You’ve heard that relationships are everything in business, but how do you turn them into real opportunity? For Kyle Cokinos and Taylor Mann of Cokinos Bond Agency, it all started with taking a risk on each other.

In this episode, they share how betting on each other, choosing integrity over quick wins, and focusing on trust turned them into one of Houston's newest success stories. You'll learn how they've gained credibility in a reputation-driven industry, earned client trust, and are continuing to scale through relationships!

Topics discussed:

● How they chose the name, Cokinos Bond Agency

● Why they took the leap into entrepreneurship

● Early challenges and their first office

● The surprising marketing moment that landed them on TV

● The importance of credibility in the bond industry

● How trust and integrity drive long-term success

● Partnership dynamics and how they balance their strengths

● Hiring intentionally and plans for growth

● Implementing EOS for structure and growth

Candus Hinderer and Carrie Ferroukhi are the co-founders of Arcus Advisors, a business consulting firm dedicated to helping Private Equity firms and their portfolio companies improve results by optimizing the accounting and finance functions through strategic guidance and practical solutions. For more information and resources, visit Arcus Advisors: https://arcusadvisors.com/home

This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique https://www.podcastboutique.com

Why not?

That is the mindset that carried Chris ‘Buck’ Buckner from job rejections to turning small ideas into big companies. From building a sports app to partnering with an AI company, his career shows that being open to opportunity matters more than chasing a ‘perfect’ plan.

Today, he shares what he learned from every venture and how empathy has turned out to be his biggest advantage. We also explore Houston’s growing tech scene, how Buck avoids burnout, and what the future of entrepreneurship could look like with the rise of creators, influencers, and AI.

Topics discussed in this episode:

● How rejection led to his first startup

● Lessons on fundraising and standing out amongst the competition

● The shift that helped him find work-life balance

● How valuing relationships landed him an opportunity in AI

● Why integrity is his number one priority in business

● How he’s helping the next generation become entrepreneurs

● Social media and tech’s influence on entrepreneurship

Candus Hinderer and Carrie Ferroukhi are the co-founders of Arcus Advisors, a business consulting firm dedicated to helping Private Equity firms and their portfolio companies improve results by optimizing the accounting and finance functions through strategic guidance and practical solutions. For more information and resources, visit Arcus Advisors: https://arcusadvisors.com/home

This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique https://www.podcastboutique.com

This isn’t your typical entrepreneur story. Patti Melcher co-founded a private equity firm during the 2009 economic crisis, but another incredible accomplishment has been launching The Joy School to support, first her daughter, and then hundreds of students with learning differences.

In this episode, she shares how her values and long-term strategy have shaped her career — from navigating the highs and lows of the energy market to building a culture of trust and collaboration not often found in private equity. Let’s dive into purpose, leadership, and embracing change to make a lasting impact!

Topics discussed in this episode:

• Patti’s early experience in private equity

• Founding The Joy School in Houston

• The growth and impact of The Joy School

• Early investments and challenges of starting EIV Capital

• EIV’s long-term approach to investing and growth

• Diversity, teamwork and leadership at EIV

• Creating a culture of diversity, collaboration, and support

• How they promote philanthropy within the company

• Why they invest in the volatile energy market

• How stepping back leads to more growth

• Employee development and empowerment

Connect with Patti Melcher:

https://eivcapital.com/

https://www.thejoyschool.org/

Candus Hinderer and Carrie Ferroukhi are the co-founders of Arcus Advisors, a business consulting firm dedicated to helping Private Equity firms and their portfolio companies improve results by optimizing the accounting and finance functions through strategic guidance and practical solutions. For more information and resources, visit Arcus Advisors: https://arcusadvisors.com/home

This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique https://www.podcastboutique.com