Breaking Barriers

Owner of Alexandar Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning - Ken Alexander

Ever had a customer interaction go completely sideways?  You're not alone! But what if those moments could actually become opportunities for deeper customer connection? This week on Breaking Barriers, we're joined by Ken Alexander of Alexander Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, who's here to share his secret to having loyal customers for 30 years – "Treat your customer like family!" Hit subscribe and get more real-life insights on growing your business.

A Teacher, Coach, and Owner of Cintron's Coastal Catering - Michael Cintron

Did you know that teachers rank among the top five careers that produce millionaires? It's true! And when we found out that the teacher who made a huge impact on our CEO's life was starting a business, we couldn't be more thrilled! Be inspired by Michael Cintron's journey of starting Cintron's Coastal Catering at the age of 52 in our next Breaking Barriers episode.  Subscribe for more insights and inspirations.

Owner of One Stop Hop Party Rentals - Jenny Alvarado James

Ever wonder how some businesses manage to thrive even in highly competitive industries? This event supplier company has cracked the code to growth. Jenny James, the brains behind One Stop Hop Party Rentals, spills the factors on how their business not just survived but thrived during the pandemic up until now.  Here are their secrets: 1. Building Strong Networks: They've built some killer relationships that keep their sales rolling in. 2. Goal Getter: They set goals, both short-term and lo...

Owner of Gyumolcs Insurance Agency - Joseph Gyumolcs

Why trust your finances and prized possessions with someone who isn't in your corner or doesn’t share the same values as you? Step into the world of PERSONALIZED BUSINESS with our Breaking Barriers guest, Joseph Gyumolcs, owner of Gyumolcs Insurance Agency. Their personal touch distinguishes them from competitors, ensuring that you work with people who share your values and priorities. Discover how they're revolutionizing the concept of personalized business to foster long-term growth. Sub...

Owner of Last Wave Brewing - Nick Jiorle

How can you ensure your brand stands out in a crowded market? In industries like craft beer, where products often look alike, differentiation is key. Our upcoming Breaking Barriers guest, Last Wave Brewing, nailed it. They started with a unique name and logo, then maintained consistency across all platforms, from online presence to in-store experience. Tune in for insights from Nick Jiorle, one of Last Wave Brewing's owners, as he shares how they turned their side business into a thriving ...

Doctor, Health Expert, and Entrepreneur - Dr. Joe Marchitelli

Entrepreneurs juggle multiple roles, both in business and at home. But amidst the hustle, where do your priorities lie—family or business? In our interviews, we've found that about 80% of entrepreneurs prioritize their family over their business. Take our next Breaking Barriers guest, Dr. Joe Marchitelli, for example. As a doctor, health expert, entrepreneur, and family man, he understands the importance of leaving a lasting legacy for his children. For him, embracing challenges and doing t...

Owner and Founder of Burger 25 - Steve Vetter

Contemplating entrepreneurship? Brace yourself for the unexpected ride. Entrepreneurship is like off-roading—no foolproof guides, just learning, adjusting, and seizing opportunities along the way. Be inspired by our Breaking Barriers guest, Steve Vetter - a father, husband, mortgage lender who seized the opportunity and started Burger 25 on the verge of losing his hearing. Now, it’s the largest burger franchise in New Jersey! Subscribe for more inspiration and insights.

CEO and Founder of Le Malt Hospitality Group - Saurabh Abrol

Life is never without challenges. In fact, we should welcome them because, when we do, our minds find a way to work through them, breaking down our limits and fostering growth. The more we embrace this mindset, the better we become at achieving success and fulfillment. Our Breaking Barriers guest, Saurabh Abrol, CEO and Founder of Le Malt Hospitality Group, exemplifies this practice, which has led to the exponential growth of his business.  Subscribe for more insights and inspiration.

Founder of Prepared Leader Consulting, Jeff Massone, with guest TV producer, Kim Bukoweic-Kravitz

Do you ever wonder why success seems elusive? It might be because you're not tapping into your personal geniuses. There are six working geniuses—wonder, invention, discernment, galvanizing, enablement, and tenacity. Two are your own, two are competencies, and two are frustrations. Discovering your geniuses can lead you to a career that harnesses them, bringing you energy, joy, and fulfillment. Join Jeff Massone, founder of Prepared Leader Consulting, and TV producer Kim Bukoweic-Kravitz in...

Business coach who will get you UNSTUCK and grow your business - Jon Dwoskin.

Select your inner circle wisely, and pay close attention to the advice you heed. Ultimately, the decisions you make for yourself and your business are yours alone. Join us for an eye-opening session with our upcoming Breaking Barriers guest, Jon Dwoskin. As a seasoned business coach helping businesses get unstuck, Jon emphasizes the pivotal role of intuitive advice tailored to your unique business journey.  Don't miss out on this valuable perspective! Subscribe now.

Founding Real Estate Broker of Compass Staten Island - Joe Tirone

Do you want to have money follow you?  This isn't a scam and it’s not all just sales! It’s about doing what is right for your customer. Tune in as our next Breaking Barriers guest, Joe Tirone, the founding real estate broke of Compass Staten Island, shares how true this can be, no matter which industry you work in.  Subscribe for more insights and inspiration.

9th Stratum Your Guide to High Performance Authors - Aaron Salko and Kelly Johnson

Ready to level up your performance and watch your life flourish?  It’s definitely a YES, right? The awesome news is, we can all be high performers!  Join our Breaking Barriers guests, Aaron Salko and Kelly Johnson, authors of '9th Stratum: Your Guide to High Performance,' as they spill the secrets to living your best life. Subscribe for more insights and inspiration.

Pioneering Doctor in the Field of Regenerative Medicine - Dr. Scott Greenberg of Greenberg Regenerative Medicine

Breaking through taboos, one patient at a time!  Driven by a passion for regenerative medicine, our pioneering doctor - Dr. Scott Greenberg of Greenberg Regenerative Medicine, fearlessly challenges stigma and naysayers.  His unwavering commitment stems from a deep belief in doing what's best for his patients. The undeniable results and countless testimonials paint a vivid picture of lives transformed. Some even term their recovery as nothing short of a miracle. When the evidence speaks thi...

International Bridal Makeup Artist and Educator - Jamie Saunders of Makeupbyjaysaunz

Has the traditional education system shaped you into someone you're not or worse, held you back from reaching your full potential just because you see the world a bit differently? The bridal industry is lucky that Jamie Saunders, an international bridal makeup artist and educator, fought through those challenges. It wasn't a walk in the park, but Jamie's key lesson for success in business and life is to be comfortable being uncomfortable and just put yourself out there. Be inspired by Jami...

The Sherlock Holmes of Consumer and Market Behavior - Ari Zelmanow

How are you using your data to drive your business forward? Ari Zelmanow, a former police detective turned market detective, unveiled invaluable insights in our Breaking Barrier podcast.  Here's a sneak peek into maximizing data for growth: 1. Break free from departmental constraints; data such as customer satisfaction influences not only service but also production and marketing. 2. Embrace negative data—it's a goldmine for growth opportunities. 3. Elevate your data analytics game by g...

Counselor, Educator, Researcher, and Leader - Dr. Scott Lipp of Atlantic for EmpowermentCounseling

Here’s the secret for a brighter life 👇 FEAR LESS. It's not about living without fear, but acknowledging, embracing, and working through it.  Join Dr. Scott Lipp, a licensed mental health counselor, as he shares how to approach life with resilience and achieve better mental well-being, in our Breaking Barriers Podcast. Subscribe for more inspiration and insights.

New York Times Best Selling Author and Sought After Digital Marketing Consultant - George Bryant

If you’re an entrepreneur juggling parenthood, George Bryant shares some powerful perspectives on how to win in business and life in this episode of Breaking Barriers.  Some points that left a mark with us: ✔️ His hero is a picture of a man he wants to become ✔️ There’s a direct correlation on the amount of success one has on the amount of time he spends alone ✔️ Don’t be a slave of your business - build it around YOU and what you love.

A sought-after makeup artist and beauty educator who created The Art of Enhancement & the Elite MUA Blueprint - Lauren D’Amelio Ventre,

Ever been told you won't amount to anything? 🤔 Words like these can sting, especially when directed at the young and believed by the vulnerable. But our Breaking Barrier guest, Lauren D’Amelio Ventre, with a resilient spirit, defied the odds, overcoming dyslexia and ADHD. She discovered her strengths, worked tirelessly, and carved her path to success. Get inspired by her journey and learn how to conquer challenges, no matter your circumstances. 

Owner of Chazmatazz Formalwear - Stephen Szczypinski

Back for round two on Breaking Barriers Podcast! Join us as we dive into an engaging conversation with Stephen Szczypinski of Chazmatazz Formalwear in Toms River. They're the go-to for New York men’s fashion for over 32 years!  Tune in for insights, stories, and a touch of style! 

Founder of The Shoefairy, Naked Heels & My Power Bracelets - Alexa Stimpfel

Back again at Breaking Barriers, now as a true #Mompreneur, we're joined by the incredible Alexa Stimpfel.  Alexa recently welcomed her first son into the World, and hasn’t slowed down a bit . As the founder of 3 businesses - she’s a true mompreneur who's mastered the art of balancing motherhood with her unwavering passion.  Listen in as she shares her personal journey and the transformation of becoming a better version of herself, navigating the roles of both a dedicated mom and an ambitio...

Director of Fitness @ LAF - Tina Petersen

In this episode of 'Breaking Barriers,' our guest, Tina Petersen from Landmark Athletics and Fitness, delves into the common reasons many individuals fall short of their goals. She emphasizes the critical role of having a personal 'why' behind those aspirations. Tune in to the complete podcast to uncover inspiration on achieving your dreams and discover strategies for staying the course, even when the odds seem stacked against you.

Founder of Women of the Metaverse (WOTM) - Amanda Archer

Welcome to the "new" internet.  Web3 creators are  leveling up the internet and Amanda Archer is at the forefront of it. As the founder of Women of the Metaverse (WOTM), and an Australian-Based PR and marketing specialist, Amanda holds an impressive background within the entertainment industry. In this episode, she explains how she got her start, and how she aims to inspire and celebrate the innovations of future entrepreneurs.  Learn more about Women of the Metaverse: https://womeninmetave...

Professional EOS Implementer® - Ryan Charterina

Many believe their dreams of entrepreneurship are far-fetched. Ryan Charterina helps restore their motivation by helping them implement the tools and disciplines they need to streamline and scale business.  EOS is a proven business operating system that aims to help businesses clarify, simplify and execute to achieve its vision. Learn more about the impact Ryan makes on businesses at: eosworldwide.com/ryan-charterina

Co-Owner at Lucco Cucina + Bar - Jon Jorge

Get ready to take a delicious journey through the ever-changing landscape of the restaurant industry with Jon Jorge, Co-Owner of Lucco Cucina + Bar! Discover how Lucco adapted, thrived, and continues to deliver exceptional customer service through challenging times. Join Jon Jorge as he shares his mouth-watering vision for the future of Lucco and the broader restaurant industry. Learn about potential expansion plans and his insights into the fast-casual space, keeping up with evolving custom...

Social Entrepreneur & Forbes-Listed Innovator - Paula Schwarz

 Join us on this inspiring journey with Paula Schwarz as we embark on a captivating podcast as we delve into the life of an extraordinary catalyst for change. From co-founding Startupboat.org to her work in empowering refugees and fostering sustainable solutions, Paula's story is a testament to the transformative power of entrepreneurship and collective action.  Learn more about the projects Paula Schwarz is leading at: https://www.paulaschwarz.co/. 

Founder of Restorasis - Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith

Join us on Breaking Barriers as we welcome special guest Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith, a renowned physician, author, and speaker who specializes in rest and the connection between wellness and spirituality. With over 20 years of medical experience, Dr. Dalton-Smith has become a leading expert in helping individuals understand the importance of rest and combatting burnout. Her research and insights have been featured in major publications, and she has been invited to speak at conferences and even...

Founders of Driven Women - Christen Sachs and Morgan Montano

Empowered women empower women, and these two have made it their mission to do just that! Founders of Driven Women, Christen Sachs and Morgan Montano have cultivated a community that encourages women to reach their highest potential! Christen Sachs is a Global Real Estate Broker and Multi-Award Winning Entrepreneur. And, Morgan Montano is a highly respected Technology Attorney and Serial Entrepreneur. Together, they've built a strong community for connection and support... with something BIG...

Award Winning Real Estate Influencer & Entrepreneur - Christen Sachs

As the leader of the Jersey Shore Nest Seekers location, Christen Sachs has disrupted the real estate market with her innovative and trendy approach to marketing properties. She builds success through chasing passion. Success didn't come overnight though. Each challenge in her life promoted a change in her career, and ultimately led to her finding a passion that allowed her to flourish while spending quality time with her family. Today, she strives to be an inspiration and role model to dri...

Renowned Healer, Shaman and Author - Ellie Pechet

Looking to explore the world of energy healing? Tune in to Breaking Barriers where host John Vagueiro invites the renowned healer and holistic practitioner, Ellie Pechet,  to share her insights and techniques. Ellie Pechet has spent over two decades developing her intuitive abilities and incorporating various healing modalities such as Reiki, shamanism, and spiritual healing into her practice. With her vast experience in energy work, Pechet has helped countless individuals overcome physical...

Chef & Owner of Ed's Lobster Bar - Ed McFarland

Ed McFarland is the Chef and Owner of Ed's Lobster Bar in Soho and the Hamptons. On this episode of Breaking Barriers, Ed brings the Lobster Bar experience to the studio! Check out the full podcast for a live taste-testing. Ed's Lobster Bar is a seafood spot with a New England fish-house vibe featuring a raw bar, lobster rolls & fish plates located in Soho and The Hamptons. Feeling hungry? Check out their menu: Feeling Social? Say Hello on IG @chefedmcfarland and  @edslobsterbar ​

NJ-Based Chef & Entrepreneur - James Avery

You may have seen Chef James Avery on a few of Gordan Ramsay's cooking shows, working on the culinary team and sous chef positions for seasons. Or, you may be familiar with his incredibly well-known restaurants in booming Asbury Park, NJ: The Black Swan and The Bonney Read. Being a chef, mentor and entrepreneur that has gained tremendous respect and status from those around him - how did James get to where he is in such a competitive and creative industry? Listen and enjoy. Want to know ...

Owners of Klein's Fish Market - Jacqueline Leon and Tod Vitalis

Carrying on a family business can come with a lot of pressure to succeed. Jacqueline Leon and Tod Vitalis are fourth-generation owners of Klein's Fish Market, located along the Jersey Shore in Belmar, NJ. Their Great Grandfather started the business, and it's been passed down ever since. So, how do they keep this business thriving for generations to enjoy? Tune in to this episode of Breaking Barriers to hear their journey. 

Owner, Nino's Coal Fired Pizza - Anthony Schifilliti

A true family man, Anthony Schifilliti - Owner of Nino's Coal Fired Pizza- has kept "Nonna's" recipes alive building a business where her dishes can be loved. Building an Italian restaurant along the Jersey Shore poses as a challenge in itself. Anthony found a successful way to differentiate his restaurant from others in the saturated NJ market. Nino's Coal Fired Restaurant located in Ocean County, NJ offers a myriad of italian dishes descending from "Nonna's" recipes. With homemade pasta a...

CEO & Founder of Jersey Shore Supplements and AstroFlav - Brian Tweer

CEO & Founder of Jersey Shore Supplements and AstroFlav, Brian Tweer, started his journey in 2013 and has since grown tremendously, but not without facing challenges.  From facing a cease and desist immediately after starting his business to scaling to multiple locations and a 7,500 sq. ft warehouse - Brian has hurdled over  challenges to keep the momentum going. Listen to the full podcast to hear his story! Feeling social? Follow Brian Tweer on Instagram @BrianTweer Or check out his busi...

Brian Tweer - CEO & Founder of Jersey Shore Supplements and AstroFlav

CEO & Founder of Jersey Shore Supplements and AstroFlav, Brian Tweer, started his journey in 2013 and has since grown tremendously, but not without facing challenges.  From facing a cease and desist immediately after starting his business to scaling to multiple locations and a 7,500 sq. ft warehouse - Brian has hurdled over  challenges to keep the momentum going. Listen to the full podcast to hear his story! Feeling social? Follow Brian Tweer on Instagram @BrianTweer Or check out his busi...

Digital Marketer & Sales Enthusiast - Matthew Iglesias

How fast would you jump to a new opportunity?   Digital Marketer & Sales Enthusiast, Matthew Iglesias has been building his advertising company since he was a teenager. After much thought, he was brave enough to take a leap for a new journey, which has ultimately made him more successful than ever before.  Matthew’s philosophy is about being open, whether it’s to your instincts, new opportunities or spirituality. Throughout the podcast, he and John discuss the importance of trusting yoursel...

CEO of Abe's Fitty Foods - Abraham Pena

CEO of Abe's Fitty Foods - Abraham Peña

From unhoused and barely surviving to being able to vacation in Italy, Abraham Pena, CEO of Fitty Foods has had a tough road to success. What began as a mission to help nourish his sick mother with healthy foods became a passion for nutrition that inspired him to create Abe’s Fitty Foods. Tragedy struck soon after, leaving him without a mother or a home.  Throughout his history as an entrepreneur, Abe has endured countless obstacles, from grief and depression to just plain bad luck. However...

New York Times Best-Selling Author & CEO of SAMCOR Productions - Suzanne Corso

Not many people have a life story that could easily be mistaken for a movie, but Suzanne Corso is one of them. As a New York Times Best-Selling Author of three books, Suzanne cross-references her own life events and memories in her novels. As a teenager, Suzanne was raised by a single struggling mom, and soon went off to date a Brooklyn mobster, that was later indicted after 22 murders. Soon after that chaos settles, she meets the Wall St. man of her dreams, giving her a luxurious life of l...

Founders of My First Nest Egg - Nicolle Hood & Annie Shoen

Do your kids understand the value of a dollar? Former attorneys, Nicolle Hood and Annie Shoen came to the quick realization their kids were financially illiterate after finding dollars in lint filters or hearing "Can't you get another on amazon?". The best friend duo decided they needed to make a change. After finding no resources teaching those under 10 about money management skills, My First Nest Egg was born with a goal to give their children financial education with a focus on earning. ...

CEO of Parts Detect - Stan Mirzayev

Over the past 50 years, the automotive industry has drastically transformed. For car lovers out there, you know how difficult it can be to find a part for your older car. CEO, Stan Mirzayev built the app Parts Detect, which gives car owners easy and free access to search for replacement parts for their specific vehicle.  Parts Detect is a marketplace for new car parts, a search engine that aggregates available inventory from local part suppliers. The Parts Detect platform is accessed throu...

This Too Shall Pass ft. Stan Mirzayev

Over the past 50 years, the automotive industry has drastically transformed. For car lovers out there, you know how difficult it can be to find a part for your older car. CEO, Stan Mirzayev built the app Parts Detect, which gives car owners easy and free access to search for replacement parts for their specific vehicle.  Parts Detect is a marketplace for new car parts, a search engine that aggregates available inventory from local part suppliers. The Parts Detect platform is accessed throu...

#167 | We Are Not Promised Tomorrow ft. Sabrina Winters

What happens to your belongings, your legacy, you family when you pass on? Sabrina Winters, North Carolina Estate Planning Attorney, was inspired by a personal and traumatic family death that led to the importance of estate planning. You don't know what tomorrow is going to bring so you have to plan today.  Tune in to Breaking Barriers to hear her journey and tips for setting your family and loved ones up for success and allow your legacy to live on.  Get in Contact with Sabrina Winters: h...

North Carolina Estate Planning Attorney - Sabrina Winters

What happens to your belongings, your legacy, you family when you pass on? Sabrina Winters, North Carolina Estate Planning Attorney, was inspired by a personal and traumatic family death that led to the importance of estate planning. You don't know what tomorrow is going to bring so you have to plan today.  Tune in to Breaking Barriers to hear her journey and tips for setting your family and loved ones up for success and allow your legacy to live on.  Get in Contact with Sabrina Winters: h...

#166 | Set The Tone with Tony Worrell

New Yorkers have a special type of love for their city. In this episode, Compass Real Estate Agent, Tony Worrell, walks and talks New York City; From projecting where Brooklyn real estate will be in the next few years to sharing some tips on how to capitalize on the city’s current market.  Tony Worrell is a Brooklyn and Manhattan luxury real estate agent, and owner of event venue space, 4am. Check him out on Instagram: @iheart718 or say hello at tonyworrell.com!

Compass Real Estate Agent - Tony Worrell

New Yorkers have a special type of love for their city. In this episode, Compass Real Estate Agent, Tony Worrell, walks and talks New York City; From projecting where Brooklyn real estate will be in the next few years to sharing some tips on how to capitalize on the city’s current market.  Tony Worrell is a Brooklyn and Manhattan luxury real estate agent, and owner of event venue space, 4am. Check him out on Instagram: @iheart718 or say hello at tonyworrell.com!

CEO & Founder of LG Insurance Agency - Aaron Levine

Uncovering the definition of working smarter, not harder. Starting his business 14 years ago, CEO & Founder of LG Insurance Agency, Aaron Levine realized that he is able to write fewer  policies and make a lot more money if he focused on high net worth individuals with significant assets and properties around the country.  LG Insurance Agency is a boutique, full-service insurance agency located in New Jersey dedicated to full customer support through advocacy. They pride themselves in havi...

Get It Done ft. Aaron Levine

Uncovering the definition of working smarter, not harder. Starting his business 14 years ago, CEO & Founder of LG Insurance Agency, Aaron Levine realized that he is able to write fewer  policies and make a lot more money if he focused on high net worth individuals with significant assets and properties around the country.  LG Insurance Agency is a boutique, full-service insurance agency located in New Jersey dedicated to full customer support through advocacy. They pride themselves in havi...

#165 | Get It Done ft. Aaron Levine

Uncovering the definition of working smarter, not harder. Starting his business 14 years ago, CEO & Founder of LG Insurance Agency, Aaron Levine realized that he is able to write fewer  policies and make a lot more money if he focused on high net worth individuals with significant assets and properties around the country.  LG Insurance Agency is a boutique, full-service insurance agency located in New Jersey dedicated to full customer support through advocacy. They pride themselves in havi...

Founder & CEO of Nufabrx - Jordan Schindler

Global leader in HealthWear, Jordan Schindler - Founder and CEO of Nufabrx shares the concept behind his Healthwear® product, which puts active ingredients into textile fabrics, which can be programmed for controlled release to the skin.  When knitted into their products, they consistently deliver therapeutic amounts of the ingredients directly to the skin.