoff during the recession into a springboard for entrepreneurship, how she ditched the agency grind for a membership model, and why she believes less but better is the future of marketing.

This one’s packed with real strategies—like Sarah’s “biz dev blitz” to fill your pipeline fast, how to reverse-engineer your revenue goals, and why micro-yeses in your sales process can seriously boost conversions.

• Why Sarah walked away from corporate marketing (and never looked back)
  
  

• How the Tiny Marketing Club helps consultants design lifestyle-first businesses
  
  

• What a “Biz Dev Blitz” is—and how you can run one to land more clients
  
  

• The real reason most businesses struggle with offer creation
  
  

• Why sales should feel collaborative, not manipulative
  
  

• How to build trust through micro-commitments
  
  

• What Sarah means when she says your offer should be like a staircase
  
  

• The importance of simplifying your message to match how clients actually think
  
  

• Why good marketing starts with understanding real pain points—not just catchy copy
  
  

• How to test and tweak your offers without burning time or budget
  
  

• Learn more about Sarah: sarahnoelblock.com
  
  

• Join the Club: Tiny Marketing Club

About TreMonte and Traversing Entrepreneurship Podcast

Traversing Entrepreneurship is a show for and about business owners in Traverse City, Michigan and beyond. In each episode, host Derek Dall’Olmo sits down with local business owners and the professionals who serve them to talk about business building, life, money, taxes, family — and all the ups and downs that come with doing something different. Join us to hear their stories and lessons learned — and to get inspired about what might be possible in your own business.

Derek is the founder of TreMonte Financial Consultants, LLC and TreMonte TreMonte Tax Solutions, LLC (together referred to as “TreMonte”). TreMonte works with business owners and entrepreneurs to develop a proactive tax strategy that maximizes after-tax profits. It is TreMonte’s goal to bridge the gap between Financial Advisors and Accountants by serving as CFO to their clients.

This show is for informational purposes only and should not be viewed as personalized financial, investment, tax, or legal advice. You should always consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific legal or tax situation.

Please email Derek Dall’Olmo at derek@tremontefinancial.com with questions and comments or to schedule a one-on-one conversation.

TreMonte Facebook Page | Follow Derek on LinkedIn

Subscribe:

Apple Podcast | Google Podcasts | Amazon Podcasts | Stitcher | Spotify | Deezer | TuneIn

If you enjoy the show, please leave a review on iTunes to help others discover the podcast.

In this episode of the Traversing Entrepreneurship podcast, Derek Dall'Olmo interviews Corey Morris, founder of Voltage Digital Agency. They discuss Corey's journey from employee to business owner, the intricacies of digital marketing, particularly SEO, and the challenges and strategies involved in business acquisitions.

Corey shares insights on leadership, the importance of transparency in negotiations, and how he has personalized his agency's approach to better serve clients. In this conversation, Corey Morris discusses the evolution of his marketing agency, Voltage, emphasizing the importance of niching down to enhance service quality and client relationships. He shares insights on defining success, the challenges of decision-making, and the significance of recognizing when a client is not the right fit. Additionally, he introduces his book, 'The Digital Marketing Success Plan,' which outlines a structured approach to digital marketing strategy.

Key Moments:
Corey's journey into digital marketing began with a passion for SEO.
The landscape of SEO has evolved significantly over the years.
Transparency in financials is crucial when transitioning to business ownership.
Negotiation requires setting aside personal feelings for business success.
Leadership involves adapting strategies to meet client needs.
Recognizing when we are not the right fit is crucial.
Learning how to say no is one of the most important lessons.
Making decisions is key to moving forward.
The Digital Marketing Success Plan provides a structured approach to marketing.

Connect with Corey:

Email: corey@voltage.digital
Website: https://thedmsp.com

About TreMonte and Traversing Entrepreneurship Podcast

Traversing Entrepreneurship is a show for and about business owners in Traverse City, Michigan and beyond. In each episode, host Derek Dall’Olmo sits down with local business owners and the professionals who serve them to talk about business building, life, money, taxes, family — and all the ups and downs that come with doing something different. Join us to hear their stories and lessons learned — and to get inspired about what might be possible in your own business.

Derek is the founder of TreMonte Financial Consultants, LLC and TreMonte TreMonte Tax Solutions, LLC (together referred to as “TreMonte”). TreMonte works with business owners and entrepreneurs to develop a proactive tax strategy that maximizes after-tax profits. It is TreMonte’s goal to bridge the gap between Financial Advisors and Accountants by serving as CFO to their clients.

This show is for informational purposes only and should not be viewed as personalized financial, investment, tax, or legal advice. You should always consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific legal or tax situation.

Please email Derek Dall’Olmo at derek@tremontefinancial.com with questions and comments or to schedule a one-on-one conversation.

If you enjoy the show, please leave a review on iTunes to help others discover the podcast.