In this episode of the What It Takes Podcast, we sit down with Avi Singer, Founder and CEO of Showd.me - a leader who hacked the corporate ladder from day one and later built a multi-million-dollar SaaS company without raising a single dollar of venture capital.
Avi breaks down his journey from a $65k entry-level role at DoubleClick (later acquired by Google) to bootstrapping and scaling a profitable, remote-first business. He shares the unfiltered reality of entrepreneurship: the moments he nearly quit, the pressure of making payroll, and the tough leadership decisions that come with being the one in charge.
This conversation is a masterclass in strategic career planning, sustainable company building, and rejecting Silicon Valley hype in favor of real, durable success. Whether you’re climbing the corporate ladder, building a startup, or trying to lead a team that actually cares, this episode delivers insights you won’t hear anywhere else.
💡 In This Episode, We Cover:
◼️ How Avi leveraged an Ivy League degree to land his first $65k job◼️ Adopting a “future VP” mindset from day one in corporate life◼️ Why he tells 99% of people not to start a tech startup◼️ The accidental pivot from a “nice-to-have” to a true “must-have” product◼️ Building a 50-person remote team across 13 states—with no office◼️ The hardest CEO skill: knowing when to walk away from easy money◼️ How to identify, promote, and retain rockstar employees—and when to let go◼️ The servant-leadership philosophy that creates real loyalty◼️ Navigating founder identity crises and near burnout◼️ Why most software companies fail—and how to avoid the same traps◼️ Avi’s non-negotiable advice for first-time founders
⏱️ Chapters
00:00 From Columbia to Corporate: Hacking the $65k Start
11:45 The Terminal Degree: Planning Your Career Like a Chess Game
14:27 Why I Left a $250k+ VP Job to Start From Scratch
21:42 The Pivot That Saved the Business
30:12 Hiring (and Firing) for a Team That Runs Without You
34:50 Building a Remote Culture That Actually Works
53:48 The Vacation Test: How to Know You’re a Good Leader
1:03:03 From Unicorn Dreams to Building a Real Business
🔗 Connect with Avi Singer
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/avisinger/Website: https://www.showd.me/
🔗 Connect with Tuli KrausX (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKrausInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/
Sponsored by Blackbird Recruiting. Tired of sorting through unqualified résumés? Blackbird Recruiting helps you hire top talent—so you can focus on growing your business. Visit blackbirdrecruiting.com to learn more.
In this powerful episode of the What It Takes Podcast, we sit down with Sam Shvarzblat, a contractor and entrepreneur who has lived both realities—being the boss and walking away from being the boss. Sam built a construction company from scratch in his early 20s, scaled it to multiple large projects, battled cash-flow pressure, burnout, family expectations, and eventually made the toughest decision an entrepreneur can make: closing his own company.
This conversation is brutally honest. Sam opens up about the identity crisis founders face, the ego tied to “being your own boss,” how cash flow really works behind the scenes in construction, and why moving his family to a new community changed everything. Whether you're an entrepreneur, contractor, or someone who’s ever wondered if stepping away is failure or growth—this episode will hit home.
This is a raw masterclass in humility, rebuilding, and what it really takes to balance business, family, faith, and your own well-being.
💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:
◼️ Sam’s early journey into construction and why he skipped working for others ◼️ The harsh truth about being a young business owner in the trades ◼️ Why most contractors struggle with cash flow—and how to fix it ◼️ The “friends & family discount” myth ◼️ The realities of managing 10+ simultaneous construction projects ◼️ Burnout, identity, and the moment Sam knew he had to step away ◼️ Moving from Lakewood to Monsey: lifestyle, community, and values ◼️ Economic slowdown, stalled projects, and clients pulling deposits ◼️ What it feels like to shut down your own company ◼️ How Sam rebuilt his life, career, and sense of direction ◼️ What every new entrepreneur should understand before starting
⏱️ Chapters
00:00 When the Dream of Being Your Own Boss Starts to Crack
2:19 Why I Refused to Become a Copy-Paste Contractor
6:19 Friends, Family & the Truth About ‘Discount Work’
7:06 Why Friends Should Pay MORE—Not Less
8:26 At My Peak: Running 10 Projects with a Tiny Team
10:25 The Cash-Flow Trap That Destroys Most Contractors
13:10 The Question I Never Wanted to Answer: Why I Closed My Company
16:46 The Commute That Broke Me: 4:30 AM Drives & Endless Inspections
17:55 When Clients Pump the Brakes & the Economy Turns on You
26:56 The Identity Shift of Going from a Boss to an Employee
34:49 Being an Employee vs Doing Your Own Thing
37:35 The Biggest Lessons I’ve Learned in These Chapters of My Life
🔗 Connect with Sam Shvarzblat: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samshvarzblat/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samshvarz/
🔗 Connect with Tuli Kraus: X (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/
This episode is sponsored by Blackbird Recruiting. Tired of sifting through unqualified résumés? Let Blackbird Recruiting find you top talent so you can focus on growing your business. Visit blackbirdrecruiting.com to learn more.
In this insightful episode of the What It Takes podcast, we sit down with Morris Isaacson, the Chief Marketing Officer of Empeon, whose career spans more than two decades across brand strategy, digital marketing, and high-growth tech leadership. Morris has led marketing for iconic global brands like Polaroid, played a key role in a $1.1B IPO, and built data-driven marketing engines inside fast-scaling organizations.
He breaks down the real evolution of modern marketing—from the creativity-first “Mad Men” era to the analytics, attribution, and performance-driven landscape companies operate in today. This episode is packed with career lessons, leadership insights, and a behind-the-scenes look at how top CMOs build brands that grow revenue, teams, and long-term impact.
This is a masterclass in building a valuable career, leading high-performance teams, and staying ahead in one of the fastest-changing industries in the world.
💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:
◼️ Morris’s unconventional start: From psychology major to entertainment marketing◼️ Why marketing has shifted from art to science◼️ How to prove your value and win budget from data-driven CFOs◼️ The Polaroid comeback: Rebranding a nostalgic icon◼️ How to build a marketing team from zero◼️ The real ROI of trade shows — and how to execute them right◼️ Aligning sales and marketing for accurate pipeline data◼️ Career compensation: When your salary finally reflects your value◼️ What Morris looks for when hiring modern marketing talent◼️ The one skill that will make you irreplaceable today◼️ Final advice: Why doing what you love leads to a fulfilling career
⏱️ Chapters
00:00 Introduction & Podcast Purpose1:11 Guest Introduction: Morris Isaacson, CMO of Empeon2:18 The Unforgettable First Job Interview5:27 Early Career: From IDT to Yeshiva University9:21 The Polaroid Turnaround Story11:29 Building & Managing Marketing Teams16:35 The Evolution of Marketing: Data vs. Creativity19:08 Mastering Trade Shows & Proving ROI32:20 Career Advice: Compensation, Mistakes, and Hiring40:01 Final Thoughts: The 22-Year Career Reflection
🔗 Connect with Morris Isaacson: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/misaacson/
🔗 Connect with Tuli Kraus: X (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/
This episode is sponsored by Blackbird Recruiting. Tired of sifting through unqualified résumés? Let Blackbird Recruiting find you top talent so you can focus on building your business. Visit blackbirdrecruiting.com to learn more.
How does faith rewire your entire career? In this powerful episode of the What It Takes podcast, we sit down with Mrs. Esther Bergman, the CFO of Chai Lifeline, who oversees a massive $45 million budget dedicated to helping families with critically ill children.
Esther takes us on her incredible journey from a Spanish-speaking immigrant taking a job as a store greeter to becoming the financial leader of one of the most impactful non-profits. She pulls back the curtain on her unique philosophy that you don't work for your boss—you work for God—and shares how this mindset opened doors no résumé ever could. She reveals how a prayer for fish in Costa Rica was directly answered, the time she saved a $100M organization from collapse, and why she schedules her “depression” for 5 AM.
This is a raw, inspiring, and deeply spiritual conversation about the power of showing up, the true meaning of money, and how to lead with compassion—even when you have to let someone go.
💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:
◼️ Esther’s journey from Costa Rica to CFO without a finance degree
◼️ The Costa Rica “Fish Market Miracle” and talking to God in everyday life
◼️ Her grandmother’s powerful lesson: “Money is like fire”
◼️ The brutal cash flow crisis that threatened to shut down a $100M organization
◼️ How to transition from an individual contributor to a leader who builds other leaders
◼️ The art of firing someone with kindness and a prayer for their future
◼️ Why being multi-talented can be a curse for your career
◼️ The $15 million secret behind Chai Lifeline’s volunteer force
◼️ How to make a lateral career move that sets you up for long-term success
◼️ Her advice for anyone wanting to build a meaningful career in finance or non-profit
⏱️ Timestamps
00:00 Meet Esther Bergman: The CFO Who Works for God
1:04 The Costa Rica Fish Market Miracle
7:50 Immigrant Story: First Job as a Store Greeter in Brooklyn
10:53 The Kleinfeld Bridal Breakthrough
22:56 Switching from Customer Service to Finance
34:51 How to Fire Someone with Compassion
38:25 The $45M Budget of Chai Lifeline & The $15M Secret
43:02 The Crisis: A $100M Organization Frozen by Fraud
44:37 The Brilliant Idea That Saved the Company
50:50 Final Advice: How to Build a Career with Purpose
🔗 Connect with Esther Bergman
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/esther-bergman-87579117/
🔗 Connect with Tuli Kraus
X (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/
This episode is sponsored by Blackbird Recruiting. Tired of sifting through unqualified resumes? Let Blackbird Recruiting find you top talent so you can focus on building your business. Visit blackbirdrecruiting.com to learn more.
The Brutal Truth About Being A Creative Director | How a Borough Park Kid Landed HBO, Polaroid, and Brother ft. Sam Ash
How data and storytelling can build a career? In this episode of the What It Takes podcast, we sit down with Sam Ash (not the music store!), a marketing powerhouse and the unconventional creative mind behind iconic campaigns for HBO, Brother, Polaroid, and countless brands in the frum world.
Sam takes us on a hilarious and insightful journey from his Borough Park Yeshiva days to the top of the advertising world, pulling back the curtain on how he launched the Brother P-Touch, made Paint fascinating, and why he never wears the same "professional" face twice. He shares profound lessons on faith, family, and why today's consumers don't want to think, they want to feel.
This is a raw, funny, and deeply authentic conversation about the power of a great idea, the importance of knowing your "why," and what Jewish marketing is missing.
💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:
◼️ Sam’s journey from a Yeshiva kid in Borough Park to a sought-after creative director
◼️ The hilarious story of launching the Brother P-Touch and the "aha" moment that created a new product category
◼️ His philosophy that you're not selling the drill, you're selling the hole! Why benefits always beat features
◼️ The challenge of balancing a demanding creative career with family life and faith
◼️ Why the frum community is the last great bastion of print advertising and how to use it effectively
◼️ His unexpected encounter with John Ratzenberger (Cliff from "Cheers") and the life lesson about money and family
◼️ How to "niche yourself" to break into a creative career
◼️ The problem with AI, SEO, and why they can't replace true talent and insight
◼️ What most Jewish marketing is missing and the agencies that are getting it right
◼️ His advice for business owners on how to choose the right creative agency
⏱️ Timestamps
00:00 Meet Sam Ash: The Unconventional Creative
3:09 From Borough Park to Big Brands: A Yeshiva Kid's Origin Story
5:07 The Brother P-Touch Launch: Selling the Hole, Not the Drill
22:45 Faith in the Workplace: Wearing a Kippah in Corporate America
27:16 The John Ratzenberger Story: A $150,000 Lesson on Priorities
35:48 How to Break Into a Creative Career: Niche Yourself
41:29 The State of Jewish Marketing: The Last Bastion of Print
43:10 Sam's Final Advice: How to Pick the Right Creative Agency
🔗 Connect with Sam Ash
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samash180/
🔗 Connect with Tuli Kraus
X (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/
#WhatItTakesPodcast #Marketing #Advertising #BrandStrategy #CreativeDirector #Entrepreneurship #JewishBusiness #Startup #CareerAdvice
Episode made possible by Blackbird Recruiting. Check em out Blackbirdrecruiting.com
After building a tech business and working with giants like Google and Microsoft, Hillel Fuld SHUT IT ALL DOWN after October 7th. He now commands one of the most powerful pro-Israel voices online, reaching BILLIONS of impressions. In this bombshell conversation, he exposes the uncomfortable truths about Zionism, the open miracles happening in Israel, and why he believes there is "zero justification" for any Jew to live outside their homeland today.
Hillel Fuld is a leading Israeli tech strategist and a powerhouse advocate for Israel, with a massive following across social media platforms.
IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS:
◼️ The shocking reason Israel is being "decimated" in the PR war—and what they're doing wrong
◼️ How Zionism is as core to Judaism as Shabbat, and the Gemara that proves it
◼️ The modern-day "gun to your head" argument for why Jews must leave now
◼️ Debunking the biggest Aliyah myths: salaries, language, and quality of life
◼️ Incredible, open miracles from the war that prove divine intervention
◼️ How the Israeli job market really works (it's not about your resume)
◼️ The one thing that still drives him crazy about living in Israel after 30 years
_______________________________________________________________________
00:00 Introduction & Banter
00:31 The Accidental Tech Guru: Hillel's Origin Story
03:10 The Game-Changing Assistant & Business Transformation
04:55 The October 7th Pivot: Shutting Down for Israel
07:48 Why Israel is Losing the PR War
10:25 Defining Zionism & The Core of Jewish Identity
14:24 The Modern-Day "Gun to Your Head" Argument
16:53 Addressing the "I'll Go When Mashiach Comes" Viewpoint
21:54 The "Open Miracles" of the Israel-Hamas War
23:58 A Personal Story of Divine Intervention: The Australian Visa
29:08 Israel as a Practical Paradise: Debunking Aliyah Myths
32:13 How the Israeli Job Market Really Works
41:56 What Actually Drives Him Crazy About Israel
48:35 The Flip Side: The Magic of Israeli Community
51:22 Final Plea: Make a Plan
_______________________________________________________________________
CONNECT WITH HILLEL:
X (Twitter): https://x.com/hilzfuld
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hilzfuld/?hl=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HillelFuld/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hilzfuld/
What If Everything You Knew About Hiring Was Wrong? featuring Aaron KleinHow to build an all-star team without the sky-high costs? In this episode, we crack the code on hiring amazing talent from around the world.Tuli Kraus chats with Aaron Klein from Real Hires, who spills all the secrets on finding incredible offshore remote talent, from executive assistants and bookkeepers to tech whizzes.We explored which countries are best for specific roles, how to avoid common hiring mistakes, and the mindset shift that turns a remote hire from a cost into your best investment. If you're thinking about hiring remotely but nervous about how to make it actually work. This conversation is your game plan.💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:◼️ Transitioning from Outsourcing Problems to a Direct-Hire Remote Model◼️ Categorizing Remote Roles into Three Distinct Responsibility Tiers◼️ Matching Country-Specific Talent Strengths to Specific Job Functions◼️ Humanizing Remote Work to Build Loyalty and Increase Productivity◼️ Shifting the Focus from Employee Presence to Measurable Output◼️ The Critical Difference Between Delegating Tasks and Delegating Responsibilities◼️ Accessing a Global Talent Pool for a Better Return on Investment◼️ Avoiding the Impulsive "Shiny Penny" Approach to Hiring Remote Talent◼️ Why the Highest-Level Operational Roles Often Need to Be Local◼️ Building a Multi-Country Sourcing Strategy to Avoid Talent Shortages⏱️ Timestamps00:00 The Betrayal That Started It All5:34 From Employee to Boss: The Ultimate Power Move7:38 The Secret Global Talent Map13:27 The Shocking "Lunch Break" Mass Exodus19:50 The Big Lie About Remote Work24:56 The "Bystander Effect" is Killing Your ROI40:31 How to Build a Cult (Culture) Remotely51:55 We Hired a NASA Engineer & a Fox News Booker58:29 The TRUTH About the "Return to Office" Order1:03:23 How to Find Us & Steal Our Talent🔗 Connect with Aaron Klein Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realhires/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronklein-rh/🔗 Connect with Tuli KrausX (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/
The Car Industry Secrets | How China Is Beating Everyone at Making Cars ft. Rob FarmerHow a car goes from a simple sketch to a vehicle on the road or how a massive company like Nissan decides what to build next? In this episode, we sit down with Rob Farmer, a former top executive at Nissan, to pull back the curtain on the auto industry. From managing a global team of 50 to navigating the massive shifts caused by electric vehicles and AI, Rob shares incredible insider stories.He told us how market research is being revolutionized, why some cars get discontinued, and what it really takes to build a leadership career in a multi-billion-dollar corporation.💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:◼️ The 5-year process of building a car and why companies are desperate to cut that time in half◼️ Managing a global team of 50 people across four countries and the challenges of modern hiring◼️ Why you can’t just poach talent from Tesla or China and the creative partnerships Nissan used to upskill its workforce◼️ How AI is creating “synthetic customers” to replace focus groups and get 80% of the insights for 20% of the cost◼️ The one simple AI tool that saved Rob hours each week and why “unlearning” is the most important career skill◼️ A behind-the-scenes look at Nissan’s billion-dollar marketing budget and how they track what’s working◼️ The surprising story behind the Nissan Arya and why its interior space defies expectations◼️ How and why car companies “kill” a model from the Titan truck to the quirky Cube◼️ The future of the auto market: the coming split between “blue state” and “red state” car lineups◼️ Practical career advice on promotions, salary expectations, and balancing ambition with family life⏱️ Timestamps00:00 This Is What a Top Executive's Day Actually Looks Like2:59 You Can't Just Hire the Talent You Need Anymore7:46 AI Won't Steal Your Job, But Someone Using It Will10:44 I Saved Hours a Week With This Simple AI Hack12:02 We Replaced Focus Groups With AI Personalities17:01 How We Tracked a Billion-Dollar Marketing Budget21:37 The "Too Small" Car That Surprised Everyone27:34 From a Simple Idea to a Car on the Road44:45 Here's the Career Advice I Wish I Knew Sooner50:50 These Are the Discontinued Cars I Still Miss🔗 Connect with Rob FarmerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-farmer-1522992/ Website: https://www.rob-farmer.com/🔗 Connect with Tuli KrausX (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/
A Story of Faith & Building a Torah Community from Scratch with Yoni RodanskyWhat it takes to build a Torah community from the ground up? In this episode, we sit down with Yoni Rodansky, a Five Towns native who, along with a wave of other young families, is building a vibrant Jewish community in Louisville, Kentucky.He shares the incredible story of how they went from no daily minyan to a booming community, pulled off a $700,000 fundraising campaign, and used a clever viral marketing stunt that brought in 23 serious family inquiries in just four weeks.This is a raw look at the miracles, the hustle, and the real-life appeal of being a builder in a place where your presence truly matters.
💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:
◼️ How a kid from the Five Towns ended up as a community builder in Louisville, Kentucky
◼️ The powerful lesson that “the yetzer hara can’t stop you, he can only make you want to give up”
◼️ The clever recruitment event (with free sushi and babysitting) that first got his wife on board
◼️ Why Louisville’s established infrastructure like its Eruv and affordable housing makes it a hidden gem
◼️ The wild miracles of launching with no money and still making payroll every single month
◼️ How they raised $700,000 for a community outside the major Jewish hubs and what resonated with donors
◼️ The $10,000 raffle marketing stunt that went viral and brought in 23 family leads in just one month
◼️ What kind of family thrives in Louisville (hint: it’s for builders, not just consumers)
◼️ The real talk on making a living, with plenty of job opportunities and a low cost of living
◼️ The incredible growth they’re seeing, with six families already scheduled to come for Shabbos⏱️
Timestamps00:00 Welcome to the Jewish Frontier in Louisville, Kentucky1:04 How a Five Towns Kid Ended Up in Kentucky2:04 The Pioneering Rabbis Who Planted the First Seeds3:18 How Tampa Built a Community Overnight4:07 The One Truth About Overcoming Any Challenge5:08 The Clever Trick That Got Wives On Board8:23 Why Louisville is the Secret Gem for Jewish Life12:02 We Launched With No Money and Witnessed Miracles17:29 How We Raised $700,000 on a Leap of Faith21:14 Our Viral Marketing Stunt That Brought 23 Families28:31
Is Louisville Your Next Home? Here's How to Know
🔗 Connect with Yoni RodanskyLinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/yoni-rudansky-15a029339/
🔗 Connect with Tuli KrausX (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/
In this episode of The What It Takes Podcast, we sit down with Ron Coleman, a top-tier 1st Amendment lawyer, prominent legal blogger, and social media powerhouse with over 250,000 followers on X (formerly Twitter). Ron has built a massive online presence while maintaining a highly successful legal career, and in this episode, he opens up about how he’s navigated the intersection of law, blogging, and online influence.We dive into his journey from practicing law to becoming one of the leading lawyer bloggers in the country. Ron shares how he built his online following, the challenges he’s faced in managing his platform, and how social media has impacted his legal career and client relationships. We also discuss his experience working with the Trump team, the advice he has for attorneys looking to build their personal brand, and his thoughts on the future of the legal profession in the digital age.A special thank you to our sponsors:United Refuah HealthShareAn affordable alternative to health insurance. Learn more at http://bit.ly/46s0F6fThe 3rd month of membership is free for new applicants. Enroll by 8/31 with code BLACKBIRDMegaPayUSASimplifying payroll with cutting-edge technology and dedicated support. Visit https://www.megapayusa.com/BLACKBIRDRECRUITING to streamline your payroll process today!
The Legal Realities Every Employer (and Employee) Must Know ft. Chaim BookWhat really happens behind the scenes when businesses get sued or how small HR mistakes can cost companies thousands?In this episode of the What It Takes podcast, host Tuli Kraus sits down with Chaim Book, an employment attorney with over 30 years of experience. What starts as a conversation about Chaim’s unexpected journey into employment law, which he initially entered “kicking and screaming,” evolves into a masterclass on what every employee and business owner needs to know.We discussed the common and costly mistakes companies make, from misclassifying workers to failing to document performance issues. Chaim breaks down complex topics like remote work challenges, non-compete clauses, and even the legal tightrope of running a business with religious values.Whether you’re an employer trying to understand the payroll and HR or an employee wanting to understand your rights, this conversation is packed with practical advice, real-life stories, and essential tips to protect yourself and your business.💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:◼️ How Chaim fell into employment law by accident and started his own firm◼️ The biggest mistakes employers make, like not tracking hours or documenting issues◼️ Why misclassifying a worker as a 1099 contractor is a major risk◼️ The challenges of managing remote employees and tracking their time◼️ Getting everything in writing from offer letters to commission plans◼️ Why “at-will employment” doesn’t mean you can be unfair◼️ The legal complexities of workplace segregation for religious modesty◼️ Understanding employee rights around Paid Family Leave and maternity leave◼️ The confusing and changing rules around non-compete agreements◼️ Tips for working successfully with family members◼️ The number one takeaway: always put important agreements in writing⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Meet the Expert: An Accidental Career in Law5:11 The Entrepreneurial Leap: Starting a Law Firm From Scratch7:04 What Is Employment Law: A Lifespan Overview9:24 The 4 Costliest Mistakes Every Business Owner Makes14:10 Tracking Time and the 1099 Minefield: How to Get It Right23:16 Employee Red Flags: What to Get in Writing29:44 The Remote Work Revolution: New Challenges for Employers32:05 Discrimination, Fairness, and Why At-Will Is Not a Free Pass37:01 The Modesty Dilemma: Religious Values in the Workplace52:48 Workplace Privacy: Phones, Monitoring, and HR58:46 Inside the Courtroom: Chaim’s Most Memorable Lawsuit1:04:51 Final Takeaways: Working with Family and the #1 Rule to Avoid Lawsuits🔗 Connect with Chaim Book X (Twitter): https://x.com/chaimbook LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chaimbook/🔗 Connect with Tuli KrausX (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/
Why Your "Easy" Life Is Actually Holding You Back | Facts About Living in Israel ft. Eli FreedmanHow does a glass restoration entrepreneur from Montreal end up running a luxury wine concierge service in Israel? In this episode, we sit down with Eli Freedman, the founder of Cork & Cellar. Eli shares his incredible journey of running multiple businesses simultaneously, the life-changing decision to move his family to Israel, and how he built a new, innovative company from the ground up just months before the war began.He pulls back the curtain on the realities of making Aliyah—the bureaucracy, the fears, the mindset shift, and the ultimate rewards. From a chance encounter that saved his business to a divine-inspired idea that launched his next venture, this is a story of faith, risk, and relentless adaptation.💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:◼️ The chaotic reality of managing a full-time job and a side business simultaneously◼️ The moment he decided to move to Israel and the "absolute decision" to have no regrets◼️ The arduous, frustrating, and often comical process of Israeli bureaucracy and buying an apartment◼️ Why the "easy life" isn't the point of life, and the beauty of a simpler existence in Israel◼️ The "lightbulb" dream that sparked his luxury wine concierge business, Cork & Cellar◼️ Launching a half-million dollar business 3 months before October 7th—and how he had to pivot overnight◼️ The birth of his new wine club, shipping unique Israeli wines directly to American homes◼️ Practical, hard-earned advice for anyone considering Aliyah: from making a plan to the #1 mindset you need to survive and thrive⏱️ Timestamps00:00 The Man Who Ran a Business From His Boss's Office2:08 How a $1M Contract Almost Broke the Business5:03 The Stranger Who Flew In With a Miracle Solution9:54 The Demo Day That Almost Failed11:28 Building a Lucrative, Seasonal Empire13:52 "I'm Ready to Move to Israel" - The Decision That Changed Everything16:38 The Brutal Reality of the Aliyah Paperwork18:10 Selling Everything & The Year of Transition20:04 The Israeli Real Estate Mind Game21:03 Let Go & Let God: The Mindset for Life in Israel23:01 The Dream That Launched a Wine Business27:43 The War, The Pivot, and Saving the Business30:57 The Phone Call From Nebraska That Changed Everything33:25 Inside the Cork & Cellar Israeli Wine Club38:50 The #1 Piece of Advice for Moving to Israel🔗 Connect with Eli FreedmanLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eli-freedman/🔗 Connect with Tuli KrausX (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKrausInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/
The One Decision That Changed My Business Forever | The Laibel Schwartz StoryHow a guy shooting bar mitzvahs and weddings turned his camera into a full-scale corporate media powerhouse?In this episode of the What It Takes podcast, we sit down with Laibel Schwartz, the creative force behind the renowned photography and video company, Laibel.Laibel opens up about his journey from late-night wedding shoots to producing high-end corporate content for major brands. He shares the real ups and downs of entrepreneurship from surviving the rollercoaster economy to learning how to work with his wife as a true partner in life and business.You’ll hear how his unconventional “first three free” strategy made his headshots go viral on LinkedIn, how he found a mentor who completely changed his trajectory, and why success, in the end, isn’t about fame or money, it’s about taking care of your family, your team, and your clients.💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:◼️ The “Economic Ferris Wheel”, why some businesses rise while others fall◼️ How finding the right mentor can completely change your life◼️ The pivotal shift from wedding photography to the corporate world◼️ The real talk on working with your spouse (and making it work)◼️ The free headshot strategy that built a viral brand on LinkedIn◼️ The secret to scaling a creative business and teaching your process◼️ How to identify your true strengths and double down on them◼️ Why breaking the rules can sometimes be your biggest advantage◼️ The challenge of letting go and hiring someone to run the business◼️ What to tell yourself when the future feels uncertain and stressful⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Meet Laibel Schwartz: The Master Storyteller1:47 The Economic Ferris Wheel: Who’s Up and Who’s Down4:49 The Secret Weapon: Finding a Mentor Like David Wanunu5:48 From Weddings to Corporate - The Pivotal Shift9:58 The Ultimate Test: Working With Your Spouse15:07 The “Aha” Moment — Discovering the Power of Headshots 23:51 The “First Three Free” Rule That Built an Empire 28:01 Scaling a Creative Beast — From Laibel to Everyone Needs a Video 33:58 The Industry That Fuels His Passion: Healthcare Heroes 37:02 The #1 Underrated Skill for Creatives 43:48 Creating Your Own Game — Why Laibel Doesn’t Follow the Rules 51:05 The Final Challenge — Letting Go to Grow 59:15 The Ultimate Reassurance — A Message to His Younger Self🔗 Connect with Laibel SchwartzInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/laibelschwartzphotography/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laibelschwartz/Website: https://laibel.com/🔗 Connect with Tuli KrausX (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/
This One Lesson Cost Me a $10 Million Deal | Journey of Building a Law Firm ft. Uri KirschnerGet ready for an episode packed with hustle, heart, and some seriously crazy stories.In this episode of the What It Takes podcast, Tuli Kraus sits down with Uri Kirschner, a real estate attorney with 30 years of wild experiences from landing a Wall Street job as a determined 15-year-old to closing a multi-million dollar deal while hooked to an IV.But beyond the legal world, Uri is also the passionate founder of The 100 Ride, a charity bike event that has raised close to $5 million for local causes by leveraging one powerful idea: 100% of the donations go straight to charity.This conversation is a masterclass in seizing opportunity, the power of persistence, and building a legacy that gives back.💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:◼️ How Uri’s childhood businesses selling potato chips and Parker pens in school set the stage for his future◼️ The unbelievable story of how Uri, at 15, persistently called a CEO’s office, showed up with flowers, and landed a job that led to daily lunches with the boss◼️ How a Wall Street CEO over a kosher lunch convinced him to become a real estate attorney to be at the center of all the action◼️ Uri’s philosophy on growing a successful law practice through word-of-mouth and doing great work for clients, without any advertising◼️ The story of the empty lot he was too afraid to jump on a painful but priceless $8.5 million lesson in overcoming the fear of failure◼️ The time a deal dragged on for days and Uri had to leave the hospital with an IV bag still in his arm to get it across the finish line◼️ The joys and realities of working with family including why he made his son get experience elsewhere before joining the firm◼️ How a challenge from his rabbi sparked The 100 Ride movement, which has raised millions for Tomchei Shabbos and Kupat Ha’Ir◼️ The incredible “mini-miracles” that happen every year with the ride from rain holding off until the last second to a postponed ride becoming their best fundraising year ever◼️ Uri’s vision to raise a million dollars annually and launch a kids’ ride to get the next generation involved◼️ Why you don’t need to be a pro cyclist to participate, how the community will help you find a bike, and why you should just “jump in” and register at the100ride.com⏱️ Timestamps00:00 The $5 Million Charity Bike Ride1:00 The Donald Trump Nut & The Parker Pen Hustle3:31 The Audacious Stunt That Landed a 15-Year-Old His Dream Job6:42 The Best Career Advice Came From a Kosher Lunch9:27 From Law School to Partner in 6 Years (Without Advertising)14:04 The $1.5 Million Lesson: “Jump When You Can Jump”18:36 The Craziest Closing: IV Bag and All22:49 What It’s Really Like Working With Family25:12 The Divine Intervention of The 100 Ride33:19 The Dream: A Million Dollars & Kids on Bikes41:37 Your Invitation to Join The Family🔗 Connect with Uri Kirschner LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/uri-kirschner-1275961aa/🔗 Connect with Tuli Kraus X (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/
The Power of Storytelling | How Our Infographics Landed Million Dollar Deals ft. Brian WallaceHow data and storytelling can change lives, or how tragedy can spark faith and purpose?In this episode of the What It Takes podcast, we sit down with Brian Wallace, a master storyteller and the creative force behind NowSourcing.Brian takes us on a wild ride from his completely non-religious upbringing to becoming an observant Jew, a journey shaped by unimaginable personal tragedy. He also pulls back the curtain on his remarkable career, sharing how he helped an NBA player land a $64 million contract using storytelling and data, and how he’s made even something as simple as paint fascinating for global brands.This is a deep, emotional, and inspiring conversation about resilience, faith, and the incredible power of a great story.💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:◼️ Brian’s journey from a non-religious childhood to discovering Orthodox Judaism as an adult◼️ The concept of finding faith through “love” vs. “fear” and how tragedy can become a catalyst for profound change◼️ The heartbreaking story of losing his first child and how that loss built a foundation of unshakable strength◼️ How he helped an NBA player go from a league minimum to a $64 million contract with a “Moneyball”-style infographic◼️ His philosophy that every company is a media company, and why storytelling always beats selling◼️ The story behind his viral Psychology of Color infographic and how it made a paint brand unforgettable◼️ His creative process for turning complex ideas into engaging, shareable content◼️ How to build a network and business rooted in authenticity and real value, not cold outreach◼️ His latest venture, The Innovate Summit, brings innovators together for honest, ego-free conversations⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Meet Brian Wallace: The Master of Story1:26 From Brooklyn to the “City”: A New Yorker’s Origin Story3:22 The Spiritual Search: A Non-Religious Upbringing6:26 The Spectrum of Belief: Love vs. Fear17:45 A Story of Unimaginable Loss21:26 Finding Strength: From Tragedy to a Family of 824:28 The $64 Million Infographic30:47 The “Moneyball” of Basketball36:50 Making Paint Fascinating: The Psychology of Color40:56 Stop Selling, Start Storytelling45:11 The Creative Process: How to Build a Viral Idea48:04 What It Takes: Building a Legacy Without Ego🔗 Connect with Brian Wallace X (Twitter): https://x.com/nowsourcing Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nowsourcing LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nowsourcing/🔗 Connect with Tuli KrausX (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKrausInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/
The Side Hustle That Can Replace Your Income | Building a Career You Actually Love ft. Shaina KerenEver feel stuck in your career, wondering if this is really all there is? In this episode of the What It Takes podcast, host Tuli Kraus sits down with Shaina Keren, a renowned career coach who has helped over a thousand people to find their true potential.Shaina opens up about her own incredible journey from living in a trailer park to becoming a sought-after career strategist and shares raw, practical insights on navigating life’s biggest career questions. Together, they unpack whether college is really worth it, why personality tests often fail, and how to find meaningful, fulfilling work that actually fits you.This is an eye-opening, empowering, and refreshingly honest conversation that will change how you see your career and your purpose.💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:◼️ The surprising truth about whether college is a necessary step or just a “mirage”◼️ Why standard career and personality tests often give terrible advice (like telling someone to be a farmer!)◼️ How to know if you’re in the right career — or if it’s time to pivot◼️ Shaina’s personal journey from a spiritual, out-of-town community to running a thriving coaching business◼️ How the “Ikigai” framework helps you find work that’s fulfilling and financially rewarding◼️ A real-life case study of a recruiter who became a master watchmaker after just one coaching session◼️ Simple steps to test a business idea on the side without spending money◼️ The three most important mindset shifts to make if you’re feeling stuck or unfulfilled at work⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Introduction: Unlocking Your Dream Career1:25 From Trailer Park to Career Coach: Shaina’s Unlikely Beginnings3:50 The Israeli Dream & Building a Location-Independent Business5:32 The College Mirage: Is Higher Education Worth It?8:21 The Entrepreneurial Siblings: Building a Legacy from Scratch9:38 The Superwoman Year: Marriage, Masters, and Motherhood at 2011:48 The Path Not Taken: Why Becoming a Rabbi’s Wife Was a Bad Fit15:17 Why Standard Career Tests Are Setting You Up for Failure17:13 The Daycare Burnout: The Moment That Forced a Career Pivot26:12 The $5,500 Career Transformation: Inside the Rockport Method35:35 Case Study: From Recruiter to Master Watchmaker41:45 3 Steps to Escape a Mediocre Career (Practical Advice)🔗 Connect with Shaina Keren X (Twitter): https://x.com/kerenshaina Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shainakeren LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaina-keren/🔗 Connect with Tuli KrausX (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/
From Face Painting to 7-Figure Design Business CEO featuring Shany KaufmanHow does someone go from painting faces at kids’ parties to running a multi-million-dollar interior design firm?In this episode of the What It Takes podcast, host Tuli Kraus sits down with Shany Kaufman, the powerhouse CEO and mother of eight behind ICO Design Group.Shany shares her incredible, non-traditional journey into the world of design, revealing how one unexpected café project turned into a thriving 13-year business. Together, they talked about the raw realities of entrepreneurship, the power of grit over formal education, and the mindset that turns ordinary beginnings into extraordinary success.This is an inspiring, down-to-earth conversation for anyone who’s ever dreamed of starting from scratch and building something remarkable.💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:◼️ How a simple branding project for a café unexpectedly launched Shany’s career in interior design! Despite having zero prior experience…◼️ Her creative journey from face painting to building a seven-figure business and discovering her true calling◼️ Why Shany believes grit and genuine care matter more than a polished résumé or prestigious degree◼️ Practical advice for aspiring designers, project managers, and procurement specialists on breaking into the industry with no experience◼️ Her “Be a Nudge” philosophy, the power of ambitious persistence to get noticed and land your dream job◼️ How Shany hires based on grit over skill and her unique bathroom design test for candidates◼️ The real behind-the-scenes of business ownership, client management, and leading a creative team◼️ Shany’s pro design hacks you can try at home: dark walls make rooms feel bigger, “reverse crown” molding elevates ceilings, and why your laundry room deserves more love than your kitchen⏱️ Timestamps00:00 From Face Painting to 7-Figure CEO: Meet Shany Kaufman2:25 The Accidental Empire: How a Café Launched a Design Career6:24 Building a Brand from Scratch: Grit, Garbage Dumps & $8K Offices9:09 The Secret Sauce: Blending Interior Design with Powerful Branding11:45 How to Break Into Interior Design (With No Experience)15:36 Sponsor: Blackbird Recruiting & Everyone Needs a Video16:21 The #1 Trait That Gets You Hired (It’s Not What You Think)19:48 Hiring Secrets: Why Grit Beats a Perfect Résumé Every Time25:24 The Rollercoaster Reality of Being a Business Owner30:32 3 Pro Design Hacks to Instantly Transform Your Home🔗 Connect with Shany Kaufman Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ico.design/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shany-kaufman-683b4a78/🔗 Connect with Tuli KrausX (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/
The $150K Powerhouse | Single Mom of 8 & Nonprofit Leader ft. Esther MillerA single mom of eight who's also a high-powered executive and a total powerhouse! In this episode of the What It Takes podcast, host Tuli Kraus sits down with Esther Miller, a force of nature who earns over $150,000 a year as a “polymath” at J Companies and the Executive Director of the nonprofit Aim Higher.Esther takes us on her incredible journey from running a luxury baby clothing business out of her basement to building a career-support nonprofit from the ground up.This conversation is packed with the real talk about balancing a massive family with a demanding career, the hidden struggles of unemployed men over 40, and why giving back became a non-negotiable part of her success.💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:◼️ How Esther Miller manages her time as a single mom of eight while working two demanding jobs (her day starts at 4:40 AM!)◼️ Her unexpected path from law school dreams to becoming the “inspector whisperer” for a Yeshiva's lunch program◼️ The genius marketing move that launched her high-end baby clothing business, which she ran for nearly a decade and sold for a profit◼️ The story of how a $150,000 grant and a five-page document led her to start a nonprofit for single mothers, kicking off her career in the non-profit world◼️ The stark differences she's observed between the “sharing” culture of the corporate world and the more guarded non-profit space◼️ The hidden emotional toll of job loss, especially on men over 40, and why many suffer in silence, afraid to even tell their own families◼️ Her experience being the only woman in a male-dominated office and the hilarious culture shock of her first day (where did all the guys go at 3 PM?)◼️ Why she's a firm believer that full-time remote work can hinder collaboration and why she insists on in-person meetings for Aim Higher candidates◼️ The very real problem of ageism in hiring and the immense value that experienced professionals over 40 bring to a company◼️ A powerful story about community support and the man who started helping single mothers after a life-changing visit to a family living in poverty⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Meet Esther Miller: The $150K/yr Single Mom of 82:04 From Law School Dreams to Yiddishkeit Reality5:27 Breaking Stigmas: Women Making Six Figures7:04 The $2,000 Baby Layette: Building a Business in a Basement11:39 The Pivot: Selling a Business & A Pandemic Startup13:25 The $150K Grant That Started It All18:47 The Hidden Crisis: Men, Ego, and Unemployment23:47 The Non-Profit World vs. Corporate: A Culture Clash28:40 The Day All My Coworkers Vanished at 3 PM34:07 Why I Left Corporate for My Soul39:15 The Final Pitch: Fighting Ageism & Saving Families🔗 Connect with Esther Miller LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/esther-miller-705341190/🔗 Connect with Tuli KrausX (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/
I Was a Failed Entrepreneur (Here's How I Bounced Back ft. David Wanounou)Ever had your first big commission check ripped up right in front of you?In this episode of the What It Takes podcast, host Tuli Kraus sits down with David Wanounou, a seasoned entrepreneur and the CEO of The Trepper Plan, a business consulting company built on real-world grit, not theory.David takes us on a wild ride from his humble beginnings in Brooklyn (where his first job might’ve been “child labor”) to his rollercoaster journey in real estate, sales, and corporate America. He shares the tough lessons that shaped his “no excuses” mindset, from getting crushed early in his career to turning those setbacks into fuel for growth.This episode is packed with raw insights, real business wisdom, and the kind of perspective only earned through decades of hustle and hard lessons.💡 In This Episode, We Discuss:◼️ From his first “child labor” job filing papers to hustling in real estate without a car.◼️ The brutal story of having his first big commission check ripped up right in front of him.◼️ A simple but powerful business principle he learned from a retail client! The “Where’s The Sun?” lesson that still guides him today.◼️ How working relentlessly at IDT, even without immediate raises, built his skills and eventually helped him buy a house through stock options.◼️ Why you need to think of yourself as the CEO of your own career and stop waiting for someone else to make you successful.◼️ The importance of recognizing when it’s time to walk away from a comfortable, high-paying job to grow.◼️ How working for difficult but brilliant bosses became a crash course in next-level business thinking.◼️ His customized, non-cookie-cutter approach to business coaching that focuses on individual strengths and weaknesses - The Trepper Plan Philosophy.◼️ His controversial take on whether college is always worth it, and what truly builds value in the marketplace.◼️ The mindset shift every professional needs to take control of their own destiny.⏱️ Timestamps00:00 From Brooklyn Beginnings to a Ripped-Up Check7:10 The “Where’s The Sun?” Business Masterclass13:11 Hustle, Medical Billing & The 36-Hour Shift🔗 Connect with David WanounouX (Twitter): https://x.com/wanounou LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-wanounou-4974774🔗 Connect with Tuli KrausX (Twitter): https://x.com/TuliKraus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbird.recruiting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuli-kraus/