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The Sunday Series (79), with Mark Brodinsky

August 30, 2015 By markbrodinsky Leave a Comment

Never give up. Never lose faith. Never say die.

That’s the mark of a champion. Against all odds, when the chips are down and it seems hope is lost, you find a way to push through.

The most successful, significant individuals you will ever meet do just that, find a way to survive.

Everyone has a story.

I am Mark Brodinsky and this is The Sunday Series.


The Sunday Series (79): UNWINED & Unbroken

unwined candle top

One phone call can change a life.

For Chris Rodriguez it was the call from the owner of Blue Devil Products that fine day in September of 2012. “The owner of the company contacted me while I was on vacation with my family”, says Chris, “and told me he was selling the company. Unbeknownst to me he had been working on this for about six months.”

Chris’s reaction was less than complimentary. “Most people operate out of fear and greed, I was operating out of both that day and said things I should not have said and got fired. I didn’t just blow up the bridge that day, I blew up everything the bridge was attached to. In an instant, thirteen years of working and getting myself and my family into a comfortable position, in one phone call, was gone.”

The call rocked Chris’s world. “I went through stages of grief, like I lost my spouse or my true identity.” We sold everything we had in Charleston, South Carolina and moved back to Maryland. For about a year-and-a-half I tried several entrepreneurial things that didn’t work out. I had a nice pay out from the former company, but after about a year-and-a-half  I told my wife Jen it was time to put on my big boy pants and get out there and get another job. I was living off the payout I got and feeling sorry for myself, I spent a lot of time doing this. The crazy thing is I had cried out to the Lord just a few months before I got fired, saying I am so unhappy doing what I do, please get me out of this, let your will be done, not mine. I believe He actually orchestrated the whole call on that day in September where I blew up and it was over.”

Chris Rodriguez & Family

Chris Rodriguez & Family

But it was a blessing in disguise, when one door closes, another always opens. In this case Jen Rodriguez was standing behind the door, with a candle in her hand, one she had purchased at a local store. A candle called Unwined – a pleasant smelling wax seated firmly in the bottom of a recycled wine bottle. What’s better than wine and a long-burning, fresh-fragrance candle? Apparently the look and the smell was intoxicating enough for Chris to decide this was his next endeavour.

“A light bulb went off and I said I’m going to help build this company”, says Chris. I think if you poll the most successful people in the world most don’t have college educations, the word you will repeatedly hear is determined. I’m a guy who has developed pleasant determination. I’ve got that entrepreneurial blood boiling in me and I never doubted my ability. One thing God has given me is a mind for business. I can take it from nothing and make it something.”

Chris quickly learned that the Unwined candles were not a major chain, but instead being created in one man’s garage  in Sykesville, Maryland. And isn’t that where some of the best and most brilliant ideas are born? Anyone ever hear of Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak and the Apple computer?  Chris knew he could take this and make it “something”. He knew there was another company with a similar product, but he also knew he could take this project and push it to five times the revenue of what the other company was doing.  Like Apple vs IBM 🙂

Dave Neith & Family

Dave Neith & Family

Chris knew Unwined only needed a plan and a great connection. “Before we partnered up we needed to get to know each other personally”, says Chris. “And we spent about two months doing just that with our families as well to make sure it was a good fit in that respect.” The relationship that developed felt and looked as good as the Unwined candles being developed so Chris signed on in August of 2014, a little more than one year ago.

Understand the most precarious position of any new business is that first 12 months, that first year, make it or break it time. Any small business knows this first-hand, especially as it gets going.

making unwined

Chris’s first move was a marketing overhaul for the fledgling company, a new label and a new website and then he spent the next five months doing the one thing what can define the success of any business, marriage or other partnership – he built, nurtured, cultivated and even leaned on his relationships. “My goal was to establish partnerships with places like Pottery Barn etc and make this a nationwide distribution system.” Chris invested his own dollars into the business and acquired another partner in Brett Austin. In January of this year they moved the business from Dave’s garage and 200 square foot shop into a 7,000 square foot warehouse in Randallstown. In the last six months of 2014, as Chris was busy cultivating relationships and orchestrating the reworking of Unwined the company did $45,000 in revenue, since March of this year, when Chris says this deal “really kicked off” revenue kicked up from $45,000 to $290,000.

Unwined_2

(http://www.unwinedcandles.com/)

But as with any small business, there comes a defining moment. That moment is now.

Candle season – really from September to March – is on the horizon, but so are the storm clouds. The costs of creating and distributing Unwined are substantial, eating into revenue and forcing some tough cutbacks. Much like doing what’s right for your family, sometimes sacrifices must be made and Unwined is making tough decisions to keep moving forward.

Chris says there is a lot of talk about “courage, fear, anxiety and faith in God right now, but I know God will come through and take care of us. I’m not going to quit, I’ve never quit at anything in my life. My faith in God helped orchestrate all of this – He always does. Here was this guy making candles in his garage, and it might not mean we all become millionaires but that’s not the point. It is to touch people, to love people to make them feel good. There is no plan B, in business if you ever have a plan B ,(meaning this is what we’ll do if it doesn’t work), then it takes your focus off building this business. If it doesn’t work, it is simply a springboard to something else.”

(Check out the Unwined Video: http://youtu.be/yJqBtjrNFm4)

Chris continues, “but we’ve got the passion, it’s a great idea and there is no question in my mind this will blow up and be huge.” Reorders are already on the rise for Unwined and the goal right now is to secure the “business backyard” which is in Maryland and continue to look to go big. Chris has managed to find a way to get the candles to celebrities like Reba McEntire and is looking to go after other big fish, who with one small splash could create a wave that would create a Tsunami of good for Unwined. People like Ellen, Oprah, Taylor Swift. What is a better magic threesome then a successful woman, some wine and her favorite candle?

unwined stands alone

Chris says Unwined is just one big deal away. The one deal that covers the nut for the company and allows them to breathe a little. The one account that covers the costs every month and allows them to grow.

On a personal note let me just say this – this blog is about courage, hope inspiration, overcoming obstacles, starting small and living the life of your dreams – and just by chance, I met Chris, Brett and Dave – and they deserve this shot. Great companies are defined by great people – these are some of the best – they believe, they have passion, they have faith, they have a vision, a mission and just as importantly they have a really cool product. That “one big deal” would be a game changer. If there was ever a company deserving Unwined is it. These candles, ones my wife and I have purchased and that burn in my own home, bringing warmth, welcome scents and feelings of peace and comfort.

(https://www.facebook.com/unwinedcandles?fref=ts)

And so the hard work continues. Remember there is no doubt a business is defined by process, product and its people. Chris says he is all about those three things: “you hope to have the right people in place, but if the process and product is right, the people will change as well. What we’ve been working on, and it’s almost there, is defining the process to make it happen. Once all those three work there is no way you won’t be successful.”

Any business, one you put your heart, soul, dollars and faith into is like raising a child. It is your baby. And Chris, Dave and Brett want nothing more than to see this baby grow and change the world and touch people in its path. Faith in God, belief in the product, the process and the people – and maybe most importantly the journey – getting a chance to do what you love – to attract the same goodwill and good feeling you are trying to emanate by creating something with passion which enhances the life experience of another person.

Something to help us all get Unwined. Good luck gentlemen, the world is waiting.

Until next time, thanks for taking the time

Mark

Mark Brodinsky, Author, Blogger, Podcaster, Speech Writer, Emmy Winner, USHEALTH Advisors
(http://www.prweb.com/releases/markbrodinsky/072015/prweb12862708.htm)

Author: The #1 Amazon Best-Seller: It Takes 2. Surviving Breast Cancer: A Spouse’s Story
(http://www.spouses-story.com/)

Feedback and story ideas are always welcome and encouraged. Leave a comment on the blog, reach out on social media or e-mail: markbrodinsky@gmail.com

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Mark Brodinsky
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Blog Reviews

Love seeing new blogs hit the ground running like this one (by a dad no less), but I also urge anyone vaguely interested in blogging to stay tuned, I am. Good luck on your journey – glad that I am along for the ride.

Rachel Blaufeld

Great blog Mark! I always appreciate reading what you have to say. You are very gifted and talented and hopefully someday you’ll not just blog, but write a book.

 Stephen Koncurat

I’m definitely along for the ride. We’ve all seen how much damage the written word can inflict. More positive writers are needed. And I love how you are using your personal experiences – those with your wife and children – and your gift of writing to open eyes and to inspire others.

Victoria Endicott

Absolutely beautifully written! The girls in your life must be very proud of you. Thanks for sharing Mark, I look forward to reading more!

Gina Glick Jolson

Very shortly this site will be famous amid all blogging and site-building users, due to it’s pleasant posts.

Leila Galloway

Absolutely beautiful! Are you at all thinking of penning a book? You’ve got a fan base out there that really thinks you should Mark. You write so eloquently. Glad that I got onto this site.

Marilyn Lefkowitz

Mark, You are truly a gifted writer and obviously, a special father and husband . Always a delight to read your words.

I’m speechless…beautiful words flow from your heart just like a gentle waterfall into a tranquil stream… thank you so much for the friend request I was blessed the day I clicked confirm.

Lynne Turner Dorsey

From your first writing in 4th grade entitled “People” which was published in the school newspaper, you have always been able to write. Never more so than when you started “Caringbridge” and now your blog, everyone who reads says what a wonderful writer you are. Our DREAM for you is to become an author and encourage people every day. You are by the far the best and we hope and pray you reach your dream.

Bonnie Brodinsky

I know you always thank us for reading but I would like to say thanks for writing.

Stuart Abell

Great piece. You are an inspiration!

Rob Commodari

Mark I just wanted to let you know that you are succeeding in your “ultimate goal”. I have gained so much from your blogs. I look forward to reading them for the special lift that they give me. Thank you.

Amy F.

I love waking up and starting my day with my coffee and your blog! It a great way to start my day with positive uplifting thoughts!! It puts me in a positive frame of mind throughout the day and allows me to reflect on my personal life, make changes, and grow !!!

Gayle Blank

You are quite talented Mark. Thanks for sharing!

Cynthia

I always look forward to your Blog Mark. Thanks for sharing and as you always do, make it a great / remarkable Day!

Chuck Connolly

Thanks for your Blog Mark. It is fun, encouraging and a nice break from a day full of ups and downs.

Jackie Hetrick

With my busy schedule, there is (sadly) little time for reading. But I have two must-reads every time I come across them, the sports section and your blogs. Keep inspiring and following your dream!

Ed Nemec

Mark, you are a truly remarkable individual. You do speak from your heart, I can’t wait to read your book. You are an incredible writer.

Debbie Press

Mark, I am glad I clicked on your post this morning, which lead me to your writing, your goal.
Would like to connect. This speaks to me.

Aileen Braverman

I can’t wait to read the book. I have followed all the blogs and feel so good that I know u guys. You make me cry but you make me laugh too. All the very best to you!

Beverlee Rendelman

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WOW!!! It Takes 2 is a must read for anyone who has known someone diagnosed with cancer or other life threatening disease. This is the real story of a family lead by an incredible woman, Debbie Brodinsky, who took radical steps to beat the breast cancer beast. The story is told by her husband, Mark Brodinsky, through journal entries he kept starting with diagnosis through one year cancer free. This author's unique ability to pour his heart out onto the page draws you in from the beginning and holds you until the very end.

Thanks to Mark and Debbie Brodinsky for this gift...I have a new perspective on what it means to be a breast cancer survivor. You are a hero, Debbie Brodinsky!

TeeBThree
September 25, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

This book gives a heartfelt, in depth description of what it is like to go through breast cancer with the one you love. It is beautifully written and I felt as though I was living it with them! I highly recommend this book!

Jgs17
September 24, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

In It Takes 2, Mark Brodinsky windows us into his world where his wife, the cancer patient, is not the only victim. Part journal, part roadmap, It Takes 2 goes to the real humanity of facing the mortality of one's better half. Mark's candid perspective, love, and fierce intention resonate with hope in a story which is about much more than cancer. Mark himself is perhaps the most heroic character for the way he appreciates this life and so many of us in it...as he says, "thanks for caring."

Réné Pallace
September 24, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

It Takes Two: A Spouse's Story by Mark Brodinsky should be read by every person who is experiencing serious illness or injury or by a loved one of someone who is experiencing either of those situations. The book is an eloquent testament to the power of love and the healing energy derived from the belief that things will get better. There is not one word of "poor me" from the author or his wife who suffered breast cancer and the radical surgery she elected to have to beat the cancer. Rather, the book is a celebration of the courage displayed by them both in seeing it through.

The book also encourages readers to speak and write down their true feelings and be validated in them. John Mackovic writing in the Palm Springs, CA Desert Sun on November 2, 2013 quoted author and artist Doe Zantamata who said, " To be happy, you don't have to do anything new. You just have to remember how to believe again...Believe everything good is possible. Believe in your dreams. Believe in people. Believe in love. But most of all...believe in yourself." The author, his wife, their family and extended family and friends never stopped believing in his wife's recovery, and I think, in themselves. Read this book and believe.

Paul A. Riecks
November 4, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

This book is a must read for anyone with a family member with breast cancer. It takes you through the spouse's perspective from diagnosis to recovery. Mark journaled his wife's journey and put all of his emotions out there. It is beautifully written and inspiring to anyone going through breast cancer. Thank you, Mark for sharing Debbie's story.

Jmu1109
October 23, 2013

ittakes2_reviews_2

A friend recommended this book. This was a great perspective of a man standing beside his partner and passing along to the reader fear, hope, useful information and a broader story than his own. I loved Vinnie the tattoo artist. This is a great book. Thanks for sharing, Mark and "thanks for caring"

Blahsan

ittakes2_reviews_2

This book is a must read. What sets this book apart from other books about surviving breast cancer is that it is told by the husband and his point of view, not from the survivor. At times sad, at times poignant but even through the worst of it you can always feel the love he has for his wife, her strength and the strength of their extended family and friends. The posts that are included from their friends and family lets you really into the heart and strength of the family. I would recommend this book to anyone who is currently going through this, whether you are the person or the caregiver. I also recommend this book to anyone who has a friend that has been or is currently going through their fight now. It was an eye opener for me.

L. Bogash
Seven Valleys, PA

ittakes2_reviews_2

There isn't a shortage of books about breast cancer, but most are written from the perspective of the person who has battled cancer or a physician or other expert. What an enlightening experience to read about breast cancer from a husband and caregiver's perspective! Not only does the author give us insight into his wife's experience and emotions, but he openly shares and reveals his love, compassion, support, and, yes, sometimes anger at the disease as he stands by his wife's side during their journey to beat the beast. Your story may not be the same, but I guarantee if you have a loved one battling cancer, you won't go wrong reading It Takes 2.

 PattiM
September 25, 2013

 

ittakes2_reviews_2

From the moment I opened this book I never stopped reading. Mark invites the reader to come along on this journey that his family went through. I cried, laughed and learned so much. This book will give comfort and knowledge to those going through similar situations. Most importantly, Mark and his family never give up. They get knocked down and get right back up. They fought cancer together and with their strength, determination and will to prevail... They do!

 Jenny Schloss 

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