Beyond Fulfillment Podcast - podcast cover

Beyond Fulfillment Podcast

The Beyond Fulfillment Podcast, with Dave Gulas of EZDC 3PL, is your weekly dose of real talk with the people actually building successful businesses. We bring you unfiltered conversations with the founders, the dreamers, and the doers who are truly making things happen. We're cutting through the noise to show you what it really takes for business growth.. Think of it as a backstage pass to the entrepreneurial journey —from overcoming tough challenges to celebrating big victories, and every important lesson along the way. Why listen? Because we're exploring various industries, pulling back the curtain on how entrepreneurs like David Meltzer, Brian Esposito, Susan Sly, Darren Jacklin, and Susan Bratton have powered through obstacles, grabbed opportunities, and truly scaled their visions. You'll hear authentic stories that resonate, gain practical advice you can put into action today, and find the motivation to fuel your own growth.
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Episodes

Mastering the Pivot: Richard Blank’s Path to Building a Call-Center Empire

In this episode, we dive deep into the entrepreneurial journey of Richard Blank, CEO of Costa Rica’s Call Center. Richard reveals how he went from a Spanish major in Philadelphia to building a thriving business in Central America’s vibrant BPO industry. Richard shares honest insights on overcoming early career uncertainty, breaking free from societal expectations, and capitalizing on his passion for language and culture. Listen as he discusses practical strategies for scaling a business sustaina...

Jul 22, 202530 minEp. 172

Strategizing for Uncertainty: How Trump’s Tariff Volatility is Reshaping Global Trade

In this episode, Dave Gulas sits down with Jim Tompkins to break down the latest developments in global tariffs and what they mean for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and founders navigating today’s unpredictable landscape. Get insight on President Trump’s negotiation style, the impact of new reciprocal tariffs set for August 1st, and how economic shifts are directly affecting the supply chain and manufacturing decisions for U.S. businesses. Dave and Jim discuss real-world examples of adap...

Jul 21, 202539 minEp. 171

Creating Problems for Growth. The Power of Disruption with Ted Santos

In this episode, Dave Gulas sits down with Ted Santos, the seasoned founder of Turnaround Investment Partners, to explore fresh approaches to growth, innovation, and company culture that matter to every entrepreneur, small business owner, or founder. Ted shares candid stories from his 20+ years guiding leaders, including how a lesson from American Express’s radical reinvention sparked his own commitment to innovation and how disruption can actually be a powerful tool for business growth. Ted off...

Jul 17, 202536 minEp. 170

From Cold Calls to Capital Gains: Persisting through adversity with Brett Swarts

In this episode of Beyond Fulfillment, host Dave Gulas sits down with Brett Swarts, founder of Capital Gains Tax Solutions, to dive deep into the entrepreneurial grind and real strategies for thriving through tough times. Brett shares his personal story, from weathering the financial storm of 2008 to building a unique firm that helps entrepreneurs, real estate investors, and business owners defer capital gains taxes on major exits. Listen in for honest insights on hard work, resilience, and less...

Jul 15, 202526 minEp. 169

Redefining Access to News: How Entrepreneur Adam Koehler is Disrupting the Publishing Industry

In this episode of the Beyond Fulfillment Podcast, Adam Koehler shares his journey from co-founding DotLoop, sold to Zillow for a nine-figure sum, to launching Content Credits, an innovative solution to the publishing industry’s struggles. Host Dave Gulas dives deep with Adam into the realities of startup life, why launching DotLoop during the 2008 housing crisis was a strategic move, and what led major investors to look at Cincinnati as a serious startup hub. Adam discusses why downturns can ac...

Jul 10, 202521 minEp. 168

Tariff Twists and Global Trade: Jim Tompkins on Trump’s Trade Pause and What Comes Next

In this episode, industry veteran Jim Tompkins dives into timely strategies for navigating tariffs, international trade, and the fast-changing global supply chain. Jim shares his predictions on U.S. trade policies, breaks down the real impact of tariffs on manufacturers and importers, and explains why political and economic factors are shaping today’s trade deals. This discussion goes deep on risk reduction, the importance of diversifying suppliers beyond China, and the practical steps businesse...

Jul 09, 202533 minEp. 167

From Spare Bedroom to Eight Figures: Lessons in Grit and Growth with Justin Snyder

In this episode, Dave sits down with Justin Snyder, founder of Forest Superfoods, to explore Justin’s remarkable journey from packing orders in his spare bedroom to building an 8-figure superfoods brand in Australia. Justin shares how a fascination with health foods, cultivated during travels in India, led him to launch Forest Superfoods, despite limited resources and zero experience in the supplement industry. He details the importance of consistent daily improvement, why he believes sales driv...

Jul 08, 202528 minEp. 166

Disrupting 3PL Matchmaking: Inside Racklify’s Startup Success With Bill Carlin

In this episode, host Dave Gulas sits down with Bill Carlin, co-founder and CMO of Racklify, to dig into the behind-the-scenes story of building a digital marketplace in the 3PL (third-party logistics) industry. Bill shares how his journey started as an e-commerce seller, evolved into running a fulfillment warehouse, and led him to create Racklify—a free, ad-supported platform connecting merchants with vetted 3PL providers around the world. Discover how Bill and his team identified a gap in the ...

Jul 03, 202525 minEp. 165

AI, M&A, and the Next Wave in Logistics; Expert Insights from Ben Gordon

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of supply chain M&A, entrepreneurship, and business growth with Ben Gordon, founder of Cambridge Capital and BGSA. Ben shares the inside story behind the $160 million Green Screens AI exit, detailing how predictive pricing and AI-powered analytics are reshaping the logistics industry. He reveals how the strongest companies are “bought, not sold” and provides practical advice for business owners preparing for acquisition, from setting expectations ...

Jul 01, 202528 minEp. 164

Beyond The Hype: The Realities of Building Wealth Through Real Estate with Spencer Hilligoss

In this episode, Dave interviews Spencer Hilligoss, co-founder of Madison Investing, who shares his honest journey from a demanding 13-year tech career in Silicon Valley to building a thriving real estate investing business with his wife. Spencer talks about navigating the reality behind the romanticized vision of real estate investing, overcoming the unexpected challenges of scaling Madison Investing, and the unique advantages (and trials) of running a family business. Hear his candid take on l...

Jun 26, 202532 minEp. 163

From Severe Dyslexia to Successful Entrepreneur: Beating the Odds with Benjamin Shrader

In this episode of the Beyond Fulfillment Podcast, host Dave Gulas sits down with Benjamin Schrader, visionary entrepreneur and founder of Schrader Promotions. Benjamin shares his personal journey overcoming severe dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia—a trifecta of learning challenges—while navigating the world of business as an underdog. Listeners will discover how Benjamin transformed adversity into fuel for success, detailing his early days being homeschooled, the pivotal lessons from his su...

Jun 24, 202536 minEp. 162

Turning Crisis Into Opportunity: Small Businesses Strategies During Uncertainty with Sri Kaza

In this episode of the Beyond Fulfillment Podcast, host Dave Gulas interviews Sri Kaza, former McKinsey partner and accomplished entrepreneur, as he dives deep into surviving business downturns, scaling up after setbacks, and building resilient companies that customers love. In this value-packed interview, Sri shares: How his experience at McKinsey shaped his entrepreneurial mindset The real reason most start-ups struggle with customer acquisition costs Strategies that helped him turn around, gr...

Jun 19, 202526 minEp. 161

Outgrowing Yourself: The 3 Cs to Scale Fast with Pat Alacqua

In this episode, host Dave Gulas dives deep with Pat Alacqua, a seasoned entrepreneur known for guiding businesses through every stage of growth. Pat shares how his early years working in his grandfather’s grocery store shaped his approach to business, and why being impatient can actually help, and sometimes hurt, entrepreneurial progress. Pat breaks down his “three Cs” approach: Clarify, Chart, and Co-Align, offering hands-on techniques for managing rapid growth, overcoming analysis paralysis, ...

Jun 17, 202528 minEp. 160

Rare Earths, Trade Policies, and Inflation: The Real Impact of Trump’s Tariff Strategy

In this episode of the Beyond Fulfillment Podcast, host Dave Gulas sits down with supply chain expert Jim Tompkins for an in-depth discussion on how recent tariff shifts, especially those influenced by Trump’s trade strategies with China, are reshaping global supply chains, warehouse locations, and business decisions for entrepreneurs. Get practical insights on what tariff changes really mean for small business owners, founders, and anyone managing an early-stage company. Jim breaks down the rea...

Jun 16, 202537 minEp. 159

From Competitive Runner to Science Journalist – Turning Passion Into Profession with Alex Hutchinson

In this episode, we sit down with renowned science journalist and former elite runner Alex Hutchinson to explore the real mindset and habits driving peak performance, perseverance, and innovation in today’s entrepreneurial world. If you’re an entrepreneur, small business owner, or startup founder looking for inspiring stories and proven tactics to apply in YOUR business, this episode is just for you. Discover how to set goals that actually move the needle, balance exploration with execution, har...

Jun 12, 202530 minEp. 158

From Crowdfunding to Cutting Edge Tech: The Marathon of Startup Life with Alon Partuk of Octup

In this episode, Dave Gulas talks with entrepreneur and tech founder Alon Partuk about the real challenges behind building and scaling in the world of e-commerce logistics. Alon shares how frustration with traditional 3PLs led him to launch Octop—a platform that’s reshaping how brands manage fulfillment, last-mile delivery, and operations. From crowdfunding campaigns to building scalable logistics tech, Alon walks through the wins, the mess-ups, and what actually works when your business is grow...

Jun 10, 202528 minEp. 157

From CEO to Empowering Working Moms: The Road to Self-Discovery with Kim Rogne

Welcome to the Beyond Fulfillment Podcast! In this episode, "From CEO to Empowering Working Moms: The Road to Self-Discovery with Kim Rogne," host Dave Gulas sits down with Kim Rogne, a trailblazer in real estate and a champion for working moms! Kim shares her 25-year journey from real estate sales and brokerage management to thriving entrepreneurship, revealing actionable strategies for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and start-up founders seeking fulfillment and success. Learn how Kim ov...

Jun 05, 202532 minEp. 156

The Tariff Tangle: Trump, the Courts, and What’s Next for US Supply Chains

Discover critical insights into the ever-evolving world of international trade, tariffs, and supply chain strategy in our special episode: The Tariff Tangle: Trump, the Courts, and What’s Next for US Supply Chains. Join host Dave Gulas and supply chain expert Jim Tompkins as they break down the recent U.S. Court of International Trade ruling on Trump’s tariffs, its impact on entrepreneurship, and actionable strategies for small business owners and start-up founders. In this episode, you’ll learn...

Jun 04, 202534 minEp. 155

Breaking the Success Trap: The Hidden Barriers to Entrepreneurial Growth with Dr. Ravi Iyer

Entrepreneurial growth is waiting for you in this power-packed episode of Beyond Fulfillment Podcast. Host David Gulas sits down with renowned coach and entrepreneur Dr. Ravi Iyer to reveal the unseen obstacles that keep high-achievers from scaling to their NEXT LEVEL. Are you a driven entrepreneur, small business owner, or start-up founder seeking game-changing business strategies? Discover why your past achievements and proven systems might actually be holding you back—and how to break FREE fr...

Jun 03, 202529 minEp. 154

Human-Centered AI: Keeping People First in a Tech-Driven World with Ben Johnson

The secrets to entrepreneurial innovation and business growth are in this episode of the Beyond Fulfillment Podcast! Host Dave Gulas sits down with Ben Johnson, founder of Particle 41, to discuss actionable strategies for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and startup founders looking to take their business to the next level. In this deep-dive conversation, Ben shares his journey from paper routes and Commodore 64s to leading cutting-edge AI solutions, emphasizing the importance of mission-dr...

May 29, 202528 minEp. 153

Surviving the Startup Rollercoaster: Purpose, Timing, and Mental Health with Ashwin Gulati

Unlock the hidden truths of the startup journey with Ashwin Gulati, author of "Soul Venture: A True Life and Death Journey into the Startup Culture," in this eye-opening episode of the Beyond Fulfillment Podcast! Whether you're an entrepreneur, small business owner, or startup founder searching for REAL strategies to elevate your business, this conversation is packed with game-changing insights you won’t want to miss. Ashwin dives deep into the internal struggles founders face, including the men...

May 27, 202535 minEp. 152

From TikTok viral to Shark Tank: Justin Baer’s Entrepreneurial Leap with Collars and Co

Unlock Entrepreneurial Growth! In this episode of the Beyond Fulfillment Podcast, host David sits down with Justin Baer, founder of Collars & Co. and Shark Tank deal-maker, to dive deep into actionable entrepreneurial strategies, startup challenges, and creative business growth. If you're an entrepreneur, small business owner, or startup founder looking for real-world insights on launching, scaling, and sustaining a successful business, this video is packed with proven tactics and inspiring ...

May 22, 202527 minEp. 151

Consistently Great: The Passion and Purpose Driving Uncle Matt’s Organic Juice with Matt McLean

Unlock proven entrepreneurship strategies in this episode of the Beyond Fulfillment Podcast, featuring Matt McLean, founder of Uncle Matt’s Organic, the #1 organic orange juice brand in the U.S.! We dive deep into Matt’s journey, sharing essential business growth lessons for small business owners, start-up founders, and entrepreneurial dreamers aiming to scale with purpose. Discover how Matt transitioned from fourth-generation Florida citrus farming to breaking ground in the competitive organic ...

May 20, 202528 minEp. 150

Global Trade Shakeup: Trump’s Tactics, Major Deals, and Supply Chain Response

Welcome to the Beyond Fulfillment Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with supply chain legend Jim Tompkins to discuss "Trump's Impact on Supply Chain," focusing on actionable business strategies. If you’re looking for expert insights on how global trade policy, tariffs, and international negotiations affect your business and want to optimize your supply chain for today’s unpredictable market, this episode is packed with value! Topics Covered: → The real story behind U.S. trade negotiations an...

May 19, 202532 minEp. 149

Gamifying Growth: Overcoming Fear Through Action with Jesse Kay

Welcome to the Beyond Fulfillment Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Jesse Kay, entrepreneur, podcast host, and founder of Vyber Media, to uncover top strategies for startup success, audience engagement, and building a thriving business from the ground up. Jesse shares how launching his podcast at 16 kickstarted his journey in performance marketing, his secrets to landing high-profile interviews (like Mark Cuban and Jack Dorsey), and how he bootstrapped his agency, Vyber Media, while bal...

May 15, 202522 minEp. 148

Lard Works in Mysterious Ways: Charles Mayfield’s Unconventional Skincare Success Story

Welcome to the Beyond Fulfillment Podcast! In this episode, we dive deep with Charles Mayfield, entrepreneur, bestselling cookbook author, regenerative farmer, and founder of the innovative lard-based skincare brand, Farrow. Packed with key entrepreneurial lessons, Charles shares how his journey from co-authoring Paleo Comfort Foods cookbooks led him to pioneer a sustainable skincare line rooted in regenerative farming. Discover the unique path of launching a product in a "saturated" skincare ma...

May 13, 202527 minEp. 147

Entrepreneurship on Your Own Terms: Building a Legacy in Logistics with Tristan Bordallo

Welcome to the Beyond Fulfillment Podcast! In this episode we sit down with Tristan Bordallo, a 21-year entrepreneur, asset-based trucking company founder, and former competitive cyclist. Tristan shares how his background in competitive cycling shaped his mental toughness and resilience in the world of business. He dives deep into the realities of building a business from scratch, including how he transitioned from agency owner to launching his own trucking and brokerage companies , the challeng...

May 09, 202533 minEp. 146

The Truth Behind Tariffs: Myths, Realities, and Opportunities with Jim Tompkins

Welcome to the Beyond Fulfillment Podcast! In this episode, we have special guest Jim Tompkins cut through the noise to explore the impact of the trade war, Trump's presidency, and global supply chain disruptions, offering actionable advice for today’s business leaders. Learn how to leverage cost reduction, optionality, and supply chain resilience to future-proof your business. Jim Tompkins delivers powerful knowledge on tariffs, trade negotiations, and navigating unreliable data from internatio...

May 08, 202535 minEp. 145

The Power of Relationships: Talento’s Transition Story with Mia Mazal

Ready to transform your entrepreneurial journey? In this episode of the Beyond Fulfillment Podcast, we welcome back Mia Mazal, now co-founder of Talento, who shares powerful, real-world lessons for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and startup founders. Discover how Mia led the evolution from SWorks to Talento, integrating business intelligence and AI into logistics and supply chain solutions for rapid growth and operational excellence. Get tips on leveraging automation, scaling a company in...

May 06, 202524 minEp. 144

Rethinking Reviews: How Sircles Is Redefining Trust and Recommendations with John Worthington

Unlock the secrets of entrepreneurial success with this inspiring episode of the Beyond Fulfillment Podcast featuring John Worthington, founder of Tech2U and Sircles! If you’re an entrepreneur, small business owner, or startup founder searching for actionable strategies, innovative funding ideas, and real-world advice from thriving business leaders, this episode is packed with value. In this episode, you’ll discover: Why John left review platforms like Yelp behind to build a community-driven rec...

May 01, 202521 minEp. 143
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