Archives: Episodes

In today’s episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I’m with Will McCormick at Up Next Charlie West. We’re discussing productivity. Will defines productivity as working towards a goal with a clear path, not just busywork. He explains that being busy is often about going through the motions, while productivity involves setting valuable appointments and preparing in advance. We talk about the tendency for people to show off how busy they are, but emphasize working smarter. Will advises setting benchmarks and deadlines to achieve long-term goals and stresses continuous growth. We also discuss the importance of collaboration and inspiring others to join your vision by making them feel invested. Will offers his help to anyone needing advice, highlighting his passion for connecting with people.

Today’s episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers is with Tony Brown from KDE Technology. Tony’s hustle involves offering business support through digital design and marketing, helping Charleston and West Virginia businesses thrive. They’ve recently moved into a new 1600 square foot space at 111 Hale Street, providing co-working space and hosting community events. KDE started seven years ago with just two people and now has a team of ten, showing that building a business takes time and effort. Tony highlights that many local businesses are skilled in their trade but need help with the business side, which KDE provides. He discusses the challenge of visibility in today’s market, believing it takes about 25 contacts to make an impact. Their co-op space offers office facilities and training, while their business incubator provides comprehensive support for new businesses. To reach KDE, visit https://kde.technology/

Today on the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I talk with Hunter Wilkes at DT Prime on Capitol Street. Hunter is about to graduate from Charleston Catholic High School and plans to study business and finance at the University of Kentucky. We discuss the difference between being busy and being productive, emphasizing the importance of doing worthwhile work. Hunter shares his strategies for time management and goal-setting, stressing the need to break down long-term goals into manageable steps and avoid procrastination. He highlights the importance of having a supportive network and a common purpose when working with others. Our conversation provides valuable insights into staying productive and achieving goals after school.

Today, I talk with Hunter Ferrari, a real estate investor focused on rentals. Hunter started his company in August 2020 and quickly expanded, despite initial challenges with securing financing. He manages long-term rentals, a couple of Airbnbs, and is currently focused on mid-term rentals. Hunter values the freedom of entrepreneurship, avoiding the 9-to-5 grind, and enjoys the flexibility to spend time with his family. He admits to struggling with routines and prefers a task-focused approach, tackling big jobs first. We discuss the importance of systems and delegation, with Hunter aiming to establish clear processes in 2024. He’s also on the lookout for new property deals, always hustling for growth.

On today’s episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I’m chatting with Sam Wilkes, an environmental scientist and project manager with the Thrasher Group, to discuss productivity. Sam explains that productivity is about getting things done efficiently and effectively, distinguishing it from merely being busy. He highlights the importance of delegation, matching tasks with team strengths, and planning for long-term goals, which is crucial in environmental science where projects like permitting and site remediation take time. Sam advises embracing new challenges and continuously learning, as the field requires adaptability due to its ever-changing nature. He also stresses the value of idea-sharing within a team to uncover the best solutions. Our conversation underscores that true productivity involves strategic planning, collaboration, and a commitment to efficiency.

In this episode of Kanawha Valley Hustlers, I meet Kim Knopf, a franchise business consultant organizing webinars on franchise opportunities. You can find out more and register here: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_85jucX3PQTe5lh3dM5gVQg

We discuss how franchises offer proven systems and stability, making the entrepreneurial journey less daunting. Kim’s background includes running a successful mattress business for 35 years, and she now helps others invest in their futures. The ideal audience for her webinars includes those in the signage or marketing space looking to diversify their services. Kim believes the franchising market in West Virginia is promising. She advises aspiring business owners to network and stay informed about industry trends. Kim’s passion for helping people find the right franchise opportunities is clear.