From Beachbody to BODi: Carl Daikeler’s Fitness Tech Reinvention
In this episode of Built in America, host Sam Mahmood sits down with Carl Daikeler, founder and CEO of Body (formerly Beachbody), to explore what it takes to build a fitness movement that transforms millions of lives. Carl shares the evolution of his company—from the early days of infomercials to launching one of the most successful at-home fitness programs in history, P90X, and reimagining it for a digital world.He opens up about the psychology of change, why transformation starts with identity, and how having a step-by-step plan is critical to making progress stick. Carl also breaks down the power of marketing in fitness, how Body continuously tests and improves its programs, and the moments that made him realize the real impact of his work.Whether you're passionate about health, entrepreneurship, or the mindset behind reinvention, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how a bold vision—and a whole lot of discipline—can change bodies, businesses, and lives.Let’s keep building… Follow Sam Mahmood: Instagram: @TheSamMahmood Twitter: @TheSamMahmood_ LinkedIn (Host): Sam Mahmood LinkedIn (Podcast): https://www.linkedin.com/company/built-in-americaJoin the Built In America community of others who are buying great businesses and sign up for Sam’s weekly newsletter: www.builtinamerica.coFollow our producers, The Peers Project: https://www.instagram.com/thepeersproject?igsh=MTZ1dWJpZXVpYWdybA== Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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From Climate Crisis to Software Solution: Inside Watershed with Co-founder Christian Anderson
In this episode of Built in America, host Sam Mahmood sits down with Christian Anderson, co-founder of Watershed, to discuss building one of the most ambitious climate software companies out there. Christian shares the story behind Watershed’s founding and how a mission to reduce global carbon emissions turned into an enterprise-grade platform serving major companies worldwide.He dives into the role of software and AI in tackling climate change, the importance of enterprise partnerships, and how data can drive meaningful environmental action. Christian also reflects on lessons from fundraising, scaling impact, and what it takes to help decarbonize the global economy.Whether you're interested in sustainability, climate innovation, or building mission-driven companies, this episode offers an inside look at the future of climate tech—and the leaders working to shape it.Let’s keep building… Follow Sam Mahmood: Instagram: @TheSamMahmood Twitter: @TheSamMahmood_ LinkedIn:Host: Sam Mahmood Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/built-in-americaJoin the Built In America community of others who are buying great businesses and sign up for Sam’s weekly newsletter: www.builtinamerica.coFollow our producers, The Peers Project: https://www.instagram.com/thepeersproject?igsh=MTZ1dWJpZXVpYWdybA== Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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The Future of Workspaces: Industrious President Anna Squires-Levine Breaks It Down
In this episode of Built in America, host Sam Mahmood sits down with Anna Squires-Levine, President of Industrious, to discuss her unconventional path to leading one of the largest co-working companies in the U.S. Anna shares how Industrious scaled by moving away from traditional leases and forming innovative landlord partnerships—creating hospitality-driven workspaces designed for the hybrid era.She also opens up about leadership, building a culture of belonging, and the company’s commitment to community through nonprofit initiatives.Whether you're an entrepreneur, real estate operator, or curious about the future of work, this episode offers an inside look at building a workspace brand people are proud to be part of.Let’s keep building… Follow Sam Mahmood: Instagram: @TheSamMahmoodTwitter: @TheSamMahmood_LinkedIn: Sam MahmoodJoin the Built In America community of others who are buying great businesses and sign up for Sam’s weekly newsletter: www.builtinamerica.coFollow our producers, The Peers Project: https://www.instagram.com/thepeersproject?igsh=MTZ1dWJpZXVpYWdybA== Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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How Ryan Chen Built Neuro Gum into a Viral Wellness Brand
In this episode of Built in America, host Sam Mahmood sits down with Ryan Chen, co-founder of Neuro Gum, to unpack the journey behind one of the most recognizable energy gum brands in the market. Ryan shares how a college friendship sparked the idea for Neuro Gum, and how the combination of caffeine and L-theanine helped create a functional product that enhances focus and energy.Ryan dives into the realities of building a consumer brand—navigating legal hurdles, going viral on TikTok and the Joe Rogan podcast, and developing strategic partnerships with figures like Steve Aoki. He also shares lessons on funding, operations, and the power of branding and consumer education.This conversation is a deep dive into modern entrepreneurship, scaling a wellness product, and building a business that blends innovation with impact.Let’s keep building… Follow Sam Mahmood: Instagram: @TheSamMahmoodTwitter: @TheSamMahmood_LinkedIn: Sam MahmoodJoin the Built In America community of others who are buying great businesses and sign up for Sam’s weekly newsletter: www.builtinamerica.coFollow our producers, The Peers Project: https://www.instagram.com/thepeersproject?igsh=MTZ1dWJpZXVpYWdybA== Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Backing Self-Funded Searchers: Inside Grant Hensel’s Investment Strategy
In this episode of Built in America, host Sam Mahmood sits down with Grant Hensel, Managing Partner at Entrepreneurial Capital and Founder of Nonprofit Megaphone, to explore his journey across a range of ventures—from digital marketing to e-commerce. Grant shares how his passion for entrepreneurship was sparked in his youth and how, over the years, he's launched multiple businesses—some that failed, others acquired, and a few still thriving today.He dives into the self-funded search model, explains how he and his wife acquired and scaled a business together, and shares the values that guide his investment decisions. The conversation also touches on Sam’s role in Grant’s entrepreneurial evolution, his recipe for founder-investor alignment, and the lasting influence Warren Buffett has had on his philosophy as both a leader and investor.Whether you’re a founder, investor, or aspiring acquirer, this episode offers a rare inside look at the mindset and strategy behind scaling sustainable, operator-led businesses.Let’s keep building… Follow Sam Mahmood: Instagram: @TheSamMahmoodTwitter: @TheSamMahmood_LinkedIn: Sam MahmoodJoin the Built In America community of others who are buying great businesses and sign up for Sam’s weekly newsletter: www.builtinamerica.coFollow our producers, The Peers Project: https://www.instagram.com/thepeersproject?igsh=MTZ1dWJpZXVpYWdybA== Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Starting a business is exciting, but it's anything but straightforward. Having a great idea is just the beginning — what really matters are the decisions you make and the pivots along the way. That’s where Built In America comes in. A podcast that explores the real and raw experiences behind entrepreneurial success, broken down from the very beginning. Hosted by Sam Mahmood, a self-made entrepreneur raised by immigrant parents, who has skillfully raised funds to acquire businesses across America. Sam interviews guests who have built and bought some of the most fascinating and successful companies across the U.S.It doesn’t matter if you’re just starting out, thinking of buying a business, or somewhere in the messy middle, Built In America is for those ready to delve into the business of building something big and be inspired by those who have built it, bought it, and made it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.