Épisodes

  • More Than a Body: The Faith-Based Fitness Brand Redefining Women's Apparel with Maryori Jones
    Feb 20 2026

    Guest: Maryori Jones | Founder, Ave Sportwear

    Host: Ken Baden | CEO/Owner, Baden Consulting & Potomac Custom Remodeling

    Podcast: The Kitchen Table Podcast | thekitchentablepodcast.net

    Key Takeaways:

    • Ave stands for Agua Viva Empire — a faith-first brand for women of all body types
    • The brand was born from Maryori's postpartum experience and the loss of identity many mothers face after childbirth
    • She grew up between Honduras and Mexico and was selling fruit to help her family at age 6 — entrepreneurship has always been in her DNA
    • Ave is strictly women's athletic apparel, designed to serve all body types and life stages
    • She is also building a hair product line alongside Ave Sportwear
    • Maryori and her husband (active military) are relocating to the Chicago area soon — Ave will continue to grow online
    • Social media comparison is a real issue for women — Ave is a counter-cultural brand encouraging women to love themselves from the inside out
    • First-generation immigrants often carry a stronger hunger and appreciation for opportunity in America
    • Both Ken and Maryori connect over rebuilding their lives and how hitting rock bottom removes the fear of failure

    Resources Mentioned:

    • Ave Sportwear: avesportwear.us
    • State & Liberty (men's athletic-fit clothing, mentioned by Ken)
    • Good Vibes Only (another clothing brand in the TKT circle)
    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    26 min
  • ICE Raids, Insurance Wars, and the Retail Revolution: A Roofing State of the Union with your host Ken Baden
    Feb 13 2026
    EPISODE NOTES

    Host: Ken Baden — CEO & President, Potomac Custom Remodeling and Baden Consulting Format: Solo episode, no guest Runtime: Approx. 21 minutes

    People & Companies Mentioned:

    • Dmitry Lipinskiy — Roofing Insights (hosted Ken on his podcast and radio show in Minnesota)
    • Chris Simberman — industry contact discussing business pivots
    • Network shoutouts: John Cena, Chris Jericho, Adam Vidzeme, Brandon J., Todd Price, John McCainbridge, Adam Champagne, Tony Flahom, Kurt Lindemann

    Key Topics:

    • ICE enforcement & the Hispanic labor workforce — staffing, costs, and project timelines
    • Credit score landscape — 64% of Americans have a FICO above 700 (live ChatGPT lookup done on air)
    • National roofing market dropped ~19% in 2025
    • UPPA law — what it means for contractors working insurance claims
    • Insurance drop letters — companies requiring roof replacement within 30 days or canceling policies
    • Retail vs. insurance restoration — pros, cons, and why diversification is critical
    • What a working retail sales system looks like (lead gen, setter-closer model, 30–35% close rate)
    • Super Bowl local ad spot secured a week before the game
    • 2026 mindset — down markets create market share opportunities

    Baden Consulting is currently accepting a limited number of clients per quarter. Reach out to Ken directly for availability or referrals to vetted industry consultants.

    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    22 min
  • The 78-Year-Old Engineer Who Cracked the Code to Financial Freedom with Ron Kmetovicz
    Feb 6 2026

    Guest Information:

    • Name: Ron Kmetovicz
    • Book: Ghost Money: The Pathway to Financial Independence
    • Website: https://ghostmoneythebook.com
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ron-k-34218017/
    • Background: Retired engineer, 20 years in Silicon Valley, consulting practice owner
    • Current Location: Reno-Lake Tahoe area
    • Age: 78 (still actively skiing, mountain biking, hiking)

    Key Concepts Discussed:

    1. Ghost Money Strategy
      • Separate investment account from 401(k)/retirement funds
      • Focus on long-term compound growth
      • Built to outlast inflation
      • Started early for maximum effect
    2. Why Traditional Advice Falls Short
      • 401(k)s have limitations and restrictions
      • Inflation erodes purchasing power over time
      • Traditional retirement planning may not provide true independence
      • Need for additional wealth-building strategies
    3. Ron's Background & Credibility
      • Pennsylvania farm boy upbringing
      • Penn State engineering degree
      • 20 years in Silicon Valley with top talent and equipment
      • Started consulting practice and multiple businesses
      • Successfully mentored children and grandchildren through financial development
    4. Book Origins
      • Written at age 78 as legacy document for great-grandchildren
      • Based on real experience mentoring family members
      • Simple, accessible approach to complex topic
      • Not profit-driven—focused on helping youth
    5. Investment Philosophy
      • Avoid gambling mentality (crypto, day trading, meme coins)
      • Focus on steady, proven growth strategies
      • Understand the difference between investing and speculation
      • Start early, stay consistent
    6. Life Philosophy: "Live Where You Play"
      • Integrate work and lifestyle choices
      • Reduce commuting and unnecessary travel
      • Build life around activities you love
      • Financial independence enables lifestyle freedom

    Actionable Takeaways:

    • Start a separate "Ghost Money" investment account today
    • Make consistent contributions, no matter how small
    • Focus on long-term growth over quick wins
    • Understand inflation's real impact on your purchasing power
    • Avoid the allure of day trading and crypto gambling
    • Read "Ghost Money" for the complete strategy
    • Consider where you live vs. where you want to play

    Resources Mentioned:

    • Ghost Money: The Pathway to Financial Independence (book)
    • Website: ghostmoneythebook.com
    • Available on Amazon (search for Ron Kmetovicz to find the correct book)
    • The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod (referenced by Ken)

    Warning for Book Buyers: There are other fiction books titled "Ghost Money" - make sure you're getting Ron Kmetovicz's book (spelled K-M-E-T-O-V-I-C-Z). Easiest way is to go directly to ghostmoneythebook.com.

    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    39 min
  • From Wealth to Fulfillment: How People Pleasing Almost Cost Me My Life with Saahil Mehta
    Jan 30 2026
    Guest Background:Saahil Mehta - Based in Dubai (visiting New York during recording)Entrepreneur running three businessesSecond-generation entrepreneur (diamond trading business started by father at age 54)First-generation entrepreneur (hospitality business running ~17 years)Author of "Break Free: A Guide to Decluttering Your Life"Success coach and member of Dr. Marshall Goldsmith's 100 CoachesKeynote speaker with upcoming TED Talk (February 5th)Father and husband committed to family presenceKey Themes Discussed:The Success ParadoxAchieved seven-figure net worth by age 20Hit all conventional success markers by age 36Felt completely unfulfilled despite external achievementsThe danger of having "blinders on" focused only on wealth creationThe People Pleasing CrisisHow people pleasing became a life-threatening issueIgnoring personal needs and health for others' approvalThe cultural and familial conditioning around pleasing othersBreaking free from the need for external validationRock Bottom and AwakeningThe moment of realization that something had to changeConfronting the emptiness behind the success facadeThe courage to admit vulnerability and seek helpBeginning the journey of self-discoveryRedefining SuccessMoving from society's definition to personal definitionUnderstanding that success without fulfillment is hollowThe importance of aligning actions with valuesCreating a life of purpose, not just profitThe Zero Regret PhilosophyDecision-making framework based on avoiding future regret"If your decision will take you to potential regret, think again"Living intentionally rather than reactivelyTaking ownership of your choices and their consequencesDecluttering LifePhysical decluttering as a gateway to mental clarityIdentifying and releasing emotional baggageLetting go of limiting beliefs and conditioningCreating space for what truly mattersFamily and RelationshipsThe wake-up call about missing his children's childhoodChoosing presence over productivityBeing a better father, husband, and friendThe ripple effect of personal transformation on all relationshipsCoaching and MentorshipWorking with Marshall Goldsmith and the 100 Coaches communityHelping other entrepreneurs avoid similar pitfallsThe power of vulnerability in leadershipCreating sustainable success that includes fulfillmentPractical Transformation StepsStarting with self-awareness and honest assessmentFree complimentary webinar to kickstart the journeyDiscovery calls for personalized guidanceDaily practices for maintaining alignmentNotable Quotes:"If your decision will take you to potential regret, think again""I felt like a horse with blinders on - focused only on wealth creation""I've hit all the boxes but felt completely unfulfilled""At what expense are you achieving your success?""Your dad started a company at 54 - it's never too late""Success without fulfillment is just an expensive emptiness"Resources & Links:Saahil Mehta's Resources:Website: www.saahilmehta.com/successFree Complimentary Webinar: Available at above linkBook: "Break Free: A Guide to Decluttering Your Life"LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/saahilmehtaTED Talk: "How People Pleasing Almost Cost Me My Life" (February 5th, available online 60-90 days after)Social Media: Search "Saahil Mehta" on major platformsThe Kitchen Table Podcast:Website: thekitchentablepodcast.netHost: Ken BadenCEO/Owner of Baden ConsultingCEO/Owner of Potomac Custom RemodelingAction Items for Listeners:Immediate Actions:Reflect on your own definition of success - is it yours or someone else's?Identify one area where you're people pleasing at the expense of your well-beingConsider what "baggage" (physical or emotional) you might be carryingThis Week:Enroll in Saahil's free complimentary webinar at saahilmehta.com/successRead or purchase "Break Free: A Guide to Decluttering Your Life"Journal about a decision you're facing using the "Zero Regret" frameworkThis Month:Schedule a discovery call with Saahil if you're ready for transformationImplement one decluttering practice (physical or mental)Share this episode with an entrepreneur friend who might need to hear this messageLong Term:Watch Saahil's TED Talk when it goes liveRegularly assess whether your actions align with your valuesBuild a support system that encourages authentic successEpisode Insights:This episode stands out for its raw honesty about the dark side of entrepreneurial success. Saahil doesn't just share his story - he provides a roadmap for others to avoid the same traps. The conversation challenges conventional notions of success and offers a more holistic, sustainable approach to building both business and life.Key takeaways include the importance of defining success on your own terms, recognizing the warning signs of burnout and unfulfillment, and understanding that it's never too late to course-correct. Saahil's father starting a business at 54 is particularly inspiring for listeners who feel they've missed their window.The Zero Regret philosophy ...
    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    42 min
  • Lead Exponentially: How to Build a Business That Runs Without You | Reed Nyffeler
    Jan 16 2026

    Guest: Reed Nyffeler - Author, franchisor operating in 49 states & 9 countries Books: "Transform Through Purpose" and "Lead Exponentially" Contact: readnyffeler.com

    Key Topics:

    • Construction to franchise journey
    • Security franchise model with proprietary software
    • New low-cost franchises: Filter Go, window cleaning
    • Franchise vs. entrepreneur: personality determines path
    • Lead Exponentially framework for delegation
    • Great Grandma vs. Grandma leadership analogy
    • 6-month test: Can your business grow without you?
    • Stewardship of time and talent for next generation

    Episode Timestamps

    [00:00:00] Introduction & Reed's Background

    [00:00:48] Construction Beginnings - Block layer at 14, father's home building business

    [00:01:51] Career Evolution - DeWalt Power Tools, early tech, Christmas lights

    [00:03:10] Discovering Franchising - The gap between skills and business knowledge

    [00:04:01] Franchise Value - Recipe for success, pricing, systems, exit strategy

    [00:08:00] Security Franchise Deep Dive - 49 states, Uber-like software, hundreds of millions in revenue

    [00:12:00] Target Audience - Military veterans and former police officers

    [00:15:00] New Low-Cost Franchises - Filter Go, window cleaning, no money down model

    [00:18:00] Cross-Selling Strategy - Leveraging existing clients for warm leads

    [00:20:20] Franchise vs. Entrepreneur - Personality assessment and path selection

    [00:21:40] Great Grandma Analogy - Recipe creators vs. recipe perfectors

    [00:24:00] The $20 Payroll Story - Learning what NOT to do

    [00:26:40] Lead Exponentially Framework - Six-month test: business vs. job

    [00:28:20] Teaching for Employee Benefit - Motivation beyond paycheck

    [00:31:00] Five Levels of Leadership - Aligning leadership with organization size

    [00:33:00] Where to Find Reed - Books, website, resources

    [00:35:00] Final Wisdom - Stewardship and multigenerational impact

    [00:36:15] Closing & Consulting Info

    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    37 min
  • Mastering the Craft: Chris Zimmerman's Blueprint for Roofing Success in 2026
    Jan 9 2026

    Guest: Chris Zimmerman

    • Owner, At Your Service Roofing and Remodeling
    • Co-founder, Master Your Craft (with John Lombard)
    • 15+ years in roofing industry
    • Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor
    • Based in Cincinnati, OH with branch in Cleveland

    Key Topics Discussed:

    Industry Transformation (2024)

    • Market down 20-40% for most contractors
    • Chris achieved best year ever despite no major storms
    • The "thinning of the herd" is finally happening
    • Shift from storm-dependent to sustainable business models

    New Ventures with John Lombard:

    1. Scientific Hail Damage Testing Service - Methodical testing to determine actual hail damage vs. "magnetic hail"
    2. AI-Powered Claims Assistance Tool - Downloads expertise from Chris, John, and industry leaders to help contractors communicate effectively with insurance carriers

    The Great Pivot: Restoration to Retail

    • Burned company to the ground (Labor Day 2024)
    • Eliminated 2 of 5 divisions
    • Complete restructuring of leadership and processes
    • Unified process for repairs, retail, and claims
    • Eliminated door knocking entirely
    • Focus on referral partnerships over cold leads

    Three Mindset Shifts for Retail Success:

    1. Price - You can charge premium prices in retail (just like restoration)
    2. Opportunity - Build referral networks, don't rely on door knocking or expensive marketing
    3. Service - Run every appointment through the same process regardless of type

    Insurance Industry Challenges:

    • COVID doubled claim costs while premiums stayed regulated
    • Carriers forced into "poor behavior" due to financial constraints
    • Fraud was "priced in" but became unmanageable
    • Homeowners deserve indemnification regardless of carrier challenges

    Communication is King:

    • "If your skill level is a 4 and your communication level is a 9, your effectiveness is a 4" - John Lombard
    • Understanding the "why" behind strategies vs. memorizing scripts
    • Most contractors can't effectively "sell value"

    Industry Red Flags:

    • "Insurance claim specialist" = UPA violations
    • Flexing on social media vs. building sustainable business
    • Short-term thinking vs. long-term wealth building
    • Lambos in year 2-3 = cash flow problems ahead

    Advice for New Roofers:

    1. Develop strong work ethic first
    2. Read books constantly (1% better with each one)
    3. Block out the noise and social media drama
    4. Treat roofing as a career, not a job
    5. Build reputation over revenue
    6. Focus on long-term strategy
    7. Take advantage of training resources (NTS, Master Your Craft)

    Master Your Craft Details:

    • Online community: $1,000-$1,500/month for 20 users
    • 15-35 pre-recorded 2-hour trainings
    • 3 new trainings monthly (Chris, John, + guest expert)
    • Private trainings available
    • Free Owens Corning University classes
    • In-person classes: ~$500-600/ticket

    Resources Mentioned:

    • Master Your Craft
    • NTS (National Testing Services)
    • RSRA (Roofing & Siding Restoration Alliance) - Adam Bensman
    • Owens Corning University
    • Power Home Remodeling

    Key Quotes:

    • "Your reputation is your net worth"
    • "It's way harder to sell restoration than retail these days"
    • "The problem with arguing with a fool is that people from a distance can't tell who's who"
    • "Slow down, make your money, do good, help people out—that good's gonna come back to you"
    • "Keep it stupid simple" (KISS principle)
    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    55 min
  • Every Story Matters: How to Build Your Brand Story and Write Your Book with Bill Blankschaen
    Dec 26 2025
    About Bill Blankschaen: Bill is the author of "Your Story Advantage" and owner of Story Builders, where he's spent 13+ years helping individuals and businesses develop their stories. He's worked with high-profile names like Dean Graziosi, John Maxwell, and Louis Howes, as well as countless businesses building their brands systematically.The Story Ecosystem Framework:Message Maker - Your core brand storyMessage Multiplier - Your book that scales your messageMessage Monetizer - Coaching programs, trainings, workshops, and digital coursesSeven-Step Brand Story Process: Bill walks businesses through a comprehensive process to develop their brand story, ensuring it resonates with their target audience and builds trust.Key Philosophy: "Your story is about you, but your story is not for you" - This mindset shift helps entrepreneurs focus on serving their customers rather than just promoting themselves.The Story Focus Question: If someone engages with your brand and forgets 99% of everything, what's the ONE thing you want them to remember? This becomes your "meaningful message."Book Resources:Get the book: yourstoryadadvantage.com (includes multiple free bonuses)Also available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-MillionSchedule consultation: mystorybuilders.com/storyTimestamps00:00:18 - Welcome and guest introduction - Bill Blankschaen from Orlando00:00:56 - Ken's excitement about discussing story and brand over roofing00:01:33 - The importance of building a personal brand00:02:30 - Everyone has a distinct advantage through their unique story00:03:03 - The Story Ecosystem: Message Maker, Message Multiplier, Message Monetizer00:03:56 - Discussion of Bill's book "Your Story Advantage"00:04:25 - Bill's 13+ years of experience working with major names00:05:01 - Your breakthrough begins when you start with your story00:05:43 - The importance of story for both influencers AND businesses00:06:09 - Seven-step process for developing brand stories00:06:18 - "Your story is about you, but not for you"00:07:04 - Roofing example: Trust-based decision making00:08:00 - Ken's positioning strategy for higher-end clients00:09:07 - Being intentional about who you want to reach00:09:46 - Copy-paste-tweak: Systemizing your brand story00:10:38 - Defining your key demographic intentionally00:10:46 - Case study: Multi-generational stone masonry company00:12:01 - Reverse engineering marketing from your brand story00:12:28 - The "Roof Wizard" character discussion00:13:00 - Potomac Custom Remodeling brand strategy00:13:56 - Everyone telling the same story across your organization00:14:41 - Many businesses succeed accidentally00:15:10 - Ken at the point of exhausting outbound marketing00:15:30 - The power of brand recognition00:16:00 - Access to the course and bonuses00:16:22 - Working with both individuals and organizations00:17:10 - Your key to success is focusing on your "neighborhood"00:18:10 - The congressman story: "This book is for every American"00:18:26 - Narrowing your focus to punch through Sheehan's Wall00:19:01 - Puddle, pond, lake, ocean analogy for building audience00:19:26 - Ken's two book ideas and the disconnect00:20:05 - Why books differentiate service-based businesses00:20:24 - "You've literally written the book on the subject"00:21:00 - Business books vs. personal brand books00:22:00 - "How to Roof Your Home" concept discussion00:22:32 - Booklets that provide immediate value00:23:00 - The face of the brand concept00:23:40 - Allergist example with multiple locations00:24:20 - The neglected origin story of companies00:25:00 - Telling your story to resonate with customer problems00:25:17 - Ken's company story training00:26:00 - Ken's personal background story begins00:27:00 - Car accident leading to addiction00:27:12 - Three rehabs, jail, attempting to rob a store00:27:46 - The oxycodone epidemic connection00:28:00 - From homelessness to building businesses in 8 years00:28:33 - Meeting his future wife (attorney) and avoiding bankruptcy00:29:01 - Building multiple businesses from nothing00:29:40 - The power of sharing difficult stories00:30:00 - Bill's insight: Restoration and renewal theme00:30:44 - Every story matters philosophy00:31:20 - How to communicate difficult stories carefully00:31:50 - The two book disconnect revealed00:32:00 - Your story exists to support your message00:32:24 - Ken's realization about combining the books00:32:40 - Addiction's impact on American families00:33:05 - Writing for both addicts and family members00:33:45 - Work to be done compartmentalizing the story00:34:00 - Chapters 4 and 5 on building books00:34:20 - Six book starter questions00:34:46 - Both/and thinking instead of either/or00:35:00 - Ken's request for a signed copy00:35:35 - Where to get the book and bonuses00:36:22 - Schedule time to talk: mystorybuilders.com/story00:36:40 - Business owners are building personal brands too00:37:15 - Delivering tactical, actionable value00:38:00 - The collaboration chapter: "If you want to ...
    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    45 min
  • Stop Chasing Numbers: Build a Culture That Lasts | Leadership Expert - James Shin
    Dec 5 2025
    Guest IntroductionJames Shin is the author of "The Leader's Soul: 52 Reflections for Unlocking Your Inner Leader" and founder of a leadership consulting practice. Originally from South Korea, James immigrated to the United States 31 years ago to pursue his PhD at Penn State. He spent 20 years at Caterpillar, moving seven times within the company and holding various leadership positions including Plant Manager and Supply Chain Manager. His last corporate role before starting his consulting business was with Cabinet Works Group. James is based in Houston, Texas, and is passionate about people-centric leadership that creates sustainable, long-term results.Key Topics CoveredThe Foundation: Integrity and CompassionIntegrity defined as consistency between what you say and what you doCompassion = Empathy + Action (desire to help)These two characteristics are more important than strategy or resultsWithout consistency, organizations become toxicLeaders must demonstrate these qualities, not just talk about themThe PQVC FrameworkTraditional business prioritizes Cost firstFlip the priority: People → Quality → Velocity → CostWhen executed in this order, sustainable results are guaranteedPeople-first approach leads to better quality, faster delivery, and lower costsThis framework creates loyalty beyond transactional relationshipsThe PDCA ApproachPlan → Do → Check → ActShows consistency in how you think and executeTransforms responsibility from leader-only to team-wideCreates group mentality and shared ownershipPrevents leader from being the sole decision-makerLeading by ExampleYou cannot hold people accountable to standards you don't meetExample: Leaders who aren't present on Saturdays can't demand Saturday workBeing late yourself undermines your authority to address lateness"Do as I say, not as I do" is a failed leadership approachActions speak louder than mandatesPersonal Investment in TeamMeet with people regularly (not just your direct reports)Ask about their personal goals: weight loss, home buying, family plansUnderstand what they like and don't like about the businessThis opens trust and creates genuine connectionBut don't make it mechanical—keep it authenticThe People-Centric PhilosophyPlant manager example: Going to shop floor daily wasn't required, but built trustPeople came with problems first, then with problems AND solutionsCorinth, Mississippi story: Concerns about foreigner in Deep South proved unfounded"People are people"—universal principle across cultures and backgroundsSustainable long-term results come from investing in peopleChallenges of Leading Younger GenerationsLeadership is tougher now due to entitlement and social media distractionsDifferent work ethic than previous generationsOlder employees rarely call in sick; younger ones struggle with consistencyHowever: Young people can dominate "just by showing up and doing what they're supposed to"Opportunity exists for those willing to be reliableMistakes and LearningMaking mistakes is inevitable in entrepreneurship and leadershipThe only real failure is quittingBiggest mistake: Not learning from your errorsSuccess comes from treating mistakes as lessons learnedJim Thorpe example: Shoes stolen before Olympics, won two golds in mismatched shoes—didn't quitLong-Term Culture vs. Short-Term GoalsDangerous to fixate only on short-term quarterly goalsNeed to balance: Short-term actions within long-term vision"What does good look like?"—keep that vision alive2008-2009 financial crisis example: Short-term actions necessary, but maintain long viewDissect failures: Internal factors vs. external factorsShare analysis with team so they understand and recommitDiversity and Different PerspectivesHiring people with different backgrounds brings different thoughtsKen's example: Female VP approaches problems differently than he doesMore measured, planned approach vs. "fire and brimstone"Diversity in thought leads to better solutionsThe Trust FactorTrust is related to integrity and compassionTrust opens opportunities that closed doors can'tGetting to know people builds trustTrust allows for honest conversations about performancePeople need to see you're invested in them, not just their outputKey Quotes"Leadership is not about the results—it's about who you are at the core, so people can emulate what you do.""Integrity is basically the consistency between what you say and what you do.""Compassion is feeling plus action—empathy plus the desire to help.""People, Quality, Velocity, Cost—if you execute in that order, I can guarantee you'll have sustainable results.""Once you have trust, it opens up a lot of opportunities.""Making mistakes, you can learn a lot from them. But quitting is actually destined to be a failure.""Trust your wings and fly. Birds on branches aren't afraid of the branch breaking because they trust their wings.""Leadership becomes tougher nowadays because of entitlement and social media distractions.""You can take over the ...
    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    32 min