Pro Series with Eric Dillman

Latest Episodes:

EP. 194 From Sawmill to Global Luxury: The Paul Grothouse Story Jun 06, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Pro Series Podcast, I sit down with Paul Grothouse, founder of Grothouse—an international leader in luxury wood surfaces.

From launching his business with a portable sawmill in 1997 to building a brand trusted by the world’s top architects and designers, Paul shares how he combined his Mechanical Engineering background, consulting experience, and passion for craftsmanship to redefine what’s possible in wood design.

We dive into:
🔹 His journey from Lutron Electronics to launching Grothouse
🔹 The innovation behind their solid wood countertops and custom finishes
🔹 How sustainability and technology are shaping the future of design
🔹 Why investing in vocational education is crucial for the next generation

This is a must-listen for designers, makers, and anyone inspired by craftsmanship, purpose, and legacy.

Listen now to Episode 193 of the Pro Series Podcast — available wherever you get your podcasts.

#ProSeriesPodcast #PaulGrothouse #LuxuryDesign #Woodworking #Craftsmanship #DesignInnovation #SustainableDesign #InteriorDesign

OFF TOPIC EP. 113 Stories That Stick, George Strait, and Country Hits of the Week Jun 02, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Off Topic, we're diving into what actually keeps people watching your Instagram Stories — and why posting up to 5 a day might be your new secret weapon for retention. I break down key stats from Social Insider and share tips to hook your audience before they swipe away.

Then, I’m giving you my honest review of the George Strait concert — from the setlist to the stage energy and why the King of Country still has it. Finally, we wrap it all up with this week’s Country Music Weekly — the latest songs, rising stars, and what’s been on repeat.

Hit play, and let’s get into it.

EP. 193 Owning the Lane: Coaching, Legacy & Leadership with Dudley Duncan May 29, 2025

Show notes

This week on the Pro Series Podcast, I’m joined by Dudley Duncan — a true legend in the swimming world with over 50 years of coaching experience, a Hall of Famer, and the author of The Art of Swimming and The Game of Racing.

We explore what it means to coach with purpose, lead with ownership, and build a lasting legacy in and out of the pool. From starting and owning a club to writing the books that are shaping the next generation of swim coaches, Dudley’s insight is a masterclass in leadership and dedication.

If you're passionate about mentorship, sports leadership, or simply becoming the best in your lane — this one’s for you.

🎙️ Available now on all platforms.

OFF TOPIC EP. 112 The Future of Clout: AI Creators & Why Shares Matter More Than Likes May 25, 2025

Show notes

This week on Off Topic, we're diving into the wild future of influence—and trust me, it's getting weirder by the day.

First up: AI influencers. Yup, virtual personalities are landing real brand deals and growing massive audiences—without even existing. Are we entering the post-human creator economy? And what does that mean for real creators like us?

Then, we break down the death of the like button and why shares are the new clout currency. Instagram, TikTok, and X are changing the game—and creators who don’t pivot might get left behind.

PLUS: I shout out a new podcast you should absolutely be tuning into , and I give a quick update on what’s going on in the world of Country Weekly—music, headlines, and all the southern drama you didn’t know you needed.

If you’re a content creator, social media junkie, or just love watching internet culture evolve in real time—this one’s for you.

EP. 192 Inside the Future of Cooking with SKS Appliances, John Russo May 22, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, I sit down with John Russo, National Training Manager at SKS, to explore how SKS is transforming the appliance industry. From cutting-edge technology to unmatched flexibility, SKS is built for a new generation of forward-thinking cooks—Technicureans™—who value innovation as much as flavor. Discover how SKS is keeping people True to Food with smart, built-in appliances that elevate the cooking experience like never before.

OFF TOPIC EP. 111 Talking Babies, TikTok Comebacks & Country Drops May 18, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, we’re diving into everything trending — starting with the rise (and weirdness) of the Talking Baby Podcaster trend that’s taking over social media. I also share my thoughts on Morgan Wallen’s brand new album, the latest releases in country music, and yes... I’m officially back on TikTok

EP. 191 Inside Meerkat Companies with Zach Rapaport May 15, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, we’re joined by Zach Rapaport — founder and principal of Meerkat Companies, a powerhouse firm managing over $40 million in hospitality and wellness real estate projects across six states and countries. With over 200,000 square feet currently under development, Zach brings a rare perspective that blends hands-on construction experience with strategic development leadership.

We dive into Zach’s journey from working on job sites with general contractors to leading development for brands like Life House Hotels, Selina, and Joe & The Juice. Learn how he built Meerkat into a multi-faceted group of companies specializing in consultation and project management, and how he ensures design, budget, and timeline alignmentacross complex projects.

If you're into real estate, hospitality innovation, or just love hearing how great ideas become fully operational spaces — this one’s for you.

OFF TOPIC EP. 110 A Law We NEED + Top 5 Mother’s Day Country Songs & ACM Reactions May 11, 2025

Show notes

In this week’s Off Topic, Eric kicks things off with a passionate take on a home renovation law he believes should be implemented ASAP—especially for homeowners working with unlicensed contractors. Then it’s a country music moment as he counts down his Top 5 Mother’s Day Country Songs that are guaranteed to hit you in the feels. He also breaks down the biggest ACM Award Show winners, shares his thoughts on standout moments, and wraps things up with a look at this week’s Media Base Country Chart—who’s rising, who’s falling, and who’s stuck in the middle.

EP. 190 Building Foundations – The Story Behind Ultimate Granite with Chris Morrow May 07, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, I sit down with Chris Morrow, President of Ultimate Granite in Gibsonia, PA. Chris walks us through the company’s early days, the lessons learned along the way, and how a strong work ethic and community support helped shape the business into what it is today. Whether you're in the trades or just love a good entrepreneurial story, this one’s packed with insight and inspiration.

OFF TOPIC EP.109 Repost with Pride & Follow-Along Power May 04, 2025

Show notes

This week on Off Topic, we’re diving into why it’s finally time to repost that old content—and how to give it a fresh spin that actually connects. I’m sharing the mindset shift around revisiting past work, plus tips for updating the caption with a behind-the-scenes story or a lesson learned.

Then, we break down the psychology and algorithm science behind the viral rise of follow-along short-form content. Spoiler: it’s not luck—it’s human behavior.

And of course, we wrap it all up with your Country Music Weekly check-in—new drops, chart moves, and who’s got that summer anthem energy already heating up the playlists.

🎧 Let’s go Off Topic—because this episode has a little bit of everything you didn’t know you needed.

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