What does it take to build a business that lasts, then step away with purpose? 

For many owners, the harder question isn’t how to grow, it’s how to know what comes next.

In this episode, Kevin Swanson talks with Stan Vuckovich, Retired CEO at KBM-Hogue, about building a company through discipline, leadership, and long-term relationships. Stan shares how he grew through downturns, planned his exit, used surfing as a stress outlet, and found meaning in giving back after retirement.

Stan discusses:

  • How an early furniture job helped shape a lifelong entrepreneurial mindset
  • Why leadership during downturns requires sacrifice, presence, and shared commitment
  • How Vistage helped him think beyond daily work and plan for life after ownership
  • Why surfing became a grounding outlet during stressful business seasons
  • How retirement shifted his focus toward freedom, family, community, and giving back
  • And more!

Connect with Potentia Wealth:

Connect with Stan Vuckovich:

About our guest:

Stan spent his entire 41-year career at KBM Hogue, ultimately selling the office furniture company and retiring in 2023. During his career, Stan was able to leverage his sales and marketing focus to grow KBM from $8,000,000 in annual sales with 14 employees to $150,000,000 in sales out of 3 Northern California locations with a staff of 140 employees. At San José State, Stan was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity, including serving as President in 1985. The Pikes were the largest fraternity at SJSU during the 80’s with a large contingent of alumni living in the Bay Area. Stan was a member of the San José Downtown Association board for a decade, including a 2-year term as board president. Stan feels SJSU provided him with an opportunity to connect and grow and created a great springboard for his career. He looks forward to giving back to the university through his work on the Tower Foundation Board.