Apple Growth Partners

Charles Mullen

“Stark Tank” Drives Young, Local Innovation

Investing in our communities is a core credo at Apple Growth Partners. Last evening, I proudly began my second term as a judge, supporter, and raving fan of Stark Tank, a play on the now-famous “Shark Tank” television show. This event has evolved into a series, garnering statewide attention and admiration among those in educational …

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Charting the Future Amidst a $31 Trillion (and Growing) Problem

It’s the number which needs no formal introduction, and it’s an elephant in the boardroom of every business in America whether acknowledged or not. No strategic plan, economic forecast, or growth projection is complete without cognizance of how a $31 trillion national debt service will muscle its way throughout the US economy. The goal of this article is to raise awareness of how incremental national debt impacts private businesses and explain why a pain-free past of borrowing is no indicator of future consequences from more borrowing. Finally, there are some pointers at the end of the article to help business owners consider how to handle asset valuation changes caused by a national debt crisis.

Thriving During Inflation: How Business Leaders Can Accept, Think Differently, and Get Ahead

Inflation hedging requires counterintuitive thinking but with persistence and vigilance, we will all arrive at the new normal unscathed. Historically, inflation raises prices, wages and input costs to a new level and then flattens out (relatively speaking). Deflation typically does not occur, and so, the exercise of adjusting has an end to it, thankfully.

SLICED Ep106: Maximizing Profits for Restaurant Owners

In today’s episode, Dirk Ahlbeck, AGP’s National Restaurant Lead, joins Chuck & Brittany. This week, they discuss the current state of affairs for the food industry. In addition, Dirk shares the first steps he takes with restaurant owners to maximize profits. Plus, Dirk shares his favorite Chicago area restaurant! A great episode, streaming everywhere now. …

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Apple Growth Partners’ Response to the Ongoing Pandemic

Although transactional and transformational leadership are quite different approaches to leadership, comparing the two is not a question of good vs. bad or right vs. wrong. Both offer advantages in certain situations, and while you may naturally gravitate toward one style, understanding both and knowing when to utilize their strategies can make you an even stronger leader.

SLICED Ep105: Focused Leadership

In today’s episode, Ed Eppley, author of “Let’s be Clear – Six Disciplines of Focused Management Pros” and Founder of The Eppley Group, joins Chuck & Brittany. This week, they discuss the discipline of being a focused leadership. In addition, Ed shares his thoughts on embracing transformation, rather than what is satisfying and comfortable. A …

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SLICED Ep104: Expert Advice for Start-ups and Small Business Owners

In today’s episode, Bob Cohen, certified small business mentor at SCORE Cleveland, joins Chuck & Brittany. This week, they discuss pain points, and Bob’s expert advice, for small business owners and start-ups. A great episode, streaming everywhere now. Subscribe to receive updates like this from Apple Growth Partners here.

SLICED Ep103: Driving Job Creation and Capital Investment in Ohio

In today’s episode, Terry Gore of JobsOhio joins Chuck & Brittany to discuss how we can partner to drive job creation and capital investment in Ohio. In addition, Terry shares some of the biggest opportunities he believes companies should take advantage of now. A great episode, streaming everywhere now. Subscribe to receive updates like this …

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SLICED Ep102: Building and Maintaining a Successful Small Business

In today’s episode, Katie Van Dyke of the Ohio Small Business Development Center at Cleveland State University joins Chuck & Brittany to discuss the biggest concerns for small business owners, and resources to address them. In addition, Katie shares tips for turning your idea into a successful business and how to get started. A great …

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