Ted speaks with Gonzalo Tellez and Anthony Ortega, founders of Viotell Metal Concepts, about their innovative approach to the roofing industry. They discuss the evolution of roofing from a purely functional aspect to an art form that incorporates design and collaboration with contractors and architects. The importance of a strong work ethic, the advantages of being an immigrant in business, and the significance of creating a legacy for future generations are also highlighted. The conversation emphasizes fostering a culture of innovation and problem-solving within their team, showcasing how they have transformed their business into a specialist provider for high-end clients.

TOPICS DISCUSSED

• 01:10 Introductions
• 03:40 Innovating the Roofing Industry
• 07:55 The Art of Roofing
• 11:35 The American Dream
• 14:05 Evolving from Roofers to Specialists
• 19:50 Fostering a Culture of Innovation
• 23:25 The Pivotal Project: A Turning Point
• 25:15 Risk-Taking and Personal Growth
• 27:10 Building a Supportive Team Culture
• 30:00 Exciting New Projects and Challenges
• 32:00 Investing in Advanced Technology
• 35:30 Focusing on Residential Over Commercial
• 37:55 High-End Commercial Projects
• 39:00 The Journey of Persistence
• 42:30 Expanding into New Markets
• 45:50 Trends in the Roofing Industry

CONNECT WITH GUEST

Anthony Ortega & Gonzalo Tellez

• Website
• Youtube
• Instagram

KEY QUOTES FROM EPISODE

• "Collaboration with contractors is crucial."
• "Failures can lead to unexpected solutions."
• "A mindset is lifelong."

Ted speaks with Paul Kropp of Bakes & Kropp. From navigating the depths of a recession to the pinnacles of the luxury cabinetry market, Ted and Paul recount the genesis and evolution of his partnership at Bakes & Kropp. Their story is one of synergy, born from shared ambition and forged through the trials of building a brand. Inspired by European travels and architectural marvels, they strategized their expansion, meticulously ensuring consistent excellence across each showroom. Beyond physical locations, their focus extended to cultivating a confident sales team through rigorous training. Through anecdotes of unique, handcrafted projects, they highlight the cornerstone of their success: enduring client relationships. Confronting the headwinds of European competition, their narrative underscores the constant need for innovation and a clearly articulated value proposition in the ever-evolving landscape of luxury design.

TOPICS DISCUSSED

• 01:10 The Birth of Bakes and Kropp: A Partnership Formed
• 02:45 Navigating Business During a Recession
• 06:35 Challenges of Expansion and Consistency
• 09:30 Building a Brand: From Product to Identity
• 10:35 Synergy in Business: The Power of Partnership
• 12:45 Building a Confident Sales Culture and Training New Team Members for Success
• 15:45 Working with High End Clients
• 17:30 Unique Projects and Client Relationships
• 22:15 Marketing and Brand Building in a Competitive Landscape
• 24:45 Innovating and Adapting to Market Changes
• 31:00 Value Proposition Against European Competition

CONNECT WITH GUEST

Bakes & Kropp

• Website
• LinkedIn
• Instagram

KEY QUOTES FROM EPISODE

• "You learn a lot during tough times."
• "Good people are key to maintaining consistency."
• "You have to have that winning attitude."

Ted speaks with Alexander Rokoff of Rokoff Studio who shares his artistic journey, influenced by his family's artistic background and his father's legacy. He discusses his transition from cartooning to fine art, the impact of European art on his perspective, and the challenges he faced pursuing art as a career. Alexander emphasizes the importance of passion in art, the role of travel in shaping his work, and his current ventures in Hawaii, highlighting the significance of reinventing oneself as an artist. and the pride he takes in his work.

TOPICS DISCUSSED

• 01:10 Introduction to Alexander Rokoff and His Artistic Journey
• 02:05 The Influence of Family and Early Artistic Development
• 05:05 Transitioning from Cartooning to Fine Art
• 07:25 Finding Success in Jewelry and Art
• 11:00 The Impact of European Art on Alexander's Perspective
• 15:10 Reinventing Oneself as an Artist
• 17:35 Overcoming Adversity: The 2008 Economic Crisis
• 19:20 Rediscovering Passion and Purpose in Art
• 21:30 The Role of Travel and Cultural Exposure in Art
• 26:15 Current Ventures and Future Aspirations in Hawaii
• 27:30 Artistic Influences and Limited Palettes
• 29:00 Life in Hawaii: A New Artistic Journey
• 30:40 The Beauty of the Big Island's Landscapes
• 34:30 Personal Reflections: Art and Family Legacy
• 36:30 Creating Art with Pride and Purpose
• 36:35 Participatory Art: Engaging Clients in the Process
• 47:30 Buying Art: Trusting Your Instincts
• 50:15 Future Aspirations: Large-Scale Projects in Hawaii

CONNECT WITH GUEST

Alexander Rokoff

• Website
• Facebook
• Instagram

KEY QUOTES FROM EPISODE

• "Art is an addiction."
• "I never left the easel."
• "What would you do if nobody paid you?"