Podcast

A Founder's Life:

Balancing Entrepreneurship, Family, Health, & Fun​

Podcast

A Founder's Life:

Balancing Entrepreneurship, Family, Health, & Fun​

The Real Story Behind Building a $5M Business - Dave Grebetz - S6 - E6

How do you go from working factory jobs and climbing cable poles to building and selling a successful company?

In this episode, Dave Grebetz shares the real story behind founding ClearCom, growing it into a profitable recurring-revenue business, and eventually exiting after decades of perseverance.

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Guest Info

Dave Grebetz is a security and technology entrepreneur with more than 35 years of experience across system installation, engineering, project management, sales, and executive leadership. He is the founder and former president of ClearCom Inc., a security and technology integration company that delivers advanced solutions to businesses and organizations across the United States.

Dave began his entrepreneurial journey in 2004, incorporating ClearCam, a company focused on video surveillance integration. As the security and technology landscape evolved, he restructured the business and rebranded it as ClearCom in 2006, expanding its capabilities and long-term vision. Under his leadership, the company grew into a full-service security and technology solutions provider, serving clients regionally in Southeast Wisconsin and the Fox Valley, while also supporting national projects.

ClearCom specializes in integrated security systems—including access control, video surveillance, intrusion detection, and fire alarm systems with 24/7 monitoring—as well as comprehensive technology infrastructure such as voice, data, audio/video systems, fiber optic cabling, and managed IT services. The company’s clients span industries including healthcare, government, manufacturing, logistics, and hospitality.

Throughout his career, Dave has been guided by a commitment to integrity, accountability, and long-term relationships with employees, clients, and partners. His leadership philosophy centers on doing what you say, standing behind your work, and continuously adapting to technological change.

After successfully building and exiting ClearCom, Dave now spends his time mentoring entrepreneurs, speaking with students, and enjoying an active lifestyle focused on travel, outdoor sports, and community involvement.

Show Notes

About this Episode

How do you go from working factory jobs and climbing cable poles to building and selling a successful company?

In this episode, Dave Grebetz shares the real story behind founding ClearCom, growing it into a profitable recurring-revenue business, and eventually exiting after decades of perseverance.

Highlights

• Early Career: Started working in manufacturing before entering the cable communications industry.

• Big Challenge: Navigated economic downturns and personal tragedy while building his company.

• Turning Point: Losing his first wife shifted his priorities and commitment to growth.

• Business Success: Built ClearCom into a profitable recurring-revenue company exceeding $5M annually.

• Exit Strategy: Successfully sold the business after decades of preparation.

• Giving Back: Now mentors young entrepreneurs and speaks at colleges.

Resources

Connect with today’s guest:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davegrebetz/

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