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If you're in high school and still unsure what you want to do after graduation, you're not behind — you're just standing at the starting line. In this episode, Brittany breaks down the fear of making “the wrong choice” and explains why taking any step forward is better than staying stuck.From her own story growing up in small-town North Dakota to working in New York and Orlando, Brittany shares how each decision — even the messy or unexpected ones — opened new doors. She'll talk about:Why structure matters in your late teens (and how college can provide it)The truth about student debt and why education is an investment, not a burdenThe myth of the “gap year” and why momentum is everythingHow to surround yourself with dreamers instead of lifersThe single phrase that will change your future: Don't wait for clarity — create it.If you've been waiting for a sign to move forward, this episode is it.Support the showGot a question or story you'd like to share? Message me HERE, and your submission might even be featured in an upcoming episode!
In June this year developmental biologist Ottoline Leyser stepped down as chief executive of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), the country's national research funding agency. In the final episode of a six-part Working Scientist podcast series about career planning, Leyser tells Julie Gould how the opportunity to lead UKRI came about, and how, for her, good career planning starts with reflecting on who you are what your values are. Leyser also finds the notion of work-life balance problematic, arguing that you cannot easily segregate the two from each other. “You're not your job. You are who you are,” she says. “And you can build a really fulfilling career by following who you are, and keeping your eyes on the full range of opportunities available to you to be who you are. And it's not going to be one thing. “In research careers, people get locked into this idea that there's really only one pathway, and that's the only way you can make use of your research skills and your research interests. And it's so untrue.” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, Roger Whitney continues his four-week series on retirement goal setting, focusing on the importance of building agile retirement goals. He emphasizes creating the right conditions for discovering what you truly want in retirement, rather than fixating on specific desires. Roger shares insights on self-discovery, the anatomy of goals, and the significance of establishing a solid foundation for a fulfilling retirement. Tune in to learn how to navigate your retirement journey with confidence and purpose!OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE OF THE RETIREMENT ANSWER MAN(00:00) This week Roger talks about building agile retirement goals.PRACTICAL PLANNING SEGMENT(03:10) The intent is to build goals that are more meaningful to you so you can rock retirement.(07:00) How do you set goals that are meaningful to you in an agile way?(07:39) You want to start with self-discovery and establishing or revisiting your values.(09:53) Focus on creating conditions to explore your values and build a life where fulfillment naturally follows. (13:43) You have to experiment to determine what is right for you.(18:30) Roger talks about the anatomy of a goal, specifically low stakes goals that maximize optionality in retirement planning.(21:08) Roger talks about high stakes goals.(25:04) Low-stakes goals help you experiment, make confident decisions, and discover what truly supports a fulfilling retirement. LISTENER QUESTIONS(27:30) Roger answers Melissa's questions about rolling over an IRA without penalty and whether to trust a flat-fee fiduciary firm that offers to manage her accounts. (33:06) Greg asks Roger to revisit healthcare before Medicare. (34:17) Rob asks about deferring Social Security to age 70 and whether he still receives COLA increases in addition to the 8% delayed retirement credit.(36:03) Chris asks about using only a total world stock and bond index for his portfolio.(40:20) Roger advises keeping a local contingency fund so you always have accessible cash and don't feel “cash poor.”SMART SPRINT(43:20) Go back to your retirement goals and the plan you've put together. Look at them through the lens of our recent discussionRESOURCESSign up for our next Webinar!Scarcity Brain: Fix Your Craving Mindset and Rewire Your Habits to Thrive with Enough- Michael EasterSubmit a Question for RogerSign up for The NoodleFOLLOW US ON SOCIALSFollow Us on Facebook!Follow Us on Instagram
This week on the Power of Owning Your Career Podcast, host Simone Morris welcomes Charlotte Dales, co-founder and CEO of Inclusively, for a lively and insightful discussion on charting your own course and building inclusive workplaces. Charlotte shares her remarkable journey—from banking at Deutsche Bank to starting successful companies and sparking positive change after being inspired by her cousin's achievements. Tune in for actionable tips on handling rejection, planning bold career moves, leveraging technology for growth, and embracing a mindset that keeps you in the driver's seat—no matter where you're starting from. Episode Highlights & Timestamps: [00:00] Intro to Charlotte & Overview of Inclusively [00:03] Charlotte's early career aspirations and pivot to finance [00:07] If your career were a book—Charlotte's title & philosophy [00:08] The formula for owning your career: key ingredients and mindsets [00:10] Stories of rejection, resilience, and not taking no for an answer [00:17] Strategies for self-advocacy and pitching yourself [00:19] Game-changing career resources (including Blinkist & AI) [00:22] Realizing you're in the driver's seat: the London story [00:23] Charlotte's parting words on perseverance and choice [00:24] How to connect with Charlotte and Inclusively Learn More & Get Involved: Learn more about host Simone E. Morris: LinkedIn Apply or recommend a guest: Become a Guest on the Show Looking for career support from Simone? Visit 52 Tips for Owning Your Career Connect with Charlotte: Inclusively: Website Charlotte Dales on LinkedIn: LinkedIn Follow & Subscribe: Follow us on social @simonemorrisent for updates & success tips! Subscribe for more inspiring guests and actionable career episodes.
For many college applicants, the dream of higher education would be unattainable without the support of their parents and guardians. That doesn't mean, however, that these well-meaning adults can't become an adverse influence in admissions. Amy and Mike invited educational consultant Lisa Hillhouse to discuss how parents can support and not derail the college process. What are five things you will learn in this episode? 1. What non-negotiable terms should be established at the beginning of the process? 2. How can parents support the exploration phase of the college search process? 3. What activities should parents engage in with their student in the process? 4. How should parents model grace in challenging situations? 5. How can parents reassure their student in the process and its final outcome? MEET OUR GUEST Lt. Col. Lisa Hillhouse is an independent educational consultant and the founder of Hillhouse College and Career Advising, based in Atlanta. Prior to launching her practice, Lisa retired from the Air Force after 26 years of active duty and reserve service. Much of that time focused on officer recruitment and leadership development. Lisa began her admissions journey with a special assignment to Air Force ROTC at the University of California, Berkeley. She loved educating and mentoring young leaders and continued that work at the United States Air Force Academy as a deputy liaison officer director and admissions liaison officer. There she helped lead and manage one of the largest recruiting areas in the nation while evaluating and developing candidates for military careers. While in college, Lisa enrolled in AFROTC and went on to earn a scholarship and a commission. Lisa has a Bachelor's degree in Politics from Assumption University, a Master's degree in Human Relations from the University of Oklahoma, and a College and Career Planning graduate certificate from the University of California, Berkeley. Lisa is nationally recognized for her expertise and specialty of guiding and supporting students through the complex process of becoming commissioned officers. Many of her students are focused on earning ROTC scholarships, military service academy appointments, or becoming officer training school candidates. Lisa also collaborates with other consultants around the country. She frequently presents at admissions conferences and webinars and has served as a guest presenter for college advising courses. Lisa first appeared on our podcast in episode 104 to discuss Applying To A Military Academy and in episode 184 for Demonstrating Leadership In College Applications. Lisa was featured in an IEC Profile in episode 315. You can find out more about Lisa at www.HillhouseCollegeAdvising.com. LINKS How Parents Can Support (Not Derail) The College Process How parents can be involved in the college admissions process—without overstepping College Planning Timeline RELATED EPISODES THE ROLE OF PARENTS IN THE COLLEGE PROCESS HOW PARENTS CAN BEST SUPPORT STUDENTS IN TEST PREP THE PARENT TRANSITION FROM HIGH SCHOOL TO COLLEGE ABOUT THIS PODCAST Tests and the Rest is THE college admissions industry podcast. Explore all of our episodes on the show page. ABOUT YOUR HOSTS Mike Bergin is the president of Chariot Learning and founder of TestBright, Roots2Words, and College Eagle. Amy Seeley is the president of Seeley Test Pros and LEAP. If you're interested in working with Mike and/or Amy for test preparation, training, or consulting, get in touch through our contact page.
On this episode of the ABB Solutions Podcast, host Mike Murphy sits down with Randy Stevens, North American Training Manager for ABB Automation Solutions. Together they talk about the importance of setting clear goals in both your personal and professional life, and how those goals help you take control of your direction and success.Tune in to hear insights on:The Power of Goals: Why defining your goals gives you ownership of your path in life and work.Breaking It Down: How to make big goals more realistic through simple backward planning and small milestones.Career Growth: How ABB's mentoring programs help employees build a strong foundation for leadership and growth.Realistic vs. Outrageous: Finding the balance between stretch goals and expectations that are too high to reach.Practical Advice: Randy's tips for setting goals that fit your situation and checking in regularly to stay on track.If you'd like to learn more about leadership, planning, and personal growth, check out these previous episodes of the ABB Solutions Podcast:Strategy: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1770390/episodes/17631204Team Building: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1770390/episodes/17267078
SHOW NOTESIn this episode, Roger Whitney sits down with Carl Richards, a financial advisor-turned-artist, to talk about keeping retirement planning simple and meaningful. They dive into the idea of “elegant simplicity,” the importance of knowing your goals, and making decisions that actually work for you. Plus, hear inspiring stories from club members to help you rock your retirement!OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE OF THE RETIREMENT ANSWER MAN(00:00) The ultimate goal in building a retirement plan of record is elegant simplicityCHAT WITH CARL RICHARDS(02:00) Roger introduces Carl Richards.(03:50) Carl started sketching to help explain complex financial concepts.(07:33) Roger asks Carl about his new book coming out in October.(11:00) Roger and Carl talk about the differences between simplistic and elegant simplicity in retirement planning.(17:55) How do you decide when you have enough information to make a decision?(22:19) There are many different types of decisions that need to be made- Decisions where you need a lot of research versus decisions where you already have all of the information.(26:58) Writing makes decisions tangible versus rehashing them in your brain(28:19) Carl talks about mimetic desire and figuring out what it is that you really want.(39:45) Carl says he loves the idea of experiment design.(41:40) Carl talks about living a life of meaning.(46:50) There is a deep source of identity and purpose that comes from work. When you remove that, what do you replace it with?(52:58) Carl talks about competing values.(55:00) Roger talks about the Retirement Life Lab in the Rock Retirement ClubSMART SPRINT(56:43) In the next seven days, review your retirement plan and look for ways to simplify it so it's easier to manage.CONCLUSION(57:37) Roger says that what stuck out to him from the conversation is how difficult it can be to truly know what we want and how easy it is to just grab someone else's goals, when what we really need is to slow down and take the time to define our own so we don't end up living a life that doesn't fit us.REFERENCESSubmit a Question for RogerSign up for The NoodleThe Retirement Answer ManBehaviorGap.com- Carl RichardsFOLLOW US ON SOCIALS!Follow Us on Facebook!Follow Us on Instagram
SHOW NOTESIn this episode, we tackle the often-overlooked topic of taxes in retirement with expert Erin Coe, an enrolled agent. Discover how to avoid unexpected penalties and interest on your IRA distributions and Roth conversions. We also share an inspiring retirement success story from Lottie, reminding us of the importance of clarity and simplicity in planning. Tune in for practical advice that will help you rock your retirement!OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE OF THE RETIREMENT ANSWER MAN(00:00) Today Erin Coe joins Roger to talk through penalties and interest during retirement, what those things are.ROCKIN' RETIREMENT IN THE WILD(01:30) Lottie says she got caught up in ideas about the perfect retirement and it was getting in her way.PRACTICAL PLANNING SEGMENT WITH ERIN COE(03:31) Today we're going to talk about penalties and interest when it comes to taxes.(04:52) Erin explains the difference between a tax penalty and interest.(11:14) Roger asked Erin how to calculate an estimated quarterly tax if not doing safe harbor?(13:55) Erin shares her tips on tax returns.(16:08) Being prepared is always better than being taken by surprise when it comes to taxes.LISTENER QUESTIONS(16:40) Roger makes a correction on a past statement.(17:25) Jeff asks a question about the pie-cake explainer video.(20:30) Dave asks a question about helping his elderly mother with her finances.(26:11) Robert asks about getting two mortgages near retirement.SMART SPRINT(32:15) Over the next seven days, download the 1040 form and review how it applies to your retirement income. Decide whether you'll handle taxes through estimated payments, safe harbor payments, or automatic withholdings from distributions.REFERENCESSubmit a Question for RogerSign up for The NoodleThe Retirement Answer ManIRS.gov FormsFOLLOW US ON SOCIALS!Follow Us on Facebook!Follow Us on Instagram
Davit Karapetyan, Director of The School of Philadelphia Ballet, joins us to talk about how the school is structured and how dancers move through its levels, from the pre-professional program to PBII and beyond. He explains how auditions are evaluated, what adjudicators look for, and the common mistakes dancers should avoid. We also dig into how scholarships are awarded and renewed, the housing available to students, and what families should consider when deciding if it is time to move to a company-affiliated school. Karapetyan discusses the realities of career planning at the postgraduate level, how many dancers transition into PBII and the main company, and the skills students need both inside and outside the studio before leaving home for residential training. Finally, he shares his perspective on navigating the financial realities of ballet, managing expectations in a competitive field, and what he wishes young dancers and parents better understood about the path to a professional career. Read Reviews of The School of Philadelphia Ballet Links: Shop Our Back to Dance Guide Buy Corrections Journals Support Ballet Help Desk Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk Facebook: BalletHelpDesk TikTok: Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI
Today marks the beginning of a 5-part interview series with all sorts of incredible authors and industry pros! I am so thrilled to kick things off with this fabulous interview with my literary agent, and the founder of Mad Woman Literary Agency, Danielle Burby! Danielle and I focused our conversation on post-debut and mid-career authors. So instead of the typical questions about how to query, we dive deep into strategic career planning, what to do when a book as a “challenging sales history,” how to make a big pivot to a new age category or genre, and so much more! You can learn more about Danielle (and what she's currently looking for in her query inbox) on the Mad Woman Literary Agency website. And don't forget to follow the agency on Instagram! *** The publishing industry is hard. That's why I created The Confident Author Academy. My 6-month coaching program (+ online course) helps you build the mindset & emotional resilience you need to thrive as an author. To learn more and get on the waitlist for when spots open again, go to http://www.isabelsterling.com/academy Looking for even more author advice and notifications about upcoming workshops? Sign up for my weekly Real Talk for Writers newsletter by clicking here. DM me on Instagram & let me know what you thought of this episode!
Every job offer looks different on the surface, but what really matters is buried in the fine print. Sometimes the details that don't make it onto the headline page end up shaping your career more than the pay rate ever could. Today we're going to pull back the curtain and talk about the hidden levers inside EM contracts that can determine whether a role is the right fit—or a costly mistake.
Reinventing your life or career starts with reflection and conversation. Making the leap — to a new career, to the next stage of a relationship, or to a different version of yourself — requires honest communication. For Ilana Golan, being “leap-ready” requires that we answer three questions: Why me? Why this? And why now?Golan knows all about these leaps, as her career spans corporate executive roles, entrepreneurship, and even F-16 flight instruction. As the founder of Leap Academy and host of the Leap Academy Podcast, she helps equip others to navigate their own personal and professional reinventions. As she says, “It's really about communicating from the vision,” which starts as an inside job. “Why is this the right thing for me right now? You convince yourself first, because when you're [at] peace with what you're trying to do, it's a lot easier to convince others.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Golan and host Matt Abrahams explore how honest communication shapes every stage of reinvention, whether that's listening to the signals your mind and body are sending you — like “sleepwalking through life” and imagining something more — or articulating your pivot in ways that create understanding rather than resistance. Wherever you hope to leap, Golan's insights show how to communicate through change with confidence and clarity.Episode Reference Links:Ilana GolanLeap Academy Podcast | Leap AcademyEp.187 Experimenting, Failing, and Finding Your Job Fit - Catalyze Your CareerEp.147 Disrupt Yourself: How to Innovate Who You Are and Become Who You Can Be Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (01:39) - Breaking Barriers & Career Patterns (02:18) - Waking Up to Change (03:42) - Signs It's Time for a Pivot (06:45) - The Rise of Portfolio Careers (10:17) - Communicating Career Leaps (13:29) - Finding Clarity in Reinvention (20:01) - The Final Three Questions (22:56) - Conclusion *****Thank you to our sponsors. These partnerships support the ongoing production of the podcast, allowing us to bring it to you for free.This episode is brought to you by Babbel. Think Fast Talk Smart listeners can start your language learning journey today- visit Babbel.com/Thinkfast and get up to 55% off your Babbel subscription.
Sarah Ohanesian is a keynote speaker, productivity strategist, and former Chief Marketing Officer who now helps high-performing professionals and teams do their most important work…without burning out. Her keynotes and workshops leave audiences energized and equipped to eliminate busywork, prioritize high-impact tasks, and make real impact. Sarah is the co-founder of Super Productive, a neuro-inclusive productivity consulting company, where she helps teams cut through the chaos by building clear workflows, organizing projects in tools like Asana, and making sure everyone knows what to do and when to do it–so the most important work actually gets done. You'll walk away from this episode with a truly fresh perspective. “I had been thinking about Productivity. I have been a student of productivity. I love productivity. I do podcasts about productivity. I read about productivity. I just love it so much. And at the same time, everyone I was talking to, when I would say ‘Hi. How are you?' they would answer, ‘I'm busy. I'm stressed out. I'm burned out. I'm overwhelmed.' It was like every person I'm talking to is feeling this way. So what can I do about it? And I had this idea, maybe I should start a productivity company. I had no idea what that actually meant. I just thought I have an idea. And a few people said to me, it's a good one. And I had one person say to me, ‘What if you did?' I will say that moment changed everything.”
David Morse, Academy Principal and Director of the Professional Training Division at Cincinnati Ballet Academy, joins us to share insights on how the school is structured, what adjudicators look for in auditions, and how scholarships work for students. He also discusses the culture he aims to foster at CBA, how the trainee and second company programs connect dancers to careers, and the realities of preparing young artists for professional life. From audition advice to navigating low salaries in ballet, David offers clear guidance for students and parents on the path to becoming a professional dancer. You can learn more about CBA on their website. Links: Shop Our Back to Dance Guide Buy Corrections Journals Support Ballet Help Desk Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk Facebook: BalletHelpDesk Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI
In this episode of the Drop In CEO podcast Deb Coviello welcomes Curtis McCullom, CEO of The Curtis McCullom Group and founder of Bespoke Human Potential Coaching. Curtis shares his journey from top sales agent to transformative coach, revealing how he helps CEOs, entrepreneurs, and high achievers eliminate hidden mindset blocks and unlock their fullest potential. The conversation explores the LGET mindset, the power of hypnotherapy, and practical strategies for personal and professional growth. Episode Highlights:13:00 The influence of mentors and the importance of continuous learning18:00 Developing the LGET mindset and integrating coaching frameworks22:00 The role of hypnotherapy in personal transformation27:00 How neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) interrupts limiting patterns Curtis McCullom, CEO of the Curtis McCullom Group LLC and founder of Bespoke Human Potential Coaching, empowers CEOs, entrepreneurs, and high achievers to eliminate hidden mindset blocks and unlock their fullest potential. Through transformative coaching rooted in the L.G.E.T. Mindset™—Learning, Growing, Expanding, and Transforming—Curtis helps individuals become the best version of themselves, both personally and professionally. Connect with Curtis McCullom: Company Website: www.curtismccullom.comSocial Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-mccullom/https://www.linkedin.com/company/bespoke-human-potential-coaching/https://www.instagram.com/curtis.mccullom/https://twitter.com/curtisBmccullomhttps://tiktok.com/@curtismccullomhttps://youtube.com/@curtismccullomhttps://www.facebook.com/BespokeHumanPotentialhttps://www.facebook.com/curtis.mccullom.BHPC/ For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, we speak with Tony Steuer, CLU, LA, CPFFE, an internationally recognized financial fluency advocate, award-winning author, and host of The Get Ready Money Podcast. Financial fluency and planning mirrors much of what individuals experience in their career planning and progression. Think of mindset, personal preferences, emotions, and life goals. Topics in the discussion include: How goal setting can help you choose various paths that align with what you want in life Financial fluency is something people can learn at any point in life Understanding job and financial scams, and things to be on the lookout for if they come to you As the founder of The Get Ready Movement, Tony is leading a shift in how we think about money—not just as numbers, but as a tool for living a more intentional and empowered life. Through his books, podcast, curated recommendations, and expert insights, Tony helps financial professionals, educators, and individuals ask better questions, foster meaningful money conversations, and take purposeful action. He is the Chief Evangelist at Yetworth Collaborative and serves as an advisor to Insurance Nerds and Dingo Technologies. Tony's thought leadership has earned recognition as a Finalist in ThinkAdvisor's LUMINARIES Class of 2022 for Thought Leadership & Education. He has served as a Judge for the MAIA Awards and the 2023 Finder Innovation Awards, and as a longtime member of the California Department of Insurance Curriculum Board. A trusted voice in the media, Tony contributes as an expert content reviewer for Nerdwallet, Bankrate, and Forbes Advisor, and has been featured by ABC's Seven on Your Side, CNBC, Cheddar TV, The New York Times, Washington Post, Fast Company, Chicago Tribune, and Fox Business News. Tony's website is https://www.tonysteuer.com/ The episode is moderated by Justyn Makarewycz, Deputy Director, Employer and Recruiter Relations at the GCMC (https://www.linkedin.com/in/justyndm/)
In this episode of the Drop In CEO podcast, Deb Coviello welcomes Shane Barker, CEO and founder of TraceFuse, the first Amazon TOS-compliant negative review removal system. The conversation covers entrepreneurship, the importance of focus, lessons learned from business growth, and the value of work-life balance. Shane also discusses the origins of Trace Fuse, the challenges of working with Amazon, and his commitment to helping business owners protect their reputations and feed their families. Episode Highlights: 02:00 Shane’s Backstory: From restaurants to digital marketing and influencer education 07:00 Lessons from early businesses and the drive to help others 13:00 The origin and mission of Trace Fuse 18:00 How Trace Fuse helps Amazon sellers proactively and reactively 22:00 Relationship with Amazon and the challenges of review removal 27:00 Growth, focus, and the future of Trace Fuse 32:00 Work-life balance, personal growth, and building a high-performing small team 38:00 Shane’s life outside of work and the importance of family 44:00 Final advice, how to connect with Shane, and closing thoughts Shane Barker is the CEO and founder of TraceFuse, the first Amazon TOS-compliant negative review removal system. With over 25 years of marketing experience supporting Fortune 500 brands, Shane has been recognized as a leading influencer. His recent focus is helping Amazon sellers combat negative reviews through TraceFuse’s innovative, white-hat solution. Connect with Shane Barker: Twitter: https://twitter.com/shane_barkerFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShaneBarkerConsultant/Instagram: http://instagram.com/shanebarkerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanebarkerCompany LinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tracefuse/ For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
For dermatology NPs and PAs, the influence of private equity investment in the space can have effects on everything from basic supplies used daily in the clinic to compensation and retirement planning. DEF Advisory Council member Kara Gooding, MS, PA-C joins Michelle Sullentrup, CEO of myDermRecruiter, to discuss these issues and more. Plus, David Cohen, MD, MPH, FAAD addresses topical skincare selection amid concerns for contact dermatitis, and Jayme Heim, MSN, FNP-C shares tips on managing families of pediatric patients. Like what you're hearing? Want to learn more about the Dermatology Education Foundation? Explore assets and resources on our website.
In this episode, Roger Whitney welcomes Michael Easter, New York Times bestselling author of 'The Comfort Crisis' and 'Scarcity Brain.' They delve into the concept of overcoming frugality and the evolutionary mismatches that affect our resource management in retirement. Discover how short-term discomfort can lead to long-term growth, the importance of taking the stairs in life, and the psychological implications of our modern abundance. Tune in for insights that can help you not just survive retirement, but thrive in it!*Episode originally aired March 27, 2024OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE OF THE RETIREMENT ANSWER MAN[01:04] Today we have Michael Easter, author of Scarcity Brain, on the show.PRACTICAL PLANNING SEGMENT WITH MICHAEL EASTER[02:20] Roger introduces Michael Easter to the show[03:14] The Comfort Crisis falls into the Energy Pillar- building energy so you can show up for your life.[04:30] Roger asks Michael what his objective was in exploring the Comfort Crisis[09:40] Why is it a bad thing to be comfortable?[12:40] How do we start being more uncomfortable?[16:11] The Scarcity Brain falls into the Vision Pillar.[18:00] Why do we have a constant feeling that we don't have enough?[25:25] Quantifying goals is not always the best thing to do.[29:01] Michael defines what the scarcity loop is.TODAY'S SMART SPRINT SEGMENT[33:21] In the next seven days, take the stairs! Do something that most people don't do.RESOURCESBOOK - The Comfort Crisis by Michael EasterBOOK - Scarcity Brain by Michael EasterStutzRock Retirement ClubFOLLOW US ON SOCIALSFollow Us on Facebook!Follow Us on Instagram
In this episode of the Drop In CEO podcast, Deb Coviello welcomes Lance Cayko, a serial entrepreneur, architect, builder, and co-founder of F9 Productions. Lance shares his journey from rural North Dakota to building a vertically integrated business in architecture, construction, and real estate development. The conversation explores the value of mentorship, the design-build model, affordable sustainability, and the importance of finding the right business partner. Lance also offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and insights into building a client-focused, resilient business. Episode Highlights: 06:10 Early Lessons in Entrepreneurship and Money 15:30 Discovering Architecture and the Power of Mentorship 23:45 Building F9 Productions During the Great Recession 32:20 The Design-Build Model Explained 39:00 Niche Client Selection and Business Philosophy 45:15 Affordable Sustainability in Architecture Lance Cayko is an award-winning architect, builder, educator, and serial entrepreneur. As co-founder of F9 Productions, a top-rated design-build firm in Longmont, Colorado, Lance brings deep expertise in architecture, construction, and real estate development. He holds degrees in Building Construction Technology, Environmental Design, and a Master of Architecture, graduating top of his class with the McKenzie Thesis Award. Lance teaches at CU Boulder and NDSU, co-hosts the Inside the Firm podcast, and leads Longmont Community Gardens as founder and president. A proud dad and professional fisherman, Lance is passionate about building stronger communities—one project, class, and garden at a time. Connect with Lance Cayko: Instagram: @fishingwithlance Company Website: f9productions.com For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of the Drop In CEO podcast Dr. Denise Brown, a transformative leader in healthcare with over three decades of experience, shares her journey from medical school to becoming a Chief Strategy Officer and eventually a CEO. She discusses how she chose personal satisfaction over traditional success metrics, emphasizing the importance of making conscious, heartfelt decisions in both personal and professional life. The conversation also explores Dr. Brown's book, 'The Fairy God Doctor's Guide to a Good Life,' focusing on the seven prescriptions she outlines for living a fulfilled life. Both hosts discuss the challenges and rewards of embracing one's true self in leadership roles. Episode Highlights: 05:19 Choosing Satisfaction Over Success 11:06 Insights from 'The Fairy God Doctor's Guide to a Good Life' 14:37 Balancing Life and Leadership 20:47 Mentorship and Legacy With over three decades of experience in healthcare as a physician, CEO and Chief Strategy Officer, Denise S. Brown, MD is a transformative leader who helps women in business learn how to prioritize and avoid maternal overwhelm. A thought leader in self-care activities for women, she brings her expertise to books for successful women. A graduate of The University of Chicago's Pritzker School of Medicine, with training at Stanford and Vanderbilt, she lives with Alex, her childhood sweetheart of 28 years, and their sons Will and Hank. Connect with Dr. Denise Brown: Instagram: @thefairygoddoctor Company Website: https://www.sagepartners.net/ For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this enlightening episode, we tackle the often overlooked mental shift required in retirement: transitioning from a saver to a spender. Join us as we revisit a compelling conversation with Dr. Daniel Crosby, Chief Behavioral Officer at Orion Advisory Services. We'll explore the psychological barriers many face in letting go of frugality and how to embrace the resources they've accumulated to enhance their lives. Discover practical strategies to gain confidence in spending, overcome the fear of uncertainty, and ultimately, live a fulfilling retirement without the regret of dying with too much money. Tune in for insights that could transform your approach to retirement!*This episode originally aired March 20, 2024OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE OF THE RETIREMENT ANSWER MAN[00:30] Overcoming frugality is a major crisis for many in retirementINTERVIEW WITH DAN CROSBY[01:19] Roger introduces Daniel Crosby.[02:50] How do we overcome frugality?[04:30] There are a lot of behavioral things that change when you leave full-time work.[09:45] How to gain confidence in the midst of uncertainty.[17:22] People are wired to avoid regret.[18:01] What are some basic things people can do to overcome frugality?[22:16] You can't undo 40 years of programming in 4 minutes- experiment with behavior and small commitments.TODAY'S SMART SPRINT SEGMENT[25:15] In the next seven days, I challenge you to examine your retirement plan and ask yourself- is there something else I should add that's important to my life?RESOURCESBOOK - The Soul of Wealth by Dan CrosbyBOOK - The Top 5 Regrets of the Dying by Bronnie WareBOOK - Die with Nothing by Bill PerkinsRock Retirement ClubFOLLOW US ON SOCIALSFollow Us on Facebook!Follow Us on Instagram
In this episode of the Drop In CEO podcast Errol Allen shares insights on helping C-Suite leaders and organizations enhance their process efficiency, reduce costs, and achieve better business outcomes. Errol delves into the importance of process documentation, the role of CEOs in leading these initiatives, and the benefits of thorough documentation for training and internal operations. Highlighted is a case study where Errol helped a company streamline operations, resulting in improved morale, better performance, and increased company value. Tune in to learn how to overcome resistance in process documentation and when to consider automation for optimal efficiency. Episode Highlights: 02:15 Errol's Personal and Professional Journey 10:27 The Importance of Process Documentation 21:22 Navigating Resistance and Achieving Buy-In Errol Allen is a process improvement and systems expert who helps organizations align people, processes, and technology for better efficiency and ROI. With a hands-on approach shaped by roles at companies like ADT, GEICO, and The Houston Post, Errol launched his consulting business in 2011 to pursue his passion for smart systems and stellar service. He facilitates cross-functional process improvements across industries like property management, logistics, and manufacturing. A Houston native and natural storyteller, Errol’s insights have been featured in the Houston Business Journal, Customer Experience Magazine (UK), and more. His favorite saying? “I’m just having fun!” Connect with Errol Allen: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/errolallen/ Company Website: http://www.errolallenconsulting.com For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of the Drop In CEO podcast Ashish Gupta, founder and CEO of ScaleUpExec, shares his journey from co-founding a wireless technology company acquired by Qualcomm, to working at Apple, and eventually starting his own firm focused on fractional leadership for small and medium-sized businesses. They discuss the importance of understanding the needs of both the business and its team, the challenges and strategies involved in transforming distressed businesses, and the benefits of having a versatile COO. Ashish emphasizes the value of introspection for entrepreneurs to clearly define their business goals and align their teams accordingly. Episode Highlights: 02:28 Ashish Gupta's Journey: From Wireless Tech to Apple 03:44 Entrepreneurial Challenges and Successes 05:52 Transforming a Distressed Business 08:55 Insights on Leadership and Team Building 17:29 The Role and Impact of Fractional COOs Ashish has had a long journey in business and tech - selling 2 businesses where he was founder-level, managing a $2B/year budget at Apple, and now running a fractional COO firm that has turned around over 20 businesses. He is an expert at helping leaders and businesses reach their potential. Connect with Ashish Gupta: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashish-gup/ Company Website: https://scaleupexec.com/ For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, we explore the journey of retirement through the eyes of Brad, a member of the Rock Retirement Club. Brad shares his experience of moving to The Villages in Florida, detailing his decision-making process, the community's offerings, and how it has transformed his retirement lifestyle. Join us as we uncover valuable insights and tips for anyone considering retirement living, all while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of this unique community.OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE OF THE RETIREMENT ANSWER MANA MINI CASE STUDY[01:30] Roger introduces Brad and asks how he discovered The Villages Retirement Community in Florida.[09:30] Roger asks Brad what led them to explore 55+ communities.[11:35] Brad explains how The Villages community is organized.[19:14] Roger asks Brad what advice he would give to someone exploring places to retire.TODAY'S SMART SPRINT SEGMENT[22:09] In the next seven days, think about where you are going to live in retirement.RESOURCESThe Villages CommunityRock Retirement ClubFOLLOW US ON SOCIALSFollow Us on Facebook!Follow Us on Instagram
In this episode, Lisa and Jyoti discuss:Evaluating college programs for women pursuing STEM degreesThe impact of institutional culture and faculty representation on female STEM persistenceThe role of clubs, communities, and scholarships in STEM success for womenTools and strategies for in-depth college research for female STEM studentsKey Takeaways: Female representation among STEM faculty and mentors significantly improves persistence and confidence in women students by providing relatable role models actively involved in research and mentorship.Programs and colleges that intentionally prioritize gender equity through hiring, admissions goals, and targeted initiatives can offer a more welcoming and empowering environment for women pursuing STEM fields.Supportive ecosystems such as student clubs, professional organizations, and gender-focused learning communities create a vital sense of belonging and peer encouragement that helps women navigate male-dominated disciplines.Early and intentional exposure to hands-on STEM experiences, from middle school through college internships and fellowships, is essential in nurturing both curiosity and long-term career success for young women in science and engineering. “Having women role models to look up to for younger women makes it a little less intimidating.” – Jyoti JainAbout Jyoti Jain: Jyoti found her passion for college counseling while helping her own child through the college admissions process and decided to pursue a Certificate in Career Planning and College Counseling from UC Berkeley Extension.She specializes in STEM, Engineering, and the Pre-Med track. She believes that college is all about fit and is excited about empowering students in discovering their unique STEM journeys.Episode References:#123 College Institutional Priorities: Understanding Who Gets In with Aly Beaumont#132 Computer Science and STEM Admissions Tips with Jyoti JainCommon Data Set InitiativeThe College Finder Fifth Edition by Dr. Steven R. AntonoffGet Lisa's Free on-demand video: How-to guide for your teen to choose the right major, college, & career...(without painting themselves into a corner, missing crucial deadlines, or risking choices you both regret).flourishcoachingco.com/video Connect with Jyoti:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jyoticollegeconsultantLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaincollegeconsulting/Website: https://jaincollegeconsulting.com/Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingcoInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co
In this episode of the Drop In CEO podcast Noel Massie shares his journey from starting as a part-time supervisor to becoming Vice President of UPS’s US Delivery Operations. He emphasizes the importance of intentional leadership, focusing on the development of team members, and shares his insights on effectively communicating and influencing without coercion. Noel discusses his book, 'Congrats You've Been Promoted,' which offers practical advice for new and seasoned leaders alike. Additionally, he talks about his extensive involvement in community service and the impact of projects like second grade literacy initiatives. Episode Highlights: 09:13 The Importance of Investing in People 20:55 The Importance of Communication Skills 21:31 Directional Communication: A Key Leadership Skill 22:37 The Tactical Side of Leadership Noel Massie began working for UPS part time during college and rose through the ranks tobecome vice president for UPS’s US Delivery Operations. Before his retirement in 2019, heoversaw 200,000 employees who were led by 12,000 supervisors. In this role, Noel supportedand guided the package delivery and logistic services in the United States. He continues tomentor young leaders and supervisors. Connect with Noel Massie: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noel-massie-8b7511a/ Company Website: https://noelmassie.com/ Masterclass: https://noelmassie.com/choose-your-bonus-package/#masterclass For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of the Drop In CEO podcast Michelle Drolet, Founder and CEO of Towerwall, to discuss the complexities of cybersecurity and her journey as a leader in the tech industry. Michelle shares her personal and professional background, detailing her rise to CEO, overcoming significant challenges, and her strategies for building robust cyber defense programs for clients. The conversation highlights her resilience through personal adversities, the significance of trustworthy relationships, and the importance of giving back to the community through initiatives like the Towerwall Cyber Summit. Michelle emphasizes the need for organizations to be proactive and vigilant in their cybersecurity efforts, offering insights into how Towerwall partners with clients to secure their digital infrastructure. The episode concludes with inspiring words on leadership, resilience, and the importance of community impact. Episode Highlights: 02:15 Michelle's Journey in Cybersecurity 07:05 Challenges and Resilience in Leadership 14:40 The Importance of Cybersecurity 27:08 Family and Business: A Personal Insight Michelle Drolet is the Founder and CEO of Towerwall, a leading cybersecurity firm serving clients like BOSE, Smith & Wesson, Brown University, and UMass Memorial Health. Recognized as one of CTO Magazine’s "Top Women in Cybersecurity" and named to Forbes’ "50 Over 50," Michelle brings decades of experience helping organizations protect what matters most. With a client roster that spans industries and borders—including the Insurance Board of the Bahamas—Michelle is a sought-after thought leader and speaker. She’d be honored to join The Drop in CEO podcast to share actionable insights from the front lines of cybersecurity leadership and strategy. Connect with Michelle Drolet: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-drolet-a926b79/ Company Website: Towerwall.com For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
All of July we will be replaying some of our popular past episodes. In this episode, we engage with retirement planning expert Michael Kitces as we explore the evolving landscape of retirement planning. Discover the importance of flexibility in retirement spending and how to select the right retirement planner for your needs. We also discuss the implications of dying with too much money and the critical questions you should ask when interviewing potential advisors. Tune in for insights that will empower you to not just survive, but truly rock your retirement!OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE OF THE RETIREMENT ANSWER MAN(0:00) The key to finding a retirement planner is to find someone that puts YOU and not your money in the center of everything.(00:45) Today we have a replay of last year's interview with Michael Kitces.INTERVIEW WITH MICHAEL KITCES(02:11) Roger introduces Michael Kitces and chats about flexibility.(13:30) Michael says as a professional, he does not want to have a client fail on his watch.(19:21) Roger says the quote that comes to mind when he thinks about retirement planning is: “You're never going to be exonerated from uncertainty, pain, or the need to do work” Stutz(24:00) Most people understand that change is to be expected.(29:05) Michael talks about risk tolerance.(32:55) Michael reflects on the question “How do we help clients actually make better decisions?”(33:51) Tips on how to choose a retirement planner.SMART SPRINT (45:55) In the next seven days, evaluate the quality of your process for making decisions in retirement.RESOURCESBOOK - Die with Zero by Bill PerkinsBOOK - It's Not Complicated by Rick NasonKitces.comBOOK - Rock Retirement by Roger WhitneyRoger's Retirement Learning CenterFOLLOW US ON SOCIALSFollow Us on Facebook!Follow Us on Instagram
Waverly Deutsch doesn't just coach entrepreneurs—she translates English to English, reframes stories with strategy, and helps even the most logic-trained professionals tap into their conviction. In this three-part series, we walk through her unusual path from consulting to Chicago Booth to founding WyseHeart, her pitch strategy firm.Each episode reveals a new dimension of her journey: the personal (Part 1), the academic and instructional (Part 2), and the entrepreneurial, including her bold take on how to co-exist with AI (Part 3). Across every chapter, Waverly models what it means to coach with both love and logic—bringing clear frameworks to messy human dreams.Key Highlights of Our Interview:What Investors Actually Want“Good ideas are everywhere. I invest in people who know how to execute.”Lessons from both sides of the table: raising capital and writing checks.You Are Not Your Company“When a startup fails, it doesn't mean you failed.”Helping founders detach identity from outcome.The Metrics That Really Matter“Sometimes traction isn't revenue—it's retention, referrals, or even the right kind of no.”How she helps founders track the right signals.Managing the Urge to Please“Women, especially, are taught to be agreeable. That doesn't work in fundraising.”Teaching confidence without arrogance.Love and Logic, Always“Lead with empathy. Decide with data. And know which one to use when.”Her golden rule for founders—and herself._______________________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Waverly Deutsch --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.20 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1% Podcast.Top 5 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>200,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.
Waverly Deutsch doesn't just coach entrepreneurs—she translates English to English, reframes stories with strategy, and helps even the most logic-trained professionals tap into their conviction. In this three-part series, we walk through her unusual path from consulting to Chicago Booth to founding WyseHeart, her pitch strategy firm.Each episode reveals a new dimension of her journey: the personal (Part 1), the academic and instructional (Part 2), and the entrepreneurial, including her bold take on how to co-exist with AI (Part 3). Across every chapter, Waverly models what it means to coach with both love and logic—bringing clear frameworks to messy human dreams.Key Highlights of Our Interview:From Book Smarts to Business Savvy“Entrepreneurship is a process—whether you're 20 or 50.”At Booth, Waverly coached a wildly diverse mix: undergrads with unchecked imagination, MBAs with ideas but risk aversion, and execs who played it too safe. Her role? Adjusting the dials between wild dreams and grounded strategy—always pushing people to think just a little bigger (or a little sharper).Love for the Logical Skeptics“If you, the entrepreneur, don't believe you're building a $50M company, why should the investor?”Her job wasn't to sugarcoat—it was to stretch minds. She shares how she helped overly rational MBAs move from “safe” ideas to bold, fundable visions—and overly optimistic young founders get real about execution. Her coaching mantra? Meet them where they are—and nudge from there.The Muffin That Grew a Billion Dollars“This could be the Betty Crocker of the 21st century.”A standout case: Simple Mills founder Caitlin Smith. What began as a gluten-free side hustle turned into a billion-dollar brand—thanks in part to Waverly's nudge to imagine bigger. It's a masterclass in how one coach reframed a story and sparked a scale-worthy vision.Coaching in the Wild“I'm an English-to-English translator.”Post-Booth, Waverly now works with a broader crowd: from seasoned pros to small business owners without MBAs. Her key lesson? Listen deeply, strip away jargon, and tailor advice to meet people where they are—because real coaching starts with trust, not templates.Can AI Be Your Coach? Nope.“If marriage is ‘til death do us part, investment is ‘til exit do us part.”Waverly doesn't see AI as competition—yet. A pitch deck might be AI-generated, but building investor trust, interpreting nuance, and navigating founder doubt? That's strictly human territory. Coaching is about relationships, not just logic—and for that, love still wins._______________________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Waverly Deutsch --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.20 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1% Podcast.Top 5 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>200,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.
Waverly Deutsch doesn't just coach entrepreneurs—she translates English to English, reframes stories with strategy, and helps even the most logic-trained professionals tap into their conviction. In this three-part series, we walk through her unusual path from consulting to Chicago Booth to founding WyseHeart, her pitch strategy firm.Each episode reveals a new dimension of her journey: the personal (Part 1), the academic and instructional (Part 2), and the entrepreneurial, including her bold take on how to co-exist with AI (Part 3). Across every chapter, Waverly models what it means to coach with both love and logic—bringing clear frameworks to messy human dreams.Key Highlights of Our Interview:The Computer Scientist Who Loved Shakespeare“I've always had a foot in both worlds—logic and emotion, code and creativity.”How Waverly's dual passions for computer science and theatre shaped her approach to business.The Pivot Into Entrepreneurship“I didn't want to write code anymore. I wanted to solve problems worth solving.”Why she left tech to help build a startup—and never looked back.Real Lessons, Not Just Case Studies“Harvard cases are great, but I wanted to teach with my own stories.”How she built her curriculum at Booth from lived experience.Founders Aren't Born“They're shaped by experience, community, and the right mindset.”What makes someone capable of starting—and sustaining—a business.Emotion Belongs in the Room“Business is about people. If you're not teaching that, you're missing the point.”Why she teaches soft skills just as seriously as finance and ops._______________________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Waverly Deutsch --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.20 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1% Podcast.Top 5 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>200,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.
In Part Two, Brian opens up about what it really cost him to tell the truth inside a political system built on avoidance. From surviving misinformation attacks to refusing to play nice for the sake of power, he reflects on the risks and responsibilities that come with using your platform when it might backfire. We also hear how he rebuilt after the storm—why starting over matters, and what he's doing differently this time around.Key Highlights of Our Interview:The Price of Authenticity“I didn't lose because I lacked support—I lost because I refused to lie.”What really happened during his run for lieutenant governor.Party Loyalty vs. Personal Truth“I wasn't going to smile and play along just to move up.”When doing the right thing means going against your own team.Retaliation Isn't Always Loud“It's the silence. The meetings you stop getting invited to.”How quiet resistance can be louder than shouting.Redefining Leadership“I don't want to lead the way they taught us. I want to lead in a way that reflects my truth.”Why he's rebuilding his leadership from the ground up.The Work Continues—But Differently“My goal now isn't to win office. It's to win trust.”From political power to public service, on his own terms._______________________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Brian Sims --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.20 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1% Podcast.Top 5 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>200,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.
In this episode of the Drop In CEO podcast Steve Harper discusses his journey in creating and fostering powerful, long-lasting relationships. Harper shares his insights into the importance of genuine connections in both personal and professional settings, the concept of the ripple effect in relationship-building, and his experiences that led to writing his book, 'The Ripple Effect: Maximizing the Power of Relationships for Your Life and Business.' Together, Deb and Steve discuss practical strategies for effectively engaging and maintaining relationships, emphasizing the value of continuous effort and authentic interactions. Episode Highlights: 06:02 The Importance of Building Authentic Relationships 08:08 Evaluating and Strengthening Your Network 20:11 Discovering Connection Points 20:50 The Power of Ripple Connection Questions 24:23 The Impact of Small Opportunities 28:02 Networking and Relationship Strategies Steve Harper is a serial entrepreneur, author, speaker, and business strategist known for unlocking the power of authentic connection. Over his 30-year career, he’s built a proven method for cultivating meaningful relationships that drive business success. As CEO of Owner Insite and Facility Insite, he’s woven his signature Ripple Effect philosophy into every aspect of leadership and client service. His book, events, courses, and podcast have sparked a global movement, inspiring individuals and organizations to build deeper, lasting connections. Through 8 Minute Ripple events and Ripple communities, Steve continues to challenge the way we connect—and why it matters. Connect with Steve Harper: Social Handle: @rippleton Company Website: ripplecentral.com For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of the Drop In CEO podcast Noam Sapiens discusses his journey from a young innovator to his current role, and how EyeQue Corporation is revolutionizing the vision care industry with their innovative technology that allows for home vision tests. The conversation covers Noam's career progression, experiences, and the impact of EyeQue's vision care solutions on society. They also touch on the importance of following one's passion and the challenges of implementing disruptive technologies in healthcare. Episode Highlights: 03:19 Challenges and Triumphs in the Tech Industry 08:59 Joining IQ Corporation: A Perfect Fit 17:15 Innovative Solutions for Vision Care 31:42 The Future of Eye Care Dr. Sapiens started his academic journey at the age of 14. He completed his PhD in Applied Physics from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem. He received multiple awards including the prestigious Eshkol Fellowship, The Romolo Deotto Prize, and the Intel Award for Innovation. Starting in the defense industry while serving the Israeli Defense Forces as an honorary lieutenant, he continued to open his first company, becoming a subject matter expert, serving on multiple ANSI committees. One of the projects he worked on was a system that won the Israeli Defense Award. As a research scientist at KLA-Tencor he introduced new technologies over five generations of metrology tools for the semiconductor industry. Served an integral part of the strategic planning team, steering budgets and resources to research projectswhich significantly contributed to the development of metrology tools. Previously serving as the CTO of another medical device company and being an engineering project manager at Apple also contributed to Dr. Sapiens’ technology innovation leadership.Noam is a father of 3 and enjoys skiing, reading, and innovating (he has an optic lab in his basement). Connect with Noam Sapiens: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noam-sapiens/ Company Website: www.eyeque.com For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
All July long, we're featuring a special replay series of standout episodes—and this week is no exception.Join us for a special episode as we welcome Christine Benz to discuss her book, "How to Retire." In a captivating conversation in the Rock Retirement Club, we dive into topics like long-term care, the 4% rule, investing strategies, and simplification. Featuring insights from Fritz Gilbert, a member of the club and contributor to Christine's book, this episode offers a holistic view of retirement planning. Discover how to balance financial and non-financial aspects for a fulfilling retirement journey.*Episode Originally Aired December 4, 2024*OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE OF RETIREMENT ANSWER MAN(00:55) We are going to play some past impactful episodes for the whole month of July INTERVIEW WITH CHRISTINE BENZ(01:28) Today we start off the month with a replay of our interview with Christine Benz.(03:17) Roger asks about the goal for the readers of this book.(04:48) Christine: The goal was to cover retirement in a really holistic way and include as much non-financial as financial information on retirement planning.(06:10) Roger thinks the interview style of the book helped make it more approachable.(08:13) Roger asks Christine about any big, unexpected insights that came up when she was writing her book.(11:12) Fritz Gilbert says I give Christine serious kudos for the approach she took and the amount of homework she did.(12:35) Christine tells Fritz that she loves his methodical approach to dealing with the years leading up to retirement.(14:16) Marla asks Christine if she would change anything if she was writing this book today to accommodate the 2024 election results and also asks about managing portfolios on Morningstar.(18:15) Roger says when it comes to portfolio construction, it's easy to overcomplicate things(21:14) Larry asks Christine what challenges her or confounds her most about her own retirement planning.(23:35) Larry asks “Are you concerned that we may not find people to provide long term care?”(31:08) Kevin Lyles asks Christine about asset allocation in retirement.(37:55) Laura asks: When talking about high quality bond portfolios, do bond funds work?(42:00) Roger asks about indexes and broad diversification. (44:37) Roger says someone had a comment related to some of the research on small cap value and asks Christine her view on having a more diversified small cap value tilt?(48:19) Eric asks “what is the argument for using TIPS (Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities) for retirees?” (51:28) Roger asks Fritz if he has been simplifying his portfolio or working more on optimization since retiring in 2018.(53:52) Roger says the optimization part of retirement sometimes dominates the conversation.(54:44) Roger asks Christine: Have you found in your own life a balance between making sure you don't get too complicated in investments?(57:55) Brianna asks Christine what question she has been reflecting on after the 20 interviews?(58:45) Christine she's been thinking more about whether the concept of retirement is flawed.BONUS(01:01:26) Roger reads an excerpt from his grandfather's WWII journalResources Mentioned In This EpisodeWade PfauMorningstar The Retirement Manifest- Fritz GilbertDaughterhood.orgChristine BenzSix Shot SaturdayBOOKSHow to Retire: 20 Lessons for a Happy, Successful, and Wealthy Retirement - Christine BenzBeing Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End - Atul GawandeKeys to a Successful Retirement: Staying Happy, Active, and Productive in Your Retired Years - Fritz GilbertRock Retirement: A Simple Guide to Help You Take Control and Be More Optimistic About the Future - Roger Whitney
In this episode of the Drop In CEO podcast Derek Fredrickson, founder of the COO Solution and former COO of Boldheart. Derek brings over 16 years of experience in operational strategy and scaling businesses. Deb and Derek discuss the importance of a strong operational framework for entrepreneurs looking to scale without burnout. Derek shares his journey from Wall Street to business coaching, highlighting critical issues like establishing trust, leveraging systems like EOS, and maintaining work-life boundaries when working with a spouse. Episode Highlights: 02:29 Derek's Journey from Wall Street to Entrepreneurship 04:53 Navigating Personal and Professional Boundaries 11:31 Scaling Businesses Without Burnout 16:29 The Role of Systems and Processes in Business Growth With over 16 years of experience scaling six- and seven-figure businesses—including serving as Chief Operating Officer at Boldheart—Derek Fredrickson knows how to turn operational overwhelm into strategic growth. As the founder of The COO Solution, Derek helps entrepreneurs break free from the daily grind by building the systems, processes, and structure needed to scale sustainably. Acting as a trusted second-in-command, he aligns teams, drives accountability, and ensures smooth execution—so business owners can focus on leading, innovating, and expanding their vision. Derek’s mission is simple: to make growth easier, more efficient, and far less stressful for purpose-driven leaders. Connect with Derek Fredrickson: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derekfredrickson/ Company Website: thecoosolution.com For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.