Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The Hunt for Success
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crafting a Life of Purpose with Hugh Hornsby | 30 Jul 2026 | 01:35:13 | |
In this episode of the Hunt for Success podcast, Dr. Sam McGough sits down with Hugh Hornsby, trades industry leader, business builder, speaker, and author of the upcoming book Blue Collar Smart. The conversation explores resilience, leadership, business growth, and personal responsibility, shaped by Hugh’s journey through childhood epilepsy, major business setbacks, a stage four cancer diagnosis, and decades of helping companies and individuals unlock their potential. Throughout the discussion, Hugh breaks down how focusing on people, sales systems, mentorship, and personal accountability helped him build and transform businesses. He also shares lessons learned from hunting, family traditions, networking, and surrounding yourself with the right people, while emphasizing the importance of becoming valuable to others and creating opportunities through service and relationships. Key Takeaways [Adversity Builds Strength]: Personal challenges can become the foundation for resilience, perspective, and long-term success. [People Drive Performance]: Great businesses are built by identifying potential, developing talent, and creating opportunities for others to succeed. [Focus Creates Growth]: Applying the 80/20 principle and narrowing your attention to high-impact activities accelerates results. [Relationships Open Doors]: Becoming important to the right people through value, service, and trust creates opportunities that money cannot buy. 00:00 – Podcast Intro and Guest Introduction 01:50 – Childhood Epilepsy and Early Challenges 04:34 – Entering the Trades Industry 05:31 – Learning from Failure and Taking Ownership 10:46 – Building a Fraternity Through Inclusion 16:51 – People-First Leadership Principles 18:22 – Mentorship from the Napoleon Hill Foundation 20:06 – Hunting, Fishing, and Family Traditions 30:22 – Turning Around Struggling Companies 32:02 – The Power of Niche Focus and Be, Do, Have 38:36 – Hunting Bonds and Parenting Lessons 40:19 – Comedy, Cancer, and Healing Through Vulnerability 47:02 – AI, Private Equity, and Industry Changes 52:27 – Why Everything Is Sales 56:38 – Networking and Finding the Right Rooms 01:12:00 – Exit Planning for Trades Businesses 01:17:20 – Sales Systems and Scaling Lessons 01:31:17 – Wealth, Freedom, and Gratitude Thanks for listening, and please share this episode with someone who's building more than a business, someone who's building a life worth living. It helps us grow the show and bring these honest conversations, practical insights, and life design strategies to more founders, operators, and builders pursuing both success and freedom. Have a great day. Dr. Sam McGough "Success should fund a life you actually want, not a self-created prison." CONNECT with Dr. Sam McGough & Explore Hunt for Success Discover conversations with founders, operators, and builders who have earned success and intentionally designed the freedom to enjoy it. Access real stories, practical lessons, and authentic perspectives on leadership, discipline, business growth, systems, and life by design. Join a community of entrepreneurs and leaders committed to building businesses that create opportunity without sacrificing the life they're working for. Join FREE at: HuntforSuccess.com Follow Hunt for Success: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok | YouTube About the Guest Hugh Hornsby is a trades industry leader, business strategist, speaker, and entrepreneur focused on helping companies grow through leadership, sales systems, and people development. They are the author of the upcoming book Blue Collar Smart, which focuses on practical business wisdom, personal responsibility, and creating success through discipline, relationships, and execution. Guest Resources Hugh Hornsby Website: www.thebluecollarsmart.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hugh-hornsby-51986b10/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hugh.hornsby | |||
| Gregory DePriest: Pastor to Amazon Logistics Leader | 23 Jul 2026 | 00:53:11 | |
In this episode of the Hunt for Success podcast, Dr. Sam McGough sits down with Gregory DePriest, entrepreneur, Amazon logistics operator, former pastor, and leadership strategist. The conversation explores personal reinvention, leadership, business growth, and the mindset required to continually evolve, shaped by Gregory’s journey from banking and finance to ministry leadership and eventually building a successful Amazon logistics company employing more than 200 people. Throughout the discussion, Gregory breaks down the importance of knowing when to pivot, creating structure and accountability within organizations, and building success through relationships, strategy, and personal growth. He also shares how hunting, fishing, and outdoor pursuits mirror business by rewarding preparation, patience, discipline, and the pursuit itself rather than just the outcome. Key Takeaways [Reinvention Creates Opportunity]: Recognizing when it is time for a new chapter allows leaders to continue growing and expanding their impact. [Strategy Gives Faith Direction]: Vision alone is not enough, successful outcomes require systems, planning, and execution. [Culture Drives Performance]: Strong teams thrive when expectations, accountability, and rewards are clearly aligned. [Choose Your Circle Carefully]: Growth accelerates when surrounded by people who provide trust, encouragement, and honest feedback. 00:00 – The Impossible to Fail Mindset 01:20 – Gregory’s Early Life and Career Journey 02:19 – From Banking to Pastoral Leadership 03:39 – Fundraising Success and Amazon Logistics Launch 05:54 – Why Reinvention Matters 10:26 – Moving to Austin and Starting Over 14:59 – Dreaming Bigger Than Fear 18:09 – Ignoring Opinions and Building Confidence 21:29 – Performance-Based Leadership 27:01 – Business Lessons Learned Through Hunting 30:28 – Creating Exceptional Experiences 33:44 – Customer Service Lessons from Luxury Brands 37:32 – Building the Right Tribe 40:39 – Trust, Relationships, and Safe Circles 45:50 – Favorite Hunts and Fishing Adventures 49:53 – Bucket List Experiences and Future Plans Thanks for listening, and please share this episode with someone who's building more than a business, someone who's building a life worth living. It helps us grow the show and bring these honest conversations, practical insights, and life design strategies to more founders, operators, and builders pursuing both success and freedom. Have a great day. Dr. Sam McGough "Success should fund a life you actually want, not a self-created prison." CONNECT with Dr. Sam McGough & Explore Hunt for Success Discover conversations with founders, operators, and builders who have earned success and intentionally designed the freedom to enjoy it. Access real stories, practical lessons, and authentic perspectives on leadership, discipline, business growth, systems, and life by design. Join a community of entrepreneurs and leaders committed to building businesses that create opportunity without sacrificing the life they're working for. Join FREE at: HuntforSuccess.com Follow Hunt for Success: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok | YouTube About the Guest Gregory DePriest is an entrepreneur, Amazon logistics operator, leadership mentor, and former pastor with decades of experience leading organizations and teams. They are recognized for successfully transitioning across multiple industries, including banking, ministry, fundraising, and logistics, while building high-performing teams and scalable operations.
Their background includes financial services, church leadership, nonprofit fundraising, and last-mile logistics management. They are passionate about helping people embrace growth, develop strong leadership skills, and pursue opportunities without being limited by fear or the opinions of others. Guest Resources Gregory DePriest Website: https://www.sglva.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregory-depriest-b391aa58 | |||
| W2 Employee to 100-Pool Construction Empire with Ryan Seekatz | 07 May 2026 | 00:36:51 | |
Dr. Sam McGough interviews Ryan Seekatz, an Alaska native and entrepreneur who transitioned from years of W2 work on Alaska’s North Slope oil fields to running businesses, then pursuing business acquisitions that led him to buy a Florida pool construction company. Ryan describes the toll of long hitches away from family, the moment he decided to quit, and how he spent years searching for the right acquisition before launching a successful renovation branch while building about 100 pools per year in affluent East Coast Florida communities. The conversation also covers Ryan’s early hunting and fishing memories in Fairbanks, the challenges of big-game processing in Alaska, Sam’s perspective on sustained “grinding,” purpose, and creating family experiences, plus a discussion of private aviation and Ryan’s emphasis that mentorship has been a key driver of his progress. 01:08 Ryan Background 01:49 Pool Business Growth 02:31 Leaving W2 Life 05:51 Oil Rig Breaking Point 07:24 Alaska Hunting Roots 08:55 Florida Transition Grind 10:54 Work Life Discipline 14:45 Defining Success Freedom 17:41 Family Memories Hunting 18:35 Caribou Moose Plans 19:07 New Zealand Hunt Costs 19:36 Why New Zealand Is Easy 20:46 Red Stag Surprise 21:32 Lazy Hunter Confession 22:50 Alaska Moose Reality 24:11 Caribou Processing Tips 26:44 Planning Alaska Together 27:32 Private Planes For Hunts 28:32 Timeshares And Tax Plays 32:46 Mentorship And Entrepreneurship About the Guest: Ryan Seekatz is an Alaska native, entrepreneur, and business owner who transitioned from years of W2 work on Alaska’s North Slope oil fields into entrepreneurship through business acquisitions. After leaving the demanding oilfield lifestyle, Ryan spent years searching for the right opportunity before acquiring a Florida-based pool construction company, where he now oversees a thriving business building and renovating pools across affluent East Coast communities. In this episode, he shares his journey from corporate grind to freedom, along with insights on mentorship, family, hunting roots in Alaska, and building a purpose-driven life. Guest Resources: Website: https://www.sfcpools.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-seekatz-0a3791292/ | |||
| The Land & Farm Niche: How Hunting Built an 800-Deal Real Estate with Lynn Jared | 30 Apr 2026 | 00:56:13 | |
On the Hunt for Success podcast, host Sam interviews Cookeville, Tennessee, real estate broker and avid hunter Lynn Jared, who runs a brokerage founded in 2022 that grew from about 500 transactions in its first year to over 800 in 2025 and is currently pacing 57% ahead year over year, despite broader market concerns. Lynn attributes the growth to a strong culture, daily morning huddles, hands-on training, tiered team leaders, and feedback-driven problem-solving to reduce fall-throughs from contract to close. He discusses common early-agent mistakes, especially underestimating the time and cash needed to survive the first few years, and explains how a profitable lead-gen team helps new agents. Lynn connects business and hunting through relationships, shares land-and-farm expertise tied to hunting, recounts his two-year turkey grand slam highlight in South Dakota near Mount Rushmore, and closes with advice to “get out there,” follow the golden rule, and take new hunters afield. 00:42 Cookeville Real Estate Growth 01:57 Growing Up Hunting 03:00 Culture and Training Strategy 04:51 Morning Huddles and Deal Follow Through 07:09 New Agent Mistakes and Money Reality 09:36 Lead Gen Team Turnaround 11:44 Mentors and Car Business Lessons 14:14 Why Land and Farm Real Estate 16:12 Turkey Grand Slam Best Hunt 19:32 World Slam and Mexico Safety Talk 21:11 Marriage Tradeoffs and Hobby Balance 23:38 Purpose After Retirement and Dad Story 25:49 Farm Clients Hunting Success Stories 27:30 Letting Friends Hunt Your Property 28:22 Gear Talk And Bows 28:42 Why Bowhunting Wins 29:37 Matthews Lift Setup 30:34 Bowhunting Turkeys Challenge 31:20 Turkey Hunting Lessons 32:20 First Gobbler Breakthrough 34:36 Surprise Bird Stories 36:50 Run And Gun Strategy 40:47 Hardest Eastern Birds 44:35 Wild Turkey On The Table 45:53 Business And Hunting Parallels 49:21 Finding Trusted Mentors About the Guest: Lynn Jared is a Cookeville, Tennessee, real estate broker and passionate hunter who founded a fast-growing brokerage in 2022. Known for his strong leadership, hands-on agent training, and expertise in land and farm real estate, Lynn shares how culture, mentorship, and discipline have driven his team’s success. In this episode, he also connects the lessons of business and hunting through relationships, resilience, and personal growth. Guest Resources: Website: https://www.letsgoreco.com/lynn-jared Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lynn.jared/ | |||
| Building a Vertically Integrated Multifamily Empire | 23 Apr 2026 | 00:47:36 | |
On the Hunt for Success, Sam sits down with Eric Nordstrom of Iron Ridge Capital to discuss building a vertically integrated multifamily real estate business, navigating the 2008 crash, and why his team paused acquisitions during market uncertainty from 2022 to 2025. Eric shares how strong property management and disciplined leadership helped them survive and scale, plus why today’s market offers fresh opportunities through lender foreclosures and distressed deals. Beyond business, they explore how hunting and fishing provide stress relief, family bonding, and lessons in discipline that apply directly to long-term success. 01:10 Eric’s Origin Story 02:30 First Deals and 2008 Crash 04:04 Pivot From Gyms to Real Estate 04:38 Raising Capital and Discipline 07:23 Surviving the Buying Hiatus 08:31 Leaving Washington for Texas 11:10 Building the Leadership Team 13:42 Why Deals Are Back 17:36 Buying From Lenders 21:52 Opportunity Window Ahead 23:57 Hunting as Stress Relief 25:33 How He Started Hunting 26:43 Camp Ponds and Early Starts 27:19 Learning to Hunt Together 28:34 First Buck Father Pride 29:12 Business Lessons from Hunting 31:00 Biggest Buck and Persistence 32:40 Screw Up Bell Culture 35:23 AI Proof Family Future 38:54 Tennessee Ranch Game Plan 41:46 Wedding Venue Hunt Combo 44:08 Discipline and Deal Resilience About the Guest Erik Nordstrom is the co-founder of Iron Ridge Capital, a Texas-based real estate investment firm specializing in multifamily acquisitions, property management, and value-add investing. With nearly 20 years of experience navigating multiple market cycles, Erik is known for his disciplined investment approach and strong track record of delivering consistent returns. Outside of business, he is passionate about hunting, fishing, and sharing the outdoors with his family. Guest Resources: Website: https://www.ironridge-capital.com/ Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ironridge-capital-llc/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erik-nordstrom-61303789/ | |||
| How to Scale from a Private Practice to a Real Estate Empire with Dr. Jonathan Saigh | 16 Apr 2026 | 00:40:10 | |
In this episode of the Hunt for Success podcast, Sam McGough is joined by his business partner and friend, Dr. Jonathan Saigh. Jonathan shares his journey from the football fields of Michigan to the lean early years of chiropractic school, where a $1,500 bank account was the only thing standing between him and failure. The conversation dives deep into the "Technician vs. Entrepreneur" mindset, exploring why most professionals struggle to scale because they can't let go of their "baby". Jonathan outlines his exact strategy for developing a high-level executive team through profit-sharing and trust, and how that freedom allowed him to pivot into becoming a full-time real estate professional. From vetting "Instagram gurus" to the "pay to play" philosophy of high-level masterminds, this episode is a blueprint for any professional looking to reclaim their time and build a legacy. Key Takeaways: [The Technician Trap]: Why the very skills that start your business can become the ceiling that stops its growth. [The 80% Management Rule]: Learning to accept that a great team will do things differently than you—and why that's a requirement for scaling. [Tax-Advantaged Prosperity]: The transition from chiropractor to "Real Estate Professional" and why it is one of the only tried-and-true wealth strategies in the tax code. [Vetting Your Circle]: Why specialized education and high-level mentors are worth the investment as your "time bank" begins to shrink. 02:15 – The Business Seed: Lessons from a Dentist Uncle 04:30 – The Basement Years: 80-Hour Weeks and Financial Hardship 06:45 – Developing Managers: The Mental Shift of Letting Go 09:30 – Integrated Medicine: Melding Chiropractic and Western Care 12:15 – Real Estate Strategy: Moving from Technician to Investor 14:50 – Vetting Mentors: Identifying "Gurus" vs. Actual Producers 16:00 – Final Thoughts: Defining Success Beyond the Bank Account About the Guest: Dr. Jonathan Saigh is a multifaceted entrepreneur, chiropractor, and high-level real estate professional. A former University of Michigan football player who played under the legendary Lloyd Carr, Jonathan transitioned from being a "technician" in his own clinic to an owner who manages managers. He built a highly successful integrated medical group in southeast Wisconsin that bridges the gap between conservative chiropractic care and traditional Western medicine. Today, he is a qualified real estate professional focusing on residential and commercial property strategies that offer massive tax advantages and community impact. Guest Resource: Professional Website: https://advancedcarespecialists.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-saigh-67644728/ | |||
| Redneck Economics: Mining for Success and the Power of Radical Tenacity with Aaron Chapman | 06 Apr 2026 | 00:52:31 | |
In this episode of the Hunt for Success podcast, Sam McGough sits down with Aaron Chapman, a veteran of the finance industry and a top 1% mortgage originator. Aaron’s journey is anything but traditional; he spent his early years branding cattle, working Wyoming oil fields, and breaking rock in the underground mines of New Mexico. The conversation dives deep into Aaron’s "Redneck Economics" philosophy—a mindset built on personal responsibility, authenticity, and the resilience to survive life’s "ass-whoopins." Aaron recounts the harrowing moments of near-poverty that led to a life-changing meeting at a Red Lobster, and why he ultimately rejected corporate conformity to find success by staying true to his blue-collar roots. This episode is a masterclass in adapting to changing terrain and building a legacy that outlasts the hustle. Key Takeaways [The Beatin' Path]: Why the hardest experiences—from mining to financial collapse—are the most effective training grounds for high-level leadership. [Authenticity as a Filter]: Why Aaron abandoned "dressing for success" to let his outward appearance match his blue-collar interior, and how that consistency builds ultimate trust. [Unanswered Prayers]: Reframing life’s low points (like being rejected for a trucking job) as the essential pivots that lead to true opportunity. [Generational Legacy]: The importance of building a "Family Trust" structure to instill discipline and accountability in the next generation. 03:00 – Blue-Collar Roots: Cattle Ranching, Oil Fields, and Heavy Equipment 07:30 – Life Underground: The Reality of Mining in New Mexico 09:30 – The Turning Point: Diaper Coupons and Floor Mat Change 12:30 – The Red Lobster Meeting: Entering the Mortgage Industry 20:00 – Defining Redneck Economics: Responsibility and Grit 35:00 – Authenticity vs. Conformity in the Finance World About the Guest: Aaron Chapman is a veteran of the finance industry and a top 1% mortgage originator in the United States, currently ranked #14 out of over 300,000 originators nationwide. Before conquering the world of investment lending as an EVP at SecurityNational Mortgage Company, Aaron spent years in the "trenches" of heavy industry—working Wyoming oil fields, branding cattle, and laboring in the underground mines of New Mexico. He is the author of Redneckonomics, a philosophy that champions personal responsibility, raw authenticity, and the "Producer" mindset over a culture of victimhood. Guest Resources: Aaron Chapman Website: AaronChapman.com Official Book Link: QuitJerkingOff.com (Order Redneckonomics) | |||
| Hospitality, Real Estate, and Wilderness with Jeramie Worley | 23 Jul 2026 | 00:59:50 | |
In this episode of the Hunt for Success podcast, Dr. Sam McGough sits down with Jeramie Worley, a real estate investor, hospitality entrepreneur, and co-owner of Lake Longbow. The conversation explores executive recovery, outdoor hospitality, and legacy property development, shaped by Jeramie's experience in short-term rentals, real estate investing, and creating experiences that help leaders disconnect from stress and reconnect with what matters most. Throughout the discussion, Jeramie breaks down the vision behind Lake Longbow, an 80-acre Missouri retreat built around hunting, fishing, land stewardship, and meaningful relationships. He shares lessons from building and operating the property, overcoming development setbacks, creating premium guest experiences, and helping burned-out executives find clarity through time outdoors. Key Takeaways [Nature Creates Clarity]: Stepping away from daily pressures allows leaders to reconnect with purpose, relationships, and long-term vision. [Launch Before Perfect]: Progress comes from taking action quickly, learning from real-world feedback, and improving as you go. [Experiences Build Relationships]: Shared outdoor adventures create trust, vulnerability, and deeper personal connections. [Legacy Requires Stewardship]: Building a meaningful property involves long-term commitment, patience, and care for the land. 00:00 – Podcast Intro and Guest Introduction 01:32 – Jeramie’s Airbnb Investing Journey 03:05 – Why Executives Need Time Outdoors 04:52 – Purchasing and Developing Lake Longbow 11:46 – Touring the Property and Amenities 14:51 – The Luxury Hunting Retreat Experience 18:00 – Campfire Conversations and Vulnerability 24:28 – Ethical Hunting and Respect for Wildlife 28:00 – Business Lessons from Hospitality 33:08 – Outdoor Retreat Concepts and Future Plans 37:18 – Shared Ownership and Expansion Vision 43:47 – The Mission Behind Lake Longbow 51:30 – Why Taking Action Matters 55:07 – The Three Essentials for Success Thanks for listening, and please share this episode with someone who's building more than a business, someone who's building a life worth living. It helps us grow the show and bring these honest conversations, practical insights, and life design strategies to more founders, operators, and builders pursuing both success and freedom. Have a great day. Dr. Sam McGough "Success should fund a life you actually want, not a self-created prison." CONNECT with Dr. Sam McGough & Explore Hunt for Success Discover conversations with founders, operators, and builders who have earned success and intentionally designed the freedom to enjoy it. Access real stories, practical lessons, and authentic perspectives on leadership, discipline, business growth, systems, and life by design. Join a community of entrepreneurs and leaders committed to building businesses that create opportunity without sacrificing the life they're working for. Join FREE at: HuntforSuccess.com Follow Hunt for Success: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok | YouTube About the Guest Jeramie Worley is a real estate investor, hospitality operator, and co-owner of Lake Longbow, a private outdoor retreat focused on executive renewal and outdoor experiences. They are recognized for their early adoption of short-term rental investing and for helping guests create meaningful experiences through hospitality and land stewardship. Their background includes real estate investing, vacation rental operations, outdoor recreation, and retreat development. They are the author of an early Airbnb investing book and continue to focus on helping entrepreneurs and leaders create freedom through strategic real estate and hospitality ventures. Guest Resources Jeramie Worley Website: https://lakelongbow.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeramie-worley/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lakelongbow/ | |||
| Mastering Business and Real Estate with Chris Rood | 09 Jul 2026 | 00:26:14 | |
In this episode of the Hunt for Success, Dr. Sam McGough sits down with Chris Rood, a real estate investor, operator, and former blue-collar business owner. The conversation explores a long-form wealth building philosophy shaped by Chris Rood’s journey from mobile oil change operations to scaling multiple automotive shops, then transitioning into real estate investing, development, and portfolio expansion across mobile home parks, short-term rentals, and land development. Throughout the discussion, Chris breaks down his framework of fast, medium, and slow money, including how disciplined reinvestment, operational experience, and long-term thinking create durable wealth while avoiding over-leverage and short-term traps in real estate education. Thanks for listening, and please share this episode with someone who's building more than a business, someone who's building a life worth living. It helps us grow the show and bring these honest conversations, practical insights, and life design strategies to more founders, operators, and builders pursuing both success and freedom. Have a great day. Dr. Sam McGough "Success should fund a life you actually want, not a self-created prison." CONNECT with Dr. Sam McGough & Explore Hunt for Success Discover conversations with founders, operators, and builders who have earned success and intentionally designed the freedom to enjoy it. Access real stories, practical lessons, and authentic perspectives on leadership, discipline, business growth, systems, and life by design. Join a community of entrepreneurs and leaders committed to building businesses that create opportunity without sacrificing the life they're working for. Join FREE at: HuntforSuccess.com Follow Hunt for Success: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok | YouTube About the Guest Chris Rood is a real estate investor, entrepreneur, and former multi-location automotive business owner. He is recognized for building and scaling multiple operational businesses before transitioning into real estate investing and development. His background includes hands-on experience in service-based trades, business acquisition, and large-scale property investment strategies including mobile home parks and land development. Guest Resources Chris Rood Website: https://chrisrood.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-rood-72a76276/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realestaterood/ | |||
| Building Wealth and Freedom with Chris Udall | 02 Jul 2026 | 00:56:40 | |
In this episode of the Hunt for Success podcast, Dr. Sam McGough sits down with Chris Udall, a venture capitalist and ecosystem builder working at the intersection of startups, capital formation, and regional innovation. The conversation explores venture capital, founder development, and innovation ecosystem building, shaped by Chris’ experience creating educational pathways for refugees in Jordan, managing early-stage investment funds in Alabama, and supporting technology transfer initiatives tied to Huntsville’s engineering base. Throughout the discussion, Chris breaks down how venture capital evaluates early-stage, high-risk, scalable startups, including how founder traits like grit, coachability, and adaptability often determine long-term outcomes more than initial ideas. He also connects these principles to hunting, drawing parallels between decision-making under pressure, preparation, resource allocation, and learning through failure. Key Takeaways [Grit Over Ideas]: Startup success is driven more by founder resilience and adaptability than the originality of the initial concept. [Capital as Ecosystem Fuel]: Strategic funds can keep talent and intellectual property local while attracting outside investment. [Pressure Decision-Making]: Both hunting and entrepreneurship require clear thinking under uncertainty and fatigue. [Failure as Feedback]: Burnout, setbacks, and missed opportunities become critical inputs for better future decisions. 00:00 – Podcast Intro and Guest Introduction 00:52 – Understanding Venture Capital in Practice 02:18 – Chris’ Unconventional Career Path 04:52 – Launching Alabama’s Capital Access Fund 08:27 – First Experiences in Hunting 14:05 – Parallels Between Hunting and Entrepreneurship 18:42 – Why Startups Fail Early 23:43 – Lessons from an Elk Hunt 32:03 – What VCs Look for in Founders 36:28 – Risk, Burnout, and Decision Pressure 42:57 – Community, Networking, and Ecosystem Growth 50:16 – International Hunting and Expansion Goals Thanks for listening, and please share this episode with someone who's building more than a business, someone who's building a life worth living. It helps us grow the show and bring these honest conversations, practical insights, and life design strategies to more founders, operators, and builders pursuing both success and freedom. Have a great day. Dr. Sam McGough "Success should fund a life you actually want, not a self-created prison." CONNECT with Dr. Sam McGough & Explore Hunt for Success Discover conversations with founders, operators, and builders who have earned success and intentionally designed the freedom to enjoy it. Access real stories, practical lessons, and authentic perspectives on leadership, discipline, business growth, systems, and life by design. Join a community of entrepreneurs and leaders committed to building businesses that create opportunity without sacrificing the life they're working for. Join FREE at: HuntforSuccess.com Follow Hunt for Success: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok | YouTube About the Guest Chris is a venture capitalist and innovation ecosystem leader focused on early-stage startup growth and regional capital development. They are recognized for building and managing investment initiatives that support high-potential founders and strengthen local innovation pipelines in Alabama. Their background includes experience in education initiatives for refugees, venture funding, and technology transfer programs connected to Huntsville’s engineering ecosystem. They are focused on expanding access to capital and strengthening founder success through structured investment and support systems. Guest Resources Chris Udall | |||
| Designing a Life of Adventure with Eric Killen | 25 Jun 2026 | 00:37:52 | |
In this episode of the Hunt for Success podcast, Dr. Sam McGough welcomes his friend Eric Killen, owner of Killen Outdoor Adventures in Killen, Alabama, to discuss how Eric built an 11-year hunting and fishing travel business while continuing a 26-year corporate sales career. Eric explains his client-first model, where outfitters pay his fee, clients receive vetted options across roughly 48 global locations, and every trip is personally verified by him or his team before anyone is sent. He also breaks down the end-to-end support system that covers airport pickup, outfitter coordination, paperwork, taxidermy, trophy importation, and global delivery through his logistics company, while outsourcing air travel. Throughout the conversation, Eric shares how early bad booking experiences shaped his standards, how he scaled operations by hiring help, and how he designs trips that include post-hunt travel experiences to make them spouse-friendly and more accessible. This episode highlights how disciplined systems, trust-based service, and lifestyle design come together to build both a business and a life built around freedom, and why traits like patience, persistence, and a driven mindset show up in both successful entrepreneurs and hunters. Key Takeaways [Vetting creates trust at scale]: Every location is personally verified before clients are sent, ensuring consistent and reliable experiences. [Service design beats marketing]: Word of mouth and client experience drive growth more than promotion or advertising. [Discipline shows up in both business and hunting]: Patience, persistence, and emotional control directly influence success in the field and in entrepreneurship. [Lifestyle is built, not stumbled into]: Freedom comes from intentional choices around work, time, and long-term priorities. 00:00 – Designing Freedom Life 00:22 – Podcast Welcome Setup 01:17 – Meet Eric Killen 02:35 – From Sales to Outfitting 04:10 – Business Model Client First 08:35 – Luxury Trips Africa Australia 11:16 – Trust Stories Proof 12:52 – Traits of High Performers 16:41 – Scaling Logistics Systems 17:51 – Guns Paperwork Trophies 19:35 – Partners Delivery Service 20:21 – Trophy Wall Negotiations 21:35 – Getting Mary Into Hunting 23:33 – Designing a Travel Life 25:35 – Europe and Spain Hunting 27:02 – Scouting and Client Fit 29:21 – Success Keys No Debt 32:32 – Hunting and Business Traits 34:38 – Field Essentials and Gear 37:09 – Closing and Sign Off About the Guest Eric Killen is a hunting outfitter and entrepreneur who built Killen Outdoor Adventures into a global service business focused on hunting, travel, and logistics. He is recognized for creating a highly vetted, service-first model that prioritizes client experience, safety, and reliability across international destinations. His background includes long-term experience in corporate sales and business development, alongside building a multi-location outdoor adventure company serving clients worldwide. He is the founder of Killen Outdoor Adventures, focused on delivering fully managed hunting and travel experiences from booking through trophy delivery. Guest Resources Eric Killen Website: https://www.killenoutdoor.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/killen_outdoor_adventures/ | |||
| How to Master the Intrapreneur Mindset with Theron Leany | 18 Jun 2026 | 00:46:04 | |
In this episode of The Hunt for Success, host Sam McGough sits down with Theron Leany, an owner and operator at Action Plumbing, Heating, Air and Electric. Operating across four states, Theron shares his journey from hands-on appliance repair to executing multi-state corporate acquisitions and high-level consulting. The conversation focuses on the "intrapreneur" mindset, transforming company culture by hiring for character over industry experience, and how structural clarity in business emerges naturally when you anchor yourself to your original "Why." Theron also discusses how bow hunting serves as a high-stress decompression tool and a powerful training ground for teaching youth resilience, problem-solving, and patience. Key Takeaways
Episode Timeline
About the Guest Theron Leany is a seasoned intrapreneur, partner, and executive leader at Action Plumbing, Heating, Air and Electric, a dominant home services provider operating across four states. Alongside his business partner Ben Jordan, Theron runs The Action Group, a tactical consulting firm designed to help home service owners build tight operational structures and adapt their leadership systems for major revenue milestones.
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| How to Effectively Mitigate Business Risk with Mark Baker | 11 Jun 2026 | 00:25:57 | |
In this episode of The Hunt for Success, host Sam McGough connects with Mark Baker, President and Owner of ACRE Development Corporation. Recording from Prince Edward Island (PEI), Canada, Mark shares his transition from a second-generation operator in the high-volume retail gasoline and convenience sector to a successful commercial real estate land developer. The conversation focuses on the strategic shift from daily business operations to the long-term, high-stakes process of ground-up commercial development, drawing parallels between the deep preparation required for real estate and the patience of the outdoor lifestyle.
About the Guest Mark Baker is a Canadian entrepreneur and the President and Owner of ACRE Development Corporation based in Prince Edward Island. After a successful decade running and leasing a high-volume regional retail gasoline operation and coffee franchise, Mark transitioned his focus entirely to commercial land development, securing premium locations for national and international corporate brands. | |||
| Marketing for Chiropractors: Build It, Scale It, Sell It with Dr. Kendall Price | 21 May 2026 | 00:48:33 | |
Dr. Kendall Price went from chiropractic school to 200 patient visits a week in just 90 days, not by accident, but by applying "boots-on-the-ground" marketing systems before he even opened his doors. Now, as founder of Elevate Marketing, he helps chiropractors build consistent patient acquisition through repeatable, scalable systems. In this episode of Hunt for Success, Dr. Sam McGough sits down with Dr. Price to break down how understanding numbers like lifetime value and patient acquisition cost changes every business decision — how process and people create businesses that can actually be sold — and how a move to central Illinois, a bird dog, and a bow opened up a second life built around family, faith, and the outdoors. What You'll Learn: – How Dr. Price launched to 200 visits/week in 90 days using repeatable marketing – Why knowing your patient LTV changes how you spend, hire, and grow – How systems and people create a business you can eventually sell – What it looks like to walk away at the right time — and why he has no regrets – How hunting, faith, and family keep his mind sharp and his business focused 01:27 Learning Marketing In School 02:25 Scaling A Practice Fast 03:53 Systems, People, and LTV 06:30 Mentors, Numbers, and Delegation 10:20 Selling Practice & Buying Out Partner 13:30 Move To Illinois & Outdoors Life 14:23 How He Started Hunting 15:21 Bird Dog and Bowhunting 17:22 Canada Fishing Trips 21:06 Kids, Family, and Outdoors Lessons 24:24 Farm Work as Therapy 25:43 Faithful Tree Stand Routine 27:06 Food Plots & Big Bucks 28:30 Trophy Standards Debate 32:34 Business Numbers Non-Negotiables 37:06 Pricing & Value Communication 38:04 Bow Setup & Gear Talk 39:00 First Big Splurge — The Boat 41:48 Land Ownership & Family Hunts 42:54 Brotherhood, Mastermind & Tribe 47:26 Systems Create Freedom About the Guest Dr. Kendall Price is a former chiropractor and founder of Elevate Marketing, where he helps chiropractors scale their businesses through effective marketing systems and operational strategy. Known for his strong focus on processes, leadership, and long-term business growth, Kendall also shares his passion for hunting, fishing, and family life throughout the episode. Guest Resources: Elevate Marketing: https://goelevatemarketing.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drkendallprice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drkendallprice/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kendall-price-5681b189/ | |||
| The People-First System That Keeps Clients Coming Back with Will Bamber | 14 May 2026 | 00:44:58 | |
On the Hunt for Success podcast, the host interviews Will Bamber of WNUI Safaris in New Zealand, discussing the property’s multi-generation history (including earlier AU Trading roots and WNUI Safaris emerging in the early 1980s) and the family-run culture led by Will’s father Paul. Will shares his multifaceted life: professional racing (including Lamborghini Super Trofeo and other North American series), time living and racing in Asia, and software development focused on ERP/CRM automation for the safari business. They emphasize that people and relationships drive repeat bookings, and describe using technology and AI to streamline proposals, invoicing, accounting, and data insights while keeping a lean team. They also cover trade-show marketing, continuous lodge improvements (new cabin, upgrades, potential jacuzzi area), work-life balance for staff, and New Zealand possum control and possum wool. 00:53 Ranch Name History 02:07 Racing Career Path 02:56 Racing Meets Hunting 03:27 Work You Love 05:13 Guides and Giving Back 07:34 Why Clients Return 10:17 Culture and Systems 11:10 People First Growth 13:27 Red Carpet Service 14:49 Software for Outfitters 18:26 AI and Automation 21:49 Competition and Networking 24:12 Booth Hospitality Strategy 25:46 Trade Show Networking Mindset 26:55 Client Relationships Like Family 27:47 Races And Friend Trips 28:47 Guide Work Life Balance 30:44 Team Culture And Care 33:23 Lodge Upgrades And Amenities 34:30 Feedback Driven Improvements 35:48 Racing Confidence And Balance 38:40 Possums And Trade Show Curiosity 42:05 Overwhelmed At The Expo Will Bamber is part of the family leadership team behind Wanganui Safaris, a premier New Zealand hunting lodge with a multi-generational legacy led by the Bamber family. Beyond the safari business, Will brings a unique blend of expertise in professional motorsports, business systems, and software automation, helping modernize operations through ERP, CRM, AI, and workflow automation while maintaining a strong people-first culture. He is also an accomplished race car driver who has competed in Lamborghini Super Trofeo and other North American racing series. Guest Resource: Wanganui Safaris Website: https://www.wsafaris.com/ Will Bamber Website: https://www.willbamber.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willbamber/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/willbambermotorsport/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willbamber/ | |||