CXO Conversations

In this episode, host Michael Mitchel interviews Laura Hamirani, a speech language pathologist specializing in therapy for voice disorders. They discuss vocal executive presence and preventing vocal strain in the new Zoom culture. Laura emphasizes the importance of vocal warm-ups, breathing techniques, and vocal hygiene for maintaining a healthy voice. They also explore the impact of remote work and virtual platforms on voice issues. Laura shares advice on improving executive presence vocally and how it can prevent vocal cord strain. Takeaways • Speaking in a comfortable pitch and controlling cadence can enhance executive presence. • Remote work and virtual platforms can contribute to vocal strain and voice issues. • Be mindful of vocal hygiene, such as staying hydrated and avoiding throat clearing. • Practice vocal warm-ups and breathing techniques to maintain a healthy voice. An accomplished Soprano singer, Laura earned a Masters in Speech Language and Learning focusing on Pathology from Northwestern University. For over five years, Laura has been a Speech-Language Pathologist specializing in voice disorders.

In this episode of CXO Conversations, Michael Mitchel interviews Anna Conrad, CEO of Impact Leadership Solutions, about executive coaching and the changing landscape of executive presence. They discuss the importance of reflection, self- awareness, and personal growth in executive coaching. They also explore how executive presence has evolved over the years, emphasizing the need for authenticity, connection, and integrity. Anna shares tips for projecting executive presence in virtual meetings, including being mindful of backgrounds, showing up fully, and being present. They also touch on the importance of concise communication and the power of silence in conversations. Key Takeaways: • Executive coaching focuses on reflection, self-awareness, and personal growth. • Executive presence has evolved to emphasize authenticity, connection, and integrity. • Anna share tips for projecting executive presence in virtual meetings include being mindful of backgrounds, showing up fully, and being present. Anna Conrad JD has been an executive coach for over 17 years. She is the Founder and moderator of Executive Voices, a panel series with leading senior leadership from Colorado's premier companies. Anna also teaches at University of Denver, a campus she knows well – she graduated from their DU law school.

In this episode of CXO Conversations, Michael interviews Mike Murphy, Managing Partner of Sunstone Management Advisors, about the skills he gained during his career growth in the insurance industry and the advice he received throughout his career. They discuss the importance of building a diverse skill set and over earning your pay. They also emphasize the value of having an internal Sherpa who actively promotes and advocates for your career growth. he key takeaways from the conversation are: 1) Build your skill set and portfolio to enhance your career prospects, 2) Find an internal Sherpa who can guide and support your professional development. After over 20 years within the insurance industry, Mike founded Sunstone Management Advisors. Offering consulting services leveraging executive skillset and expertise in the healthcare and insurance industries to help clients improve operations and accelerate growth. Services included Strategic Planning, Operations, Performance Metrics, Product Development, Distribution, and Sales Effectiveness. Mike has served as COO for American Medical and Life Insurance Company, EVP with National General Insurance and CEO of HRGi Holdings.

Abbas Udawala is the CFO of Hexagon Digital Wave who is a seasoned financial veteran with a track record of turning companies around. He joins us today to share his insights on leadership  and building a strong personal brand. With a resume that includes nine transactions and executive roles in multiple industries, Abbas knows a thing or two about navigating the complex world of business. He's been involved in everything from high-growth startups to turnarounds, giving him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing today's leaders.   During the conversation, Abbass discusses the importance of your personal brand: Earn the Trust- through authentic conversations Transparency-Open dialogue and trust building Self Awareness- be honest with yourself to maximize your strengths and identify areas to improve Two key takeaways: Honesty in leadership- have those direct conversations while being proactive  Operational ownership- you have to know your business In addition to Hexagon Digital Wave, Abbass has been a CFO for Custom Window Systems (sold to strategic buyers), US Fence Solutions, Antelope Oil Tool & Mfg. Co, Griffen Dewatering, PGI International (Sold to a strategic buyer) and more. He holds an MBA from Tulane University and volunteers with business and social nonprofits.  

Veracode's CRO Andre Cuenin joins CXO Conversations and shares his journey from sales to the C suite. He doesn't like the title Chief Revenue Officer as it puts the focus on him versus the customer. Andre moved from presales to sales by having a post presentation conversation with a customer; he casually asked for the signature. During the conversation, Andre shares his three core management philosophies: Authenticity; be more authentic, gain and share experiences and value wisdom Importance of having a plan; don't chase the money- chase the dream  Go the extra mile; there's no traffic jam there Andre discusses the value and importance of always being curious and learning. Key take aways from the conversation with Andre: Be who you are and be truthful to yourself Go outside your comfort zone Passion gives you confidence In addition to Veracode, Andre has served in C level roles for Rapid7, Cherwell Software and President for the Americas and Europe for IR. Andre also led worldwide sales for StrataVia until it was acquired by HP and held many leadership roles for CA in both Europe and the US. He earned his BSC in Computer Science from the University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland.

In this episode, Dave Wynne, CFO of Hootsuite, discusses his career journey, from starting as a consultant to becoming a leading financial executive. He shares how his foundational consulting experience applies across different industries and shaped him into the leader he is today. Dave dives into his unique perspective on the CFO role, comparing it to the central nervous system of a company. He also explores the evolution of the CFO position and the changing demands it requires. Key takeaways for listeners include: The importance of finding a work culture aligned with your values and ethics. How setting goals and cultivating the right mindset are crucial for achieving success. The art of receiving recognition for your accomplishments while maintaining humility. Dave's extensive career covers a wide range of companies, including those in technology, apparel, manufacturing, and private equity (PE) and venture capital (VC) sectors. He also spent five years at The Riverside Company, a leading private equity firm with over $14 billion in assets under management (AUM). This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone looking to build a successful career in finance or business leadership.  

Join Michael Mitchel for a sneak peek into the upcoming season of CXO Conversations. We've lined up a stellar lineup of guests who share their invaluable perspectives and experiences on leadership, innovation, and success. From Dave Wynne, CFO of Hootsuite, discussing the power of internal sponsorship, to Carlos Abisambra, former CEO of Travelers Haven, sharing insights on scaling a business successfully. Abbas Udawala, CFO of Hexagon Digital Wave, dives into building trust and transparency, while Andre Cuenin, CEO of Veracode, shares his management philosophies. Get ready for a season packed with actionable advice and inspiring stories. Stay tuned!   More episodes and resources: https://ocns.co/podcast/   Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.     Enjoy the show? Leave us a review on iTunes – thanks!   

As CXO Conversations wraps up another season, host Michael Mitchel reflects on the increasing role of AI in our daily lives. From streamlining tasks to enhancing productivity, Michael shares practical examples of how AI is making an impact, both personally and professionally. Join us for a brief yet insightful episode, and stay tuned for the return of engaging interviews next spring!   More episodes and resources: https://ocns.co/podcast/   Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.     Enjoy the show? Leave us a review on iTunes – thanks!   

In this special edition of CXO Conversations, host Michael Mitchel revisits an engaging dialogue with John Vranas, who at the time was the Chief Development Officer for the Humane Society of America. This episode covers a breadth of topics that all can benefit from; from program creation to donor ( or sales) engagement and executive leadership preparation.  John's insights transcend organizational boundaries, offering actionable strategies applicable to both for-profit and nonprofit sectors. His journey from volunteering to leadership underscores the transformative power of personal experiences, while his emphasis on engagement, storytelling, and strategic alignment provides invaluable guidance for driving impact and fostering a culture of purpose and innovation.  Regardless of whether you're in a nonprofit, for-profit, or volunteering role, John's wisdom provides actionable strategies for fostering a culture of purpose and innovation.   Full show notes and resources: https://ocns.co/podcast/   Key highlights include: Organizational Distinction: Understanding the roles of the Humane Society and the Humane Society of the United States clarifies their collaborative efforts. Leadership Essentials: Engagement, storytelling, and strategic thinking are crucial for Chief Development Officers. Strategic Planning: Clear direction and accountability drive consistent growth and success. Fundraising Balance: Aligning funds with strategic goals ensures sustainability and impact. Program Innovation: Collaboration and effective execution are key in implementing innovative initiatives. Team Dynamics: Hiring based on values and fostering teamwork parallels successful sports rosters. Ethical Engagement: Authentic storytelling respects donors' sensitivities and maintains trust. Leadership Clarity: Providing clear direction in fundraising efforts is essential for success. Management Development: Middle managers seeking leadership experiences contribute to organizational growth. Personal Growth: Curiosity fuels innovation and personal development within nonprofits. Commitment to Learning: Fully committing to diverse perspectives fosters effective problem-solving and relationship-building.   Timestamps John Vranas and his role at the Humane Society of the United States (00:00:00) Distribution of funds and lobbying efforts within the organization (00:07:16) Career path and skills required for a Chief Development Officer (00:14:23) Importance of engagement and storytelling in fundraising (00:19:21) Convergence of development, strategy, and marketing roles in nonprofits (00:20:30) Balancing unrestricted and restricted funds in fundraising efforts (00:21:26) Process of implementing innovative programs and initiatives (00:26:57) Criteria for hiring key personnel and building cohesive teams (00:30:38) Ethical considerations in storytelling and donor engagement (00:34:41) Importance of providing clear direction in fundraising efforts (00:36:55) Parallels between fundraising strategies and investment portfolios (00:37:50) Value of middle managers seeking experiences demonstrating leadership (00:39:32) Personal anecdotes shaping career path and leadership qualities (00:42:17) Significance of curiosity in contributing to nonprofit organizations (00:44:23) Importance of showing work and committing to different perspectives (00:45:36) Lessons learned from past experiences and advice received (00:48:10)   Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.   Enjoy the show? Leave us a review on iTunes – thanks!

Join host Michael Mitchel as he welcomes back Ben Deda, CEO of Food Maven, for a revealing look at the company's four-year journey. Explore key milestones, strategic shifts, and insights into navigating challenges in the food industry. Gain valuable lessons in leadership, resilience, and adaptability while gaining optimism for the future of Denver's startup ecosystem.   Full show notes and resources: https://ocns.co/podcast/   Key highlights include: Strategic Evolution: Ben Deda outlines Food Maven's strategic shift towards a tech-centric model, reflecting on their trajectory over the past four years. Tech-Driven Solutions: The episode explores Food Maven's transition into a technology-driven provider, spotlighting the introduction of their Procurement API. Navigating Stakeholder Dynamics: The intricacies of managing stakeholders amidst uncertainty and transformation, emphasizing effective communication strategies. Market Fit and Resistance: Reflecting on industry challenges, Ben highlights strategic shifts made to align with market demands, overcoming resistance to change. Investor Relations: The importance of investor buy-in during strategic pivots and setbacks is discussed, shedding light on managing expectations. Lessons Learned: Insights gleaned from Food Maven's journey, stressing the significance of adaptability and maintaining a clear business narrative. Leadership Traits: Drawing from experience, Ben elaborates on essential leadership traits and decision-making skills crucial for navigating uncertain environments.   Timestamps 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:01:41 - Challenges Faced During the Pandemic 00:02:11 - Growth Strategies and Acquisitions 00:03:14 - Impact of COVID-19 on Fundraising Efforts 00:04:07 - Transitioning to a Tech-Centric Business Model 00:05:16 - Introduction of Food Maven's Procurement API 00:06:27 - Challenges and Opportunities in Food Procurement 00:07:32 - Transformation from Tech-Enabled to a Tech Company 00:09:15 - Managing Stakeholders and Communication Strategies 00:14:48 - Strategy evolution and go-to-market approaches 00:16:24 - Overcoming challenges in stakeholder engagement 00:17:39 - Industry resistance to change and finding the right market fit 00:18:43 - Dealing with investor expectations and buy-in 00:19:31 - Lessons learned and the importance of creating optionality 00:20:27 - Gaining wisdom and skills through experience 00:21:04 - Leadership traits and decision-making in uncertain environments 00:22:22 - Reflections on Denver Startup Week and adapting to changing community dynamics 00:25:15 - Goals and considerations for the future of Denver Startup Week 00:27:00 - Building optionality and maintaining a clear narrative in business   Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.     Enjoy the show? Leave us a review on iTunes – thanks!   

In this episode of CXO Conversations, host Michael Mitchel revisits an insightful interview with Ben Deda, CEO of Food Maven, and co-founder of Denver Startup Week. This conversation dives deep into Food Maven's mission to combat food waste by revolutionizing the distribution model, prioritizing sustainability, efficiency, and community impact.  Ben shares his personal journey transitioning from tech to CEO, and provides insights into the inception and growth of Denver Startup Week, highlighting its format, impact, and key lessons learned. Join Michael and Ben as they explore sustainable business practices, community-building, and visionary leadership, offering a compelling exploration of the challenges and opportunities in driving positive change. Plus, stay tuned for the next episode, where Ben shares updates on Food Maven's journey over the past four years.   Key highlights include: Fighting Food Waste: Ben Deda discusses Food Maven's mission to transform food distribution, focusing on sustainability and community impact. Tech-Driven Solutions: Food Maven's platform connects surplus food with buyers, reducing waste and supporting local suppliers. CEO Journey: Ben shares his transition from tech to CEO, highlighting leadership and collaboration. CEO Focus Areas: Ben outlines key areas of focus for CEOs, shaped by influential roles in his career. Denver Startup Week: Ben explores the origins and impact of Denver Startup Week, sharing valuable insights and lessons learned.   Timestamps Introduction of Ben Deda - (00:00:00) Overview of Food Maven's Mission and Operations - (00:01:42) Addressing Food Waste Challenges - (00:03:22) Tech Integration and Business Model Evolution - (00:04:39) Transitioning to CEO Role and Leadership Insights - (00:06:05) Mentors, Board Management, and Succession Planning - (00:08:28) CEO Preparedness and Learning from Experiences - (00:10:26) Ben's Key Focus Areas as CEO - (00:13:42) Influential Roles in Ben's Career Journey - (00:15:31) Advice for Aspiring CEOs - (00:16:09) Co-founding Denver Startup Week - (00:19:04) Evolution and Impact of Denver Startup Week - (00:23:26) Lessons Learned from Organizing Denver Startup Week - (00:25:15) Transition from Day-to-Day Operations to Board - (00:28:13) Temperature Adjustment in Warehouse Setting - (00:29:20)   Resources Ben Deda's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamindeda/ Ben Deda´s original episode: https://ocns.co/ceo-ben-deda-changing-industries-and-building-communities/   Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.   Enjoy the show? Leave us a review on iTunes – thanks!

In this episode of CXO Conversations, host Michael Mitchel engages with Laura Ortman, CEO of COLOGIX, to explore her dynamic journey from the athletic fields through various pivotal roles in the tech industry to her current position at the helm of a leading network-neutral interconnection and Hyperscale Edge data center company. Laura shares her comprehensive insights into the power of teamwork, perseverance, and a broad understanding of business operations that shaped her into a results-driven leader. She delves into the nuances of customer experience, the importance of culture, and the collaborative ethos underpinning successful leadership.  Through her narrative, Laura provides invaluable advice for aspiring leaders, emphasizing the significance of building relationships, embracing risks, and the continuous pursuit of learning, making this episode a treasure trove of leadership wisdom and inspiration.   Key highlights include: Laura's diverse career path across tech, DOD, and aviation, culminating in her role as CEO of COLOGIX. How Laura's leadership philosophy  was shaped by an athletic background, emphasizing teamwork, resilience, and a broad operational understanding. The pivotal role of customer experience in business success, illustrated by her approach to rebuilding trust and driving customer retention. The significance of culture, network building, and embracing risks as foundational elements for reaching the C-suite and fostering a successful organization.   Tune in for an inspiring conversation that unveils the secrets of resilient leadership in the fast-paced business world.   Timestamps Introduction to Laura Ortman and COLOGIX (00:01:06) Overview of COLOGIX's Business Model (00:01:58) Differences Between Public and Private Companies (00:03:48) Athletic Background Influence on Leadership (00:06:23) Attraction to the CEO Role (00:08:48) Moment of Realization for CEO Ambition (00:10:47) Leadership Philosophy: Presence, Listening, and Leading (00:15:19) Implementing 'Together We Win' Mantra (00:16:20) Adapting Leadership Approaches Post-2020 (00:17:57) Advice for Aspiring C-Suite Executives (00:20:41) The Importance of Building a Trustworthy Team (00:22:17) Role and Challenges in Customer Experience (00:25:32) Acquiring Listening Skills and Importance of Crucial Conversations (00:29:33) Reflections on Building a Network and Importance of Culture in Organizations (00:32:56)   Resources Laura Ortman's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauraortman/ Book: Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes are High - https://www.amazon.com/Crucial-Conversations-Tools-Talking-Stakes/dp/1260474186   Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.   Enjoy the show? Leave us a review on iTunes – thanks!

In this episode of "CXO Conversations," host Michael Mitchel welcomes Grant Stanis, a dynamic CEO renowned for his resilience and strategic acumen in the corporate world. Stanis shares his compelling journey from his first student council campaign to the helm of major corporations, revealing the pivotal role of resilience in climbing the corporate ladder. Delve into his insightful reflections on the multifaceted challenges of a CEO, from transforming struggling companies to fostering team growth and innovation. Stanis's unique approach, blending disciplined execution with a positive mindset, offers invaluable lessons for aspiring executives.    Key highlights include: Exploring his early ambition and path to becoming a successful CEO. Discussing the comprehensive responsibilities and transformative influence of a CEO on an organization and its team. Emphasizing how bouncing back from setbacks and learning from mistakes are crucial for business success. Highlighting that effective execution is often more critical than the strategy itself in business growth and success.   Tune in for an inspiring conversation that unveils the secrets of resilient leadership in the fast-paced business world.   Timestamps

Dive into 'CXO Conversations' with host Michael Mitchel as he welcomes The Honorable Patrick J. Murphy. From a U.S. Army officer to a congressman and venture capitalist, Murphy's journey is a tale of resilience and leadership. In this episode, explore his transition from military service to influential roles in Congress and the private sector. Discover how Murphy's leadership philosophy, shaped by experiences in the armed forces and public office, guides his current role at Stoney Lonesome Group, a venture capital firm supporting veteran-owned businesses.   Key highlights include: Murphy's leadership philosophy combining confidence, humility, and empathy. Transition from military service to Congress and the private sector. Insights into veteran unemployment and equality in the armed forces. Murphy's venture into television with MSNBC and his work in venture capitalism. The importance of a growth mindset and inclusive leadership for emerging leaders.   Tune in for an inspiring journey of transformation and lessons in leadership with Patrick Murphy.   Timestamps

In this season finale of CXO Conversations, host Michael Mitchel takes a moment to reflect on the remarkable year of 2023, revisiting the wealth of knowledge and diverse experiences shared by prominent executives, like Eric Lougher, David Cox, Craig Cummings, Janine Davidson, and many more.   Michael's Key Highlights: Stephen Brown's journey to becoming a President at 32, emphasizing confidence, seizing opportunities, and continual learning. Rand Lewis's insights on the hallmarks of great leadership and his experience as a successful investor. Raphael Crawford Mark's transition from Founder to CEO at Bonusly, mirroring Michael's own transition in the nonprofit sector.   As we bid farewell to this season, Michael teases the exciting lineup for the upcoming year, featuring notable guests like the Honorable Patrick Murphy, Grant Stanis, Christopher Lochhead, and Laura Ortman. Their forthcoming stories promise to bring fresh and inspiring perspectives to the podcast.   Special thanks to the talented CXO Conversations team for their invaluable contributions throughout the season.   Tune in and gear up for another year of engaging, insightful conversations that bridge the gap between ambition and achievement in the corporate world.    Happy holidays, and here's to a new year filled with more inspiring CXO Conversations!   Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.   Enjoy the show? Leave us a review on iTunes - thanks!  Thank you Jalan Crossland for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.

Join host Michael Mitchel in a conversation with Jack Blaha, CEO of Cendyn, as they delve into his journey from West Point and military service to becoming a prominent figure in the corporate world. Blaha delves into the synergy between his military discipline and his achievements in the fast-paced world of SaaS industries like hospitality and social media marketing. He sheds light on the pivotal role of emotional intelligence in shaping company culture and the profound impact of a CEO's leadership style, offering invaluable advice for ambitious leaders on mastering the art of adaptability, the art of building robust professional networks, and the subtle art of leading successful teams.   What you will learn in this episode: How military experience can be effectively leveraged in corporate leadership. The significance of adaptability and leadership skills in business success. Strategies for transitioning successfully from a military to a civilian career. The impact of emotional intelligence on shaping company culture and performance. The importance of mentorship and building a robust professional network. Best practices for team building and operational efficiency in new companies. Insights into navigating different sectors within the SaaS industry. Key lessons learned from various CEO roles and how they can apply to your career. Practical advice for aspiring leaders on career advancement and skill development.   Timestamps

As the leader of a large public university and former undersecretary of the U.S. Navy, Dr. Janine Davidson ​​has dedicated 30 years of her career to academic, civilian, and military service. Since 2017, she has been the President of Metropolitan State University of Denver, where she has been a staunch advocate for underrepresented students, DACA recipients, and military and veteran students.  Prior to her work in higher education, she was appointed by former President Barack Obama as the 32nd undersecretary of the U.S. Navy. She's also a trailblazing pilot, being the first woman to fly the Air Force's tactical C-130. In today's episode, Janine reflects on her career: The interview process to become undersecretary of the U.S. Navy Engaging with the local community as President of MSU Denver Becoming one of the first female pilots in the air force Janine has been awarded many accolades, including the HillVets Top 100 Most Influential Veterans and the Secretary of the Navy Medal for Distinguished Public Service.  At the national level, she is chair of the Department of Defense Policy Board and serves on the State Department Foreign Affairs Policy Board. Locally in Denver, Janine serves on the boards of numerous organizations, including the Colorado Concern, Downtown Denver Partnership, and the Rose Community Foundation. Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.   Enjoy the show? Leave us a review on iTunes - thanks!  Thank you Jalan Crossland for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.

From the frontlines in Afghanistan to the center of the Texas startup ecosystem, Craig Cummings has built an incredible career developing technology that solves real-world problems. He's now General Partner at Moonshots Capital, a venture capital firm in Austin that invests in technology startups, with a special focus on those founded by military veteran entrepreneurs.  Join us as we delve into Craig's inspiring journey, his insights into technology investments, and the unique perspective he brings to the entrepreneurial world. In this episode, Craig shares with Michael his experience: Crafting an elevator pitch that advances your career Building a strong local entrepreneurship community in Austin Helping other talented veteran entrepreneurs succeed Before he became an entrepreneur, Craig spent 17 years in the Army, most of that time as an Intelligence Officer serving in support of the National Security Agency (NSA). Craig deployed to Afghanistan with the Joint Special Operations Command where he was awarded the Bronze Star.  Craig holds a B.S. in Political Science from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, where he was recognized as their first Truman Scholar. He also has a Ph.D. in Political Science with a minor in Econometrics from Columbia University. Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast. Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.   Enjoy the show? Leave us a review on iTunes - thanks!  Thank you Jalan Crossland for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.

Perry Kamel has served in numerous leadership roles; Global executive, COO, CEO many times.  He has led many organizations through growth and turn arounds by focusing on the people- not the numbers.  Perry shares his experiences and thoughts on: Difference between management and leadership It's all about the people- the rest will follow Never stop learning- never stop reading Also, Perry speaks to how his experience in the US Navy created his servant leadership skills. Siemens, Accenture, McKinsey, BroadPoint Communications, Ciena, Maxamine … Perry has been a CEO, CMO, EVP for brand names.  His first CEO role was withing six years of separating from the US Navy.  Perry served as a Service Warfare Officer in the United States Navy and quickly earned a reputation for advancing the careers of those around him.  After earning a BSEE at Cornell, his education continued with a MSEE and Wharton MBA.  Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast.  Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.     Enjoy the show? Review us on iTunes- thanks!  Thank you Jalan Crossland for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.

Sean Odendahl has worked for only four organizations, including his current employer of 17 years. For the last three years, Sean has been serving at the Chief Transformation Officer for the global law firm Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner.  Sean shares his perspective on: The importance of direct feedback as a path to improvement  Power of candid mentor relationships for professional growth What a successful mentorship looks like Also, Sean speaks to how his experience in the US Army influenced his leadership skills and approach. Sean's legal and professional career has been guided by the counsel he provides to buyers and sellers in private equity investments, transactions and M&A related issues.  Sean served in the US Army for over four years with the 82nd Airborne and deployed to Operation Desert Sheild/Storm.  After graduating law school, he clerked with  in the Ninth Circuit, US Court of Appeals.  For five years, Sean was an attorney before moving to Bryan Cave that has become BCLP, a global law firm.  Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast.  Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.     Enjoy the show? Review us on iTunes- thanks!  Thank you Jalan Crossland for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.

As Tyson Begly was wrapping up being CFO of Delta Data, after a Accel KKR transaction to Terminus Capital Partners, he was asked to complete the final year of a City Council seat, provided he would not run for reelection. Tyson readily agreed - he wanted to give back to his community.  Tyson shares his thoughts on: How serving as a Company Executive helps him be a good public servant Corporate skills and experiences that he is able to utilize as a City Council member Shared thoughts to those who are interested in serving their community Tyson served as COO/CFO for Delta Data until a change of control in early 2023. Prior experience includes management consulting for Accenture, Morgan Stanley, Diamond Management and others.  Tyson holds an MBA from Duke University.  Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast.  Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.     Enjoy the show? Review us on iTunes- thanks!  Thank you Jalan Crossland for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.

While a CFO for The Economist, David Cox led the iconic brand through a global transformation from print to digital and live events globally.   David shares his thoughts on: Early digital adoption and transformation of a globally respected brand Listening to the client base What he learned and advice offered from the global experience David led the project management of the transformation with consulting selling both internally and externally. He also listened to clients and subscribers as they went from weekly print only to digital and took the brand live with events from Africa, Europe to North America and Asia.  Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast.  Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.     Enjoy the show? Review us on iTunes- thanks!  Thank you Jalan Crossland for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.

After Travelers Insurance acquired several companies, as a Director, Stephen Brown wrote a transition memo and proposed he lead the initiative.  His superiors countered by promoting him to President, relocating him to California and told him to run the whole thing.  Stephen speaks to: Experience of going from Director to President overnight and how he prepared Overcoming self-doubt by continuously learning and improving As a 32-year-old, leading an older C suite Generation Advice 55-year-old Stephen would give to 32-year-old Stephen Stephen went from Director to President overnight and never looked back. He's been a CEO ever since and in this intimate interview, shares those experiences and lessons learned.  Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast.  Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.     Enjoy the show? Review us on iTunes- thanks!  Thank you Jalan Crossland for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.

Frederic Rivain has served as a CTO for numerous technology companies in France and the US.  He speaks to the differences in managing technical vs non technical staff and aligning to their motivations.  Frederic talks to: Differences in leading technical and non-technical professionals Role of the CTO on the executive leadership team Advice to those who seek the C suite.  For the last seven years, Frederic has served as the CTO for Dashlane and held the CTO chair at 3 other companies after serving as a Project Manager for IBM.  Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast.  Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.     Enjoy the show? Review us on iTunes- thanks!  Thank you Jalan Crossland for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.

Kathleen Neuheardt, CFO for Bonfire talks to her creativity and passion for embracing challenges as opportunities with an entrepreneurial spirit. During the interview, Kathleen speaks to: ·         Being promoted from VP to CFO ·         Overlooked Roles and responsibility of being a CFO ·         How being a Big 4 consultant helped prepare her for the C Suite Kathleen was a partner track consultant at KPMG when after 13 years,  she decided to become a small business owner. Then Kathleen joined Kalnin Ventures (now BKV) and took ownership of projects and firm needs that included ERP implementations, HR, M&A due diligence, accounting, and more. She was promoted from Controller, VP to CFO within four years. Her next role was CFO at Quickbox Fulfillment and now CFO for Bonfire. Thank you to ACG Denver for being a sponsor of CXO Conversations Podcast.  Association for Corporate Growth in its role as the hub of the middle market business community for quality networking, education and events. Connections are made, deals are formed and thought leadership is exchanged.    Enjoy the show? Review us on iTunes- thanks! Thank you Jalan Crossland for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.

CXO Conversations is excited to share some great insights from a global CFO and CTO, curious CFO and CEO who created a President role for himself at age 32. Kathleen Neuheardt CFO of Bonfire airs on July 19th, followed by Dashlane CTO Frederic Revain, Briotix Health CEO Stephen Brown and former CFO for The Economist, David Cox.

An accomplished investor, Rand Lewis is  the Managing partner and co-founder of Delta-v Capital. Rand has invested in many well-known companies such as Zayo, Cloud Sherpa, LogRhythm, Iterable, Chegg and others. For over 24 years, Rand has been investing and hiring executives for portfolio companies and he's learned and observed a lot about what makes an executive a great leader and successful. In this episode, Rand discusses: He invests not only dollars, but real relationships with people Advice to current and emerging CEOs What makes a leader successful and how he finds it in candidates After earning an MBA from Northwestern, Rand was a consultant at McKinsey before joining Centennial Ventures.  After a successful 10 year run with Centennial, he co-founded Delta-v that focuses on technology companies.   Enjoy the show? Review us on iTunes- thanks! Thank you Jalan Crossland for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.

Jay McMullan is a CRO who started his sales career at an industrial supply company and observed what was happening in the technology sector and said - I want in on that. For those who wonder how to make the transition from one sector to another, this is a conversation not to be missed. In this episode, Jay discusses: How he transitioned from the industrial shop floor to a tech company How he demonstrated his skills to overcome lack of Tech experience As a member of the executive committee, how the CRO contributes to company strategy David has held leadership roles at companies such as Amdocs, Ericsson and others. He truly enjoys sales, relationship building and serving as a trusted advisor to his clients. Enjoy the show? Review us on iTunes- thanks! Thank you Jalan Crossland for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.

Carla Fowler, an Executive Coach and founder of THAXA, has gone through the challenge of changing a career path and embracing new opportunities. Carla speaks to the advantages and growth (both personal and professional) of pushing yourself and getting outside of your comfort zone.  Professionals achieve career accomplishments by continuing to push oneself, learning, tackling new projects and improving. That's how Executives are formed.   Carla talks to; Realizing path one is on isn't always the right one Pushing your boundaries and trying new things She agrees UDub is the best university- Go Huskies!   After dedicating over 10 years of education, training, and long hours to become an MD, Carla had a long hard self-reflective journey that in the end said, ‘This isn't what I want to do', and she became an executive coach. If anyone can appreciate a great career pivot and the personal journey that is required, Carla can.    Referenced prior podcast guest: Casey Woo   Enjoy the show? Review us on iTunes - thanks!  Thank you Jalan Crossland for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.  For more insightful episodes with some of C-Suites' big names Click Here

David Parkhurst is the Chief Customer Officer (CCO) and Managing Partner for Omni Interactions. Additional roles he has served as includes Chief Revenue Officer (CRO) and Chief Growth Officer. David discusses: The differences between CCO, CGO and CRO Moving from VP to C Level and the shift in revenue responsibilities When a deal falls apart at zero hour & lessons learned David has held leadership roles at ServiceSource, Skykes Enterprises and Alpine Access focusing on customer care solutions. This has given David insight into economic cycles and client business conditions in a fresh angle. And we share our love of cold calling! Enjoy the show? Review us on iTunes- thanks! Thank you Jalan Crossland for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.

Chris Younger is the CEO of Class VI Partners and is an executive with many chapters in his career. As President of Expanets, a telcom reseller, he acquired 27 companies in 3 years then sold it to Avaya. He owned a Private Equity Firm and now provides transactions and strategic advisory services to middle market businesses.   Chris provides insight into: ·         Managing the stress of leadership- why you must ·         Importance of executive presence ·         The Dinner Test with CEOs Chris has bought, sold, led companies across all business sectors and advises organizations and family offices on transactions. This provides Chris with insights on C level leaders that he shares in this episode. He also shares the physical toll of being an overworked President and how it changed him.    Enjoy the show? Review us on iTunes- thanks! Thank you Jalan Crossland for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.

In a very honest conversation, onsite in Boulder, Colorado, we speak with Raphael Crawford Marks, who founded Bonusly over 11 years ago by accident. It was a off shoot of another project that has since taken off and recently secured it's Series B funding. Raphael speaks to several points: ·         The transition from being hands on to leading ·         Differences between being a Founder and CEO what it is like ·         How the role of CEO continues to evolve and the company setback of a bad hire Raphael discusses the challenges and learning moments moving from being a hands on start up Founder to a governing company CEO.  His job as CEO is still constantly changing- it changes every three months.  He also embraces hiring those who are smarter than himself, talks about why, learning new leadership skills, the value of a support network and mentors. Bonusly is an enterprise platform that helps companies create a high-performance, high-engagement workplace. Prior to founding Bonusly, Raphael was an early employee at several startups, a Peace Corps volunteer in Honduras, and an instructor for Year Up. Raphael dropped out of high school to work as a software engineer in the mid-nineties, but did eventually earn his BA in cognitive science from Hampshire College, where he wrote his senior thesis on artificial intelligence. Also, in a Medium article, Raphael discusses “Five Things Business Leaders Can Do To Create A Fantastic Work Culture” Raphael also contributed to benefitnews.com where he discusses “Four Benefits of positive Recognition to Boost Employee Engagement” On Entrepreneur.com, Raphael has several articles discussing employee feedback, communications and how to harness staff evaluations. Enjoy the show? Review us on iTunes- thanks! Thank you Jalan Crossland for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.

Eric Lougher is a versatile CFO who comes from an investor background. He has served as Chief Financial Officer for both VC and PE backed companies that provides Eric a balanced and insightful view of today's CFO. Eric talks to two key points: The art of balance various department budgetary needs and fiscal health of the company and achieving strategic goals Board relations and the role of the CFO during and in between the quarterly meetings. Eric views balance needs of sales, marketing, HR, IT and others with the overall vision and trend of his company. Sometimes that leads to an awkward conversation with a department head.  His relationship and management style is one of trust, collaboration and openness.  When it comes to Board relationships, Eric's sees teamwork as the key communication, strategy alignment as the cornerstone of trust with the Board.  Enjoy the show? Review us on iTunes- thanks!  Thank you Jalan Crossland for lending your award-winning banjo skills to CXO Conversations.

Upcoming interviews include Eric Lougher, of Taskray  who discusses the role of today's CFO and Board relations, CEO Raphael Crawford Marks on the transition from Founder to CEO,  and Chris Younger, successful executive and CEO of Class VI Partners on advice to CEOs.   Other guests include Jay McMullen, a Chief revenue Officer who decided to accelerate his career by switching from industrial materials to start ups and  , Carla Fowler, an MD who pivoted to C suite Executive coaching who about getting outside of your comfort zone and be willing to try new things. I'm truly excited with the 2023 line up of guests and please visit OCnationalsearch.com for our all-new podcast episode page. Michael Mitchel, Host

2022 was a year of achievements and 2023 brings new challenges and opportunities

 William Toti, after naval career of distinction that included commanding an attack submarine and Commadore went on to a successful career in corporate America.  We discuss having the hard conversation between yourself and your boss. William also provides insightful advice on how to reach the gain experience to reach the C suite.

Chuck Mollor is the CEO of MCG Partners, an advisory and executive coach firm as well as the author of “The Rise of the Agile Leader”. For over 15 years Chuck has advised executives on a wide range of areas from one-on-one coaching, team effectiveness, assessments and more.   In our interview, Chuck provides unique insight into the challenges today's CEOs face.  And we hear about being a Cranberry Farmer!

Ray Gogel  has served as COO, President and Board Director numerous times in the energy sector throughout his career.  He has served in executive roles as CIO, CAO, COO, Managing Director and Board of Directors for companies such as Xcel Energy, Accenture, US Grid Company, IBM and others.    Ray joins CXO Conversations to discuss needed skills for today's CEO and where they may struggle

Brad Feld is a successful Veteran Capitalist and founding member of the Foundry Group.  Within the Colorado startup scene, Brad is a bit of a celebrity having been part of some well-known successful companies.   Brad really sees founders and start ups not just investments, but as a community that he supports, sees areas for improvements, mentors and loves.  In this very personal full-length interview, Brad shares his personal Board experiences, what he looks for in Board Director candidates and advice for first time Board members.  He also shares his experiences from his Colorado Trail 2021 days as well lessons learned from the first job he was fired from. 

Chuck Melcher is a retired Naval Commanding Officer that has served in various roles including Chief Engineering, XO and Skipper on several Nuclear Attack Submarines.  After retiring from the United States Navy, Chuck joined an international energy company as a VP and quickly rose to CEO.  Chuck discusses interviewing to become a Submarine skipper, his successful civilian executive search and career.  A graduate of the USNA, Chuck earned his MBA at John Hopkins.  The interview was conducted outdoors in the Colorado Rockies in-between altitude training hikes for a Mount Kilimanjaro excursion.

Christine is an accomplished global CFO who rose up through the ranks of senior leadership at Big 4 firms, such as PwC and EY. She is a life-long learner who is both personally and professionally curious, and intrinsically driven to continually broaden her base of knowledge and experience.  She's an avid traveler who has even hanglided over the jungles of Brazil. In this episode she delves into the importance of intellectual curiosity.

As summer is in full swing, this is a great opportunity for an excerpt from a 2020 interview with CRO Randal Meske.  The full interview can be found here   About our Guest Randal Meske is the CRO at ConstructConnect (a Roper Technologies company) and the Founder and CEO at Evreware, a market intelligence firm.   Prior to Evreware, Randal was the President at Citation Technologies Inc., an environmental compliance solutions company.  Before Citation, Randal was the Vice President of Oracle's Global Collaboration Sales Unit. Prior to Oracle, Randal was the Vice President, Technical Publishing Business Development at IHS where he managed their worldwide content supply network. Before IHS, he served as Sr. Director of Business Development at Citrix Systems, Inc. He also had multiple international assignments in Europe and Latin America with Lotus and IBM managing regional P&L, creating go-to-market strategies, and building multiple sales organizations in those geographies. Randal graduated with honors in 1986 from the University of North Texas earning a B.B.A. with an emphasis on International Business.  Prior to University, he studied abroad for one year in Germany.  Randal is fluent in German and currently studies Italian.  He lives in the Denver area with his wife and 3 daughters.

The impressively humble General Kevin Patrick ‘Chili' Chilton joins the show today to share his 34-½ years of experience in the Air Force as well as the successful transition he then navigated into corporate America. A note to those who have not served in the Armed Forces: I will be referring to our guest as either General or by his call sign of ‘Chili' out of respect for his rank and his service to our country.  Here is the full Part 1 interview:  https://cxoconversations.libsyn.com/encore-general-kevin-patrick-chilly-chilton-on-preparing-tomorrows-leadership-building-strong-teams-and-flying-nice-birds ABOUT OUR GUEST General Kevin Patrick ‘Chili' Chilton graduated from the United States Air Force Academy and has flown pretty much every aircraft in the Air Force inventory including the RF4, F15, U2, and the B52. He attended test-pilot school, served around the world and was selected as an astronaut that included three shuttle missions. He was also the Deputy Program Manager of Operations for the International Space Station. He then returned to the Air Force for key postings such as the Commander of the Ninth Recon Wing, Commander of the Eighth Air Force, and Commander of the Air Force Space Command and the United States Strategic Command. He is currently the only astronaut to obtain the rank of 4-star General. Chili has served on boards of the Anadarko, Orbital, Aerospace Corporation and both level three and post-merger with Lumen today as well as with Aerojet Rocketdyne.

Tom started out in technology and discusses how he arrived at the CEO chair by way of GE & NCR. He speaks about to the scrappy opportunties at GE and the similiarties of that attitude at Inovonics, a middle market company. Along the way, his international travel helped him apprciate different cultures and what unites us. He also discusses where emerging executives can obtain the robust management opportunites that GE used to offer. Welcome to Colorado Tom!

When the lockdowns started, Susan realized they had to act fast to support the company, employees and real estate agents in over 120 countries while creating an innovative mental health program on the fly.    A highly respected HR leader in Denver, Susan has worked at OppenheimerFunds, American Residential Communities, Fiserv, Comcast and more.   In her interview, Susan shares the personal side of leading by example and how they are adapting to the permanent WFM culture.

Tony has sought opportunities to challenge himself and not be pigeon holed in one sector. Tony and Michael discuss how the CFO role is evolving, playing volleyball against Olympic athletes, trend in COO and CFO offices merging and his advice to those eyeing the C suite. 

Peter grew up in West Africa, attended university in the UK, earned his Masters in the US, and served in several different sectors. Starting his career in banking, Peter founded his own Capital Advising firm before moving into health care. Peter sought the healthcare sector as a place to apply his executive skills while contributing back to his community.  

Setting career goal and making strategic decisions to become a CEO. John made purposeful key decisions at Johnson & Johnson, Maxxar, IHS and Kellogg's to gain experience and opportunities to become an effective and seasoned CEO. 

Being selected into one of the military service academy's is not only rigorous but an achievement that is not easy to walk away from. Casey discusses how he had come to terms with the fact that West Point was not his calling. Nor was a high earning position on Wall Street. Casey followed his passion and dreams, not expectations of success by society.

Focus on the opportunity and outcomes, not title and self.