Calling all small business warriors who feel chained to their business! Do you run your business or does your business run you? You’ve poured your blood, sweat and tears into it and it is time to set yourself free. I’m Bobby Mascia – owner of a wealth management firm, family office, manufacturing business, 18 store Dunkin Franchise, and de facto business coach. My goal? To liberate your business— whether it be operationally, prep for a sale, a legacy handover, or self-management. The roadmap to this freedom is something we will uncover together in Business Unchained.” Join me as I learn about fellow entrepreneurs, dissecting their past, present, and future.
Iliya Zogovic
Iliya Zogovic is the Founder and Managing Partner of DBD Partners, bringing extensive experience in investment banking and corporate growth. Previously, he served as CEO of ONEtoONE Corporate Finance USA, where he successfully launched and led the U.S. division to become the bank’s most profitable branch in under four years. Before that, Zogovic was President and CEO of EMG & GSP, a major sales and marketing organization in Mexico and Central America, growing it into a global operation with over 10,000 employees.
Reference Links:
Iliya Zogovic Social Media
Episode Highlights:
Imagine running a business forever, knowing that the key to true success isn't just selling, but buying — buying a thriving business at 27, taking the helm, and steering it to even greater heights. What does that kind of bold vision look like? For many entrepreneurs, it’s a dream come true, and one that sets them apart. But how do you get there?
In this episode of Business Unchained, host Bobby Mascia is joined by Iliya Zogovic, a seasoned entrepreneur and investment banker, to explore the intricacies of entrepreneurship, business management, and the vital role financial acumen plays in building a successful company.
(00:01) ”I started working when I was still in college. I eventually ended up buying that business when I was 27. The most successful people are the ones who look at businesses holistically; you need to understand your strengths and weaknesses.”- Iliya Zogovic
(08:13) “At one point, we had around 10,000 employees across Mexico and Central America. That creates, I would like to say, one issue a day, but it's really like 100 different bombs that explode every single day.”- Iliya Zogovic
(44:35) “Run your business like you were going to run it forever because great companies are bought, they're not sold”- Iliya Zogovic
The decision to sell a business is often fraught with emotional challenges, especially for entrepreneurs who have dedicated decades to building their companies. Iliya stresses the need to address these emotional concerns early in the process to ensure a clear and balanced decision.
(54:13) “Stop comparing yourself against others. Think about how this changes your life and how that moves you.”- Iliya Zogovic
By following Iliya’s insights, entrepreneurs can better navigate the complexities of their business journeys, ensuring long-term success and personal fulfillment.
In this episode:
About Sam Tooley
Sam Tooley is a dedicated fitness entrepreneur and coach from Westfield, New Jersey. In 2017, he returned to his hometown to pursue his passion for coaching, starting with local cross country and track teams. This quickly evolved into an online coaching service where he trained endurance athletes globally. In 2018, Sam launched his first brick-and-mortar gym, The Garage Gym, which grew from a semi-private model into a 24/7 members-only fitness hub. In 2019, he founded Alpha Fit Club, a boutique group fitness concept offering circuit-style strength and conditioning classes designed to foster community and empowerment. Despite the challenges of the pandemic, Alpha Fit Club has expanded to over a dozen locations across New Jersey, with plans to build a national brand and the world’s most robust fitness community.
Reference Links:
Sam Tooley’s Social Media
Alpha Fit Club
The Garage Gym
Episode Highlights:
Ever wondered how people turn their darkest moments into their greatest triumphs? In today’s episode of Business Unchained, we sit down with Sam Tooley, co-founder and CEO of Alpha Fit Club, to explore his remarkable journey—from launching his first fitness studio to selling 20 franchises before opening the doors of the first one! Sam’s story isn’t just about business triumph; it’s also about overcoming personal struggles and finding one’s true path.
[06:55] “College was the catalyst of me recognizing that I probably wasn’t meant to sit in a room and follow a script or a playbook, but rather go make my own.” – Sam Tooley
[09:05] “‘I used the track as my punching bag. My coach, with his military background, pulled me aside once and said, ‘You’re the angriest runner I’ve ever seen.’ I get emotional replaying that because it was a reflection of all the frustration I carried.” – Sam Tooley
Sam opens up about his battle with addiction, grief, and the challenges he faced within his family, sharing how fitness became both his outlet and his salvation. Through his passion for coaching and his resilience, Sam found purpose and healing, which ultimately led him to create the Alpha Fit Club.
[06:32] “Even when I was like a junior in college, I would go sweep the floors at a dump at four in the morning just to make $30 so that I had money to go out at night.” – Sam Tooley
[15:47] “I was great at leading others, but I struggled to lead myself. It wasn’t authentic. When you finally start walking the walk, everything shifts.” – Sam Tooley
Sam pushed forward despite the hurdles, including launching Alpha Fit Club right before the pandemic. He innovated by organizing outdoor workouts, keeping the community engaged when it mattered most, and showcasing his commitment to connection during isolation.
[23:31] “My dad took too much of the medication they prescribed, which caused brain swelling and ultimately shut down his ability to breathe. It completely turned my world upside down.” – Sam Tooley
Sam also reflects on the importance of therapy in his personal growth. Initially, he threw himself into work and training, avoiding deeper emotional issues. But as he began to confront his pain head-on, he found the strength to heal truly.
[36:32] “At that moment, I finally gave myself permission to live my life. When you’re operating out of anger and frustration, you’re not truly living—you’re just going through the motions.” – Sam Tooley
[48:08] “Right before opening one franchise, we sold 20. So we sold out the state of New Jersey for the most part in all of the markets that we wanted to, to members, coaches, you name it.” – Sam Tooley
Sam’s story is a powerful testament to the strength of resilience, the importance of community, and the transformative nature of personal growth. His journey from addiction and loss to building a thriving fitness franchise offers invaluable lessons for both entrepreneurs and individuals. By facing challenges, seeking help, and fostering connection, we can navigate adversity and find success on the other side.
