Ground Up Growth

Standout Conversations from the Top Episodes of 2025

On this special episode of Ground Up Growth, we are combining some of the standout conversations from the top episodes of 2025. From life in the major leagues to home foreclosure to running a grocery store, each episode of Ground Up Growth has provided insight through real-life experience. Be sure to check out the full episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube.
Episodes Featured:
0:29 - Paul Hopper
7:44 - Austin LaSource
13:45 - Adam Black
21:35 - Tyler Moore
29:34 - Michael Dier
37:48 - Parker Sullivan
45:18 - Jason Ramsey
50:23 - George Malvaney
 
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Drew Hegi, John Hegi, & Wade Phillips - Owners of Brick City Drugs and Vital Care (MS)

In this episode of Ground Up Growth, Paul sits down with three owners behind two businesses: Brick City Drugs and Vital Care. Drew Hegi, John Hegi, and Wade Phillips share how they built their businesses from the ground up—balancing late-night side work, full-time jobs, and the grit it takes to stay the course. They unpack what real partnership looks like, how to grow with people you trust, and why slow, steady grinding often wins out over flashy shortcuts. It’s a conversation about commitment, collaboration, and betting on your own momentum. Full episodes are also available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
"Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

Joseph Simpson: Airline Pilot

This episode of Ground Up Growth features Joseph Simpson, Airline Pilot for SkyWest. Joseph shares more about his upbringing, journey to becoming a pilot, and what his day-to-day looks like. 
"Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

Morgan Springfield: Owner, Springfield Heating & Air

Morgan Springfield is the owner and founder of Springfield Heating & Air, a trusted HVAC company serving Jackson, Mississippi, and surrounding communities. With a hands-on approach and a commitment to honest, dependable service, Morgan has built his business from the ground up—one satisfied customer at a time. What started as a one-man operation and a few tools in the back of his truck has grown into a reputable company known for quality work, reliability, and genuine care for customers.
On this episode of Ground Up Growth, Morgan shares his journey of entrepreneurship, the lessons he’s learned about running a service-based business, and how building strong relationships has been the key to his success.
"Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

Don Clark: Attorney and Former Chairman, Butler Snow

Don Clark, Jr. is an Attorney and Former Chairman at Butler Snow LLP in Ridgeland, Mississippi, with decades of experience in public finance, government relations, and economic development law. He has played a key role in shaping Mississippi’s major finance and incentive legislation, including the creation of the Mississippi Development Bank and tax increment financing statutes. Known for his deep expertise and leadership, Clark has represented both public entities and major financial institutions in complex bond and development projects across the state.
 
"Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

Bridgforth Rutledge: Partner at Phelps and Entrepreneur

Bridgforth Rutledge is a partner at Phelps Dunbar in Jackson, where he leads the business practice group. He’s spent his career working on commercial real estate development, helping clients with everything from land deals and financing to building out major projects. Beyond real estate, he also serves as outside counsel for businesses, guiding them through day-to-day decisions and big transactions. With experience ranging from local developers to multi-state corporations, Bridgforth brings a practical, big-picture perspective to business and growth.
"Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

Alex Eaton: Owner, Aplós Simple Mediterranean

Alex Eaton is the founder and owner of Aplós, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant with locations in Jackson and Ridgeland, MS. His vision was to bring fresh, flavorful, and approachable dining to the community, drawing inspiration from the casual eateries of Italy, Greece, and the Middle East. Through his passion for great food, creative spaces, and community-driven dining, Alex continues to shape Mississippi’s culinary scene.
"Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

George Malvaney: Managing Partner, E3 Environmental Services

George Malvaney is the Managing Partner of E3 Environmental Services, where he leads with decades of experience in environmental compliance, emergency response, and business management. He is also the author of Cups Up: How I Organized a Klavern, Plotted a Coup, Survived Prison, Graduated College, Fought Polluters and Started a Business, a powerful memoir that chronicles his extraordinary journey of redemption and resilience. From a storied past to becoming a respected entrepreneur and environmental leader, George’s story reflects his belief in accountability, second chances, and the power of determination to create meaningful change.
 
"Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

Grant Ridgway: First Vice President, CBRE

As a First Vice President with Advisory & Transaction Services, Grant Ridgway focuses on commercial brokerage, financial analysis, market research and marketing strategies. His primary responsibilities in Jackson include direct leasing and sales of office and industrial space.  He is a fourth generation real estate broker in Jackson, Ms.
Since opening the Jackson office, Grant has participated in 1,400 transactions totaling approximately $1.25 billion in value.
 
"Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.

Stephen Cook: Owner, Southern Land & Timber

Long-time mentor to Paul, Stephen Cook joins the podcast for episode 13. Stephen is the Owner of Southern Land & Timber. Hear more about Stephen's journey to starting the business and the ins and outs of the timber industry. "Ground Up Growth" shares insightful stories from entrepreneurs and business leaders. This podcast is hosted by Paul Hopper, a Mississippi real estate broker and developer with over $1B in company sales. Join Paul as he dives into personal & business strategies, entrepreneurial insights and growing pains faced along the way. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, "Ground Up Growth" delivers actionable advice and inspiring stories to help fuel your journey and build success from the ground up.