Disruptive CEO Nation

From Hollywood stuntman to tech founder saving lives—Kenny Kelley's journey is anything but ordinary. In this powerful episode, he shares how a motorcycle accident led him to create a game-changing safety tech company that's revolutionizing workplace protection. We sat down with Kenny Kelley, founder and CEO of Silent Beacon, a personal safety technology company helping protect vulnerable workers through panic button solutions. Kenny's journey to become to tech entrepreneur is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and listening to the market. He shares the origin story of Silent Beacon and the hard-earned lessons that came with funding, product-market fit, and scaling in regulated industries like healthcare. Kenny opens up about surviving the startup trenches, rebounding from naysayers, and why feedback is the fuel behind every innovation. If you've ever faced rejection, doubted your vision, or wondered how to pivot with purpose, this one's for you.   Here are highlights: A Stuntman's Wake-Up Call: After a motorcycle accident left him unable to reach his phone, Kenny realized the tech gap in personal emergency response. From Shark Tank to Strategic Capital: Kenny passed on a Shark Tank deal to partner with a seasoned business mentor, prioritizing long-term guidance over fast fame. The Reality of Go-to-Market Missteps: Kenny candidly discusses how his initial launch strategy flopped and how shifting from B2C to B2B in regulated industries transformed his company's trajectory. The Power of Listening (Especially to “No”): Silent Beacon 2.0 wasn't born from flashy features. It was built by fixing what users hated. Kenny explains how product evolution is all about humble iteration. Protecting the Protectors: With alarming statistics on workplace assaults in healthcare, Kenny outlines how Silent Beacon is helping nurses, social workers, and educators feel safer on the job.   About the guest: Kenny Kelley is the founder and CEO of Silent Beacon LLC. He began his entrepreneurial journey as a Hollywood motorcycle stuntman and founder of Adrenaline Crew LLC, where he produced videos and led teams of daredevil riders in live, on-road stunt shows that gained a global following online and at major events. After a serious motorcycle crash left him unable to reach his phone and call for help, the idea for Silent Beacon was born — a wearable, one-touch safety device that can instantly contact any number, including 911, and share your GPS location in real time.   Connect with Kenny: Website: https://silentbeacon.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenny-kelley-b3202555 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Silentbeacon Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/silentbeacon/# Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesilentbeacon   Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/    #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does that mean for leadership in today's skeptical world? Communications expert Jenni Field joins us to explore how credibility, integrity, and intentional leadership are the cornerstones of organizational trust– and how to build them before it's too late. In this powerful episode of Disruptive CEO Nation, founder of Redefining Communications and author of Nobody Believes You, Jenni, comes to share her wisdom. Together, we unpack the rising challenges leaders face in building trust, developing middle managers, and scaling culture in a skeptical, fast-paced business environment.   If you've ever struggled with communication gaps, growing pains, or a loss of team credibility, this episode delivers real insight and practical tools you can apply right now.    Here are highlights: - Credibility Starts with Integrity: Jenni explains how credibility isn't a one-time achievement; it's built moment by moment by doing what you say you'll do, even when it's inconvenient. - Bridging the Leadership Gap: Discover why middle managers often don't step up and how vague expectations and unintentional micromanagement from the C-suite can create “learned helplessness.” - The Trust Crisis in Organizations: A breakdown in trust shows up as low engagement scores. Jenni shares how CEOs can rebuild that trust by being radically transparent and consistently communicative. - Founders Must Evolve or Hand the Baton: As startups grow, visionary founders must either develop leadership skills or intentionally seek leadership support. Jenni outlines when and how to make that choice. - Time Isn't the Problem, but Priorities Are: Jenni challenges the “I don't have time” excuse and offers bite-sized actions for building trust and leadership daily, even in the busiest roles.   Access Jenni's book, course, and free resources here: How to be a credible leader - Redefining Communications    About the guest: Jenni Field is an expert in leadership credibility and internal communication. After spending 13 years in senior in-house roles as Head of Internal Communications and Communications Director, Jenni founded her consultancy, Redefining Communications, to help organisations and teams move from chaos to calm through effective communication. She works with organisations, leaders, and emerging leaders so they can improve their communication and credibility, thus impacting positively on the workplace environment. Jenni has published two books: Nobody Believes You: Become a Leader People Will Follow, which has sold over 4,000 copies internationally, and Influential Internal Communication, both published within the last five years. She also co-hosts Frequency, a weekly podcast exploring internal comms, HR, leadership, and employee experience. Co-hosted with Chuck Gose, the show features expert insights, lively conversation, and debate on the big workplace challenges. Connect with Jenni:  Website:https://thejennifield.com/ Website: https://redefiningcomms.com/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/redefining-communications-with-jenni-field/id1588233391    Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/    #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if addiction recovery was treated with the same compassion, personalization, and whole-person care as any other chronic condition? We sit down with William McKinney, CEO of Eleanor Health, to discuss a revolutionary approach to addiction recovery that goes far beyond medication. Eleanor Health is transforming how we treat substance use disorders—integrating therapy, peer support, health coaching, and compassionate care rooted in science and dignity. William shares how Eleanor Health launched just before the pandemic, scaled during volatile healthcare shifts, and is now entering a rapid growth phase with plans to expand into a new state every month. You'll hear why this work is so personal for William, how the company is navigating stigma and digital marketing barriers, and why he believes Eleanor's model could extend to other addictions beyond substances in the near future. Whether you lead a health startup, care about mental wellness, or know someone affected by addiction, this episode is not to be missed.   Here are highlights: -Revolutionizing Addiction Care: Eleanor Health delivers whole-person, compassionate treatment. They are combining therapy, peer support, coaching, and medication without stigma. -Mission-Driven Growth: With expansion into nine states and more on the horizon, the company is scaling with discipline, purpose, and community impact at its core. -Culture That Connects: Eleanor's fully virtual model fosters transparency, inclusivity, and deep engagement powered by Slack, in-person retreats, and values-first leadership. -Marketing with Integrity: William reveals the challenges of D2C marketing in a crowded, skeptical online landscape. He shares how Eleanor breaks through with authenticity and real results. -A Broader Vision: Looking ahead, Eleanor aims to apply its approach to other forms of addiction like gambling, food, or digital dependencies to expand its impact beyond substances.    About the guest: William McKinney is the Chief Executive Officer of Eleanor Health, an outpatient addiction treatment program. William was most recently the CEO of Sevita (formerly The MENTOR Network), the leading provider of home and community-based specialty health care with 45,000 employees serving over 55,000 individuals. He led Sevita through several years of exceptional top- and bottom-line growth culminating in a successful transaction in 2022. Prior to joining Sevita in 2019, William served as president of the Integrated Care Group for Fresenius Medical Care, where he managed multiple business lines including Fresenius Health Partners, Fresenius Rx, and Fresenius Managed Care. William previously held senior leadership roles at MedSpring Urgent Care and WellCare Health Plans and also consulted for McKinsey & Company. William holds a B.S. in computer engineering and a B.S. in mathematics from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas.    Connect with William:  Website: https://www.eleanorhealth.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-mckinney-9972087/   Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/    #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if your company's unsellable inventory could become a lifeline for nonprofits instead of ending up in a landfill? In this episode of Disruptive CEO Nation, host Allison K. Summers talks with Disney Petit, founder and CEO of LiquiDonate, a groundbreaking platform turning excess retail goods and customer returns into powerful tools for social impact. From building the tech to power smarter giving to literally digging through dumpsters to understand waste, Disney shares how she's creating a new supply chain for good—and why reconnecting to your mission might be the most powerful business strategy of all.   Here are highlights: -Turning Returns into Resources: LiquiDonate matches excess or returned retail inventory with schools and nonprofits in need, saving goods from landfills and cutting reverse logistics costs by 50%. -Hands-On, Mission-Driven Leadership: Disney shares how she reconnects with purpose by making deliveries herself, ensuring she stays grounded in the impact of the work. -Scalable Tech with a Social Impact: From Shopify integrations to a custom-built AI-powered donation platform, LiquiDonate makes giving easier than discarding for retailers and event organizers. -Culture Over Convenience: Built as the “anti-Amazon,” LiquiDonate empowers nonprofits and educators to “shop” for free essential goods. They offer dignity, choice, and sustainability. -Growth, Grit, and 11 Million Wins: With over 11 million items already diverted from landfills, Disney reflects on startup challenges, team building, and staying aligned with the mission during hard days.   About the guest: Disney Petit is the Founder and CEO of LiquiDonate, a sustainable social impact software company that matches excess inventory from retailers, brands, and businesses with nonprofits and schools to help recover sunk logistics costs. LiquiDonate combines her years of experience working with tech companies reverse to implement social impact programs that leverage their existing business model and evolving technologies with her love for the work and people of nonprofits.   Prior to LiquiDonate Disney was employee 15 at Postmates. She built the customer service team from the ground up, launched new markets such as Seattle, New York, DC, and Chicago, co-built their sales team, adding a new stream of revenue for the company through the Postmates Partner program. Disney also created the Civic Labs team, Postmates' social responsibility arm.     Connect with Disney:   Website: https://www.liquidonate.com/   Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/    #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if your child could actually learn to manage money—not just play pretend with it?   Teaching kids about money has traditionally involved games, fake dollars, and hypothetical situations. But what if the key to lasting financial habits was giving them real financial experiences? In this eye-opening episode, we talk to the CEO of Stockpile, a financial platform that helps kids and families learn to save, invest, and spend. Victor opens up about his founder journey, raising $45 million, the company's mission-driven design, and how Stockpile empowers kids to make real investment choices while giving parents peace of mind. You'll hear how Stockpile has built a platform that doesn't just teach financial literacy; helps families live it, building lifelong confidence and smart money behaviors. This one's a must-listen for parents, educators, and startup founders alike.   Here are highlights: -Real Financial Literacy for Kids: Research shows kids learn best with real-world experience. Stockpile's platform uses actual money to teach kids saving, investing, and budgeting in a meaningful, lasting way.   -Mission-Driven Design: Stockpile prioritizes saving and investing over spending, with features like "kids choose, parents approve" to foster smart habits and meaningful family money conversations.   -Lessons from the Founder's Journey: Victor shares how his entrepreneurial upbringing and multiple startups led him to Stockpile, including the importance of aligning values, culture, and hiring practices.   -Adapting to Market Volatility: The platform encourages resilience and patience by letting kids make real investment choices and experience gains and losses, reinforcing the importance of long-term strategy.   -Team Culture and Leadership Values: Victor reveals how Stockpile builds a strong remote culture by hiring for fit, investing in internal development, and maintaining transparency and trust across a global team.   About the guest: Victor Wang is CEO of Stockpile, an investing platform empowering the next generation of investors through hands-on learning. With over 25 years as a successful entrepreneur, Victor brings the leadership and passion needed to remove barriers in the financial industry and enable people to own their financial futures.   Victor's belief that today's youth deserve the same opportunities he had when his father came to America with just $40 in his pocket inspired his vision of using Stockpile to make investing accessible for all and give children the power to shape their financial futures. With his background partnering with leading brands like Wells Fargo Bank, American Express, Nike, LEGO, Indian Motorcycle and Jamba Juice, Victor provides the strategic vision and innovation to advance Stockpile's mission of driving financial inclusion.     Connect with Victor:   Website: https://www.stockpile.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victorwangsf   Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/    #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What do you get when you cross a behavioral psychologist with significant experience in the business world? You get the insightful mind and wisdom of Richard Reid.   Richard knows that commanding attention and influence while leading through change is more difficult than ever. He shares that the mind and thought processes of an employee today have more dynamic needs than even a decade ago. This is why he wrote Charisma Unlocked: Science and Strategy behind Presence, Persuasion and Authentic Leadership.   We thoroughly enjoyed this conversation as we think any tip and wisdom that an executive leader can gain that will make their business run smoother. Any increase in profitability while elevating employee satisfaction is a win.   Here are highlights: -Emotional Intelligence: Self-awareness, particularly in managing stress and improving communication, is critical as the foundation for a leader that others are willing to follow.   -Charisma in Modern Leadership: Richard discusses the importance of charisma in leadership, emphasizing that it's about connecting with people as individuals and making them feel heard. He explains that modern leadership involves facilitating others, unlocking their potential, and aligning organizational goals with employees' hopes and fears.   -Psychological Safety in Organizations: The importance of creating an environment where people feel safe to express themselves, offer different ideas, and speak up when struggling was emphasized. Richard notes that many well-intentioned leaders struggle with authenticity and humility, often unintentionally sending mixed messages about psychological safety.   -Constructive Conversations: Allow people to bring fresh ideas, challenge prevailing thoughts constructively, and speak up when employees and projects are struggling. He advises leaders to set intentions before conversations, slow down interactions to create space for reflection, and focus on collaboration rather than talking at each other.   -Wellbeing and Mental Health Advocacy: Richard is a lifelong promoter of wellbeing and that CEO's need to make considerations for team members' mental health in the workplace. This care will better equip individuals to navigate and achieve goals and overcome business challenges.     About the guest: Richard Reid is a highly experienced psychologist, coach, and wellbeing consultant with over 20 years of expertise. He is a former Chief People Officer at a global law firm specialising in Trauma, Resilience, and Psychological Safety. Richard has worked extensively with organisations such as the London Underground, the City of London Police, and the Witness Protection Program. He also runs an international practice providing therapy, coaching, and psychology services to entrepreneurs, high-net-worth individuals, and senior leaders.   As a charisma coach and trainer, Richard focuses on helping people achieve their full potential. His latest book, Charisma Unlocked, was published in March and is available on Amazon.   Connect with Richard:   Website: https://richard-reid.com/ Amazon, Buy Charisma Unlocked: https://amzn.to/42N2pF2   Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/    #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I love discovering founders who are using technology to democratize access to services that have traditionally been out of reach for many people. That's why I was so excited to speak with Alexander Harmsen, the founder and CEO of Global Predictions. Alexander created PortfolioPilot, an AI-powered financial advisor that helps individuals take control of their financial lives without the high fees or intimidation factor of traditional firms. What started as a personal side project has become a platform managing over $30 billion in assets all while helping simplify investing for the everyday person. In our conversation, Alexander shares how he's building not just a product, but a movement to empower everyday investors with real, personalized advice. Here are highlights of our conversation:   -   From Side Project to $30 Billion Platform: Alexander built the first version of PortfolioPilot to manage his own finances after selling his previous startup. Today, the platform serves tens of thousands of users and continues to scale rapidly. -   Designed for Real People: Rather than expecting users to know what to ask, PortfolioPilot delivers a full written assessment based on inputs like income, age, assets, and risk tolerance. It helps people feel confident and in control of their financial future. -   AI Meets Fiduciary Responsibility: PortfolioPilot provides truly personalized, fiduciary-level financial guidance by asking the right questions and giving users clear, actionable monthly advice based on their actual financial picture. -   High Output, Lean Team: With a team of just 10 people working remotely around the world, Alexander attributes their efficiency to smart hiring, tight feedback loops, and extensive use of AI tools across development, marketing, and operations. -   The Future of Financial Advice: Alexander believes we're entering an era where everyone will have AI-powered advisors in many areas of life. His goal is for PortfolioPilot to become the go-to financial advisor in your pocket, offering clarity, confidence, and convenience. About the guest: Alexander Harmsen, a tech entrepreneur passionate about AI, finance, and autonomy. He founded PortfolioPilot.com, an AI Financial Advisor with over $30 billion in assets on platform. Previously, he founded and sold Iris Automation, worked on NASA's Mars Helicopter, and went through Y Combinator. He's raised over $30M in venture capital and was recognized by Forbes 30 Under 30.   Connect with Alexander: Website Global Predictions: https://www.globalpredictions.com/ Website Portfolio Pilot: https://portfoliopilot.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=organic LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexanderharmsen/   Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/  #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A few years ago we had the pleasure of speaking with Jonathan Ogurchak about the success of his company STACK. Now we have invited him back to see how the business has progressed and learn about his new venture, Zeal Specialty Pharmacy.   As a pharmacist, Jonathan observed significant inefficiencies and a need to modernize processes. This set him on a course to develop and deliver better technology that would ultimately improve patient care. Today, he is a recognized serial entrepreneur, a leader in technology, and a man whose latest endeavor is centered on the delivery of medication to individuals with rare diseases.   Here are highlights of our conversation:   -An Update on STACK: The business has expanded its product offerings including a new product called On Queue, an operations workflow platform to enhance the pharmacy patient journey and capture valuable data. They now have customers in the US, Canada, Mexico, and Dubai.   -Healthcare Compliance: STACK software helps organizations manage compliance by providing easy access to regulations for different states and purposes and automating processes for accreditation, compliance, and training for pharmacies.   -Zeal's Branding Strategy: Jonathan explained the origin of the company name "Zeal" as a play on the term "zebra" in the medical community, representing rare and orphan diseases. The zebra also represents an effort to connect with patient communities through tasteful and purposeful branding.   -Advice for Founders: Finding a mentor and maintaining a network for personal and professional growth is critical for new founders. He shared his experiences as a business owner and entrepreneur, highlighting the need to foster a healthy balance between work and personal life. He shared the significance of family and prioritizing time with loved ones, as businesses and jobs can change but family remains constant.   -Building Culture:  Jonathan discussed the pharmacy's leadership development initiative, which includes a book club focused on customer service and growth. He mentioned the book "Unreasonable Hospitality" and the Disney Institute program. Jonathan also shared that he encourages team members to explore different industries for innovative ideas.         About the guest: Jonathan Ogurchak, PharmD, CSP, CPHIMS, is a specialty pharmacy veteran, having served in numerous roles across pharmacies, associations, and education for the last 15 years.   Currently, he is the CEO & Founder of STACK, a software firm with two commercially available platforms: its namesake, STACK, a pharmacy information management platform designed to curate and organize information necessary to run successful pharmacies, professional associations, and higher education institutions; and OnQueue, a workflow platform built to optimize the patient journey for pharmacies and clinics. He is also the CEO and co-founder of Zeal Specialty Pharmacy, an independent rare-disease pharmacy leveraging both the above technologies to create the best experiences possible for patients, prescribers, and pharma partners across the country.   Jonathan is an adjunct faculty through Duquesne University and the University of Pittsburgh, precepts pharmacy students virtually at 25 schools of pharmacy nationwide, focused on specialty pharmacy programs and processes, and his specialty pharmacy textbook is in pre-publication.   Connect with Jonathan: Website: https://www.managewithstack.com/ Website: https://www.zealsp.com/   Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/    #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We always say your best business partner can be in the most surprising places. Today, we discuss why holding a global mindset and helping new companies with their first funding boost, regardless of location, makes for a healthier business ecosystem.   Jenny Fielding, the co-founder and managing partner of Everywhere Ventures, is a big believer in the game-changing impact of global entrepreneurship. From her own journey as an accidental entrepreneur turned venture capitalist, she stresses the importance of backing founders in the early stages with key resources like mentorship, funding, and connections.   With investments spread across the world, Jenny pushes for a global perspective in entrepreneurship, urging entrepreneurs to embrace diverse cultures for resilience and adaptability. Her "everywhere mindset" highlights the potential of dynamic startup scenes globally, motivating entrepreneurs to broaden their horizons and expand their knowledge to thrive in an interconnected world.   These are the highlights of our conversation:   -Jenny's global network of 500+ founders and operators helps source early-stage companies from all over the world. These founders act as her eyes and ears on the ground. -Why she invests at the pre-seed stage and focuses more on the people than the ideas. She looks for visionary, resilient founders who are building for a future that doesn't exist yet. - Her new book, Venture Everywhere, follows the journey through 12 countries where Jenny interviewed founders who overcame major obstacles to build billion-dollar companies. It's all about having a global, open-minded, resilient mindset. -Jenny became a founder accidentally, starting her first company while still working full-time. Her second company failed, but that experience taught her valuable lessons she now uses to support other founders as a venture capitalist. About the guest: Jenny Fielding is one of the most active global pre-seed investors in the world, having invested in 300+ companies as the first money in. As the Co-founder and Managing Partner of  Everywhere Ventures, Jenny has built a thriving community of 500+ founders and operators who help source, diligence, and invest in the next generation of startups across 3 core verticals: money, health, and work.   Prior to launching her own fund, Jenny spent 7.5 years as the Managing Director of Techstars where she invested in a portfolio of companies with a current market cap over $10B. Jenny is a 2x founder, a lawyer by training, and an adjunct professor at Columbia University and Cornell Tech.   Connect with Jenny: Website: https://www.jennyfielding.com/ Website: https://everywhere.vc/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennyfielding/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/jefielding   Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/    #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

 What if you could look into a crystal ball and see exactly what your family's long-term care needs will be in the future?   In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Lily Vittayarukskul, the brilliant CEO and co-founder of Waterlily, an AI-powered platform that uses over 500 million data points to help families plan for the financial and emotional realities of aging. Lily is a World Economic Forum Top Innovator, a patented inventor, and someone who turned a heartbreaking personal experience into a mission-driven company that is disrupting the way we think about long-term care.   As someone with two parents in their 80s, this topic hits close to home for me—and I know it will for many of you too. We talked about everything from how she built Waterlily and earned the trust of major investors to the importance of planning so families aren't torn apart in times of crisis.   These are the highlights of our conversation:   - Waterlily Predicts Long-Term Care Needs with AI: Waterlily uses over 500 million data points to help families predict their future long-term care needs based on lookalike families. It's like looking into a data-driven future mirror.   -A Personal Family Crisis Sparked the Mission: Lily was only 16 when a long-term care event involving her aunt devastated her family emotionally and financially. That experience inspired her to shift from a career in aerospace to founding a company focused on preventing that same pain for others.   - Bold Pivot from B2C: Originally aimed at consumers, Waterlily pivoted to serve the financial services industry, empowering advisors to have better long-term care conversations with clients. This B2B strategy became the core of their scalable, subscription-based model.   - Built for Impact, Not Just Speed: Instead of rushing a product to market, Lily spent two years building a strong technical and data foundation before launching. That decision paid off with major partnerships, including Prudential and several Fortune 100 companies.   - Culture of Trust and Smart Scaling: Despite impressive growth, Lily keeps her team intentionally lean, leveraging large language models and automation to scale efficiently. She emphasizes trust and alignment with all at her company as the foundation for sustainable success.   About the guest: Lily Vittayarukskul, Waterlily's CEO and Co-Founder, started college at 14, and by 16, she was venturing into a career in aerospace engineering as an intern at NASA. However, that same year, her life took a dramatic turn when her Aunt, who raised her and was a cornerstone in her first-generation immigrant family, was diagnosed with terminal stage colon cancer. The ensuing financial and emotional devastation, exacerbated by their family's lack of preparedness, tore permanent rifts in her family, and compelled her to pivot her career from aerospace to a lifelong dedication to building solutions in healthcare.   Fueled by personal tragedy and a resolve to forge change, Lily graduated from UC Berkeley with a bachelor's degree in Genetics and Data Science and led product and engineering at multiple startups before founding Waterlily.   Connect with Lily: Website: https://www.waterlily.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lily-vittayarukskul/   Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/    #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I am happy to introduce you to a great mind from my circle here in Chicago.   Lisa Guillot, a best-selling author and expert in personal branding, offers a transformative perspective on the significance of a clear vision framework for achieving success. With a rich background in design and branding, Lisa specializes in helping leaders craft vibrant and purposeful personal and professional brands. Her approach is encapsulated in her book, "Find Your Clear Vision," and the CLEAR methodology, which stands for Clear Concept, Legit and Long Lasting, Expanded Energy, Aspirational Success, and Rooted in Celebration.   By promoting self-awareness, authenticity, and intuition, Guillot's framework empowers individuals to align their values and goals, fostering sustainable engagement and passion in their personal and professional endeavors.   Lisa unleashes her high energy and insights in this conversation, touching on:   - Energizing Teams: A leader must invest in a team member's vision and development to build trust.   - Workplace Culture: Senior leaders need to understand that they are in charge of the 'cultural protection' of the workplace. Maintaining a fast-paced work schedule is challenging and unsustainable. A leader must have self-awareness and both give and receive feedback.   - Clear Vision Framework for Leadership: Crafting a clear concept for the vision ensures it is legit and long-lasting. The framework aims to help individuals identify their blind spots, develop self-awareness, and share their vision with their teams.   - Vision, Energy, and Aspirational Success: One must embrace a vision that excites and motivates them as it will be their guiding force over time. Leaders also need to build an "aspirational success" approach to their careers where they create new ideas and realities for the future and then build milestones to achieve them.   - Intuition, Self-Trust, and Celebration: Lisa discusses the importance of trusting oneself and making clear decisions. She suggests a simple coin-flip technique to help strengthen intuition and trust in decision-making. It is also important to have fun in work and life, and celebrate small wins regularly rather than waiting for big rewards at the end of long-term goals.   - Managing "Brilliant Jerks" in Teams:  In terms of a healthy culture, Lisa emphasized the need to recognize and manage "brilliant jerks" or "brilliant assholes". Also discussed was how senior leaders can protect themselves from being perceived as such by seeking honest feedback from an external coach.   Connect with Lisa: Website: bebrightlisa.com  Instagram: instagram.com/bebrightlisa LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisagguillot/   Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/    #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From buying property while in his Harvard dorm to starting a business with his wife, Derrick has made it his life's mission to improve the process for and access to real estate investing. Derrick Barker, the co-founder and CEO of Nectar, is at the forefront of transforming the real estate finance landscape through innovative technology solutions. Based in Atlanta, his company provides liquidity to commercial real estate owners with low-leverage, cash-flowing assets, enabling them to grow their portfolios and contribute to community development.  Derrick envisions a future where rapid property closings become the norm, empowering medium-sized real estate sponsors to create strong, balanced communities by enhancing their access to capital.  Here are the highlights of our conversation: - Nectar stands out in the finance and real estate technology industry by providing liquidity to owners of commercial real estate, specifically focusing on low-leverage, cash-flowing assets to support strong real estate operators.  - Derrick envisions a future where commercial real estate deals can be closed in a week or less, with the ultimate goal of achieving one-day closings through technological advancements. Their vision is to be a tech-first company and in that, drive more efficiency than anyone else in the market. - By empowering medium-sized real estate sponsors, Nectar aims to equip them with the necessary tools and resources to build thriving communities and meet the demands of the housing market, ultimately tipping the balance of power in their favor for a more robust and sustainable housing market. - The company's commitment to sustainable business practices sets it apart in the market, offering high return, consistent cash-flowing investment products that mitigate risks associated with construction, lease-up, or refinance. - With a vision to leverage technology and capital for the greater good, Nectar aims to empower developers and small to medium-sized companies to address the pressing issue of affordable housing.  - The success of Nectar is attributed to its well-structured team functionality, with key roles such as underwriting, product development, origination, and servicing playing crucial parts in the company's operations. While there is a core team based in Atlanta, Nectar also utilizes a distributed team for specific roles that do not require in-person presence. This structured approach enables Nectar to efficiently deliver its unique fast and flexible capital solutions to its customers and investors. - As a leader and business owner, Derrick believes there is no better learning than experience, so take action and get it done. About the guest: Derrick Barker is the co-founder and CEO of Nectar. He started buying real estate from his dorm room at Harvard. After Harvard, he spent 3 years trading complex securities at Goldman Sachs while simultaneously building a 500+ unit real estate portfolio in his hometown of Atlanta. He left Goldman Sachs to focus on real estate full-time, eventually growing his portfolio to more than 4,700 units and $400 million in asset value. Connect with Derrick: Website: https://www.usenectar.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrick-barker-3b1590a/  Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/  Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/   #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the complexity and demands of technology continue to rise in our business lives, CEOs need to explore all available avenues of how to identify and attract top talent. This is where nearshoring comes in. Nearshoring is a valuable vehicle to augment existing teams, support rapid scaling, or bring new knowledge into an organization quickly.   To learn more about nearshoring we turned to Brian Samson, an entrepreneur who has lived and established multiple companies in Latin America. Because of this he holds unparalleled insight into leveraging untapped talent pools of highly educated individuals in Central and South America. Brian holds a passion for helping businesses thrive by introducing great talent to great companies but along the way we also learned he is a caring human who will always be found rooting for the Chicago Cubs.   Here are highlights of our conversation:   -      Nearshore Defined: Moving jobs or tasks within the same time zone, as opposed to offshoring which involves moving across an ocean. The benefit of nearshoring is finding highly skilled talent regardless of the location that speaks English and works the same business day as the US.   -      Challenging Latin America Misconceptions: The discussion focused on myth busting some perceptions of Latin America, particularly Mexico, based on media portrayals and personal experiences.   -      Fostering Children: Brian shared his personal experience of becoming a foster family after hearing about the challenges faced by children in the foster care system. He punctuated the need for more good homes for the 440,000 children in the foster care system in the US, adding that less than 3% ever make it to college.   Brian Samson is a seasoned entrepreneur with a nine-year track record as the founder and CEO in the Nearshore (LATAM) industry. Having lived in Argentina and established multiple companies throughout Latin America that serve the U.S. market, Brian has an unparalleled insight into leveraging untapped talent pools. His journey includes raising $2 million as a founder, scaling his company to 80 team members, and achieving three successful exits. He has held significant roles such as Department Head at Lending Club during its pre-IPO phase, which IPO'd with a $10 billion valuation, and was part of the executive team at Sosh before its acquisition by Postmates and eventually Uber. Brian holds an MBA from UCLA Anderson and leads as a General Partner at Hang10X Capital, making numerous investments in promising ventures. Away from his professional endeavors, Brian's personal life is equally fulfilling. He and his wife are licensed foster parents and have adopted a baby girl from foster care, now raising two toddlers along with a Boston Terrier puppy in their Oahu home. A Chicago native and a staunch Cubs fan, Brian enjoys the island life, which includes the beautiful weather and vibrant community. With a passion that wakes him every day since 2015, Brian is committed to connecting exceptional talent across the Americas with hyper-growth companies in the U.S.   Connect with Brian: Website: www.plugg.tech LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briansamson/   Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/  Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/  X: @DisruptiveCEO     #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sandra J. Horton is a well-known author and speaker who offers valuable insights and practical strategies for today's organizational challenges. As a systemic leadership sustainability strategist, she penned "Activate Success: Tips, Tools and Insights to be a Leaders in Your Niche," a book packed with 27 activators to help leaders excel in diverse situations.   Sandra's take on sustainable leadership highlights the importance of aligning values and being ready to address and adapt to rapid change. By promoting mindful, empathetic, and proactive leadership, she urges leaders to build resilience, support their teams effectively, and navigate change with clarity and ethical integrity.   Here are the highlights of our conversation:   - Leadership Requires Conscious Change Management: Sandra emphasizes that many leaders stand in a reactionary mode, making decisions under stress rather than responding thoughtfully. She advocates for leaders to raise their consciousness, pause, and assess their approach to change before reacting.   - Change Readiness: In our current environment, leaders must be prepared to navigate barriers and the moving complexities of business.   - Effective Communication in Change Management: One of the biggest reasons change initiatives fail is the lack of clear communication. Leaders must explain the ‘what and how' of change and the ‘why', ensuring alignment with team values and fostering trust.   -The Importance of Self-Awareness and Adaptability: Sandra highlights the need for leaders to understand their change tendencies. Some naturally embrace change, while others prefer stability. Leaders should be mindful of their emotional triggers and practice "pattern interruption" to control their responses.   -Creating Psychological Safety and Collaboration: Leaders should encourage curiosity, open dialogue, and co-creation in decision-making, ensuring alignment across different personality types and work styles.   - The Power of Sustainable Leadership: True leadership sustainability is about maintaining personal energy and resilience. Leaders must manage their emotional states, practice self-care, and create environments where teams can thrive without burnout.   About the guest: Sandra J. Horton is a Systemic Leadership Sustainability Strategist, Executive Coach, and Speaker, dedicated to helping CEOs, executives, and senior leaders create sustainable, high-impact leadership models that prevent burnout, build resilient teams, and drive long-term organizational success.   As the Founder of Activate Success Edge and creator of the Activate Success Roadmap, Sandra provides executive coaching, consulting, and leadership workshops that empower leaders to navigate disruption, foster adaptability, and implement systemic change. With an MA in Leadership, certifications in Change Management (PROSCI) & Emotional Intelligence (EQ-i 2.0/360), and years of experience guiding executives through transformation, she equips leaders with the tools to lead with clarity, confidence, and long-term impact.     Connect with Sandra: Website: www.activatesuccess.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandra-j-horton/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/sandrajhorton   Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/    #CEO #leadership #startup #founder #business #businesspodcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Imagine if, within 9 years of starting a company, you could grow to have 34 million people a month interacting on your platform. And that is the story you will hear today from Adrián Ridner.   Driven by a mission to provide life-changing and accessible education, Study.com is one of the largest online learning platforms for K-12 through college and beyond. With learners and educators representing more than 11,000 schools, Study.com is focused on supporting students, teachers, and the teacher pipeline. The platform also seeks to make college-level education accessible and friendly for the non-traditional student and help professionals prep for and ace licensing exams.   Here are the highlights of our conversation:   - The Personal Why: Hailing from Argentina, having lived in four countries, and learning three languages (Argentina, Venezuela, Brazil, and the US), Adrián's experience of assimilating into the education systems has influenced his passion point around it. Adrián also highlighted the personal aspect of his journey, as he is the first in his family to graduate from college and has a brother with special needs who has been able to go farther than doctor's projections.   - Global Impact:  Adrián revealed that he co-founded a company in October 2015, which has since grown to support 30+ million learners and educators a month. He is particularly proud of the university-level courses that span a variety of topics and can transfer to listed colleges. They project that these courses have saved students almost $475 million in tuition costs over the last five years.   - Accessible Education and Social Impact:  Study.com is proud of its investment in social impact programs, including "Keys to the Classroom," which aims to increase the diversity in the teacher workforce and help aspiring educators become teachers. The program's success was attributed to the collaboration of all stakeholders involved.   - Study.com: Adrián's Journey and Success: Adrián and his co-founder built two other companies before study.com.  He emphasized the importance of understanding the market,  thinking strategically, and learning from your failures.  Study.com was a 'bootstrap' venture that has paid off, as the business has enjoyed sustainable growth and profitability from the first year.   - Keeping Balanced as a CEO: Adrián spoke about his family, particularly his twins, and his passion for soccer. He also shared his interest in AI and its potential for personalized learning. He expressed his excitement about the opportunities AI presents while also acknowledging the potential risks it poses. He shared his recent readings on AI, including "Co-intelligence" and "The Coming Wave."   About the guest: Adrián Ridner is co-founder and CEO of Study.com, an education platform supporting more than 34 million learners and educators a month across K12 curriculum, college courses and test preparation. As a Latino EdTech founder and first-generation college graduate, Adrián has spent the past two decades focused on making education accessible for under-supported learners.   Adrián has been committed to advancing personalized and engaging learning at scale for students of varying needs in the U.S. and across the world. Study.com's short video lessons and online courses help students achieve their educational goals and degrees needed to unlock economic opportunities.     Connect with Adrián: Website: https://study.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianridner/   Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO    #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Consumers are spending more money than ever on health supplement products, and yet, most people are confused, frustrated, and unsure of what is truthful and what works. Enter Caroline Carralero, a founder on a mission to help solve the metabolic health crisis and bring clarity to this corner of self-care healthcare.   While Caroline started Daily Nouri out of her kitchen, she has built the business into an Omnichannel entity with a presence online and in retailers such as Walmart. Daily Nouri offers cutting-edge, scientifically-backed, affordable probiotics and other products aiming to provide genuine and impactful health and well-being solutions.   So how do you cut through an overcrowded, competitive market to be a stand-out brand? Well, that's what we wanted to know.   Through our conversations, we touched on:   - How Caroline's early experiences as an entrepreneur in college led her to have founded, advised, and invested in over 10 food, beverage, technology, and sustainable resource companies. - Her passion around gut microbiome health and the connection to overall well-being, impacting immune function, brain health, hormone health, and metabolic health. - The importance of clinical research, safety, traceability, and quality in product development to serve customers at different ages and stages of life. - The focus on being an innovative brand, such as the capsule-in-capsule technology that survives the stomach acid more effectively, thus delivering more probiotics deeper into the gut. - Building Daily Nouri with a commitment to boot strap until the first major contract was confirmed.    About the guest: Caroline Carralero founded Daily Nouri with the belief that gut health is the cornerstone of overall well-being. Recognizing the need for more effective and accessible daily probiotics, she set out to create solutions that support individuals striving to maintain their health while managing the complexities of modern life.   Daily Nouri's mission is to make the highest quality, clinically supported probiotic solutions available to all. After years of research and development, the company has introduced gut microbiome products designed for all ages and life stages. Today, Daily Nouri products can be found both online and on retail shelves nationwide. Whether on the coasts or in the heartland, customers can rely on Daily Nouri for premium probiotic solutions that support their health and wellness journey.   Connect with Caroline: Website: https://dailynouri.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-carralero-66156645/   Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web, and it is ranked the number 6 CEO podcast to listen to in 2025! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO    #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever thought about your communication fingerprints as a leader? Or the gap between what you say and what your teams hear? Well, we thought it would be interesting to talk with Oscar Trimboli, a renowned thought leader and expert on the transformative power of listening in effective leadership.   Drawing from his extensive background, including his tenure as marketing director for Microsoft Australia, Oscar has dedicated himself to decoding the behaviors of exceptional listeners. Oscar has authored much on this topic including his most recent book, How to Listen: Discover the Hidden Key to Better Communication.   Oscar believes that true leadership lies in the ability to listen beyond surface-level dialogue, urging leaders to address systemic issues through thematic listening and the exploration of diverse perspectives. By providing tools such as the Listening Quiz, Oscar empowers leaders to evaluate and enhance their listening skills, underscoring that attentive listening can significantly elevate organizational success and leadership effectiveness.   Through our conversations, we touched on points such as:   - Active listening and deep listening are crucial skills for leaders, focusing on understanding what isn't said in conversations.   - Leaders can anticipate and navigate complex team challenges by actively listening and sensing emotions.   - Transformational leadership through listening involves uncovering systemic issues and sensing emotions beyond spoken words.   - The speed difference between speaking and listening can lead to distractions, emphasizing the importance of how things are said.   - Identifying the ‘Four Villains of Listening', including dramatic, interrupter, lost, and shrewd barriers, hinder effective communications.   - Encouraging self-connection with listening abilities through an assessment can lead to improved communication and relationships.   About the guest:   Oscar Trimboli is a best-selling author, host of the Apple award-winning podcast Deep Listening, and a sought-after keynote speaker. Along with the Deep Listening Ambassador Community, he is on a quest to create 100 million deep listeners in the workplace. Through his work, Oscar has experienced first-hand the transformational impact leaders can have when they listen beyond words. He believes that when leadership teams focus their attention and listening, they will build organizations that create powerful legacies for the people they serve – today and, more importantly, for future generations.   Connect with Oscar: Take the Listening Quiz: www.listeningquiz.com Website: https://www.oscartrimboli.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oscartrimboli/   Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO    #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We know this has happened to you. You go to pick up a prescription and are floored by the price. Or even worse, you have had a loved one diagnosed with a rare disease only to find limited treatment options.   The pharmaceutical industry needs drastic change, and Dr. Jo Varshney is all in on making that happen. As Founder and CEO, VeriSIM Life, Jo leads a team of world-class scientists, machine learning engineers, and in silico simulation experts bringing clarity to drug development through computational sciences rather than the existing trial-and-error experimentation approach. However, intelligence and knowledge aside, Jo is a business leader on a mission and one of the most enjoyable founders I have had the pleasure of speaking with to date.   If you listen to this episode you will hear us touch on: VeriSIM Life's Mission: The company uses "hybrid AI" to create simulations of human and animal biology to speed up drug development, producing a "translational index" that predicts clinical risks and mitigates them, akin to a credit score for drugs.   Team Dynamics: Jo emphasizes the importance of having a dedicated, collaborative, and ambitious team at VeriSIM Life. She explains finding the unique formula for building their culture and that she values employees who have a "chip on their shoulder" and want to prove themselves and drive the mission while avoiding "genius jerks" who lack humility and empathy.   AI and Biology: Jo discusses the hype surrounding AI and the need for realistic expectations. VeriSIM Life focuses on appreciating the complexity of biology and combining AI with mathematical and knowledge systems to improve accuracy and reduce biases. She shares how they identified a new drug for pulmonary hypertension and how with VeriSIM's tools they greatly reduced costs and timelines.   Advice to New Founders: Jo differentiates between "missionary" and "mercenary" founders, advising them to stay passionate but separate themselves from the stories of rejection and challenges.   Continuous Learning: Jo recommends the book "Courage to be Disliked," which resonated with her deeply, reflecting her belief in the importance of being true to oneself and not being deterred by others' opinions.   About the guest: Dr. Jo Varshney was born to a pharmacological pedigree in India. Being introduced to the world of drug development and research at a young age, and an ethic of competitive achievement, she developed a passion and understanding for science and technology much earlier than most.   Today, Varshney is the Founder and CEO of VeriSIM Life, and the inventor of VeriSIM Life's BIOiSIM core technology. A virtual drug development engine that harnesses the power of traditional statistical modeling along with artificial intelligence and machine learning, BIOiSIM enables pharma and biotech professionals to bring more lifesaving and cost-efficient therapies to patients faster than ever before.   Over the past several years, Dr. Varshney has front-led numerous collaborative engagements with a host of pharmaceutical clients, government agencies, academic/medical institutes and industry innovators. She is a dynamic and celebrated leader and has received numerous accolades as well as delivered keynotes at several conferences.   Connect with Jo: Website: www.verisimlife.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jyotika-jo-varshney/   Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO    #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Leadership has always come with challenges and stress but today's business environment has escalated the pressures on CEOs far beyond where they were just a decade ago. In this episode, we talk with Andrea Petrone who has been recognized as one of the top 2% of executive coaches in the UK.   Andrea became a CEO at 35 making his mark in the energy industry. Over his career, Andrea has lived and worked in 7 different countries, gaining invaluable insights into leading international teams and organizations. Now, he is on a mission to help others be able to leave a legacy of remarkable achievements and remarkable good. But in his work, he hears all too often about the challenges facing CEOs today.   If you listen to this episode you will hear us touch on: ● Some of the forces and pressures affecting the CEO today, and why it weakens their position as a leader. ● How CEOs are given less time to make decisions and yet are expected to make faster impacts and turnarounds for the organizations that they serve. ● How CEOs can begin to lack confidence in their leadership and become unsure if they are the right decisions. ● That emotional regulation is always on guard which can impact the ability to be authentic and human. ● The worry about effectively mobilizing people and building a culture of performing because execution is always top of mind. ● Tips and considerations for CEOs and leaders to help protect themselves from becoming overcome by fear.   About the guest: Andrea Petrone is a top-ranked performance and executive coach, facilitator, and speaker. Known as the "CEO Whisperer," Andrea partners with CEOs and their leadership teams to excel in high-stakes environments where the pressure to perform is relentless. With over 20 years of international C-suite experience in energy, industrial sectors, and consulting, Andrea has held leadership roles across six countries on three continents. His advisory work spans North America to the Middle East, supporting clients from Fortune 500 companies to emerging high-growth firms. Andrea is originally from Italy and has worked across the globe. He now centers his work out of London, UK. As a coach and the host of The World Class Leaders Show, Andrea helps corporate CEOs and executives unlock actionable strategies from top CEOs and industry leaders.     Connect with Andrea: Website: https://www.andreapetrone.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreapetrone/   Do you want to establish authority and lead confidently from Day One as a CEO? Grab your FREE copy of “10 Foolproof Ways New CEOs Establish Authority From Day One” here: https://10foolproofways.andreapetrone.com/   World Class Leaders podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@andreapetrone7527 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-world-class-leaders-show/id1588150545 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0rWvMSSUGtbeBUcLXytR9H   Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO    #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If ever an industry needs a bit of disruption, it's the home equity loan or refinancing space. Well, we had the opportunity to sit down with Michael Gifford and hear how Splitero is revolutionizing how homeowners can access their home equity and feel more empowered when doing so. This interview weaves insights into Michael's founder's journey and the mission behind Splitero to deliver a greater power of choice to homeowners in their time of need. (Audience note: please investigate options before selecting any financial service). Key Highlights: • When the Co-founder Equation is Good: Michael shares insights into the positive relationship with his co-founder, which has been fundamental to their success in building operations in 13 states with plans for nationwide expansion. • Building the Right Team: Michael explains Splitero's thorough interview process and the importance of cultural fit. Multiple leaders interview candidates to ensure diverse perspectives and a strong cultural match. • Go-to-Market Strategies: Why they are successfully growing business via direct-to-consumer marketing and partnerships with licensed mortgage brokers. • Founder Lessons: Michael shared valuable tips and advice to fellow entrepreneurs such as staying focused and avoiding distractions that can derail progress. • Recommended Reading: Michael recommends the book "The Anxious Generation," which explores the impact of social media and technology on society. About the Guest: Michael Gifford is the CEO and co-founder of Splitero and a career real estate expert who witnessed firsthand the lack of resources available to homeowners when they most need to access the value trapped in their home equity. Throughout his career in residential real estate, Michael has acquired and dispositioned over 1,000 homes throughout the West Coast and originated more than $242M of residential fix and flip loans (BPLs) for investors. Michael was fortunate to be part of the initial and founding teams at Kiavi (LendingHome) and Sundae. Michael is a member of YPO San Diego and an advocate for the entrepreneur community. Connect with Michael: Website: www.splitero.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/michaeldgifford Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So excited to bring back a favorite past guest of mine, Jeffrey Klubeck, a pillar of his industry. Jeffrey is a well-known coach, consultant, and leadership expert, who is all about emphasizing the importance of soft skills for building strong leaders, teams, and organizations. Known for his book "The Integrity Game," Klubeck shares his wisdom on communication, emotional intelligence, and change management through tailored corporate programs and teaching gigs at his old stomping grounds. And now he has a new book co-authored with his high-school aged daughter on leadership wisdom we can all use. He's big on authenticity in leadership, pointing out that while AI can streamline things, what really matters is genuine communication. According to Jeffrey, leadership is all about creating an environment where teams can shine, focusing on integrity and meaningful conversations to empower individuals and drive organizational success. Here are the highlights of our discussion: - Soft skills are essential for building strong leaders, teams, and organizations. - Slowing down and being intentional as a leader helps build trust and create a positive ripple effect in the workplace. - Authentic intelligence in leadership is crucial for maintaining genuine connections and communication. - Creating the conditions for teams to achieve desired outcomes is more important than relying on power or grit for leadership. - Being accountable for one's actions and understanding different perspectives fosters better relationships and personal growth. - The Integrity Game is a unique approach to teaching integrity and leadership principles through storytelling, tailored to specific professions. About the guest: Jeffrey Klubeck, Author of The Integrity Game® which is evolving into a comprehensive soft skills development company. An upbeat and charismatic coach and consultant. He focuses on how to make businesses and entrepreneurs thrive while not losing a sense of what makes a company outstanding: leadership. Jeffrey is a successful author that has worked with small and big businesses. Connect with Jeffrey: Website: https://theintegritygame.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/getaklu/ Book: https://www.amazon.com/Integrity-Game-Motivation-Accountability-Results/dp/1733086269 Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Can everyone tell when you use AI to write copy to write ads? Alex Persky-Stern, CEO of Waymark, is at the forefront of harnessing generative AI to transform video advertising for small businesses. He champions the idea that AI can significantly enhance the creative process, allowing for the production of high-quality video ads that small businesses might not have been able to achieve otherwise. Under his leadership, Waymark is pioneering projects that push the boundaries of content production, showcasing the potential of AI to revolutionize creative storytelling and advertising strategies. Alex envisions a future where AI-driven creativity not only optimizes and automates content creation but also maintains the authentic human touch necessary for genuine audience engagement. Here are the highlights of our discussion: - AI technology is driving innovation in the creative field, particularly in video ad production for small businesses. By analyzing brand assets and language, companies like Waymark can create professional and engaging video ads while maintaining authenticity in AI-generated content. - Teams like Waymark are utilizing AI technology to produce groundbreaking work, such as films like "The Frost," showcasing advancements in AI that enable the creation of innovative narratives. This highlights the potential of AI as a powerful tool in enhancing creative production and generating new opportunities within the industry. - The future of marketing and advertising is set to be revolutionized by AI Trends and Creative Automation, focusing on creative optimization and automation. The emergence of GenAI is reshaping the landscape of creative technology, enabling platforms to optimize targeting and generate compelling content for businesses while emphasizing the importance of authenticity and human input in content creation for meaningful audience connections. About the guest: Alex Persky-Stern has been the CEO of Waymark since 2022. He leads the company's efforts to leverage generative AI to make video production radically easy and available to everyone. Under Persky-Stern, Waymark has partnered with media names like Paramount, The E.W. Scripps Company, FOX TV Stations, Spectrum Reach, Gray Television and more. Persky-Stern has also overseen Waymark's International expansion through partnerships in Australia, New Zealand, Sweden and the United Kingdom. During his leadership, the company has been featured in major publications as a leader in AI video, and was listed as one of the Fastest Growing Companies in the USA . Connect with Alex: Website: https://waymark.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/waymarkmarketing/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

276 Setting Sights High: Equity and Accessibility in Vision Care with Matthias Hofmann, Co-founder & CEO of Eyebot; Boston, MA, USA We love speaking with MedTech founders and so we were excited to have Matthias Hofmann, the co-founder and CEO of Eyebot join us to explain how his team is transforming the way we receive vision care. Before this interview, we had no idea that 25% of US counties lack a practicing eye care provider. We also hadn't thought about the increasing shortage of vision care providers or that our screen-obsessed society is generating a higher per capita need for corrective eye care. And for many, the cost of vision appointments and glasses are so expensive that they forgo this critical pillar of health care. Today, the Eyebot team is hoping to address the healthcare deserts in the U.S. and work with organizations like WHO and others, their technology can make a difference globally. Here are the highlights of our discussion: - Embrace Dynamism: Startups are incredibly dynamic. Project plans can quickly become obsolete, and flexibility is key to navigating this unpredictability. While the first vision care focused startup Matthias worked on had hurdles it could not overcome, that foundation led the way to take up the challenge again once the technology had advanced. - Overcoming Barriers and Scaling: Eyebot addresses the doctor shortage problem by integrating technology into eyeglass retailers and online stores, expanding first in the New England area, California, and other U.S. states. - Self-Serve Vision Centers: Eyebot's kiosks provide self-serve vision tests using infrared light, making it easy for anyone to check their eyes without prior knowledge or instructions. - Immediate Results and Doctor Referrals: The vision tests take about 90 seconds and can detect over 30 different eye disorders. Once an individual completes the vision test, they use a well-tested framework for telemedicine to ensure compliance and effectiveness and to deliver prescriptions and analysis. While technology can enhance accessibility, routine comprehensive eye exams by human doctors remain crucial. Matthias Hofmann is the Co-founder & CEO of Eyebot, an outcome-focused technology company where tech innovation meets vision care. Founded in 2021, Eyebot is on a mission to make eye care more accessible for everyone - at the touch of a button. What used to take days or weeks can now be accomplished in minutes. Eyebot has been backed by leading deep tech VCs and the U.S. government's National Science Foundation via the SBIR program and in 2024, raised $6M in a seed round to propel their expansion. Matthias holds significant experience in new technology development, Medtech, startups, and securing capital through prior leadership roles such as Director & Product Development at Lumicell, Team Lead at Formlabs, R&D Lead at EyeNetra, and postdoc work at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital. Matthias attended Virginia Tech where he accentuated his engineering degree with a Ph.D. in philosophy. Connect with Matthias Website: https://www.eyebot.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mchofmann/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rarely do you meet people who you just know your life is richer because of that meeting - well, Chad Foster is one of those individuals. Author of Blind AmbitionTM, Chad is a globally recognized speaker and advocate for resilience, sharing his compelling journey from blindness at 21 to becoming a Fortune 500 corporate leader and motivational figure. Chad's life story is the embodiment of living within disruption and staying grounded in purpose. Today, he is on a mission to help others thrive through challenge and change. Chad's framework, the Five Pillars of Resilience—choosing your response, telling empowering stories, visualizing greatness, embracing discomfort, and aligning mindset with action—reflects his belief that overcoming adversity is vital for character development. Drawing on his experiences in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and his upcoming PBS docu-series, Chad illustrates the importance of adaptability and self-care, urging others to find purpose in their work to successfully navigate life's challenges. Highlights of what we discussed: - Chad's leadership journey through his blindness, successful business conquests and now navigating the world as a globally sought after speaker. - How resilience, choice, and mindset are key in overcoming adversity and achieving success. - That recognizing choice, telling empowering stories, visualizing greatness, embracing discomfort, and aligning mindset with action are crucial for resilience. - How embracing discomfort and pushing oneself out of the comfort zone is essential for personal growth and character development. - It is only through harnessing pure ambition he has conquered becoming a blind black diamond skier. - How navigating global travel challenges as a blind traveler with a service dog requires patience and adaptability. - Self-care and understanding the formula for peak performance are important for maintaining optimal productivity. Chad E. Foster is a billion-dollar revenue generator, job creator, and tech innovator—and he's blind. Despite losing his eyesight as a young adult, Chad turned obstacles into opportunities, becoming the first blind executive to graduate from Harvard Business School's leadership program and pioneering CRM software for the visually impaired. A former Fortune 500 executive, Chad drove billions in revenue and industry-leading growth by embracing resilience and innovation. Now a globally sought-after speaker, he equips companies like Google, IBM, and Microsoft with actionable tools to transform challenges into opportunities. His dynamic keynotes combine heartfelt stories, practical strategies, and a direct, inspiring style to ignite change and unlock potential. Connect with Chad: Website: https://chadefoster.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chadfoster/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Angel Vossough, the brains behind BetterAI, is shaking up the AI game by focusing on making wine searches and recommendations more personalized through her cool project, VinoVoss. Angel and the team blend their skills and vast wine knowledge to craft an AI solution that opens the gateway for everyone to become a better wine expert as well as guide choices to lesser known quality brands. A big advocate for diversity and inclusivity, Angel also discusses the significance of diverse AI training data and backs initiatives like "returnship" to empower women in tech, ensuring their perspectives shape more effective AI systems. So pour your favorite red, white or sparkling beverage and take in this episode. Highlights of our conversation: - BetterAI is transforming the wine industry by using data science and AI to simplify wine selection through their VinoVoss project, ensuring a comprehensive and unbiased shopping experience for consumers. - The Smart Sommelier feature partners with wine shops to offer personalized wine recommendations through conversational AI, allowing customers to make purchases directly through the platform for a seamless experience. - Angel stresses the importance of diverse perspectives, including women's opinions, in training data for AI systems to create inclusive and effective solutions that cater to diverse consumer needs. - BetterAI's focus on high-quality data is evident in their manual review process involving 37,000 wine experts, ensuring precise recommendations and simplifying the wine selection process for consumers. Angel Vossough is the CEO and Co-Founder of BetterAI, a Silicon Valley-based AI service provider headquartered in Silicon Valley. The company is uniquely leveraging advanced AI technologies such as Machine Learning, Generative AI, Natural Language Processing, and Computer Vision to create this transformative solution that is revolutionizing the relationship between wine and digital platforms. She is also Co-Founder & Managing Partner at Caspian Capital, an early-stage investment firm focusing on deep tech, biotech, and AI; and was Co- Founder of OpenCovidScreen, a non-profit focused on driving innovation in low-cost, accessible COVID-19 testing. In her role as BetterAI CEO, and with a strategic focus on VinoVoss as one of its primary products, Angel oversees the direction and growth of the company's innovative AI applications in the wine industry. This includes setting the overall strategic direction for BetterAI and VinoVoss; ensuring company objectives align with market needs and her company's vision; building and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders, partners, and investors to support and advance BetterAI's business goals; and ensuring the alignment of VinoVoss's development with BetterAI's broader technological advancements and business strategy. Connect with Angel: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vossough/ Website: http://www.vinovoss.com Website: https://www.betterai.io Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

273 Scale Profits and Win Back Time By Training Teams to Lead with Christian Muntean, Founder at Vantage Consulting; Anchorage, AK, USA If you want different organizational results, tap into a different kind of leadership guru. For this episode, we headed north to Alaska to meet with Christian Muntean, a distinguished authority in leadership training helping CEOs drive improved financial results and business outcomes via improved team dynamics and organizational performance. Recently, he bundled In his book, "Train to Lead," a structured, 90-day path to enhance leadership capabilities. What we value about Christian is not only his immense wealth of knowledge but his down-to-earth approach and delivery. This may be because his early career path is rooted in disaster relief and working with community leaders and non-profits in areas in Russia, Mexico, Guatamala, Panama, the Kingdom of Swaziland, Kenya, South Sudan, and Indonesia. Through his firm, Vantage Consulting, he collaborates with clients across diverse sectors to deliver leadership training that emphasizes personal habits, self-management, and core leadership strengths. Highlights of our conversation: - A smart CEO invests in leadership training at multiple levels. - This training is crucial for preparing individuals for executive roles and developing leaders at all levels within an organization. - Leaders often struggle with transitioning to executive roles and managing the associated stress. If they struggle, your business struggles. - Self-development and personal habits play a significant role in effective leadership. - Self-care is essential for leaders to maintain health, resilience, and the ability to bounce back from challenges. - Creating a conducive space for success involves being your own best boss, prioritizing self-development, balance, and joy in life. Christian Muntean is an advisor to owners, executives, and boards. As the founder of Vantage Consulting, Christian has empowered owners and executives of small and medium-sized businesses to boost their top-line revenues by over $500 million. Even more valuable, they've achieved this while expanding their bottom-line margins and reclaiming precious time for their loved ones and passions. Christian's most recent book, "Train to Lead," is a tested and proven 90-day leadership development guide built on athletic training principles. Christian's clients have included Fortune 500 firms like BP and Conoco Phillips; government entities such as the US Coast Guard and the Alaska State Legislature; large privately held and Alaska Native-owned companies such as Northern Air Cargo and NANA Development; and a variety of other industries. Connect with : LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christianmuntean/ Website: https://www.christianmuntean.com/ Email: christian@vantageconsulting.org Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

272 Better Systems, Better Trucking, Happy Drivers - How aifleet is Humanizing and Enhancing Ground Freight Movement with Marc El Khoury, Co-Founder and CEO of aiflee, Austin, Texas, USA Marc El Khoury, the visionary founder of aifleet, is transforming the trucking industry with a focus on enhanced driver utilization and technological innovation. With roots in management consulting and a discovered passion for trucking, Marc has steered airfleet to an impressive annual growth rate of 75% to 100%.  The trucking industry is highly fragmented and working conditions are often unfavorable to drivers. Did you know that: There are over 500,000 trucking companies in the US. The average trucking company has four trucks. 90 percent of trucking companies have under 10 trucks. The largest trucking company has about 1 percent market share. Marc's strategic direction emphasizes investment in technology to improve scalability and efficiency, a vision further empowered by a successful Series B funding round. This financial milestone has bolstered aifleet technological advancements and reinforced its reputation as a top workplace, where office employees and drivers find meaningful engagement and growth opportunities. Highlights of our conversation: - Marc's commitment to elevating the trucking industry through the strategic use of technology and optimization to provide customers with efficient and dependable freight services and ensure more consistent income for drivers. - The importance of building a driver centric company and why aifleet drivers are full time employees. - Leveraging AI and automation, aifleet seeks to eradicate biases in load assignments and ensure equitable treatment for all drivers.  - aifleet places a strong emphasis on sustainability by actively working towards reducing emissions and enabling drivers to cover more miles in a highly efficient manner. - The company has demonstrated substantial growth, achieving impressive annual increases in revenue and successfully completing a Series B fundraising round. - Recognizing the significance of cultural fit, aifleet prioritizes hiring individuals who align with the company's mission, fostering a cohesive workplace culture essential for long-term success. Marc El Khoury is the CEO and co-founder of aifleet, a tech-driven trucking company. Powered by our proprietary ai technology, we optimize plans for higher revenue so we can optimize the experience for our hard-working drivers and rebuild the industry to benefit people, the planet, and our economy. Prior to aifleet, Marc served as Chief Strategy Officer at US Xpress, and Principal at Kearney, a management consulting firm. He holds an MBA from NYU Stern, a MS in Engineering from UC Berkeley, and a Bachelors of Engineering from the American University of Beirut. Connect with Marc: Website: https://aifleet.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-el-khoury-a59b111/  Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/  Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/  Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO   #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

271 Fractional Real Estate Ownership Opens New Doors with Duncan Kreeger, CEO and Founder of TAB; London, England, UK Duncan Kreeger, the visionary founder and CEO of TAB, is on a mission to democratize real estate investment by making it more accessible and liquid for a broader audience. Drawing from two decades of experience in the property market, Duncan seeks to revolutionize traditional investment methods, which he views as risky and limiting, by offering fractional ownership opportunities that spread risk and allow more people to participate. Under his leadership, TAB enables individuals to invest in high-value properties with minimal capital, while also handling management responsibilities to provide a hassle-free investment experience. By leveraging technology and real-time information, Duncan is committed to educating potential investors and continually evolving his platform to open up real estate opportunities to a wider audience. Highlights of our conversation: - TAB facilitates fractional ownership in real estate investments for as little as £1,000, enhancing accessibility to a broader range of investors. - Investors utilizing TAB can effectively diversify their portfolios across multiple properties to mitigate risk and enhance accessibility to real estate investments. - Duncan underscores the significance of a robust team structure within TAB to effectively address competitive demands and propel business growth. - The core mission of TAB is to democratize real estate investments through technological innovation and streamlined investment processes. Duncan Kreeger is a leading figure in the world of property finance. With a career spanning over two decades, Duncan has built and sold West One Loans, now part of the ENRA Group, which recently sold for 350m GBP. He has successfully managed over 500m GBP of private capital. His expertise extends to completing secured loans worth an impressive 2.5bn GBP. In 2018, Duncan founded TAB, a pioneering property finance and investment firm that revolutionises the industry by offering accessible opportunities to investors through the TAB Market. With a commitment to trust, transparency, and simplicity, Duncan Kreeger is reshaping the way people invest in real estate. Connect with Duncan: Website: https://tabhq.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/duncan-kreeger-0395a45/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

270 Leveraging Human Interaction for Authentic CEO Branding with Raoul Davis, CEO of Ascendant Group; Newark, DE, USA Raoul Davis, the CEO of Ascendant Group, is a pioneering advocate for the institutionalization of CEO branding, emphasizing its critical role in building trust and authentic connections. He advocates for executives to actively manage their personal brands, ensuring alignment with their company's ethos to enhance long-term market presence. Raoul underscores the importance of humanizing businesses through executive branding, leveraging platforms like LinkedIn and strategic partnerships to weave personal narratives that resonate globally, respecting cultural nuances. By championing CEO branding, Raoul positions leaders as chief storytellers who, by sharing their stories and values, can not only enhance market trust but also inspire others by demonstrating authentic leadership. Highlights of our conversation: - CEO branding is essential for building trust and authenticity by positioning CEOs as the chief storytellers of their businesses, emphasizing human interaction over products or logos. - Highlighting the power of human connection in branding, CEOs can set their companies apart in a competitive market and establish deeper connections with consumers by sharing personal stories and values. - Emphasizing the importance of showcasing the human side of CEOs, positioning them as industry leaders and fostering organic relationships with their target audience. - Amplifying a CEO's strengths and aligning their personal brand with the company's values can enhance shareholder perception, marketplace trust, and establish them as industry thought leaders. Raoul Davis is CEO of the Ascendant Group, an award winning, global leader in CEO branding firm. PR News top 100 ranked elite agency, #1 ranked minority owned PR firm celebrating 20 years working with CEOs and executives of leading businesses in the world. Ascendant offers one of the most integrated agency models in the world including brand strategy, PR, literary representation, design, social media, video, photography, and strategic relationships. Clients include Fortune 500 executives, INC 5000 CEOs, Venture Capitalists, high performing entrepreneur brands, and bestselling self-help Authors looking to amplify their reach. Davis regularly writes content for Forbes and Entrepreneur and has been invited to small business summits at the White House, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and the U.S. Senate. He is the author of the book Firestarters: How innovators, initiators and instigators can inspire you to ignite your own life. Connect with Raoul: Website: https://www.ascendantgroupbranding.com/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cam Doody knows what it takes to move an early-stage start-up through product fit, function, and successful launch as he has honed in on creating the right environment and formula for success. As co-founder and general partner of Brickyard, a venture capital firm based in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Cam and his team specialize in supporting early-stage tech startups and have built a reputation so strong that they are expecting possibly up to 10,000 pitch decks of founders hoping to enter their program. Cam's philosophy is all about radical focus, grit, and fostering an ecosystem where founders can thrive in the most challenging stages of their journey. His commitment to family and the quality of life in Chattanooga underlines his focus on what truly matters, both professionally and personally, as he strives to back companies that will redefine their sectors and become household names. Here are some highlights: - Cam talks about how his experience scaling Bellhops into a national moving company helped fuel his transition into venture capital, leading to the founding of Brickyard. - Brickyard's unique model requires founders to relocate to Chattanooga, where they spend up to two years in an environment designed for relentless focus on growth and achieving product-market fit. - Cam shares what he looks for in founders—those who understand the long, difficult path of building a company and are willing to make significant sacrifices, including moving to a less tech-dense location. - Brickyard fosters a supportive community of founders, all in the same critical phase of their startup journey, which helps combat the loneliness and stress of building a high-growth company. - Cam outlines his vision for Brickyard to become one of the most exclusive and successful pre-seed and seed-stage investment programs, backing category-defining companies that harness the power of AI and the internet. Cam Doody is the co-founder and general partner of Brickyard, a Chattanooga- based venture capital firm that helps early-stage startup founders get Series A funding. An Auburn University's Harbert College of Business graduate, Cam is no stranger to entrepreneurship and taking risks. In 2011, Cam co-founded another company, Bellhop. Originating in his college dorm room, Bellhop rose to national prominence with $56 million in equity capital. Today, the company has raised over $90m in venture capital and expanded to serve state-wide and long-distance moves in more than 65 cities. Connect with Cam: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cam-doody-b489a124/ Website: https://www.justlaybrick.com/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rohit Bhargava is a person you should know and follow. He is a pioneering thinker renowned for his expertise in non obvious thinking, a philosophy he champions through his speaking, consulting and body of work. We invited Rohit to tell us about his new book, Non Obvious Thinking: How to See What Others Miss. Rohit believes in the necessity of non obvious thinkers to drive innovation and disrupt conventional business paradigms, a vision he communicates through books, podcasts, and newsletters. He also carried this through by founding Ideapress Publishing so that he could help lift up the work of other great thinkers. He firmly believes that everyone can build the skill of seeing what others miss. Highlights of our conversation: - Why encouraging individuals to embrace non obvious thinking and recognize its value in uncovering insights and generating creative ideas will help businesses thrive in the future. - A CEO must see fostering an innovative mindset as an imperative in all team members and not just a specific innovation team. - That non obvious thinking can be learned, which is why he has written his latest book. - A tenant of non obvious thinking emphasizes the importance of supporting female leaders for opportunities in business to lend to diversity and inclusivity in innovative thought processes. - Rohit is passionate about promoting innovative thinking through various platforms like podcasts, book awards, newsletters, and speaking engagements and all CEOs and business leaders need to recognize that they can also elevate their thoughts and voice in the same way. - The Non Obvious Book Awards were established to honor outstanding nonfiction and business books, promoting insightful literature and unique perspectives. Rohit Bhargava is on a mission to inspire more non-obvious thinking in the world. He is a 3-time Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author of ten books and is widely considered one of the most entertaining and original speakers on trends, innovation, and marketing in the world. Rohit has been invited to deliver “non-boring” keynotes and workshops in 32 countries around the world to change the way teams and leaders think at the World Bank, NASA, Intel, LinkedIn, MetLife, Under Armour, Univision, Disney, and hundreds of other well-known organizations. Rohit's body of work, including his bestselling trend reports, aims to inspire individuals and organizations to think creatively, cover blind spots, and foster a culture of curiosity and risk-taking. To further amplify his message, he established the Non Obvious Book Awards, recognizing exceptional nonfiction and business literature, and continues to advocate for diversity and innovative thinking as catalysts for progress. Prior to becoming an entrepreneur and founding the Non-Obvious Company and Ideapress Publishing, he spent 15 years leading marketing strategy at Ogilvy and Leo Burnett where he advised global brands on human behavior, marketing, and storytelling. Connect with Rohit: Website: https://nonobvious.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rohitbhargava/ Amazon author page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Rohit-Bhargava/author/B001JRWL64?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1728051894&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Every day CEOs and senior leaders are faced with a tsunami of information and requests so we invited Nuala Walsh, leadership expert and author of Tune In: How to Make Smarter Decisions in a Noisy World to share her esteemed insights. With her distinguished 30-year career in financial services and as the founder of Mind Equity Consulting, Nuala brings a profound understanding of human behavior to the forefront of business decision-making. In a world rife with data overload and disinformation, Nuala underscores the necessity of a nuanced approach to decision-making, promoting strategies like the SONIC mnemonic to combat cognitive biases and enhance organizational performance. Nuala advocates for leaders to be vigilant of default biases and overconfidence, stressing the importance of self-awareness and seeking external perspectives to avoid negative consequences. Highlights of our conversation: - Human decision risk is a crucial factor in leadership decisions due to data overload, disinformation, distraction, and filtering out irrelevant voices. - Default bias leads humans to trust people similar to them, potentially resulting in errors in decision-making. - Avoiding bad news and over-trusting can lead to detrimental decisions, highlighting the importance of critically evaluating information. - Social comparison and bandwagon effects can lead to feelings of inadequacy when comparing achievements to others. - Behavioral Analysis in Business emphasizes the need to refrain from hasty conclusions and understand the complexities of decision-making processes. Nuala Walsh is a non-executive director, adjunct professor of behavioral science in Trinity College Dublin, CEO at MindEquity Consulting, and author of the award-winning TUNE IN: How to Make Smarter Decisions In A Noisy World. With a three-decade career in global investment management at BlackRock, Merrill Lynch and Standard Life Aberdeen, latterly as Chief Marketing Officer, she has been recognized among the 100 Most Influential Women in Finance Her board and advisory appointments span business, sport and non-profit organizations including UN Women (UK), the British & Irish Lions, World Athletics, The FA, the Innocence Project London, and President of the Harvard Club of Ireland. A TEDx speaker and visiting fellow at the London School of Economics, her insights feature in Forbes, Harvard Business Review, Psychology Today, the Financial Times, Inc, the Economist, BBC, CNBC and Fox Business. Connect with Nuala: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nualagwalsh/ Writing website: https://www.nualagwalsh.com/ Consulting website: https://www.mindequity.co.uk/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

266 The Franchise Journey: Building from Few to Many with Charles J. Bonfiglio, CEO of Tint World, Boca Raton, FL, USA Charles J. Bonfiglio, a celebrated entrepreneur and founder of Tint World, has revolutionized the franchise business model with his innovative approach, earning him accolades such as the Inc. 5000 award nine times. Initially facing challenges in securing leases and loans for his business in Florida, Charles turned adversity into opportunity by embracing franchising, starting with a Meinecke discount muffler shop. He advocates for balancing consistency and quality in franchise operations while inspiring franchisees to adhere to established systems, recognizing their valuable insights.  His strategic focus on continuous learning, team-building, and robust support infrastructure has driven Tint World's expansion to over 142 stores, with plans for further growth through strategic partnerships and collaborations with major industry players like Rivian and Tesla. Highlights of our conversation: - Charles's strategic approach involved building the system, improving the brand, and assembling the right team to handle growth effectively. - Actively seeking knowledge through books, podcasts, and audiobooks is vital for enhancing business acumen and adapting to changing circumstances. - Charles highlights the value of continuous learning from various experiences and individuals in the franchise business. - Finding the right fit and cultivating a loyal team aligned with the company's values are essential for managing growth in a franchise business. - Forming strategic partnerships, expanding capabilities, and collaborating with big brands are key strategies for driving growth and enhancing services in the industry. Charles has been the CEO and president of Tint World since September 1, 2006, where he leads all aspects of the company, including franchise development, sales, and marketing. He transformed Tint World from six independently owned centers into an international franchise chain, formalizing operations and securing FTC approval for franchising in 2007. Charles also founded Auto Parts Network® in 2006 and served as CEO of Meineke Car Care Centers from 1983 to 2014. His extensive background includes founding multiple companies and managing large-scale real estate projects in New York and South Florida. Connect with Charles: Website: https://www.tintworld.com/  Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/  Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/  Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO   #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We respect the mission of Two Chairs because we believe that human potential relies on individuals remaining mentally strong. Enter Alex Katz. He has a clear vision for company growth and expansion, deeply rooted in his personal experiences and commitment to improving mental health care. But this is not just about access, the systems are highly sophisticated to introduce the patient to the right therapist based on personalized matching factors. Alex emphasizes the importance of building a strong foundation before scaling, particularly in healthcare, where patient outcomes are critical. His approach involves investing in the right clinical culture and technology, ensuring that the company stays true to its core values of patient and clinician care while attracting aligned investors. As Two Chairs has grown to connect around 600 therapists with clients - and these are employees, not an independent network so they are verified and aligned with the brand. Alex aspires to expand the company's reach across multiple states, addressing the mental health crisis on a larger scale and making quality care accessible to more communities. Highlights of our conversation: - Two Chairs aims to expand to help more people by making it easier to find the right therapist. In fact, 98% of clients find the right therapist on the first try. - The matching algorithm used by Two Chairs considers therapist identity, clinical expertise, therapeutic style, and logistical factors to ensure patient satisfaction. - Two Chairs is proud to have diverse, multi-lingual, multicultural therapists that are direct employees. - Alex discusses the barriers to accessing therapy and mental health services across states due to licensing restrictions and discusses future changes in the health space. Currently they serve California, Florida, and Washington. - Founder support networks are crucial for navigating the challenges of leadership, as highlighted by Alex in the success of Two Chairs. Alex Katz is the Founder and CEO of Two Chairs, an innovative multi-state outpatient mental health system. Prior to founding Two Chairs, Alex led the Consumer Goods group at Palantir Technologies and served large health systems at McKinsey & Company, where he gained an appreciation for the barriers to getting great care within the existing U.S. healthcare system. He received his M.S. and B.A. from Stanford University. Connect with Alex: Website: www.twochairs.com LinkedIn: www.twochairs.com Twitter/X: https://x.com/twochairsmh Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/twochairstherapy Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Supratim Srinivasan is deeply concerned about the fragility of the electrical utilities industry, so he is doing something about it. As an engineer with a strong background in finance, he co-founded Atma Energy to make distributed energy resources like solar and energy storage more accessible to the individual homeowner and business owner while at the same time enabling them to capitalize on surplus power that they may be generating. This development of virtual power plant programs leverages and aggregates individual energy sites into a robust, utility-supportive fleet. This innovative approach enhances grid resilience, especially during natural disasters, and facilitates a transition towards a more sustainable and distributed energy model. Highlights of our conversation: - Supratim is on a mission to provide clean energy solutions, especially in vulnerable regions like Texas. - Visionary leadership and belief are crucial in tackling the problem of making solar energy more accessible even in remote areas while at the same time impacting the utility marketplace. - Natural disasters and climate change predictions highlight the need for the transition to a resilient distributed energy model. - Government regulations in the energy sector can be tough but dialogue amongst stakeholders is critical for change. - Supratim prioritizes customer experience and ethical practices - he is about helping the ‘small guy' not only benefit from sustainable power but to supply and earn income through selling their excess power. Supratim Srinivasan is paving the path to a brighter future through Atma Energy. He began his renewable energy journey while earning his Bachelor's in Engineering from St. Mary's University. During his time at St. Mary's, he designed and built a solar-powered disaster relief trailer which fueled his excitement for solar. Supratim then attended the University of Texas at San Antonio to earn a Master's in Electrical Engineering where he met co-founder Jaro, and together they researched new solar technologies. While attending graduate school, Supratim began his formal career in solar energy providing engineering and operations services to a residential and commercial solar developer. Over the last decade and a half in renewable energy, Supratim has worked his way up from engineering to leadership and CEO positions in firms that have helped bring solar energy to thousands of Texans. When Supratim is not in the office leading the solar revolution, he enjoys spending time with his 2-year-old son and his wife, whose support never wavers. Connect with Supratim: Website: https://atma-energy.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/supratim-srinivasan-8b188127/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Benjamin Ritter sees in others what they can't yet see in themselves, which is what we love about his work. So we invited Dr. Ritter to join us and discuss his book, Becoming Fearless, because we believe that everyone should feel in control of their business journey and find joy along the way. This book is a reflection of his work with CEOs, founders and senior leaders where he has helped individuals move from self-doubt to self-mastery - in fact he cites 65 ways that anyone can do this. His guidance to his clients places a strong emphasis on skill development in effective communication, performance management, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance to prevent toxic relationships and turnover. He knows that leaders who learn to tone down the fear and amp up the confidence move further faster on the quest for success. Highlights of our conversation: - To rise up one needs to break free from limiting beliefs and create a career aligned with true desires. - You must be your greatest champion and learn to take active control of your path and your time. - Great leaders understand the role leadership presence plays and they seek to fine tune this skill for their benefit. - Note only does the CEO's vision shape the culture, engagement, and success of the organization, but their level of confidence and self-mastery supports buy-in and engagement from others. - Credibility and reliability are critical - teams must ‘see' their leader as the expert and have trust in them. - Fearless leaders empower employees, support their professional growth, give them control over their careers and motivate them to contribute effectively. - Executive coaching benefits leaders by providing a safe space for personal development, working on leadership brand and vision, improving self-doubt, building positive relationships and operating in that fearless zone. Dr. Benjamin Ritter, founder of Live For Yourself (LFY) Consulting and author of Becoming Fearless is an international leadership and career coach, Sr. Talent Management Consultant, Top LinkedIn Voice, global speaker, and host of The Executive, and the Live Fearlessly Podcast. Ben has coached over 500 leaders with a strong focus on senior level executives across multiple industries and geographic regions, within organizations that varied in scale from 50 to over 250,000 employees, and have included names such as, Amazon, Coursera, Doordash, Google, Fiserv, Northwestern, Pinterest, Yelp, and more. Becoming Fearless is OUT NOW on Amazon! Get it at the link below. Connect with Ben: Website: liveforyourselfconsulting.com/becomingfearless LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbenjaminritter-leadershipdevelopment/ Instagram: instagram.com/drbenjaminritter Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Vidusha is a distinguished expert in leadership training and coaching, with over 20 years of experience in the field. As the founder of High Five Consultancy and Luminary Learning Solutions, she has made significant strides in HR consulting and leadership development, authoring over 70 books and establishing herself as a thought leader. Vidusha's perspective on leadership emphasizes that leaders should not see themselves as superhuman, but rather as individuals performing a role, where self-doubt is a healthy trait that can lead to better decision-making. In other words, be human as you lead. Highlights of our conversation: - Leaders need to be confident and selfless to grow a strong leadership pipeline. - Joy, self-awareness, and positive leadership are crucial for fostering a supportive environment for leadership development. - Self-doubt is important in decision-making to prevent toxic behavior and promote collaboration. - Understanding one's mortality and focusing on shared success are key for building a legacy of successful leadership. - Investing in mentoring and coaching future leaders is essential for sustainable leadership excellence. Vidusha is a valued individual in my personal network and I hope you add him to yours as well. Vidusha is an HR Consultant and Leadership Trainer based out of Sri Lanka. For over two decades, Vidusha has conducted training and consulting assignments across 15 countries in person, with participants from over 30 countries online. His work in creating a framework to assess validated ROI after training was one of the first frameworks around linking Leadership Training and ROI, and won him a place on the TedX Colombo stage. Vidusha has won many recognitions over the years for his pioneering work in the Leadership space, including being the only Sri Lankan to be in the Top 50 Leadership Thought Leaders in Global Gurus, as well as being identified as one of the Top 30 Global Thought Leaders in Management and Leadership by Thinkers Vidusha has over 70 self published books - all of which are available for free (honouring a commitment he made to his father not to ‘sell' books he writes) on www.booksbyv.com. This is the same reason all proceeds from this book too will go directly to charity Connect with Vidusha: Website: https://luminarylearningsolutions.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vidushanathavitharana/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alex French, the co-founder and CEO of Bizzy Cold Brew, has steered his company from the remnants of a failed snow sports venture to a thriving brand known for its exceptional 48-ounce cold brew coffees. With his extensive background in marketing at Best Buy and General Mills, Alex has channeled his expertise into creating a product that stands out for its high quality, significant caffeine content, and affordability. He underscores the meticulous effort invested in crafting the perfect cold brew coffee, overcoming numerous challenges, and targeting a niche market within the food and beverage sector. Alex takes immense pride in the brand's growth, now available in 8,000 stores, and relishes the sight of strangers enjoying his product, validating its value and impact in their daily lives. Highlights of our conversation: - Bizzy Cold Brew was founded to cater to the demand for ready-to-drink beverages, recognizing the popularity of cold brew coffee and the inefficiencies of making it at home. - Leveraging his background in engineering, marketing, and data analysis, Alex created a product that catered to the market need for convenient, affordable, and energy-boosting beverages. - Bizzy Cold Brew's commitment to sustainability, organic ingredients, and recycling materials has positioned the brand as a top player in the competitive cold brew market, resonating with environmentally conscious consumers. - The company's exploration of innovative ways to upcycle spent coffee grounds, such as converting them into biochar for concrete, showcases their dedication to sustainability and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. - The fulfillment and joy experienced by the founder in seeing employees well-compensated, strangers buying the product, and customers benefiting from the functional beverage highlight the positive impact Bizzy Cold Brew has on individuals' lives. Alex is an innovative thought leader, early adopter, and disruptor in all things consumer brands. Where others see challenges and hardships, Alex sees an opportunity to innovate, disrupt, and accelerate new ideas. With passions and expertise in health and wellness, food and beverage, technology, and the millennial consumer, Alex has had the opportunity to consult, lead teams, and launch businesses within the food and beverage industries. Alex currently acts as CEO of Get Bizzy Inc., a beverage company whose mission is to be the best by providing the highest quality and most convenient beverages on the market. When not working on his business, Alex spends his time mentoring college students and training for ultra-endurance races. Connect with Alex: Website: https://bizzycoldbrew.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bizzycoldbrew/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexjfrench/ Socials @bizzycoldbrew Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ed Birchall, the founder of Sobirho, brings a wealth of experience from his professional rugby career and roles in finance and technology to revolutionize fan engagement in the sports industry. He passionately believes that Sobirho's data-driven AI technology is crucial for delivering hyper-personalized interactions and maximizing revenues. I met Ed while I was speaking at SEICon (Sports, Entertainment and Innovation Conference) and was impressed not only by his ease and knowledge of intelligently using data to drive financial performance but his passion for keeping minor league sporting teams from soccer and cricket to baseball and football alive and relevant in their communities. He emphasizes that understanding fan behavior and preferences is key to driving revenue and fostering deeper connections between teams and their towns. Highlights of our conversation noted: - Sobirho's start-up story and why it is a personal mission. - Why a focus on hyper-personalized fan and player engagement is critical for the livelihood of a team. - How teams can increase revenue harnessing data-driven AI technology. - How Sobirho aims to empower disadvantaged individuals in the data-driven AI industry, particularly women in technology. - The importance of bridging the gap between big-budget teams and grassroots organizations. - How Ed envisions Sobirho as the future on-ramp for helping sports teams manage data, organization, and operations with cutting-edge technology and innovations. Ed Birchall, is a former professional rugby player and the visionary CEO of the Sporttech firm Sobirho. Ed leads this London-based AI startup with the goal to transform the sports industry by offering hyper-personalized experiences for fans, athletes, and sponsors, while improving operational efficiencies and profits worldwide. Leveraging his background in financial services and roles at leading tech companies, Ed's expertise in process improvement and technology utilization helped generate substantial revenue, including a $150 million increase at CAPCO financial services. Inspired by his athletic experience and belief in AI's transformative power, Ed founded Sobirho to optimize sports engagements through real-time analytics and personalized content, enhancing user engagement and athletic performance. Under his leadership, Sobirho has become a pioneering force in the Sportech industry, delivering innovative solutions that redefine the sports ecosystem and cementing Ed's reputation as a tech innovator across finance, sport, and manufacturing sectors. Connect with Ed: Website: https://www.sobirho.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edbirchall/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jose Pereira, a renowned leader and former CEO of Citgo Petroleum, exemplifies resilience and leadership, especially highlighted through his harrowing experience as one of the Citgo Six who were wrongfully detained and held hostage by the Venezuelan government from 2017 to 2022. During his unjust imprisonment, Pereira's perspective on resilience evolved profoundly, leading him to become a motivational speaker and author. He also is now a champion for raising awareness on kidnapping and hostage situations not only for the business person, but for their family members who are with them. In his book From Hero to Villain: True Story of the Citgo Six and through his program "Life Pills for a Surviving Guide," he emphasizes the necessity of prioritizing physical and mental health to navigate challenges effectively. Pereira advocates for raising awareness about critical issues and sharing personal experiences, believing these actions can inspire others on their journeys towards resilience and effective leadership. We loved getting to know Jose and hearing his story. Highlights included: - Resilience is crucial in leadership positions, as highlighted by Jose Pereira's experience as a former CEO and hostage survivor. - Kidnapping insurance is important for employee safety, but there is a gap in coverage for protecting employees' families in hostage situations. - Accepting one's new reality is essential when facing unexpected challenges because the faster you can accept that a situation has changed the faster you can forge a path for the next steps. - Finding purpose and meaning in suffering can help individuals overcome hardship and access inner strength. - His work to bring back other individuals who are political hostages wrongfully detained through the Bring Our Families Home Campaign. - Today, Jose enjoys working with CEOs and sharing his story from the stage. Jose Pereira, is a former oil company executive with thirty-five years of experience and the former CEO of Citgo Petroleum, endured 1,775 days of unjust captivity in Venezuela as part of the CITGO6, a group of six Americans employed by Citgo. His wrongful detention, solely based on his American nationality, lasted from November 21, 2017, to October 1, 2022. Jose walks the walk and talks the talk as a true survivor. He implemented his unique Leadership and Resilience coaching technique to survive his 5 years of captivity, where he discovered that everyone has an inner force inside. He will make you unleash your unbreakable spirit to convert you into a Great Leader in your Business and in your life. Pereira's memoir offers a gripping account of the events leading to and during the CITGO6 imprisonment. He and his wife engaged in a daring act of smuggling letters to each other, reminiscent of Anne Frank's bravery during the Nazi regime, providing vital inspiration for his book. Their determination under duress adds depth to Pereira's narrative, transporting readers to his grim cell and eventual joy upon learning of his impending release. Connect with Jose: Website: https://joseconnect.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jose-angel-pereira/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Who doesn't want their teams to be agile and shoot for success? Well, enter Gerald Leonard, a seasoned expert in project, program, and portfolio management who passionately shares his insights on productivity smarts and wisdom. In addition to the Leonard Productivity Intelligence Institute, he is also the CEO of Turnberry Premiere. Gerald believes that effective productivity is not just about managing time, but about prioritizing daily actions and moving steadily toward well-defined goals while relishing the journey. He advocates for the importance of setting goals and managing priorities, emphasizing that this approach leads to both personal fulfillment and professional success. And if you are lucky, you may hear him play some bass guitar for you as well. Listen to our conversation and gain some advice that will be music to your ears: - Setting goals and enjoying the journey are key to productivity and wisdom for every individual. - Culture and leadership in business play a crucial role in success, emphasizing shared vision, values, and execution cadence. - CEOs face various challenges including stress, burnout, and strategic alignment, highlighting the importance of the human factor in decision-making. - Managing priorities effectively and finding joy in the journey towards goals are essential for achieving success and fulfillment. - Reading books like 'The Goal' and 'Grit' can enhance personal and professional development. Gerald Leonard offers a unique productivity approach to accomplishing more every day. Gerald J. Leonard PMP, PfMP, and a C-IQ Coach; he's the Publishing Editor, CEO, and Founder of the Leonard Productivity Intelligence Institute, as well as the CEO of Turnberry Premiere, a strategic project portfolio management and IT governance firm based in Washington, DC. Gerald is also an Author, TEDx Speaker, Management guru, and, importantly, a Bass player. He brings all these traits and skills into his presentations and interviews. Gerald is the author of A Symphony of Choices (A Business Parable), Culture Is The Bass, Workplace Jazz, and the upcoming book Productivity Smarts. Through his podcasts, writings, and collaborations with high-profile clients, Leonard underscores the value of personal growth and giving back, ultimately creating impactful business value and enriching lives. Connect with Gerald: Website: https://productivityintelligenceinstitute.com/ Website: https://turnberrypremiere.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geraldjleonard Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rick embarked on an unexpected founder's journey to Vietnam that ultimately led to remarkable success. Initially hesitant about moving to Ho Chi Minh City, Rick embraced the opportunity, which catalyzed the founding of TRG International, now serving clients in 80 countries. His experience underscores the importance of adaptability and proactive decision-making, especially in navigating the challenges and uncertainties of a dynamic business landscape. Through his journey, Rick champions resilience, continuous learning, and the power of seizing new opportunities, encouraging others to shape their own paths and legacies. Some key takeaways from our conversation: - Embracing new opportunities can lead to unexpected and fulfilling outcomes in business. - Resilience is key in navigating through disruptive times and evolving industries. - Continuous self-learning and growth are important for both individuals and teams. - Being a lifelong learner is essential to staying relevant in rapidly changing business landscapes. - Public speaking engagements can be significant milestones in showcasing expertise and thought leadership. Rick is a true master of the business coaching craft. His proven track record of helping companies and individuals achieve unprecedented levels of success is a testament to his unparalleled ability to combine business experience with coaching interventions. Through systematic processes and unwavering commitment to employee empowerment, Rick translates vision into actionable steps that propel his clients forward towards their goals and milestones. As a serial entrepreneur with a knack for scaling businesses in multiple industries, Rick has achieved repeated success and created a multimillion-dollar company servicing clients in 80 countries, including half of the top 20 hotel chains and several Fortune 500 businesses. His diverse background includes stints as an executive coach, entrepreneur, techie, baby boomer, and professional bean counter (earning him the prestigious FCMA CGMA FCPA designation). With over 40 years of experience spanning supermarkets, accounting, breweries, newsagents, defense manufacturing, IT, talent, F&B, property development, and BP, Rick is a true veteran of the business world. Connect with Rick: Website: https://www.trginternational.com/ Website: https://www.rickyvanovich.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickyvanovich/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pat Lynes has been consistently at the forefront of business evolutions impacting teams and human capital management. Lynes has utilized his experience as a senior figure in the UK recruitment sector to challenge the dominance of large consulting firms and inspire the future of work by founding Sullivan & Stanley (S&S). We spoke with Lynes on his entrepreneurial journey, how managers today should nurture teams differently, and why he believes that senior leaders need to better position themselves for a future where they control their options related to work. Some key takeaways from our conversation: - Executives are encouraged to explore freelance roles, step out of their comfort zones, and embrace opportunities in the freelance world. - This is why he wrote The Disruptive Executive book which offers a practical roadmap for executives to transition to a plural portfolio executive arrangement. - He believes that practicing gratitude can significantly impact one's outlook on life, leading to a more fulfilling and balanced life. - He urges business leaders to implement programs focused on health and wellness, as well as strategies to position employees for success citing that this is crucial for team development and collective growth. - Entrepreneurship is a team effort that requires prioritizing employee development and well-being for enhanced engagement and performance. Pat Lynes is an award-winning entrepreneur and Founder of Sullivan & Stanley (S&S), a change consultancy that helps organizations bridge the gap between investment and value realization. Before founding S&S, Pat worked in the IT and change knowledge worker recruitment game for over 15 years, being recognized as Global Interim Recruiter of the Year in 2015. He has delivered over 100 transformation teams for organizations including Three Mobile, Shell Energy, Burberry, and WH Smith. Pat was a pioneer of the executive gig economy well before “The Great Resignation”, and he shares his experience and expertise in the best-selling book, The Interim Revolution which helps anyone wanting to work in a dramatically different way, as a disrupted executive. His latest book, The Disrupted Executive, is a sequel that provides a practical guide for executives who want to take control of their careers and work on their terms. Connect with Pat: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricklynes/ Website: https://www.sullivanstanley.com/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Sampogna is a forward-thinking leader recognized for his creative impact in the advertising industry. His perspective on paid media strategies is rooted in a comprehensive understanding of the full customer journey, encompassing all touchpoints and platforms. He advocates for innovative media placements and encourages brands to diversify beyond traditional outlets like Meta and Google. What we enjoy about Wondersauce, is that John believes in the importance of returning to the art of marketing, urging brands to create engaging and fun content that attracts organic interest, much like the early successes of direct-to-consumer brands such as Dollar Shave Club and Casper. He also thinks there is a place where art and advertising can beautifully intersect. Through our conversation, John explains: - The inception of Wondersauce including how it got its name and progressed from a small independent venture established in 2011 to an expansive team doing remarkable client projects.  - The importance of dissecting and intimately knowing the full customer journey for brands to effectively diversify their strategies. - How curiosity plays a significant role in fostering successful client relationships and tailoring marketing strategies to meet customer needs. - Why brands should be open to investigating independent podcasts as a marketing platform. Podcasts can be an effective paid media strategy that allows for personalized advertising with host-led readouts resulting in higher engagement rates. - The payoff when innovative approaches are embraced in client campaigns such as utilizing memorable artwork or adding unique humor. - How the core values of integrity, curiosity, and communication lead the way to building strong relationships with clients and fostering creativity within the agency. John Sampogna is the Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder of Wondersauce, an agency specializing in brand storytelling, paid media, e-commerce, and digital experiences. With over 15 years of experience in digital marketing and advertising, Sampogna has created and led work for a wide range of clients such as L'Oréal, Scott's, Brookfield, Golf.com, and Subway, amongst many others. Featured early in his career in Business Insider's “30 Most Creative People In Advertising Under 30”, Sampgona's insights have been featured in numerous media outlets, including Glossy, Adweek, CNBC, Medium, Yahoo, and Digiday. Today, he manages a team of over 75 creatives, strategists, producers, and technologists at Wondersauce, and is well-regarded industry-wide for his innovative approach toward digital marketing and brand storytelling. Connect with John: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnsampogna/  Website: https://www.wondersauce.com/  Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/  Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/  Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO   #CEO #brand #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

254 Transforming Logistics by Engaging People Who Make Movement Happen with Todd Haselhorst, CEO & Founder of HEALE Labs, Miami, FL USA We love innovative companies seeking to elevate the participation of all people working in the supply chain; that is just what HEALE Labs is doing. With a deep-rooted passion for logistics, Todd Haselhorst has dedicated his career to revolutionizing the transportation industry. His innovative approach, fueled by knowledge gained in economics, game theory, and technology, has led him to found HEALE Labs. HEALE Labs tackles the $268 billion data coordination problem in logistics by leveraging open and decentralized networks. His perspective highlights the importance of timely solutions to optimize the middle mile of the shipping process and address the challenges of errors, fraud, and waste in the industry. But on a simplistic level, his approach demonstrates value in each critical stage of the transportation and delivery ecosystem. Here are some highlights from our chat: - Creating an open data infrastructure to connect systems and establish a master record can streamline coordination and reduce costs. - Incentivizing accurate data collection by workers and drivers through a reward system can minimize errors, theft, and waste, ultimately increasing profits. - Data Coordination in Logistics is crucial for solving data and shipment coordination issues by creating a master record with real-time information. - Using tokens as incentives for accurate data input and timely payments enhances the logistics process for shippers, brokers, carriers, and drivers. Todd Haselhorst is a serial entrepreneur and the CEO/Founder of logistics startup HEALE Labs. Born in Hays, Kansas, to an entrepreneurial family, he started his first business at 12 (a lawn and landscaping operation) and hasn't looked back. As an adult, Todd has built and exited several successful businesses including Auto Transport Plus (sold to NYSE-KAR) and CubeMonk, a transportation and labor marketplace for the logistics industry (sold to Cend). With HEALE, Todd created the first open architecture, a zero-trust blockchain protocol designed to make the shipment lifecycle more predictable, profitable, and sustainable. HEALE's tech stack reduces fraud, waste, and theft, making the lives of shippers, brokers, carriers, and drivers easier. Connect with Todd: Website: https://healelabs.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/0xtoddguru/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO #CEO #Transportation #shipping #blockchain #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's environment, innovation is recognized as a critical business practice, but do companies encourage innovation to the fullest? Do business leaders feel secure in allowing ideas to grow and potentially sprout into a completely new organization? In this episode, Dr. Andre LePlume shares insights from his extensive research on spinout ventures explaining how companies can benefit from encouraging employees to form internal corporate ventures and pursue innovative ideas. Based on his book, Spinout-Ventures-Transitioning-Employees-Entrepreneurs, he also expresses his view that the best new companies aren't founded in garages, but rather come from a place of keen knowledge and understanding of the needs in a market. Episode Highlights: - Defining Spinout Ventures: Spinouts are created using knowledge and resources transferred from a parent organization. They can ultimately benefit the company even if the spinout founder creates a new company as it may offer needed services. - Encouraging Innovation: Andre points out the need for businesses to create an innovative culture, allowing employees the freedom to explore and develop new ideas internally and externally. - Success in Spinouts - These founders typically have greater experience, are more knowledgeable, and have positive support systems compared to other founders. - Case Study - Zoom: Zoom emerged as a successful spinout from Cisco, highlighting the potential of spinouts to revolutionize industries. - Navigating Legal Challenges: He notes the evolving legal landscape around non-competes and intellectual property, and how businesses can manage these issues to encourage spinouts. - Recommended Reading: "The Innovator's Dilemma" by Clayton Christensen; "Crossing the Chasm" by Geoffrey Moore; and "Zero to One" by Peter Thiel. Dr. Andre Laplume is a co-author of Spinout-Ventures-Transitioning-Employees-Entrepreneurs. Andre is a Full Professor in Entrepreneurship and Strategy at the Ted Rogers School of Management, which is part of Toronto Metropolitan University. Laplume researches the intersections where new entrants and incumbent firms meet to break down the barriers facing entrepreneurs while helping managers deal with entrepreneurial ambitions in their organizations. His research has appeared in top journals like Human Relations, Journal of International Business Studies, and Journal of Business Research, among others. He received his PhD in Management from the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg, and spent seven years at Michigan Tech, teaching in its MBA program. Earlier, Laplume was a business and information technology consultant, helping clients integrate businesses and automate units. He is a frequent judge at entrepreneurship pitch competitions and an experienced entrepreneur, having launched a startup while in Michigan. Connect with Andre: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andre-laplume-90639433/ Book: Spinout Ventures: Transitioning Employees Entrepreneurs can be found on Amazon Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO #spinout #innovation #CEO #AI #Tech #Enterprise #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Charles Fisher is a pioneering figure in the application of artificial intelligence to medicine and healthcare. With a PhD in biophysics from Harvard and a robust background in machine learning research, Fisher believes that AI has the potential to revolutionize medicine by addressing complex challenges and he does with the handpicked team he has assembled at Unlearn.ai. He highlights the rapid advancement of AI technologies, while also acknowledging that the current systems are not yet all-encompassing but improve annually. Fisher emphasizes that high-quality medical datasets are crucial for training effective AI models and views the creation of large datasets as essential for unlocking significant improvements in healthcare. Here are some highlights are from our chat: - AI advancements in medicine are underhyped, with rapid progress driven by machine learning technologies, better computers, and data accumulation. - The medical field lags behind consumer applications in AI due to the need for comprehensive medical datasets for training models effectively. - Digital twins in healthcare are used to create virtual replicas of patients, improving outcomes and personalizing treatments. - AI technology can predict outcomes in clinical trials, reducing the need for placebos and making studies more efficient and aligned with patient needs. - AI has the potential to accelerate medical research, reduce drug development costs, and lead to significant improvements in solving medical problems within the next 5-10 years. Charles Fisher is the CEO and co-founder of Unlearn.ai Charles is a scientist with interests at the intersection of physics, machine learning, and computational biology. Previously, he worked as a machine learning engineer at Leap Motion and a computational biologist at Pfizer. He was a Philippe Meyer Fellow in theoretical physics at École Normale Supérieure in Paris, France, and a postdoctoral scientist in biophysics at Boston University. Charles holds a Ph.D. in biophysics from Harvard University and a B.S. in biophysics from the University of Michigan. Connect with Charles: Website: https://www.unlearn.ai/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charleskfisher/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO #CEO #AI #Tech #Enterprise #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eric Vaughan is a pioneering leader in the realm of AI-first transformations, advocating for the urgent adaptation to Generative AI. At the Imagine AI conference,Eric emphasized that this shift is not only essential but crucial for maintaining competitiveness in today's rapidly evolving technological landscape. In this episode, Eric explains how he completely reimagined the structure, talents and thinking needed to prepare Ignite Tech and GFI Software to be stand out category leaders in the future. He draws parallels between this transformative trend and past revolutions like the Internet and iPhones, underscoring the necessity for businesses to foster a culture of AI-first thinking. Here are some highlights are from our chat: - Gen AI is the fifth trend that has changed the world, following the Internet, personal computers, the web, and the iPhone. - CEOs play a crucial role in leading AI initiatives and championing AI within their organizations. - Eric's hands-on leadership includes personally interviewing AI innovation specialists, ensuring they share his vision of integrating AI into all facets of the organization to drive efficiency and innovation. - Businesses need to adapt by integrating AI into various aspects of the company to stay ahead of the curve. - Transforming companies into AI-first organizations and developing AI skills are essential for success. - Continuous learning, skill development, and staying updated with AI advancements are necessary to avoid being left behind in the tech landscape. - Removing every excuse for failure needs to be a leader's motto. Eric Vaughan is an experienced technology and M&A executive recognized for his innovation in the enterprise technology space. As IgniteTech's CEO, Eric is responsible for setting and executing the Company's vision, leading and motivating the global IgniteTech team to continue to drive the Company's business to success in the eyes of its customers. Eric is a frequent and noted author in industry publications including featured columns for executives in the enterprise software industry, and is a highly regarded speaker and thought leader on AI, GenAI and enterprise software company transformation. Connect with Eric: Website: https://ignitetech.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericlvaughan/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO #CEO #AI #Tech #Enterprise #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

250 Crisis Preparedness for Business with ‘Disaster' Patrick Hardy, Founder Reverse Disaster; Sacramento, CA, USA Patrick Hardy is a renowned expert in the field of emergency response challenges, boasting an impressive background which includes founding reversedisaster.com and accumulating hands-on experience from real-life emergency scenarios. This is why he is known in the industry as ‘Disaster Patrick'. Patrick has developed a perspective on emergency response that emphasizes proactive preparation and planning. His clients have covered everything from standard offices to alligator farms. Believing strongly in turning a disaster into an opportunity for growth and resilience, he promotes a culture of preparedness in both personal and professional settings. His unique approach to emergency readiness along with his wide ranging experiences have enriched his insights, making him a valuable source of guidance and expertise in the realm of emergency response. Patrick shares insights from his book Design any Disaster and touches on: - His journey from a single letter launching his career in emergency response, to founding his company, to stepping out as Disaster Patrick taking the culture of preparedness to the masses. - He explains the chronology of an incident and what you need to know about command, communicate, and carry out. - He uses the example of the chaotic aftermath of the false missile alert in Hawaii highlighted to demonstrate the cracks in a top down approach to disaster preparedness and the importance of empowering individuals at all levels to understand the proper emergency response plans. - He shares how he is now taking on ‘disaster challenges' where he is receiving challenges to go into scenarios with little knowledge and design and carry out an emergency response plan. Such as evacuating 300 cats from a cat sanctuary in a timed situation. - He explains how launching emergency response scenarios is something every business leader should do to educate teams and eliminating dependencies on there must be ‘a boss around to tell us what to do' thinking. This is crucial for business resilience and disaster prevention. Patrick is a graduate of FEMA's Advanced Academy and has also gone on to gain numerous certifications including FEMA's Master of Exercise, Certified Emergency Manager, Certified Risk Manager, and Master Business Continuity Professional. Drawing from his wealth of experience in disaster preparedness and response, Patrick equips audiences with practical strategies to break the Crisis Creation Chain and teaches them to eliminate disasters by turning disruptions into opportunities. His first book: Design Any Disaster: The Revolutionary Blueprint to Master Your Next Crisis or Emergency was released in late Spring of 2023. Connect with Patrick: Website: https://disasterpatrick.com/ and https://reversedisaster.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/disasterpatrick/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO #digitalmarketing #branding #CEO #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast #disasterpr #crisismanagement #publicrelations Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ronny Shmoel, CEO of Circuit City, has a background forged in successfully exiting multiple companies over the past two decades. His perspective on the transformation of Circuit City is rooted in the brand's core values of service and innovation, acknowledging the power of adapting these values to fit the modern market. His goal is to ensure that their brand is the leader in customer service and that ‘Powered by Circuit City' becomes a place of comfort and trust for the consumer. By expanding thoughtful partnerships while still doing what they do best, Ronny plans to bring Circuit City into the future while staying true to its roots. Here are the highlights of our talk: - Circuit City aims to redefine the consumer electronics market through service and innovation, prioritizing customer service and a consultative approach to stand out from competitors. - The company plans to expand into a third-party marketplace, allowing quality sellers to offer their products under the Circuit City brand, creating a unique niche in the US consumer electronics market. - Circuit City's e-commerce strategy focuses on personalized customer service, curated shopping experiences, live chat support, and personalized assistance in the product selection process. - The company differentiates itself from retail giants by offering a personalized, consultative approach to shopping, leveraging technology and human interaction to enhance the overall shopping experience. Ronny Shmoel is a seasoned serial entrepreneur with a highly successful proven track record of generating exceptional returns by building multiple businesses from the ground up, scaling them rapidly, and positioning them for successful exits. Ronny is an accomplished eCommerce and technology executive with 22 years of experience in the industry. His vast background in brand strategy, marketing, and intellectual property enables him to create and manage successful brand IP portfolios. Throughout his career he has consistently demonstrated a strong and consistent ability to drive growth and profitability for eCommerce businesses through effective strategy development, innovative marketing, and streamlined operations. Ronny has transformed struggling brands into successful ventures, with his last venture becoming one of the "Top 500 Internet Companies in the United States" for several consecutive years. He is widely respected in the business world and has been recognized numerous times for his groundbreaking accomplishments in the eCommerce and consumer electronics industries. Connect with Ronny: Website - https://circuitcity.com/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronnyshmoel/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO #digitalmarketing #branding #CEO #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast #AI #Bootstrapping #Amazon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

248 Is an Amazon Business for You? With Steven Pope, Founder of My Amazon Guy; Georgia, USA Steven Pope, widely known as "my Amazon guy," is a seasoned entrepreneur who transitioned from TV reporting to creating a 500-person agency focused on enhancing businesses' presence on Amazon. His unique perspective on Amazon delivery and ordering is shaped by his profound experience in e-commerce. He perceives Amazon Prime's delivery service as unrivaled in convenience and speed, thanks to its customer-centric approach and efficiency. He sees Amazon as a marketplace where many businesses can thrive due to high customer demand, though he notes not every business will succeed in this highly competitive platform. Steven believes that everyone can succeed on Amazon but cautions he has spent years learning the ins and outs that can keep you from stumbling when you take your own business down this path. Here are the highlights of our talk: - Native Born Amazon Brands are unique to the e-commerce world and exclusively exist on Amazon. - Sellers on Amazon face challenges like price pressure, Chinese competition, and changing rules by Amazon. - Amazon Prime's fast delivery service is discussed compared to Walmart and Target. - Setting big, hairy, audacious goals (BHAGs) is crucial for overcoming growth challenges. - Replacing yourself in leadership is essential for scaling up and advancing in a leadership role. - Sticking to known expertise is crucial in business for sustained growth. Steven is the founder of My Amazon Guy, an agency with 20-million dollars in annual revenue and 400+ active brands. Steven is a best selling author with his book “Amazon Selling Tips.” Steven started his career as a TV reporter in Idaho, then was an eCommerce Director for 10 years for brands ranging from Gold & Silver Coins to Women's Plus Size Clothing. Steven then created My Amazon Guy, an agency with 500+ employees on growing traffic and sales on Amazon. Steven not only owns MAG but also My Refund Guy, My Warehouse Guy, 4 Amazon Brands: Momstir & Age of Sage, HOLSTIT, and Lilly Posh. Steven has been viewed by millions of people on YouTube in thousands of videos where he shows how to handle ANY problem faced on Amazon. Connect with Steven: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-pope/ Youtube: https://youtube.com/myamazonguy Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myamazonguys/ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/myamazonguy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevenpopemag/ Connect with Allison: Feedspot has named Disruptive CEO Nation as one of the Top 25 CEO Podcasts on the web and it is ranked the number 10 CEO podcast to listen to in 2024! https://podcasts.feedspot.com/ceo_podcasts/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsummerschicago/ Website: https://www.disruptiveceonation.com/ Twitter: @DisruptiveCEO #digitalmarketing #branding #CEO #startup #startupstory #founder #business #businesspodcast #podcast #AI #Bootstrapping #Amazon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices