What legal mistakes destroy small businesses before they ever get started?

In this episode of Built From Scratch, host Donald Dunn sits down with South Florida business law attorney Matthew Fornaro to break down what every entrepreneur MUST know before launching a company.

With over two decades of experience in commercial litigation, contract disputes, construction law, and business formation, Matthew explains:

• Why most startups sign dangerous contracts

• When business disputes turn into lawsuits

• How to protect your LLC or corporation from costly mistakes

• The biggest compliance errors entrepreneurs make

• Why skipping legal formalities can destroy your company

• When to settle vs. when to litigate

If you're launching a startup, running a small business, or transitioning into entrepreneurship (especially veterans starting businesses), this episode could save you serious time, money, and stress.

Starting a business isn’t just about passion — it’s about protection.

Connect with Matthew Fornaro:

Website: https://fornarolegal.com

Subscribe for more real conversations about entrepreneurship, leadership, and building from scratch.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. fornerolegal.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. Barix Media Incorporated
2. Kaufman Foundation
3. Jim Moran Institute of Florida State University

What if a simple annoyance turned into a patented innovation?

On this episode of Built From Scratch, Donald Dunn sits down with inventor and engineer Bob LeBay, the creator of the only drink coaster engineered to truly prevent condensation spills.

After a coaster stuck to his Manhattan glass and ruined his silk tie, Bob decided to solve a problem most people just tolerate. What followed was a journey through engineering design, patent law, manufacturing challenges, and launching a family-run business that has already sold over fifty thousand units.

In this episode, we discuss:

• How a simple design flaw sparked a patented invention

• The science behind capillary action and condensation control

• The full U.S. patent process (and what it really costs)

• Manufacturing in Asia vs. the United States

• Why business-to-business sales are dominating the market

• Building a multigenerational family business

• The real size of the global coaster market

Bob recently secured a final U.S. utility patent and is positioning his product in a market worth over two billion dollars globally.

If you enjoy entrepreneurship, product design, engineering innovation, or startup stories — this episode delivers practical insight and inspiration.

🔗 Learn more: https://ultimatecoasterco.com

🛒 Available on Amazon

Subscribe for more founder stories, veteran-led entrepreneurship, and real conversations about building from scratch.

#Entrepreneurship #Invention #StartupStory #Engineering #PatentProcess #BusinessToBusiness

Links referenced in this episode:

1. ultimatecoasterco.com
2. amazon.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. Ultimate Coaster
2. Amazon
3. Walmart
4. Target
5. Heineken
6. NRA
7. 4H

What is the difference between a career and a calling? Why do so many successful people still feel unfulfilled in their work?

In this episode, we break down the critical distinction between chasing income and pursuing purpose. Scott Maderer explains how a career is often about making a living, while a calling is about how you are uniquely wired to contribute, serve, and find meaning. The conversation explores why the “perfect job” rarely exists, how mindset shapes fulfillment, and why aligning your time, talents, and decisions with what truly matters can transform your life.

If you’ve ever felt stuck, restless, or uncertain about your path — even while doing well on paper — this discussion will challenge how you think about success, work, and purpose.

Topics include:

• Career vs calling explained

• How to find meaningful and fulfilling work

• Why success doesn’t always equal happiness

• Mindset and behavior shifts for life direction

• Overcoming internal resistance and doubt

Perfect for entrepreneurs, professionals, and anyone questioning whether they’re living the life they were meant to live.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. inspiredstewardship.com/scratch

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. Barracks Media Incorporated
2. Inspired Stewardship