Success Stories
Seeking Partnerships for Growth
A client found that launching a full-scale brewery and restaurant required more than just great recipes; it demanded sound business planning and financial preparation. They turned to consulting with Dr. Rhoades, a trusted consultant for expert guidance.
Rhoades worked closely with the couple to revise their business plan and prepare financial projections, helping them present a compelling case to lenders and investors. With his support, the clients were able to secure funding needed to move forward.
Bumpy Start but Ended in Success
Driven by a shared love for ice cream and desserts, two sisters-in-law started an ice cream shop. While today the ice cream shop attracts visitors from around the world, its bumpy start almost kept this town’s gem from opening.
They encountered numerous health and zoning regulations that threatened to derail their dream. Undeterred, they sought help and began working with a consultant, Dr. Rhoades. He provided essential guidance, assisting them in navigating zoning issues, creating a strategic plan, conducting financial analysis, and implementing key business and marketing strategies, enabling them to open in 2016.
However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic presented new challenges. Like many small businesses, they struggled to survive. They adapted with curbside delivery but soon realized they needed further support to stay afloat. Once again, they turned to Rhoades, who helped them secure local grants to sustain their operations. In the summer of 2021, after struggling to pay bills and working without pay, they sought advice from Rhoades again. Initially planned to sell the business, a financial analysis showed they would gain little from selling the buildings and equipment. Instead, they decided to keep the business, raising prices and cutting store hours, with just two employees (the owners) running the shop. In 2022, they received a major boost when they were selected for HGTV’s Home Town Take Over. The renovation and national exposure helped transform the business into a beloved destination, drawing customers from around the world. Rhoades still works with them today, monitoring their growth through financial analysis and working on various marketing strategies.
Building a Business from the Ground Up
A client started their business in 2012 from their kitchen Table. The business operated as a fully mobile drug testing center, serving clients wherever they were needed.
After a year, the business transitioned into a small office to offer walk-in testing. As demand increased, they hired staff, expanded into a larger facility, and eventually purchased their own building with the help of Dr. Rhoades in getting a loan. Throughout each phase of growth, Rhoades provided guidance.
As the company expanded, they were faced with challenges related to human resources, compliance, marketing, and financial planning. Rhoades provided ongoing support, including financial analysis, regulatory guidance, and access to training seminars. The business continued to grow, opening an additional office near an International Airport to serve airlines, transportation companies, and other employers. The business has since been approached to expand again because of its 24/7 service model.
Today, the business employs six full-time and three part-time staff members. The company has conducted more than 21,000 drug tests and continues to grow steadily year after year. In addition to drug testing, it now offers fingerprinting, DNA testing, and specialized training services. The client is a nationally respected speaker and author that focuses on workplace safety and impairment recognition. His book, which Rhoades edited, and his new website support his mission to help employers maintain safe, compliant workplaces. With over 21 years of partnership with Rhoades, the business stands as a long-term example of sustained growth through expertise, commitment, and trusted advising.