[Leadership Series] Every Business Bottleneck Starts with One Avoided Conversation| Mathew Blades

[Leadership Series] Every Business Bottleneck Starts with One Avoided Conversation| Mathew Blades

How do great leaders handle the conversations everyone else avoids? After a 28-year award-winning career in radio and television, Mathew Blades interviewed presidents, celebrities, CEOs, and world-class performers. Today, he helps leaders build trust, improve communication, and navigate the difficult conversations that often determine the success or failure of a business. In this episode of Unfinished Business with Eric Mulvin, you'll learn: * Why every business bottleneck starts with an avoided conversation * The "Air Check" framework for improving every conversation you have * How to give honest feedback without creating conflict * Why listening is a leadership superpower * How curiosity can make you a better leader, entrepreneur, and communicator * Behind-the-scenes stories from interviewing Barack Obama, Jay-Z, Taylor Swift, and more Whether you're leading a company, managing a team, or simply trying to become a better communicator, this episode is packed with practical leadership lessons you can apply immediately. Episode Highlights * 00:00 Eric’s Intro Message and the mission behind Unfinished Business. * 01:40 Introducing Mathew Blades: Keynote speaker, communication expert, and former radio host. * 04:03 Moving to move up: Mathew’s journey through 28 years in broadcasting across multiple cities. * 08:16 Why the media industry consists of some of the worst communicators on earth. * 10:25 The Air Check Framework: Three simple questions to evaluate every conversation you have. * 14:34 How to give yourself grace and deliver effective feedback under intense stress. * 17:58 Moving your ego aside: Understanding that everyone experiences the same conversation differently. * 21:56 Finding the balance between artificial intelligence and human intelligence. * 29:27 Communicating when you are highly technical: Lessons from data analysts, engineers, and doctors. * 33:57 The Runway Philosophy: How to ease into difficult workplace dialogue without blowing up the room. * 40:14 Corporate Dead Air: Why months of silence kill a business faster than bad strategy. * 49:37 The Talk to Me About Anything Meeting: How giving your team a structured voice builds massive loyalty. * 52:30 Charmed Careers: Mathew’s favorite interviews from Jay-Z to Barack Obama and Taylor Swift. * 59:23 Mathew’s unfinished business: Ending ancestral dysfunction and leading the next generation forward. Connect with Mathew * Website: https://matthewblades.com [https://www.google.com/search?q=https://matthewblades.com] * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-blades-02bbbb4/ [https://www.google.com/search?q=https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-blades-02bbbb4/] * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewbladesmedia/ [https://www.google.com/search?q=https://www.instagram.com/matthewbladesmedia/] * Email: matthew@matthewblades.com [https://www.google.com/search?q=mailto%3Amatthew%40matthewblades.com] Unfinished Business with Eric Mulvin If you enjoy conversations with leaders who are building businesses, reinventing themselves, and creating impact, make sure to subscribe and turn on notifications. * Instagram: @bizwitheric [https://www.instagram.com/bizwitheric/] * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560126743830 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560126743830] * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bizwitheric [https://www.tiktok.com/@bizwitheric] * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BizWithEric [https://www.youtube.com/@BizWithEric] * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mulvin/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mulvin/] Powered by Pac Biz Outsourcing Pac Biz Outsourcing helps transportation, SaaS, software, and eCommerce companies scale customer support and back-office operations with dedicated teams in the Philippines. 🌐 Learn more: https://pac-biz.com [https://pac-biz.com]📩 Email: info@pac-biz.com 🎧 Podcast: https://pac-biz.com/podcast [https://pac-biz.com/podcast]

[Creator Series] From Broke in India to Building Multiple Million-Dollar Businesses | Ken Okazaki

What do you do when a major international crisis threatens to ruin your event, or when running three businesses at the same time starts tearing your life apart? In this episode of Unfinished Business, host Eric Mulvin sits down with serial entrepreneur Ken Okazaki, founder of 20X Agency. Ken shares his incredible journey from going broke in India with only a few dollars to his name to building and exiting multiple seven-figure businesses. Along the way, he built a guerrilla TV advertising agency in Uganda, launched sold-out seminars in Japan, navigated a business crisis that nearly led him to work with the Yakuza, and eventually made the difficult decision to sell GoBox Studio in a multi-million dollar exit. He also shares his philosophy on content marketing, AI, entrepreneurship, and why consistency beats chasing viral success. Whether you're building a business, creating content, or facing tough decisions as an entrepreneur, this episode is packed with unforgettable stories and practical lessons. Episode Highlights 00:00 Eric’s Intro Message 03:15 Why Ken calls himself a builder 05:30 Going broke in India 09:30 Moving to Uganda and meeting his wife 12:00 Building an advertising agency 17:00 Coaching entrepreneurs through content 19:00 The seminar disaster that almost ended everything 22:00 A phone call from the Yakuza 24:00 Building GoBox Studio 28:00 The multi-million dollar exit 34:00 Why content creates opportunities 39:00 Raising six children while building businesses 44:00 Business culture in Japan vs. America 49:00 AI, content creation, and the future 56:00 Why wisdom matters more than intelligence 1:03:00 Ken's unfinished business Connect with Ken Instagram: https://instagram.com/kenokazaki Facebook: https://facebook.com/kenokazaki 20X Agency: https://20xa.co [https://20xa.co] Unfinished Business with Eric Mulvin If you enjoy conversations with leaders who are building businesses, reinventing themselves, and creating impact, make sure to subscribe and turn on notifications. * Instagram: @bizwitheric [https://www.instagram.com/bizwitheric/] * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560126743830 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560126743830] * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bizwitheric [https://www.tiktok.com/@bizwitheric] * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BizWithEric [https://www.youtube.com/@BizWithEric] * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mulvin/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mulvin/] Powered by Pac Biz Outsourcing Pac Biz Outsourcing helps transportation, SaaS, software, and eCommerce companies scale customer support and back-office operations with dedicated teams in the Philippines. 🌐 Learn more: https://pac-biz.com [https://pac-biz.com]📩 Email: info@pac-biz.com 🎧 Podcast: https://pac-biz.com/podcast [https://pac-biz.com/podcast]

[AI Series] The Future Belongs to Great Storytellers | Lindsey Mastis

In this episode of Unfinished Business, host Eric Mulvin sits down with Lindsey Mastis, a four time Emmy and regional Edward R. Morrow award winning journalist, international keynote speaker, and the founder of Blue Moves Media. Lindsey holds the distinction of being the first local television news anchor in the United States to have artificial intelligence as her official, dedicated reporting beat. After two decades in the fast paced world of broadcast journalism, Lindsey transitioned into full time entrepreneurship to help AI and tech leaders sharpen their messaging, build trust, and communicate complex technological concepts to the public. In this conversation, Lindsey shares her journey from chasing news stories on the early morning shift to launching her own media advisory firm. She and Eric dive deep into the challenges of maintaining trust in artificial intelligence, the rapidly accelerating pace of tech development, the risk of losing media history due to outdated archiving systems, and the vital importance of human connection in an increasingly automated world. Show Notes 00:00 – Episode introduction and PacBiz Outsourcing sponsor message. 02:55 – Introducing Lindsey Mastis and how Eric met her. 07:39 – Launching the first local news AI beat successfully. 17:27 – Transitioning from corporate media to launching Blue Moves. 20:02 – Advising tech founders to solve the AI trust gap. 35:00 – Sharing family business ownership experiences with children. 48:00 – Evaluating generative AI tools and creative copyright hurdles. 54:20 – Why Creativity Still Starts with Humans 58:40 – Why Exposure Shapes Future Entrepreneurs  1:06:32 – Debunking why founders cannot just ChatGPT business growth. 1:10:19 – Global broadcast historical data disappearing from station archives. 1:16:40 – Why human connection is increasingly valuable and irreplaceable. 1:21:40 – United Nations AI summits keynote details and registration. Connect with Lindsey Mastis [lindsey@bluemovesmedia.com] BUSINESS: * Website: https://lindseymastis.com/ [https://lindseymastis.com/] * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/lindseymastis [https://www.youtube.com/lindseymastis] MUSIC: * Website: https://amoreenamusic.com/ [https://amoreenamusic.com/] * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@amoreenamusic [https://www.youtube.com/@amoreenamusic] EVENTS: * WSIS Forum 2026: https://www.itu.int/net4/wsis/forum/2026/en/Home/Registration [https://www.itu.int/net4/wsis/forum/2026/en/Home/Registration] Unfinished Business with Eric Mulvin If you enjoy conversations with leaders who are building businesses, reinventing themselves, and creating impact, make sure to subscribe and turn on notifications. * Instagram: @bizwitheric [https://www.instagram.com/bizwitheric/] * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560126743830 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560126743830] * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bizwitheric [https://www.tiktok.com/@bizwitheric] * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BizWithEric [https://www.youtube.com/@BizWithEric] * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mulvin/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mulvin/] Powered by Pac Biz Outsourcing Pac Biz Outsourcing helps transportation, SaaS, software, and eCommerce companies scale customer support and back-office operations with dedicated teams in the Philippines. 🌐 Learn more: https://pac-biz.com [https://pac-biz.com]📩 Email: info@pac-biz.com 🎧 Podcast: https://pac-biz.com/podcast [https://pac-biz.com/podcast]

[Creator Series] From Dumaguete to Global Storytelling | Benzi Florendo

What happens when a kid who loves drawing grows up to tell stories seen by millions around the world? In this episode of Unfinished Business, Eric Mulvin sits down with visual artist, photographer, filmmaker, and storyteller Benzi Florendo to explore his remarkable journey from growing up in Dumaguete to creating content featured by the BBC, LA Times, ABS-CBN, GMA, and major international brands. Benzi shares how a love for art started at age five, why Dumaguete became a breeding ground for creativity, and how a simple downhill race video unexpectedly launched opportunities beyond his hometown. He also reveals his philosophy of storytelling, why emotion matters more than equipment, and how documenting authentic human experiences has shaped his career. Whether you're a creator, entrepreneur, artist, or someone pursuing an unconventional path, this conversation offers valuable lessons about curiosity, persistence, and the power of telling meaningful stories. SHOW NOTES 00:00 Welcome to Unfinished Business Eric introduces the show and today's guest, visual artist, photographer, filmmaker, and storyteller Benzi Florendo. 02:15 Growing Up Between Manila and Dumaguete Benzi shares his family's move from Manila to Dumaguete and how the city shaped his upbringing. 05:10 Why Dumaguete Captures People's Hearts The unique culture, lifestyle, and charm that make Dumaguete one of the world's top retirement destinations. 08:20 The City's Artistic Influence How Dumaguete became known for artists, writers, and creative thinkers. 11:15 Discovering Art at an Early Age Benzi's first experiences with drawing, poster-making contests, and creative expression. 14:00 Choosing Fine Arts Instead of a Traditional Career Why he pursued creativity when many peers followed more conventional professions. 17:20 Falling in Love with Photography How experimenting with his father's camera sparked a lifelong passion. 20:05 Becoming a Multi-Disciplinary Creative Why Benzi embraced photography, filmmaking, murals, graphic design, and digital art. 23:10 Learning by Saying "Yes" How taking opportunities before feeling ready accelerated his growth. 26:00 The Downhill Race Video That Changed Everything The story behind the viral project that opened doors and expanded his career. 31:15 Why Storytelling Matters More Than Technology Benzi explains his approach to creating emotional impact through visual content. 35:40 Capturing Authentic Moments The difference between taking photos and telling stories. 39:10 Creating Content People Can Feel How emotion drives memorable photography and filmmaking. 43:30 Building a Creative Career Through Curiosity The mindset that helped Benzi continuously learn new skills and adapt. 47:00 Lessons from Working with Brands and Public Figures Insights from collaborating with major companies and influential personalities. 51:15 Creativity, Community, and the Future Benzi reflects on where he's headed next and what continues to inspire him. Follow Paul Benzi Florendo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulbenzi/ [https://www.instagram.com/paulbenzi/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paul.b.florendo [https://www.facebook.com/paul.b.florendo] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-benzi-florendo-b4581923b/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-benzi-florendo-b4581923b/] Unfinished Business with Eric Mulvin If you enjoy conversations with leaders who are building businesses, reinventing themselves, and creating impact, make sure to subscribe and turn on notifications. * Instagram: @bizwitheric [https://www.instagram.com/bizwitheric/] * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560126743830 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560126743830] * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bizwitheric [https://www.tiktok.com/@bizwitheric] * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BizWithEric [https://www.youtube.com/@BizWithEric] * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mulvin/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mulvin/] Powered by Pac Biz Outsourcing Pac Biz Outsourcing helps transportation, SaaS, software, and eCommerce companies scale customer support and back-office operations with dedicated teams in the Philippines. 🌐 Learn more: https://pac-biz.com [https://pac-biz.com]📩 Email: info@pac-biz.com 🎧 Podcast: https://pac-biz.com/podcast [https://pac-biz.com/podcast]

[Making an Impact Series] Tragedy Hits Close to Home | Eric Mulvin

When disaster strikes the communities that power your business, how do you step up as a leader?  In this special solo episode of the Unfinished Business Podcast, host Eric Mulvin shares an urgent update from Dumaguete, Philippines. Following a devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck the neighboring island of Mindanao on Monday, Eric pulls back the curtain on the reality of the situation on the ground. While the Pac Biz team is safe, countless local communities have been impacted by collapsed buildings, loss of life, and destroyed infrastructure. True to the company's core value of compassion, Eric discusses how business leaders and the global community can step up to support relief and recovery efforts. Tune in to find out how you can stay informed and help the people of the Philippines when they need it most. Show Notes * [01:01] An Unexpected Update from Asia: Eric discusses his recent travels and arriving in Dumaguete right as disaster struck nearby. * [01:46] The Impact of the 7.8 Earthquake: A sobering look at the damage in Mindanao, including collapsed infrastructure and the tragic loss of lives. * [02:45] Standing on Core Values: Why "compassion" drives Pac Biz to launch a fundraising effort involving clients, vendors, and staff. * [03:44] How You Can Help: How to track official, direct-to-people donation pathways through Eric’s social channels. Unfinished Business with Eric Mulvin If you enjoy conversations with leaders who are building businesses, reinventing themselves, and creating impact, make sure to subscribe and turn on notifications. * Instagram: @bizwitheric [https://www.instagram.com/bizwitheric/] * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560126743830 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560126743830] * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bizwitheric [https://www.tiktok.com/@bizwitheric] * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BizWithEric [https://www.youtube.com/@BizWithEric] * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mulvin/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mulvin/] Powered by Pac Biz Outsourcing Pac Biz Outsourcing helps transportation, SaaS, software, and eCommerce companies scale customer support and back-office operations with dedicated teams in the Philippines. 🌐 Learn more: https://pac-biz.com [https://pac-biz.com]📩 Email: info@pac-biz.com 🎧 Podcast: https://pac-biz.com/podcast [https://pac-biz.com/podcast]