Episode 76: Bill Sincavage, Founder & Owner, Sinc Law Firm

Episode 86: Mark Rosano, Founder & CEO, C6 Capital Holdings LLC

In this episode of the Think Small podcast, Mark Rosano, founder and CEO of C6 Capital Holding joins the conversation to share his fascinating professional journey and expert insights into the complex intersections of geopolitics and global markets. Drawing from an extensive career that includes managing diverse funds at Morgan Stanley and working on energy projects throughout the Middle East, Rosano discusses the evolution of his investment philosophy and the founding of C6 Capital Holding. He provides a deeply personal account of the challenges he faced while starting his own fund, including a family medical crisis that eventually led him to refocus his business on private sector energy infrastructure and agriculture. The discussion dives deep into the current global economic landscape, with Rosano offering detailed analysis on the causes of rising energy and commodity costs. He explains his "well-to-heel" approach to supply chains and provides a pragmatic look at the limitations of various energy sources, from renewables like solar and wind to the potential future of nuclear power. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on safeguarding against runaway inflation through tangible, commodity-based investments and understanding the critical importance of self-sufficiency in an increasingly volatile world. Connect: Website: https://www.c6capitalholdings.com/ [https://www.c6capitalholdings.com/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-rossano-6a17419/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-rossano-6a17419/]

Episode 85: Love, Fear, and Greed: Why a 36-Year Manufacturing Veteran Chose Love as His Leadership Strategy - Matt Hanks, CEO, Velentium Medical

In this episode of the Think Small Podcast, Matt Hanks, CEO of Valentia Medical, shares how the company has become a trusted partner behind some of the most advanced implantable medical devices in the world. From cardiac management systems and neuromodulation technologies to deep brain stimulators, Valentia helps bring life-changing innovations to market through its expertise in product development, manufacturing, cybersecurity, and automated testing. Matt reflects on his 36-year manufacturing career, the transition into the CEO role, and how a culture built on honor, accountability, and trust has fueled the company’s rapid growth and industry recognition. Matt also discusses the challenges facing today’s medical device companies, including cybersecurity requirements, regulatory complexity, supply chain resilience, and commercialization hurdles. He explains why trust is Valentia’s most valuable product, how the company measures success through customer outcomes, and why leadership ultimately comes down to serving people with integrity and purpose. This conversation offers valuable insights for business leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators looking to build scalable organizations, develop strong cultures, and create lasting impact in highly regulated industries. Connect: Website: https://velentiummedical.com/ [https://velentiummedical.com/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-hanks-9bb46311/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-hanks-9bb46311/]

Episode 84: Carolyn Brand, Founder and CEO, SpanHR

In this episode of the Think Small Podcast, Carolyn Brand discusses how Span HR helps scaling businesses navigate the people challenges that emerge during rapid growth. Carolyn explains how her team provides integrated HR support tailored to a company’s stage of development, stepping in with everything from hiring and onboarding to employee relations and operational structure. She shares how founders often become overwhelmed managing people operations while trying to scale their businesses, and how Span HR helps relieve that pressure by building systems that support long-term growth, leadership transition, and organizational stability. Carolyn also dives into the realities of growing her own business, sharing insights on leadership, marketing, and the mindset challenges that come with entrepreneurship. She talks about the importance of operational documentation, networking, and relationship-driven business development, while emphasizing that many CEOs struggle with the emotional weight of scaling a company. Throughout the conversation, Carolyn offers practical advice for founders on recognizing growth-related warning signs, building sustainable infrastructure, and understanding that the right people systems can become a major catalyst for business success. Connect: Website: https://spanhr.com/ [https://spanhr.com/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynannbrand/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynannbrand/]

Episode 83: Myrto Koimtzoglou, Chief Operating Officer, Farmers Insurance Federal Credit Union

In this episode of the Think Small Podcast, Myrto Koimtzoglou shares her journey from global banking and legal compliance into the mission-driven world of credit unions. Drawing from her experience at major financial institutions, Myrto explains how she found greater purpose and impact at Farmers Insurance Federal Credit Union, where the focus is centered on community, member relationships, and personalized financial solutions. She discusses the organization’s commitment to becoming a trusted financial partner for individuals, families, and small businesses through tailored services, innovative banking products, and a strong culture of listening to member feedback. Myrto also offers an inside look at the credit union’s ambitious transformation and growth strategy, including digital modernization, expanded business banking services, and the opening of a new branch in Burbank. She explains how operational excellence, agility, and member-focused decision-making are driving the organization forward as it evolves beyond traditional banking models. Throughout the conversation, Myrto highlights the importance of understanding customer needs, building strong financial infrastructure, and helping small businesses thrive through thoughtful banking partnerships and customized financial tools. Connect: Website: https://figfcu.org/ [https://figfcu.org/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/myrto-koimtzoglou-58975a6/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/myrto-koimtzoglou-58975a6/]

Episode 82: Sean Hicks, CEO and founder, New Leaf Service Contracts Inc.

In this episode of the Think Small podcast, Sean Hicks, founder and CEO of New Leaf Service Contracts, shares how his company carved out a niche in the extended warranty and service contract industry by focusing on independent and regional retailers often overlooked by larger competitors. Sean explains how New Leaf helps retailers compete against big-box stores through customized protection plans, customer-focused service, and innovative offerings like store credit reimbursements and fast repair guarantees. He also discusses the importance of relationships in building the business and how steady, incremental improvements have fueled the company’s long-term growth. Sean also reflects on the major challenges New Leaf has faced, from navigating explosive 40% year-over-year growth to surviving the operational disruptions caused by COVID-19. He opens up about difficult decisions around staffing, outsourcing, and adapting to shifting consumer expectations in an increasingly demanding marketplace. Along the way, Sean offers valuable insight into leadership, customer service, automation, and the future of independent retailers in industries like appliances, electronics, and furniture. His perspective highlights why personalized service and strong retailer relationships continue to give smaller businesses a competitive edge in a rapidly changing economy. Connect: Website: https://trynewleaf.com/ [https://trynewleaf.com/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanhicks/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanhicks/]