Founders in Full
Founders in Full is a podcast about what it really takes to build a business—especially in the world of FamTech.
Hosted by Dan Ritzke, a Fractional CMO with nearly 20 years of experience (danritzke.com) each episode features honest, behind‑the‑scenes conversations with founders building companies that help families thrive. You’ll hear how they’ve shaped their brands, reached their audiences, and figured out what actually drives growth.
While most episodes spotlight FamTech founders, you’ll also find a handful of earlier conversations (and the occasional new one) with founders outside the space—because great lessons can come from anywhere.
This isn’t theory or hype. It’s real founders making real decisions.
If you’re building something of your own—especially in FamTech—you’ll walk away with stories, strategies, and practical takeaways you can put to work right away.
Founders in Full
Mike Valente - Renovation Sells
In this episode of Founders in Full, I talk with Mike Valente, founder and CEO of Renovation Sells, a fast-growing franchise business that helps homeowners prepare their homes for sale through smart, design-driven renovations.
Mike shares how he went from hauling beer on Wrigleyville rooftops to launching a remodeling business—and ultimately building a national brand by finding a niche and committing to it.
We dive into:
- The winding journey from inside sales to real estate, construction, and entrepreneurship
- How Renovation Sells turned quick, pre-sale upgrades into a scalable business model
- Why finding your niche isn’t always immediate—but it changes everything once you do
- The role branding and positioning played in validating their model and attracting franchisees
- What it takes to grow fast while protecting the brand and supporting a national network of owners
If you’re a founder, builder, or just figuring out how to scale the thing you’ve already started, this episode is packed with insights you’ll want to take notes on.
Learn more about Renovation Sells: https://www.renovationsells.com
Connect with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/renovatetosell/
Connect with me (Dan Ritzke):
I’m a Fractional CMO who helps FamTech companies position their brand, sharpen their messaging, create marketing strategies that drive growth, and oversee execution to make sure those plans turn into results.
👉 Visit my website: www.danritzke.com
👉 Connect with me on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ritzke
Apply to be on the podcast or nominate a founder:
👉 Visit my website: www.danritzke.com/podcast