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In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I run into Mike Wynn from Greens during First Tuesdays at Short Story. Most people know the name Green’s Feed and Seed, but Mike explains that Greens has grown into much more, including Ace Hardware, power equipment, and full contractor support through partnerships like Thomas Do It Center. They’ve expanded their services to include building materials, roofing, windows, and more, all under the Greens Group umbrella. Mike started in landscaping and now focuses on outside sales, visiting customers directly to help with whatever they need on-site. He tells me about their new Green’s Supply Depot in Parkersburg, located in the old Kmart, offering everything from hardware to firearms. Other locations include Big Chimney and Ripley, which will soon become another Greens Ace Hardware. When I ask about sales advice, Mike keeps it simple—show up, network, and meet people. I agree. It’s not called net-sitting or net-standing—it’s networking.

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I explain the difference between outcome goals and process goals and why that shift matters. Outcome goals—like hitting a revenue target or gaining followers—are outside our control and can lead to burnout when we don’t meet them. But process goals—like posting two videos a week or making five prospect calls a day—are within our control and help us build daily wins. I talk about how tying your identity to outcomes can damage your mindset, but focusing on consistent actions keeps you grounded and moving forward. I recommend books like Atomic Habits, The Compound Effect, and How to Fail at Almost Everything and Still Win Big to go deeper. My advice is to pick a process goal this week, track it, and celebrate it every day. That’s how you protect your mental health, stay consistent, and build a business that lasts.

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I talk with Roy Bird, a boiler mechanic with over 30 years of experience. He explains his work, which involves maintaining boilers that generate steam for industries like hospitals and oil processing plants. Roy shares how he got into this field at 14 and transitioned from HVAC to working with boilers after realizing he wasn’t keen on crawling through attics. Nine years ago, he started his own business, Olson Boiler HVAC Services, and talks about the fears he faced when leaving a steady job. He emphasizes the challenges of being your own boss, particularly having hundreds of bosses—your clients—and the long hours that come with building a business. Roy’s advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to prepare thoroughly before starting—make sure you have the necessary licenses, insurance, and financial support. His motto is simple: treat others well, and good things will come back to you.

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I share how easy it is to start creating video content for social media using just your phone. I talk about why video is the most effective way to connect with people online and how even small business owners who aren’t familiar with TikTok or Instagram can benefit from it. I break down two simple formats to get started: hook and takeaway, and Q&A. I explain how to come up with hooks, deliver useful takeaways, and answer common questions from your industry. I give practical tips on lighting, background, posture, and speaking clearly. I remind listeners that it doesn’t have to be perfect—just hit record, try a few takes, and post. A short 30-second video can go a long way, and with a little effort, you can create a full month of content in just a couple of hours. If someone wants a more polished look, I’m happy to help, but the most important thing is to start.

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I talk with Sean Hornbuckle, who’s dedicated to making life better for families, small business owners, and investors through retirement planning and wealth management. He explains that his approach is all about the big picture, helping clients plan for the long-term and create strategies that minimize taxes and ensure financial security. Since 2015, Sean has been running a practice in Huntington, focusing on guiding individuals and businesses toward better financial futures. We discuss the importance of networking, and Sean emphasizes how small business owners play a crucial role in lifting up the community, especially in regions where large industries may not always be present. He’s passionate about connecting people and helping each other thrive. Outside of his practice, Sean stays active in his community, coaching basketball, staying involved in legislative work, and balancing his personal life with his family. His hustle is a great example of how hard work and building meaningful relationships can drive success—not just in business, but in life.

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I talk with Joey Crookshanks at Meet Up 64 about his business, Tailgator Outdoors. He’s created a product that turns a Yeti-style cooler into a beverage dispenser, allowing people to keep mixed drinks separate from the rest of the cooler’s contents. He tells me the idea came from wanting a way for him and his wife to enjoy different drinks from the same cooler. This isn’t his first invention—he worked with Marshall and the Robert C. Byrd Institute in 2020, received grant funding, and sold a previous product to a company in Columbus before moving back to West Virginia. He explains the difference between a full patent and a patent pending, and how he’s revisiting that earlier project. Joey says he’s driven by everyday inconveniences and enjoys solving problems through engineering. He balances this creative work with a full-time job as a civil engineer and uses his Marshall connections to secure support and funding. He reminds me that building a product is about solving a real problem and knowing the right people. You can check out his product at tailgatoroutdoors.com.