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:
Episode Highlights:
Season one of Business Unchained is officially in the books! In this special recap episode, hosts Bobby Mascia and Jessica Lascar reflect on the invaluable lessons and insights they’ve gained throughout the journey. Bobby, the founder and CEO of Greenridge Wealth Planning, opens up about his entrepreneurial path. At the same time, Jess, the executive producer, shares her behind-the-scenes perspective on bringing the podcast to life.
Throughout the season, key themes have emerged: the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people, embracing risks, and having a strong support system. Bobby and Jess also dive into the evolving views on coaching and therapy, learning from failures, and how generosity builds meaningful relationships.
“We didn’t know what we were doing when we first started, but we knew that was part of our journey. Failures are part of the story.” – Jess
“You don’t need to have all the answers. I used to think I had to know everything, but now I tell my kids to say, ‘I can’t do that. . . yet,’ and that’s what a growth mindset is.” – Jess
Bobby reflects on how therapy and coaching were once stigmatized but are now essential tools for personal and professional growth. He points out that even top athletes have coaches, and for him, coaching has been as much about mindset as it has been about refining performance.
“The more good you put out there, the more good comes back. Even when things are tough.” – Bobby
“Success doesn’t happen overnight. It comes through obstacles and small, consistent progress. Practice every day, and you’ll become excellent at what you’re working toward.” – Bobby
In a fun twist, Jess asks Bobby a question from their intern, Kelly: What’s one book, one piece of advice, one habit, and one quote you’d recommend? Bobby suggests The Five Love Languages as a must-read for a better understanding of motivation, both in personal and professional relationships.
As they wrap up the season, Bobby expresses his excitement for what’s next. He hints that season two will bring even more valuable insights, engaging guests, and deeper conversations as they continue to evolve with their audience.
Don’t miss this season finale episode—it’s packed with reflection, lessons learned, and a look ahead to what’s next!
