The Problem This Episode Solves:
Hiring the wrong person can break your startup. This episode helps you avoid that.

Today’s guest is Allen Ackerman, founder of A-List Search and an experienced angel investor. Allen has worked with both big companies and fast-growing startups to help them find the right leaders. He’s not just about filling a job—he’s about matching culture with talent so businesses can grow stronger.

We dive into Allen’s journey—from working on Wall Street to spinning tracks as a DJ, to teaching, and finally founding A-List Search. His career path is anything but ordinary, and that’s exactly what makes his perspective so valuable.

Allen shares the secrets behind his discovery process, how he vets candidates to make sure they truly fit, and what startup founders often get wrong when they hire. He also talks about his role as an angel investor and how he spots winning teams.

Key Topics Covered:

• Allen’s career path and lessons learned
• The power of cultural alignment in hiring
• The biggest mistakes startups make when recruiting
• How thorough vetting transforms your team
• What Allen looks for when investing in a startup
• Why team building is your biggest growth lever

Guest Links & Resources:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: alistsearch.com
• LinkedIn: Allen Ackerman

Special Thanks & Recognition: Huge thanks to those who helped make this episode possible:

🎙 Carl Richards from Podcast Solutions Made Simple

🏡 Fred Crouch, co-host of the Property Wizard Podcast

🏢 Jovan Strika of @Hive – more than just coworking

🤝 Melanie Webber, my invaluable business partner

🎧 Wayne Pratt from Motive8U Inc.
Coach & podcast co-host
Hosts:

• Bernie Franzgrote – Connect with Bernie
• Wayne Pratt – Connect with Wayne

Sponsors:

🎬 Descript – Edit audio and video like a pro using AI. Try it here: descript

🏡 Property Wizard Podcast – Learn real estate investing from expert Fred Crouch: Listen here

🌐 Notionhive – Build powerful, beautiful websites and apps: notionhive

Want to connect or have questions?
We’d love to hear from you! Reach us at [email protected]

Disclaimer: Please note that the Knack 4 Business podcast episodes are meant solely for educational and general informational purposes. The information and opinions contained within are not intended to be professional advice on any subject matter. The thoughts, views, and opinions expressed by the participants are their own beliefs and do not represent the views of the podcast hosts or any affiliated organizations.

It is important to note that this podcast is not a replacement for consulting with certified experts in your area who possess knowledge of your unique situation. The hosts of the podcast, along with any participants or affiliated groups, do not take responsibility for any actions taken or not taken based on the information presented in this episode.

It is highly recommended that individuals seek guidance from their advisors in fields such as accounting, law, or other pertinent areas prior to undertaking any actions or making decisions that may impact their financial, legal, or other aspects of life.