CEO To Rainmaker

Ready to shepherd your entrepreneurial venture to the land of plenty? This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom, distilled from over a thousand mentorship sessions with budding business leaders. Grab your notepad as I impart the top 10 commandments for entrepreneurial success, starting with the heavenly guidance of robust accounting systems, akin to the GPS for your business journey. Prepare for a masterclass in KPIs that will keep your finger on the pulse of your company's health and ambitions, and discover why adapting to change isn't just smart—it's essential. Plus, we dive into the divine rule of attracting and retaining the celestial best staff with competitive pay and incentives.Now, let's talk about you, the visionary at the helm. This conversation is your portal to the self-improvement galaxy, where refining leadership skills and motivating your team is the name of the game. I'll reveal how allocating a sacred 15% of your work time to dream up your company's future can lead to profound growth. And hear why managing your cash flow with a 90-day budget is not just smart, but a commandment for maintaining financial grace. These insights are your commandments for not just running a business, but leading one to a promised land of success and sustainability. Join me, and let's chart your course to entrepreneurial enlightenment.CEO2Rainmkr.comEvaldez@theloandoctor.loans Support the show

5/10/24 • 27:44

Embark on an inspiring journey with Ivo Tjan, the visionary CEO behind Commerce West Bank, as he recounts his ascent from an eager 18-year-old with banking dreams to founding his very own financial institution before his 28th birthday. Ivo's remarkable tale is a beacon for the entrepreneurial flame, illuminating how regional banks like his are crucial in offering bespoke banking services and personal attention to the backbone of America's economy—small and mid-sized businesses. In a marketplace where larger banks may fall short, Evo and I dissect how these smaller, agile players are not just competing, but thriving by fostering deep-rooted relationships and crafting financial solutions that resonate with the unique needs of each enterprise.Navigating the convoluted waters of interest rates and political tides, our conversation takes a deeper look at the strategies that fortify banks with solid financial underpinnings in times of economic unpredictability. We contemplate the influence a presidential election could wield on the regulatory landscape and the subsequent ripple effects on the banking sector. Additionally, we delve into the compelling blend of art and science in financial assessments, particularly where artificial intelligence intersects with business banking. This episode is an ode to the symbiotic nature of banking and business relationships, showcasing the irreplaceable value of a profound understanding between a bank and its business clients, much like the alliance Commerce West Bank champions for growth and success.ITjan@cwbk.comCEO2rainmkr.comSupport the show

4/12/24 • 30:57

When life gave the Jimenez Family a surplus of goat milk, they didn't just make cheese—they crafted an ingenious business model that's as nourishing for the skin as it is for the soul. Tune in to hear CEO Michelle Jimenez and her daughters, Maddie and Abby, recount the transformation of their family ranch into a beacon of entrepreneurial spirit. Their journey is peppered with insights on innovation, the crafting of a goat milk-based skincare line that's capturing hearts (and complexions) across the nation, and the importance of staying true to natural, transparent values. Join us to learn how these enterprising women educate consumers on the benefits of their wholesome products while navigating the world of business with grace and determination.Prepare to be inspired by the strategies and personal growth of young entrepreneurs Maddie and Abby, as they share the role of customer feedback in fine-tuning their product range and the impact of a well-timed branding refresh. With over 70 retail outlets singing the praises of their goat milk magic, the Jimenez sisters reveal the operational shifts that have made their business not just profitable but also eco-conscious. From the art of social media influence to mastering the financial tightrope of expansion, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge for anyone keen on turning passion into a flourishing enterprise. Embrace the empowerment that comes with learning the ropes of entrepreneurship alongside the Jimenez family, and maybe even discover your own path to business success.contact: michele@jimenezsistersranch.com1951-429-4522www.jimenezsistersranch.comCeo2rainmkr.comSupport the show

3/27/24 • 29:40

Unlock the secrets to navigating the complexities of family-owned businesses and discover how to craft a successful exit strategy with the wisdom of Marty Kaufman, founder of Accent Computer Solutions. Marty's entrepreneurial spark ignited a legacy, transitioning from the constraints of General Dynamics to cultivating a thriving business intertwined with family. Brace yourself for a journey through the trials and triumphs of integrating loved ones into the corporate world and the artful considerations involved in passing the torch.Ever wondered how departmental ownership can revolutionize the efficiency of technical tools, or what role specialized consultants play in maintaining a well-oiled business machine? We've got you covered. Marty shares is experience in selling  his  business and the weight of such a decisions on family and legacy. From the nuances of estate planning to the strategic dance with stock options, he dissects the fine details that could alter the course of a family enterprise.As we wrap up, witness the transformational power of faith and perseverance in the world of entrepreneurship. Marty's testament to the guiding hand of a higher power over three and a half decades in business is not only inspiring but a beacon for those navigating their own corporate journeys. His insights offer a roadmap to a rewarding life, filled with the pursuits of passion beyond the boardroom. Don't miss this episode filled with heartfelt advice, strategic guidance, and the promise of a fulfilling future post-business success.Support the show

3/13/24 • 36:43

When Gina Oliver and Richard Hutchinson decided to blend ancestral wisdom with modern technology, they conjured more than just crops—they sowed the seeds of change. In our heartwarming conversation, these pioneers share the story of 'From the Land,' a venture transforming the face of sustainable indoor farming with the heartbeat of community at its core. We delve into their fascinating integration of adobe building techniques with cutting-edge farm automation, a fusion that earned them a patent-pending status and a USDA grant. Their tale is one of resilience, a tribute to Gina's rich family legacy, and a testament to their unwavering commitment to making nutritious food accessible to all.The episode isn't just a science class on advanced agriculture; it's a lens into the world of food deserts like San Bernardino and how innovative solutions like 'From the Land' can revolutionize food security. Listen as Gina and Richard reflect on the journey from academia to entrepreneurship, where perseverance is served alongside pesticide-free produce. They emphasize the art of learning new skills and adapting to challenges, all while nurturing a business that isn’t just about profit but about feeding the soul of a community. Join us for a narrative that's ripe with hope, brimming with innovation, and rich with the spirit of two entrepreneurs determined to harvest a healthier tomorrow.Dr. Gina Oliver- 1909-583-4389fromtheland.us CEO2rainmkr.com909-2300024Support the show

2/21/24 • 35:01

Embarking on a transformative journey with Dr. Guadalupe Buitron, we unravel the threads of social justice and business acumen that weave together the tapestry of Financially Capable LLC. As the progeny of Mexican immigrants, Lupe's narrative is one of tenacity and cultural pride, guiding her path from a bilingual mental therapist to a beacon of financial wisdom for communities often left in the shadows. Her entrepreneurial spirit is a lighthouse for first-generation individuals and communities of color, illuminating the steps toward financial wellness and social mobility. Amidst the confluence of academic rigor and entrepreneurial zest, Lupe stands as a bastion of innovation. Bridging her expertise as a Business professor with the realities of entrepreneurship, she imparts a wealth of knowledge on the psychological facets of financial literacy. Her approach cuts to the core of the mental blockades that thwart many from achieving economic prosperity. We navigate the nuances of financial therapy, and shine a spotlight on the burgeoning market of Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs in Southern California, underscoring the power of self-awareness in leadership—especially for those trailblazing first-generation college graduates forging their fiscal paths.Confronting the daunting barriers of financial mindsets, we traverse the landscape of entrepreneurial evolution, where mindset shifts from scarcity to abundance can alter the course of one’s business voyage. Through Lupe's recounting of triumphs over financial literacy deficits, she emerges not just as an advocate but as a symbol of hope for young Hispanic women and all who dare to tackle their financial fears. Join us as we celebrate these victories and acknowledge the journey ahead, fortified with the insights and inspiration that Lupe imparts on our bi-monthly expedition toward financial empowerment.thefinanciallycapable@gmail.comLupe Buitron: 1951-425-4021www.ceo2rainmkr.comYou Tube- Ceo To Rainmaker - Gene ValdezSupport the show

2/7/24 • 28:25

On this segment of "News Views & Clues ", Gene offers his opinions on the minimum wage  hike for medical workers and the best companies in the Inland Empire  as desiginated by the LA Times. Check it  out .show Link; https;bit.ly/46ezOqbSupport the show

1/31/24 • 06:30

Unlock the full potential of your business's real estate strategy with insight from Jeff Sceranka CEO of Enterprise Funding. He's the guide you need through the maze of the SBA 504 loan program, revealing how a modest 10% down payment and an appealing fixed interest rate can be part of your next commercial property venture. Jeff contrasts the SBA 504 with other loans, such as the SBA 7A and conventional commercial mortgages, highlighting the unique benefits that could mean a world of difference for your bottom line. We tackle everything from the owner occupancy requirement to the ins and outs of loan fees, ensuring that you're equipped with the knowledge to make a smart, strategic investment.This episode isn't just about the numbers; it's about the stories behind them. From a motel's metamorphosis into a high-end spa resort to the intricacies of joint venture deals, we cover real-world examples of the SBA 504 loan's impact. We navigate the eligibility landscape, discuss the vital role of Certified Development Companies, and shed light on the collaboration between banks and the SBA to streamline your approval process. While touching on the critical financial documents necessary for your application, we also forecast interest rates and offer advice for CEOs navigating the world of commercial real estate. Join us for a masterclass in leveraging the SBA 504 loan program to your advantage.Jeff Sceranka contact:Jeff@efc504.com909-7923803show link:https://bit.ly/46ezOqbSupport the show

1/24/24 • 34:23

How often do we examine the role of mental health in our professional success? Join us for a riveting discourse featuring our guest, CPA, Steve Williams, as we shed light on this less-explored avenue. With insights from a Buddhist monk in Sri Lanka, we delve into embracing realistic expectations without accepting mediocrity, and cultivating a sharper, more productive mindset for business. Transitioning to the subject of life purpose, we discuss the impact of releasing attachments, aided by the fascinating conversation with the monk and Steve as a religious person. Hear about  his personal journey towards achieving a happier, effective life through this transformative mindset. In the final segment, we underscore the essence of fostering a positive work culture and the influence of emotional intelligence in your staff. Our key takeaway? Focus on lowering  expectations and celebrate the victories that exceed them, for a healthier mindset and a thriving business. So, plug in your headphones and prepare for a deep dive into the intriguing connection between mental health and business success.Link to Show : https://ceotorainmaker.buzzsprout.comsteves contact info:1714-2713083steve@gyldecauwerllp.comSupport the show

1/10/24 • 36:46

For episode 2, Gene's shares his  views on current medical debt and  credit  reporting agencies and the disconnect on how the current state of economy from an  economist's perspective is  different from the average US adult .evaldez@theloandoctor.loans 909-2300024access all shows:www.ceo2rainmkr.comhttps://ceotorainmaker.buzzsprout.comapple podcasts: Ceo To  Rainmaker- Gene ValdezSupport the show

12/27/23 • 04:46

Ever thought about implementing AI into your business and felt overwhelmed by the complexity of it all? Fret not, as our distinguished guest, tech expert Brian Kennedy, dispels the mystery surrounding AI and introduces us to the exciting potential of chat GPT. As the director of the entrepreneur ecosystem at Ampac Business Capital, Brian's insights are valuable for anyone eager to leverage AI in their operations.Our intriguing conversation steers you through the recent upheavals at Open AI, the significance of President Biden's executive order on AI, and how chat GPT, an AI tool, can revolutionize your business. Be it simplifying tasks such as shortening links, studying competition, or social media marketing, AI can be your trusted assistant. We further delve into the ethical considerations of employing AI and stress the importance of using this tool responsibly for the benefit of your business and its employees.Finally, our discussion evolves to the concept of 'blue oceans'—unchartered business territories ripe for innovation. Brian shares his personal experiences and success stories of companies like Uber and Lyft, which have harnessed technology to carve out their own markets. Get ready to learn about the power of AI and how it can reshape your business landscape. This episode is mandatory listening for anyone keen to explore AI and its transformative potential. So, tune in and let us guide you into the fascinating world of AI in business. Link to show - https://ceotorainmaker. buzzsprout.comBrian contact info:909-8166847bkennedyjr@ampac.comSupport the show

12/20/23 • 39:11

Gene candidly  reveals some  items he believes small business owners should know  about to develop a mutually  beneficial commercial banking relationship.Most of items are not always discussed  in detail by bankers  and most business owners don't know what they mean.This   include -Business checking accounts, earnings credit rates and account analysis..Kinds & Costs of Financial reportingWhat Are Financial  covenants ?How to negotiate personal guarantees.Why you should refer your banker to  business owner friends.This is a must see or listen to show!!available on all podcast directories and You Tube Channel ceo2rainmkr.comevaldez@theloandoctor.loans909-2300024Link: https://bit.ly/46ezOqBSupport the show

12/6/23 • 26:57

Gene introduces a new segment of his Podcast Show, called, "News, Views & Clues".These new segments will be funny, educational  and relevant and will air once a month.This first episode centers on Gene's views toward Hollywood Celebrities and their desire to manage or create their own brands.Gene cites general business strategies that Celebrities are employing whether they realize or not. Don't miss this show !! It is short but has many gold nuggets!To contact Gene:evaldez@theloandoctor.loans909-2300024To Listen to show :www.ceo2rainmkr.comhttps://ceotorainmaker. buzzsprout.comapple podcasts-  Search for Ceo to Rainmaker- Gene ValdezSupport the show

11/29/23 • 05:55

Gene sits down with Karla Gonzalez, a government contracting  expert  and Assistant Director with the Small Business Development Center " ( SBDC").  The SBDC is a national program which is funded by various institutions, including  the SBA. The SBDC provides a full spectrum of consulting services at no charge to its small business owner clients.  The SBDC can advise business owners on how to obtain their share of the contracting pie.  Karla indicated that contracting opportunities could be at the federal, state or city level and three hot industries are janitorial, professional services and construction. To be awarded a contract her  three key points  were:1.Understand your product/service  and see if it lends itself  to contracting2. Make sure you have enough financing/capital avialable3. Be persistence and network.karla.gonzalez@ociesbdc.org800- 616-7232ociesmallbusiness.org To connect with Karla Gonzalezhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/karla-v-gonzalez-mba-48400534/To visit the Small Business Development Centerhttps://www.californiasbdc.orgTo connect with the Small Business Administration:https://www.sba.govFollow us on our other platforms for more content!Subscribe to get the latest CEO To Rainmaker Content:https://www.youtube.com/@CEOToRainmaker Listen to CEO To Rainmaker on Apple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ceo-to-rainmaker/id1596507415Visit CEO to Rainmaker on my Website:https://ceo2rainmkr.comConnect with CEO to Rainmaker on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/ceo-to-rainmaker/Like CEO To Rainmaker on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Ceo2rainmakerFollow CEO To Rainmaker on Twitter/X:https://twitter.com/ceo2rainmakerFollow CEO to Rainmaker on TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@ceo2rainmakerSupport the show

11/15/23 • 24:36

Gene sits down with Ryan Miller a  public speaker, business performance coach  and author. Ryan and his wife were survivors of the 2017  Las Vegas Mass shooting where  59 people were killed and over 500 were  injured. This event  caused him to question his views toward work  and his business performance coaching. This introspection  led to his  theory of How To Unlock The Greatness Within  You.  The Key  principle is that we  were all created by God for a  specific plan.   must know who you are. To unearth that plan  you must have a purpose that excites  and creates passion within you and you must  also  possess the  principle of "What Do I Stand For "  from an ethical standpoint. Ryan recently released a book called  "Wounds"  where he writes in greater detail how hurt, heartache and tragedy  can actually help a CEO  to greatness.  Dont miss this show!Ryan Millerryanjamesmiller.com1-714 240-5675--Follow us on our other platforms for more content!Subscribe to get the latest CEO To Rainmaker Content:https://www.youtube.com/@CEOToRainmaker Listen to CEO To Rainmaker on Apple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ceo-to-rainmaker/id1596507415Visit CEO to Rainmaker on my Website:https://ceo2rainmkr.comConnect with CEO to Rainmaker on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/ceo-to-rainmaker/Like CEO To Rainmaker on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Ceo2rainmakerFollow CEO To Rainmaker on Twitter/X:https://twitter.com/ceo2rainmakerFollow CEO to Rainmaker on TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@ceo2rainmakerSupport the show

11/8/23 • 25:28

For many owners, established or startup,  their businesses are not doing as well as they like.Gene sat down with Mihai Patru to discuss tools and services that are available in California to help businesses get on the right track, stay on the right track and how to grow and expand their businesses effectively.Mihai is the Executive Director of Caravanserai Project and has worked in the California Governor's office as part of the Entrepreneurship & Economic Mobility Task Force.Caravanserai Project is a nonpartisan, non-profit initiative managed and operated by a group of experienced professionals.  The project works with for profit and non-profit companies. Its main goal is to promote social and economic global progress by connecting relevant constituencies, and bridging gaps between different cultures and environments through the development of unique, down-to-earth and fully accountable business improvement  programs. Follow Mihai Patru:Connect with Mihai on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mihai-patru/mihai@caravanseraiproject.org1240-838-6570--Follow us on our other platforms for more content!Subscribe to get the latest CEO To Rainmaker Content:https://www.youtube.com/@CEOToRainmaker Listen to CEO To Rainmaker on Apple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ceo-to-rainmaker/id1596507415Visit CEO to Rainmaker on my Website:https://ceo2rainmkr.comConnect with CEO to Rainmaker on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/ceo-to-rainmaker/Like CEO To Rainmaker on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Ceo2rainmakerFollow CEO To Rainmaker on Twitter/X:https://twitter.com/ceo2rainmakerFollow CEO to Rainmaker on TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@ceo2rainmakerSupport the show

10/25/23 • 30:06

Gene sits down with Professor Manfred Keil,  who teaches economics at Claremont Mckenna College, Claremont , California.  Dr. Keil's specialty  is economic forecasting for  the US, Southern California and the Inland Empire . During the show Dr. Keil covers a variety  of topics including  but not limited to  the price of gasoline, the 2024 presidential race,  individual commute patterns , the difference between a monetarist & keynesian  economists and the  composition of the IE's labor force. The three  measures of the economy are also discussed which includes, inflation, the unemployment rate  and GDP.  Don't miss this episode, economics is sometimes funny! This is info all CEOs of small businesses must know !!Manfred Keilmanfred.keil@claremontmckenna.edu--Follow us on our other platforms for more content!Subscribe to get the latest CEO To Rainmaker Content:https://www.youtube.com/@CEOToRainmaker Listen to CEO To Rainmaker on Apple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ceo-to-rainmaker/id1596507415Visit CEO to Rainmaker on my Website:https://ceo2rainmkr.comConnect with CEO to Rainmaker on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/ceo-to-rainmaker/Like CEO To Rainmaker on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Ceo2rainmakerSupport the show

10/11/23 • 42:33

Gene sits down with Bill Donohoo who is currently a business professor who teaches at California State Universitys at San Bernardino & Long Beach . Before that he was the co-owner of the Gipson Group where he grew the company from scratch to $80 Million a year in sales,  Bill , who is 81 years old shares his thoughts with young entrepreneurs on how  on to grow a business and what lessons he teaches his students today.wgdonhoo@aol.comtext: 17149645319--Follow us on our other platforms for more content!Subscribe to get the latest CEO To Rainmaker Content:https://www.youtube.com/@CEOToRainmaker Listen to CEO To Rainmaker on Apple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ceo-to-rainmaker/id1596507415Visit CEO to Rainmaker on my Website:https://ceo2rainmkr.comConnect with CEO to Rainmaker on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/ceo-to-rainmaker/Like CEO To Rainmaker on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Ceo2rainmakerFollow CEO To Rainmaker on Twitter/X:https://twitter.com/ceo2rainmakerFollow CEO to Rainmaker on TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@ceo2rainmakerSupport the show

9/27/23 • 25:04

Gene  sits down with Dale Sarver, formerly the CEO of his own company and currently a business advisor of SCORE, ( Servce Corp of Retired Executives). SCORE is a program provided  by the SBA. Dale explains what SCORE can do for the current or prospective business owner. The beauty of the mentoring services is that all  services are free!Dale also reveals some real live success stories.dale.sarver@scorevolunteer.org714-376-0411To book an appointment: inlandempirescore.orgif you like the show leave a review and star rating on apple podcasts--Follow us on our other platforms for more content!Subscribe to get the latest CEO To Rainmaker Content:https://www.youtube.com/@CEOToRainmaker Listen to CEO To Rainmaker on Apple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ceo-to-rainmaker/id1596507415Visit CEO to Rainmaker on my Website:https://ceo2rainmkr.comConnect with CEO to Rainmaker on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/ceo-to-rainmaker/Like CEO To Rainmaker on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Ceo2rainmakerFollow CEO To Rainmaker on Twitter/X:https://twitter.com/ceo2rainmakerFollow CEO to Rainmaker on TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@ceo2rainmakerSupport the show

9/13/23 • 25:48

Gene sits down with Banker, Keith Cerwinski, Regional Vice President for American Business Bank , in Corona, CA. Keith offers his opinion on the difficulty of getting loans approved and  also his thoughts about the future direction of interest rates, business, the federal reserve  and the economy in general.This is a must hear episode for those interested in establishing a strong commercial banking relationship to help make their business grow and be sustainable . Don't miss this one it is of the best of the CEO To Rainmaker podcast franchise. Support the show

8/30/23 • 27:49

Gene sits down with Verious Smith  small business owner located  in Corona, CA. Verious shared his  background and his entrepreneurial journey which was very painful  but through sheer will he became a success. Verious also shares some best practices he learned along the way. He currently owns two successful businesses:Philoveracity- web design, branding, internet consulting  et. alStartempire Wire- Digital news of the Inland Empire business community  et.al.veriuos can  be reached at :www.philoveracity.comwww.startempirewire.com 1 (281) 777.5826verious .smith @philoveracity.com Support the show

8/16/23 • 27:46

Gene provides stats on his very successful first year as a podcast host  and shares his new format for 2023 starting in January909-2300024evaldez@theloandoctor.loans Support the show

12/12/22 • 10:23

Gene sits down with Abe Xiong , president of National Government Contractors Assocation Abe  explains the process of how small business owners obtain contracts  also shares his entrepreneurial journey. abe@govassociation.org404-955-8080Mixed & Edited by Next Day Podcast.Support the show

12/5/22 • 30:01

Gene sits down with Rebecca Diamond  owner of Rebecca Diamond Voice ActorRebecca has a unique  business and and a  non  traditional  business background  (theater arts)  proving that any type of background will work if you are providing a service businesses want  and will pay for.Rebecca shares what a voice actor is , what she does for clients  and also what she has learned during her entrepreneurial journey. Rebecca DiamondRDiamond86@gmail.com1970-531-9027Support the show

11/28/22 • 23:16

Gene sits down with Patti Cotton, President of the Cotton Group , a company engaged in the area of leadership and organizational development.  Patti is an expert  in these two functional areas. During the show Patti  shares her  thoughts on how small business CEOs can reach the maximum potential of their businesses.Patti has an impressive list of former clients of all sizes  consisting of but not limited to: Harvard University, Coca Cola, Amazon, Apple, Oracle,  Google, Microsoft,  Verizon and Riverside and San Bernadino CountiesIn addition to heading up her own consulting firm, Patti is a Fortune 500 public speaker and author.  Great show don't miss it !Patti@Patticotton.comwww.patticotton.comSupport the show

11/21/22 • 23:56

Gene sits down with Janet Dabek Steiner former CEO of Thoro Packaging, Inc. and currently a motivational key note speaker. Thoro  packaging was formed by her father Macy Dabek in 1968 after he moved the family away from the cold winters of New Jersey to Anaheim, Ca. Thoro  was engaged in  the short run folding carton business.  After graduating  from high school , Janet took a few accounting colleges and  began helping  her dad with  the company books.  Macy could not afford to pay his daughter as they were tight on cash in the formative years .In 1982 due to poor health Macy was forced to step down  and Janet was named as the new president &  CEO. For the next 36 years Janet  was the driving force of the company.  She scaled the business from $1  million  to  $ 40 million and then sold it  in 2018  for millions. Janet shares her entrepreneurial journey,  her best practices  and  her plan to keep the legacy of her dad & mom, Macy & Helen Dabek alive today.This episode is highly educational, motivational  and truly inspirational . Tune in and also learn what " It's Time To Make Dust" means!Janet Steiner714-7120259714-323-2315janet@makedust.com Support the show

11/14/22 • 26:25

Gene sits down with Wayne Slavitt, president of the Primemark  Group. Wayne is an expert in the area of maximizing business value and exit planning . He earned his designation as a certified Exit Planning Advisor by the exit planning institute.In addition he is an extensive public speaker and author. He recently penned a new book called "Run It Like You'll Sell it . Wayne shares expert tips on the dos and dont's of exit planning  and business valuation. Very informative show , dont miss it .Wayne Slavittw.slavitt@primemarkgroup.com1562-599-9995www.primemarkgroup.comSupport the show

11/7/22 • 19:25

In honor of National Hispanic Entrepreneur month , Gene shares his story  as to how he made his dream of becoming a successful coach/consultant a  reality . Genes parents Edward & Consuelo immigrated from Mexico  to southern california in the late 20's and 30s. Gene's family was poor. Gene attributes his success to the grace of god, having a mentor, his education and working hard with passion.  Gene also  shares  9 business  lessons he learned   during his 40 yr plus entrepreneurial  journey. During this time he started three successful businesses, The Claremont Advisory Company , The Loan Doctor &  Associates, Inc and  the Podcast CEO To Rainmaker.Its a motivational and educational episode.Gene Valdez, CEOgene@ceo2rainmkr.comevaldez@theloandoctor.loans 909-2300024Link : https://ceotorainmaker.buzzsprout.com Support the show

10/31/22 • 17:02

Gene sits down with  Angy Lopez, CEO of Angy's Angels Cleaning ServiceAngy's story is truly inspirational and motivationalAngy  was a divorced  mother  with four children who immigrated to the US in 2013 for a better life for her kids. At the time she spoke no english.  She went to a community college to learn english and worked three jobs to support her family. In 2014 she started her own company and 5 years later was honored as an  entreprenuer of the year for the Inland Empire. Today she is running a multi- million dollar business that employs 40  full time and has over 500 accounts. Her cleaning service is a mix of commercial, industrial and residential.Angy Lopez1 760-261-8200aacleaning777@gmail.comSupport the show

10/24/22 • 25:29

Gene sits down with Jonathan  Palacios-Avila, co-founder &  currently VP of Marketing  and  Research of  Stratos Fuel Inc.  Jonathan of Mexican heritage,  founded the company  8 years ago along with his father John who provided   guidance and initial capital . Jonathan was only 25 years old  at the time. He  started thinking  about his  business idea when he was only 13 years old!Stratos Fuel is a very successful company that produces hydrogen for  a variety of industries and purposes. The primary  industry is autos and the like that run  on electricity. see website for my detail. Eventually he plans to do business internationally. Jonathan's advice  to aspiring and current young entrepreneurs is to follow your  gut  and to lean on your family,  faith and friends during the tough early years of launching a business. He also recommends  hiring more executives and leaders to fill in knowledge gaps.   He has employed  this strategy at Stratos .  Great episode, check it out.Jonathan Palacios- Avila,  VP Marketing & Research Stratos Fuel1323-804-5067jpa@stratosfuel.comwww.stratosfuel.comSupport the show

10/17/22 • 25:46