Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast From Underdog to Entrepreneur: Building Dreams with Pat Miller
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| Close Customers for Life | #9 (Josh Cadillac) | 05 Feb 2026 | 00:53:20 | |
What if success wasn't about closing deals—but about eliminating the option to quit? In this episode, real estate coach, investor, and author Josh Cadillac joins host Pat Miller to break down what it really means to build a business that lasts. From being raised in entrepreneurship at age nine, to losing everything in the 2008 crash, Josh shares how underdogs win—by outworking, outlasting, and outthinking the competition. Together, Pat and Josh unpack the mindset shifts, discipline, and systems required to turn clients into lifelong relationships and chaos into momentum. Key takeaways include:
If you're building something from the ground up—and refusing to take the off-ramp—this conversation will remind you why underdogs win more often than anyone expects.
✨ Connect with Host Pat Miller
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| Turning Adversity Into Power | #8 (Rosemary Cescolini) | 29 Jan 2026 | 01:05:27 | |
What if the setback you're facing right now is actually your greatest opportunity? In this episode, host Pat Miller sits down with entrepreneur, manufacturer, and mentor Rosemary Cescolini to unpack a powerful journey that began in teaching and evolved into building a multi-generation construction and manufacturing legacy. From learning the shop floor in a male-dominated industry to growing over 200 product designs and mentoring the next wave of entrepreneurs, Rosemary shares what it really takes to pivot, lead, and endure. Key themes include:
If you're standing at a crossroads in your career—or wondering how to turn experience into impact—this conversation will challenge you to lift your head, stay ready, and move when opportunity shows up.
Connect with Rosemary: Instagram: @rosemarycescolini ✨ Connect with Host Pat Miller
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| Lawyers Who Think Like CEOs | #7 (Damian Conforti) | 22 Jan 2026 | 01:02:32 | |
What happens when a lawyer stops thinking like a prosecutor—and starts thinking like a business owner? In this episode, Pat Miller sits down with Damian Conforti, a former prosecutor turned trusted corporate counsel, to unpack what it really means to practice the business of law. Damian shares how relearning law through an entrepreneurial lens transformed the way he advises CEOs, founders, and leadership teams facing real-world operational and governance challenges. Rather than just reacting to legal problems, Damian explains why the most valuable counsel anticipates risk, understands the business inside and out, and empowers leaders to make smarter decisions—before issues ever reach the courtroom. In this conversation, you'll hear about:
If you're a founder, executive, or advisor navigating high-stakes decisions, this episode will change how you think about law, leadership, and long-term strategy. Press play and start thinking like both an owner and a lawyer.
✨ Connect with Host Pat Miller
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| From Rock Bottom to Relentless | #6 (Dan Sachkowsky) | 15 Jan 2026 | 01:04:48 | |
A heart attack, a bankruptcy, and a lifetime of grit pushed Dan Sachkowsky to rebuild himself—and redefine what success really means. In this powerful conversation, Dan ("Big D") opens up about humble beginnings, multimillion-dollar wins, losing everything, and the wake-up call that turned pain into purpose. He and host Pat Miller dive deep into what it really takes to grow a business, lead with integrity, and build a life that actually matters. In this episode, you'll learn:
Dan's journey is a reminder that success isn't what you have—it's who you become. Lean in, get inspired, and let this episode push you toward the life you know you're meant to build. Connect with Dan Sachkowsky Website: DanSachkowsky.com Instagram: thepatmiller11
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| From Battlefield to Boardroom | #5 (Chris Graffagnino) | 08 Jan 2026 | 01:10:33 | |
What happens when life forces you to reinvent yourself? In this episode, Pat sits down with Chris Graffagnino — Army Veteran, Purple Heart Recipient, and Founder of Graff Global — to talk about how an unexpected injury and an unshakable instinct led him from law enforcement to building an international risk management enterprise. Chris opens up about betting on himself, navigating unknowns, losing friends along the way, and why complacency is the enemy of progress. Key Themes:
Chris's journey is proof that the underdog can win — if they're willing to leap, learn, and keep climbing. Tune in and get inspired to take your next step.
✨ Connect with Chris Graffagnino ✨ Connect with Pat Miller
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| Turning Underdog Energy Into Impact | #4 (Ron Nussbaum) | 01 Jan 2026 | 00:54:39 | |
Most people run from the hard road — Ron Nussbaum runs toward it. In this episode, Pat sits down with Marine veteran, software founder, and Construction Champions podcast host Ron Nussbaum to talk about what it really means to start from nothing and build a life you're proud of. Ron shares how the underdog mindset shaped his journey from working his way up in construction, to walking away from the "safe path," to launching his own software company and mission-driven work supporting veterans. In this episode, we cover:
This is a conversation about grit, clarity, faith, and finding the courage to build the life you were actually meant to live — not the one you settled for. Lean in and get inspired to take your next step. Connect with Ron Nussbaum: Connect with Pat Miller:
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| From Tragedy to Triumph in the Barber World | #3 (Lena Piccininni) | 25 Dec 2025 | 00:48:33 | |
When life gave her no choice but to rise, Lena Piccininni built a career—and a legacy—out of pure grit. In this episode, Lena shares how losing her father at 17 forced her into survival mode, eventually leading her into the male-dominated world of barbering where she had to earn every ounce of respect. From teaching nationwide with Pacinos, to building a loyal client base from scratch, to launching her own product line Manan Haircare, Lena reveals how confidence, resilience, and relentless work ethic transformed her from an underdog into a thriving entrepreneur. She also opens up about balancing motherhood, running a studio, and scaling a brand that's now carried in salons across multiple states. Key Takeaways:
Lena's story is a reminder that strength is born in the hardest seasons—and that anyone willing to outwork their circumstances can build something extraordinary.
🔗 Connect with Lena Piccininni Website: mananbeauty.com Instagram: @thepatmiller11 | |||
| From Garage Dream to Coastal Movement | #2 (Tomas Gesumaria) | 18 Dec 2025 | 01:00:19 | |
What if your side hustle on a school bus became a coastal lifestyle brand?
Key themes:
Dive in for a conversation about grit, growth, and the wave of entrepreneurship that starts with a single spark. ✨ Connect with Tomas Gesumaria: ✨ Connect with Pat Miller: | |||
| The Underdog Advantage: Turning Setbacks Into Strength | #1 | 11 Dec 2025 | 00:15:08 | |
What if being overlooked was actually your greatest advantage? In this solo episode, host Pat Miller shares her powerful journey from loss and survival to resilience and success. Starting with just $100 and a relentless will to provide for her family, Pat reveals how being an underdog has shaped her path as an entrepreneur—and why your disadvantages can become the very foundation of your success. You'll discover:
Pat's story is proof that you don't need permission to build your dream—you just need grit, clarity, and the courage to keep moving forward. If she can do it, so can you.
✨ Connect with Pat Miller: Website: patmiller.net
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| Always Be Curious, Not Closing | #10 (Ron Marvo) | 12 Feb 2026 | 00:38:20 | |
What if the fight that almost broke you became the discipline that built your success? In this episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur, host Pat Miller sits down with business development coach, former Golden Gloves champion, and podcast host Ron Marvo to unpack a journey shaped by resilience, grit, and relentless curiosity. From a life-altering childhood crisis to championship boxing and ultimately building a scalable business development framework, Ron shares how discipline, trust, and asking better questions can change everything. Together, Pat and Ron break down what separates transactional selling from true business leadership—and why the best entrepreneurs stop chasing deals and start becoming the most trusted resource in the room. Key takeaways from this episode:
If you're an underdog with a vision—and the courage to bet on yourself—this episode will challenge you to step into the ring and build something that lasts.
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| Building Wealth Without Entitlement | #11 (Blake Johnson) | 19 Feb 2026 | 00:52:29 | |
What if the money you leave your kids actually ruins them? In this episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur, Pat Miller sits down with nationally recognized estate planning attorney Blake Johnson to unpack why traditional inheritance often creates entitlement—and how intentional legacy planning builds stronger families instead. Blake shares his journey from working alongside his father to buying him out, scaling a multi-state law firm, and developing the Family Bank Method, a framework designed to teach responsibility, not dependency. Together, they dive into what it really means to build wealth that lasts, how entrepreneurs must evolve from survival mode to leadership, and why values matter more than money when building a business… or a family legacy. In this episode, you'll learn:
If you care about building wealth and raising capable, grounded humans, this episode will change how you think about success, money, and legacy.
Connect with Blake Johnson: https://www.linkedin.com/company/trustedepa/
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| Where Creativity Meets Construction | #12 (Rachel Niederhofer) | 26 Feb 2026 | 00:54:31 | |
What if the path you never planned becomes the one that transforms your life and business? In this conversation, luxury designer and strategic renovation advisor Rachel Niederhofer shares how she went from corporate finance to building a thriving design, construction-management, and real-estate brand. She opens up about the unexpected turns that shaped her entrepreneurial journey, the power of vision, and why mastering the fundamentals matters more than rushing the process. Rachel also reveals the real truth behind renovations, scaling as an investor, and why collaboration—not shortcuts—is the key to profitable, beautiful spaces. In this episode, we explore:
Rachel's story is an inspiring reminder that purpose evolves, skills compound, and the road to success rarely looks like the plan. Tune in and take the next step on your own entrepreneurial journey. Connect with Rachel Niederhofer: ✨ Connect with Host Pat Miller
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| Built From the Bronx: Real Estate, Resilience & Legacy | #13 (Steven Padernacht) | 03 Mar 2026 | 01:04:44 | |
What if the greatest business school you ever attended was your father's dinner table? Steven Padernacht grew up in the Bronx watching his father build a vertically integrated real estate business from the ground up, and those dinner-table deal talks became the foundation of Steven's own two-decade career in real estate. After losing his father at just 27, Steven took the five life lessons his dad left behind and turned them into a blueprint for building wealth, community, and legacy in one of New York's toughest markets. In this episode, Steven and host Pat Miller dig into the raw, unfiltered truth about entrepreneurship, the wins, the gut-punch losses, and the relentless mindset it takes to show up anyway. From Bronx apartment buildings to New Jersey developments, Steven's story is proof that where you come from doesn't define your ceiling. Key takeaways from this episode:
If you're an entrepreneur who's ever lost a deal, doubted yourself, or wondered whether it's all worth it, this one's for you. Get back up. Keep going. The windshield is bigger than the rearview mirror for a reason.
Connect with Host Pat Miller
Connect with Steven Padernacht: Instagram @steve_pad & @padernachtpodcast
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| She Bet on the Trades | #14 (Heather Creech) | 12 Mar 2026 | 01:00:37 | |
A random conversation in a crowded Nashville bar sparked a career shift that would change everything. On this episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur, host Pat Miller sits down with Heather Creech, Marketing and Business Development Manager at Echo Power Electric, to talk about how a former educator found her calling in the blue collar world. From mentoring students to championing workforce development, Heather shares how the trades opened doors she never expected and why more women and young people need to see what is possible. Together, they dive into:
This conversation is about grit, growth, and giving the next generation more than just options. It is about showing them the path. If you have ever felt stuck, underestimated, or unsure of your next move, this episode is your reminder that sometimes the path finds you when you least expect it. Listen in and see what could be waiting on the other side of opportunity.
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| What If Success Isn't About Speed, But About Staying Power? | #15 (Michael Grinberg) | 19 Mar 2026 | 01:00:48 | |
On this episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur, host Pat Miller sits down with Michael Grinberg, CEO and Founder of The RevOps Shop, to unpack a journey that starts in a tiny Brooklyn apartment and scales into the world of AI, tech, and high-growth entrepreneurship. From selling on eBay at 13 to working at HubSpot and launching his own AI-enabled services firm, Michael shares the sacrifices, risks, and lessons that shaped his path. Together, Pat and Michael dive into what today's entrepreneurs are getting wrong—and what actually builds lasting success. In this episode, you'll learn:
This is a conversation about grit, gratitude, relationships, and playing the long game. If you're building something meaningful—or thinking about it—this one's for you.
✨ Connect with Host Pat Miller Connect with Michael Grinberg | |||
| From Homelessness to Historic Success | #16 (Paul Lamar Hunter) | 26 Mar 2026 | 00:58:15 | |
What if the odds stacked against you were actually the beginning of your greatest story? In this powerful episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur, host Pat Miller sits down with author, speaker, and entrepreneur Paul Lamar Hunter, the 19th of 21 children who rose from poverty and homelessness to become the first in his family to graduate from college. Paul shares how rejection, hardship, and being told "no" by the media only fueled his determination to build a legacy of impact. From growing up in a massive family to honoring a mother who founded Wisconsin's first homeless shelter, Paul's story is a testament to perseverance, faith, and purpose. Today, he inspires the next generation through mentoring, speaking, and podcasting—proving that where you start doesn't determine where you finish. In this episode, you'll hear about:
If you've ever felt counted out, underestimated, or overlooked—this conversation will remind you that your story isn't over. Listen now and discover how underdogs become entrepreneurs.
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| Who You Are Isn't Who You Think | #18 (Jane Bond) | 09 Apr 2026 | 01:05:53 | |
What if the life you built isn't actually yours? In this episode, Pat Miller sits down with Jane Bond, a high-level strategist who helps successful people confront the truth beneath their achievements. From growing up in the hood to navigating multiple careers across industries, Jane shares how she had to unravel decades of identity to finally discover who she really is. This conversation dives deep into the hidden cost of success, the pressure of societal expectations, and what it really takes to reinvent yourself without losing everything in the process. Key Takeaways:
If you've ever felt like something is missing, this episode will challenge you to look inward and rebuild from the truth. ✨ Connect with Host Pat Miller Instagram thepatmiller11 Website patmiller.net
Connect with Jane Bond: https://paperbell.me/jane-bond Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janebond_ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janebond/
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| She Built Freedom the Hard Way | #17 (Sarah Saffari) | 02 Apr 2026 | 00:56:48 | |
She chased success and found burnout, then rebuilt everything on her own terms. Sarah Saffari shares her unconventional path from aspiring doctor to entrepreneur, revealing how a chance encounter while traveling sparked her vision for freedom. From opening a gym that made money but drained her life, to pivoting into marketing and building a global influencer agency, her journey is filled with risks, setbacks, and relentless self-belief. In this episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur with host Pat Miller, Sarah breaks down what it really takes to succeed as an entrepreneur and why most people quit too early. Key themes and takeaways:
If you've ever questioned your path or felt stuck between comfort and ambition, this conversation will push you forward.
Connect with Sarah Saffari Influencernexxus.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-saffari-890360165/
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| From Introvert to Immigration Powerhouse | #19 (Alka Bahal) | 16 Apr 2026 | 00:55:12 | |
She built a career helping others find opportunity while overcoming her own fears along the way. Alka Bahal, partner and chair of Corporate Immigration Services, shares how she went from a shy, introverted law student avoiding the courtroom to a respected leader with nearly 30 years of experience. Along the way, she reveals what it really takes to succeed in law, navigate complex systems, and build a reputation rooted in trust. In this episode, Alka and Pat dive into the realities of entrepreneurship, the challenges women still face in leadership, and the lessons learned from decades of working with people whose lives are on the line. Key themes:
If you've ever doubted your path or felt like an underdog, this conversation will remind you what's possible when you keep going. ✨ Connect with Host Pat Miller Instagram thepatmiller11 Website patmiller.net
Connect with Alka: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alkabahal/
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| Burnout Nearly Killed Him at 30 | #22 (Boomer Anderson) | 07 May 2026 | 00:58:11 | |
He looked perfectly healthy—until one test revealed a life-threatening truth at just 30 years old. In this episode, host Pat Miller sits down with Boomer Anderson, CEO of Smarter Not Harder Inc., who shares how a high-powered career in investment banking led to severe burnout, hidden heart disease, and a complete life pivot. What started as a personal health scare turned into a mission to help entrepreneurs optimize their health, performance, and longevity. Boomer breaks down why burnout isn't just "in your head," how stress silently destroys your body, and why most health advice online is misleading without personalization. In this episode, you'll learn:
If you're building a business but neglecting your health, this conversation might just change—and save—your life. ✨ Connect with Host Pat Miller Instagram thepatmiller11 Website https://patmiller.net/patmiller.net
Connect with Boomer Instagram: @troscriptions
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| Built on Grit, Not Passion | #21 (Courtney Spies) | 30 Apr 2026 | 00:53:29 | |
What if everything you've been told about "following your passion" is wrong? In this episode, Pat Miller sits down with Courtney Spies, Sales Director at Clark Dietrich, whose career started in the Yellow Pages and evolved into leading a major force in a male-dominated industry. Her journey wasn't driven by passion—it was built through grit, discipline, and the relentless pursuit of mastery. From cold calls to commanding rooms she "wasn't supposed to be in," Courtney proves that success isn't found—it's earned. In this episode, you'll learn:
If you've ever questioned your path, doubted your ability, or felt like you didn't belong in the room—this conversation will change the way you see everything. Because success isn't about where you start… it's about how hard you're willing to work to become who you're meant to be.
Instagram thepatmiller11 Website https://patmiller.net/patmiller.net
Connect with Courtney https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtneyspies | |||
| From Weddings to 25 Rental Properties | #20 (Cameron Philgreen) | 23 Apr 2026 | 00:49:24 | |
What if the life you want is just one pivot away? Cameron Philgreen went from shooting hundreds of weddings to building a real estate portfolio of 25+ properties, without using his own money. In this episode, he shares how a single book sparked his journey, how he leveraged the BRRRR method to create passive income, and how he's now scaling a thriving coffee business while protecting what matters most: his time and family. In this episode, you'll learn:
If you've ever felt stuck trading time for money, this conversation will challenge how you think about freedom, wealth, and what you're really building.
✨ Connect with Host Pat Miller Instagram thepatmiller11 Website patmiller.net
Connect with Cameron: https://www.youtube.com/@cameron_philgreen https://www.instagram.com/cameron_philgreen
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| She Built a Dream From Side Hustle | #23 (Alexa Englesbe) | 14 May 2026 | 00:52:31 | |
What starts as a side hustle can turn into a life you never imagined. In this episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur, Pat Miller sits down with Alexa Englesbe, founder of Alexa Lynn Photography, to unpack how she went from chasing a career in magazines to building a thriving photography business from the ground up. Through trial, networking, and relentless self-teaching, Alexa turned curiosity into craft—and craft into a full-time career. From Facebook groups to 26 weddings a year, Alexa shares the real journey behind building a brand in a saturated industry—and what it actually takes to stand out. In this episode, you'll learn:
If you've ever wondered whether you can build something of your own—this is your sign. ✨ Connect with Host Pat MillerInstagram thepatmiller11 Website https://patmiller.net/patmiller.net
Connect with Alexa: https://www.alexalynnphoto.com Instagram @alexa.lynn.photo Facebook: @AlexaLynnPhotos
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| Why Forgiveness Creates Momentum: From Prison to Purpose | #26 (David Fullmer) | 04 Jun 2026 | 00:49:38 | |
Success means nothing if you lose yourself chasing it. In this powerful episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur, host Pat Miller sits down with David to unpack the mindset shifts, daily rhythms, and painful life lessons that transformed him from a troubled teenager facing prison into a successful entrepreneur, coach, and mentor helping others unlock their purpose. David shares the philosophy behind his "B7 Rhythm," a seven-day framework built around motivation, gratitude, forgiveness, intuition, humility, and personal growth. He also opens up about bankruptcy, addiction, family struggles, rebuilding after failure, and why true wealth is about impact, not possessions. In this episode, you'll learn:
This conversation is a reminder that your past does not define your future. One decision can change everything. ✨ Connect with Host Pat Miller Instagram thepatmiller11 Website https://patmiller.net/patmiller.net
Connect with David https://www.becomingseven.com/ IG https://www.instagram.com/becomesevenofficial/ Tiktok : https://www.tiktok.com/@becomingseven?_t=8qekWWvSYOZ&_r=1 Fb : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61568176791201 YT : https://www.youtube.com/@BecomingSeven/videos
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| She Chose Groceries Over Dreams | #25 (Sarah Walton) | 28 May 2026 | 01:01:29 | |
At 16, Sarah Walton had to choose between feeding her family or chasing her dream. That painful moment shaped her beliefs about money, worth, and success for years until she finally rewrote the story. In this powerful conversation, host Pat Miller sits down with entrepreneur and coach Sarah Walton to unpack how childhood scarcity can silently control adult success, and how women can reclaim abundance, confidence, and personal power. Key Takeaways: If you've ever felt stuck between responsibility and your dreams, this episode will remind you that a new path is always possible. ✨ Connect with Host Pat Miller Instagram thepatmiller11 Website https://patmiller.net/patmiller.net Connect with Sarah www.sarahwalton.com
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| From Bankruptcy to Building Back | #24 (Kim Leo) | 21 May 2026 | 00:51:10 | |
What happens when you lose everything, trust the wrong people, and still find the strength to rebuild from scratch? In this powerful episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur, Pat Miller sits down with Chef Kim Leo, founder of Kitchen by Kim Cooks, to unpack her incredible journey from restaurant legacy to bankruptcy, betrayal, Hurricane Sandy, and painful business collapses, all before rising again through grit, faith, and purpose. Kim shares how Covid unexpectedly became her breakthrough, transforming her home kitchen hustle into a thriving business while helping others along the way. In this episode, you'll discover: This is more than a story about food. It's about survival, reinvention, and proving that your greatest comeback can come after your hardest fall. ✨ Connect with Host Pat Miller Instagram thepatmiller11 Website https://patmiller.net/patmiller.net Connect with Kim Facebook @KimCooks Instagram @KitchenbyKimCooks
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| The Book I Had to Write | #27 | 11 Jun 2026 | 00:18:33 | |
What if every setback you've survived was actually preparing you for something bigger? In this special six-month anniversary episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur, host Pat Miller steps behind the guest chair and into the spotlight to share the story she's never fully told before. Pat introduces her upcoming book, Underdog to Empire: Breaking Barriers and Building Businesses with Strength, Strategy, and a Sense of Humor, and reads powerful excerpts that reveal the grit, heartbreak, resilience, and determination behind her entrepreneurial journey. From growing up overlooked and underestimated, to building a construction company with just $100, to rebuilding her life after the loss of her husband and business partner, Pat shares the lessons that shaped both her business and her life. In this episode:
This episode is a celebration of resilience, entrepreneurship, and the underdog spirit that refuses to quit. If you've ever wondered whether the hard road is worth it, this conversation is for you. Your story isn't over. Your next chapter might be the one that changes everything. ✨ Connect with Host Pat Miller Instagram thepatmiller11 Website https://patmiller.net/patmiller.net
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| More Than Just Luck | #28 (Greg Wier) | 18 Jun 2026 | 01:01:22 | |
What if the biggest thing standing between you and success is the excuse you've been telling yourself? In this candid conversation, Pat Miller sits down with entrepreneur, author, and security industry veteran Greg Wier to unpack the hard lessons behind building and selling multimillion-dollar companies. From becoming a young father with no money and a failed business to leading a national security empire, Greg shares the unfiltered stories that shaped his journey. Along the way, he reveals why bad partnerships nearly destroyed him, how work ethic opened doors that education couldn't, and why resilience matters more than talent when building a business that lasts. Key takeaways: Whether you're launching your first business or navigating the challenges of scaling one, this episode is packed with real-world wisdom from someone who has lived through the highs, lows, lawsuits, setbacks, and victories of entrepreneurship. Success is rarely luck. It's built one decision, one lesson, and one hard-earned experience at a time. Tune in and discover what's possible when you refuse to quit. ✨ Connect with Host Pat Miller Instagram thepatmiller11 Website https://patmiller.net/patmiller.net
Connect with Greg: https://www.gregwier.com TikTok, YouTube | |||
| The Master Closer Reveals Why You Can't Close | With Kayvon Kay | 09 Jul 2026 | 00:55:25 | |
If you've ever wondered why you can't close a sale, this episode is for you. In this powerful episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur: Building Dreams, host Pat Miller sits down with Kayvon Kay, internationally recognized keynote speaker, Master Closer, sales strategist, and revenue architect, to break down the psychology behind closing deals and why most entrepreneurs unknowingly sabotage their own sales. Kayvon shares the mindset shifts, communication skills, and sales techniques that separate top performers from everyone else. From handling objections with confidence to understanding why people really buy, he explains that great sales isn't about pressure or manipulation. It's about creating trust, solving problems, and becoming someone people naturally want to buy from. The conversation also explores the rapid rise of AI and how today's entrepreneurs can use technology to sell more effectively without losing the human connection that ultimately wins business. Whether you're a business owner, freelancer, salesperson, or entrepreneur, you'll discover practical insights that can immediately improve your ability to influence, communicate, and grow revenue. If you're looking for actionable sales training, better ways of overcoming objections, and proven methods for how to close a sale, this episode delivers a masterclass from one of the industry's leading experts. What You'll Learn
Kayvon Kay is a globally recognized keynote speaker, sales strategist, revenue architect, and Master Closer who has trained thousands of entrepreneurs, founders, and sales professionals around the world. Through one-on-one coaching, group programs, live events, and corporate training, Kayvon helps businesses increase revenue by mastering communication, improving sales performance, and building scalable systems that consistently close more deals. His practical approach combines psychology, leadership, and modern technology to help professionals sell with confidence while creating genuine, long-term relationships with clients. Connect with Kayvon KayWebsite - https://kayvon.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kayvonkay/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@kayvonkay Connect with Pat MillerWebsite: https://patmiller.net/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thepatmiller11 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thepatmiller11/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepatmiller11/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePatMiller11/ If you enjoyed this episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur: Building Dreams with Pat Miller, subscribe for weekly conversations with entrepreneurs, business leaders, and industry experts who share the real stories, lessons, and strategies behind building successful businesses.
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| Building a $1.5B Real Estate Empire from a Cubicle | Mark Khuri | 02 Jul 2026 | 00:46:02 | |
In this inspiring episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur: Building Dreams with Pat Miller, Pat sits down with Mark Khuri, CEO and Co-Founder of SMK Capital Management, to uncover the remarkable journey from working in a corporate cubicle to building a $1.5 billion real estate investment portfolio. Mark shares how a simple conversation with a coworker sparked his passion for real estate investing and led him to purchase his first property while still working a full-time corporate job. Through persistence, calculated risks, and years of learning, he transitioned from fixing up duplexes after work to leading a private equity firm with investments spanning more than 120 properties across 36 states. The conversation dives deep into today's real estate market, recession-resistant investment strategies, mobile home park investing, passive income opportunities, and the importance of diversification when building long-term wealth. Mark also opens up about setbacks, including a devastating property fire, lessons learned from raising investment capital, and why character and relationships matter more than chasing quick profits. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned investor, or someone looking to build financial freedom through real estate, this episode delivers practical insights and timeless business wisdom. What You'll Learn
Mark Khuri is the CEO and Co-Founder of SMK Capital Management, a family-owned private equity real estate firm specializing in institutional-quality, recession-resistant investments. With more than two decades of experience, Mark has participated in over 120 real estate investments valued at more than $1.5 billion and has built more than 70 successful investment partnerships. His mission is helping investors create long-term wealth through carefully selected passive real estate opportunities while emphasizing education, integrity, and disciplined investing. Connect with Mark KhuriWebsite: https://www.smkcap.com Learn more about SMK Capital Management and explore educational resources on passive real estate investing. Connect with Pat MillerIf you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to From Underdog to Entrepreneur: Building Dreams with Pat Miller for inspiring conversations with entrepreneurs who have overcome obstacles, built successful businesses, and continue helping others achieve their dreams. New episodes released regularly.
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| Skate Where the Puck Is Going | #29 (John Petrocelli) | 25 Jun 2026 | 00:55:49 | |
What if the biggest opportunities are hiding where everyone else isn't looking? In this episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur, Pat Miller sits down with John Petrocelli, founder and CEO of Bulldog DM, whose work has generated more than 1 billion audience engagements for brands including Apple, Coca-Cola, Samsung, Netflix, and YouTube. John shares his journey from working in telecommunications and Hollywood mailrooms to helping pioneer the livestreaming industry. Along the way, he collaborated with Prince on one of the first direct-to-consumer music platforms, learned entrepreneurial lessons from Mark Cuban, and built a business by constantly anticipating where technology was heading next. In this conversation, you'll learn: • Why successful entrepreneurs focus on where the market is going, not where it is today John's story is a powerful reminder that innovation rewards those willing to adapt, experiment, and stay curious. If you're building a business, reinventing your career, or searching for your next big opportunity, this episode will challenge you to think bigger and move faster. ✨ Connect with Host Pat Miller Instagram thepatmiller11 Website https://patmiller.net/patmiller.net
Connect with John: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnpetrocelli https://bulldogdm.com | |||
| From Wall Street to Dog Walking Empire | 22 Jul 2026 | 01:05:12 | |
From Wall Street to Dog Walking Empire What happens when you walk away from a 22-year career on Wall Street to pursue something completely different? In this episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur: Building Dreams with Pat Miller, host Pat Miller sits down with Amanda Anderson, founder of Ring and Run Dog Walkers, to explore her remarkable transition from the fast-paced world of New York's Financial District to building one of Staten Island's premier dog walking businesses. Amanda shares how she recognized the changing landscape of Wall Street, started building her business while still employed, and eventually turned a side hustle into a thriving company. She explains why entrepreneurship isn't always about chasing millions, but about creating a lifestyle you genuinely enjoy. Throughout the conversation, Amanda offers honest advice on hiring, setting boundaries, automating operations, building customer trust, and creating systems that allow a business to grow without consuming your entire life. Her story is a powerful reminder that success can look different for everyone. Whether you're considering leaving a corporate career, building a service business, or looking for inspiration to pursue a more meaningful path, this episode delivers practical lessons from someone who successfully made the leap. What You'll Learn
Amanda Anderson is the founder and owner of Ring and Run Dog Walkers, Staten Island's premier dog walking service. After spending more than two decades working on the trading floor in New York City's Financial District, Amanda made the bold decision to pursue entrepreneurship full-time. Today, she has built a trusted pet care business known for exceptional customer service, strong client relationships, and personalized care. Amanda combines her passion for animals with a people-first approach, proving that businesses built on trust, reputation, and genuine service can thrive through referrals and organic growth. Connect with Amanda AndersonFollow Amanda and Ring and Run Dog Walkers on social media to learn more about her entrepreneurial journey, pet care insights, and growing a service-based business with purpose. Website - https://ringandrundogwalkers.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-anderson-707a4512/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RingandRunDogWalkers/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ringandrundogwalkers/?hl=en Connect with Pat MillerFollow Pat Miller for more conversations with entrepreneurs who share the real stories behind building successful businesses. Website: https://patmiller.net/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thepatmiller11 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thepatmiller11/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepatmiller11/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePatMiller11/ Subscribe to From Underdog to Entrepreneur: Building Dreams with Pat Miller for weekly interviews with entrepreneurs, founders, and business leaders sharing the lessons, challenges, pivots, and wins that shaped their success.
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| Music Producer to LA Entrepreneur — How He Built Both | With Connor Treacy | 16 Jul 2026 | 00:52:59 | |
What does it take to go from organizing small events at 19 years old to working with Grammy-winning artists, launching one of Hollywood's hottest nightlife venues, and building a successful talent management company? In this episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur: Building Dreams with Pat Miller, host Pat Miller sits down with Connor Treacy, an entrepreneur, talent manager, and former music producer who turned his passion for music and entertainment into a thriving business in Los Angeles. Connor shares his unconventional journey from promoting concerts while still in college to becoming one of Hollywood's most connected young promoters. He explains how those relationships led him to Universal Music Group, where he helped develop rising talent and worked alongside artists who would go on to win Grammy Awards. Later, he co-founded one of LA's most exclusive nightlife venues before pivoting once again to build his own management company. This conversation is packed with lessons on entrepreneurship, relationship building, calculated risk-taking, and adapting through uncertainty, including surviving the entertainment industry's shutdown during COVID-19. Whether you're pursuing a career in music, launching a startup, or building your own brand, Connor's story proves that success rarely follows a straight line. If you're interested in becoming a creative entrepreneur, building a music industry business, or learning how to turn passion into a sustainable company, this episode is full of practical insights. What You'll Learn
Connor Treacy is an entrepreneur, talent manager, and entertainment executive based in Los Angeles. After launching his entrepreneurial journey by promoting concerts and nightlife events, Connor built relationships that led to opportunities with Universal Music Group, where he worked alongside emerging artists and Grammy-winning talent. He later co-founded Off Sunset, one of Hollywood's most exclusive nightlife venues, before returning to his passion for talent management. Today, Connor helps build artists, brands, and strategic partnerships across music, entertainment, hospitality, and culture while continuing to grow his management company. He recently completed his MBA at USC Marshall, combining real-world entrepreneurial experience with advanced business strategy. Connect with Connor TreacyWebsite:https://connortreacy.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theconnortreacy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortreacy/ Connect with Pat MillerFollow Pat Miller for more entrepreneurial insights, business strategies, and inspiring conversations with successful founders and business leaders. Website: https://patmiller.net/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thepatmiller11 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thepatmiller11/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepatmiller11/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePatMiller11/ Subscribe to From Underdog to Entrepreneur: Building Dreams with Pat Miller for weekly conversations with entrepreneurs who share the real stories, lessons, failures, and successes behind building thriving businesses. If you're passionate about entrepreneurship, leadership, business growth, entertainment, and personal development, this podcast is designed to help you build your dream. New episodes are released regularly.
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| Why Diversity Training Fails and What Actually Works. | 29 Jul 2026 | 00:55:22 | |
Why Diversity Training Fails and What Actually Works What happens when you've spent 30 years telling CEOs the truth nobody else will? In this episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur, Pat Miller sits down with Mauricio Velasquez, president of Diversity Training Group (DTG) and author of the newly released book Tackling Toxicity: A Skills-Based Guide to Addressing Toxicity. Mauricio has trained, consulted, and coached over a million people across every U.S. state but one in a career spanning three decades. Mauricio opens up about starting his business on a houseboat in Baltimore's Inner Harbor, a $520-a-month setup with no insulation but a "billion-dollar view," and how growing up watching racism directed at his immigrant parents shaped his life's work. From there, he built a career doing the jobs nobody else wants to touch: sexual harassment training, executive coaching, and calling out toxic behavior that most companies would rather ignore. What You'll Learn
Mauricio Velasquez is the President of Diversity Training Group (DTG), a company he founded that is celebrating 30 years in business this year. Over the course of his career, he has trained, consulted, and coached more than a million people in every U.S. state except North Dakota. His work covers diversity and inclusion training, sexual harassment training, mentoring, and executive coaching, helping organizations and leaders address issues they'd often rather avoid. Mauricio is also the author of the newly released book Tackling Toxicity: A Skills-Based Guide to Addressing Toxicity, which draws on real stories from his three-decade career to teach practical, skills-based approaches for calling out toxic behavior in the workplace and beyond. He got his start in business working out of a houseboat in Baltimore's Inner Harbor, and his motivation for the work traces back to witnessing discrimination directed at his immigrant parents as a child. Connect with Mauricio VelasquezLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mauricio-velasquez-mba/ Website: https://www.diversitydtg.com/ Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/mauricio.velasquez.9484/reels/ Connect with Pat MillerFollow Pat Miller for more conversations with entrepreneurs who share the real stories behind building successful businesses. Website: https://patmiller.net/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thepatmiller11 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thepatmiller11/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepatmiller11/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePatMiller11/ Subscribe to From Underdog to Entrepreneur: Building Dreams with Pat Miller for weekly conversations with entrepreneurs who share the real stories, lessons, failures, and successes behind building thriving businesses. If you're passionate about entrepreneurship, leadership, business growth, entertainment, and personal development, this podcast is designed to help you build your dream. New episodes are released regularly.
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| 1.5 Million Gummies a Month The Cannabis Business Nobody Discusses | 20 Aug 2026 | 00:52:47 | |
From a same-day CBD delivery service to manufacturing over a million gummies a month, this is a business story most people never hear about. In this episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur, Pat Miller sits down with Steven Brown, founder and CEO of Nothing But Canna (formerly Nothing But Hemp), one of the first hemp dispensaries in the Midwest. Steven's path to cannabis wasn't a straight line; he served in the Marine Corps, worked in health and nutrition at GNC, climbed the ranks at T-Mobile, and worked in negotiation for aerospace and defense before launching his own marketing company at 28, where a client in the cannabis space opened the door to an entirely new industry. Steven shares how his now-wife's success using CBD for migraines convinced him hemp products could genuinely help people and how that belief turned into a business that has weathered credit card shutdowns, COVID furloughs, state regulatory attacks, and a looming federal hemp ban. Along the way, he helped pass Minnesota's first low-dose THC bill legislation that unintentionally sparked the nationwide THC beverage boom now found in liquor stores across the country. What You'll Learn
Steven Brown is the founder and CEO of Nothing But Canna (formerly Nothing But Hemp), one of the first hemp dispensaries in the Midwest, specializing in compliant cannabinoid formulations and manufacturing over 1.3 million gummies a month. Before entering the cannabis industry, Steven had a varied career path; he served in the Marine Corps, worked in health and nutrition at General Nutrition Centers (GNC), spent six years moving up the ranks at T-Mobile in the wireless industry, and worked with a negotiation firm in aerospace and defense. He got into cannabis after starting his own marketing company at 28 and taking on a client in the industry, which led him to launch a same-day CBD delivery service in Minnesota in 2018. Steven and his team went on to help pass Minnesota's first low-dose THC bill, legislation that helped spark the nationwide THC beverage trend now found in liquor stores across the country. Under his leadership, the company grew from one dispensary to eleven nationwide in a single year. Connect with Steven BrownWebsite: https://www.nothingbutcanna.net/pages/team LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/socialthis/ Connect with Pat Miller Follow Pat Miller for more conversations with entrepreneurs who share the real stories behind building successful businesses. Website: https://patmiller.net/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thepatmiller11 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thepatmiller11/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepatmiller11/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePatMiller11/ Subscribe to From Underdog to Entrepreneur: Building Dreams with Pat Miller for weekly conversations with entrepreneurs who share the real stories, lessons, failures, and successes behind building thriving businesses. If you're passionate about entrepreneurship, leadership, business growth, entertainment, and personal development, this podcast is designed to help you build your dream. New episodes are released regularly.
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| He Works for Someone Else But Thinks Like an Owner | Nicholas Verzicco | 13 Aug 2026 | 00:56:00 | |
Not every great career story starts with owning the company. In this episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur, Pat Miller switches things up to spotlight the other side of the journey building a name for yourself while working for someone else. Her guest is Nicholas Verzicco, who runs the construction management staffing division for New Jersey at Actalent (formerly Aerotech), placing hundreds of professionals with general contractors, subcontractors, and AEC firms. A five-time President's Club winner, Nicholas shares how a chance conversation with a former college classmate led him into an industry he never studied for recruiting and how he's built a thriving career in construction staffing just seven years out of college. Nicholas opens up about his path from Monmouth University, where he studied finance through the Educational Opportunity Fund program, to landing his first staffing role through a simple breakfast conversation and a willingness to take a chance on something unfamiliar. He and Pat dig into networking, mentorship, and what it really takes for young professionals to stand out in a competitive industry like construction. What You'll Learn
Nicholas Verzicco runs the construction management staffing division for New Jersey at Actalent, where he places professionals including project managers, superintendents, assistant project managers, and estimators with general contractors, subcontractors, and AEC firms. He has placed hundreds of people in the industry and has won the President's Club for five consecutive years. Nicholas is originally from Mays Landing, New Jersey, and attended Monmouth University through the Educational Opportunity Fund program, earning a degree in finance while serving as president of his Student Government Association, senior class president, and president of the club lacrosse team. He entered the staffing industry through a college connection and has spent close to seven years building his career at Actalent. Outside of work, Nicholas is involved in mentorship, participating in a program for high school students through the Lena Harris Foundation and supporting organizations like Professional Women in Construction (PWC). Connect with Nicholas VerziccoLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-verzicco-76a404151/ Connect with Pat MillerFollow Pat Miller for more entrepreneurial insights, business strategies, and inspiring conversations with successful founders and business leaders. Website: https://patmiller.net/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thepatmiller11 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thepatmiller11/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepatmiller11/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePatMiller11/ Subscribe to From Underdog to Entrepreneur: Building Dreams with Pat Miller for weekly conversations with entrepreneurs and professionals who share the real stories, lessons, failures, and successes behind building thriving careers and businesses. If you're passionate about entrepreneurship, leadership, career growth, and personal development, this podcast is designed to help you build your dream. New episodes are released regularly.
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| Cut From the NBA, Built a Million-Dollar Coaching Empire | 06 Aug 2026 | 00:54:29 | |
Cut From the NBA, Built a Million-Dollar Coaching Empire What does it take to turn 60 rejections into a nine-year pro basketball career and then build an entirely new business from scratch? In this episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur, Pat Miller sits down with Dre Baldwin, founder of Work On Your Game, a TEDx speaker, 43-time author, and former professional basketball player who spent nine years playing overseas. Dre shares how he went from a walk-on at a Division III college to building a company that helps entrepreneurs and experts install the mindset, systems, and strategy needed to scale from six to seven figures. Dre opens up about cold-calling 60 basketball agents and mailing VHS tapes of his footage just to land his first pro contract and how he started posting training videos on YouTube back in 2005, years before "influencer" was even a word. That early audience-building experience taught him lessons about ownership, platforms, and personal branding that still guide his business today. What You'll Learn
Dre Baldwin is the founder of Work On Your Game, a company that helps experts and entrepreneurs install the mindset, systems, and strategy needed to scale their businesses from six to seven figures. He's a TEDx speaker and a 43-time author. Before entrepreneurship, Dre spent nine years as a professional basketball player overseas, mostly in Europe, after walking on at the Division III college level. While still playing, he began posting training videos on YouTube back in 2005, building an audience that eventually extended beyond basketball players to professionals and entrepreneurs interested in his lessons on discipline, confidence, and mental toughness. In 2015, he stopped playing basketball to focus full-time on that mindset-driven business, moving through professional speaking before shifting into the consulting and coaching work he does today, centered on execution reliability and building presence and power in business. Connect with Dre Baldwin.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dreallday/ Connect with Pat MillerFollow Pat Miller for more entrepreneurial insights, business strategies, and inspiring conversations with successful founders and business leaders. Website: https://patmiller.net/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thepatmiller11 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thepatmiller11/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepatmiller11/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePatMiller11/ Subscribe to From Underdog to Entrepreneur: Building Dreams with Pat Miller for weekly conversations with entrepreneurs who share the real stories, lessons, failures, and successes behind building thriving businesses. If you're passionate about entrepreneurship, leadership, business growth, entertainment, and personal development, this podcast is designed to help you build your dream. New episodes are released regularly. | |||