Episode Overview

In this episode of Building the Biz, Shane sits down with acquisition entrepreneur Jeremy Hunka, owner of Summit Cabinet Coatings. Jeremy shares an unfiltered look at what happens after the deal closes — from debt pressure and people-pleasing to redefining leadership and learning where faith truly fits in business ownership.

This conversation is a candid exploration of buying versus building, the emotional toll of leadership, and the freedom that comes from stepping into the right seat.

Key Topics Covered

• Why Jeremy chose acquisition over starting from scratch
• The reality of being an operator-owner vs. a true owner
• How debt impacts cash flow, decision-making, and leadership stress
• The hidden cost of people-pleasing in business
• Faith as daily dependence, not just belief
• Transitioning from visionary-integrator to owner
• Ethical vs. redemptive business practices
• Using EOS and knowing when to bring in an implementer
• Designing a role that fits your strengths as a leader

Notable Quotes

• “Every hard day was made harder by a three-hour commute.”
• “Faith went from something I had to something I depended on daily.”
• “I learned I’m more naturally an owner than an operator.”
• “Businesses this size are always hairy — you just have to decide which hair you’re comfortable with.”

Who This Episode Is For

• Entrepreneurs considering buying a business
• Owners feeling stretched in day-to-day operations
• Leaders navigating people-pleasing tendencies
• Faith-driven business owners seeking alignment
• Anyone questioning whether they’re in the right seat

Connect with Jeremy

Jeremy Hunka is an acquisition entrepreneur and owner of Summit Cabinet Coatings, based in Fort Collins, Colorado. His journey spans chemistry, finance, commercial real estate, and now small business ownership — bringing a thoughtful, grounded perspective to leadership and growth.

Tags:

Entrepreneurship, Faith, Acquisition Entrepreneur, People Pleasing, Summit Cabient Coatings, Marketing, Building the Biz Podcast

Shane Bauman is a Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). Securities products and advisory services offered through PAS, member FINRA, SIPC. Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. RISE is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. This podcast is for informational purposes only. Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or RISE and opinions stated are their own. Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents and employees do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult your tax, legal, or accounting professional regarding your individual situation. 8714290.1 Exp. 1/28