Skyman and the Bug

About Skyman and the Bug

Join Nike Roach (CDO of Solutions Afoot) and Josh Schuminsky as they explore the intersection of cutting-edge technology and authentic relationship building. Each month, "Skyman and the Bug" brings you real stories from the trenches of business transformation, featuring veteran entrepreneurs, tech innovators, and industry leaders who've learned that the best solutions aren't just about code – they're about connection. From military leadership principles applied to tech teams, to HIPAA-compliant healthcare solutions that restore the human touch, we dive deep into how custom database solutions and genuine relationships create lasting business success. Whether you're a veteran transitioning to tech, a business owner drowning in spreadsheets, or an entrepreneur looking to scale with integrity, this podcast delivers practical insights wrapped in authentic storytelling

Publisher

Solutions Afoot

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

10 Nov 2025

Latest episode

22 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

32 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   22 Oct 2026

   How to Build Trust Before You Raise Money

   Most founders think funding starts with a pitch deck. It doesn't. Justin Starbird reveals why the real work happens before you ever ask for money - by building a community that already cares if you win. Nike "The Bug" Roach and Josh Schuminsky sit down with Justin, CEO of The Aebli Group, for a sharp conversation about what actually moves capital, customers, and trust. If you're a founder, CEO, or operator trying to raise money, grow a company, or get your story to land, this episode is packed with practical insight. Justin shares how a mentor named Aebli shaped both his career and the name of his firm, Tag, and why transparency and authenticity are the foundation of every campaign that works. He breaks down the difference between ad-first fundraising and community-first fundraising, why your existing advocates matter more than cold traffic, and how to identify who already has skin in your success. You'll discover: Why the best fundraising campaigns start with a community audit, not a media buy How founder-led companies can use podcasts, newsletters, and advocates to build momentum before launch The "no asshole policy" that helps Justin filter clients and protect trust Why great storytelling comes from listening, not just writing How Tag approaches everything from equity crowdfunding to B2B growth campaigns Justin also shares real examples from rare disease diagnostics, rocket propulsion, and robotics, showing how the same relationship-first strategy works across radically different industries. And if you've ever wondered what separates a campaign that converts from one that quietly disappears, this conversation makes the answer painfully clear. This is essential listening for founders, marketers, and mission-driven leaders who need more than hype. If you want better relationships, better messaging, and a better shot at traction, start here. Guest: Justin Starbird is CEO of The Aebli Group, also known as TAG, where he helps founder-led and mission-driven companies raise capital, build authority, and scale through strategic marketing and communication support.

2. 

   1 Oct 2026

   How to Build Career Opportunities in the Middle East: Lessons from an Air Force Veteran

   How to Build Career Opportunities in the Middle East: Lessons from an Air Force Veteran on Relationships, Culture, and Business Growth In this episode of Skyman and a Bug, Nikkei Roach and Josh Schuminsky sit down with Bennie Smith to explore what it takes to build a career overseas in the Middle East. Bennie shares his journey from Air Force aircraft maintenance to defense contracting, IT, and project leadership in Saudi Arabia, offering practical insight into cultural differences, family dynamics, relationship-building, and professional success across borders. The conversation covers how to navigate business in the Gulf, why empathy and cultural awareness matter, and what North American professionals should know before pursuing opportunities in Saudi Arabia and beyond. Bennie also explains where growth is happening now, including infrastructure, healthcare, technology, and defense contracting. If you’re a business leader, veteran, or professional considering international opportunities, this episode offers real-world advice on adapting, leading, and thriving in a global environment.

3. 

   24 Sept 2026

   Franchising Is Not Passive - The Truth Most Buyers Miss

   What if the fastest path to business ownership is not starting from scratch, but buying into a proven system? Nike "the bug" Roach and Josh Schuminsky sit down with franchise consultant and multi-unit owner Bivinder Pal to break down how franchising actually works - and why so many people misunderstand it. Pal has built and managed franchises across multiple industries, from Firehouse Subs to hospitality, and he shares the hard-won lessons that can save aspiring owners years of trial and error. If you are thinking about leaving corporate, adding locations, or choosing the right business model for your lifestyle, this conversation shows you how to think like an owner before you sign anything. You'll discover: Why franchising is far bigger than restaurants, with opportunities in home services, senior care, health and wellness, spas, consulting, and even dog grooming How franchising can function like a crash course in business ownership, with built-in training, marketing support, technology, and scaling systems The biggest mistake new owners make: unrealistic expectations about time, money, and what "passive income" really means How Pal evaluates whether a franchise fits a candidate's goals, personality, schedule, and long-term lifestyle Why expansion too fast can create burnout, and how he rebuilt his portfolio around sustainability, support, and structure

Contact Skyman and the Bug

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.