From Startup to $1B Exit—Why America Still Leads for Entrepreneurs
Main Street Matters with Elaine Parker and Alfredo Ortiz explores the intersection of small business and government policy. With more than 90 million Americans either owning or depending on small business for their household income, policies like taxes, regulations, and access to credit have a huge effect on the American Dream. Elaine and Alfredo talk with small business owners, government officials and office holders, and experts about everything from education to the labor market on this interesting and entertaining podcast.
Wednesday, February 25, 2026
What does it really take to build a billion-dollar business—and why do global entrepreneurs still choose America to do it?
In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker sits down with serial entrepreneur Chad Zani, whose journey spans continents, industries, and multiple high-growth ventures. From buying his first home at 19 to scaling a company to a $1 billion exit, Chad shares the hard-earned lessons behind building, scaling, and reinventing businesses across Australia and the United States.
Chad offers a unique, unfiltered perspective on:
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The key differences between doing business in Australia vs. America
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How pro-growth policies, tax cuts, and deregulation fuel entrepreneurship
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Why the U.S. remains the best country in the world to start and scale a business
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The cultural mindset shift that separates thriving entrepreneurs from the rest
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His move from California to Florida—and what it reveals about business climates in America
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The future of entrepreneurship, including the rise of functional beverages and health-driven innovation
Plus, Chad shares insights from his latest venture, Avarna, and why the next wave of business success will come from reimagining everyday products in healthier, smarter ways.
If you’re an entrepreneur, small business owner, or anyone passionate about economic freedom and opportunity, this episode is packed with real-world insights you won’t hear anywhere else.
👉 Subscribe to Main Street Matters for more conversations amplifying America’s small business voice.
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