Americanooooooo Podcast with Eric Vonheim

Discover the journey of beauty industry pioneer Vonda Simon in this inspiring podcast! From top sales rep to founder of Seacliff Beauty, Vonda shares her secrets to building a successful business with passion and integrity. Learn about the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of perseverance, and insider insights into the cosmetics world. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or beauty enthusiast, Vonda's wisdom on balancing family, innovation, and success is a must-listen. Tune in for a candid conversation about turning dreams into reality in the competitive beauty industry!

Anders Lasater (CEO, Principal Architect, Anders Lasater Architects) discusses his career and experiences in the field of architecture. He shares his passion for creating and changing the environment around him, starting from a young age when he would tinker and create things in his backyard. Lasater emphasizes the importance of serving clients and creating meaningful spaces that go beyond what meets the eye. He also discusses the challenges and rewards of being an architect, including the need to navigate constraints and limitations in order to foster creativity. Lasater shares anecdotes about his experiences with clients and the impact of his designs on their lives. He concludes by reflecting on the decision to start his own firm and the ongoing challenges and responsibilities of running a practice.

Elyas Balta (CEO of Euroline Steel Windows & Doors) shares his journey from growing up in war-torn Lebanon to immigrating to the United States and starting his own business. Elyas discusses his passion for learning and exploration, which he sees as interconnected with travel. He also talks about his upbringing and the challenges he faced during the war, as well as his early interest in art and engineering. After working in the tech industry during the dot-com boom, Elyas decided to start his own business installing cameras in businesses. However, he found it difficult to sell and shifted his focus to buying a blacksmith shop that produced ornamental iron. He learned to overcome his fear of sales by teaching and educating clients about his products. Elyas emphasizes the importance of building relationships and finding gratitude in every moment. He also reflects on the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship and the need to define success on one's own terms. Elyas encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to not let fear hold them back and to embrace learning and perseverance. He also advises them to not be afraid of failure, but rather see it as an opportunity to learn and grow.

Mark Savage, a filmmaker and writer, shares his journey in the film industry. Mark emphasizes the importance of understanding the business side of filmmaking and building relationships with investors and industry professionals. He believes that the key to success is not only being a creative person but also being able to speak the language of business and present a compelling case to potential investors. Mark also highlights the significance of empathy and understanding different cultures through literature and film. He shares his experiences working in film distribution and programming, as well as his own journey in making low-budget movies. Mark's approach to filmmaking is focused on creating films that are both artistically fulfilling and profitable for investors. He believes in the power of relationships and building trust with others in the industry. Mark's passion for storytelling and his dedication to both the creative and business aspects of filmmaking have shaped his career and allowed him to pursue his dreams in the industry.

Eric Vonheim speaks with Josiah Lilly (Founder & CEO of EPIC Ceramic + Stone) about business and personal growth. Josiah shares his routine for grounding and energizing himself, including meditation, exercise, and cold plunges. They explore Josiah's journey from Tennessee to California, his family background, and how his entrepreneurial spirit and work ethic developed from a young age. Josiah also talks about his experiences and growth in the tile and stone business, emphasizing the value of passion, excellence, and treating employees and materials with respect.