Baked-In with Josh Allen

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Baked-In with Josh Allen

The Baked-In Podcast is a show dedicated to helping leaders.

12/19/2024

On this week’s episode presented by Busey Bank, I’m joined by my wonderful wife and best friend, Melissa Allen. Over the course of a 30+ year career, she has worn many hats—literally and figuratively. She’s been a Ringling Bros. circus performer, a touring Broadway chorus girl, a Las Vegas showgirl, a Sacramento Kings NBA cheerleader, a burlesque dancer, an aerial artist, a Pilates instructor, a dance teacher, and, perhaps her most demanding role, a baker’s wife and a mother of five.

While her career may seem like a dazzling whirlwind of sequins and spotlights, beneath it lies a masterclass in resilience, adaptability, and entrepreneurial spirit. As the seller, producer, and product all rolled into one, she has navigated the complexities of constantly marketing herself, balancing opportunity with opportunity cost, and building a fulfilling career while managing limited resources.

In many ways, she embodies the ultimate entrepreneur—creative, resourceful, and always thinking about the next move. In this conversation, we’ll dive deep into her fascinating journey, the lessons she’s learned about personal branding, the business side of performing arts, and what her story can teach all of us about managing risk, seizing opportunity, and thriving in unpredictable environments.

So, whether you’re leading a company, growing a side hustle, or just looking for inspiration, this episode has something for you. Let’s roll…

🎙️

12/12/2024

On this week’s episode present by Busey Bank, we’re diving into the world of hospitality, leadership, and creative business models with Matt Longueville, founder of STL Barkeep and the owner of two standout St. Louis bars—The Vandy and the newly opened Off Elm. Matt’s journey is a fascinating one. Back in 2018, he was thriving as a consultant in the beverage industry, convinced that owning physical locations wasn’t for him. Fast forward six years, and he’s not only opened two bars but is also pioneering a co-op-inspired approach to reward his core leadership team—a bold move designed to navigate the seasonality and challenges of the hospitality business. In this conversation, we’ll unpack what led Matt to transition from consulting to brick-and-mortar, explore the behind-the-scenes work that keeps his businesses running smoothly, and dig into the metrics that guide his decisions. We’ll also discuss the innovative ways he’s supporting his team and his vision for the future of STL Barkeep and beyond. Let’s roll…

12/05/2024

On this week’s episode presented by Busey Bank, I’m joined by good friend , the Global Strategic Marketing Director at AB Biotek, a division of AB Mauri. Rick is at the helm of crafting global strategies and driving innovation for a company that leads in fermentation solutions across industries like consumer alcohol, bioethanol, and nutrition. But Rick’s expertise doesn’t stop there.

With a career that spans nearly three decades, he’s brought brands to life at household names like Anheuser-Busch, where he led marketing for Stella Artois and Budweiser, and earlier in sports with NASCAR and the Orlando Magic. From building global marketing campaigns to fostering customer insights, Rick has a unique ability to connect strategy with storytelling, all while staying ahead in fast-evolving industries.

Today, we’ll uncover the lessons he’s learned, the challenges of adapting to new industries, and his vision for the future of marketing and brand growth. Let’s roll…

11/21/2024

On this week’s episode presented by Busey Bank, I’m sitting with , the visionary behind . DISCO! is not your typical event planning company. It’s an innovative organization that merges traditional event strategy with cutting-edge software solutions, helping businesses connect with their audiences in ways that truly resonate. Brittany and her team have been transforming how companies approach events, not just as one-off experiences but as integral parts of their customer and employee engagement strategies. In this conversation, we’ll explore the obstacles Brittany has faced scaling DISCO!, how she’s navigated the ever-evolving event landscape, and what keeps her up at night as she looks to the future. We’ll also dig into the broader, theoretical value of events — how they can be a game-changer for building stronger customer relationships and fostering an engaged workforce. Let’s roll…

11/14/2024

On this week’s episode presented by Busey Bank, I have the chance to sit with David Stine and of . David is a master craftsman whose journey began with sustainably sourced wood from his family farm, transforming it into heirloom-quality furniture. Stephanie, with her background in communications, joined the business to help it grow and reach a wider audience. Together, they’ve navigated the challenges of balancing creativity with business, sustainability with scalability, and a marriage with a shared entrepreneurial journey. Today, we’ll explore what it’s like building a company that marries old-world craftsmanship with modern design, how they manage to work seamlessly as a couple, and what it takes to build relationships with clients who value authenticity and quality. I’m excited for you all to hear their insights on the intersection of artistry, business, and partnership. Let’s roll…

11/08/2024

Today I got to talk with Andy Karandzieff of the iconic Crown Candy Kitchen, St. Louis’ oldest ice cream and soda fountain. Opened in 1913 by Andy’s grandfather Harry, who brought his confectionary skills from Greece, along with a dream to provide a family-friendly environment to enjoy the delicious creations. Andy Candy as he’s affectionately known, is the third generation keeping this legacy alive in North St. Louis. He’s a huge advocate of the city, and he isn’t afraid to put his money where his mouth is, living and working in the same historic neighborhood. We touch on a lot during this conversation, including the weight of carrying on traditional candy making, lessons learned from his father, and his mom’s advice about taking vacations when you can still enjoy them. Let’s roll!

10/31/2024

Welcome to this week’s episode presented by Busey Bank. Josh steps into the ring with Chad Mueller—professional Muay Thai fighter, gym owner, coach, and now fight promoter. Chad’s journey into martial arts started at age 11, shifting to kickboxing by 16, and eventually leading him to Thailand, where he trained and fought with Team USA. Now back in the metro area, Chad has channeled his passion into building a thriving community of fighters, opening multiple gyms, and helping others pursue their own martial arts dreams. Josh and Chad dive into what it took to open his first gym from his parent’s basement, his vision for growing the sport, and the business metrics driving his mission. Get ready for an inspiring conversation on grit, growth, and leadership in and out of the ring. Let’s roll…

10/10/2024

On this episode presented by Busey Bank, Josh gets the chance to catch up with Mich Hancock, the Co-Founder and License Holder of TEDx St. Louis, an independently organized TED Event, and the connection they share dating back to 2021 when Josh presented his TEDx talk. She’s also the CEO of 100th Monkey, a digital marketing agency that specializes in human-to-human interactions They talk about the history and her vision for TEDx St. Louis, how her marketing work uncovers other business challenges that need to be addressed, and how her work with kindness is opening new doors for her into the future. Mich is a wonderful advocate for her community and a leader in amplifying what St. Louis is doing better than most. Let’s roll…

Thank you, Gaslight for another great production 🎙️

Here’s where you can listen 👇
YouTube: | youtube.com/
Apple Podcasts: | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/baked-in-with-josh-allen/id1686215240

09/26/2024

On this week’s episode presented by Busey Bank, Josh has the immense pleasure of catching up with Chef Bill Cardwell. Best known as a pioneer of creative seasonal fare in St. Louis, Bill has been a fixture in the local culinary field for 30 plus years. It’s hard to remember a time when Cardwell wasn’t at the helm of one of the best eateries in town including Cardwells, Cardwell’s at the Plaza and BC's Kitchen or out in the community promoting the value of sustainability and seasonal cooking. He was also the first restauranteur to purchase Josh’s bread in late 1993. They talk about the state of the St. Louis food scene in 1980s and 1990s, the obstacles Bill faced during his career and his feelings on what dining is like today. Fun stuff in this one. Let’s roll…

Thank you Gaslight for another great production of Baked In Podcast 🎙️🥖

Where to watch 👇
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/baked-in-with-josh-allen/id1686215240

09/25/2024

Scaling with purpose.

Don't miss episode 64 of the Baked-In Podcast! Josh chats with Brett Arndt, CEO of Experience Fresh. Discover how they achieved 1100% growth in 3 years & maintained core values. Listen now!

Presented by Busey Bank
Thank you, Gaslight for another great production!
YouTube: | youtube.com/
Apple Podcasts: | apple.co/498nnPx

09/19/2024

On Episode 64 of the Baked-In Podcast presented by Busey Bank, Josh chats with Brett Arndt co-founder and CEO of Experience Fresh, a full-service vertically integrated agency, with a focus across , , , , and . They also happen to be St. Louis' fastest growing company on this years list. With growth of nearly 1100% in the last 3 years and an audacious plan for the future, Brett certainly has his hands full. We talk about staying true to your core values through accelerated growth, authenticity and transparency in agency relationships, and the challenge of keeping up with the relentless hustle. I even sneak in some of my own marketing questions to satisfy my own curiosities. Let's go...

Thank you Gaslight for another great production!
Thank you, for another great production!
YouTube: / youtube.com/
Apple Podcasts: | apple.co/498nnPx

09/17/2024

This week on the show, presented by Busey Bank, Josh catches up with friend Mike Goldman, VP & General Counsel of ! 🚗💦
Discover how this 50-year-old car wash brand went from a small Kirkwood, MO operation to a national leader with 29 locations, all while prioritizing human touch in a tech-driven industry. 🤝
Tune in for insights on Waterway's "Learn to Lead" program, intentional growth, and what's next for the brand.

Thank you, Gaslight for another great production!
YouTube: | youtube.com/
Apple Podcasts: | apple.co/498nnPx

09/12/2024

On this week’s episode presented by Busey Bank, Josh has the pleasure of sitting down with long time friend Mike Goldman, Vice President and General Counsel of Waterway Carwash, the 50-year-old car wash brand that started as a simple operation in Kirkwood, Missouri and has since grown into a nationally recognized market leader with 29 locations in St. Louis, Chicago, Kansas City, Denver and Cleveland. Their secret sauce continues to be human touch and personal connections in an industry driven by technology and automation. Josh and Mike talk about Waterway’s commitment to training and development via their “Learn to Lead” management training program, intentional expansion and slow growth and what’s next for brand. It’s hard not to see the value in their focus on their people. Good stuff. Let’s roll…

Thank you, Gaslight for another great production!
YouTube: | youtube.com/
Apple Podcasts: | apple.co/498nnPx

09/12/2024

❤️

Don't miss last week's episode of the Baked-In Podcast, as Josh sits down with Meredith Knopp, President and CEO of the St. Louis Area Foodbank. Josh and Meredith talk about the logistics in serving such a broad audience with a relatively small team, the creation of and the ongoing use of core values in her leadership, and 9/11 National Day of Service during which the Foodbank packed hundreds of thousands of meals. Lots of for-profit and non-profit advice in this one. Let’s roll…For more information, to donate or to volunteer, check out www.stlfoodbank.org

Presented by Busey Bank, produced by Gaslight
YouTube: | youtube.com/
Apple Podcasts: | apple.co/498nnPx

09/05/2024

On this week’s episode presented by Busey Bank, Josh has chance to sit down with Meredith Knopp, President and CEO of the St. Louis Area Foodbank. The Foodbank is responding to hunger in communities across 26 counties in Eastern Missouri and Southwestern Illinois by donating food to more than 500,000 people in the form of 40-50 million meals annually. Josh and Meredith talk about the logistics in serving such a broad audience with a relatively small team, the creation of and the ongoing use of core values in her leadership, and the upcoming 9/11 National Day of Service during which the Foodbank is hoping to pack 375,000 meals in a single day. Lots of for-profit and non-profit advice in this one. Let’s roll…For more information, to donate or to volunteer, check out www.stlfoodbank.org

Thank you Gaslight for another amazing production! Visit youtube.com/ to watch or apple.co/498nnPx to listen!

09/03/2024

This week on the Baked-In Podcast, we're pedaling towards a cure! Listen as Josh chats with executive director of Pedal the Cause, David Drier, about the incredible impact of their annual cycling challenge. $45 million raised for cancer research since 2010!

Thank you, Gaslight for another great production! Presented by Busey Bank.
YouTube: | youtube.com/
Apple Podcasts: | apple.co/498nnPx

If you’d like to get involved with Pedal the Cause this September as a donor, rider or volunteer, please visit - https://pedalthecause.org/

08/29/2024

On this week’s episode presented by Busey Bank, Josh gets the chance to sit with David Drier, the executive director of Pedal the Cause. Pedal provides critical funding for cancer research at Siteman Cancer Center and Siteman at St. Louis Children's Hospital through their annual cycling challenge. Since 2010, over $45 million has been raised – with 100% of those funds directly supporting 223 cancer research projects. This is an organization that is hugely important to Josh and his team at Companion. They’ve participated since the beginning – in a handful of events throughout the year and feeding 3,000-4,000 riders breakfast the morning of the event each September.

David and Josh talk about his long-term involvement in Pedal in honor of his daughter Victoria who passed away from brain cancer in 2018, staying relevant as a maturing organization and the process of strategic planning for the next 15 years. Lessons applicable to all kinds of companies. Let’s roll…

Please note: if you’d like to get involved with Pedal the Cause this September as a donor, rider or volunteer, please visit - https://pedalthecause.org/

Thank you, Gaslight for another great production!
YouTube: | youtube.com/
Apple Podcasts: | apple.co/498nnPx

08/27/2024

On this week’s episode of the Baked-In Podcast presented by Busey Bank, Josh sits down with good friend, Trip Straub --- President and CEO of Straub's Markets! Proud partners of Josh's wholesale business, Companion Baking Co.

Thank you, Gaslight for another great production!
YouTube: | youtube.com/
Apple Podcasts: | apple.co/498nnPx
Spotify | spoti.fi/46HFLND
Official Site | bakedinpodcast.com

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Videos

BP - Quick Bite

Join Josh as he catches up with good friend and successful entrepreneur, Doug Stritzel, founder and owner of Pickleman's, on Episode 59 of the Baked-In Podcast, presented by Busey Bank! From his love for food to his hands-off approach to leadership, Doug shares valuable insights into the restaurant franchise industry and the power of deliberate growth. Get ready to be inspired by his passionate drive and innovative mindset. Let's dive in! Thank you, Gaslight for another great production! YouTube: | youtube.com/@bakedinpodcast Apple Podcasts: | apple.co/498nnPx Spotify | spoti.fi/46HFLND Official Site | bakedinpodcast.com

On this week’s episode presented by Busey Bank, Josh has the immense pleasure of chatting with Nicole Indovino of Indovino wines- a young, energetic, passionate winemaking entrepreneur producing wines in both Spain and Colorado. She also happens to be the daughter of two of his most favorite people in the world – Jill and Jay Indovino whose generosity and community service via Girls on the Run and Pedal the Cause respectively are hugely inspiring to him. It's great to hear Nicole’s story of falling love with agriculture and harvests and the routine and monotony of winemaking – incredibly familiar to Josh relative to breadmaking. They talk about the challenges of launching a business in Spain, making bets on yourself and how important it is to find a sense of place in what she’s doing. To learn about Nicole’s business and projects, please visit www.indovinowine.com. Lots of great stuff in this one. Let’s roll…Thank you, Gaslight for another great production!

On this week’s episode presented by Busey Bank , Josh is joined by Dave Boller, the GM of the United Football League’s St. Louis Battlehawks. Josh really enjoyed the opportunity to learn more about the structure of the league, how they’re helping develop players for the NFL and how the UFL is a bit of an experimental playground for innovative rules and technology. Josh and Dave talk about everything from the hub league model with all players living and training in Texas, fixed salaries for all positions and the all-hands-on-deck approach to launching a start-up league. It’s a lot like any entrepreneurial journey. Let’s roll…Thank you Gaslight for another great production!

KA-KAW!!! Want to know what's up next for the St. Louis Battlehawks?! Listen to episode 57 of the Baked-In Podcast present by Busey Bank where Josh chats with Dave Boller, the GM of the UFL St. Louis Battlehawks! Thank you Gaslight for another great production!

The story of 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗺𝗶𝘅 at Lion's Choice! It's amazing what can be accomplished when businesses work collaboratively with their teams - on all levels. Listen to the story behind the success of Lions Choice on Episode 56 of the Baked-In Podcast presented by Busey Bank as Josh chats with their CEO, Fred Burmer.

While you're setting your alarms tonight, put a reminder in for the Baked-In Podcast! Host, Josh Allen, founder & co-owner of Companion Baking Co, who leads the wholesale business- gives a unique perspective as someone who grew up in the wholesale food & business world. Josh sits down with industry innovators to uncover the unique ideas and values that are baked into their businesses and have led to extraordinary success. These conversations can be a catalyst for other leaders to discover, develop and deliver powerful results. Don't miss Episode 56 with Fred Burmer, CEO of Lion's Choice! episodes every Thursday! Listen on your favorite podcast app or watch on YouTube by visiting our link in bio!

From humble beginnings to a beloved family tradition. Did you know Eckert's Country Store & Farms has been inviting us to explore their farms & hand-pick their produce since 1963?! Listen to episode 55 of the Baked-In Podcast presented by Busey Bank as Josh chats with Chris Eckert, the president and CEO of Eckert's Country Store & Farms in Belleville, about the farm's journey from a roadside stand that began in 1910 to a destination & distributor for the St. Louis community. Thank you Gaslight for another great production! YouTube: | youtube.com/@bakedinpodcast Apple Podcasts: | apple.co/498nnPx Spotify | spoti.fi/46HFLND Official Site | bakedinpodcast.com

Still in the mood for BBQ?! Us too! September 6th - 8th is the Q in the Lou BBQ Festival! Brian Wahby of Eximius Productions, dishes out the details on Episode 53 of the Baked-In Podcast, presented by Busey Bank . From building a festival brand Q BBQ Fest to his vision for St. Louis, get ready to be inspired by Brian's entrepreneurial journey. Cheers to happiness, growth, and great conversation. Thank you Gaslight for another great production! YouTube: | youtube.com/@bakedinpodcast Apple Podcasts: | apple.co/498nnPx Spotify | spoti.fi/46HFLND Official Site | bakedinpodcast.com

BP - E54 - Lucas Farrell – Bucket List Creative

From sharing foodie adventures to helping local partners build their brand, STL Bucket List evolved into Bucket List Creative, a small agency of creative thinkers that sets itself apart in the social media landscape. Tune in as Josh catches up with Lucas Farrell, the founder of both STL Bucket List and Bucket List Creative, to discuss the state of social media, the rise of influencers, and the key to measuring success. Brought to you by Busey Bank , this episode dives deep into the world of social media and the power of creative branding. Don't miss it. Thank you Gaslight for another great production! YouTube: | youtube.com/@bakedinpodcast Apple Podcasts: | apple.co/498nnPx Spotify | spoti.fi/46HFLND Official Site | bakedinpodcast.com

BP - Quick Bite

Owning a small business comes with countless challenges, but the pride that comes from watching your employees, customers and family grow is immeasurable. In our bonus episode, we get a glimpse of how the next generation can learn and grow from the experiences of being part of a family business. Tune in for some valuable insights and heartwarming moments with our host Josh Allen and his 5 kids. Thank you Gaslight for another great production! Presented by Busey Bank YouTube: | youtube.com/@bakedinpodcast Apple Podcasts: | apple.co/498nnPx Spotify | spoti.fi/46HFLND Official Site | bakedinpodcast.com

"You can get in anywhere with a box of croissants" -Josh Allen What doors have opened for you by simply arriving with kindness? Listen to the Baked-In Bonus Episode with our host, Josh Allen, Co-founder of Companion Baking Co, along with his five kids talk about growing up in a small business family & how it has shaped their lives. Presented by Busey Bank, produced by GaslightSTL YouTube: | youtube.com/@bakedinpodcast Apple Podcasts: | apple.co/498nnPx Spotify | spoti.fi/46HFLND Official Site | bakedinpodcast.com

The Power of Community: How Business Owners Can Make a Difference On this week’s episode presented by Busey Bank, Josh has the chance to sit with Danni Eickenhorst and Steve Ewing of HuSTL Hospitality. From reviving Steve's Hot Dogs and The Fountain on Locust to expanding their brand, hear their inspiring story of growth, leadership and vision. Don't miss this one! Thank you Gaslight for another great production! YouTube: | youtube.com/@bakedinpodcast Apple Podcasts: | apple.co/498nnPx Spotify | spoti.fi/46HFLND Official Site | bakedinpodcast.com

Baked-In with Josh Allen

12/19/2024

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12/05/2024

11/21/2024

11/14/2024

11/08/2024

10/31/2024

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09/26/2024

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09/19/2024

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09/03/2024

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