Episodit

  • Do you have what it takes to be a solopreneur? We dive into balancing professional and personal responsibilities, arguing that distractions in this day and age can derail your progress more than ever. So how do you do maintain a successful business as a solopreneur?

    If you've ever wondered what is truly necessary to make it successfully as a solopreneur, take it from two guys who scaled their companies from the ground up to multi-million dollar companies: these four must-have traits need to be at the top of your list.

    Key Takeaways:

    Why businesses are much harder to maintain than ever before4 must-have traits solopreneurs possess in order to succeedHow to maintain self discipline in your daily lifeGrow a successful business that scales with these main tips

    Drawing wisdom from our mastermind group, we highlight the value of setting boundaries and prioritizing family time. Sometimes, stepping back to take care of your health and relationships can actually propel you forward faster. We'll also show you how a strong support network can keep you on track and help maintain your focus.

    Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://isibrotherhood.com/community
    LinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/group

    Connect with Big A and Wally:
    View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.com
    The ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletter
    Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
    Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

  • “If you want time and freedom, you have to lead others to get there.” Seth Buechley joins us to define the crux of business failure and crappy leadership. There is truth that you can faster alone, but you can go farther together.

    Today we talk about practical positives to delegating and how to delegate WELL. We need to create systems and processes, define specific Key Result Areas for our employees, and cultivate a mindset that serves the success of everyone. We cannot scale without empowering our people well.

    How do successful businesses scale? Long term benefits of entrusting tasks to capable team membersHow to implement KRAs wellRecipes for burnout and failure

    Discover how effective delegation can prevent burnout and transform your business from merely surviving to truly thriving. For solopreneurs and small business owners, we address the tricky balance between managing revenue growth and navigating the risks of hiring and delegation, sharing personal strategies and anecdotes for transitioning to effective leadership and management.

    Finally, we delve into building a business that operates independently of its founder. Drawing on principles from John Warrillow's "Built to Sell," we discuss structuring your business with the potential for future sale in mind, even if selling isn't your immediate goal.

    Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/community
    LinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/group

    Connect with Seth Buechley:
    Seth's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-buechley/
    Seth Buechley is a serial entrepreneur and business founder who has achieved several multi-million dollar exits. He is the host of the Business Done Right Podcast, which seeks to help faith-driven entrepreneurs build valuable businesses. His book, "Ambition: Leading with Gratitude," was written as a leadership manifesto to help driven people understand why they struggle to find satisfaction and what they can do about it.

    Connect with Big A and Wally:
    View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/
    The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climb
    Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
    Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

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  • Do you know how to celebrate? On our 100th episode, we share transformative stories about significant financial windfalls that taught us the power of celebration. Discover why celebrating your wins, big or small, can skyrocket your motivation and satisfaction in both business and personal life.

    Raised to remain humble and private, we initially found it challenging to share our successes openly. However, joining communities like Iron Sharpens Iron (ISI) helped us embrace a culture of celebration and transparency that spurred on us to true success.

    Key Takeaways:

    The best spaces to share your wins in business–and how it's hard to findWhy it's important to celebrate your wins in businessIdeas and tips on how to celebrate wellThe profound influence of giving back through personal gestures

    We delve into how supportive environments can uplift each other, making it easier to share even smaller, meaningful victories. Reflecting on cultural norms and personal upbringing, we discuss how shifting our mindset about celebration can positively impact our overall happiness.

    From repairing strained relationships to achieving business milestones, celebrating wins isn't just about the big moments. We explore practical ways to commemorate your successes and promote a generous attitude of giving back through personal gestures and charitable contributions.

    Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/community
    LinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/group

    Connect with Big A and Wally:
    View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/
    The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climb
    Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
    Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

  • "You've been selling to the kitchen table, and you need to be selling to the board room." When the real estate market came to a grinding halt during the COVID-19 pandemic, Bobby, a seasoned real estate developer, faced unprecedented challenges. Listen to his raw and emotional recount of navigating through financial turmoil, making tough decisions like laying off a lot of his staff, and the immense weight of responsibility he felt for his employees and their families.

    Bobby's story isn't just about a business struggle; it's a heartfelt journey of resilience and leadership in the face of adversity.

    Key Takeaways:

    How COVID-19 took hotel occupancy from 80% to less than 10% and what Bobby did about itThe best way to approach a "Black Swan" business catastropheHow do you build relationships with the right market segment of investors? Bobby needs to go BIG on selling to larger investors than he's ever sold to before


    Despite exhausting initial investor funds, Bobby underscores the importance of maintaining momentum and refining strategies to attract private equity investors. He shares the significance of building a robust investor base and the challenges of transitioning from small to larger investors, all while staying true to mission-driven goals.

    Get valuable insights on the delicate balance between mission and profit, the art of crafting a compelling elevator pitch, and the nuances of investor relations in this episode of THE FORGE.

    Join the Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/community

    Connect with Anthony Witt: witthouse.com or anthonywitt.com
    Anthony Witt is a professional licensed counselor and a business owner with a deep understanding of how entrepreneurship impacts personal health and those around them. Having bought, sold, and started multiple businesses, he has gained valuable
    experience at the intersection of personal health and business. His belief that "a healthy business owner creates a healthy business" underscores his approach to helping entrepreneurs thrive.

    Connect with Bret Barnhart:
    Barnhartexcavating.com
    Bret’s Calendar Link
    Bret’s Linkedin
    Bret Barnhart, Jr. is the fourth generation in his family to start his own excavation company. He began Bret Barnhart Excavating (BBE) in 2002 with $1,500, a single backhoe and truck, and a trailer. Since then, BBE has grown to an entire fleet of heavy machinery and trucks, averages just under 20 employees, and grosses $4mil annually. Being specialized, along with having a personal mentor and joining a mastermind, has helped shape not only Bret's company but also himself as well. Bret and his wife Crystal have been married for 16 years and have two children, Cole and Adelyn.

    Connect with Big A and Wally:
    View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/
    Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
    Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/
    What Do I Want Challenge: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/whatdoiwantchallenge

  • "Work to find the truth." Do you ever harbor bitterness or apathy toward your wife for not giving support in building your business? Is she often more afraid for the future when discussing business ventures?

    Big A and Wally recount times in both their lives when their wives didn't want anything to do with the business–and how they got through those seasons. Big A confesses a frustrating disagreement with Robin that left him unable to focus on his business, while Wally explains how Sonia's last-minute stress before his travels affected his crucial client meetings.

    We dig deep into how personal growth and faith journeys shape our experiences, highlighting the importance of acknowledging the unseen efforts of our spouses. Whether your partner is a homemaker or a career individual, their role is indispensable.

    Key Takeaways:

    What happens when we don't prioritize our wife above our businessRealistic conversations to have with your wifeWhat your wife really wants from you when you're running a businessThe crucial role boundaries play for an entrepreneur's wife

    Join us as we turn the tables and reveal how your marital strife may be the hidden culprit behind those off days at work. We underscore why cultivating a strong, supportive relationship at home could be the ultimate productivity hack for your business success.

    Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/community
    LinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/group

    Connect with Big A and Wally:
    View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/
    The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climb
    Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
    Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

  • "If you’re facing financial problems, relationship problems, starting your business… what do you do to simplify your life?" Charlie Cichetti shares his transformative, chaotic journey from a tech start up to a successful business exit. How did he simplify his life from starting his business to selling it?

    Key Takeaways:

    How do you get rid of the fear that if you don't follow the next fad, you'll lose your customers? How do you let go of opportunities when you're too busy to do everything? Charlie's crucial decisions that lead to starting a business in 2008 and then trying to sell it in 2023When is the right time to sell your business?

    Charlie opens up about his battles with cash flow issues and toxic partnerships, sharing how mentors and the Iron Sharpens Iron (ISI) community provided crucial support. He teaches us about resilience and the power of staying focused on our unique paths amidst FOMO.

    Our discussion wraps up with insights into creating financial security, setting clear boundaries, and building a leadership team that shares your company's vision. Don't miss this episode filled with practical strategies for achieving entrepreneurial success and personal growth!

    Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/community
    LinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/group

    Connect with Charlie Cichetti:
    Green Building Matters Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-green-building-matters-podcast-with-charlie-cichetti/id1346854349
    Charlie's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charliecichetti/

    Charlie advocates for LEED and the green building movement to thousands of people monthly as they tune in to listen to his weekly podcast, Green Building Matters. Charlie Cichetti is truly a green social entrepreneur who is motivated by elevating people and the industry to be the best they can be!

    Connect with Big A and Wally:
    View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/
    The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climb
    Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
    Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

  • "It’s not too late going forward, just focus on what’s ahead of you, not what’s behind you." Guys think about four things: sex, finances, time, and relationships. We're skipping over sex today to discuss HOW to think about the other 3 on the list to become a successful man who adds significance and value to the world around him.

    Hear firsthand how regular conversations and planning with your wife can reduce stress, foster harmony, and reveal unexpected opportunities for more time for what matters.

    Key Takeaways:

    What turning to a vice will do for youWhat do we do with our anxieties? How to move forward from past mistakesHow to manage your time well


    We reflect on the early, challenging days of starting a business, and the powerful role of faith and community support. A heartwarming story of family prayer and an anonymous act of generosity highlights the importance of prioritizing relationships and time. We delve into strategies for balancing personal time, nurturing relationships, and achieving both success and significance. Tune in for actionable insights and join our ISI Iron Sharpens Iron community for ongoing support and engagement.

    Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/community
    LinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/group

    Connect with Big A and Wally:
    View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/
    The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climb
    Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
    Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

    Episode 50: Is a Sexless Marriage Really a Marriage?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/view-from-the-top/id1649249589?i=1000628482116

  • How can we effectively sift through well-meaning advice to find what truly aligns with God's will for us?

    Through shared personal experiences, we highlight the necessity of being open and vulnerable to receive quality guidance. Your trainer at the gym might not need to be a believer to advise you on something, but should your trusted advisors be believers?

    And what if you don't want advice at all and would rather just figure it out yourself?

    Key Takeaways:

    Criteria for advisors vs. trusted advisorsShould you take advice from nonbelievers? Do your core values really make sense for real life? Are you going to the right people to help keep you accountable?

    This episode dives deep into the practicalities of seeking spiritual guidance, emphasizing reliance on God over mere human advice. But how do we know when our advisors are giving us biblical advice?

    Join the Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/community

    Connect with Anthony Witt: witthouse.com or anthonywitt.com
    Anthony Witt is a professional licensed counselor and a business owner with a deep understanding of how entrepreneurship impacts personal health and those around them. Having bought, sold, and started multiple businesses, he has gained valuable
    experience at the intersection of personal health and business. His belief that "a healthy business owner creates a healthy business" underscores his approach to helping entrepreneurs thrive.

    Connect with Bret Barnhart:
    Barnhartexcavating.com
    Bret’s Calendar Link
    Bret’s Linkedin
    Bret Barnhart, Jr. is the fourth generation in his family to start his own excavation company. He began Bret Barnhart Excavating (BBE) in 2002 with $1,500, a single backhoe and truck, and a trailer. Since then, BBE has grown to an entire fleet of heavy machinery and trucks, averages just under 20 employees, and grosses $4mil annually. Being specialized, along with having a personal mentor and joining a mastermind, has helped shape not only Bret's company but also himself as well. Bret and his wife Crystal have been married for 16 years and have two children, Cole and Adelyn.

    Connect with Big A and Wally:
    View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/
    Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
    Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/
    What Do I Want Challenge: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/whatdoiwantchallenge

  • "If I don’t have the right resources and the right people around me, I tend to start making decisions that are outside the scope of my knowledge base… that gets really risky."

    There's always a chance you might get stuck, no matter where you are in your business. You can get stuck when you're starting off, you can get stuck with team members that just won't move the needle, and you can get stuck when you've arrived at the view from the top.

    What do we do when we don't know what to do next? Big A and Wally both expose their own difficulties when trudging through unknown waters of their business and how they were able to keep moving forward.

    Key Takeaways:

    3 reasons you're stuck and how to get unstuckHow do you deal with fear of failure? Could this be holding you back? What Harry Potter has to do with businessHow risk plays a part in moving forward with business decisions

    This episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiring stories to help you conquer your business growth challenges.

    Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/community
    LinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/group

    Connect with Big A and Wally:
    View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/
    The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climb
    Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
    Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

  • "The numbers tell the story of where you've been, where you are, and where you wanna go.” How do you define "success" in your own life? Are you looking to break even, pay yourself, or reach that million dollar mark annually? Are these what truly defines "business success"? Defining success for yourself is key to building a business that works for you, your team, and your customers.

    What if redefining success could completely transform your life? Learn the four benchmarks we created that define success for our lives on today's episode.

    Key Takeaways:

    Don't get distracted by everythingIs profitability the only benchmark to define success? How can you stay profitable? The two factors to customer satisfaction

    Hear why knowing your numbers and having accountability partners can make or break your business, especially if you're a financial advisor or CPA. We emphasize the critical role of customer satisfaction and product quality, both of which directly influence your business's reputation and employee retention. By openly addressing financial issues and always striving for customer satisfaction, you'll build a solid foundation for long-term success.

    Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/community
    LinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/group
    Local Roundtable Events: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/isiroundtable

    Connect with Big A and Wally:
    View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/
    The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climb
    Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
    Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

  • Optimist vs. Pessimist vs. Realist: the game is on. “You’re not going to change who you are at your core, but... you can train your brain to create new habits.” Are you an optimist, pessimist, or a realist? Why does this matter in business, and how can it help be a better leader?

    You'll hear opposing viewpoints today as Big A and Wally discuss the differences and strengths of optimists, realists, and pessimists. Does one "win" over the other? We discuss the importance of blending different perspectives
    —whether you're a galvanizer or deeply analytical—to make more informed and balanced decisions as a leader in business.

    Key Takeaways:

    How to leverage the strengths and weaknesses you haveHow does stress play into your core leanings?Optimist vs. Pessimist vs. Realist.... is there a clear winner?Big A is an optimist, Wally is a realist–so it's going down on today's episode

    Our conversation shifts gears as we dissect the balance between optimism, pessimism, and realism. We delve into how being analytical can sometimes be mistaken for pessimism and explore the strengths each outlook brings, particularly in professional and personal settings.

    Whether you're fostering optimism in your family or balancing realism and positivity in your business, we offer actionable advice to create a supportive environment for your company culture. Join us for a deep dive into the power of perspective and the nuanced interplay between optimism and pessimism.

    Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/community
    LinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/group
    Local Roundtable Events: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/isiroundtable

    Connect with Big A and Wally:
    View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/
    The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climb
    Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
    Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

  • The key to the future is our past. As the leader of your business and your family, have you considered the gravity of honoring your past? Not just our wonderful American heritage, but memories of your past mistakes and successes, too?

    Why would two business guys care about writing Scripture on the studs of their home or going back to the exact spot where one of them got saved at 8 years old? We discuss how building a legacy by celebrating wins and setting up boundaries after our mistakes lays a foundation for your future family values.

    We answer a question you may never have thought about before: why should men care about building "memorials" and tributes to our past?

    Key Takeaways:

    What the Bible says about remembranceWhat in the world is an Ebenezer and why does it matter? Ideas for family traditions and how to impact your kids and grandkidsHow to foster connection with your family and friends

    From sharing captivating stories with grandkids to reflecting on the significance of holidays, this episode is a heartfelt tribute to the moments that shape our lives and the legacy we leave for future generations.

    Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/community
    LinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/group
    Local Roundtable Events: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/isiroundtable

    Connect with Big A and Wally:
    View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/
    The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climb
    Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
    Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

  • “The mess of wrong timing is nearly always better than holding it [in].” Has it been a struggle wondering how to bring up certain issues with your wife? Do you ever wonder whether you should let an issue go or really hash it out? Today the four of us in THE FORGE explore how different couples manage difficult conversations, highlighting the importance of timing, patience, and humor in maintaining a healthy relationship.

    Key Takeaways:

    How to communicate effectively with your personality typeHow to make up after an argumentWhen do you "let go" of an issue or when do you address it? The culprit that starts an argument

    Ever wondered how addressing conflicts head-on can transform your marriage? Join us in this enlightening episode of View From the Top, as we equip you with essential strategies for navigating difficult conversations in your relationship. Discover how to effectively talk with your wife through real-life examples and expert advice from Anthony Witt and Brian Lawrence.

    Connect with Anthony Witt:
    witthouse.com or anthonywitt.com
    Anthony Witt is a professional licensed counselor and a business owner with a deep understanding of how entrepreneurship impacts personal health and those around them. Having bought, sold, and started multiple businesses, he has gained valuable
    experience at the intersection of personal health and business. His belief that "a healthy business owner creates a healthy business" underscores his approach to helping entrepreneurs thrive.

    Connect with Brian Lawrence:
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianelawrence/
    https://www.winsightmasterminds.com/
    Brian is the owner and founder of Winsight Masterminds. Leading a business can be overwhelming. "As an entrepreneur with a family, I know how important it is to surround yourself with others who understand what you're going through. Since 2016 I've led over 2,500+ mastermind calls and worked with hundreds of business owners who don't want to leave their success up to chance."

    Connect with Big A and Wally:
    View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/
    The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climb
    Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
    Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/
    Iron Sharpens Iron Community: viewfromthetop.com/community

  • "We can’t control anything… except our attitude–that we are in 100% percent control of.” Can everything truly be figured out? Big A and Wally have their own opinions about whether changing your mindset can change the way you figure out your biggest issues.

    Ever considered how persistence and creativity can turn seemingly insurmountable obstacles into opportunities? Big A tells how he transformed a burned-down building into a bustling business space.

    Key Takeaways:

    Is everything really "figureoutable"?How mindset can help you fix your biggest problemsCan you really do anything you want to do?How to face the issues you don't think you'll ever get out of


    We discuss how faith and collective support can turn challenges into growth opportunities, and hear a poignant family moment where faith and prayer led to unexpected financial relief. Join us for an episode brimming with actionable insights, personal stories, and an optimistic outlook designed to help you navigate life's challenges with a solution-oriented approach.

    Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/community
    LinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/group
    Local Roundtable Events: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/isiroundtable

    Connect with Big A and Wally:
    View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/
    The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climb
    Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
    Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

  • "You’re not asking for someone to make your decisions for you, you’re saying 'I need more information than I can get on my own.'" When you become a successful business owner, you'll find you need unique perspectives more than ever because your decisions are more important than ever.

    Key Takeaways:

    Why success and loneliness often go togetherHow to make decisions that don't leave your business or family in a bad placeWhy do successful business owners look for deeper relationships? How to shorten the learning curve on running a successful business

    Through personal stories, we reveal the struggles of feeling alone despite being surrounded by money and success, and how finding a community of understanding peers can offer much-needed perspective and actionable advice.

    Leadership isn't just about making decisions, it's about how important those decisions turn out to be when one is poorly made. We discuss the challenges of solopreneurship and the pitfalls of trying to do everything on your own–and where that often leads you.

    Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/community
    LinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/group
    Local Roundtable Events: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/isiroundtable

    Connect with Big A and Wally:
    View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/
    The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climb
    Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
    Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

  • “We’re not making the time to do the things that matter the most.” Why do relationships matter more than anything else in life? Big A and Wally unpack the profound significance of nurturing connections across all aspects of life—from business, to marriage, to best friends. We share our personal highs and lows in building these meaningful relationships, and Big A opens up about his friend telling him he didn't like Big A at first and how they eventually became best friends.

    Key Takeaways:

    Steps to building the best relationships of your lifeWhat NOT to do in relationshipsWhy you don't have any real guy best friendsWhat it means to be a servant leader


    We also discuss the evolving nature of marital disagreements, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection and open communication. Wrapping up, we stress the significance of a spiritual foundation, prioritizing family, and being a servant leader to ensure that professional pursuits do not come at the expense of our most cherished relationships.

    Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/community
    LinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/group
    Local Roundtable Events: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/isiroundtable

    Connect with Big A and Wally:
    View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/
    The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climb
    Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
    Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

  • "I wanna be there for my kids, and at the same time I wanna be there for my office, my team…I wanna make a living.” There is true hardship in the struggle to make things happen at your business and to be there for your kids. You do not want to wake up one day and live in a house full of strangers, but at the same time you have responsibilities to provide for your family. How do we do both well?

    Key Takeaways:

    Ask your child THIS question to help you set the best boundariesHow to deal with the guilt of being a business owner and fatherThe "no fails" that will make your family more intentional with each otherDo sport events really matter to your kids?


    We discuss practical strategies to set boundaries, like turning off work phones over the weekend and involving family in understanding work commitments. Our conversation highlights the significance of open dialogue, apologizing, and seeking forgiveness when necessary.

    Big A and Wall, along with Anthony Witt and Brett Barnhart, dive into the multifaceted challenges of balancing work and family life. We get honest about our intentions with our kids, how hard it can be to make things happen, and the very best strategies for having real relationships with your kids.

    Join our conversation on our LinkedIn Group: www.viewfromthetop.com/group
    Become a member of the ISI Community at: http://viewfromthetop.com/community

    Connect with Anthony Witt:
    witthouse.com or anthonywitt.com
    Anthony Witt is a professional licensed counselor and a business owner with a deep understanding of how entrepreneurship impacts personal health and those around them. Having bought, sold, and started multiple businesses, he has gained valuable
    experience at the intersection of personal health and business. His belief that "a healthy business owner creates a healthy business" underscores his approach to helping entrepreneurs thrive.

    Connect with Bret Barnhart:
    Bret’s Calendar Link: https://calendly.com/barnhartexcavating/view-from-the-top
    Bret’s Linkedin
    Bret Barnhart, Jr. is the fourth generation in his family to start his own excavation company. He began Bret Barnhart Excavating (BBE) in 2002 with $1,500, a single backhoe and truck, and a trailer. Since then, BBE has grown to an entire fleet of heavy machinery and trucks, averages just under 20 employees, and grosses $4mil annually.

    Connect with Big A and Wally:
    View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/
    The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climb
    Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
    Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

  • "I wanted genuine relationships with people where it’s okay to say 'I’m not okay.'" Leadership comes with a side of solitude, and it takes a village—or in this case, a mastermind—to fill that void with true camaraderie and counsel. We're peeling back the curtain on the raw, unfiltered experiences that shape us, from the loneliness at the top to the joy of hitting those major milestones.

    Key Takeaways:

    What Big A thought a mastermind was until he joined oneWhat a mastermind is and why it mattersHow it's different from your churchWhat does an authentic relationship look like?


    "I was starving to death for authentic relationships." This episode isn't just a reflection but an open invitation to like-minded Christian businessmen ready to amplify every aspect of their lives. It's a testament to the power of authentic relationships and the courage borrowed from peers. Whether you're searching for connection, eager for growth, or both, discover how the ISI Brotherhood’s culture of continuous improvement and shared success can help you carve out a purposeful, fulfilling path. Join us for a conversation that's as transformative as it is enlightening, right here where iron sharpens iron.

    Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/community
    LinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/group
    Local Roundtable Events: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/isiroundtable

    Connect with Big A and Wally:
    View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/
    The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climb
    Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
    Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

  • "Being a guest on other people's shows–it just builds this great relationship with members of our community that then go and inspire." Listen in to some of the stop strategies for podcasting with our esteemed co-host, Alex Sanfilippo, founder of PodMatch.com and 2023 People's Choice Podcast Award for Podcasting Influencer of the Year.

    Alex's insider knowledge unwraps the step by step strategies for enriching both your business and your personal life in podcasting. We delve into the art of making the most out of podcast guesting opportunities, discussing the surprising impact of storytelling on SEO and the lasting legacy of our shared wisdom. We share valuable tips and strategies for engaging your audience, crafting a powerful call to action, and preparing for meaningful interviews.

    Key Takeaways:

    Alex's extreme approach to taming his workaholic tendenciesWhy is podcast guesting important for building a brand and business? Should you be a guest or start your own podcast first? How to set yourself to be the best podcast guest

    For podcasters and aspiring guests alike, we introduce PodMatch as a resource to help you connect with like-minded professionals, particularly in the Christian business community. So join our conversation, apply the insights, and watch as both your business and personal life flourish.

    Connect with Alex Sanfilippo:
    Podmatch.com/free
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexsanfilippo/

    Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/community
    LinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/group
    Local Roundtable Events: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/isiroundtable

    Connect with Big A and Wally:
    View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/
    The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climb
    Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
    Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/

  • "If you're a solopreneur, and you're experiencing burnout, you are going to make a mistake–and it's going to cost you dearly." Are you thinking of selling your business? Should you? Where do you start, what happens if you do? All these questions and more are answered on today's episode.

    How does the sale of your business help you accomplish your longterm vision? This is the question we dissect. We want you to ask the right questions when you're thinking of making this big decision.

    Key Takeaways:

    Lies you might be telling yourself when you wonder if you should sellHow does the sale of my business help me accomplish my longterm vision? Key questions to ask yourself when you're considering sellingNext steps in selling your business

    There are many reasons why you might want to sell your business. Kevin's personal journey of selling his business was long and arduous and full of experience that overflows in his advice today. We delve into the nuances of preparing for the future, emphasizing the power of a 'freedom fund' and the significance of your reason for selling.

    Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/community
    LinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/group
    Local Roundtable Events: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/isiroundtable

    Connect with Big A and Wally:
    View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/
    The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climb
    Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
    Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/