Scaling the Gap

In this episode of Scaling the Gap , host Madeleine MacRae introduces Brian Galke, a keynote speaker and one of the featured speakers at the inaugural Bridgepoint event in Orlando on November 22nd. Brian shares his journey from being an introverted help desk employee to a regional VP managing a $40 million business. His transformation stemmed from mastering the art of decoding facial features , a...

In the latest episode of Scaling the Gap , host Madeleine MacRae sits down with Steve Sims , acclaimed author of Bluefishing and Go For Stupid , to explore his unconventional approach to achieving success. Describing himself as an "aggravated curious child," Steve shares how curiosity, paired with action, can challenge the status quo and unlock extraordinary results. Steve, known for his unique ab...

In this exciting episode of Scaling the Gap , host Madeleine MacRae welcomes Rachel Berlin, a bold and ambitious leader who has dedicated her life to empowering women—specifically women in the flooring industry. Join us as we dive into Rachel's inspiring journey, the lessons she's learned along the way, and how she's flourishing in both her personal and professional life. Get ready to be inspired...

In this exciting episode of Scaling the Gap , Madeleine MacRae welcomes Angela Fielden, the owner of Simply Floors and Lights in Gilmer, Texas. Angela shares her journey of creating a successful one-stop-shop for flooring and lighting in a town with a population of just 4,900. Tune in to hear how she has built a boutique-style retail business, the strategies she's used to stand out in a small comm...

In this episode of Scaling the Gap , Madeleine MacRae sits down with Patrick Francey, a successful entrepreneur, podcast host, and dedicated family man. Patrick shares his journey, discussing the balance between being a husband, father, and grandfather while managing the demands of entrepreneurship. He dives deep into the world of business, the mindset shifts needed for growth, and how he leverage...

In this exciting episode of Scaling the Gap , we welcome marketing expert Mark Perel, a long-time connection and first-time podcast guest. Mark’s journey through the world of business and marketing is filled with valuable lessons and powerful strategies. From his experience in networking groups to the incredible success he’s achieved in marketing, Mark opens up about his methods, his motivation, a...

In this inspiring episode of Scaling the Gap , we sit down with the talented Linda H. Bassert, the 2024 Designer of the Year as awarded by Vision Window Fashions Magazine. Join us as Linda shares her journey from humble beginnings to becoming a celebrated designer in the window coverings industry. Learn about the challenges she overcame, her award-winning projects, and the driving force behind her...

In this episode of "Scaling the Gap," Madeleine MacRae delves into the inspiring career of Luann, a former window treatment mogul turned podcasting powerhouse. They explore Luann's evolution from founding a successful business, Window Works, to influencing the interior design industry through her podcasts.

In this heartwarming episode of "Scaling the Gap," Madeleine MacRae hosts Jessica and Jacob, the entrepreneurial minds behind Get Floored, a unique flooring store in Myrtle Beach. They share their journey from childhood dreams to business reality, and the role family values play in their success. Jessica and Jacob's story is a testament to the power of following one's passion and the importance of...

In this episode of "Scaling the Gap," Madeleine MacRae hosts Dr. Sirisha, a former tech executive turned entrepreneur, who shares her multifaceted career journey, from layoffs to leadership, and her eventual leap into entrepreneurship. Dr. Kuchimanchi journey underscores the importance of resilience, strategic planning, and financial independence in navigating one's career and personal life, provi...

In this episode of "Scaling the Gap," Madeleine MacRay interviews Tina Engdahl, owner of Apollo Draperies. Tina shares her journey from being a registered nurse to taking over a family-owned custom window treatment business. The discussion highlights the transformation of her career, the evolution of the business under her leadership, and the support she gained from joining the Exciting Windows ne...

In this episode of the podcast, Madeleine MacRay interviews Joe Rare, founder of Level 9 Virtual. Joe discusses his company's role in providing outsourced virtual services to help small businesses scale effectively. He emphasizes the benefits of virtual staffing, particularly in administrative and marketing roles, and shares how the shift to remote work during the pandemic has broadened acceptance...

In this episode of "Scaling the Gap," Madeleine MacRay interviews Roger Magalhaes, a serial entrepreneur in the window treatment industry. Roger shares his journey from starting as an installer to owning three companies, focusing on customer service and educating others in the industry. He highlights the importance of self-care and maintaining one's health as vital for sustained productivity and s...

In a captivating episode of "Scaling the Gap," Madeleine MacRae hosts Jessica Harling, the visionary behind 'Behind the Design.' Together, they explore Jessica's journey from shaping family business operations to founding her own company that enhances processes within the interior design and window covering industries. Jessica Harling's story is a testament to the power of background, education, a...

In this episode of "Scaling the Gap," Madeleine MacRae chats with Jessica Taylor, co-founder of Total Blinds and Window Tinting. Based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Jessica shares her entrepreneurial journey and the unique dynamics of running a multifaceted window treatment business. Jessica and her partner started with a window tint company and expanded into comprehensive window treatment services...

In a recent episode of "Scaling the Gap," John Hewitt, founder of Loyalty Brands, shares his extensive experience in building successful franchise systems. Hewitt, a seasoned entrepreneur with over 55 years in the tax service industry, now manages multiple franchise brands, with a particular focus on tax services and mobile dog grooming. Hewitt's journey underscores the significance of vision, det...

In this episode of "Scaling the Gap," Madeleine MacRae explores the innovative world of crowdfunding with Jeff "Fuzzy" Wenzel, an early pioneer in the space. Jeff shares his journey from participating in one of the earliest Kickstarter campaigns to specializing in equity crowdfunding, where small investors can own a stake in startups for as little as $100. Jeff emphasizes that successful crowdfund...

In this episode of "Scaling the Gap," Jeremy Nienhuser discusses his unique journey from insurance to owning a franchise in window treatments and launching a national commercial installation business. Jeremy career evolution from insurance to entrepreneurship in window treatments and large-scale installations showcases a path marked by learning, adaptation, and seizing opportunities. His story is...

Tami Kozanecki of The Blinds Man in Lexington, Kentucky, discusses her journey in the window treatment industry with Madeleine MacRae on the "Scaling the Gap" podcast. With 20 years under her belt, Tami's story is one of passion, dedication, and a deep commitment to customer service. Tami's journey with The Blinds Man illustrates the importance of adaptability and deep-rooted values in building a...

Dennis Gehman of Gehman Design and Remodeling shares his journey from carpenter to entrepreneur on the "Scaling the Gap" podcast. Based in Harleysville, Pennsylvania, Dennis's business focuses on residential remodeling, with a strong family-first ethos deeply integrated into his company's culture. Dennis highlights the importance of family, both personally and professionally, and credits his succe...

Heidi Morrissey, a former teacher turned franchise mogul, oversees Kitchen Tune-Up and Bath Tune-Up. She joins Madeleine MacRae on the "Scaling the Gap" podcast to discuss her journey in franchising and cultivating a successful business culture. Heidi Morrissey’s leadership exemplifies how a strong, supportive culture and innovative problem-solving can drive a franchise to success. Her story provi...

In this insightful episode of "Scaling the Gap," Madeleine MacRae hosts Lisa Hayes, the managing partner at Shermerhorn Inc., a family-owned business specializing in window treatments. Lisa shares her experiences taking over a multi-generational family business and the dynamics of transitioning leadership across generations. Lisa's journey underscores the importance of planning, structured progres...

In a captivating episode of "Scaling the Gap," host Madeleine MacRae talks with VIN Nagara, a seasoned entrepreneur and business developer. VIN shares his journey from leading a successful window coverings business to advising in the same industry with keen insights into operations, systems, and finance. Highlights Include: Transitioning Roles: After 41 years, VIN transitioned from managing his re...

In this episode of "Scaling the Gap," Madeleine MacRae chats with Jessica Work, founder and CEO of Blinds Couture. Jessica shares her 17-year journey in the window treatment industry, which began serendipitously and evolved into a thriving business. Focusing on a client-centered approach rather than quick sales, her company stands out in the Colorado market by providing comprehensive, customized s...

We have a very special edition coming to you live from the floor of the International Window Covering Expo here in Dallas. This event is a beacon for innovators, forward-thinkers, and trailblazers in the world of design and business — and we have the privilege of sitting down with some of the brightest minds in the industry. Jose and Claudia, co-founders of Blue Design share their story of how the...